BH to DTLA and those Flying Monkeys

I am a native Angeleno and single mother of two Flying Monkeys (Iza Pizza and Bellini Mussolini).

I grew up in neighboring Boyle Heights and have always had a soft spot for Downtown LA. Even in the years when you could only travel a few blocks without stumbling upon the Skid Row scene, the beauty of the Historic buildings bore down on you that you had to resuscitate this underused and ignored Downtown.

This blog began as an experiment to test my courage in sharing my stories with the world. These stories are meant to inspire the sadness away, to offer a hand when life gets dark and overwhelming and to provide me with a venue to lift the weight off my own chest and throw it off into the universe via words as light as feathers. I hope you enjoy what you read. Pain is everywhere in these stories but strength and happiness follow. Some of these stories might be hard for some of you to read but it’s important to know that they happen and for those who have been there, it’s especially important for you to know that It Gets Better.

Much Love,

@SusanaBenavidez

10 Responses to “BH to DTLA and those Flying Monkeys”

Chase November 29, 2012 at 2:10 PM #

Love what you’re about. Recently moved to Boyle Heights, myself, and appreciate hearing perspectives from those who were formed here. I admire your courage; keep writing.

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- Los Angeles December 3, 2012 at 10:07 AM #
  
  Welcome to BH, this neighborhood will always have a strong and prominent place in my heart. Glad that you are enjoying it!
  
  Susana
  
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Jorge Lopez November 30, 2012 at 1:19 AM #

Thank you for sharing, my students at Roosevelt High will appreciate reading your words.

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- Los Angeles December 3, 2012 at 10:06 AM #
  
  Mr. Lopez! How wonderful to find an old friend here
  
  - Susana
  
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Rene December 3, 2012 at 5:05 AM #

I enjoyed reading. Keep writing…
Rene

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- Los Angeles December 3, 2012 at 10:06 AM #
  
  Thank you for the encouragement!
  
  - Susana
  
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Carlos Diaz December 3, 2012 at 12:57 PM #

Hi Susana,

I’m an L.A. native. Grew up in Boyle Heights as well. I love your posts. Its nice to be reminded of home through your words.

You have a friend in Philadelphia!

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cdiaz86 December 3, 2012 at 12:58 PM #

Susana,

I love your posts and your style. Some of them remind me of experiences I have had or of things back home. I am an L.A. native (grew up in Boyle Heights too). Thank you for sharing.

You have a friend in Philadelphia!

–
Carlos

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nIcholas gomez May 5, 2011 at 9:51 PM #

Susie, I’m very proud to know you, yes especially because your family. It takes a lot of courage to share about your life in public. I know this because I spoke about my life publically a few times and wow talk about shaking at the knees but, there is a reward of growth in character. Look forward to reading more of your life experiences. Love, Tio Nicholas..

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