Here it is, the post I’ve contemplated a thousand times. The thing I have to share that I haven’t wanted to type or say aloud. I have cancer. I have multiple myeloma. Here’s my story, in summary. I was diagnosed in January, but my symptoms first really appeared in October 2023, when hitting a pothole…
A Tribute to Chef Julius Russell
By afrobella
I lost a friend at the end of March and I would like to pay an overdue tribute to him here on Afrobella. I featured him and his recipes so often in this space. He showed up for me time and time again. I want to pay homage to Chef Julius Russell as the man…
Dinner in the Sky – An Unforgettable Chicago Experience
By afrobella
When you’ve lived somewhere long enough, it can be easy to take things for granted. For example, here’s a slightly embarrassing confession – I’ve lived in Chicago since 2009 and I didn’t make it to the top of Willis Tower until this year. 2023. I know! It’s ridiculous. I’d been to the top of the…
Raphael Saadiq and Tony! Toni! Toné! Reunited and On the Road!
By afrobella
Raphael Saadiq and Tony! Toni! Toné! are back together and on the road. And from the reviews, this tour is a must-see experience!
Helpful House Hunting Checklist: Top Tips from a Zillow Premier Agent for Finding Your Dream Home
By afrobella
This is the second post in a three-part series about my personal home search efforts, sponsored by Zillow. After years of condos and a history of life in townhouses, the idea of moving into an actual factual single-family home is appealing but also daunting. Like, I can’t wait to decorate but at the same time…
All About Mielle Organics’ Cooling Avocado and Tamanu Anti-Frizz System
By afrobella
This post was sponsored by Mielle Organics. In beauty and haircare, innovation is the name of the game. Top brands are continuously exploring new ways to include buzzworthy ingredients. If customers are searching online for new ways to increase their hair length, strength, moisture, or shine, there’s a brand looking to deliver the goods on…
Looking For Our Next Home with Zillow
By afrobella
This is the first post in a series on my personal home search efforts, sponsored by Zillow. If we have had casual in-person conversation within the past few years, it’s likely that I have mentioned something about moving. Don’t get me wrong, condo life has been wonderful, and we love our neighbors and our neighborhood…
What I Now Know About Grief (From Personal Experiences)
By afrobella
I have lost so many people I cared about in the last few years. Too many. Close relatives, distant relatives, friends made in Miami, Trinidad, and Chicago. People who knew me as a little girl, people I worked with in later years, people who made a difference to my life. People I loved. People I…
Chicago Spa Review: My Luxurious Experience at Tricoci Spa
By afrobella
A detailed review of Tricoci – the Michigan Avenue salon and spa that’s been beloved in Chicago for 40 years and counting.
How Improving My Home Office Ended My Afternoon Energy Slump
By afrobella
I’ve been working from home for myself since 2009 and it’s been an ongoing lesson in self-discipline and personal management, for real. You need knowledge of self to keep on this erratic entrepreneurial path for the long haul, and I have a full understanding of my habits, good and bad. I’ve come to realize the…