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Hellooooo May!! Ohhh...we getting up there huh. Welcome to the FIF month of the year as we finish with April Showers. The weather still trying to figure out it's way but I'm thinking by the 2nd week of this month, I can totally pack away my sweater dresses. This JT meme will never get old to me, lol. Last month's allergies kicked my butt n I've been overly busy with work as of late so my posts last month were a tad scarce. I've previously did my WLS Sleeversary post just yesterday and speaking on that sparked my interest in looking to make time to add pickle ball to my roster. I wanna try something new n get more active than pilates which has been GREAT for my back n balance. I just don't think we have any pickle ballsssss near me so it would prolly need to be a weekend thang. What's on the agenda for the month? Ya know...I've been sorta distant from my friends within the past few months n it's more so on my end with personal setbacks n being a cocoon until I figure out my own master plan. I've been noticing a shift amongst the ways of the world n it's not that I'm looking forward to a zombie apocalypse, I just wanna be better prepared. In order to get ready, I've spoken earlier this year, I've been curving my spending. It's actually going better than I thought n has helped me become more conscious in my pennies. I was able to be responsible n negotiate a lower amount to pay for a debt I had lingering...whew...$1000 ain't a lot of money to receive yet it's a lot to cough up, lol. My goal is chomp on as much debt as possible before the year is out so I can be able to SEE my money per pay period...wish me luck!! Outside of that, I don't have much planned for the month. Daily walks and forcing myself to be more active. I wanna be flexible for friends to where we can meet up after work...where ever cuz it ain't always gotta involve food, lol, becuz yall are a grand ol' time n it's just a different energy in person that I looooove to feel. In preparation of July (#nsale), I am NOT doing any pickups at Nordies for a solid 2 months!! I definitely have some content to cross off the list n not deprive yall of. Coming up: Hair Perfume Collection My Beautiful Flamingo Basket Sip Trip Couture (I know...I'm behind) Amazon Haul: Quirky Bags n Eye Couture Clean Yo Mirror (I'm always nervous dropping these) In conclusion, I wish yall a prosperous month. May ur fresh day/month of today be better than the yesterday. May u find whatever fire needed to ignite whatever flame u let previously die out. May u peek back at that project u left behind n dust it off. May that nudge to tell u to take the class, push u to register. May that relationship u settling for remind u to cut the ties. May u repeat a post or hell even the outfit becuz...why not!! Goodbye April n Hello May

It's Friday and I'm headed out to Mexico, by myself, not knowing what to expect. I get to the airport and meet up with 2 other women who are there for the same thing. We all greet each other as we learn we're waiting for the same ride to see the same doctor. One laydee brought her bestie who had the surgery the previous year so she was instantly our "guide". We get to the medical facility (no it's not a hospital like here) and we meet with the doctor. My doctor explained the process thoroughly. He doesn't do more than 3 surgeries a day and does the proper blood work to determine if he'll proceed or not. I felt at ease. We all swapped stories on how we ended up in Mexico and what we were looking forward to after the success of the surgery. The nurses are such angels and catered to our every need. As I'm getting blood work done and medication I notice the facility is clean-cleaner than back at home believe it or not and I am the last one up to bat. The nurse comes in and says "ok the laydeez before u went well and ur next". HOLY SHYT my heart starts beating a tad bit faster and my tough girl exterior slowly fades. I can NOT believe I'm really about to do this. If I don't make it what will become of Mason?  Excerpt from Vintage Balls of Beauty Blog It's hard to believe these were my thoughts TEN YEARS ago!! If ever u wanna quick rewind, u can find them---> here <---but I promise I won't bore u with updates!  By now there are so many new innovations to weight loss surgeries and let's not talk about the popularity of Ozempic n nem. I have no judgement in whatever tool folks decide to utilize but I'm here to tell ya...as someone a decade in the game...can we be real here??? No judgement zone and no flex-if I must cut to the chase I can tell u I have no magic tricks nor diet secrets to reveal. U gotta be real with urself. By being real with urself it's stripping urself naked n standing in the mirror to get a goooood look at the reflection. Do I like what I see? How did I get here? Do I wanna change it? and How do I get to the point of loving what looks back at me in this mirror? These are convo's to have with self to reflect n reset. Making the decision to fly off to Mexico n drop $4k was the best decision I can stand behind on today. It has been a full on rollercoaster ride with twists n setbacks to comebacks. Where am I currently in this journey? errr uuuh...stagnant n content. I still have baby weight n Toot is a whole FIVE chile. I'm no slacker though...I've been doing pilates for about a year and LOVING it. I don't have the pressures of doin it to lose weight. I even wanna look into doin pickle ball to stay active. I am horrible at water, still enjoy fried chicken n every now n then I can tear into some red meat so please do NOT look to me bout nothing diet related. I do have an interest in fasting but it's more for a spiritual space. I guess I dropped in to say...my journey has now evolved pass utilizing my WLS to lose weight n pretty much maintain what I have and if I just so happen to get in the mode to intentionally lose along the way-so be it. The misconception folks have when u freshly get surgery or whatever method is...you'll drop instantly to the point of being down 100 lbs in 2 wks lol. You must TRULY go back n look at ur childhood pics for an idea of ur body type. For me...I know as I'm NOW 220lbs, my ideal weight is 185. I've always been a smaller frame so I know it's there and I'm tall so it carries well but none of that means anything with an unhealthy lifestyle. As I'm a whole DECADE strong in the game, I can add...focus on changing the mindset n allow urself to adjust to a new lifestyle-this is NOT EASY!! Kudos to an amazing trainer (Ken) who was the foundation after my surgery to instill dieting n exercising throughout my journey. While I haven't attended bootcamp in a few years; her voice is embedded in my head n kicks in as needed. I am ecstatic for all of you who take the leaps of faith to do WLS and/or bussin ur azz working out. The hardest part is starting AND being consistent so I also salute those trying even with small steps becuz they eventually turn into bigger steps. As we get older, I truly see (and feel) the importance of exercise. DO IT DAILY!!! I know with work and life, it's hard. I'm a horrible snacker at work and these days popcorn for dinner ain't so bad. At the end of the day... shyt gotta get real uncomfortable before u become comfortable and even getting to ur goals takes even MORE work to maintain it with so many factors (excuses) we allow to break the dream. You cannot afford cheat days! You cannot afford to skip due to holiday's, weekends, vacay's...celebrations and if ur an emotional eater-stop it. You gotta figure out a way to channel that energy elsewhere for the greater good n bigger picture. Or you can have vivid reminders of where u started n make the sound choice to NEVER go back again!! When Marci sent me this pic from the cruise circa 2012, I told her this pic of my big azz would NEVER see the light of day in fear of being meme'd n memories of a time when I didn't love myself in the way I do today. I can boldly share it today after 12 yrs becuz I know the WORK I put in for the new version of me. Kisha 2.0 was born ten years ago after leaving Mexico and my weight loss journey turned into a spiritual one alongside becuz once u remove JUNK u have better clarity n making decisions becuz u value who u are with discovering what no longer serves u. This shyt bigger than Nino Brown!!! Hell...I'm amp'd up n motivated as I type this post n feel a boost of energy to take a random walk right now. Even if it's just 20 min u HAVE TO be moving! Thank you to accountability partners who check in and share their struggles n we end up doin shyt together. I have a platonic friend who every time he sees me on FT he'll bark at me to get off the couch. I roll my eyes n oblige. U really do need to embrace a TEAM of support. It will sound like nagging at first n u will huff n puff then thank em in the long run. I don't wear my WLS mark on my forehead to promote it becuz I don't wanna be a poster child of the sleeve yet I'm open to the community becuz we share similar stories. I see stuff all the time about how sleeves "stopped working" and "pouch tests" along with folks who've been stalled or gained weight. Ultimately...consult a nutrionist and learn ur body. It's the hack to losing weight n maintaining. I always tell yall...I wish I would've seeked counseling BEFORE and after surgery instead of jumping head first becuz if ur an emotional eater or don't have exercise as apart of the lifestyle you will yoyo and for me, I felt distraught. Your not skinny enuff to sit at the Kate Moss table yet ur no longer big enuff for the plus size n feel stuck in between or have survivors remorse to those left behind-it's a lot of emotions to juggle. As I close out with what will be my FINALE post to celebrate my "Sleeversary", I've left more than enuff content from beginning to now with the ups n downs of what I learned and before/after progress pics. Yall can also reach out throughout my socials n...well yea yall know where to find me! I appreciate chall reading n allowing me to freely speak in such a space becuz this is a vulnerable topic for me to share and I appreciate chall for the embrace!

Once upon a time I weighed 180. I was totally comfortable at that number and worked a good ol' dc gubment jawb from 9 to 5. Along came a bouncing baby boy in 2006 and a new job doing shift work and before I knew it, that 180 turned into 230. The only way I noticed it was from the clothes I used to fit BEFORE Mason would no longer zip up and buttons would hold on to dear life ready to burst any moment. If you have ever worked shift work or nights you can relate to horrible eating habits. The thing is....I never really ate a lot its just that when I did eat, it's junk food or fast food at night n lack of sleep. When u work at the fire department them folks STAY cookin and when the holidays roll around the only DIET u see is commercials gearing up for the New Years. Now along with shift work, how about we add the many yo-yo's of a relationship from one person, failed relationships from a rebound, depression from trying to figure out where ur going in life, not being where u wanna be in life, mourning ur mom, paying endless bills, changing a schedule from 4 days off to ALL nights and every 2 days (and I dare not mention being bullied AT ur job but that's a whole nother topic) and stress all around u can easily go from 230 to a whopping 290lbs when u lack discipline and a phk to give! It happens so quick as if it happens overnight knowing dmn well u noticed them pants sizes going up every few months. Now don't get it twisted I've always been fly and fluffy but people are surprised to know that at 5'8 I was TWO HUNDRED AND NINETY POUNDS!!! EEEEK!! Maybe becuz I carried it well but when I took my clothes off I seen every bit of it. I was not happy! I was miserably content with ballooning to my heaviest becuz at the end of the day I ate good, traveled and Mason's very well taken care of. Did I know I should've been losing weight becuz I was living an unhealthy lifestyle? Of course! I had someone give me a reality check to say "u ain't press to lose weight cuz u still get attention from the fellas". Errr uhhh yeaaaa! Duuuh! Look at me twirls around Erybody love me...Ery-Erybody love me ;) BUT STILL the fellas was never my top priority becuz I have more to offer than just beauty. I was plain ol' lazy and didn't care. I had family and friends trying to motivate me to lose weight but lets be real here....u can tell a crackhead all day to get off drugs and it won't click until THEY are ready. Part II: Ten Years Later shall follow this post...

This morning I was thankfully awaken by birds. It's spring season so they sing tunes before the sunrise. While I couldn't drift back off for another hour, I started contemplating what to wear for #SipTripSaturday n this is where I deliberate to myself...where am I going n more importantly..what am I gonna wear. Charlie Brown was the inspo for the Couture of the Day!! I had grabbed this bag in 2021 to add to my quirky bag stash n figured I'd dust it off this morning. I had previously ordered the t-shirt along with an added accessory to bring it ALL together n VOILA!! While the bag might be the initial eye catcher, I knew my #ootd needed an added oomph to make it POP!! As much as I love my Apple Watch, I also wanna give it a break n not be so overly connected so I'm easing back into the basics. It was a tad chilly yall...so I had to layer with an old sleeveless cardigan (definitely over 5 yrs old) n wore it under a lightweight linen blend blazer I grabbed on sale last year. This was my overall look for my SB n Wegman's run n I enjoyed my "subtle" way of paying homage with a nod to my childhood. I absolutely enjoyed putting this outfit together in my head off the early morning with such a smile on this beautiful day. I've been leaning more towards crafting looks that allow me to tell the story without overly selling it. Subtle accessories allow u to not work hard becuz whether I relax it with jeans or dress it up in all black w/heels-THE BAG will speak for me n the watch was merely a whisper. Now unfortunately...the bag is no longer available (neither is the card holder) but I've listed some alternatives in my Amazon Storefront: Good Grief Charlie Brown Couture Quick Fun Fack: The creator, Schultz wanted to leave adults out the mix in the same manner of them being backdrops in the comic strips so they figured out a way to create the teachers infamous "wah wah" voice. The use of a trombone with a mute in the bell to stand in for any adult dialogue was the idea of Composer Vince Guaraldi (better known for Charlie Brown Chirstmas n nem). How cute is this look? It's adorable n I like being able to pull off a playful look becuz it makes u approachable as it's a conversation starter. To put a smile on someone's face is my gift n serving the community n who would've thought Charlie's signature could be turned into a whole LEWK!!

Helloooooo April and what's known for showers! I am open to receiving all my blessings in the form of showers. We are entering the 2nd quarter of the year and I'm finally feeling like I'm getting traction on organizing my 2024 with aligning priorities with action. Reviewing Q1, I can say my birthday month was a blur as I slid into February with more of a grip on what I wanted my 2024 to look like which lead to my theme: Simplicity . March became more stable for me becuz I spoke about curving my spending to pay things off n reliably shop in preparation of an upcoming college kid n overall adulthood. I can honestly report my Nordie's expenditures have slowed down with more intentional shopping n disgusting myself with these purges to declutter. If you read my 01 March post ; I had some due outs that I'm happy to have accomplished :D Feel free to catch up from ALL March posts to see what's been checked off the list.   “Love life. Engage in it. Give it all you’ve got. Love it with a passion because life truly does give back, many times over, what you put into it.” —  Maya Angelou While Spring season is a time for renewal, I also want to use more time to relaaaaax. Every quarter this year I wanna make sure I schedule a Spa Day and sneak in at least one staycation and weekend getaway to unplug from the world. I've had such a tug on my spirit to unplug more often than not to live outside n OFF the grid but trying to find the balance of still being connected to my community via social media.  So what's on the docket for April? Well...this month marks a full year of Pilates for me. It also marks my 10th Sleeve-versary (WLS) and I'll be happy to give an update to both. Thanks to daylight savings, I'm able to get back to evening walks to decompress the day n add more movement to break away from laziness. Maybe I'll dust off my Sip Trip section becuz I have discovered new spots and I do plan on diversifying my resume to add some A.I classes for professional development n challenging myself to learn something new.  What's on your list to do for April? Spring Cleaning? Doing something you've been putting off? Let me know in the comments.

This posted started off with the intentions of bringing Spring Trends as I notice what we are repeating (cargos) n what's fading away (stilettos) with what I bet not catch yall in (short shorts...like Daisy Dukes short) but also what I'm keeping alive (wide legs) becuz I'm not a trendy shopper but I do incorporate current styles within my dress codes throughout the seasons. I'm not center stage so I don't feel the need to walk around with ready to wear runway looks. I'm just a regular degular mom with a full time job who enjoys errand runs on the weekends n Saturday Sip Trips to decompress my week n my attire reflects such with a kick of pizzazz!! The beauty of Spring is how to transition into warmer weather. I tend to shop with the idea of what to wear during seasonal adjustments in order to get more bang for the buck. This can also account to why I'm not big on shopping trends!! What I wear to work can be transformed to attire for Happy Hour as well as mix n match for Weekend Rendezvous. The art of not being able to tell if I'm headed to a gala or grocery store is just overall my personal style but I have a few inspo's to dress down within the post...let's get started: Sweater Dresses are my favorite transitional pieces becuz if ur back in the office (or not), it's enuff to keep u warm in the mornings n breathable to not overheat. I grabbed this Caslon Belted Dress (on sale $28) from...u guessed it, lol-Nordies. The Black in size L which does fit BUT I like wearing my dresses without the need to wear shape wear so I got the brown in XL for added room. The removable tie belt can be swapped for a buckle belt to dress it up more n I can wear slingbacks, mules or toss on sneaks to take it from Werk Couture to Elevated Casual. Speaking of #ElevatedCasual this has been one of the trendiest styles to be labeled n it's so clutch becuz who knew...I just always called it my dressed down still being dressed up, lol. My absolute go-to is the essentials of wide leg sweatpants. I've always loved elephant pants, palazzo's or whatever they call em at the time but THESE are must haves for tall laydeez. They've become so practical that if I dress em up too much they'll look like trousers lol. My go to formula is a sweater (tucked or blouse'd) to neat'n up the look. The joys of blazers...let me count the ways...For the Spring/Fall, getchu a lightweight blazer in a relaxed or boyfriend style. I love leaning towards linen blend ones to keep it light but also if u wanna tip toe into it-do NOT spend a lot. U can catch these on sales n at Nordy Rack spots. If I want a more spruced up business-y structured look I peek into the men's section. I've done a previous post: For the Love of Blazers to show alternative looks. This is a MUST HAVE essential to even keep in the car becuz in case of "emergency" aka last minute calls to hang out, lol. I can wear my "trouser" sweats n toss on a blazer AND even if my sweats were joggers...toss on a blazer n some heels n BAM-u got a LEWK!! DENIM!! DENIM!! DENIM!! CHAMBRAY!! CHAMBRAY!! CHAMBRAY!! Not sure if yall pay attention or not Buuuut I'm not big on denim. It's a heavier material than Chambray but I hate shopping for jeans becuz a lot of times they don't be flattering on me with the illusion of slimming me down (no fault of theirs but still-lol...lie to me). I'm all for the "Canadian Tuxedo" trend which is basically denim on denim but becuz I live a looser lifestyle, it can be challenging. Fret not...the Cham's save the day!! The ease n relaxation these Caslon Cham's give me ($60, size XXLarge) will have me gliding through ur cookouts n flowing through parks making life easy. I can toss a t-shirt on or crochet top to keep it casual. Chambray isn't a style I'd dress up becuz I'd wanna keep it playful. I've made references how I am slowly but surely easing into Black n White for work. Panda Couture is still in full swing. While I couldn't wear see-through ANYTHING into the office, I couldn't not bring it home after trying it on in Nordies. This Open Edit Sheer Button Up ($60, XL) is oversized so size down-I know I'll be layering so I went UP. Seeing this totally took me back to the early 90's n I'm excited to pair this with bottoms shown above. My Madewell's Poplin Tuxedo (now on sale $37, Size M) take note the fact I got a medium sized lets u know how oversized they are, lol. This gave me a waitress-y look but I love the detail to give me the ability to not do much but toss on light accessories to not distract far from the top. 2 pc rib knit sweater top n skirt ; $40 size XL Black n White Sunglasses ; $10 Black Croc Clutch ; $23 Black n White Cowboy Boots exclusively from Nashville-NO you can't have them nor find them!! Ever since I've found Fear of God Essential s in Nordies, it's like finding a long lost cousin. I've fallen in overly like of how these grace my body n not work hard at looking put together. For the warmer months, T-shirt dresses are MUST HAVES!! I was able to catch the black one (sold out) on sale for $30 but I have no problem paying full price based on the quality I've received now owning 2 of em which I've reviewed here . The goal I'm aiming for this season will be to keep it simple n look like a lot without doing a lot because I am changing over my wardrobe stash into being less complicated to get dressed. While I do believe in the proper undergarments n shape wear to pull in a look n to keep us polished, there are time's if I'm running to Wegman's or taking Toot to the park that I don't wanna be constricted to shaping under my tshirt dresses which is why I go UP a size and becuz I don't work in a full office anymore-I can make capsule's werk couture. With the weather breaking, have u pulled out the Spring totes to unpack or u shopping for new clothes? What's on ur MUST HAVE list for the season u feel is essential to rock as the temperatures rising. Let me know below!!

After a solid FIVE years of experiencing the Cherry Blossoms , I think I have a pretty good idea of how to prep mentally n physically before trekking downtown DC in order to get up close n personal with what many flock for a glimpse to see.Here 's some tips n tricks I've narrowed down...let's go: 1. PACK SOME PATIENCE!! After the Winter, the city is itching to get out ESP if the weather is above 55 degrees. Between people heading back into the office, surrounding residences, tourists n people like me who don't wanna do public transportation...just know...there WILL be traffic. 2. Which brings me to PARKING!! The They's will strongly suggest u do public transportation (I shan't) n while I know it would be less of a headache, I like the challenge, lol. The earlier the better to get as close as possible. I like to park near the MLK Memorial but if I get there after 1000a, I park near Independence Ave n walk a few blocks over which puts me adjacent to the African American Museum and u can't miss the monument. There are options to PAY in Public Parking lots n garages but I can't give much insight cuz I despise paying the 5 Gina!!  3. LOCATION!! Depending on where u park, you can follow the crowds to lead the way. Near the monument you'd find kids flyin kites and u can be a tourist n hit any direction but the photogenic side of the blossoms are along the Tidal Basin. If u flounce around u can stop pass the memorials surrounding which will also give u a chance for potty breaks if needed. Quick Break: As we were walking near the monument, a lady walked up to us and put a bracelet of luck on our wrists n it happened so fast all I heard was a language I didn't speak and PEACE. I kept asking her how much and she showed me a booklet that read "Donations"-I gave her $10-as I was still in shock I allowed a stranger to get so close-I didn't wanna not take it cuz I don't wanna block my blessings. 4. THE CROWD !! Please refer to Number 1 n relaaaaax. The crowds will be in ur way, lol. The strollers will be annoying. The joggers aren't chasing u. The bikers are prepared for abrupt stops and again...the earlier the lesser the crowds but just know...anything after 1000a it can get crazy. When taking pics-keep moving...u ain't got time to be holding up the line or spot for a full photoshoot so be mindful n respectful of time. 5. THE SWEET SPOT!! The best times I've found to go is before 0900a if ur just taking it all in and want to slow walk the Tidal Basin n run into "Stumpy" also for PARKING. I tend to go before a week prior to the festivities to avoid the detours n blocked entrances which means u gotta park further away. If u get out there on a bright n sunny day AFTER Noon...just gawn n pay the 5 Gina!! Or stalk folks walking towards a heap of cars to snatch a space but just know that's 30 min in itself.  These are quick tips n tricks for a trip downtown to enjoy the blossoms. There's a different vibe depending on the time of day n the quantity of the crowds. I would block off about 3-4 hrs to give urself time with parking, walking n pausing to manuever around the crowd.  After all that walkin...are you hungry yet? Me personally, I don't like public restrooms near parks n I don't do porta potties-EWW!! So my water intake is limited to avoid having to...yea-BUT after the walk n shots; I'm famished n thirsty. This brings me to...a finale tip: HONORABLE MENTION!! As a Washingtonian...I remember the days WHEN...my Great Aunt Louise would come home with a half smoke after work n I later would indulge in my own for lunch at work after rent time. You could get a Half Smoke (they call em Glizzy's now, lol) and I dress mine up with mustard n relish, bag of chips n can soda for $3.50!!! A few Blossoms ago, I'd relive those humble beginnings n grab a half smoke by itself for $5.00. This year...as we walkin back, I stop pass one of the many food trucks out there n grabbed a HOT DOG which ended up being.... TEN DOLLARS!! W hiskey T ango F oxtrot!! I know inflation is real but I was NOT happy with this robbery. It wasn't even a HALF SMOKE annnnd it was bland even WITH mustard. I don't know if I was more disappointed in the COST or the Glizzy itself but either way...DO NOT make the same mistake I made. I don't like trucks without the prices listed-I'll stop there. As I walked down further, I came across a stand that actually had half smokes for $5, by that time I was so pissed wasting TEN dollars...I have noted this for the next time! Ok-rant over!! Enjoy the show!!

After welcoming Spring, my kickoff to the season for the last few years has been keeping track of the blossoms downtown DC to partake in the Cherry Blossoms. Ever since 2019 , I've been taking advantage of being closer than those who travel far to get a glimpse n walk the Tidal Basin to experience our gift from then Mayor Yukio Ozaki in 1912 of blooms. This year...it sprung up on me earlier than expected but nonetheless, I pivoted to make my tradition carry on. Due to us having warmer weather at the beginning of March, the stages accelerated n we ended up peaking a week before I expected. Yall..I stay close to the news in preparation (feel free to scour through previous CB posts ) and I was already planning out the outfits along with the day n time becuz there's such a science to capturing the "perfect" moment so when it came early it was a life happens moment. Why? Becuz even though I'm close, I don't live down the street and I also have a JOB, lol. I stay away from DC on a regular weekend and KNOW it would be a challenge to squeeze this year in....oh...and let's not forget the major factor of the weather. We went from a preview to Spring with 70 degrees back to SIKE Winter still lingering at 40 degrees and we had some rain so I was crossing my fingers there would be something left by the time I got there.  There's nothing u can't do once u put ur mind to do it. After a dreary Saturday, I made the decision to take advantage of extra hands (Mason) to take my pics n cut down on lugging a tripod around n tossed on an outfit to adhere to the weather n comfort. Nothing fancy!! I wanted to be an example to content creators who suffer from overthinking n waiting for the perfect time to just do it. Work with what u have but I also knew I wasn't gonna take "creating" too seriously becuz at this point in the game...I'm carving intentional time to do what I now love to do-partake in the Cherry Blossoms.  This year meant more than emerging in the festivities. I made it a moment to share with Mason before he headed off on his college tour for Spring Break and I paid more attention to the surroundings rather than getting the perfect shot. Now becuz it was windy n COLD in the morning, we didn't walk the full Tidal Basin and honestly...I would only do that by myself so I don't feel rushed. It was a pleasure to see a melting pot of cultures coming to observe the beauty of the blossoms n there was also a 5k race going on. There's a handful of food trucks throughout spaces on the mall and I'll do small rant on a separate post to follow, lol.  I am glad I did a spontaneous trip to see the cherries and hope to catch em before they fall off because I grab something new every year-this year, I noticed more how the colors shifted from white to pink. I never paid much attention to em previously but to REALLY take the shade shifts into account vs just snapping a pic was beautiful.  Once the cherries blossom u typically have a good 2 week window to check em out. One of my goals is to catch a sunrise and a sunset but I don't wanna be out there shivering to do so and the way global warming moving...peak time gonna end up being Mid-March one day ** le sigh** Have yall checked out the blossoms yet? or plan on making ur way to do so...up next some tips n tricks to navigate the trip!!

I practice gratitude as a daily routine becuz I am well aware nothing is owed to me n life in general isn't promised. At any minute it can be removed n we walk around with this entitlement as if we "deserve" the grace God gives. I am not here to take nobody to church but let the tabernacle say...AMEN!! I stress to yall heaux to have or get a morning routine becuz it sets the tone for the day n while ur routine may not be as extensive as mine-challenge urself to something in smaller doses n watch it grow. One thing I never skip on is GRATITUDE!! I wake up thankful to see my car still in parked cuz back in the day...umm yea...if ur an 80's baby n ain't have parents to supply ur lifestyle at one point the snatchman was on ur azz lol or if ur car has ever been stolen u know how much of a blessing it is to see ur car still where u left it. I wake up smiling to them annoying azz birds who could quite possibly be reincarnations of Minnie Ripperton as they sing near my window cuz I know there's deaf people who can't hear em. I wake up watching my kids sleep peacefully. I love how they giggle in their sleep too (I catch my own self laughing in mine) becuz some parents aren't able to lay their eyes on their own. I wake up being thankful to even wake up n I wanna make the best of my time to the best of my ability so practicing gratitude has been the best morning routine to incorporate. I do it throughout the day n at the end of the day. A lot of times, people wait until something bad happens to solicit prayers but why u only calling on 'em during a down spiral? The practice of gratitude keeps me covered in a way whether good or bad...I'm thankful in it all cuz there's a lesson to be had. Every blessing is like hitting the lottery no matter how big or small. I play around n be jokey jokey but I don't play about my spiritual being n the ability to recognize I don't do this alone. I am strong in the faith I cannot see n while I don't talk about it much-I honestly don't need to becuz u will see it within ME. P.S. My niece got me this mug from Hawaii...it's the little things that make me smile. She thought enuff of me on vacay to grab me a mug that suits me-I love it.

How did we get here? Falling absolutely head over heels in love with all things Nordstrom! If u follow me whether online or on the road, lol, u would know my direction is always headed towards this glorious place which became my 2nd home. It all began in 2010... I used to frequent Annapolis Mall and Nordstrom was totally new to me. On a random, girls day out with Eb (she's not a blogger but influential), we went in during what I've grown to know as the Anniversary Sale. I was just getting into makeup n she took me to the Bobbi Brown counter. Being the green naive me... I'm thinking WOW...I didn't know Bobby Brown had a makeup line...lmaooooo!! Don't judge me!! I had no clue lol. So while I dip head first into more expensive makeup, the SA offers me to open an account. I'm like...sure why not and from there...it was Hit Em Up Style! So here I am, fresh in the game. Mason was around 4 yrs old n between juggling being a mom n working at the Fire Dept (which was looooong and overnight shifts of hours), Nordstrom would become an escape. Although I wore uniforms for work, I still played with fashion n style on what little off time I had and I would make Spring my time for a ME DAY where I'd get an outfit n take myself out to lunch while Mason was in school. As I became a more frequent shopper n building relationships with the SA's, I built a bond with the brand overall being a familiar face n truly felt like a family. What I absolutely LOVE about Nordstrom is their selections n multiple options of brands on any price scale that allow me to debunk people from thinking they are only high end. I've grown up shopping alongside my mom(s) in department stores: Woodward & Lothrop which turned into Hecht's which we know as Macy's today. The wisdom of my mom's taught me HOW to shop for the best deals. I know how to make a dollar out of fifteen cents; so trust me...there's something in Nordies and Nordy RACK that WILL fit ur budget. No Cap-I've even grabbed a dress as low as $0.01-YES!! It rang up for ONE PENNY!! TIP: If u pick up something on the clearance rack, don't be afraid to price check AT the register becuz u could very well be surprised what blessings await. Over the years, I've really honed in on how to shop, where to shop and WHEN. There's such a science n sweet spot to it all n I can truly say-I've mastered this game. Throughout my BGIN Series, I'll share but this post is about The Beginning!! If I were to brag about Nordstrom, I'd be here forever. In a nutshell, they've become my favorit department store to shop based on the value, options whether high n low but more important the CUSTOMER SERVICE!! I've never throughout my years of shopping here had a bad experience. Minor mistakes of a wrong item being shipped don't count, any issues I've ever had have been resolved to the highest level of ensuring I'd be satisfied n I truly appreciate their practice in such a manner becuz it makes me want to support them even more. I've even tested this theory at other department stores n by far...Nordies have them beat. The experience is unmatched n I'm not being bias becuz I love them so much, lol, from the stylists to the associates to the managers; your greeted and offered assistance that isn't in a pesky annoying way. I was totally devastated to learn the Annapolis location where it all started for me was closing during the pandemic n so now I've relocated to Tysons Corner. I don't discriminate on any Nordy Racks n incorporate peeking in there for quick picks. My absolute favorite time will always be the Anniversary Sale which takes place around July/August. I. Go. CRAZY!!!! This year I am preparing differently with less shopping now and stacking Nordstrom notes to drop and gift becuz I also want others to be introduced to my world n the #Nsales are the best time to shop-especially as we gear up for Fall. If u see me in Nordstrom anything...do NOT mind ur business n please say HI. I am totally approachable in my 2nd home n I can also get lost with tunnel vision if I zero in n try to stay focused so I promise I'm not being rude if I don't see u. More than likely, I have a cup in my hand n my other arm being weighed down w/clothes folded over as I'm headed to the dressing room, lol. Is anyone else a Nordies Gal??? Let me know if there's any brands to be on the lookout for becuz I love finding underdogs n if ever u were curious-THIS is ur sign!

I wasn't sure to classify this under my Clean Your Mirror Series vs Fan Mail but figured since it has been apart of my evolution over the years n there's some vulnerability up in this piece-why not. This post has been sitting in the back of my brain since I've received comments over the last year or so that request me to "show more skin". Becuz I aim to please, I wanna dedicate this "segment" to do just that n honor the request w/bearin it all-here! So be sure to put the kiddies up n turn on ur sexiest slow jam playlist cuz it's gonna get steamy... How did we get here? If u are new here, I have no time to catch u up. U can rewind n scroll throughout my social platforms starting from today n goin back as far as Black Planet days n what u will not find is Noods of any kind, lol. Sorry to disappoint cha. If that's what u stayed for, feel free to hop off the train now before we depart the station... I am very much aware in the social media world in order to get likes; the posts that show more skin n less clothes are likely to get more attention than me holding a flower in a caftan or post it note with a profound quote-BORIIIIIING!! In order to get ur attention there has to be a grab or something that elude's to SEX. In order to make a long post less long, lol, I'll say this...as women ESP Black Women, we are overly sexualized n fantasized about as is n I have no desire to feed into that part of the social world. Even tho' I get offers when I randomly post my feet, lol, please don't look for me to have an Only Fans (I created an account n paused at the bank info part haha). There's just some things my integrity won't allow me to do. While the fans request for me to show more skin, I didn't take it in a disrespectful way (especially without a deposit) n figured THEY clearly don't follow me enuff nor know me in the real world. This is where lines get blurred becuz my social media isn't just "for the gram" n I don't look for likes to validate my being online. This shyt is bigger than Nino Brown... I am Forty Three and as an 80's baby who grew up in the 90's...our mama's (and Auntie's) didn't play that shyt. We also grew up amongst an actual community which meant...even someone who wasn't yo mama could have not really a say so but remark on correction. I've stated many times, my mother has heavily influenced how I dress becuz she was an example in the home. Other women who've made an impact on my style include EnVogue, Whitley Gilbert from A Different World, Cassandra Clark from 227, Dominque Deveraux from Dynasty n u couldn't tell me I wouldn't grow up to be in Vanity 6 becuz I had a crush on THE Denise Matthews. Those are just a few who've made an imprint to represent sophistication n class. They've all been able to show what sexy is without u even seeing their love below (ok don't include Vanity) but for me....the mystery is the draw n the imagination is what's sexy. I can recall as early as middle school to where the girl voted "Prettiest Girl in the Class" came up to me n said the boys voted me as the "Sexiest Girl" n I had no idea how or why becuz I didn't dress scantily clad n felt quite goofy as a teen. The image of sexy in my head involved being naked or wearing something tight to show the form. Honeychiiiiile, I was in my Left Eye baggy jeans era lol. The tomboy look was IN. As I grew up, I'd later understand my middle school superlative title **giggles** becuz sexy is way more than what ur eyes see yet we use it in such a way to describe the outer being. It's why we have "Sexiest Man or Woman Alive" magazine covers n why when we got dressed for the club, we'd wear "Come Hither Couture" haha. What I've come to learn is, I ain't gotta show shyt to get shyt n while we grew up to "use what we got to get what we want" there's clearly more than one way to skin a kitty! To address the concerns of such fans who get disappointed they have no idea what I look like underneath **cue evil laugh** I absolutely LOVE it this way. I prefer the boring side of alluring u to think u know but uncertainty kicks in becuz I come at a different angle but the chase of trying to figure me out is sexy! I'm not modest for religious reasons or insecurities. I just want to take pride in how I represent not just for myself but my kids. I know how important it is to see the image at home n I'm mindful of this. It's beyond honoring my parents but myself first. I'm comfortable fresh face n naked in the mirror. I'm also confident in the woman who continues to evolve with a greater understanding n lessons of life even with bumps n bruises along the way. This is how I'm able to carry myself in such a way to where I can stand next to the most naked-ess of them all n get attention, if not more than. I'm eccentric, I'm moody, I love color n embrace all my imperfections. How I show my skin is being true to myself n sharing that how I see fit online. I'm much better to experience offline, lol n you'll like see me fully naked in person haha. I have no qualms sharing personal stories to those I trust n have the ability to decipher who's just being nosy. There's absolutely no judgement to those who choose to share their bodies online. You'd be lucky to get me in a bathing suit, lol. I just know how to show my azz without showing my azz. I will say...when ur in the modern dress club, lol, it can be a lonely road becuz it's not popular. I feel like the more trash our culture promotes the more my aethetic becomes obsolete n I become an alien. Totally reminds me of this Twilight Zone episode!! This new world full of "I...I...I.." and "Me...Me..Me" we forget we have a duty to those coming behind us to represent n also be mindful of our image tainted within the media. I'm the eldest of my siblings so I've always been in a position of leadership n whether we ask for it or not, WE ARE role models to someone. Who know's how I would've turned out had my mama dressed in the manner of Cardi B n had me WAP'n throughout the house out loud or if Whitley kept her tongue always AHT'n n AYE'n :P or if Ms. Deveraux twerked n tossed tables becuz the champagne was burnt-LOL!! Who knows...but as much as we love to stress how representation matters; I just wanna be the images I want my young nieces to strive for n not have my sons bring home...well that's another story, lol...yall know how M.O.B can be!! So I am flattered n quite honored to receive such requests for me to show more skin cuz it's an image not many can say they've seen which makes u apart of an elite group IF u ever get a glance n since we all love exclusive shyt to see my nudes online would be like catching a four leaf clover ;)

Oh Hey Spring **ha chew** is that you??? **grabs Zyrtec** Now if you TRULY know me, you'd know...this is where Kisha No E starts to wake up from hibernating from the Winter n get in my bag. I love the changing of seasons n whether we gain or lose an hour from daylight savings, I'm grateful for every minute n look forward to taking advantage of creating memorable moments to toss in the 2024 basket. Typically January 01 comes so fast, we are still trying to gain control after the holiday's to get back in the groove. By March is where I get a steady balance on steering the wheel for a year. I've been taking social breaks here n there to get some clarity n silence random noise. This month acts as renewal. We get extra daylight-YESSSSS!!! This gives me time to enjoy evening strolls after work in between pilates. This allows me to enjoy sunrises during slow mornings n sunsets on my balcony. The pandemic turned me into a plant lover. I repot my plants throughout the home as needed. Mainly my monstera's cuz they grow crazy n I do inventory to add to my collection. I'm overdue to renew my balcony for an outside oasis. I tend to do this every 3 yrs or so n it makes me so happy! I'm outside in a different way, lol. Even if ur not a plant lover, I'd highly and I mean HIGHLY recommend u treat urself to blooms. Enjoy ur flowers while ur here!! I tend to do weekly blooms becuz I love being greeted when I open my eyes to walking in n out the house to fresh flowers. I make my own bouquet and grab some from Trader Joe's or Wegman's. I am looking to invest more into an actual florists this season to support so if u have recommendations...that'll be great. Becuz florists are pricier, I'd add em into a monthly budget. Flowers n plants elevate the vibe in making the house a home. Mood setters!! Let's get to the fashions!!! The Spring Trends suggested have been hitting the streets with creators dropping all types of vids on what they see headed our way. The fashion world is always forward so by the time Spring gets here, we are already seeing what to expect for Fall. I know...I know...we just got here right but in the world of fashion...designers don't sit around n twiddle their thumbs to marinate in the current season. For ME, I'm not a trendy shopper. Last year the cargo's came back n I told yall...I was skipping cuz I had enuff of em in '02 n nem. I'm also in the season of boredom as I'm tired of so many clones so I'm more apt to adjust n dress my age (yes, I know that term is also controversial) becuz my resume speaks for itself. Feel free to comb through and even revisit the trend which has grown this season that I was on the forefront of **pops collar** Top Fashion Trend of 2023 I can give my forecast of my own Spring Trend now...I love to go with themes and for 2024 it'll tie into my Year of Simplicity concept. Yall know I like my "show ya azz without showing ya azz" motto, lol and although I'm not press to be seen-I just can't help it. I believe the attention from it comes from the fact nobody really puts in effort to be presentable n the lack of range amongst our people. I just wanna be a solid representation of what I'd like to see around me n also an option for younger girls to look up to and SEE everything doesn't have to be too tight n daisy duke short to fit in **no pun intended** wit the cool kids! My niece already know...I don't play that n Auntie Kisha is a reflection of this. I owe yall some posts don't I?? March due outs ...EEK!! Lemme get on it cuz the first quarter is almost over as we head into April. So loooong to the Winter Blues n Helloooo to Sensational Spring. Any plans for the season? Trying anything new? Revisiting an idea u didn't do last year? Share in the comments.