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This weekend's #SipTripSaturday was suggested by my good friend Taj. She owes me a coffee date here...so good thing I was able to preview it beforehand. This spot is located in the Mosaic District in Virginia. If it just so happens to look familiar, it's becuz it falls under the Dolcezza franchise for gelato. I've been to the one in City Center DC n a kids scoop was perfection to satisfy the sweet tooth. Luckily for me, I just so happen to be in the neighborhood awaiting Nordies to open. This spot is less than 10 min from Tyson's so timing was perfect. Although there's so much to do in the Mosaic District **whispers n points to Target across the way** starting the day off in Mom + Pop's was refreshing. I love smaller cafe's becuz it's intimate n homey inside. The staff welcomed me with a smile n was patient as I debated my order. The sniffs of fresh baked goods lingered throughout n I settled on a Dulce de Leche latte. This was a smooth cup of coffee n the right amount of sweet. From their website, "We offer at least 4 single origin coffees and 1 decaf coffee, receiving fresh roasted beans every Wednesday and featuring 2 different brewing methods. For those on the go we serve a coffee of the day brewed on a Fetco brewer, and for those with a little more time, we offer 4 single origin coffees using a Chemex coffee brewer, delivering a more nuanced, full body coffee". Aaaaah...it makes sense! They find the right roasting level to achieve the sweet chocolate notes with a hint of hazelnut. Will I repeat the visit? Yes!! I can plan a full day here esp if u wanna people watch. Definitely check them out: Mom + Pop for an exquisite combo of espresso n ice cream.

15 Jan: National Hat Day Now this is a day I can get wit...hats! We love to wear them to hide chaos underneath. For years growing up, I thought LL Cool J had his kangol glued to his scalp n well shocker-after he started going without, I wanted him to go back! I clearly learned hats serve more than just one function. Did u know...the original hat version was made of straw? It was for weather protection n ceremonial functions. While there are many styles n types of hats we adorn our crowns to make statements with, we tend to wear many hats throughout our daily life. We swap hats from the time we rise to the time we set n some hats are heavier than others. What's interesting to witness is how we manage those hats. When I'm at work, my co-worker hat is strong. I take nothing personal in the work office becuz I just wanna get it done n go home to change into another hat. My mom hat can be floppy around the brim. Having two boys...hell...my shyt be cocked to the side at times. It's my most prized hat to grace my noggin tho. My After Hours hat needs to be dusted off haha but juggling many hats for us can be overwhelming. Being the friend, confidant, parent, employee or employer...like dmn u can easily blow ur top at any given moment trying to hold it down on ur head n not allow a gust of wind to blow it off. Sheesh!! You ever notice the difference in a man's cap vs women's? Men caps seem to be more structured n firm. I like em cuz the fedora's be stiff. Men also seem to take their hat grabs more seriously lol. While they get fitted, I've always just seen a hat that catches my eye n take it then worry about adjusting it to fit later n making it work. I love extravagant hats that make bold statements which is why I love to shop vintage n my hat collection is a range from turbans to fascinators becuz it adds pizazz to an outfit. Wearing a hat used to symbolize authority n power becuz it covered ur head n held ur thoughts so changing it meant changing ur opinions (refer to story above). Whether u celebrate #HatDay with an ode to fashion, social status or religious reasons; wear them proudly. Where them hats in honor of whomever u hold dear to ur heart. Happy National Hat Day!!

Not sure if yall notice buuuut...I am not much of a jewelry person. I'd rather decorate with costume jewelry of the sorts but nothing from an actual jewelry store. My dad is quick to tell u the story on how when I was little, he got me an expensive watch. I remember it too. It was Minnie Mouse watch with leather red straps. Not sure how it broke but I mean...I was like 10-gimme a break, sheesh! Ever since he hooped n hollered bout this expensive broken watch n kindly-randomly reminds me, I've never been interested in the hype of jewelry. Fast forward to aging gracefully and learning the value of all the things we find joy in....here we are. I am growing up. I just got on the Apple Watch train a few years ago n love it. It's fun swapping out the bands n take it from casual to dressy. Even that look needs a break. When I seen this beauty at Nordstrom , the full price tag ($350) had me putting it in my wishlist last summer. I always peeked in to check on it which meant I knew I wanted it. So imagine my surprise when Nordies wanted to bless me after the holiday's to put it within my reach. The price dipped down to $230 and with the strength of gift cards, this baby was coming hooooome to mama!! Merry Christmas and Happy Birthday to me. This Clock Watch Bracelet is soooo gorgeous in person. Totally worth the sale price! It's currently sold out at Nordies (keep an eye out for restocks tho) and I found some available at Bloomingdale's and Tory Burch site (you'd prolly need to search the closest stores to ship to u). I love the details of the watch n quality time piece. I am a fan of their accessories n have a growing collection of their earrings n bracelets. You'll be seeing more of this beaute as arm candy. **The best part of online shopping is getting CASH BACK with Rakuten . Definitely sign up if you haven't already n enjoy cash back from purchases. FYSA: Bloomingdale's is 6% and Tory's is 2%**

Don't think becuz I'm here and there with #SipTripSaturday visiting local coffee shops, I don't keep some Javy on me when I am away from home (or in the office). My original review is here . This coffee concentrate is a life saver when ur in a pinch. I do not go to cafe's everyday and for weekend getaways this will always be on hand becuz...ya never know when n if u can get to a nearby coffee shop. Caramel is my default flavor!! Over the holiday's I used it over eggnog but now I can go back to almond milk. U can also use water but I like my coffee's creamy!I will admit...these are perfect for cold brews!!! Use Code KISHA04118

I don't know if I'm secretly psycho or simply enjoy superstitions but I get excited about Friday the 13th. As a horror lover, the marathon of Crystal Lake goers mesmerizes me as if it's my first time n I don't know the fate of horny teens that bump into a hockey mask'd killer. The black cats get avoided n we steer clear of ladders right? or just me!! Nonetheless, welcome to the first unlucky date of the year. The psychology study-er in me is fascinated how easily influenced we grow up to believe in superstitions or associate this date as a bad omen. I do believe the phobia is starting to fade as these new kids don't play into it or they just don't care aka fearless!! Does that mean buildings will add the 13th floor? Whether u play into the myth or not, u can't deny a few tragedies that have happened on this deathly dark day liiiiike Tupac who died Sept. 13th and eleven years ago on TODAY (Jan. 13) a cruise ship crashed off the coast of Italy, which killed 30 people. Take advantage of the sales that celebrate this day; Wendy's gives out free fries for #Fryday n tattoo shops love to take advantage of the quirky "holiday". If ur wondering...the next time this happens is in October so u KNOW it'll be litTy becuz we celebrate all things spooky for that month. Also, feel free to bookmark this post as a reminder we have a large asteroid on the way. It'll fly close enough to our planet where we can visibly see it without a telescope (per NASA). On April 13, 2029, Apophis will be within reach n I'm hoping it won't be cloudy that night. Oh...and if ya feeling lucky, don't forget to play the Mega Millions which is over a BILLY!! I gotta remember to put my bid in and I won't be stepping on any cracks or splitting the poles on the way into the store!! Happy Friday the 13th **cue evil laugh**

10 Jan: National Houseplant Day Well, Well, Well...who would've thunk it. Me? Lil ol' me INTO plants. I never seen this coming but life comes at cha fast. I used to despise flowers becuz they never lasted a week n I always thought it was a waste of money. My stepma had a whole sunroom full of plants n I always admired how she took care of em. I just figured I had a black thumb of doom! Fast forward to the pandemic n a random nudge landed me in Home Depot n Lowe's shopping plants. I had no idea what I was doin! I grabbed my first two plants (above) n watered them once a week. What else did I have to do right? We had nothing but time during lockdown. No rhyme or reason for getting these 2 breeds other than...the price was under $25 so I didn't feel like it would be a total waste if they didn't make it. I am happy to repot..I mean report...almost three years later...they stiiiiiill here! Gannon is such an OG, I've since created another 2 from that one! Monstera's grow out of control n it's been the most repotted. Bernadette (peace lily) is still hanging in there; same pot n all. From 2 plants to **counts around the house n remembers to include the bathrooms** ...well...it's a mini jungle in here. I totally love the homey-ness plants have added to the home. Learning how to grow em n thrive has been lessons learned. We've had our ups n downs with a few losses here n there. I get asked how do I maintain n grow. It's honestly trial by error. I've read up in plant groups on tips n tricks but ultimately it's learning ur plants. I take the time to pay attn to them dmn near every day. I wake up n play jazz then after my morning routine, I make my rounds. I mist them n talk to them. As I'm chatting, I am wiping em down to keep away pesky spider mites n dust n pruning as needed. Some need more attn than others but you'll know. Bernadette gets sad (droops) when she needs water and soon as I give her water she pops back up. Monstera's have been my fave, Birds of Paradise closely follows. I have big ones n mini ones. If u feeling fancy u can clip one n propagate to watch em grow roots n plant em. U can go almost 2 wks before watering n they grow fast. Typically plants will go dormant in colder months but the fun part of learning ur plants is...moving them around. I switch up the placements to monitor which spot they like best. Snake n ZZ plants are perfect for beginners! I water those once a week n that's being friendly. They thrive off being left alone as much as possible. I love watching them grow from nothing. It's fascinating to see a sprout n I wish I could do a time lapse to watch it unfold. Enjoy the slideshow of a love story My kids are future plant daddy's haha. Mason maintains two plants in his room that surprisingly survives the mystic odors of a teen boy's space. Toot loves to water n mist them when he's over. He drenches the leaves overly spraying n making a mess! In addition to plants, I love getting flowers as an accent to sprucing up the home but mainly brightening the mood. Those I know are short lived but I can stretch em to at least a week n half. Plant life has become a lifestyle and has clearly spilled into my clothes!! That's how u know its real lol. It's made a difference n my life n has become a stress reliever. To stop n be reminded to "smell the roses" in a fast pace life of hustling n bustling; I enjoy pausing to care for my plants n nurture them. U will truly get what u put out. If ur good to them, they are good to u. If u are watering too much you'll notice gnats. Don't be afraid to get ur hands dirty. There's magic in repotting n running ur hands through the soil. I've learned to let go even after growing attached to my beloved leaf babies. Cycle of life right? Nothing lasts forever. Green life has been setting the tone for the mood under this roof. I've created a tranquil n peaceful space. I was already a homebody but it's next level. If I'm lucky, I catch my plants "dance" (move to grow) n it tickles me. Like wow, I'm actually a #PlantMom n it makes me feel good. It's a hobby that caught me by surprise n I've been welcoming this newfound gift that came from a pandemic curse. So here I shout to all my sprouts...Happy National Houseplant Day!!!

Here we are for another #AmazonFind becuz I randomly scroll n toss in my wishlist until I'm ready to purchase after further reviews. One of the biggest factors in my shopping buys is to make sure I can wear the garment multiple times in different ways. Becuz I love using camo patterns to mix prints AND these are high-waisted palazzo style pants; I just kneeeew I couldn't go wrong with this. They are a HIT!!! Now yall know sizing can be tricky when it comes to amazon shopping. To be on the safe side...I sized up TWICE!! I am typically a size 14 (or 16) n there's been times I'd order my size n it was too small for my thighs or too tight in the crotch area. I ordered these Camo Pants in a size 3XL. These are tall girl friendly n give the perfect drag to sweep the floor without collecting leaves as u walk. U will look like ur gliding as these are light n flowy. If these were any smaller they'd give a peep show to the camel toe. Also, if ur wondering about the top---> here Totally not being an enabler buuuuut yea...these pants are IT n even more IT becuz they come in different patterns n solid colors. Dress em up or down! I chose to dress down n wear em w/chucks since I was making errand runs. The camo pattern is so versatile n I love mixing patterns using it as a neutral. I got multiple looks from these ONE pair of pants so it's totally worth it for less than $25-Cha Ching!!! Camo Couture Recap: Camo Pants $30 Lewk 1: CASLON sweater (nordies) $35 Lewk 2: Leopard Sleeves (amazon) $23 (I got a lightning deal) Lewk 3: Long sleeve turtleneck (amazon) $17 (shown previously) Prepare to be sick of me in these pants!! All 3 Leaks have been fun n got a lot of compliments; one stranger said I looked like a movie star haha....I'll take it. I also update my amazon storefront every so often so feel to browse n take a looky loo. I'm always excited to share what can benefit yall n gadgets to make life easier (i.e. the towel warmer...OMG).

EEEK!! After a holiday hiatus; Sip Trips is back!! I was able to look back at previous #SipTripSaturdays n became extremely proud of myself. I've turned these mini moments of woosah for me into adventures of small n local coffee shops. It's fun looking for cafe's off the grid n outside of the big commercial chains. I love the intimacy n welcoming atmosphere walking in where the staff is attentive and patient. Highlighting the shops I visit have been fun for other coffee lovers to put on their radar if and when they are within the vicinity. It also doesn't hurt to these rendezvous give me a chance to play dress up n Sip n Pose!! For the first featured coffee shop of the year, I found this one in the heart of Richmond's Art District called Lift Coffee Shop . Walking into the shop fits right in with the theme of the block. A plus for me-always, is the locally roasted organic n fairly traded coffees offered. Everything if fresh and made to order with breakfast sandwiches, bagels n paninis. If ever ur nearby after "coffee hours" aka the afternoons, they also offer beer n mimosa's too. Also note, they do have vegan options!! My favorite discovery was walking to the back while waiting for my Lavender Latte n finding an outdoor seating area....I said...oooh...this is gonna be fun! The menu has everything from Brown Sugar Lattes, Mayan Mocha (chocolate, cayenne n dash of cinnamon) n once I seen Lavender; I couldn't pass up on it. I keep reminding myself AFTER to NOT order Lavender becuz in general-it's bitter n strong. I gotta stick to my caramel's n mocha's. Nonetheless it was good. As u can tell (or not), I didn't technically dress for the occasion becuz this pit stop was spontaneous. I am so glad I found this gem (also nearby is a men's thrift shop). If ur in a hurry for breakfast food just note this isn't fast food. I typically love dining IN to force me to slow down n pause with life. U get a chance to take it all in and people watch n really stop to smell the roses. Dining in gives me gratitude n slows the pace of grab n go! I can fully observe how the staffing treats everyone who walks in the door n it's always good to see locals visit n get called by name. I am HUGE on customer service! It's always a Brew-Tiful Day in the neighborhood with Lift Coffee n aside from the cafe, the local shops n entertainment will lure me back in the Spring. So if ever ur passing thru Richmond, VA; definitely stop pass n check them out.

01 Jan: Fresh start and clean slates. It's a year of a reset for the world. It's an exciting time to countdown when the ball drops n entertain the concepts of what we're leaving behind. A new year, new **insert self** as we celebrate the first day of the year. Wow, it only took us 365 days n 52 weeks to get here right lol. Within the last few days or day of, we get reveals. Reveals of new loves, extended love with proposals, upcoming loves with baby announcements and there's an acknowledgement on the circle of life-death where we memorialize those who didn't make it to the new year. There's a whiff of rebirth in the air. We love the tradition of deliberating what we gonna do next or better into the new year. Resolutions are born! The infamous weight loss journey begins. We talk about shedding pounds n gettin rid of dead weight. I love reflecting on the past twelve months. Transitioning through seasons n watching everyone grow and blossom as they come into themselves. Discoveries are had within twelve months. Strength u didn't know u had until the situation presented itself showed u were stronger than u thought. 01 Jan 2023: The 23 will have everyone calling it the "Jordan" year. Whatever he represented to u-so be it n if it motivates u to make the year great; go for it. I stopped doing resolutions becuz I never stuck to em. I always fell off around March-ish. I tend to stick to themes. Taking it day by day n evaluating every few months n what to tweak n hold myself accountable in sticking to the theme. My concept comes to me by the time my personal New Year hits aka Birthday. I don't like rushing it to stamp by 01 Jan. The keynote of my year marinates and will presented in celebration of another year around the sun. I am excited for what is to come. I'm here for all the superstitions, traditions in the name of prosperity n conspiracy theories of the concept of time (New Years used to be March) to keep the minds creative. What u got planned for the year? U taking advantage of activating ur inner Jordan to honor him for the year, lol. Is it a new you or same ol' you n just a new year? Whichever u choose, make it great n welcome to the beginning of the fresh year...with a clean slate.

Annnnd here we are...again!! I speak a lot on "forward thinking" and its becuz the concept of time is moving fast n days are getting shorter. "In the blink of an eye" takes on a whole new meaning with aging. By the time u read this...we will have less than 24 hrs or basically IN 2023-crazy right. I hope u all enjoyed the Christmas holiday or whatever holiday u choose to celebrate. My family enjoyed each other and the best part for me is watching everyone open their gifts. My favorite part of the end of the year is reflecting on the last twelve months. The good n the bad. Celebrating the Wins n acknowledging the L's. The dash in between Jan n December is another notch on life. If we are luckily, we gained an extra year. Unfortunately, some folks don't make it to the end. The unknowns are exciting for me. Enjoying the moment n making a plan with no expectations has been a sight to see (or not). I did a lot of things scared this year. Taking leaps of faith that left me with uncertainty was a challenge. It's hard picking door number 1 or 2 without a peek thru the windows. Turns out, if u trust in the decision and let go n let gawd; it'll work out as its meant to be. I've fully enjoyed sitting in stillness and holding space for peace n tranquility. Recognizing when I needed to pause n acting on it has made a difference in my lifestyle. Not overthinking n just going for the gusto when the iron strikes allows me to enjoy the steps. I can sit here and reflect on how the year started n knowing I stuck to the theme: 2022: Humble for What and got dmn it I'm proud. A year ago I made a decision to decline a job making more money to gain the opportunity to learn a skillset. Folks always think ur crazy to turn down a dollar. I turned it down becuz I knew the opportunity would add value to my resume n that dollar would come back around at a later time. When? I didn't know. I just KNEW it would pay off going off my gut instincts and wisdoms from my elders. That experience led me to what my biggest "Best of 2022" taught me n that was to lead with love n NOT money. We often place too much value on a dollar n chasin the bag! I remember my hustle mode days n being greedy n in the end...I have nothing to show for it n missed memories with family becuz I was always on the grind. The Best of this year taught me to move with good intentions. There is a blessing n being able to have a choice in jobs in itself. The opportunity to work for "less" didn't effect my living in any way. I was able to keep up with the inflation of chicken wings n maintain the light bill-THANK GAWD!! In the end...a full circle moment led me to accepting another position to use the skillset acquired n allowed me to fully stand in my demand of asking price. That dolla I turned down came back two fold. I love promoting the lead with love n good intentions to other becuz I see how what u want can still come to fruition. I sleep well with integrity n knowing I don't do anyone dirty. I am grateful for the lessons n losses of this year. I've gotten better with blogging n honing my craft. Do I want to do this full-time? No! Do I wanna get paid as PT Blogger? Yes. Will I still blog for FREE? Sure. I don't have to walk around n try to see a way to take advantage of every opportunity that comes my way. I hate the ugly side of "networking" which is everyone looks at u with something to gain. Trust gets shaky becuz ur thinking...does this person like me for me or what I can do or get for them...hmmm!! Again, I don't have those thoughts becuz everyone starts with a clean slate until they show me something different. I have no need to be an opportunist nor take advantage of anyone becuz what's for me...is for ME! Feel free to re-read the paragraph above!! Is there anything ur reflecting on from this year? What's your "Best of" ? Closing the door on 2022 has been a blast. Opening the door to 2023 will be even better n I am working on the theme as we speak. I am excited to see seeds previously planted come to fruition. Years of hard work finally paying off. I can't wait to see everyones moment they've been waiting for becuz it's within our reach.

Welcome to December!! Only 3 more Sip Trips left of the year before we roll into 2023 **cue confetti** If you've seen my recent features, you'd know I've been finding coffee spots in Old Town Alexandria. The weather has been cooperating nicely in the DMV so the drive was totally worth it. This spot was recommended by @redlipsandpassports (IG) again n I would've totally missed it becuz I'm typically near the outskirts of old town. Upon walking in, I wasn't prepared for this being an actual multi-purposed spot. It's legit a mini market one one side, cafe in the front and to the far left a whole dining area with a bar. GENIUS!!! The concept is perfect for the locals becuz it's truly a one stop shop for the city lifestyle. The perfect way to describe this market n cafe is...an upscale bodega. I enjoyed sipping the recommended "coconut milk vanilla latte"nearby in the bar area. There were few patrons enjoying their own coffee n pastries. I couldn't pass up posing around the decor. It was such a laid back ambiance. Now don't be fooled by the title of my post. The name of this Old Town spot is called Mae's Market and Cafe. So where does Virginia's Darling come from? It's their nightly dinner party offered with an eclectic mix of small plates n wines from female wine makers. The dinner service is Tues thru Sat at 5p.I would totally come back not just for the coffee but to partake in the dinner party. I am not a drinker but if ever there's a taste testing session, I can handle some social sips there. If ever u need to meet up for coffee dates, I'd recommend this dainty cafe n even if u get creative n have lunch near the parks, u have options in the market section. Grab a picnic basket n walk a few blocks down by the water to retreat for lunch. How about that eeeeeh!!

As a new found coffee lover...well not really new buuuut fully embracing the love for coffee; I must say-it's addicting! I've pretty much worked my way up to having some form of coffee daily in the mornings. When Javy reached out to partner with lil' ol' meee; I couldn't say no!! Full Disclaimer: I had a little helper aka production assistant during this shoot. Toot was the mini director (aka button pusher) and occasionally wanted to make peek-a-boo appearances to be apart of the job. Javy is a coffee concentrate which makes it convenient for custom coffee at home. Becuz this coffee in a bottle is so easy to make, just know it'll make it's way in my travel bag. It's simple to make as u take a splash or two (or 1-2 tsps) n mix it w/milk or water. For my testing to do this review...I used eggnog (video on IG/Tik Tok) n it came out delish!! I tried it a few more times to make sure it wasn't a fluke, lol. Javy is REAL COFFEE and a true #coffeehack becuz it gave me the boost I needed without giving me the jitters. The original coffee flavor didn't get in the way of my eggnog flavor. I am definitely gonna dip into the other flavors available n indulge during #SipTrips at home! Now for the good part...if you've gotten this far-THANK YOU!! To show appreciation for u stopping by n making it to the end; there's a special gift juuuuust for you... Save 20% off with Code: KISHA04118 (or via here)