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Sip Trip Saturday is still on n popping...I am typically doin my infamous "Beautiful Morning" signature walk by 0730a and enjoying time to self for a solid two hours. Within those hours I am posing, people watching n checking in to my socials wit a quick greeting. I prefer my #SipTrip posts to drop by 0900a and as u can see today...eeeh I missed that mark. I have no problem admitting I mismanaged my time these past few days n dropped the ball on getting this weekends feature out on time **cue accountability** n currently typing this from the comforts of my couch **checks clock** One thing I don't want to do is half azz yall so I'm dropping in with a quick note for those who look forward to this space with coffee shop ideas n inspo! I will do better...trust me. These are the joys of content creating...building as we fly. I almost didn't post anything but wanted to show others that while shyt ain't perfect...u can still make it work with what u got. Don't let the comparison to other bloggers n etc keep u from practicing ur craft cuz we ain't got a full production team-I am a one woman band. Get out ur head with overthinking!! I am appreciative of the tribe I've grown who still rocking wit me no matter what-Love yall much!! Sooo look forward to getting back on track for next weekend :D

Yup! U read that correctly...ok well not exactly lol. No amazon drop-YET but I did manage to get out my own Amazon Storefront becuz I get a lot of inquiries on where I shop and I love sharing my quirky finds from there. While I do blindly order n they're either hits or misses, u can click the pics for the hits n see the items listed. I also offer a section for "Bae Bags" in case ur stumped on what to get the man in ur life or for the man who has it all. My "wish list" is pretty much items I am gonna get around to buying...one day...someday!! One of my favorite finds are my "sleeve cinchers" (is what I call them lol) but they are known as sleeve holders . A few years ago, a co-worker put me on with the military version of what they used as boot bands . I thought the concept was so good, I'd use it for my arms for a blouson effect n randomly looked up sleeve cuffs on amazon!! VOILA!! I use these to blouson bout every shirt n jacket I wear esp to show off arm candy. They are comfy on the arms no matter how high u go n not cutting off circulation. You NEED these-for sure!! Once I try whatever's on my wish list it'll move to the photo section cuz I am a visual person n like honest reviews. Plus sizing can be tricky so I have no prob letting yall know my true size n comparing it to my amazon size. Tap in n let me know what u think...tag me if u just so happen to grab something n try it...esp if u like it (or not). Appreciate it :)

Sip Trip Saturday takes us to a mini city in Arlington. I totally found this spot by accident as it was near my job. I wanted to enjoy a cup of Joe before work n decided to take a chance on this roasting spot in Crystal City. Meet... Commonwealth Joe ! I fell in love with their seasonal Honey Bee Latte n enjoyed the scenery which consisted of people watching. Although I've visited this spot numerous times, I stumbled in for this #SipTrip as a Hangover Edition. We had date night on Friday to see Eric Roberson at the Kennedy Center n stumbled into the coffee shop the next morning in our repeat outfits lol. It was fun having guests join me; I know it's not easy getting up bright n early after an eventful night. The welcoming space is modern and accommodating. It's the perfect spot to make ur work space when u need a quick getaway. Just walking in is refreshing and inviting. A specialty they offer is cold brews n kombucha on tap. The art from local artists is also captivating as part of the decor. CWJ was born from a mom n son duo with a passion for roasting in Culpeper, VA n cultivated their love of coffee and grew their craft. This is my 2nd time seeing a huge roaster and I am so curious to the inner workings. I do believe I need to take a quick class on roasting during a Sip Trip-stay tuned lol. I definitely suggest u to stop at Commonwealth Joe's if ever ur in the Crystal City neighborhood by Pentagon City. Their award-winning specialty coffee n cold brew will have u enjoying every sip. They have weekly specials and the staff is always willing to assist becuz I was definitely lost on what to order my first go round. I've tried nothing outside of the seasonal drinks n want anything as close as possible to my fave; Honey Bee Latte, becuz yes...I'll go out my way for this one.

This weekends #SipTrip is sponsored by me lol with a visit to Cafe Du Soleil. I recall this place as a recommendation from my girl Jenn of Redlipsandpassports (IG). I had a coffee date here last year and really enjoyed it. I kept it in my notes to revisit and here I am!! Cafe Du Soleil is nestled in Old Town Alexandria, VA offering organic coffees, fresh baked and French inspired dishes. The atmosphere makes u stay awhile becuz its so comfy and furnished with couches. I skipped the crepe this go round and sipped my Salty N Sweet latte (it's like a white mocha w/pumpkin spice) n did what I did best-Sip n Pose!! I loved the book offerings and the staff was friendly and very accommodating. Speaking of accommodating...they offer a wine club for u lovers and host wine tasting and pairing recipes in the lounge area of the cafe. There's a whole wall of wines and as a newbie in the game, I wouldn't mind stopping in for wine tasting. I will have video footage on my IG (@ballsofbeautyblog) and Tik Tok (@daintylaydee) for more visuals. The weather in the DMV was soooo perfect when I went to visit and it was a good 70-ish degrees. You can walk nearby to the water and park to enjoy the scenery. Yall know I'm up early so by 0900a the town was up n out with walking their dogs and families goin for jogs. Stopping at this local cafe was a good jolt to start my day. I will definitely be back to try more latte flavors and stay a while longer for a crepe. Check them out if ur in the City of Alexandria!!

One of my favorite intentional time to self is utilizing my super powers of forward thinking. It's no surprise time is moving hella fast and whenever I get invites for shindigs I pause to say "lemme check my books" becuz if it's in my books...it's stamped. What's in my bag? You'll always find my Book'd N Busy Planner as my sidekick. It's been keeping me organized for a solid 2 yrs now. What I love about Book'd is how they make planning my life fun with stickers and other inserts that help me pause with the busy-ness to take a glimpse of how far I've come to look back on short term goals and also my budget **cue cringe** During my #SipTrip moments on Saturday's I pull it out and doodle my life for weeks and a month to come. They do have options of an academic planner or if you have more of a life than me...deluxe! okay okay okay...I can't keep the secret any longer...the 2023 Editions are OUT and ready to ship like noooow...EEEEK!!! I am also excited to bring you a code to save on ur order :D PLANNINGWITHBALLS Yessss, be sure to add the code above to checkout to save some monies this holiday season and tag me in your posts upon arrival. I hope it brings u as much joy as it brings me using this planner throughout the year. Also, feel free to share how u use ur planner n carve out time to stay organized n book'd.

Annnnnd we back...another #SipTrip to share with you all who love to indulge in intentional time to self with coffee or simply here to take a peek at the drip **pun intended** This wknd's coffee house spotlight is one nearby n off the beaten path of Occoquan, VA. This hidden gem is the cutest spot n the town has plenty to offer if u ever stop thru. One place you should start is... Grind n Crepe Coffee House. It has been my secret weapon n local go to becuz of the friendly staff n welcoming atmosphere upon walking inside. Aside from the sweet n savory crepes offered, it's the premium coffee's for me! My favorite go to is the Creme Brûlée. It's creamy n sweet! When I'm in a chocolatey mood; S'mores for the win!! I am surprised to see younginz greeting me so early in the morning becuz I'm sure as a teen its a great sacrifice to give up some sleep for work-I appreciate it n give tips for the gesture. After I place my order, I take a seat nearby and someone brings me my cup of love. I've also had a coffee date here recently n indulged in the Nutella n Strawberries crepe which was a delicious addition to my drink. Since I've been here numerous times (I'm so addicted lol), another latte flavor I've tried is Rose and Lavender. Those are more coffee strong w/a hint of flavor. If ur more a fan of the coffee flavors that don't taste like coffee...avoid those! It's a quaint space where I can do some planning n budgeting in peace. It starts getting busy after 0830a when everyone seems to pop in for a jolt of the day. This love affair started during the pandemic when I found this spot. I would sit n sip in the outside patio area and then walk around the empty streets. Well...not too empty when u count the residents walking their dogs. There's just something about breathing in the fresh morning air n slowly sipping Grind N Crepe along them Occoquan Streets . Take in the scenery where you'll have plenty of spots nearby to pose. This spot is a ten across the board. If you are in the area or wanna take a quick field trip...Grind n Crepe won't disappoint.

I had the pleasure of being a guest for The Melanin 360 Podcast !! EEEEK!! It was a grand ol' time to sit beside a host I admire and doin the dmn thaaaang in this communications field of radio. When Jorae called me to chit chat on her show, I wasn't gonna say no. When she told me the topic would be fashion...I definitely couldn't pass it up. The Underground Lab seems to have made me an honorary family member lol. They can't quit me n I love watching them grow into a solid team to include one of my baby daddy's. This episode was a good laugh n kiki. Yall know I am shy n have stage fright on the mic-I am working on it; be patient with me. I appreciate yall for recognizing me in such a way to invite me on ur platforms as a plus one. The love doesn't go unnoticed when you share, DM, like and even mention my name in rooms when I'm absent. I love how yall love me :) The energy keeps me motivated n inspired to keep hitting yall wit more fiyah!! Check me out here and all streaming platforms.

Welp...its that time of year again. Daylight savingsssss time where we fall back n get an hour of sleep. It gets dark early n 7pm feels like 10pm **yawn** my body seems to prep early for this time change becuz a week prior I just feel drained by 6pm. This is all apart of the motions for Fall that excite me. Time isn't the only thing that falls back around this time...I tend to do the same n hibernate. Last year I revealed through my post on Seasonal Depression . It's like I get hyper empathetic n get all the feels that can range from gloom we get without having lost loved ones during the holiday season, loneliness from coming up short from "cuffin season" and random death notices that seem to come frequent cuz erybody ain't gonna make it into the New Year to celebrate with us. It's just so much that goes on, nonetheless, I don't let the lack of sun or somebody's son; keep me from leaning into a community to lift spirits by way of random lunch dates n brunch n keeping the commitment of my #SipTrips for local coffee. This is a short season though becuz the days are running together and it'll be HAPPY NEW YEAR in no tiiiime. During hibernation, I indulge in the stillness n declutter the house. I enjoy binging shows n watching classic movies. I also reflect on the year n the blessings it has afforded me. I remain optimistic for the future n what a fresh year has to offer me. I love change n new beginnings n welcome these luxuries of sanity as we continue to navigate the ways of the world during the midst of inflation, recessions n price hikes on chicken! So for those who also feel like they have foggy days; ur not alone. Listen to ur body when it tells u to rest n sit in silence. This is not just a season for hibernation but also CLARITY.

Happy SaturYAY!!! Welp...the people have spoken n #SipTrips are a HIT!! I must say; it's been my slice of joy after a long week n even more of a pleasure to share with you. My wknd coffee runs have been my mini escapes from the real world n I pause with every sip to fully enjoy the flavor n take it all in while I sit in the moment. The weather forecast is looking to be nice this wknd so it'll be a lot of dropped tops haha so this jumpstart of caffeine will be perfect. I don't know about chall but this week has been heavy! This is becoming a season of loss n with upcoming holidays along with a new year looming; times can get rough n u feel like the world is caving in on ur shoulders. This is why it's imperative to find some intentional time to self to allow urself some breathing room. Sip Trips is where I can pour into myself **pun intended** and exhale to take on the weekend n recharge for an upcoming week. Enjoy a fresh recap of my previous Sip Trips thus far: For the Love of Coffee-Where it all started Wee Bean Coffee Roasters- LaPlata, MD Coffee Underground-Greenville, SC

Ya knoooow, never in a million years did I think I'd ever become THAT adult who'd look forward to a kickstart of her day with coffee. I grew up watching grown folks make a "cup of joe" before work n hear that screeching drip as it sucked out the last drops of water from the filter. They'd pour black coffee in a cup n add basic creamer n a spoonful of sugar-then stiiiiir. As a kid, I wanted to know the fascination of this everyday occurrence at the top of the morning. What is this black liquid of gold these adults keep sucking down. I took a sip one day n was DISGUSTED!! Yuck! It tasted like an oil change-not that I've tasted that either lol but I'll assume if I licked the floors of a mechanic's garage; that would be the flavor! Fast forward to today...I am now THAT adult sucking down coffee yet I actually like mines as less tasting of coffee as possible. How did I get here? It started with frappe's. I would get them while working at the fire dept at night to keep me goin. It was so sweet n crazy ridiculous in calories. After my #WLS I had to fall b n only got frappe's as a random treat every once in a blue moon. My dormant love became rehashed after I had Toot. During maternity leave, I would head on over to my nearby Starbucks on Saturday mornings. My body clock was all out of wack so getting up for sunrise became normal. I would go over n order something hot since it was cool outside. I'd sit out nearby n randomly take pics, scroll my phone n listen to birds chirp. I would notice how rejuvenated I felt after enjoying stillness before starting my day. It was such a mood booster n I wasn't sure if it was the coffee or being kid free. I just knew it was something I wanted to keep doing every weekend. After awhile, it became apart of my lifestyle. A day I looked forward to beyond the novelty of it being the weekend. It has now become a snippet of time to self that brings me joy. I look forward to starting my weekends with getting dressed up to see my Starbucks family. They ALL address me by name n greet me with smiles. There is a calmness in the air when u get up before the crowd to fully enjoy peace. I love randomly talkin to strangers n doing my infamous photoshoots. It's funny becuz on my IG stories, I got in the habit of playing "Beautiful Morning" by Rascals n it's become my signature! Carving out intentional time to self has been a game changer. It's been part of my healing in more ways than one. I know at least once a week, I am going to do something that brings me joy. I escape the responsibilities of just being there for everyone else n recharging for ME. I can regroup and reflect from the week n look to planning ahead. My Starbucks Saturdays has become my way of giving myself permission to be great. Too often I see how many people are stressed n get in the groove of the grind. Time is steady moving n life is gonna life but I can't continue to pour into anyones cup when mine is empty. Never did I ever think...I'd be THAT adult to be up bright n early but here I am. Racing the sun at times n basking in the sunrise. With every sip, I am grateful. With every swirl of the cup, I am blessed. In the moments I take a deep breathe n get lost in tranquility. MmmMMmmMM. I wish everyone could force themselves to experience a newfound love in the manner of what I've found in coffee sipping Saturday's. So ya see, this is more than grabbing a cup of coffee. It's a full dramatic production n guess who's the main character? Meeeeee!!! This is where I promote for folks to get a life or as Rickey says "get chew some business". Be selfish n get lost in urself. I use that time to create content, listen to podcasts, catch up on social media or chit chat. As I've gotten comfy in this routine...I've decided to take my show on the road. Coming Soon...Sip Trips!!

This was an unexpected treat. Why? Becuz I am NEVER in this neck of the woods. Upon such a rare moment, I found this hidden gem nestled away along 301 in LaPlata called Wee Bean Coffee Roasters . For this to be such a quaint spot, the passion is definitely in the coffee n the love doesn't go unnoticed. I am an early bird. I typically like to grab my coffee by 0730a. I am always impressed when I'm greeted with a warm smile as I understand everyone isn't a morning person. I've been here multiple times by now and I must say...EVERY time it's a hug in a smile soon as u enter the door. It's the "little" things that make my day n that would entail great customer service. This is why I prefer smaller businesses. They feel more intimate n homey. Since it was my first time, I had no idea what to get n I was so excited to see the options, I got a bit overwhelmed. I've had the Brown Butter Vanilla (fave), Snickerdoodle and MD Terrapin (caramel n chocolate hazelnut). I've yet to go wrong. U can switch em up as u please like making a macchiato into a latte or coming up w/ur own concoction. What makes them unique from other cafes is they have their own roaster which was neat to see as u can witness the beauty n magic merge in the bar area. This is top notch coffee for sure. If I didn't live so far, it would be my weekend go to. I will go on a limb to say...if ever I'm feeling adventurous they are worth the trip JUST for some coffee. Another cherry on top is the baked goods from local spots....yes...community right. As if the coffee n ambiance didn't already sell me...they offered some delicious macaroons. The creme brûlée was THE BEST macaroon I've had in my life **drools** I have no idea who is responsible for these macaroons of lusciousness but ONE is all u need to satisfy the craving. I've only ever gotten this flavor n S'mores. The CB is still THE one. I savor each bite with closing my eyes n chewing becuz it takes me to another place even for a slight moment. This was a fun surprise as they have a lot to offer. I can tell the locals fully support this spot and take pride in maintaining its care. U can surely taste the quality n organic-ness in every sip. I enjoyed my sip n pose session here n if ever ur in the Southern MD area make sure u stop pass. They have a lot to offer for sure. Next time I go, I wanna take part in the roasting-I think that'll be fun to be apart of the process :)

As we were heading down to South Carolina, along the ride we all tossed out what we wanted to do during the visit. Our main purpose of the visit was to see our beloved Marci but also on the priority list-for me-was to find a local coffee spot while we were staying. I knew I didn't wanna do my default of Starbucks n figured it would be fun to explore a coffee spot I wouldn't be able to indulge everyday. As I'm explaining the idea n context to why I wanna keep up my Saturday tradition, my BD comes up wit calling my sessions "Sip Trips" in the same concept of how Fox 5 DC does their segment called Zip Trips . So now I'm excited. Even more excited we were gonna do it as a family. I am typically solo on my coffee runs becuz I know not everyone is down to get up so early n start their day in the same manner n with such vigor. I start searching coffee shops that would also have decent aesthetics to go along with my poses. After careful research, I decided to visit.... From the time I stepped in, I knew it was a vibe. It's dimly lit and you'll feel like you've stepped into a cozy living room. There's a space for hosting comedy shows, poetry night and local performers. I'm sure if I lived here, it would be my go to. My drink was the Hot Frog (white chocolate n caramel) latte. It was delish!! Another reason I like small n local businesses for coffee is becuz they have higher quality of roasted coffee since it's roasted in smaller batches. I can appreciate per sip when I taste the difference in small vs commercial chains. Of course my photoshoot was photobombed by a Terror Tot **eyeroll** and I had to think of creative ways to work around him lol. After enjoying the ambiance, we hit the streets yet stayed close. Coffee Underground is nestled away in the heart of downtown Greenville. They have restaurants n boutiques nearby for ur shopping needs and the weather was perfect too. If ever u find urself in Greenville, SC dont be surprised to see these little critters scurried about-no worries...they are statues. Apparently, u can have a scavenger hunt with these Mice on Main . After learning the history, I was low-key on the hunt. We found a good 6 or 7 out of 9. It was fun becuz I didn't wanna seem press I was lookin hard n got hella hyped when I spotted em. I did have a little helper too who's eyes I used for the smaller crevices of town! What I enjoyed most about my coffee find were my dates that accompanied me. It's exciting bringing someone into my world. For someone to make intentional time n do something out of the ordinary is a love language to me. What a great gesture right?! It was so nice, we dipped twice. I got the Honey Bee Latte before hitting the road for home. Yes...it was good. I'll definitely make it a pit stop when I go back to visit. So where to next for #SipTrips ??? Hmm...back to finding local spots in the #DMV n remember, I am open to suggestions. If there's a coffee shop u think I should visit; hit me up-u know u can find me on IG and ooooh...now Tik Tok as @daintylaydee (I know right, lol). Also, if u find urself taking a random sip trip, be sure to pause n take a few shots-twirl n enjoy...then tag me!