Hi, my name is Bella. You may know of me, but do you really know me? I am an 8th grader at MBMS. I live in Manhattan Beach with my Mom, Dad, three younger brothers, and thirty-nine guinea pigs. They all have names and live in their own village in our garage. My Dad does not like them, but I love them. We also have a dog named Bruno, but we don’t get along. One thing that is cool about me is that I have Down Syndrome. Down Syndrome makes me unique and awesome. I can express myself in any way I want. I like what I like and I am not afraid to tell you. I like to shave my head, wear cool t-shirts, and love painting my nails different colors. I love making and watching Tik Tok videos. I have a good group of friends and teachers that I like. They help me feel confident. I am outgoing and honest when I trust you.

Things aren’t always easy for me. I can take care of myself, but sometimes it’s hard for me to do things. I get frustrated, but I keep going because I am independent and strong. When I get tense, I take deep breaths and listen to music. I have a hard time meeting new people and making friends. I feel uncomfortable and nervous around people. At lunch and nutrition, I would like to talk to more people. Sometimes I feel alone and wish I could be part of the group. I have a hard time starting conversations. I feel nervous because I don’t know what to say. I don’t want people to laugh at me. Sometimes I wish it was easy for me to say hi or even have someone understand how I feel. I am funny, sassy and I never lie. I could be a really good friend if I got more chances.

I hate distance learning. I miss going to MBMS every day. I am trying to stay focused, but it’s hard to be in Zoom classes all day. My favorite subject in school is History. I think it’s really interesting. I like to learn about cool stuff. My least favorite subject is APE (Adaptive P.E. Ed). It is my last class of the day this year and I am so tired by the end of the day. Coach Emily really makes me work out hard and I do not like it. I make an effort when things are hard for me, but I have to feel motivated.

I know that I am going to have to work hard to help reach my goals. After college, I want to work at Starbucks. I think making all the drinks would be fun. My favorite drink is the Dragonfruit Mango refresher. I love to go with my Dad on the weekends. I think working there would be cool. I am going to need to practice talking to people, following a schedule, and working with money. I think I will be scared at first so practicing would really help me. I love to cook too. I am learning how to cook. I like my food to taste good. I also want to be healthy. Sometimes healthy food doesn’t taste good, but it’s good for you. I don’t like that. I want my food to taste good and be healthy. I am learning new recipes. I also am trying to come up with new drinks and food for Starbucks. I know everybody will love it!!!!!

I am excited to share my perspective and the perspective of others in this monthly blog. Every person has a story to share and an opportunity to be part of this community. Maybe we can start looking at each other’s strengths instead of focusing on our differences. We might just have more in common than we think.