It's The Most Wonderful Time of the Year... Wedding Season is Here!

“When things are so rough in the world, the intimacy [of a wedding] and this simple belief in building a tiny little nucleus with someone else.… That’s beautiful. It’s what I count on. We’re living through a crazy moment, so let’s just go back to the things that feel real, to people professing love to one another.” -Susan Winget, Marshmallow cofounder. 💖

Ahh, wedding season! Dare I say, my absolute favorite time of the year! 😍 I envision it as the one day in your life that you expect to go smoothly, but then life happens... I'm sure the pandemic has affected many of us with plans to get hitched this past year. Some had to postpone their big day, cancel it altogether or instead, downsize their guest list significantly and have a more intimate yet equally as beautiful, micro-wedding. I swear the concept of having an elopement sounds more and more appealing each day... Whatever you choose, there's still an element of stress regarding how to create your "ideal day." The one day that you'll remember for the rest of your life. Thankfully, it's nice to have the option of having a photographer and/or videographer present, if that's the route you and your partner decide on. It's a great way to make the most out of the experience, in which not only will you have photos and keepsakes for life, but that person could also serve as your witness. Win-win! 🙌🏽

Speaking of elopements... How do y'all feel about that idea? 👀 There's something so intriguing about eloping because to me, it's literally doing away with the opinions and social concepts of others and making the day strictly about the two of you and your love. I always joke around with my mom and ask how would she feel if I decided to elope? She would respond with: "That's okay as long as I can be a witness." Haha! 🤣

I think the only things stopping me from the idea of an elopement is the fact that one: some say you can always have a small or big celebration with your loved ones later on, but my thing is, I would prefer to do it all ONCE! The way my social battery is set up, I cannot be having two or three events at a time. And second, I struggle with the thought of not having my loved ones present. Lord knows that I don't want the entire motley crew there, but just the nearest and dearest to share that joyous moment with us. Then again, even if I don't decide to elope, I keep telling my mom that this is the perfect time to have an intimate wedding because hello, we're still in a pandemonium! Nobody has the right to get offended if they're not invited. I don't take those types of things personally anyway, so DO YOU BOO BOO! 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

Anywho, we shall see how my love life turns out with all its plot twists and turns... Which reminds me that I need to get on with my "tell-all" novel already! The tea is scorching... Haha! 🍵

And with all that being said... Here are a few of my favorite bridal gowns, engagement rings that are a lovely and cost efficient alternative to diamonds, as well as, some of the biggest wedding trends to look out for in 2021. 

Also, feel free to leave a comment and let me know what wedding trends you’re interested in below! 

Enjoy!

With Love,

Sharon R. 💖

February - Chapter 2 of 12 | The Month For Love

Helloooo February! It's officially my birthday month, guys! I've also been coming to terms with the fact that this will officially be my last year in my 20s... Who knew?! 👀 

I hope everyone has been well, staying warm during this snow storm we're currently dealing with on the East Coast. Praying you're all taking it day by day, so far. Does anyone have plans for Valentine's Day this month? I'm sure majority of us will keep it low-key and I love how the holiday isn't strictly for couples/romantic love, but also to show appreciation for platonic friendships. Our chosen family. I look forward to seeing posts about the outfits, whether it's more loungewear and cozy or dressy and extra AF, the food and sweet treats, the festive decorations to the thoughtful gifts to/from our nearest and dearest. 💕

This month is a bit different for me since I'm back to being single as a pringle, so although I'm grateful for last year's celebration coupled-up, I'm really looking forward to spending it in a lovely cottage with my girl tribe. Remember to cherish and make time for your friendships. You don't need an entire arena of them, but a handful of soulmates is what makes life a bit more bearable. I'm grateful that I don't need to talk or see them every single day, but once we all reunite, it's like no time has passed. I appreciate understanding, effortless and drama-free relationships. (Trust me, it's an introverts dream! We need our space!) 🙏🏽

Anywho, I wasn't planning to write today, but I'm glad that I did to clear out my mind and remind myself that I do have much to be thankful for and so much to look forward to. The birthday year of 29 is about to be EPIC! 💣

Have a great night, my darlings! 😘

With love,

Sharon 🖤

🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤

The Heart & Mind Knows...

I've known for a long time how good my intuition was, but it has been even more prevalent as I've grown older. Some things are more obvious and some require more time, so I need to pay close attention. Then, there are times when I will dream about something and it's either symbolic of what's to come or it's a prediction/confirmation of what's currently happening. So, it's like the saying: "You just know things before you know." 

Truth, it's one of those words that can either be beneficial towards a situation or detrimental to one's emotions. Regardless, the truth is necessary. There have been many instances where deep down I already knew the truth, but hearing it spoken out-loud makes it that more solid. Regarding matters of heart, that's when shit gets real... And I've learned that you must find a way to accept what is, whether or not you receive the answers or closure you deserve. You must find that peace within yourself, so that no matter what happens, you can forgive for your sake and move forward. 

I've been very fortunate to have people in my life that were honest and had the heart to tell me the truth and were up-front. I'm grateful for the lessons, experiences and memories that I will hold close to my heart. As I've mentioned in my last post, this year may not have gone how I expected it to, but it has truly brought me a new-found perspective that I can and will continue to get through what life throws at me. There's still SO much to discover and I look forward to what the end of this year has, as well as, what 2021 has instore for me. 

I'm so grateful to God to have hope, strength and resilience to keep going even when it gets tough. This year has been a constant reminder to fully release, trust and allow Him to work. "Let go and LET GOD!" 🙏🏽

I hope everyone stays safe and has a fabulous week!

With love,

Sharon ♥️

     Here are a few encouraging thoughts that I'd like to share from kind souls that speak to my heart:

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 🖤

Speak

Hey everyone! 

I hope everyone’s safe and taking care of one another! Please don’t forget to take care of yourself too! I understand that with all that has been going on, we’re hurt and overwhelmed. So, continue to pace yourself and know when to unplug and take mental breaks. Then, stand up again, when you’re ready. 🙏🏽

I understand that many of us (such as myself, coming from a conservative, African home) grew up in passive cultures and told to never “talk back” or “use your voice” even when you’re right. In the past, I researched and learned that my ancestors from Madagascar, were on the slave ships that were taken to Georgia and parts of South America such as Brazil and Peru. We were specifically targeted due to our timid, docile and obedient nature, and so were considered best suited as “House slaves.” 😔 Once discovering that, I understood that this is still an ancestral and generational curse that we need to heal and work through. I love and appreciate my people for their big, compassionate hearts, even in the face of adversity. So, I’m doing my best to empathize with those that may have trouble being vocal, while also processing their emotions and dealing with many internal struggles. I’m also proud of those of us that are healing and reprogramming ourselves, as well as, encouraging the generation before us to stand and use their voice just as they’ve witnessed ours.

I’m not asking you to meet me where I am now on this journey (trust me, I’ve been there and I’m constantly evolving) but, rather work through meeting yourself where you are. We ALL have the power to make a difference, so make sure to nurture and know your role! I’ve taken the time to list below ways YOU TOO can do your part, so feel free to share! ⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️

Remember Me This Way

Hey everyone!

I hope you're all safe and staying in as much as possible. I just wanted to express the heaviness in my heart from the loss of a sweet and dear childhood friend of mine, earlier this morning. He passed away due to complications from the virus, as well as, other serious health issues. I cannot imagine the immense panic, worry and pain of losing a child, parent or other family member. And you can never expect that the last conversation with that person would be the very last... My heart truly goes out to his parents during this extremely difficult time. 😔

He always dreamed of true love and growing old with someone... It truly breaks my heart that he will never get to experience that in this lifetime. He was always so self-aware, willing to learn and understand all of the complexities of life and had such a big heart. That guy knew how to write... I would find myself sometimes, having to take my time and respond in sections due to the extensive content (they were like essays, guys!) But, I loved how he would always remind me to take as much time as I needed to respond and even if I didn't get to, he was grateful to have some sort of outlet to vent anything weighing on his heart. I'm really going to miss his child-like innocence, his patience, for always wanting the best for me and those he cared for.

My girls and I were reminding one another that from now on, once someone comes to mind, reach out! Life is way too short! We need each other more than ever, so please if you can find some time during your day to contact someone, please do! Whether it's a text, call, email, or an old-fashioned letter by mail, do it! You never know how much that ONE kind gesture can encourage someone on this journey. Be more loving. Be more kind. Be more patient and embrace your present. 💕

I'm quite emotional today and had a good cry in the shower, but I know that I'll get through this and that I can hold onto the goodness in this life. I cherish people like him in life and I hope he knew how loved he was. We need more gentle souls in this world. I love you, Kris! Rest well, my friend. 💔

With Love,
Sharon 💙


P.S. this song immediately came to mind today, so feel free to give it a listen when you can. I started singing it to myself and couldn't help, but break down into tears. My heart truly aches today, but I trust that one day I will see him on that great morning. 🙏🏼

RIP Kris 🌻

Remember Me This Way - Jordan Hill (Casper 1995)

"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. 💖

"From This Moment..."

"How does a moment last forever? How does a story never die? It is love we must hold onto, never easy but we try..." 🌹

Ugh, that song never fails to tug at my heartstrings, especially the beautiful rendition Celine Dion did a couple years ago. I must warn you though, perhaps don't listen to it while on public transportation or else you could end up randomly bursting into tears. 😅

Hello my darlings! 🌸🌸🌸🌸

It's officially Spring and yet this NYC weather is still trifling... You never know whether to wear a hoodie, a denim jacket AND a scarf or a bubble coat and run the risk of dying from heatstroke by the afternoon. Anywho, I hope everyone's quarter has been peaceful, positive and productive so far and if not, I pray that things will settle down soon. 🙏

I wanted to express what's been on my heart and mind these last few days... Do any of you believe in "soulmates" or "twin flames"? What about "perfect timing" or the concept of "meant to be"? I'd like to believe that there is someone for everyone, but I do think that it really depends on not only who you choose to build with, where or when in your life you decide, but why? I'm a big believer in timing, yet also in the ability to change your fate. 🌟

Have you ever met someone and it just felt right? As if something just hits you out of the blue, whether through conversation, a look or a touch and it just "clicks." I don't really believe in "love at first sight" but I do believe in that "click." Everything just flows so effortlessly. Your mind is spinning and you don't even realize that you've been holding your breath... Their voice, their scent, their demeanor, their vibes are just illuminating. You're creating a moment from a spark. A memory. ✨

"Go on, go on leave me breathless..." When you dream of it and it somehow manifests into reality... It's like that saying of how you've always pictured it, but are never quite prepared for it... 😌

It's almost magical in a way, is it not? ✨🌟🌠🌙

I don't know about you, but I think we all deserve some magic in our lives... 🌠

With Love,
Sharon 🌙

Just Tea for Two, Two for Tea...

Hey everyone!

I thought that I would go on here and discuss a bit about shadiness, lack of transparency and how problematic lurking can be... 👀😏 I mean, how many of us can raise their hand and admit that they've done SUCH a good job at snooping that they came across way too much information after going down the rabbit hole? 🙋 Like should we be hired as private investigators? Probably, but I digress.

Anywho, let me indicate a small disclaimer that I will not reveal any names in these incidents, but feel free to fill-in the blanks or even share similar situations/experiences in the comments below. I'd love to sip tea along with you all! 🐸🍵

I'm sure that most of us are aware of this whole "side-hoe/chick/dude" epidemic and for those that willingly participate, God-speed to you... But, for the rest of us that want something real and have ever felt like we may have met the right person, so all seemed peachy, but suddenly you can't sleep, then begin to over analyze past conversations or situations and start to connect the dots at 2am, one can't help but want to scream or possibly commit a homicide (but, that would be far too extreme.) 😇

Oh and for the ones you meet that give you the classic line of: "I'm not ready for a serious relationship right now..." But, neglect to include: "Oh, but you can't see other people though and I hope that you remain loyal to me while I go sow my royal oats with other females that fit my type/fetishes/needs" or "I'll offer you the bare-minimum just to maintain access to you in case I need you back in my life (once I get my shit together), but I don't want anything serious with you right now, but you have no right to get upset because we're not even together, but I'm allowed to get possessive and jealous if another guy even looks at you or tries to communicate with you." If that's not a serious case of male brain-damage, then I don't know what is... 😒

And what really bugs me is that some guys may even dote on you hand and foot, proclaim all of these false promises and plans for the future, when in reality they don't even know what they're doing tomorrow, let alone next week... Sometimes it's not even them being inconsistent, it's the overbearing-types you also need to watch out for because they can really mess with your discernment. It's as if you can't even rely on your intuition anymore... 😩

I swear you think that the older you get, the better and mature guys become, but some of these dudes just make you want to go: Dang, what is up with the world today? Why are more and more people so manipulative and selfish? And why are some guys so afraid to feel something real? It's as if when it happens, they end up freakin' out and sabotaging a good thing over their indecisiveness. I'm not saying that all guys react that way, since I actually have had ONE case scenario where the guy was kind and upfront about what he wanted to do, how he felt and I truly respected him for it. We're still friends to this day and he's happily married now. He even offered sound advice as to how he knew she was his person, as well as, why it may take some guys longer to settle down and how some guys are just complete idiots when they meet the right girl. 😂

I guess my point is, can the people that want to fiddle every nook and cranny find another person that wants their cranny fiddled AND can the rest of us that would like to build a life with someone, find their person accordingly? I don't think that's too complicated is it? It's not a competition, it's just become exhausting having to start over when the timing is off. Side note: do you believe in meeting the right person, but at the wrong time? Like does time ever work out where both are in a good place and you can decide: "Great! Let's do this!" or is that just in the movies or for those that are prone to luck in love? It makes me think of those scenarios where high school sweethearts drift a part, they marry other people, both become widows/widowers and they reunite later in life. 💞

It's tough for me to say really, but I have experienced two cases where I thought the timing may work out better in adulthood. Unfortunately, it doesn't always mean "meant to be" it may just be more of a, "nah, this is why it wouldn't work out..." They say "timing is everything" but what most fail to realize is that time is not guaranteed! People change, circumstances can shift and you're not in control of what another person will do if another opportunity presented itself that may be a better fit. I'm at a point in my life where I need to make a decision on whether to stay and let things be or walk away. I'm in no rush, but I'm also not getting any younger and it's not fair to my heart and mind to wait around for a "possibility." I may be patient, but I'm no fool. 😤

Pardon the intense venting session, but I needed to release what's been weighing on my heart for the past 2-3 years and I'm thankfully in no way pointing the blame at anyone, I just hope and pray that more people may be more vocal about what they truly want and to never allow anyone to manipulate them, string them along or take them for granted. 🙌

Feel free to leave a comment below if any of these thoughts resonated with you and perhaps any suggestions for future posts.

I appreciate the support and kind ears. Enjoy the rest of the week! 💋

With Love,
Sharon 💖