In 2009 I moved to Chicago from Miami. Ever since, the number one question most people ask me is “what were you thinking??” The question can come from anyone at any time of year, but it really picks up in the winter. It’s “what were you thinking” coupled with “what are you doing here?” and…
Reviews
An Elegant Stacking Upgrade for Rings Old and New, From Kay Jewelers
This post is sponsored by Kay Jewelers December is peak holiday season, the time for merriment and gifts. Turns out, this time of year is also a special time for love – according to my friends at Kay Jewelers, December’s holiday season is the most popular time for engagements. Which makes so much sense! It’s…
8 Gift Ideas for Introverts and Homebodies (Like Me)
Through the years I’ve done enough quizzes and read enough books to know that I’m more of an introvert than an extrovert. Most of these points apply to me. I can try to tap into my extrovert side for events and such, but my general way of being is introversion and I’ve made my peace…
My Picks — 8 gifts Under $25 from Cost Plus World Market
There are plenty of stores I barely remember visiting for the first time. But I will never forget the first time I stepped into a Cost Plus World Market. I was absolutely amazed by the range, the character, the quality of stuff they had for sale. Furniture with style! Cool home décor and kitchen goods!…
The BEST Kitchen Gifts — 11 Gifts That Should Last (At Least) A Decade
I’ve shared my top kitchen items a few times, and around this time of year I start thinking about sharing more of this kind of information. Why? Because right around now, I’m cooking so often and using so many of my favorite kitchen items! Also, I find that these are the kinds of helpful holiday…
Effortless Style Holy Grail – Leota Makes Stylish, Wrinkle-Free Dresses I Love
As with everything in life, my style has evolved over time. Now I am so much more discerning with my fabric choices. I know the general shape and cut of the clothes that look the most effortless on me. That’s what I’m looking for – effortless style. My main goal is comfort and ease. I want…
Laundry For Modern Living – How I Upgraded my Laundry Room with Grove Collaborative
This post is sponsored by Grove Collaborative Ever since I started doing my own laundry, it’s been a big heavy pain. Literally. When I didn’t have my own washer and dryer, it was a question of lugging my heavy, full laundry basket and laundry detergent down to the laundry room or to the laundromat. Now…
New Orleans Gets the Spotlight For Professional Black Girl Season Two
Dr. Yaba Blay is a woman I admire on several levels. You know the kind of woman who achieves all the things, inspires others, somehow keeps multiple plates spinning and looks gorgeous and undeniably cool while doing it all? She’s THAT kind of Professional Black Girl. Just by way of introduction, Dr. Yaba Blay is…
Finding My Ferocity – Why Animal Prints are My Neutral
I love a good animal print. Snakeskin, giraffe, zebra, cheetah and leopard — I love them all, bring them on! For me animal prints aren’t a trend that vacillates with seasons — they’re simply classic. Leopard especially has long been a favorite for me, a wardrobe staple that I consider one of my neutrals. I…
Children’s Books Are The Future — What Is Light? Author Markette Shepperd on Inspiring Black Kids
Children’s books are such a fascinating area of Black literature right now. So many new books, new authors, new opportunities – it’s beautiful to behold and so inspiring! After years where there was a dearth of reading material intentionally by and for black boys and girls, we’ve come into a beautiful time of inclusivity, diversity…