Drop Everything And Read: Open Book

I’ve been a Jessica Simpson fan since I was a kid. I always thought she was the coolest, and I loved that she was a Christian pop singer who entered the mainstream and was so open and vocal about her faith and beliefs. Through the years, the world has seen this woman go from being a pop singer, to a reality star, and an actress, wife, divorcee, mom, and fashion designer – and I must say, her evolution has been inspiring. When I learned she dropped a memoir, I couldn’t wait to read it. I love a good memoir and reading about other people’s lives and inspiring stories, so Jessica’s didn’t disappoint. It’s honest, heartfelt, and endearing and it’s definitely a book worth diving into. If you’re looking for something good to read, Open Book is a cool choice. Check it out.

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...

Ditching Dating And Decentering Men

Today’s current dating climate is bizarre. It’s grown so bizarre, that men barely, if ever in some cases, will approach a woman in person and ask her out on a date. Instead, the new normal has become DM sliding, creeping on social media accounts, and liking photos to build romantic connections, which honestly doesn’t sound too romantic or appealing to me at all. As a child of the 90s and a teenager of the early 2000s, I miss and prefer the time when men interacted with women without hiding behind technology. There was something special about handwritten cards and notes, thoughtful dates, serendipity, and intentionality. After having some unpleasant encounters, embarrassing moments, and failed set ups (from well meaning people who believe I need to be partnered), I’ve decided, that now, at 36, to choose me. I’m ditching dating and decentering men. I’m no longer interested in meeting anyone, dating, or creating space to prioritize a relationship. I’ve never been a male-centered woman any...

A Taste At Milk & Honey

I can always appreciate a delicious brunch outing. And Milk & Honey is a brunch spot that surpassed my expectations. I’d originally heard about this location via TikTok, and when I spotted their chicken and waffles, I just knew I had to visit. When I walked into the restaurant, I immediately noticed the lovely ambiance – the music and art were everything. I was also greeted by the lovely hostess and smell of incredible food. I already knew I’d be moving forward with the chicken and waffles, but I had no idea how refreshing the lavender lemonade would be. It may be one of the best drinks I’ve ever had. If you’re in the Hampton Roads area and seeking a nice brunch spot, check out Milk & Honey.

Making Waves