I’m a Barbie Girl | Diversity in Mattel Barbie

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Let’s face it, if you haven’t seen the Barbie movie or didn’t want to be a Barbie this summer you really missed out! Kudos to the Barbie marketing team because they hit this one out of the park. After watching the movie, it allowed me to take a moment to see what types of barbies were available. The goal of the movie was to showcase a variety of barbies in different races and roles, although this missed out on the cultural part, but it was a start.

I’m even more excited to see the changes since I checked out a few curvy barbies in 2018.

The Barbie Movie

Barbie is a movie that has been in the works for a long time, and premiered in theaters on July 21, 2023. The movie stars Margot Robbie as Barbie and Ryan Gosling as Ken. The movie is directed by Greta Gerwig, who is known for her work on movies like Lady Bird and Little Women.

The movie is about a Barbie who is living in a perfect world, but she starts to feel like something is missing. She then goes on an adventure to find her true self and expresses the tough realities of being a woman.

The movie has gotten a lot of buzz; both good and bad. I personally enjoyed the movie and felt it hit home. I enjoyed seeing all of the throwbacks and discontinued Barbies. Do I wish it was more diverse? Sure, but I went into it being a fun movie and that’s what it was. If you are a fan of Barbie, or if you are just looking for a fun movie to watch, then it's worth checking out. 

On my recent trip to Target, I decided to take a trip down the doll aisle to see what Barbie has been up to and here’s what I found.

Barbie Fashionistas Doll with Wheelchair and Ramp 

Barbie Self-Care Rise & Relax Doll with Gray Puppy

Barbie Gymnastics Playset

Barbie You Can Be Anything Baby Doctor




Overall, I’m happy to see that Barbie has stepped up their game by providing a diverse set of Barbie dolls. There are plus size barbies, multicultural barbies, and differently abled barbies for all kids to enjoy.




Tips For Finding a Therapist

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Hey Friends! If you’ve found this article, that means you’re considering therapy, and let me tell you, it’s one of the best things I’ve ever done for myself. I want you to know that you're not alone. Millions of people seek therapy every year to help them with a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, relationship problems, and grief.

I’ve been on a healing journey for years, and one of the main things that has stopped my progress is the ability to have a good and consistent therapist. I found that in-person appointments didn’t work for me. It required too much time and resources, so virtual sessions became my perfect solution. I aim to continue working on myself every day and showing up as the best version of myself. In doing so, that required me to start therapy again. 

Finding a therapist can be daunting, but it's important to find someone who is a good fit for you. Here are a few things to keep in mind when you're starting your search:

  • Do your research. Before you start interviewing therapists, research to learn more about different types of therapy and what to expect from therapy. You can find information about therapy online, in books, and from friends or family who have seen therapists.

  • Talk to your doctor. If you have a doctor, you can ask for a referral to a therapist. Your doctor may be able to recommend someone who is familiar with your medical history and who can help you with your specific needs.

  • Ask for recommendations. Talk to friends, family, or coworkers who have seen therapists and ask for their recommendations. You can also ask your local mental health association for a list of therapists in your area.

  • Interview potential therapists. Once you have a few names of potential therapists, schedule an interview with each one. This is your chance to get to know the therapist and see if they are a good fit for you. Ask the therapist about their experience, their approach to therapy, and their availability. This may often be referred to as a consultation and may be offered for free.

  • Trust your gut. When you're interviewing therapists, pay attention to your gut feeling. If you don't feel comfortable with a therapist, don't feel obligated to see them. There are plenty of other therapists out there who can help you.

I was able to find an amazing therapist via the Therapy for Black Girls Directory. I entered therapy in October 2020, and it was good, but that therapist no longer fit the needs and style of therapy that I needed. I was in a crisis and wanted to find help immediately. It was huge for me to realize this, and starting my therapy journey again in 2023, I took a new approach. I researched long and hard; I knew the things I wanted help with the most, and I only sought out a therapist who could provide that for me. 

Starting therapy can be a big step, but it can also be one of the most rewarding things you do for yourself. By finding a therapist who is a good fit for you, you can start on the path to healing and recovery.

Here are a few additional tips for finding a therapist:

  • Be prepared to answer questions about your mental health history and your goals for therapy.

  • Be honest with the therapist about your expectations and concerns. (When you have the right therapist, you’ll feel comfortable being honest.)

  • Be open to trying different types of therapy.

  • Don't be afraid to ask for help if you're not sure what to do.


If you're struggling to find a therapist, there are a few resources available to help you. You can contact your local mental health association or crisis hotline for assistance. You can also find online directories of therapists in your area.

Finding a therapist can be a challenge, but it's worth it. With the right therapist, you can make progress on your mental health goals and live a happier, healthier life.

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org. You can also reach the Crisis Text Line by texting MHA to 741741.

You can also call 1-800-985-5990 or text “TalkWithUs” to 66746 at the SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline. Trained crisis workers will listen to you and direct you to the resources you need.

Wishing you all the best! 


My Top 5 Books of 2023

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As we all know, I’ve been in my reading era this year and forgot how much I enjoy it. It’s brought me so much peace and a new perspective on life. So before the year is over, I have to share my top 5 books that have made a HUGE impact on my life for the better.

1. Before I Let Go - Kennedy Ryan

Before I Let Go took me on a wild ride, it felt so real! I could see this happening in real life and that’s what made it one of my favorite reads of the year. This story takes you on a journey of divorce, reconciliation, and mental illness. 


2. Finding Me - Viola Davis 

Finding Me was insanely good, and I gained a new respect for Viola Davis. I listened to this book first, and then I had to buy it. Hearing a person tell their story can take it to the next level. With Viola being a South Carolina native, I had to purchase the book to show my support. Her story reminded me that anything is possible. Even though things aren’t going the way I want them to, it doesn't mean that my life is over.

If you’re struggling with your upbringing and determined to make it out, this is a story worth reading.

3. Dear Black Girl, Letters From Your Sisters on Stepping Into Your Power - Tamara Winfrey Harris

Dear Black Girl - Letters from Your Sisters…was everything I needed when I was a teenager. So much so that I gifted this book to my daughter, if I don’t do anything right on my parenting journey, I want my kids to know that I’m a safe place. I don’t have all the answers but I’m willing to work with you to come up with a solution. I don’t want to parent out of fear but love.

4. Black Girl, Call Home - Jasmine Mans

Black Girl, Call Home felt like a safe space to jot down my thoughts, feelings, and plans for the future. It shared every “black girl experience” I could think of. It’s real, raw, and uncut. Suppose you need a moment just to be and feel. This is it!!! 


5.100 Days of Believing Bigger - MarShawn Evans Daniels 

100 Days of Believing Bigger is a devotional journal that’s perfect for anyone struggling with their faith. 2023 has been one heck of a year and my faith was down in the dumps. I felt like I couldn’t see or hear God and this devotional among attending church in-person really helped to boost my spirit.

All of these books will forever hold a special place in my heart. They are a reminder of what 2023 is/was to me, but here’s to moving on. Currently, I don’t have a 2024 TBR list but I’ve purchased so many books recently that I hope to get a chance to read them over Christmas break. If not, 2024 - it's on!

Honorable Mentions 

I enjoyed these books as well, but they didn’t make my top 5.

Moth to A Flame - Ashley Antoinette

The Inmate - Freida McFadden

Don’t Cry For Me - Daniel Black

Their Eyes Were Watching God - Zora Neale Hurston 

Recitatif: A Story - Toni Morrison 


Wanna check out the books I’ve read or am reading - follow My Book List.


Gifts for Her | Christmas 2023 Holiday Gift Guide

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Happy holidays, friends! Are you looking for the perfect gift for the special woman in your life? Look no further than this gift guide for women! I’ve compiled a list of the best gifts for women of all ages, interests, and budgets.

Whether she's a fashion-forward fashionista, a homebody who loves to cook, or a fitness enthusiast, I’ve got you covered. So sit back, relax, and let us help you find the perfect gift for the woman who has everything.

Want to shop your gifts all in one place? Check out my Gifts for Her on Amazon! 

Gifts for the Fashion-Forward Woman

If the woman in your life is always on-trend, she'll love these fashion-forward gifts:

Gifts for the Beauty Lovers

If the woman in your life is always on-trend, she'll love these fashion-forward gifts:

Gifts for the Homebody

If the woman in your life loves to spend time at home, she'll appreciate these gifts:

Gifts for the Fitness Enthusiast

If the woman in your life is always on the go, she'll love these fitness-inspired gifts:

Gifts for the Woman Who Has Everything

If you're stumped for what to get the woman who has everything, consider one of these unique gifts:

  • A weekend getaway

  • A piece of fine jewelry

  • A gift certificate for a spa day

  • A personalized gift, such as a piece of jewelry with her name on it

  • A donation to her favorite charity

No matter what you choose, the woman in your life is sure to appreciate the thoughtfulness of your gift. So go ahead and spoil her rotten!