It Wasn't The Best Year, But At Least I Have Me

This year has been one hell of a roller coaster... I'm not angry, but I can admit that I am frustrated at times. 🤦🏻‍♀️ I'm sure many of us have felt that way when things didn’t go as planned and are now left to pick up the pieces. People and situations not only can disappoint you, but they can leave you, they can lie to you, they can betray you, they can even use you and you still manage to wake up every day hoping and praying that things will get better, in time. I think this year has truly taught me that people are fickle, plans change and life is so fragile. I had so many affirmations in place last year that I really believed would manifest into this year of 2020. I had so much hope for this year, yet instead I was left with the biggest lesson... You must be ready for the unexpected. Although it sucks, I'm holding onto the faith that what's meant to be for me, will always be FOR ME! Everything serves a purpose even when I cannot see it in the 3D, but I can feel it in the 5D (I can't even begin to tell you how loud my dreams and intuition have been this past year...) I'm overwhelmed with gratitude in the meantime and ready for that plot twist right about now, for He is a God of "suddenly!" Nah, scratch that this is no plot twist! It's MY time! 🙌🏽

If anyone needs to cry, scream, vent, take a nap, make yourself a cup of tea, journal your thoughts, listen to your favorite 80s-90s playlist and dance, then please do. Take this time for you! As I always like to say, never allow anyone or anything to steal your joy or your peace. 🙏🏽

I hope everyone stays safe and has a wonderful holiday in spite of these times! 

Sending all my love,

Sharon ❤

Here are some gentle reminders that resonated with my heart. Enjoy!

Runaway If You Want To Survive

Does anyone ever get that feeling, that inner knowing that something's coming? Like a huge change or shift is about to occur? You can't quite explain why, but deep down you just know? It's not even anything negative, but you just sense that something is about to happen. You may not know when or exactly how, but your instincts and dreams have picked up on the signs...

Fast forward to a week later... When I tell you that God sees and hears ALL things, believe it! If anyone would have told me that four years later, I would receive extra confirmation about a decision that I made, I might've looked at them like they're foolish. Honestly, it's not even about what I was informed of, but more of HOW it arrived on my lap. The Lord surely sends kind messengers from every corner. The truth will ALWAYS reveal itself! I don't wish ill-will on anyone, but you do not go about mistreating people and end up living a happy and peaceful life. As much I may feel bad as a human being with a heart, I'm also incredibly grateful to know that it could've easily been me! God saved me! He delivered me! He blocked itttttt! I didn't have all the answers those many years ago, but I appreciate the clarity now. And to think that I could've been alone, barefoot, pregnant (with Lord knows how many...) and near no family or friends in the middle of nowhere... Wooooo thank You Father! 🙌🏽

I pray that no woman ever has to deal with a selfish, insensitive, entitled, grown toddler/man-child for a husband/partner. But, I get that life happens and I've always said that if necessary, I would rather come home alive from a broken marriage than in a coffin. Periodt. Life is wayyyy too short to be dealing with such chaos. Of course, it may be easy for us on the outside looking in, but for those of us that have experienced abusive relationships and lived to tell the tale, my goodness... As 90's group "The Real McCoy" once sang: "Runaway, runaway, runaway and save your life! Runaway, run-away, runaway if you want to survive! It's time to break free!" Take care of you, Sis/Bro/Ya'll! 

I don't always discuss my experiences with narcissistic-sociopath abuse, but I'm here to be a voice and hopefully a beacon of hope for anyone that needs it. I'm far from perfect, but I know my worth and it took me a long time to get my glow back and I refuse to allow anyone to dim my sparkle. So, please take time to heal and release any wounds or toxic coping behaviors and generational wounds (that’s a topic for another day! 👀) Remember that no one can ever steal your joy, your peace or your loving heart. I'm a big believer in "whatever will be, will be" and that “what’s for you, will always be FOR YOU!” We just need to be open to receiving and to make room for the next chapter. I'm still learning, but I know that as cliché as it sounds, the best IS yet to come! My journey is far from over and I look forward to discovering what else is in store. ✍🏽

I hope everyone enjoys the remainder of the week! 

Nitey nite! 🌙

All my love,

Sharon 🖤

"Social Distancing" An Introvert's Bliss (or Hell)

Hey everyone!

I hope everyone is taking care of themselves and spending time with their loved ones (if possible) during this crazy time. I'm sure extroverts are kinda losing their minds out there, but as a self-proclaimed introvert, try to pause, slow down and look on the bright side of things. 👀

Think of all the things you can accomplish with this time of seclusion... When was the last time you took time for yourself? Have you tried a new recipe? Why not bake that dessert that you've been dying to try out thanks to endless baking tutorials on Youtube? 🍰 Grab that book that's been sitting on your desk for months. 📚 If you're feeling anxious or worried about x-y-and-z (hello, it's me!) perhaps text, call or Facetime someone important to you and vent or maybe grab one of your many journals and write to your heart's content! And if you must cry, let those tears fall and decorate your pages. 📝 Try to find a healthy outlet to release anything that's beyond your control or to simply just breathe. I'm sure that we could all use a rejuvenating nap. Sometimes, the best way to recharge is to not do, but be still. 😌

I'll admit that I'm scared at times... Scared of unexpected changes, scared that I may not say or do the right things, scared to open up my heart and be vulnerable, scared that I won't have enough time, scared that my hopes and dreams feel so far-fetched or nearly impossible and scared that maybe I'm just so focused on the future, that I end up running from my present self... 😔

I read something earlier today and noticed that it fit exactly not only how I’ve been feeling, but how my thought process has shifted as I’ve grown older: “Breaking out of old thought patterns and finding refreshing ways to express yourself are also things to aspire to... Of course, that means risking being wrong or saying something that not everyone will agree with. GIVE YOURSELF PERMISSION TO TAKE THAT RISK, even if it means making a strong impression that you’re worried will come across as too bold. Have courage to speak your mind and see things in a new light. GROWTH REQUIRES CHANGE.” Can I say that I felt attacked yet heard? 👀

Trust me, despite my calm demeanor, I'm a clam of worry. I worry about others, their tone of voice, their change in behavior, reading too deep into shit and ya girl manages to find a way to worry before there are even things TO worry about, so how do ya'll think I'm doing now?! I'm an acrobat at jumping to conclusions. 😧😩

But, all is well... I woke up this morning. I'm ingesting way too much tea and carbohydrates. I've managed to wash my hair with one hand (burned my left hand earlier this week, so please be careful in the kitchen guys!) and type up a fresh post. Baby steps... 🙌

Who knew that turning 28 would not only change how my mind and body operates, but also how much I've been self-reflecting?! Ya girl is tired. She's emotionally drained... 🍵

Anywho, feel free to leave me comments on your thoughts and how you guys are handling things during this hectic situation. Take care my darlings! Stay hydrated, get some well-deserved rest and take your Vitamin C!


With Love,
Sharon 🌙

Cheers to New Beginnings

Guys, it just hit me that the year is basically over... 👀

A few weeks ago, I even admitted to one of my girls that I cannot believe that it's "Christmas-time" and that it feels as if Summer just came and went... 👋 Anywhooo, so much has happened and I'm sure there's more to come in this new year of 2020. (It's kinda crazy to think about...) I'm actually really excited for a new decade, it almost feels like being given the opportunity to write and witness a new chapter. ✍

I recently got back into the habit of writing more and noticed that it's done a tremendous job at alleviating whatever has been weighing on my heart. I may not cry very often (I always joke about needing to schedule one in...) but, being able to find healthy ways to calm my mind and help me decompress works just as well. Art or other forms of creativity has always been my biggest vice, especially since childhood. You could find me in the corner drawing with jumbo crayons, shamelessly singing Celine Dion or the Spice Girls, dressing up in costumes/outdated clothes from yesteryear or daydreaming of being a Disney princess. 👸

I've realized that life really does have a way of surprising you and you can either accept that or change course. I may not always enjoy change, but I've learned that I'm able to adapt to what's occurring around me and thus, shifting my perspective to see the good and find the lesson. I'm far more capable than I realize which means that I'm stronger and resilient than I appear. I'm the type of person that will view a detour as a blessing in disguise. I'm a big believer in timing and all that's meant to be, will be. And no, I'm not saying to deny your emotions or avoid them. I'm all for embracing your emotions and taking time for yourself to relax, heal and refocus.  #selfcare 🍵

I want to open myself up to the possibilities! No more hiding behind my work, my hidden talents or that feeling of lack, unworthy of good things, as well as, hiding and shielding myself from "real love" out of fear of: failure, the unknown or another heartbreak. My heart has been through far more than I could have possibly imagined and it's insane to think that it can endure so much more... I always remind myself that I am not what has happened to me and that I, too, deserve a chance at happiness. I don't know what the future holds, but I do know that my time isn't up yet, so I'm ready for what magic is in store. ✨

May you all have an abundant and magical holiday! I pray that your new year will be prosperous and rewarding for your well-being.


With love,
Sharon 💕

My current BFF. ✍

       

Hello, it's me. 💖

I Learned The Truth At 17, Learning More Truth Entering 27...

Hello my darlings! I know that it's been ages since I've posted, so my sincerest apologies, but I figured it's time to get out of my head, pour out my heart/mind/soul and just start again... 😌

AND on that note... Guys, it's my 'Birthday Month!" 👸🏻 There are 3 days left until my birthday and I have quite mixed feelings about it... Am I nervous about transitioning into my late 20s? A bit. Am I scared? Not exactly. Am I a combination of anxious-rumbly-in-my-tumbly-excited and also, looking forward to what's ahead? Oh, absolutely! 👀😅

I recently had a discussion with one of my girls and we both acknowledged that within our close-circle, we've all been going through this trying season or going through a bit of a "funk". Like we're all trying to find our way with our goals, our dreams, our desires and our fickle plans. I know they say there's always time, but also the proverb that states: "Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring," comes to mind. The reality of the matter is, tomorrow really is not always promised. Think of all of the people that may have had plans for today, but did not make it... Think of those that may have wanted a different life for themselves, but the circumstances did not work in their favor. And that can happen due to an accident, peer pressure or by simply taking an alternative route... 💬

I think sometimes we may be hesitant to dwell in the present because the future seems so much more promising or sometimes we may want to drown in our present out of fear of the unknown, fear of what's to come... The fact that I've been a planner most of my life, it almost feels quite liberating in a way to release control over things that I cannot change. Practicing the concept of "letting go" is really difficult at times. I'm sure most of us would prefer everything done "our way" and on "our time-frame." But I guess that's the thing, huh? Life may not always be fair, but it sure finds a way of working out somehow. I do believe that everything has a purpose and that God does have a sense of humor. Most of us are just so wound up with our selfish, pity-parties that we sometimes fail to see it's all on His timing. I don't know about you, but I would much rather embrace the delays/the wait, if I know that God will never disappoint me the way I, other people or the world has. 🙏

Pardon the intense self reflection, but I needed to clear my mind and prepare for the new year. I must get ready for this next chapter in my life. I hope you all may find such peace. 💞

With Love,
Sharon 💖

A Sunday Kind of Love

Hey everyone!

I hope you all had a good week and enjoyed your weekend! I just made myself a nice, hot cup of English tea and decided it's about time to add a new post... ☕🙌

This past Wednesday evening, I attended my first makeup launch event for Sunday Riley. It was a wonderful experience and despite the crowd, everyone we encountered was so kind, bubbly and considerate. Primarily, it was for the launch of their foundation called, "The Influencer" | Clean, Long Wear Foundation. It's supposedly a "natural looking, long wear, lightweight feel, satin-matte finish and medium-to-full coverage" foundation and most, if not all of us, were able to get our hands on a variety of shades to suit each of us. Let me tell you that the process of knowing your shade was the easy part, but it was the getting a hold of the right foundation(s) that was a bit chaotic... I kid you not, but one of my best girlfriends and I, were astounded to see hoards of people by these boxes stocked with full-sized foundations and grabbing as many of their suitable shades as possible. We figure that guess it wouldn't hurt to grab our possible summer color too! Thankfully, I was able to grab a good enough amount for not only myself, but also to take for my mom. 💕

They had goodie bags as well, but those flew like hot cakes so I didn't get to grab one. Although, I was able to treat myself to a handful of skincare samples, such as: U.F.O.: Ultra-Clarifying Acne Treatment Face Oil, C.E.O.: 15% Vitamin C Rapid Flash Brightening Serum, Good Genes: All-In-One Lactic Acid Treatment, and Saturn: Sulfur Acne Treatment Mask, so all went well.

There were a number of fun inter-active things to do such as: a pink adult-sized slide (included with a landing bin filled with pink plastic balls,) a pink swing, a pink see-saw, a confetti booth, a walk-way with disco lights, a well-lit booth to take a quick 15-second video clip with a pro-videographer that you could then email to yourself, color-matching stations and of course, pretty-in-pink beverages! Did I also forget to mention that Sunday Riley seems to REALLY dig the color pink? 😍🍹📷👯💖

Overall, it was so incredible to see all of these young women (and men) with a passion for beauty, style and coming together in support of a brand that cares about their clients feedback. I look forward to trying out more of the brand's products, get to see what else they come up with next and perhaps attend even more events in the near future.

I'll include photos of the products I received, as well as, some of the what occurred at the event below.

Wishing you all a fabulous night and fan-tabulous new week! 💞

With Love,
Sharon 💋


P.S. please don't hesitate to leave me a comment below if you have any questions or suggestions for possible new content. Thanks so much! XO

The long line seemed quite intimidating, but we made it through... 👏

"Designed for you!" Loved that! 💝

"You mustn't be afraid to sparkle a little brighter, darling."

One of the "Color Match Stations" and got my match, Shade: 200.

"When I was a kid... no wait, I still do that." Yup, I had to take a turn on the pink, adult-sized slide. 😆

My Ride or Die, Mwenya. 💗

We got to write our IG handles on their massive, pink wall and include our shade number. 👌

My shades from natural to "summer tan" (left to right): 200, 210 and 220.

Shade 200: medium with honey-beige undertones.

Shade 210: medium with rich yellow undertones.

Shade 220: medium to tan with golden beige undertones. 

Ready for my close-up for sure! 💁

And lastly, skincare samples! (Listed from left to right.)

1) U.F.O. ultra-clarifying Acne Treatment Face Oil

2) C.E.O. 15% Vitamin C Rapid Flash Brightening Serum

3) Good Genes: All-In-One Lactic Acid Treatment

4) Saturn: Sulfur Acne Treatment Mask

Bonjour, Paris!

Pardon for the short hiatus!

I've been busy trying to come up with potential content and also getting details sorted out for my upcoming trip to Paris in May. FINALLY! 💃🏻 It's primarily for a family wedding, but I'll have plenty of time to explore during my stay. This will be my first solo trip overseas, so I'm definitely nervous yet excited. Thankfully, everyone that's aware has been very helpful with possible places for me to explore during my time there. Lastly, I plan to spend a weekend with one of my cousin's and his family that live in the South of France, so that's also something to look forward to! 🙌🏼

Thus, I've created an itinerary of "Places to See/Do In France" which I will share below:

Pink Architecture - Street in Montmarte, France

Street Magic

• Montmarte - Morning is best to avoid large crowds for the Afternoon/Evening, sunset
• Picnics - Pont des Artes, The Tuileries gardens near the Seine (and the Louvre or Lake in Vincennes)
• Latin quarter - See/Meet people in my age group
• Château de Versailles - May take half a day, so plan accordingly! 👑🏰
• The Lourve - Closed on Tuesdays!

South of France - La Provence 🌸

• Orange - See the Roman town with its Antique Theater 
• Mont Ventoux - Famous Cycle Tour & perhaps see the Lavender Fields!!!! 🚵🌷
• Avignon - Famous Bridge
• Nîmes - Arena, Canal of Nîmes
• Marseille - La Fontaine de Longchamps, Palais de Longchamp
• Cannes - Explore where they hold the "Festival International Du Film" and its incredible views
• L'Escale du Ciel, Côte d'Azur (French Riviera)

       

                                 Peonies At A Flower Market In Pezenas, France

Alpes-Maritimes, French Riviera & Villeneuve Les Avignon

I may add to the list, but that's what I have for now. I hope you all have a fabulous week and be sure to leave me a comment below on your thoughts or suggestions on what to share next. Thank you so much!

Bisous,

Shar 💋

February Anticipations

It's the day before Valentine's Day and I can already imagine the pending thoughts, anxieties, plans and emotions that most people may be feeling during this time... 😟😊😍😘

One thing that I appreciate about my current season is that I find myself less bitter and more grateful for everything. There's little to no pressure on "what to expect next", but rather more of embracing each day for what it is and every person that's walked in or out of my life. It may sound a bit cliche, but one of the most important commitments in life is to loving yourself. Yes, I've planned my future wedding down to the guest list and favors (I promise that I'm not neurotic, I just adore details and the concept of wedding planning,) BUT the older that I get the more I've realized that if I don't learn to be thankful or content with my present life, a wedding ain't gonna make much of a difference. 😌

Daily reminders:

• a delay can be a blessing in disguise
• it's never too late to start over 
• don't allow anything or anyone to consume your life, it should compliment it
• accept your past, embrace your emotions, but don't allow it to pollute your present or dictate your future
• be thankful that you're no longer the same person you were a year ago
• surround yourself with positive energy and people who support you during your rainy days and not just on your sunny ones 
• protect your space and those that you allow within it
• and be sure to take care of yourself, as well as, those around you 🙌🏼

Oh and has anyone else tried any of the latest Valentine's Day donuts from Dunkin Donuts? Aren't they the cutest? I also received my Lilly Lashes in the mail today and look forward to rockin' them for my birthday next Friday (or that weekend.) I'll include photos and links below. 😏

May you all have a fabulous Valentine's day whether you choose to: go out with friends, significant other or enjoy staying-in solo. 💘


With lots and lots of love,
Sharon 🍩

DUNKIN DONUTS

• 1 Medium Mocha Iced Latte w/ Extra Whip Cream
• 1 Lovestruck donut (pink frosting)
• 1 Brownie Batter Crumble donut (heart-shaped chocolate)

Lilly Lashes - Ghalichi GLAM

• 1 Limited Edition - Inspired by "Miami" Premium Synthetic Lashes - Lilly Lashes Premium Lashes | Miami

• 1 Clear Brush-On Lash Adhesive - Lilly Lashes | Lash Adhesive