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If it's one thing social media is good at is influencing and convincing u to believe u NEED whatever it is they promoting. They drum up all this hoopla n then u go scrounging for it becuz the fear of FOMO creeps in n if u miss out ur not amongst the cool crowd. Well I'm guessing Tik Tok is to blame for this Trader Joe's Brazil Nut craze n I've dabbled in the whole line n sacrificed my body's skin routine for the sake of this post. I'm quite sure this is the actual scene of Trader Joe's across the country when u see other folks on ur TL discover the drop! This Brazil-ness only drops about twice a year for the summer. Last year, I was only able to get the scrub becuz folks seem to wanna hoard n over buy to resell a $6 jar for $20-100, crazy right. This year I was able to get my hands on the full collection to include the added newbies of the candle n body wash. I wanted the whole experience to see what the hype is about since @blackgirlsintraderjoes swears by this as a holy grail. I will spare yall the ingredients n blah blah blah. I will also skip over the general info u can pretty much find via google n other reviews to seduce u with the "butter of divine-ness n this smells like a carribean dream when u flip the top" shyt. In a nutshell **pun intended** this is dubbed to be the Bum Bum Cream dupe. I can totally agree with that. TJ's is a lighter n cheaper version of the cult classic Bum Bum. If u like caramel, vanilla n hints of pistachio u can't go wrong with either one. I've read some folks talk about this helps with cellulite due to an extract of an ingredient we can't even pronounce lol n I think that's taking it a tad far to sell us on! Scrubs are my favorite part of shower routines. TJ's Brazil Scrub is finely crushed to where u get a gentle exfoliation n matching scent to the butter. I do have about 3 jars of this becuz I apply liberally n I can appreciate the oils that ooze from this too. Random: the pic reminds me of cream of wheat lol The body wash is new to the collection n I'm always in favor of a pump! The consistency is lightweight n the scent is there but it's not as strong as the scrubs n butters. If u are like me n love a lather...u gonna need more than just a few pumps to get u looking bubbly. My Review: As a body bathing con-uh-sewer, I had no expectations going into this giving the price point n needed to see if this lived up to the hype. For meeeeee....I will not be press to re-up nor fight anyone over this n I dmn sure ain't paying the 5 re-sellers doin (they wrong for that). Yes, the scent is giving "pack a bag for the beach" but what it ain't giving is..."let me tip the bellhop as he drags my bags to our exclusive VIP hotel room with the swim up feature" No M'aam!! Maybe I missed something or my body is just conditioned to natural products. The body wash...meh! The scrub was the star. The butter was sub-par at best. The candle is best used when the power goes out. I love to have a full production when it comes to bathing cuz I take time with myself. The butter has like a film of some sort that sits on the skin n u gotta work too hard to rub it in vs it melting into the skin. I do not like working hard for my money **cue soft life** and it's not even about the price becuz I've had bath products from target with more moisturizing properties for under $15. To claim it acts as a firming cream n reducing cellulite is laughable! If u believe that...please subscribe n donate to my crowd fund in support of an instant FUPA removal with 2 snaps n a circle with a nose wiggle from a genie. Becuz I've tried both TJ's and Bum Bum, I can honestly suggest u pay the 5 n just go for the real thing becuz the scent will last longer n the butter is thicker n feels better applying. I don't like the sticky feeling of either of these tho! While the cost of gas is more than the refund of it alone, I'll make it work lol. Using it alone u will NOT be moisturized so I'll be adding a body oil/serum before the butter. I also think TF Bitter Peach would pair well w/this scent. This collection will definitely go in the heaux bag n not something of daily use. MMMmmmmMeh!! Yall can have this. I can foresee TJ's offering other summer scents in the future tho n we'll sice those up too lol. Sorry laydeez...I gotta bow out of this club. Yall enjoy yall synthetic sheen cuz it dmn sure ain't no glow lol. Have yall tried this line? Let me know ur thoughts in the comments.

This is merely an appreciation post for the mule lover in u and apparently me. As my style is evolving, I look to investing in timeless pieces n if I dip into luxury brands, please believe the purchase will withstand the test of time n transcend beyond whatever the current trend could be. I grabbed these from Neiman's about 2 yrs ago. I actually chased them down becuz they went on sale from $750 to $300 n it's hard when ur shoe size is an 8 (I get 39-40's) so u gotta act fast. This shoe is everything a gal can dream of when she's going for a simple yet effective look. I appreciate the adjustable buckle to feel secure while walking. If I am being totally honest....I haven't much worn these n can count on less than a hand these sliding across cement. I just don't wanna crease them lol. Is that how guys feel in Jordan's hahaha. They are such works of art n the structure of them makes me wanna keep em in pristine condition. When I do wear them, they pair well with jeans n even the most basic outfit is elevated to effort in these. Yall know pointy toes can do no wrong in my eyes but don't be fooled...these are NOT to be walking a mile in...trust me-I know! After a while it'll cut into ur foot near the front **ouch** Other than that...I'm totally satisfied :) Revisiting these pics for a post is making me wanna bring em out n take em for another spin!

I am deathly afraid of WHITE!! Not becuz I feel like it adds ten pounds on me but I am waaaay too self-conscious wearing the angelic shade n tip toe around ketchup puddles. When I came across this beauty in Nordies, it was totally off a whim. I thought it was off a sale rack n took it with me to the dressing room where the magic happens. This is the feeling I need to have when a dress just feels RIGHT!! The plan comes together beautifully when u toss it on n already ur thinking what will go with the outfit n where you'd wear it to n I just KNEW I was gonna leave with it one way or another. I have always been a fan of Free People so I'm not surprised how this Charlie Long Sleeve Shirtdress blessed my body. This cotton dress has a bloused sleeve effect which I love (in case ur insecure with flabby arms) and it lightweight to give u a flow as u walk. FP does run big n while I got a size M, I could've easily went down to a S becuz its loose fitting so just know a L will swallow u up. The belted sash it comes with did this no justice so I kicked it up a notch with my own belt. Yes, white is a clean slate to pair with any color but for Whimsical Couture style story, I wanted neutral-ness so the main focus could still be the dress . It keeps the look-mature! I caught these shoes on sale at Nordy Rack (both under $50). The simple details u don't pay attention to are the rows of buttons. I left them as is for the peek uh boo leg action. The best part of this dress is...it's not see thru lol. It's lightweight yet it's a lot of material. I felt whimsical wearing it. Think of how an outfit makes u feel: This dress made me feel like I'm suppose to frolic amongst a green pasture or fields of flowers as I skip n twirl during a sunny day. This look can also transition u beyond summer. I am a believer of white AFTER Labor Day **shrugs** You'll be sure to stay breezy in a shirtdress. It's a romantic style to wear off the shoulder as an option as well. Do NOT wait to wear this for a special occasion n toss it for day or night, even if it's a random stroll near the waters. Let the winds gently kiss u in this dress n tickle ur fancy as u flow thru the city streets gracefully and whimsically!!

So long to May n Helloooooo June!! We are halfway thru the year n I feel like I'm just getting my footing-sorta; with juggling work n life balance. I know we typically consider this 2nd quarter, I am excited taking it day by day. A fresh month brings on new beginnings n do overs. School is almost out n Summer is lurking. What's on the agenda... I have some shindig's to attend this month for sure but I definitely will be spending this weekend utilizing my Book'd n Busy Planner to organize my life this month. From balancing bills to (learning to) curve my spending, I definitely NEED to maintain "my books" as a handy assistant. Am I outside? Yes...partially lol. Yall know I am not press to be everywhere n do everything. Shyt is just too expensive to even breathe these days! I do plan on being the DMV-er I am n enjoy fellowship'n with friends n crabs. May hit a few brunch spots here n there n a few road trips yonder to maybe WV or something...who knows. My Sip Trips are still on n popping. As an early riser, I am down for the drive n will travel for caffeine so keep the suggestions comin. My pre-summer project is to revamp my balcony since its such a sanctuary for my sunrise sessions. I find such peace n tranquility perched on the porch lol. My sister does this thing with carving intentional time for family n I am looking to do the same. The pandemic really put a pause on things n I don't want to keep being the distant family member. I will hip yall on something I have up my sleeve...I plan on doin a Summer Sabbatical where I take a pause break from social media n totally pour into my blog. Yall know I'm shy soooo I'll do an "intro" kinda video with more of an explanation. I'm nervous n excited n I gotta shut off the noise from these apps to focus n fast for direction. I know life feels like its moving fast n u may be going thru some thangs where u feeling left behind. Let go of all the things of yester-month n dust urself off to get back in the game for June. Pencil in some time to recharge n reset becuz it's imperative u take care of YOU!!

I hope everyone enjoyed the extended days off work granted by this Memorial Day Holiday. I was enthralled in the love of family n reflection all weekend n made it my business to live in the moment n not on the phone. It felt really good!! My sister's visit kicked off my Friday. I had missed my window of missing traffic so stayed on my side n we had sisterly time at dinner. Of course I started my Saturday off with what I love best...Sip Trips!! Lately, my trips have been to my default of Starbucks but u can catch up to my coffee hops- here . A moment to self is needed when prepping for a fun filled weekend. I gotta get mentally centered to take on the day n it's like meditation in a cup when I can do what I love in snapping pics n sips. Becuz of the holiday, I sorta had a schedule but leave some room to be spontaneous n I ended up doin a solo lunch at the harbor cuz the weather was perfection!! My favorite part was making my rounds with Toot in tow for my Sunday. He came along as my plus one for my coffee date n then he enjoyed himself moon bouncing for a kids party. Since we were close by, my stepdad was on the grill so we swung pass. That was our spontaneous moment of the day lol. It was my lucky day stumbling upon a reunion of siblings I hadn't seen in years. It was an emotional moment as we laughed n cried from stories of growing up n crazy times in the house. I like to use my 3rd day of the extended weekend to recoup n recharge in preparation for the week. Totally didn't redo my balcony as intended so that will be saved for the next pay period. It's my day to catch up on TV or being entranced in marathons of Twilight Zone, 227 or docs on Max, Hulu or Netflix. While Summer doesn't officially start until June 21st, this holiday is definitely a pre-summer kickoff as schools prepare for summer breaks n vacations get secured. It's NOT my favorite season n if I could skip to Fall I would. What I am gonna enjoy despite the heat is grilled foods and crabs!! How was yall Memorial Day Weekend? Ready for Summer? Let me know below.

Cheers and Celebrations to the endless sacrifices we do to bring life into the world. My kids father's hate when I tell this story but...I almost diiiiiied. Not once but twice!! Yup...I had an emergency c-section and was put to sleep for Mason n with Toot...I almost died from the exhaustion of...well...he knows who he is. By the grace of gawd...I'm stiiiiiiiillllll here. I hope yall have enjoyed this week's Muva's Day Edition as I've shared the joys of motherhood n the...well...other side we don't highlight much on. Hopefully this weekend is filled with love n gratitude as we celebrate many mom's and mom-like's becuz those who have been motherly do count. I know this is a time where the holiday can be a grim reminder for those who've lost moms, experienced loss of kids and....yea. Take time to relax, relate n release....brrrreeeeve mama!! These travel tins from LeneNicole's are perfect to unwind in. The plan for me is to...book an overnight stay somewhere n light these babies up after a spa treatment. I ordered a few from the Mother's Day Collection that will soothe the senses. Yall should know I am extreme fan of this brand (and owner) so do urself a favor n treat cho self. Take a break from trying to figure out what's for dinner or contemplating play Uber to these kids n let the hardest choice to make be what scent to add to cart. Enjoy the weekend Laydeeeeez and Happy Mothers Day!!

On today's Muva's Day Edition, Imma get my Happy Mother's Day post out early becuz this wknd will be a blackout to whatever I feel like doin n whatever my babydaddies got planned-which is pretty much nothing any different than a regular day lol. I don't mean to toot my own horn but umm...**lays on the horn extra hard** BEEEEEEP BEEEEEEEP!!! Picking the right dads is important in goin half on a baby with-remember...our body our choice lol. While I've been blessed into motherhood twice over, I am even more blessed 3 times over with their dads. We have a great co-parenting dynamic and I appreciate how they've always affirmed me on and surrounding Mother's Day. Parenting is a team effort n as a Muva of boys, I had to learn the male species is just....different. Team No Coddle was pretty much born when Mason turned 5 becuz I would get so much male advice on what's to come as the growing pains of boys to men. Now my sweet innocent angel's will always get the nurturing of mama's love n the cure for sickness with mama's kisses but they knoooow I'll take it here n bring it there **hands raise up n come down n backhand smack motion** when needed. I already KNOW I have big boys who are all legs. They were both born weighin 6 lbs n being 24 inches long. They are boys in every sense of the word **eyeroll** which is anything opposite of my dainty-ness! But they are gentle with me. Team No Coddle Academy starts at the tender age of 5 becuz once them front teeth fall out, all that cute is OVER!! Becuz I lost my mom so young, I looked back realizing my brother was only 14 n I set out to prepare them wit the basics as best as I can in case anything ever happens to me. I want my boys to be self-sufficient enuff to take care of themselves becuz anything can happen to any of us as parents these days. Preparation n being in position will serve them well. I take pride in affirming Mason of how responsible he is for his age. He beams with joy as I brag on him n feeds his ego (take note to feed their ego's laydeez) which motivates him even more. Pouring into my boys is important becuz men need their self-esteem boosted to take on the world. Toot is at the I wanna do it all age n when I tell him he's doin a good job he be cheesing sayin THANX. I wanna build their self-worth in house by way of talkin to the King's in them. Their feelings of accomplishment will (or should) motivate them in other avenues. The joy of boys is the ability to understand the male species n insight to their natural wirings. It's quite interesting to see how their personalities shape over the years. My boys are funny AF (my side) and I had to learn to not baby them as I'd like which would be a detriment to their well being in society (I will not take it there this post) but I can assure u aside from some laziness (typical of male species) I am the only feminine being in our households. I remember when Mason was little n being a cry baby...I said stop crying like a B-I n his faced dried up so quick lol. He was more so shocked n asked if I was callin him a bytch (I only said B-I) LOL!! So I can understand how women get in their masculine for dual roles as single parents annnnd I can also tell when boys don't have men in their lives (I ain't talkin bout nothing outside of being born to be) but again...I ain't goin there on the influence of being too much of a mama. It's oh so fulfilling to see what love has created to walk amongst the world. I joke a lot about motherhood but I am mama bear to the core. I take it seriously to be the example of a woman I'll allow them to date n marry one day. They say a man tends to date women w/traits of his mama which means her azz BET NOT even think to meet me half azz. Ask my brother, lol, I've only liked ONE of his chicks n she's currently my sister in looooove. Mama's intuition sweetie **pats head** I am confident to know if anything happens to me tomorrow, my boys will be well taken care of n will grow up to make me proud cuz mama ain't raise no heaux!! Happy Muva's Day

The definition of a woman of leisure is one who doesn't earn a living on her own which leaves them to have time to do things for pleasure. I can assure u I am not that-by definition. While I do have contributions to sponsor my leisurely activities haha, I do not rely on those blessings solely to maintain the lifestyle. When I mention being a Laydee of Leisure, it's promoting free time to do activities that enhances individual behavior along with ur personality n attitude. GET A LIFE!! In a nutshell. I could totally end the post there but that would be too easy. Our culture has become littered with women who are uninspired, struggling with their love lives, tired from overly working n lowkey depressed. The blessing in having to sit our azzez down during a pandemic was forcing us to face sitting in stillness surrounded by 4 walls. It can be ugly facing what we tend to ignore becuz we busy on the move allllll the tiiiiime. What has become of my life!! A woman that carves out time for pleasure is a woman that creates space for inspiration, connection and love. -Tonya Leigh, School of Self-Image Importance of leisure is to keep stress low and improve ur quality of life. It would something worth making time for to combat depression (I ain't no doctor so don't quote me). This is why I don't be in no rush when I move. I'm not power walking, I ain't driving fast nor running red lights to get to my destination. I allot time as needed. I wanna take it all in n smell the roses. I carve time out for my #SipTrips n window shopping is meditation along with blogging as an outlet. Note: NAPS are included in leisure time lol n if ur within my age group, it's basically mandatory lol. Qualities of Leisure: making intentional time choosing something meaningful being at peace explores fresh ideas jolts creativity physically active (I ain't bussing no sweat but I am movin) Taking control of myself in the moment allows me to avoid the state of constant tension n lets me freely relax to engage in the mystery of life becuz I am understanding of the unknown. This is another reason why I like eating out vs takeout n lingering after a meal so I can be present. I take long luxuriating baths listening to Jazz, R&B or podcasts....I've even listened to elevator music in the morning becuz its soothin n away from chaos online. Free time away from the responsibilities of being a mom n pausing from work is relaxing. I can even enjoy a day of NOTHING n not feel guilty becuz we need rest to rejuvenate n reset. I've become more impactful thereafter n powerful after making this connection. It feels amazing!! Challenge urself to take up to 30 min a day for pleasure-no agenda n goals but just to enjoy that piece of time. It could be meditating, resting ur eyes, people watching, brisk walk-something!

As much as I wanted to avoid this, I couldn't ignore the random thought n energy to do such a post. I couldn't do a Mother's Day themed week without acknowledging how bitter sweet this holiday is for those who ARE moms yet lost their own. Mourning is personal n the duration of time it takes is on how u process it. As an outward expression u cry, celebrate life through memorials or find support groups. Grieving is a tad different. It's more emotional n as my mama been gone for over half my life now, I've done more mourning than grieving. My grief tends to come in random waves, holiday's are rough for me n during a time where I should be more accepting of being celebrated as a Mom, I force myself to not hide n put on a smiling face for my kids. I don't ignore the need to feel n recognize the need to be to myself n go mute when I have unexpected sadness or feel overwhelmed by emotions. But let me share how suffering from a lost one is inevitable n how I continue to get confirmations; God is so real.... So yall know I had an AMAZING time at the JODECI concert this past what...Feb! What I haven't shared (until now) is an encounter that left me shooketh n basically crying after a brief encounter with a stranger. Ok so BOOM...after the concert at MGM, I'm in the concession line (which I almost skipped on) n this lady is in front of me. She turns around n notices my shirt. We chuckle n chat on how we've had a great time n the nostalgia of it all then she jokes on how I'm too young to have been outside in their heydays (so true) then says "I bet yo mama knows tho...call n ask her how much fun it was back in those days". My laugh quiets down to a smirk n she still in joke mode repeating to call her. I shake my head no w/a smile n then she turns back around. Not even 60 seconds later, she turns back to me n says...Ur mom did a great job with u n I'm so sorry, I got the feeling ur not able to call ur mom n for that I apologize. Now we both standing in line as she consoles me cuz we both in tears, lol. We had more of an emotional convo but I'll keep that close to my heart. Those moments remind me, there are certain beings that will be sent to u to connect to the spirit world to communicate. There was such a presence felt from hugging her after a random encounter that's unexplainable. It was such a profound experience n I knew it was real. I honestly have no rituals nor visit my mom's grave (unless accompanying my brother n stepdad) becuz I always feel her in some way or form during grieving times. I have dreams of my mama when my real life has uncertainty or when I go dark n not wanna be bothered there's a sign she's with me. The validations of synchronicities help me cope with grieving. When I was walking on eggshells pregnant wit Toot, there would be butterflies that would follow me. One time I had one gently land on my leg n flutter a few times before flying off. I've had a hummingbird get close to my face to where I was too paralyzed to swat it away. I've been on walks to where there's not nere wind around n grass is moving. This has taught me to be present in life n intentional with not overly looking for my mama to pop up becuz trust me, I be mad to wake up when she's in my dreams. If I'm lookin to feel her, I'll watch First Wives Club-one of her favorite movies or learn more about her from those left behind to tell me infamous Nee-Nee stories. My grandma has tons of them! For those of yall who silently grieve or mourn out loud, I know u TRULY understand where I'm coming from. I am emotional enuff after getting thru this post so I'll end it here <3

I've been a mother for 16 yrs now and I am thankful for the community n tribe I've accumulated to have helped me along the way. I am grateful to have the many gems dropped of those who've been here before me. I have taken those n kept it in mind throughout my journey. One thing we don't talk about outside the beauty of motherhood is our roles beyond being a MOM. I can recall when I lost my mojo after Mason. I was home holding this crying baby without a clue on what to do. The hospital ain't send me home wit no handbook n I can totally understand how postpartum can takeover. We sacrifice n lose ourselves as moms due to the overwhelming pressures n duties of motherhood, so who are you beyond the role of being a mom? It's important to nurture urself n maintain ur passions so u don't lose ur own identity which is lost in the abyss of mothering. I used to overcompensate n have mom guilt becuz I would work so much and had to rediscover life by making some decisions to put myself first. I see it with yall allllllll the time! u wearing urself down for the sake of these kids n have the attitudes of putting ur kids first as if we getting some first prize gold metal of some sorts. We put everything in our life on hold to where our love life suffers cuz u busy trying to get ahead at work, take on extra stress of education to boost urself in the career field while juggling loving up on ur kids then u look up n they end up being teenagers n get their own social life where they don't give a dmn about chew!! I be like wayment...I done cleaned up after ur ooool' funky azz all this time, missed out on vacay's n depleted leave n this the thanks I get lol. Phk these kids!! I had to pull myself out the rut. As long as he got the basics...he'll be aight. All that my kid will want for nothing shyt is not a motto for me cuz I understand the Power of NO . While I do know we made the choice of being moms, there's a way to find balance growing up with our kids n having a life of our own. Challenge urself to step outside ur mommy role to rediscover what YOU love becuz once u become an empty nester, how will u transition into not being needed as much. I would hope u wanna clip them wings one day n the way time flies, it'll be sooner than later. As a mom of two sons, its so funny how I can anticipate going from mommy to ma with the experience of Mason n learn new tricks with Toot. These kids will love u just the same if u pursue ur interests outside of them n if nothing else it makes motherhood that much better when u can come home fresh from a spa day n well rested to continue being the bestest mom ever. It's imperative I take a pause from being a mom so I can come back renewed n be a greater mom to my babies. Who are you beyond being a mom? What passions have u put on hold n how long u gonna let em collect dust? Let me know in the comments.

Are we surprised the Slingback Slayer is back again **cue evil laugh** of course not. How cool is this contrast between loafer in pumps right. I am falling more in love with a subtle black n white combo n had these on the wishlist for a few months. These JC's will take u from 9 to 5 n beyond!! These come in 3 shades n I went with "Black Box White" by default. I did order Size 8.5 becuz Jeff can run big n I've ordered from this brand enuff to gauge the size according to style. These will definitely polish a look n I'll be sure to keep yall updated when I toss these on with slacks n a black/white blouse. As I was admiring these beauties...I took a closer look n felt a little DayJahVoo. I knew I seen these from somewhere...they remind me of something...I just can't think of what it is.... I have been on a rooooooll with these dupes eeeeh!! I remember I seen these last year n didn't think nothing of it given the **gulp** price. But these Miu Miu's come in the same shades but the difference is the detail of a penny in the loafer (which is so cute cuz I used to do that in elem to mine haha). So how'd I do with this dupe? Anything pointy toe AND kitten is a seller for me. I haven't taken these babies for a spin just yet to attest to comfort but I'll be sure to update cha' when I do.

I have clearly been under a rock as I've missed the initial frenzy for these Bottega Veneta Drop Earrings. They've been all the rage since last summer n yall still loving em cuz they've been holding it down in SOLD OUT status with every restock. Imagine my surprise when I was randomly browsing n caught a dupe. Behold... BoTayGuh Feneta **cue red carpet gasp** LOL!! I enjoy luxury like the next person n while I budget it in or more than likely catch it on sale...I am picky how I shop n for me, it gotta make sense. I am not a trendy shopper n don't care to run to the store after a Kardashian or what's the other IT girl name...**googles** oh yea...Bella Hadid. I cannot justify budgeting the cost of shoes for these earrings. I am a studs lover n would need to permanently pierce my ears with these to miss a meal for drop earrings. I've been in dupe mode lately anyways n doin a "Battle of" in choosing this or that: Jimmy Choo vs Tory Burch Prada or Nada I can appreciate a good dupe when needed, there's another one- here -as well n for the price u still save n pay less than the tax on the originals lol. The chunky earring craze is back so it's fun to have an affordable option to partake. I like the vintage-esque style of drop earrings n I can't say I'd never splurge on designer jewelry (which is basically costume) u just gotta do what fits best with ur lifestyle. I also keep my Amazon Storefront updated as well if ever u wanna browse some finds: I think dupes are good ways to test out how you'd like it before making the investment...like a trial run! That's why my designer shoes are flats n kittens lol cuz I know dmn well I'll over wear em like my Chloe slides , I am looking to invest in another pair (despite the price hike). So what do ya think? Do u bypass designer to go for the dupes n how do u pick what to splurge on? Let me know in the comments.