life curation

Keep In Mind

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Happy Monday, friends! I hope today is the beginning of a wonderful and prosperous week for you all!

After having a tough couple of weeks, I came across a photo that I took after eating a fortune cookie. Sometimes, inspiration comes from the most random places . . .

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Full disclosure: I’m generally always working on two or three goals at a time. My bucket list is extensive, so I only do “hyper-focusing” when it’s a big deal. Constantly working on some goal or dream can take its toll: you can feel burnt out and exhausted. It takes a lot of energy to go for what you want out of life.

So, I decided to put them all of my dreams on hold for a while as I explored other options. Sometimes,  putting your attention elsewhere gives you some time to rest and restore before you handle the next leg of your journey. I was hoping that the other options led me to the place and circumstance that was meant for me.

Sadly, it didn’t work out that way.

I felt like I’d wasted my time and energy. I felt kind of low and drained, and not particularly motivated. Worst, I felt frustrated, because I hadn’t made any noticeable progress.

Then I came across this photo. And I remembered who I am, what I’m doing, and that there’s no such thing as wasted time.

That’s worth repeating, so let me say it again: There’s NO SUCH THING as wasted time. There are wins and there are lessons, nothing more. So I may not have had any wins, but I certainly got some lessons.

Now, it’s time to make peace with those lessons, move past my fear of failure, and take my next big step.

The lessons have prepared me. I’m ready.

 

music

Currently Listening to . . .

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I’ve really been into Dua Lipa and her sound. “New Rules” played so much during my last road trip that I decided to check her out and see what other music she’s created. Her music puts me in mind of the many vintage inspired artists from both the US and England (Meghan Trainor, Adele, Amy Winehouse, etc.,). I’m really fond of when she sings in a lower register and channels a really soulful sound.

When I watched the videos, I found another reason to adore Dua: the visuals are striking and innovative without being cheesy.

Here are two of my Dua faves: “New Rules” and  “Blow Your Mind”. Enjoy!

 

style

Tracee Ellis Ross’s New Clothing Line

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During one of my marathon chat sessions with a friend, I found out that one of my favorite actresses, Tracee Ellis Ross, is coming out out with her first fashion line. Tracee has been one of my favorite actresses for many years: I love her sweet, silly but fiercely loyal personality. She seems just as delightful offscreen as she does in front of the camera. That kind of genuine demeanor quickly endeared her to me.

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She is collaborating with JCPenney to offer some limited edition statement piece that are bold, unique, and distinctly Tracee. Funny enough, I like the pieces but I’m still undecided about whether I will purchase any of them. I love how Tracee is styled for the red carpet and her day-to-day life, but I’m not sure how I feel about the pieces in her line. Each item looks well-suited for her taste, but not like the fashions I usually gravitate toward.

But then again, who knows? Maybe the pieces are the kind that “come alive” when you actually put them on your body. The Glorious dress (see the photo below) is my most likely purchase, especially if it looks good on my body. I do like the colors and pattern, so I may give it a try.

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The pieces will be available starting November 12, so check them out and see if there’s anything that interests you. If you like Tracee’s quirky but cute style, you may find your next favorite signature piece within her line.

food · travel

Review: Thai Orchid Restaurant

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As I mentioned a few days ago, I got to do a mini-getaway to Orangeburg, South Carolina. I was curious about the local restaurants, so I hopped on Google and started looking around. I came across what seemed to be a good Japanese style restaurant, only to arrive at the location and see that the menu and ambiance were lacking.

My next choice was Thai Orchid (1155 Saint Matthews Road), located a little under a mile away from the underwhelming Japanese spot. I was surprised at the unassuming exterior of the building: the restaurant was a converted fast food place, complete with the remnants of a drive thru window. However, this restaurant is a case study in why it’s good to not judge a book by its cover.

The restaurant was full of ornately-carved artwork, chairs and tables. The tables were carefully set with sumptuous tablecloths and covered chairs.

 

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The entire restaurant was really a feast for the eyes. But what good is a restaurant if you don’t try the food? I ordered tom yum soup with shrimp and pad kapraw with shrimp.

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My bowl of tom yum soup

 

The soup was tasty, though a bit salty. I would have loved if it had more lemongrass flavor, too, but aside from the saltiness, it was still very good. The other flavors worked really well together, and it was a solid dish for starting my meal.

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Pad kapraw with shrimp

The pad kapraw was also delicious. I only wish that it didn’t have quite so many onions: I loved the flavor but the onions were a bit out of control! Everything was perfectly cooked and positively delectable. The portion sizes were generous and I felt satisfied with my meal.

I also tried the donuts and mango with sticky rice. I regret that I didn’t photograph those, but I did enjoy them!

The service was great, the food was good, and they even had live music for your listening pleasure! I had a great time at this local treasure, and I hope that the city’s residents will continue to support this business. I highly recommend that you try Thai Orchid when you’re visiting Orangeburg!

 

Uncategorized

My Wonder Woman Obsession

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Happy Wednesday, friends! This is going to be a short post, because who wants to spend lots of time reading a post in the middle of the week?

Have I ever shared with you all that I love Wonder Woman? Like, really, really love the character? You may have picked up on that fact when I did my current wish list post, but I don’t know if I was clear.

I wasn’t always obsessed with her, but as I’ve gotten older, I really identify with her story and her personal power (both literal and figurative).

It’s time to admit that my obsession has spilled over into my workspace:

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Yes, I have all of these on my desk at all times (though generally arranged in a more aesthetically pleasing way).

No, I’m not ashamed to be a grown woman with Wonder Woman toys in my workspace. We’re all entitled to our favorite little trinkets.

My biggest goal in life is to own every item on this Mashable list. Because you can never have enough Wonder Woman paraphernalia.

 

 

culture · travel

A Day at Edisto Memorial Gardens

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A few days ago, I was able to put my staycation plans on hold and take a REAL mini-getaway to Orangeburg, SC. One of my lifelong friends – my sister born of another mother – lives nearby and I was needing some time with my bestie.

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So, I hit the road and spent a few days with her. Just getting away for a little bit really did wonders for my soul. Even more soul-enhancing was my trip to Edisto Memorial Gardens.

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Despite visiting this area several times, this was my first time at the garden. And it didn’t disappoint! Beautiful greenery (courtesy of the rose garden), the picturesque Edisto river, and the perfect weather made for a wonderful trip.

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I’m hoping I can return around the holidays: the gardens are already set up with lights for the Christmas season. I’m sure it will be a wondrous sight when they’ve put the finishing touches on the light displays.

If you’re ever in the area, make sure to visit Edisto Memorial Gardens. You will love it!

life curation · words of wisdom

Words of Wisdom: Audre Lorde

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When I first started on my emotional and spiritual journey, I came across a lot of unsound advice from well-intentioned (but clueless) friends and family. The main problem with the advice I was receiving was that it lacked nuance and context for my specific circumstances.

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They knew me but they didn’t KNOW me, if you get my drift.

I kind of resigned myself to walking this path alone, until I came across the quote, “The master’s tools will never dismantle the master’s house”. I was perplexed by it, but I thought it was interesting enough to dig deeper and learn who said it first. My research led me to Audre Lorde.

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And. My. World. Changed.

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I found so much of what Audre wrote about mirrored my personal experiences, frustrations and concerns. She inspired me to find my voice, to own my personal power, and to care for myself. I owe a lot to Ms. Lorde.

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Whether you’re familiar with her or not, I’m sure you’ll find a gem among her words. The hardest part of this post was limiting the number of quotes so as not to inundate you all.

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Enjoy, and talk to you all tomorrow!

(all photos courtesy of Pinterest)

Uncategorized

Book Reviews On Hold (Temporarily) . . .

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Happy Sunday! I’m traveling from my friend’s home and it feels really good to have a few days in a warmer locale (not quite as warm as San Juan, but it’s still a good break from the ordinary).

However, as a heads up, I wasn’t able to finish October’s book selection. Between work, going out with friends, and planning for NaNoWriMo, I simply didn’t have the time. And, until NaNoWriMo is done, I won’t be picking up the Mae West again. I’m a little bummed that I couldn’t get it all done, but I’ve put life on hold long enough: I’m overdue for some adventures!

So, next month, I’ll do my Mae West review and read a “light” book so that I’m back on schedule. I will be excited to resume my normal schedule in December!

food

Review: For the Love of Chocolate

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During my last Carytown excursion, I went to Xtras Cafe and tried the delicious crabcake entree. However, the trip wasn’t just for the sake of trying a new meal. I wanted to also get some candy from my favorite chocolate shop, For the Love of Chocolate.

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The shop is small but packed with delicious options. I’m always impressed with the variety of chocolates and high quality service. The only downside of the shop is that they don’t have online shopping capabilities.

This trip, I focused on truffles. And boy were they delicious!

When I get a little more time, I’ll do a more in-depth review of specific truffles and other chocolates available there. In the meantime, check out the mint chocolate truffle that I enjoyed.

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Have any of you been to this chocolate shop? If not, it’s worth a trip! It’s located at 3136 West Cary Street, in Richmond, VA. I’ll see you there!