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Administrative Assistant Schedule Most days begin with quiet. No phone. No rush. Just a bottle of kombucha and a few deep breaths to ground myself. I’ve learned that how I start my day sets the tone for everything else. I built my business, Elite Powerhouse Consulting , around that principle. Structure, flow, balance, and intention. I help clients streamline their systems and get organized while also managing my own brand. I run The VA Launch Academy , where I teach aspiring virtual assistants how to start and grow a sustainable VA business . And I created That Girl Self Care Channel as a way to share my lifestyle, my routines, and how I prioritize peace and wellness while growing my business online. My day is full, but it works because I’ve built strong systems around me. Let me show you what that looks like in real life. Slow Mornings with Purpose Before I log on or open anything work-related, I take time for myself. This might mean journaling, stretching, or just sitting in stillness. I give myself time to set an intention for the day before jumping into client work. Once I settle into my workday, the first thing I open is my Client Profile Sheet . I created it in Google Drive using a spreadsheet format to track important client details, notes, timelines, and personal preferences. It helps me stay prepared and keeps my client experience consistent. After that, I move into Asana, which is my go-to tool for task management. I have everything organized by client, with daily checklists, timelines, and notes. If it’s a content-heavy day, I’ll open Canva next and start working on visuals like social media graphics, branded templates, or client presentations. I use Google Doc and Canva for both client work and my own brand. I’ve created resources like my Client Pricing Sheet and my Five Step Guide to Becoming a Virtual Assistant in Google Doc and Canva because it’s easy, visual, and professional. Focused Work and Client Projects My late mornings are dedicated to client work. I focus on one client at a time in blocks. Whether I’m reviewing systems, building out admin support, or organizing creative deliverables, I give each project my full attention. I track all of my time inside Harvest. It helps me stay mindful about where my energy goes and how much time I spend on specific tasks. It also gives me accurate data for client reporting and planning. If I’m planning a campaign or mapping out a new offer, I open Trello. I like using Trello for big-picture visual planning. I have boards for content strategy, onboarding, and even the behind-the-scenes work for That Girl Self Care Channel . It helps me think creatively while staying organized. I check in with clients mid-morning, usually through email or Slack. I don’t let communication take over my whole day, though. I’ve learned to create boundaries and protect my focus so that I can actually do deep work. Midday Reset for My Energy Around noon, I take a real break. I eat lunch, stretch, and step away from my desk. Sometimes I go outside or just sit in silence for a few minutes. This midday reset is one of the most important parts of my routine. Working from home can blur the lines between work and rest. That’s why I build recovery time right into my schedule. If I don’t care for my energy, I can’t give my best to my clients or my students. Creative Work and Content Creation Afternoons are when I feel most creative. This is when I work on content for The VA Launch Academy or create new downloads, guides, and templates. I use Canva to design everything from email lead magnets to client-facing forms. I also store all of my important resources in folders within Google Drive so they’re easy to access and share. I work on updating or refining my Client Pricing Sheet and review feedback from students using my 5 Step VA Guide . These tools are part of what helped me get organized early in my business, and now they’re helping others do the same. This time also includes connecting with new students, answering questions, or recording lessons for the academy. I love seeing the confidence that grows when someone finally realizes they don’t need to hustle in chaos to succeed. Systems bring peace. That’s what I teach and live by. Ending the Day with Boundaries By late afternoon, I start wrapping up. I go back into Asana and check off what’s been done. I take a few minutes to plan tomorrow’s top priorities. Then I shut my laptop and let the workday go. My evenings are calm. I light a candle, cook dinner, maybe do a little skincare, and then just let myself relax. I don’t answer client messages at night. I don’t check email. That boundary has been one of the best things I’ve ever given myself. This business fits into my life, not the other way around. That’s what I’ve always wanted, and it’s what I help other women build too. The Tools That Keep It All Together Here are the tools that I use daily in my business. They keep me efficient, focused, and grounded: Canva for all my design and branding work Asana for task and project management Trello for visual content planning and creative workflows Harvest for time tracking and client transparency Google Drive to store and organize everything I create My custom Client Profile Sheet and Client Pricing Sheet Click here for the 5 Step Free Guide to Becoming a Virtual Assistant , which I share through The VA Launch Academy . Every tool supports a system, and every system supports my peace. That’s the secret to running a virtual assistant business that grows without burning out. Final Thoughts Being a virtual assistant is more than a job for me. It’s a lifestyle that allows me to serve others, support myself, and still have time to breathe. I built my business with intention. I created structure not to feel rigid, but to give me the freedom to live well. If you're building your own VA career, know that the tools you choose and the habits you create matter. Start with systems that support your workflow. Create boundaries that protect your energy. And remember that your business should support your life, not consume it. This is the message I share through That Girl Self Care Channel , the mission I teach inside The VA Launch Academy , and the mindset I bring to every client I serve through Elite Powerhouse Consulting . You can be organized and soft. Strategic and rested. Professional and peaceful. That’s what a real day in the life of a virtual assistant can look like.

VA Work Tools Hey, missed me? I’ve been a little quiet here lately, but with good reason, I’ve been deep in the trenches building my very first digital product! It’s been a wild ride of brainstorming, tech hiccups, pricing puzzles, and figuring out how to actually market and deliver this thing to the world. So today, I’m peeling back the curtain and letting you in on everything that’s been happening behind the scenes. If you’ve ever thought about creating and selling a digital product yourself, this one’s for you. I’m going to break it all down, from what I made, to the tools I used, how I priced it, where I’m selling it, and the unexpected things I learned along the way. So let’s catch up, shall we? Where I’ve Been (and What I’ve Been Up To) So… where have I been? Short answer: building something I’ve been dreaming about for a while now, a digital product that could truly help my audience. Long answer: I’ve been designing, refining, and launching a full digital product toolkit. Think plug-and-play templates, resources, and systems that cut out the overwhelm and help people take action. It wasn’t just “slap a PDF together and call it a day.” This took time, testing, and more Google Docs than I’d like to admit. This toolkit is more than just digital files, it’s a product with real value. And I wanted it to feel like that from top to bottom. Why a Digital Product? I wanted to create something that could serve people even when I wasn’t actively online. That’s the beauty of digital products: you make them once and they keep working for you. They’re low-cost to create, highly scalable, and when done right, incredibly impactful. Plus, you don’t need to worry about shipping, packaging, or inventory. You can sell from anywhere, at any time, to anyone in the world. That flexibility was a big part of what drew me in. But honestly? I also just wanted to build something of my own. Something that lived beyond my social media feed. Something I could be proud of and that could support others in a real, useful way. What I Created I created a digital toolkit that helps people start their own Virtual Assistant Business . It’s not just pretty templates (although, yes, they are pretty). This toolkit walks you through the how, not just the what. From planning and structure to execution and follow-through, it’s a full-on system . And let me tell you, this thing has a lot of moving parts. Which leads me to… The Tools I Used to Bring It to Life Here’s the exact setup I used to create and launch everything: Canva  – I used it to design everything: templates, worksheets, covers, mockups, and promotional graphics. ChatGPT  – Yes, I absolutely used AI to help brainstorm, write content, and organize the structure. Total game-changer. Google Drive  – This is where all the final files live. It keeps things organized and makes sharing super simple. Stan Store  – My digital storefront! I hosted the product here and was able to create a super clean and simple checkout experience for buyers. Zapier  – I used Zapier to automate things behind the scenes, like connecting my product delivery to my email funnel. Systeme.io  – I used this to build my lead magnet funnel, grow my email list, and set up automated sequences. Everything works together now—mostly on autopilot. That was the goal: set it up once, and let it run. How I Priced My Product So, let’s talk about the money part. Because figuring out pricing was its own journey. I knew I was offering a lot of value, it’s a product that’s been valued at over $450. But I also wanted to make it accessible to the people who genuinely needed it, no matter what stage they’re in. So here’s what I did: I created a free lead magnet  that provides real value and also introduces people to my work and style. I sell some pieces of the toolkit separately for just $5 to $11—for people who don’t need the full version but still want a piece of the pie. The full toolkit  is priced at $97 , which reflects the value packed inside, without overwhelming my ideal customer. This tiered approach works beautifully. It gives people an entry point, builds trust, and then allows them to upgrade when they’re ready. It also gave me a chance to experiment with what converts best—and spoiler alert, people love a good freebie + $11 upgrade combo. Where I’m Selling It I’m hosting and selling everything through Stan Store , and I honestly couldn’t recommend it enough. Stan is built for creators like me, people who want to sell products, services, digital downloads, and more, without having to code or deal with complicated tech setups. I linked it right in my social media bios, created clean product listings, and now it’s all working behind the scenes while I sleep. If you’re a creator or entrepreneur looking for a platform that’s beginner-friendly but powerful, Stan Store is worth checking out. How I Marketed It Selling a digital product isn’t just about building it. You have to get it in front of the right people. But I didn’t want to feel like a pushy salesperson. So I focused on marketing with value and connection in mind. Here’s what I did: Shared behind-the-scenes  of the creation process on Instagram (people LOVE to feel part of the journey) Built a freebie funnel  with Systeme.io to offer my lead magnet, grow my email list, and gently introduce the full product Wrote helpful landing pages  (like this one!) to drive SEO traffic and share what I’ve learned Created Pinterest graphics  using Canva that link directly to my Stan Store product pages Sent out automated email sequences  that nurture and educate my list without being spammy My goal wasn’t to shout “buy this!” it was to show people how this toolkit could help them, and let the product speak for itself. What I Learned Whew. This whole process was a ride, and I learned so much—not just about creating a digital product , but about myself. Here are a few big takeaways: You don’t need everything figured out to start. Just begin. Done is better than perfect. Automate as much as you can from the beginning. People value real solutions more than flashy sales pages. You can create something amazing with free or low-cost tools. It’s okay to pivot. Your first version isn’t your last version. Also? I learned that launching something from your heart is scary, but incredibly fulfilling. It’s a mix of vulnerability and power. And now that it’s out in the world, I’m so glad I pushed through. So… What’s Next? Now that the product is live and working its magic, I’m shifting into growth mode. I’m testing different types of content, tweaking my funnel, and brainstorming a few new digital offers that complement the toolkit. Here’s what’s coming soon: A free training on how to plan and launch your own digital product Behind-the-scenes sales breakdowns (what worked, what didn’t) Possibly a small workshop or Q&A session And yes… I’m already dreaming up the next product. FAQs What kind of digital product did you create? A toolkit full of templates, planners, and systems designed to help [insert audience goal here]. Where can I buy it? You can grab the full toolkit and see other offers right in my Stan Store: The Virtual Assistant Corner Do I need all those tools to start? Not at all. Start with Canva, Google Drive, and Stan Store, that’s more than enough to build something amazing. Do I need a big audience to sell digital products? Nope. You just need the right offer and a real connection to your people. Was this a lot of work? Yes. But it was also 100% worth it. Final Thoughts If you’ve been thinking about creating something of your own, start now. Seriously. You don’t need to be “ready,” you just need to begin. I’m proud of this product. I’m proud of the effort. And I’m grateful for the space to share it with you here. If you’ve been wondering where I’ve been, this is it. I’ve been Building. Creating. Growing . And now, I’m back and more excited than ever to share, teach, and keep this momentum going. Thanks for sticking with me. More goodness coming soon. 💛

GLP-1 shot research For the longest time, I told myself I could fix it all with a better grocery list. I had PCOS, insulin resistance, constant bloating, brutal cravings, and a level of exhaustion I thought was just “being in my 30s.” But I was sure if I just found the right  anti-inflammatory recipe or finally committed to walking after dinner every night, I could figure it out. Maybe I needed to try cutting gluten again. Or was it dairy? Or was I eating too late? Not enough protein? Too much fiber? My camera roll became a graveyard of sad smoothies and screenshots of functional medicine influencers. I tried everything. Really — I tried . And still, nothing changed. I was waking up tired. My weight wouldn’t budge, even though I was eating like a wellness blogger with amnesia (you know, the ones who forget joy exists). I was working out, balancing blood sugar like it was a full-time job, obsessing over supplements, and still — my body felt like a brick. A bloated, cranky brick. Then my doctor called with lab results. “You’ve got leaky gut,” she said. “And your insulin levels are… not great.” Of course, I immediately Googled “leaky gut” and spiraled. The name alone sounds like something medieval peasants died from. But apparently, it’s real. And not only that, it made perfect sense. I had inflammation, food intolerances, fatigue, hormonal chaos — basically a bingo card of “your body is not okay.” And yet, I still didn’t feel justified in asking for more help. Isn’t that wild? I was inflamed, exhausted, gaining weight for no reason, dealing with wild cravings and blood sugar crashes, and still I thought… maybe I just need to be better. I think that’s the worst part. When you’re doing all the “right” things — and I mean all  of them — and it still feels like your body isn’t cooperating, the logical next step should be asking for help. But for me, it turned into self-blame. I thought, Other women lose weight with PCOS. Other people do this naturally. What’s wrong with me? I’d heard of GLP-1 medications — Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro — but I always brushed it off. I assumed those were for people with “real” issues. Not me. I was supposed to tough it out. Heal my gut, balance my hormones, do 12-step skincare and 10,000 steps a day, and magically feel amazing again. That’s what Instagram said. Spoiler: I didn’t feel amazing. I felt defeated. The cravings were the worst. Not the kind where you want a cookie after lunch. I mean the kind where you’re full, you know  you’re full, but your body is still screaming for sugar like it’s oxygen. I kept telling myself it was emotional eating or habit — but no. It was blood sugar chaos. My insulin resistance was doing the most. After one too many nights of arguing with myself in the kitchen (do I want a snack or do I want to cry?), I finally brought it up again to my doctor. She’d mentioned medication before, gently, but I wasn’t ready. This time, I was. I said, “I think I need help. Real help. Not just another elimination diet.” And she said, “Then let’s try it.” So this week, I’m starting the shot. Zepbound, to be exact. I’m nervous. And hopeful. And a little weirdly emotional about it. I spent so long convincing myself I didn’t deserve  medication unless I was at some mythical rock bottom — like there’s a prize for suffering the longest. But now? I’m done trying to earn wellness through restriction. I’m done letting shame be the boss. I want to feel good. I want my brain back. I want to eat a normal meal and not feel like I’m riding a blood sugar rollercoaster ten minutes later. I want to go through a day without thinking about food every ten seconds. I want to move my body because I feel good, not because I’m trying to out-run a hormone disorder. And if this little shot can help me do that? Then I’m in. I’m not expecting a miracle. I’m not expecting to wake up next week as a glowy, gym-loving goddess who eats chia seed pudding for fun. But I am  hoping for a break. A little peace in my body. A little less noise in my head. I’ll still be working on gut health, still eating meals that don’t inflame me, still walking and trying to take care of myself in all the boring adult ways. But now I’m doing it with backup. And that feels… really good, actually. So if you’re on the fence, if you’re in that place where you’re doing everything  and still feeling stuck — I see you. It’s okay to want more support. It’s okay to say, “I’ve tried, and I need help.” You don’t need to hit rock bottom to justify feeling better. I used to think starting medication meant I’d failed. Now I think it means I finally stopped pretending I had to do it all alone. And honestly? That feels like progress.

It’s Saturday, and I’ve barely moved from the couch and honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way. The sun peeked through the blinds a little later than usual, and I didn’t rush to meet it. No alarms, no calendar reminders pinging me out of bed. Just the quiet creak of the house settling, a warm mug of ginger-turmeric tea in my hand, and the soft hum of the weekend beginning. There’s a certain magic to slow Saturdays. The kind where you don’t change out of your robe until well past noon, and your biggest decision is whether you want to sip bone broth or make a smoothie. As a work-from-home mom with a growing brand and a to-do list that usually spills onto two pages, today felt like the calm before the beautiful chaos. And I welcomed it with open arms and fuzzy socks. I started the morning with something that’s become sacred to me lately: skincare. Not the rushed, splash-water-on-your-face-and-hope-for-the-best kind. But the real kind. I’ve recently treated myself to a few Korean skincare products, and let me tell you, game changer . My skin has been drinking them up like a tall glass of water. There’s something so grounding about standing in front of the mirror, gently patting in that cooling essence or watching your face light up from the hydration of a snail mucin serum that I got from Amazon (yes, that one everyone’s obsessed with). It’s quiet. It’s intentional. And weirdly, it makes me feel like I’ve got it all together, even if I’m wearing pajama pants with a hole in the knee. After that little spa moment, I curled up on the couch with my old friends— A Different World  and Martin . I don’t know what it is about 90s sitcoms, but they just hit different. Maybe it’s the fashion, the theme songs (seriously, has there ever been a better intro than Whitley’s slow walk down those dorm stairs?), or the fact that everything felt a little more hopeful back then. I’ve seen these episodes a dozen times, but I still laugh like it's the first. Watching Martin clown around or Dwayne Wayne try to woo Whitley makes everything else—deadlines, emails, algorithms—fade to the background. I didn’t do much else today. And that was the point. No productivity hacks. No half-working while pretending to relax. I let the dishes sit in the sink. I ignored the little voice telling me I should be “getting ahead.” I just...was. And it felt delicious. Like slipping into warm sheets at the end of a long day. Like saying “no” without explaining why. Like giving yourself permission to just be . People talk a lot about self-care these days, and sometimes it’s hard not to roll your eyes—especially when it’s packaged as a $60 candle or a juice cleanse you never asked for. But today reminded me that self-care doesn’t have to be complicated. It can be in the little things: the slow skincare, the warm turmeric tea, the familiar laugh tracks, the letting-go of everything for just one day. Because next week? Oh, next week is going to be big. I’ve got brand deals lined up, content to create, ideas swirling around in my head faster than I can pin them down. It’s exciting and a little intimidating in the best way. I want to pour myself into it with full energy—and that starts by filling my own cup first. So here I am, still in my robe (don’t judge), feeling a little more rested, a little more hydrated (inside and out), and a lot more ready to take on what’s coming. If you needed a sign to pause today, this is it. Do nothing. Watch something old. Pat on your favorite face cream. Sip something warm that loves your body back. Be kind to yourself. And remember: the world can wait—just for a little while.

Restaurant - With a Great Meal on Labor Day Labor Day always sneaks up on me. One moment it feels like we’re in the middle of summer, and the next thing I know, school is back in session, the kids are talking about basketball practice, and I’m trying to organize the week ahead so we don’t fall behind on everything. That’s why I love Labor Day—it feels like a much-needed pause button in the middle of all the back-to-school chaos. This year, it’s not about cookouts, long trips, or packing too much into the day. My husband, the kids, and I just wanted to enjoy the fact that we’re all off at the same time. No school, no work, no rushing around. Just a day to exhale and do the simple things that make us happy. Lunch at Avalon We decided that instead of spending half the day cooking and cleaning up, we’d head over to Avalon for lunch. Avalon is one of those spots where you really can’t go wrong—it’s got great energy, especially on a holiday like today. Everyone’s walking around with family, shopping bags in hand, and kids running across the plaza. For us, the restaurant of choice is Rumi’s Kitchen . The food there always hits—fresh, flavorful, and just different enough to feel special without being too fancy for the kids. I already know I’ll probably end up with their lamb kabobs and some saffron rice, while the kids go for something simple like chicken skewers. My husband loves their appetizers, so I’m sure we’ll have a table full of small plates to share. The best part is that it feels like a treat without being over the top. A Family Movie Break After lunch, we’re planning to catch a movie. Movies are one of those simple traditions we try to keep as a family. Everyone piles into the theater, we argue about popcorn toppings, and for a couple of hours, no one is on their phones. Today, the movie on our list is Freakier Friday . Now, I’ll admit this isn’t not our typical pick, but it’s quirky and fun, and we’re in the mood for something different. Sometimes the best part of seeing a movie together isn’t the movie itself—it’s the commentary afterward. I can already picture my kids quoting the funniest lines all week long or my husband laughing about how ridiculous some of the scenes were. It’s those inside jokes that last way past the credits. Ice Cream at Halcyon No holiday is complete without something sweet, and for us, that means ice cream. After the movie, we’re heading over to Halcyon. If Avalon is perfect for meals, Halcyon is perfect for dessert. It’s got that walk-around, family-friendly vibe where you can let the kids explore a bit while you enjoy a cone. We’ll probably end up at Kilwins , because who can resist their ice cream? I’m torn between their classic toasted coconut and something seasonal, while the kids will most likely go all out with sprinkles, waffle cones, and maybe even caramel drizzles. My husband always plays it safe with butter pecan, which I secretly appreciate because I can sneak a bite. We’ll walk around, eat our ice cream, and let the kids burn off a little energy before the week picks up again. Resetting for the Week Ahead What I love most about this Labor Day is that it’s not just about where we go or what we eat—it’s about the fact that we’re together. With school, basketball practices, work deadlines, and everything else, it feels like we’re always running in different directions. Today is our reminder to slow down and actually spend time with one another. The kids may not realize it now, but these are the days they’ll remember when they’re older. Not the fancy vacations or the big events, but the regular afternoons where we laughed over kabobs at lunch, cracked jokes in a movie theater, and ended the day with sticky hands from melting ice cream. As we get ready for the week ahead—basketball schedules, homework, meetings—I know today gave us exactly what we needed. A reset. A reminder that in between all the busy, there are still chances to connect and enjoy each other. Why Days Like This Matter Sometimes I feel like there’s pressure to make every holiday a big deal—grills fired up, parties planned, every minute scheduled. But the truth is, what makes a holiday special isn’t the number of people around or how much money you spend. It’s the ability to just stop and be present. Labor Day was created to celebrate the hard work people put in day after day. And while I appreciate the bigger meaning behind the holiday, for me it’s also about appreciating the work we put in as a family. Work isn’t just about jobs—it’s also about showing up for each other, making time when schedules are crazy, and building memories even in small ways. Today reminded me that I don’t always need to plan something elaborate to make it count. A good restaurant, a movie, some ice cream, and my family by my side—that’s more than enough. Looking Ahead As we wind down this Labor Day evening, I’m grateful for the chance to spend it with the people who matter most. Tomorrow will bring its usual hustle: school drop-offs, basketball practices, dinner to cook, and emails to answer. But at least for today, we pressed pause. I think that’s what Labor Day should always be about. Not just a day off, but a day on—with family, laughter, and the kind of memories that make the hard work of every other day worth it.

Vegas Day & Night Life Here’s the tea—it looks like our cousins’ trip is finally making it out of the family group chat. You know, the same chat where we’ve been “ planning ” this trip for years, but somehow the conversation always ends with, “We’ll figure it out later.”  Well, later is finally here, and the decision has been made: Las Vegas . If you’ve ever traveled with family, you know it’s equal parts love, laughter, and “girl, hurry up, we’re late.” My cousins are my built-in best friends , my partners in side-eye, and my safe space for being my unfiltered self. But when it comes to actually traveling together? That’s where things can get… interesting. One cousin wants to wake up at sunrise to “see everything.” Another needs two hours to do hair, makeup, and pick an outfit. And there’s always one who just wants to “go with the flow,” which is cute until you realize “the flow” doesn’t have reservations. And in a city like Vegas where there’s always something to do you can’t just wing it. Why Planning Is Non-Negotiable for Vegas Vegas is a sensory overload in the best way. The lights, the shows, the food, the shopping, the pool parties, the random Elvis sighting… it’s all part of the experience. But if you don’t have even a loose plan, you’ll end up wasting precious time trying to decide what to do next. That’s why I decided to get us organized early. I actually created this cool digital travel itinerary  a while back to keep my own trips on track, but it turns out it’s perfect for a cousin getaway too. Everything from activities to restaurant picks to packing lists lives in one place, and we can all access it from our phones. For me, planning isn’t about taking the fun out of the trip, it’s about making sure we have  the fun without missing the things we really want to do. The Group Chat Glow-Up If you’ve ever been in a family group chat before a trip, you know how wild it can get. Links flying in from ten different directions, someone sharing a random TikTok of a Vegas buffet at 2 a.m., outfit pictures with captions like “Yes or no?” that get zero consensus… chaos. This time, instead of letting all the info get buried, I’m pulling it into the itinerary: Daily Schedule  – Morning brunch spots, afternoon activities, evening shows, and a little room for late-night fun. Restaurant List  – Because cousins don’t let cousins eat bad food. Packing List  – Matching outfits for photo ops, comfy walking shoes, and something with sparkle for nightlife. Trip Highlights  – Those “must-do” activities, like a spa day, rooftop dinner, and maybe even a helicopter ride over the Strip. The best part? Everyone gets a link to the itinerary so they can check it without asking me for the plan every five minutes. My Version of Travel Self-Care Self-care isn’t always a candlelit bath or a face mask (though I’m not mad at those). Sometimes, it’s making sure future-you isn’t stressed out in a hotel lobby trying to figure out what’s next. By building this itinerary, I’m giving us: Downtime – Because naps are non-negotiable in Vegas. Flex Hours – For those random “let’s just walk and see what happens” moments. Must-Do Moments  – So we don’t leave saying, “I wish we had time for that.” Vegas moves fast, but we don’t have to. A little planning means we get to enjoy the city without running ourselves ragged. Pre-Trip Fun (and a Little Chaos) We haven’t booked the flights yet, but the excitement is real. The group chat has gone from random memes to serious planning. Pinterest boards are popping up. We’re sending outfit inspo back and forth, only to change our minds the next day. I already know we’re going to overpack. I already know someone’s going to try to convince us to squeeze in “just one more activity” when we’re clearly ready for bed. And I know there will be moments where we laugh so hard we can’t breathe—because that’s just how my cousins and I are. Lessons From Planning a Cousin Trip If you’ve ever been the “planner” in your family or friend group, here are a few things I’ve learned so far: Get input early – Don’t build the plan alone and then get hit with “I don’t want to do that” two days before the trip. Plan for different energy levels  – Not everyone wants to be out all night or up at sunrise. Mix high-energy activities with chill moments. Share the plan in one place – Whether it’s my digital itinerary or something else, make sure no one can say, “I didn’t know.” Leave room for surprises – Vegas will throw opportunities at you. Don’t overschedule every second. Budget talks are your friend  – Figure out what people are comfortable spending before you start booking things. What’s On Our Vegas Bucket List I’m keeping some things a surprise, but here’s what’s already on my radar: A rooftop brunch – For the views, the photos, and the mimosas. A big show – Cirque du Soleil or something equally over-the-top. The spa – Because after a few days of walking the Strip, we’re going to need it. A little shopping   – Whether it’s high-end or quirky souvenirs, we’re finding something. Nighttime sightseeing  – Vegas lights are a show all by themselves. The Countdown Is On I can already see it us laughing in the airport, making "we are in our 30s, 40s, and 50s but still know how to have fun TikToks" in the hotel room, accidentally staying out too late, and telling stories we’ll be retelling at every family reunion for the next decade. Being the planner comes with responsibility, but it also means I get to help create the trip I know we’ve all been dreaming about. And when we land in Vegas, we’ll be ready—with outfits picked, reservations made, and plenty of space for whatever adventures come our way. Canva Editable Girl's Trip Planner And yes, my digital travel itinerary  will be right there in my phone, keeping us on track without killing the vibe. Because if there’s one thing I know about traveling with my cousins it’s that we’ll have the time of our lives… as long as we don’t waste it deciding what to do next.

This desk represents the messiness in life Hey y’all. So apparently I started a blog, told myself I was gonna be consistent, and then life said, “That’s cute.”  I didn’t disappear on purpose. One minute I was updating pages and feeling proud of myself for getting things together, and the next thing I know… weeks had passed. It wasn’t laziness, it was just life being life. I’ve been juggling everything — work, home, my health — and honestly trying to stay afloat without completely losing it. If you’ve ever had someone ask you again  what’s for dinner when you’re already stretched thin, you get it. It’s those little moments where you think, “Am I running a household or managing a diner?” And as much as I want to laugh about it, sometimes it feels like too much. Being a Black woman, trying to keep up appearances, trying to be “that girl,” and also just trying to digest food in peace — it’s exhausting. I’m over here managing hydration, stress, self-care, gut issues, and the endless scroll of my phone. It feels like a lot because it is  a lot. And then the internet tries to convince us that real self-care requires a $70 glass water bottle, an early morning yoga practice, and a fridge full of prepped salads. Truthfully? Some days, self-care for me is just sitting in silence and letting myself not care for a while. And maybe that’s okay. Maybe it’s okay if my version of wellness doesn’t look like an aesthetic Instagram reel. Because the truth is, life doesn’t always line up neatly. There are days when you’re full of energy and productivity, and then there are days when you’re just trying to make it to bedtime without snapping at someone who left dirty dishes in the sink. Both days are valid. Both are real. I remind myself often that I started this blog not to present a polished picture but to share the messier parts of it all. To remind myself, and you if you’re reading, that it’s okay to show up imperfectly. That starting again doesn’t need an official date or a brand-new planner. You can begin again on a random Tuesday at 4 p.m. if you want to. So maybe this post is less about what I’ve done lately and more about the simple fact that I’m still here. Still figuring it out, still growing, still laughing when I can, and still eating meals that don’t always look Instagram-worthy but keep me going. That’s the reality of it. And if you’re in the same place — where you meant to stay consistent, and then life pulled you in ten different directions — take this as your reminder that you don’t have to feel guilty about it. You don’t need rules to take care of yourself. You don’t need perfection. All you need is permission to choose yourself again, however that looks for you. So this post is me showing up. No schedule, no promises of a perfect routine, just me saying hello and inviting you to remember that self-care is about the little choices, the quiet resets, the imperfect starts. Let’s just keep going together, one honest day at a time. – That Girl

Homemade Pecan Pie There are certain recipes that instantly remind me of fall and the holiday season, and pecan pie is at the top of that list. The sweet, nutty filling paired with a flaky crust feels like home in every bite. This is one of those desserts I look forward to making year after year, whether it’s for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or simply a cozy Sunday when the weather cools down. What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to put together, yet it tastes like something you’d find at a bakery. The pecans toast beautifully in the oven, the filling becomes rich and caramel-like, and the crust gives it the perfect bite. Once you try it, you’ll see why pecan pie is a classic that never goes out of style.   Recipe Details Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 50 minutes Cooling Time: 4 hours Total Time: About 5 hours Servings: 8 slices   Ingredients 1 unbaked 9-inch deep-dish pie crust (store-bought or homemade) 1 ½ cups pecan halves (reserve some for topping) ¾ cup packed light or dark brown sugar 1 ½ cups light or dark corn syrup ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted 2 large eggs 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract ½ teaspoon salt   Instructions Preheat Oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Place rack in the center. Prepare Crust: Fit the pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan. For extra crispiness, partially bake it for 7–10 minutes. Mix Filling: In a bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and salt until smooth. Add Pecans: Stir in the pecans, saving a handful to place decoratively on top. Assemble Pie: Pour the filling into the crust, then arrange the remaining pecans on the surface. Bake: Bake for 45–50 minutes until the filling is mostly set (the center should jiggle slightly). If the crust edges brown too quickly, cover with foil. Cool Completely: Let pie cool at room temperature for at least 4 hours to fully set before slicing.   Tips for the Best Pecan Pie Use Dark Corn Syrup: This adds a richer, more caramel-like flavor. Crispier Crust: Brush the crust with a little beaten egg before filling to help keep it firm. Make Ahead: This pie tastes even better the next day. Make it a day before your gathering and store it covered at room temperature. Serving Suggestion: Top with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.   Storage & Freezing At Room Temperature: Keep covered for up to 2 days. Refrigerator: Store tightly wrapped for up to 5 days. Freezer: Wrap in plastic and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.   Frequently Asked Questions Can I use white sugar instead of brown sugar? Brown sugar gives a deeper, caramel flavor, but white sugar will work if that’s what you have. Why is my pecan pie runny? If it hasn’t set, it likely needed more baking time. The pie should jiggle slightly in the center but not look liquid. Do I need to refrigerate pecan pie? It’s fine at room temperature for 1–2 days, but for longer storage, keep it in the fridge.   Final Thoughts This pecan pie is simple, delicious, and always a hit. It’s a recipe I love to bake during the fall, but honestly, it’s perfect year-round. If you’re looking for a dessert that’s comforting, timeless, and guaranteed to impress, this pie is it.

And Breathe - First Step in Self-Care Friday was my birthday. Instead of blowing out candles or enjoying dinner with my family, I spent the day in a hospital bed dealing with some hormonal issues (TMI, I know). It wasn’t the celebration I had imagined, but it was a wake-up call. My body had been whispering for weeks that it needed attention, and I just wasn’t listening. By the time Friday came around, it was shouting. As I lay there, hooked up to monitors, I thought about how often women like me put off caring for ourselves until it’s urgent. We power through fatigue, ignore the mood swings, dismiss the bloating or brain fog, and push our needs to the bottom of the list. But that birthday in the hospital reminded me of something simple yet profound: self-care isn’t a luxury. It’s survival. And so when Sunday came, I made it my reset day, the day I recommit to listening to my body, especially as I navigate perimenopause, leaky gut, and all the challenges that come with them. Breaking the Myth of Self-Care For years, I believed self-care had to look like a spa day. Bubble baths, face masks, a massage appointment, things that sound relaxing but never really addressed the deeper issues I was struggling with. Don’t get me wrong, those things can feel good. But when your hormones are all over the place and your gut feels like it’s fighting you at every meal, surface-level fixes only go so far. Real self-care is quieter. It’s saying “no” when your body needs rest, even if others don’t understand. It’s choosing food that heals instead of food that comforts in the moment but leaves you worse off later. It’s slowing down enough to notice what’s working and what isn’t. That’s the version of self-care I’ve had to lean into, and Sunday has become my anchor for it. My Sunday Rituals I call Sundays my soft reset. They don’t fix everything, but they create a rhythm that helps me feel human again after a long week — or in this case, a long birthday in a hospital gown. 1. A Slow Start Instead of jumping out of bed, I let myself ease into the day. A cup of warm lemon water calms my stomach and wakes me up gently. Coffee isn’t an option for me anymore with leaky gut, so this has become my ritual. I light a candle, take a few deep breaths, and let silence fill the room before the week ahead tries to swallow me whole. 2. Nourishing Food Choices Food has turned into both my greatest challenge and my greatest medicine. With leaky gut, the wrong meal can leave me bloated and miserable for hours. So on Sundays, I take the time to prepare. I make bone broth, roast vegetables, and plan simple meals I know will soothe my system. Cooking this way doesn’t just feed me, it reassures me that I’m doing something proactive for my health. 3. Movement Without Pressure Exercise used to feel like punishment. Now, it’s about connection. On Sundays I don’t force myself into anything intense. Sometimes it’s a long walk outside, breathing in the air and feeling the ground beneath my feet. Other times, it’s gentle stretching or wall Pilates in my bedroom. I don’t measure calories burned; I measure how present I feel in my body. 4. Digital Boundaries By evening, I put my phone away. No endless scrolling, no comparing my real life to someone else’s highlight reel. Instead, I grab a journal. I jot down what my body went through during the week — the fatigue, the foods that flared my symptoms, the moments that made me laugh. It’s not just about tracking perimenopause and gut health; it’s about giving myself space to process what’s happening instead of bottling it all up. 5. Rest and Reflection If this week taught me anything, it’s that rest is not optional. Perimenopause has already slowed me down in ways I didn’t expect, but rest has become less of a weakness and more of a strength. On Sundays, I let myself nap if I need to. I read, I pray, I sit quietly. My body thanks me every time I choose restoration over hustle. Why These Rituals Matter That hospital visit was a reminder I won’t forget: I can’t keep putting myself last. The reality is, when I ignore my needs, I pay for it, and so do the people around me. My kids notice when I’m short-tempered, my family feels it when I’m exhausted, and I feel it most of all when my body finally collapses under the weight of being ignored. These Sunday rituals aren’t perfect. They don’t erase perimenopause symptoms or magically heal leaky gut. But they keep me steady. They remind me that I can’t pour from an empty cup, that showing up for my health means I can show up better for everyone else too. A Note to Anyone Reading If you’re walking through something similar — whether it’s hormonal chaos, digestive struggles, or just the stress of everyday life — I hope this encourages you. You don’t have to wait until a hospital bed forces you to slow down. Start now. Add one small ritual that makes you feel whole, and build from there. For me, Sundays have become sacred. They’re the day I put myself back together, piece by piece. And maybe that’s the real definition of self-care: not the glamorous moments we share online, but the quiet choices we make to honor ourselves when nobody’s watching.

Life with two boys; one 10, the other 15, it feels like I’m running a household that doubles as a locker room and a comedy club. Both of them play basketball, which means our weekends are spoken for before the week even begins. Games, practices, tournaments… I swear I’ve memorized the squeak of sneakers on gym floors as well as the rhythm of the referees’ whistles. My calendar isn’t filled with brunches or spa days, but with tip-off times and away-game locations. Still, I wouldn’t trade it for anything. My older son, the 15-year-old, has hit full teenage stride. He comes with the attitude, the eye rolls, the sudden need for independence , but also this incredible drive that shows up on the court. He’s competitive and intense, and sometimes I catch myself watching him play and wondering when my little boy turned into this young man with a jump shot and a mean crossover. Your Favorite Sitcom Moms My younger one is 10, and though he’s still in that in-between stage part little kid, part almost-teen, he’s right there with his big brother, basketball in hand. He looks up to him, copies his moves, and occasionally argues with him like they’re equals. Watching the two of them together is one of my favorite things: brothers who push each other, tease each other, and at the end of the day, have each other’s back. If you were to peek into our home on a random weekday, though, the scene would look less picture-perfect. Asking my boys to clean their rooms or do chores is like pulling teeth. I’ll stand in the doorway, surveying socks that have taken permanent residence under the bed and cups that somehow migrate from the kitchen to every corner of the house. They look at me like I’ve asked them to climb Mount Everest when I say, “Can you vacuum the living room?” They’re stubborn, but I can’t even be that mad, they get it from me. Sitcom Mom Tee They’re just like me when it comes to how they respond to foolishness. They’re quick with their wit, quick with their comebacks, and quick to side-eye me when I ask them to do something they’d rather not. In a funny way, that reflection of myself staring back at me, sometimes frustrating, sometimes hilarious, but it keeps me grounded. And yet, in between the mess and the moods, there’s this rhythm to our family life that I absolutely love. We carve out time to go out to eat, nothing fancy, sometimes just burgers and fries, but those dinners are where the best conversations happen. At the movies, we pile into the seats with popcorn and candy, whispering jokes to each other during the previews. Even driving in the car to a game or just running errands becomes a chance to connect: music blasting, us laughing about something silly, or having those rare but meaningful heart-to-hearts that sneak up on you when the timing is just right. The truth is, I just want to keep them close to me. I know these years are fleeting. I can already feel the space widening as my older son edges further into independence. He spends more time with friends, more time at practice, more time in his own world. And soon enough, the little one will follow. I think about how one day, instead of driving them to games, I’ll be dropping them off at college or visiting them in their own apartments. It makes me catch my breath a little, the way time sneaks up on you when you’re busy doing laundry, cheering in bleachers, or arguing about dishes in the sink. But that’s what makes these everyday moments matter even more. Yes, it can be* exhausting. Yes, sometimes I feel like a broken record reminding them to clean up. But I also know that in a few years, the sound of bouncing basketballs in the driveway or the chaos of finding jerseys before a game will be gone. So I hold on tight! Being their mom is the best thing I’ve ever done , even with all the chaos. The messy rooms, the basketball weekends, the stubborn streaks that mirror my own, they’re all part of this season of motherhood I know I’ll look back on and miss. Right now, I’m just grateful I get to be along for the ride.

It's Fall Time Every year when the air shifts, when the mornings are a little cooler, when I notice the light turning softer I feel like myself again. Summer is fun, of course, but fall feels like home . I’m the kind of person who gets way too excited about switching over my perfumes . While some people love musky, woodsy scents, I always gravitate toward the sweet ones like vanilla bean , caramel drizzle , pumpkin cupcake . The kind that makes you want to lean in closer. Lighting a candle , fall nail polishes , and spritzing a sugary perfume in September feels like flipping a switch that says: fall has officially begun. Fall Must Haves - On Benable And then there are the clothes . This is when my closet really shines. I live in cozy leggings , oversized sweatshirts, and all the soft knits that feel like a hug. For shoes, it’s a rotation between my UGGs (the ultimate cozy shoe) and my retro Jordans (when I want to feel a little more pulled together but still comfortable). I love the balance of cozy and cool , like I can be ready for a school pickup, a football game, or just a walk through crunchy leaves at a moment’s notice. But the heart of fall, for me, is all about family traditions. Every October , we head to the pumpkin patch . No matter how many times we’ve gone, my kids are just as thrilled as the year before running between the rows, debating which pumpkin is “the one,” and ending up with arms full of gourds. We always leave with cider and donuts, and I always leave with a camera roll full of photos I’ll look back on when they’re older. Then there are the school and community events, the cake walks are a favorite . If you’ve never been to one, picture a circle of numbers on the ground, kids walking to music, and when the music stops, someone wins a cake. It’s silly, it’s small-town sweet, and my kids light up every single time. Sundays, though, are reserved for football. I’m not above admitting that I love the atmosphere more than the stats, something about the sound of a game in the background, a big pot of chili simmering, and a blanket pulled over my legs feels like fall distilled into a single afternoon. It’s the rhythm of the season. Green Cozy Blanket This year, I’m also trying to look at fall as a kind of reset button before the chaos of the holidays. I’ve set small personal goals like slow mornings, less rushing, more time outside, and making space for things that feel good. It’s funny how fall feels both comforting and full of possibility, like a fresh notebook waiting for the first page to be written. So yes, I’m the fall-scent perfume girly. I’m the one in leggings and Jordans , cheering at a cake walk and stirring chili during halftime. And honestly? I wouldn’t have it any other way. What about you? What makes you excited for fall this year... new boots, old traditions, or just the simple pleasure of crisp air and cozy nights?

Lately, I’ve been diving into the world of affiliate marketing , and let me tell you, it’s been a mix of “Wow, this works!” and “Okay… maybe not that way.” I didn’t come into it with some big, fancy strategy or a huge following. I just started testing things to see what would actually work for me. And honestly, that’s half the fun you never really know what’s going to take off until you try. One of the first things I played around with was Amazon’s affiliate program . It felt like a no-brainer, everybody shops there, right? I figured if I’m already recommending stuff to friends and family, I might as well make a little commission when they buy it. Then I stumbled across Benable , which is basically like making your own curated list of things you love. That one actually surprised me because it feels less “salesy” and more like, “Hey, here’s all the stuff I personally use and swear by.” People seem to respond to that kind of authentic vibe. I’ve also tried using my own links across different platforms, Pinterest has been a big one for me. It’s kind of like planting seeds. You post something today, and weeks (or even months) later, people are still clicking and buying. I’m not saying I’ve made millions trust me, I’m nowhere near quitting my day job, but those little bits of income do add up, and it’s nice to see something you put out into the world actually working for you in the background. The thing about affiliate marketing is that it’s not just one-size-fits-all. What works for one person might completely flop for someone else. And I’m still figuring out what my “sweet spot” is, and what I enjoy doing that actually brings in results. I think the biggest win for me so far has been realizing that you don’t have to be an expert or have a huge audience to start seeing small wins. So now I’m curious, what have you tried? Have you had success with certain platforms or programs? Are you all-in with one strategy, or do you like to test a bunch of things like me? I love hearing how other people are making it work, so drop your ideas, wins, or even fails in the comments. We can all learn from each other’s experiments.