March 05, 2021

10 Things to Remember - Love, Life, and Relationships

March 05, 2021/ Natalie

Have you ever felt really…meh? Like you weren’t sure where you were going on how thing would turn out? Me too!

I do believe that’s just a part of life but I also believe that change can happen but it starts with YOU!

Today, I want to share 10 Things to Remember about love, life, and relationships!

1. If a person WANTED to – they would.

2. She is standing on a line between giving up and seeing how much she can take.

3. A woman wants to be surprised, loved, and doted on.

4. Let every man be swift to speak, slow to speak and slow to anger.

5. The little details matter.

6. Never trust a man/woman who tries to destroy you when he’s/she’s mad.

7. We repeat what we don’t repair.

8. Forgiveness is making the conscious decision to live in the present…even if the past still hurts.

9. Tomorrow is not promised – so love the ones who love you.

10. Be silly, have fun, be different because you only have one life to live.

One major change I’ve made recently is learning to care for myself. You would think that it’s an easy task, but honestly it’s not. Have you ever heard the saying “you can’t pour from an empty cup?” Well, honey I’ve been trying. Reality set in a few weeks ago for me and my body completely shut down. If you don’t take care of you…who will?

February 22, 2021

Celebrate Black History + Self Love

February 22, 2021/ Natalie

“How you love yourself is how you teach other to love you.” Rupi Kaur

It’s Black History + Self Love Month!!

This is giving me all the feels! I’m proud to be a black woman and learning to come into my own. This journey has been difficult but as 30 is approaching I’m starting to see things in a different light. I’m not sure if it was due to 2020 or my 30’s approaching but it feels good here! Everyday I’m learning to release the expectations that have been placed on me or ones that I’ve placed on myself.

Black History

I’m Black 365 days a year and yet I don’t feel that I celebrate the month. I know some people “show out” for their heritage month or holiday but I’ve never done that. I don’t think I’ve liked to think about my blackness but in reality, I have to. I’m raising black children in the South and I cannot shelter them from reality. What I can do is educate them and allow them to celebrate their black skin!

I am working to create an in-home library full of books with people of color. I want my children to see others that look just like them. I also plan to add books about diversity.

Self-Love

Show of hands who’s on or has been on a self-love journey? Some are born with the confidence while others are left struggling. I believe this has a lot to do with how you are raised. I grew up in a home with both parents, but they are not the affectionate type. However, I am very affectionate. I don’t know where it came from, I’ve always longed for that type of love. I vowed to give that to my children. I want them to see what healthy love looks and feels like. My children are learning to put up with me always wanting hugs and kisses. Even my oldest has learned that saying “I love you” is okay, in fact it’s cool!

After a recent bout of illness, my mindset was forced to shift. I had to realize that loving myself also included taking care of myself. I can’t say that I love me without honoring what my body needs. In doing so, that means I do the following:

1. Take time for myself (no distractions)

2. Prioritize my health

3. Rest when needed

My wish for you is to do the same! Not only for the month of February but all year round!

January 25, 2021

Happy New Year - 2021

January 25, 2021/ Natalie

Happy New Year!!!

Yes, I know I’m SUPER late but better late than never. I can’t believe how much things are changing. 2020 was an interesting year to say the least. It really felt like a whirlwind but I learning A LOT about myself. My roles as a mother, woman, and partner have all been tested but I survived and that’s a reminder to myself that I will continue to!

I plan to jump back in full force in the coming months but for now; I’m taking things slow. With the wedding less than two months away – I need time to focus and enjoy!

Sending you all lots of love.

October 12, 2020

Bachelorette Weekend - Charlotte, NC

October 12, 2020/ Natalie

With the wedding only months away and the holidays right around the corner, I knew it was time to enjoy a weekend getaway. I’m doing my best not to be a bridezilla and remain respectful of people’s time – so now was the perfect time!

I’m a pretty laid back person, but I knew I wanted to have a girl’s weekend and with COVID-19 still running wild I knew I had to keep it low-key! I decided to make it a fun and relaxing weekend by heading to Charlotte, NC with a few of my good girlfriends. We rented an Airbnb, enjoyed a photoshoot and took a pole dancing class.

No matter what type of bride you are – you can always enjoy a good vacation with a few of your friends. It was important that we were all able to relax and let our hair down. We enjoyed yummy bites; girl talk and good libations!

t-shirts “girls trip cheaper than therapy”

I like to believe that I am a prepared person and I made sure to have my girls a goodie bag, often known as the Bachelorette Rescue Kit. I included the following items in my kit:

- Gum

- Mints

- Shout Wipes

- Protein Bar

- Makeup Wipes

- Lip balm

- Tylenol

- Benadryl

- Tissue

- Panty Liner

Your bag can include whatever you like and match your theme. I purchased these bags from a cute shop on Etsy. I also made these cute water bottle tags on Canva to match my theme.

I highly recommend trying out a pole dancing class if you’re not really into the club scene. The class at PoleFit Carolinas was awesome! She helped us all feel comfortable and confident! I really want to go back for a visit!