The Bachelorette Life: Bae Watch

I figured out where the beautiful men are. Turns out, they go to the gym, sporting events, concerts, the beach, maybe some bars and clubs (although I don't recommend the bar or club option for quality boyfriend material), and anywhere else you may happen to be where there are people. A few weeks back I had an unexpected bae watch spotting of my own that was a refreshing reminder of the joys of singleness. I was hitting the gym per usual when I spotted him. And to my surprise, I caught him staring at me when I was checking in. He was tall, tan, athletic, had effortless swag, was covered in tattoos, and he was friendly. Our eyes met for a hot minute and I smiled and thought, wow, he looks good. I should go talk to him. When I finished working out, he was still hanging out at the entrance and on my way out the door I looked at him, and simply said, "Hi." He'd been talking to some other people before I walked up and he paused when I passed through, said hi back, and kept looking my way. In that brief moment I also thought, man, I love being single. Although it was a brief encounter, I can always appreciate a good looking guy. Especially one who's available and kind (not to mention one that values staying fit too J) In the past when I'd spot someone attractive, I'd just freeze up, act really goofy, and not say a word. But this time I was chill. Next time I just need to make sure we swap names and maybe numbers afterward. Getting caught in the haze of good looks can throw anyone off. It happens. But if you're single and looking to mingle this summer, make sure you're in the best #baewatch spots. Being in the right place at the right time can put you face to face with others checking for someone as incredible as you. He wasn’t my first bae watch sighting and he won’t be the last. I’m sure there’ll be more to come. Did I mention I love the bachelorette life and redefining what life can be like for a single, Christian woman? I'm just getting warmed up.

Thoughts From a Black Educator: Qualified, Credentialed, and Constantly Undermined

I’m a Black educator in my fifth year of teaching middle school English, and in my third as the 8th Grade English PLC (Professional Learning Community) Lead. And while I genuinely enjoy the purposeful work I get to do, seeing the growth of my scholars, and continuing to hone my skills in a content area I’ve loved since I was a little girl, I’ve had to confront some unpleasant experiences in this space. I’d been through much worse when I was an academic advisor at a Christian university. Racism, sexism, harassment, and workplace bullying were sadly norms in that environment. However, some of what I’ve experienced as a Black educator hasn’t been normal … It doesn’t seem normal to be the only Black educator in my department – in a predominantly Black school. One of my Black colleagues once said, “It should look like a Tyler Perry movie in here.” But it doesn’t. It didn’t feel normal being reprimanded in a meeting (during my second year of teaching) by an administrator who went in on...

Stop Saying Stupid Stuff To People Who Are Childless

I’m convinced that many people don’t think before they speak. Especially when it comes to interacting with people who don’t have children. Normally, I’ve held my peace with this and felt the need to solely address women when it comes to this topic, but lately this is a message that men can benefit from too. Stop saying stupid stuff to people who don’t have children . I know this might be a difficult task for those of you who are nosey, have concerns that have nothing to do with you, or may be unhappy in your own life, but stop with the questions, jokes, and reckless comments. Even if you believe you’re being funny, making conversation, or coming from a genuine place, you’re honestly out of line. Because someone not having children and why is none of your business. I don’t have children, and I honestly don’t know if I will, but as a woman, I’m good with my life either way. I’ll always be grateful for what I have instead of lamenting about what I don’t. Which is probably why getting olde...

The Day I Made A Will

When I was a teenager, I remember writing a list of my greatest fears. One of the things I listed was death. Looking back, it was an interesting item to list because inevitably, death is something each of us will face at some point in our lives. Even though it’s no longer a fear of mine, I understand why and how it’s not a comfortable thing for everyone to navigate. But regardless, this past summer I completed a detailed will. I signed it, had witnesses sign it, and got it notarized. As I was getting everything done, one of the witnesses looked at me and said, “You know, it’s just that you’re so young…” I’ve learned that death doesn’t care how young or how old you are. You can be five, fifteen, thirty, or fifty, and it’s still something that happens. Completing my will wasn’t scary. It gave me peace of mind having documentation in place stating my detailed directives and requests. A year ago, I had one of my kidneys removed. It was a surgery that came with risks that were presented cle...

Making Waves