A Year Later, Just Me

Morning Folks!
So today marks a year. I am surely amazed at how time flies. I am delighted to say that I have gotten through this year without harming anyone. I made it my business to be bigger and better.
I Thank God I didn't settle for less.  I am stronger. After feeling dumb and falling for the okie doke, the rude awakening of not being in a long term relationship isn't as disappointing. See, Carly had to realize that she was holding on to something that wasn't for her... had to realize that she enjoyed falling in love with the idea of the person he could be.  Yea it's disheartening that he didn't and wasn't the man she knew and hoped he would be. Nevertheless, everything happens for a reason.
Now it's still mind- boggling, but I strive to rise above trying to answer why. I strive to not let the pain creep and the angry seep. I rise! (In my Maya Angelou voice)
Thinking of today, my sister is celebrating her 2yr anniversary with her love. (Congratulations Janee' and Josh!!) This keeps me uplifted and lets me know that relationships can be made and love isn't lost. Taking it 1 step deeper,  just waking up is a friendly reminder that God is love and with Him in my heart, there is nothing greater!!!!
Saying bye baby... bye to those 11 years. Lesson learned.

December, I Remember...

Time surely flies. It's already December. My brother, nieces and nephews are growing before my eyes. I have a new niece. For the past few days, the weather reminded me of warmer Spring days.  I remember when December brought snowy, windy weather. I digress.
Reflecting on this year, I realize it has been trying, a year of adjusting; a year where I have been put to the test. I look forward to striving to better myself. December, I remember (just last year)  feeling blue, uncertain, torn, and confused. Now, I feel stronger and ready to break out!!!

The Journey

Greetings!
I hate that I haven't posted in a while. Nevertheless, I'm happy to play catch up. So, the newest addition to my family is my niece Journey Simone'! I am happy to say that I witnessed her birth. Her mother and father are blessed.
Now that she is two weeks old, it's interesting to watch her play sleep, hear her cry. I've  even had the pleasure of having her pee on my leg (lol). I love her though. Looking forward to watching her grow up.
Love my piglet! Welcome Journey Simone'!!!!

4 More!

Hey all!!!
So Obama is in office for four more years! :) I am proud to say I voted for this ambitious man!
I'm glad that he will be able to finish what he started. (God willing) I hope that he will be able to achieve all of the goals he has in motion for our nation.

I encourage everyone to work hard and complain less! Going Forward with Obama!

Jesse Boykins III StyleLikeU Interview

Jesse Boykins III Closet Interview for StyleLikeU from StyleLikeU on Vimeo.

My boo and I

I couldn't be more happier to find this link. I am a die hard Jesse Boykins III fan. I STAN for him and even swoon for him. He is such a breath of fresh air. He doesn't care about what people think of him and that's why I respect his artistry. Behind the hobo chic is a man of melodic tones that keeps me coming back for more. Watch Jesse as he reveals a little about his influences and how he got started. Enjoy!!!

Weekend Lover!

Good morning everyone!
Lemme just say that this past weekend set the tone for the week!
I was able to bring in my girl's birthday in NYC! (Nicole, I know u enjoyed urself and can better appreciate being a year older)
Chimi, Coley and I left for NYC Friday. Upon getting there, we found ourselves shopping in the city that never sleeps (where I found all the goodies I wanted). Saturday was great fun, because our CT girls KyWilli and Jackie came down. We thoroughly enjoyed a day party in Brooklyn, which was chill and a spectacle in and of itself. Of course we have to eat good food while in NYC. Hence, we enjoyed dinner at BBQ's (1 of my favorite places in NYC).
Sunday, Coley, Ky, Chimi and I had a blast. We enjoyed brunch in the Village thoroughly (unlimited cocktails for an hour,  and good food and convo). It was to the point that I was following a pigeon down the street. Lol
We had laughs for days!
It wouldn't be fun if there was no spontaneous events going down! We stopped at an interesting spot for fun. So we had some pain and pleasure (ladies, how u doin!) for a damned good price!
We enjoyed dinner at Blockheads (tacos are one of my faves). I didn't enjoy speedwalking to that bus stop though. This weekend was epic fun! Prayers were there, food, love, comedy, shopping... everything was great! :)
I want more fun weekends!

A True Love Story

I cannot help but to get a little teary-eyed seeing this video. Most people know I am kind of a grinch when it comes to love and I guess it comes from being a product of my environment (Hi, Dad!!!). Nevertheless this is an interesting story similar to mine. I just want to know where are they now? How did their relationship pan out?

Distance seemed like a struggle at first but the time they put in their relationship (via Skype, Facetime or what have you) created such a joyous first greeting. I wonder what happens when time is lost? People are busy but there should never be a time when a counterpart feels that they can be without you because of lack of time or the constant not following through on their words. Time(including money and sex) is one factor that leads to break ups #truestory. If you don't have time for one another maybe there needs to be time apart or some scheduling put in place #imjustsaying. Chime in and tell me your thoughts...

A new me!!!!

Recently I couldn't help but notice that I am embarking on a new journey. As the new school year approaches, I will be with a different team. My new team shares the same beliefs as the old but for some reason this seems RIGHT!! My principal had made this analogy about a school feeling like it's right. I don't know about you guys but once that women's intuition hits that's all she wrote. So needless to say my 6th sense is working for the greater good.

After cut #front

Recently I had a lot of time to ponder and figure out what is going well and what needs some work. Since I've left my old situation (job) I couldn't help but be reflective and think about the true and real me. I'm finding that I'm a work in progress and though I may not have all the answers, a higher power is working on me. Usually when I have epiphanies as such I do something drastic. Cutting my hair is the and all be all to take care of my stresses and tresses. So last week, I decided to go to Aveda Institute and get a hair cut. I didn't want anything too drastic but decided on an asymmetrical bob. Recently I have gained such inspiration from Antoinette from Around the Way Curls that I decided to get my hair healthy again. Last week I had crunchy ends and to add to my arsenal of trying to get my hair healthy, was the fact that my edges are thinning. That in itself has forced me to change from being able to have a pineapple and high bun (signature do's) to being a little more into wash and gos.

After cut #back

So to make a long story short, I get to Aveda expecting one of the natural sistas to do my hair and when my name is called a young white girl shakes my hand. Needless to say I was biased right away. A white girl doing my hair? What the hell does she know? and to add fuel to the fire all the black girls in the salon were staring at her do my hair. In the shampoo room we had some words but after that I went mum. I watched her every move. I saw how she straightened my hair and used her sheers to cut my straight hair. After she finished I could not see the full hairstyle because she hadn't straightened my hair completely. Thank goodness for her coach that came over and taught her in the moment how to straighten my hair. When the coach was done, I looked brand new and shiny. Lol. And the cost of my experience was a wonderful $30. Yes lawd. Thank ya. He knows its a recession. Lol #imjustsaying.

So needless to say I had my doubts about my white stylist, but she was legit. So in September I have another hair appointment with her.


After two strand twist out

After full head two strand twists

Natural Curl Pattern

Wonderful Weekend

Greetings All!
I just had to take some time out to talk about this weekend! It was too fun!

I hung out with the fam, goin swimming and to the splash park!
Then, I got the chance to chill wit my homies (my 1st roomie) Ky'Osha (Happy Birthday), Kia, Nicole, Chimi, and Teixeira.
We enjoyed Friday night at Rendezvous Palace and ate at The Diner. Saturday, we had fun at a rooftop party at Ozio's. We got dinner and chilled at Ben's Next Door.
This weekend made me very happy (my new theme song is Welcome to The Party Life)! I certainly felt like I was reliving my college days/nites! I must do more fun things during my down time!
This weekend is epic! :) :) :)

25 Years... Still Here!

Good Morning Folks!
I recently celebrated my 25th birthday (May 29th). As I reflect on it, I must say it was fun. I thought I would feel somber, having turned another year OLDER. However, I was moreso blessed to see another year!
I enjoyed the laughs, the heat, the rain (a little), the food, the friends, the love, the joy, and even the temporary anger.
Thanks to everyone for the well wishes and the birthday love!

Memorial Day Brings Memories

Good morning all!
As I think about today, I am reminded of people who no longer walk this earth. I am reminded of their struggles, their life, their fight to better themselves and their families. More importantly, I am reminded of the bravery, courage, and love that war vets have shown this country.
Today, we should be celebrating the lives of those who are always with us in our hearts. As we partake in numerous cookout delicacies, always be mindful that this day is to capture the memories of our loved ones, thereby keeping their legacy strong!

Happy Memorial Day!

Birthday Wishes

So this week, I am acknowledging my brother Dwayne's Birthday as well as my sister Jamilla's birthdays! The oldheads turn 1 year older (Lord knows how old they are, Lol)!
Wishing them Happiness, excitement, and many more wonderful days to come! Happy Birthday! Luv ya Bunches!

Commuter's Breakfast!

Good Morning Beautiful People!
For today, I have a Chobani Peach Greek Yogurt (my new fave), a croissant and water. I am keeping up with my commuter's challenge!

It's May!

Hey folks!
So it has reached my month! Its 28 days before my birthday! I am so looking forward to just being in the presence of family and good friends. I am excited despite the fact that I am not getting any younger. Nevertheless, I am ready for the remainder of spring to blossom and summer to show up and show out!
Just a thought!

Commuter's Food

Good morning! Running errands before work leaves little prep time for breakfast. So I'm eating yogurt and drinking water.

Happy Tuesday!

Commuter's Challenge

Good morning!
For breakfast today, I am enjoying Celestial Tension Tamer Tea and a couple of Madelines. Getting my day started right!

Commuter's Breakfast

Good morning!
For breakfast today, I had two (travel size) Bob Evans sausage biscuits and a CapriSun Sunrise Berry Tangerine Morning  juice.
I hope everyone is having a great week thus far! :)
*Take charge of your day!!

Commuter's Challenge Continues

Good afternoon people!
Keeping up with my Commuter's Challenge, today I enjoyed a cinnamon roll with Tension Tamer tea. I hope everyone has a good day! :)

Wonderful Weekend

Hey All!
I hope everyone enjoyed Easter! I had an awesome time with the fam.
Additionally, I just wanted to wish my friends and loved ones a happy Birthday! So Happy Bday to De'Jah, Markell (Hunnydip), Chimi, Claudia my grandmama, my aunt, Jackie, Braunilyn, and Kathryn! I hope everyone enjoys (or enjoyed) their special day!

Tuesday's Turnout

Good morning!
No snack for my commuter's breakfast (just a lone cup of hot tea). I am still sleepy, thanks to Chimi and I going out to Liv. We initially went to see J*Davey. However, there were open mic performances that lasted past my bedtime. Needless to say, we didn't stick around for the complete feature.
Last night was interesting. While  more bang for your buck was in effect, I couldn't truly enjoy myself because it was Tuesday, and this morning I feel angry, sleepy and not happy about being out as late as we were. (Sighhhhh) At the same time, it was good to get out, see live performances, and attempt to hang.

Blueberry Yum Yum!

Good morning!
For today's Commuter's Challenge, I am shaking off the groggy, sleepiness with Tension Tamer Celestial Tea and a blueberry muffin (my newfound faves)! I am prepared to start my day right! I wish everyone a great Monday!

Stand Up!

Good Sunday Morning!
Clad in my black hoodie, today I am remembering a young man who lost his life. Today, I am wearing this hoodie not only to protect me from the breeze and drizzle, but to symbolize my condolences for a young man who is no longer on this earth because of a senseless act. Remembering Trayvon Martin and hoping that we can come together as people with rights to stand up against cruelty and injustice!

Stirring up Saturday!

Good Morning Folks!
I am a bit grouchy, but I wanted to keep up with my Commuter's Challenge. I sliced up 2 pears and have them as my on-the-go-breakfast! Its supposed to rain (not my favorite weather) so I'm tryna lighten up my mood. I hope it won't be too bad (hopefully it'll clear up by the time I get off).
Working on Saturdays isn't the norm for me, so I gotta do somethin extra to boost my mood, making myself wanna get up and go to this job (Lawwwdd)! Nevertheless, I wish everyone a happy Saturday!

Springing Forward

Good Morning people! Its Spring! I'm excited about it because Spring is bright! Although it rains a lot, sunshine also comes along with beautiful flowers, and just wonderful days of wearing bright, light clothes!
It just seems like a season where people are carefree, appearing more chipper than usual, and there is the oncoming of summer to look forward too.
I was sad that I couldn't get free Ritas on the first day of spring-- until I saw the endless lines at both of the locations nearest my home. Nevertheless, I am happy that its spring.
For this season, I hope to spring forward. I want to hang out more, wear the brightest colors I can find (with hopes to shed my black, grey wardrobe if for just this season), and just spring into action with confronting and bettering the things about me that I feel may not be up to par. I want to start working out (hopefully Chimi will join me in my efforts) and just do something different and change things, with hopes that it'll all be for the better. Wish me luck! I encourage everyone to spring forward, have fun, change for the better, be better, and do better! Happy Spring Folks!

Commuter's Challenge!

Good Morning folks!
Today, for my commuter's challenge, I have strawberry banana yogurt, fuji apple slices and Fuze juice! I am definitely trying to take charge of my day (Although I WAS grumpy when that alarm clock went off at 7am!)

Commuter's Challenge! :)

Goood Morning All!
For today's commuter challenge, I have packed yogurt and water! Simplicity at its best. Although, I am looking forward to lunch (Chimi made dinner last nite, but I was too tired to eat it)! It's a beautiful pre-Spring day! Take Charge and enjoy it everyone!

Commuter's Challenge

Good Mornin All! Happy Friday!
So on my rush to work this morning, Thank God I prepared my Commuter's Breakfast last nite. Its still simple, but this mornin I probably wouldn't have time to put it together! Last nite, I sliced up some oranges and bagged them up. No coffee or tea this morning, but I did pack water (which I need to drink more of). I didn't have time to take pix, but I am still trying to keep it going! Everyone have a productive day and fun weekend!

Commuter's Challenge!

Greetings all! So today I am trying to make the effort with my Commuter's Challenge. I am on my way out and right before leaving, I just grabbed a pear, sliced and bagged it up. I also quickly brewed some coffee (as I continued getting dressed) ! This only took about 5 minutes to put together! I hope my initiative is repeated by others! It's gonna be another sunny day and I want my attitude to be just as bright and vibrant! Everyone enjoy their day!

Rise and Shine!

Good Morning All!
Today is a chilly day. It is definitely feeling like winter for once. Welp, as I am commuting to a newfound job that has been requiring me to work different and random shifts, I was pondering ways to better my commute. I am nobody's perfect morning person, so the best way for me to get the day goin (and me pepped up) is by having a great breakfast. However, it seems a bit hard to do.
Today, I am challenging myself to get my days started right. I want to be less aggravated. I figure starting to prepare some form of breakfast would do me justice. The challenge for this month: Commuter's Champion Breakfast!
The idea is to create small portions of on-the-go-food that will wake me, satisfy me, and have me ready to start my day!
Food Ideas: Orange slices, apple slices, bagel, portable portion of hot cereal (cream of wheat, oatmeal), banana, grapes.
Drink Ideas: 8 oz Fruit juices, Hot Tea, Water, Coffee
I will give updates on my challenge as it progresses! I hope I have some commuters that wanna try this challenge with me! :)

Wedding Day

Congratulations are in order! My oldest Sis is now a married woman! Yay Jamilla!

Street Etiquette's Satorial Sounds

I know I'm extremely late posting this (it came out so LOOOOOONNNNNG ago) but wanted to share it for those who have not seen it. I always find inspiration in the little things and one of them happens to be young people doing their thang and perfecting their craft. I want to be like them when I grow up.

Don't Call It a Comeback!

Hey people!
As I have a lot of free time on my hands, I have been able to get new info and be entertained. Thanks to SoulBounce, I discovered a gentleman I have been waiting to see on the scene again! D'Angelo gets love from Chimi and I. When he appeared on that stage and presented his talents, I was instantly reminded of the Untitled video! (Fanning myself as I type!)
This mixtape shows that D'Angelo still has what it takes to make the people giddy, excited, and inspired! (I am proud to be in the number!)

This D'Angelo Mixtape Is All The Way 'Live' » SOULBOUNCE.COM

NABJ induction

Hey people!
So today I had the honor & privilege of attending the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) induction ceremony. Lemme just say that I enjoyed myself. Seeing these educated people ( all of whom I am familiar with from seeing them on TV or hearing of the literary contributions) give special and influential advice, well-wishes, and support for my generation was amazing! I also got the chance to network, which I am still shy about.
This event was worth my time, in that it uplifted me to get my professionalism up to par, to get my courage up, and to believe more in myself, even if others would rather I fail. It was also interesting to hear of someone else's life stories and hurdles and how they overcame the hard times. It gave me a sense of hope. Moreover, as a Black woman, I am now proud to know that the 3 black female journalists being inducted (and Maureen Bunyan, the moderator) paved the way so that I can be the best I can be (in any goal I set). This opportunity was an eye opener-- a welcomed one for sure.

Remembering Them

Hey people!
As most of us sit home in observance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday, we should remember this man. He was an advocate for love, justice and peace in our communities (all of which are still needed). Chimi and Carly just wanted to dedicate this post to Dr. King. His legacy is one that we admire and would want to leave for our future generation(s).

* We also want to remember Aaliyah. We are fans of her music and hope that she continues to rest in peace.

Funny Times

Greetings ppl!
I was havin tons of fun this past weekend and just thought I would share. Friday night was fun. Chimi and I helped her baby sister celebrate her birthday! We went to Marvin's on U Street, which was nice. Every place after seemed to be experiencing physical altercations and whatnot. Lemme tell u... u woulda thought it was Chimi's birthday. From steppin wit a Zumba-esque troupe at Alero's to havin laughing fits, Chimi was havin herself a good time (and so was I). Needless to say, we had a fun nite/early mornin.
Saturday, I hung out with my two sistas. We went to this place called Flip It, which had soome bomb food. After, we went to do some vintage shoppin. I couldn't seem to find anything for myself, but I enjoyed looking in there. Later that evening, we went to The Cheesecake Factory to celebrate my cousin's birthday. Lemme just say I got stuck at the bar and didn't make my way back upstairs until checks were being delivered. However, me and my lil sis was chillin and enjoying the time to unwind.
I ended my weekend with church and a catnap before going to visit mi momma. I sat around laughing amongst family about how her Steelers lost. She did not enjoy that. I still cannot believe she said "Tebow these nuts!" That lady is funny. So my weekend was filled with some funny times. Ready to see what the next weekend has in store!

Happy New Year!

Hey all!
Bringing in 2012 has been amazin! I am trying to do what is right for me (as I hope all of you are attempting this year as well). I want new and exciting changes for the better in my life this year. The first decision I made this year will bring forth what I hope and pray to be an fruitful future. With that said, I wish everyone a wonderful, prosperous, orderly New Year!