Wow, December 2023, huh? It feels like ages and a lifetime of change since then. Typically, I’d start with an apology for being MIA, but this past year has been all about unlearning that habit—turns out, I’ve been apologizing for simply existing, and it’s time that stopped. The horoscopes for 2024 promised all good things for someone with an 8 path number and a Scorpio like me—talk about high expectations! But let’s just say the universe had its own “lit” curriculum in mind. This year has been one heck of a teacher in disciplines I didn’t even know I needed. For instance, I’ve realized I don’t have a disciplined bone in my body. Does anyone know where I can get one?
Among the revelations, one tough pill to swallow has been my fears about motherhood. I adore my friends’ kids—I’m the cool auntie, after all—but seeing the village it takes sometimes makes me wonder, who’ll be there when I’m the one in need?
Then there’s the big move with my partner, which was supposed to be our step towards a planned future—saving, planning expenses, dreaming up our parenthood chapter. Plot twist: none of that happened. Our lives took unexpected turns; I found myself grappling with the nuances of a relationship where shared dreams started to feel more like my solo script. The financial partnership we envisioned turned into a one-woman show trying to balance the books.
But hey, life’s still lit. Despite the new guest (hello, arthritis in my ankle), losing weight has been a silver lining. I’ve gone from 366 to 239 pounds, reducing knee pressure by hundreds of pounds per step! Though, living with a body that’s drastically different is a day-by-day learning curve. Still, life insists on being lit, even when it’s heavy.
This summer was a whirlwind of slime on furniture (courtesy of my temporary squad of four under eight), camp drop-offs, and nightly routines. And amidst that chaos, we celebrated my grandfather’s 100th birthday—a beautiful milestone. Yet, life threw its curveballs with sudden goodbyes too painful to digest: my cousin Dada, vibrant and full of life, died in a tragic accident that still feels surreal. Shortly after, Tiffany Harris, an incredible influencer and beacon of strength, lost her battle with colon cancer—a reminder of my own fears as someone with severe colon issues. Then came the news about Melvin Booker, my high school confidant, who succumbed to life, leaving us way too soon.
Here I am in October 2024, riding through waves of uncertainty but surprisingly grounded. My upcoming birthday has me counting blessings like never before: a pivot in my career, improved health, mental clarity, a new puppy named Yoko, and tools that help keep my executive functioning on track. Life’s lit, and though the sadness isn’t shy, I’m navigating through a reality that’s clearer yet harder to define.
I’m learning to tune out the pessimism and noise, focusing on what fills the glass—at least to halfway. While I can’t promise more frequent updates, I want to deeply thank you for your love and support through my highs and lows. Here’s to finding more light, more clarity, and, hopefully, more reasons to celebrate. Catch you on the flip side!
To everyone reading this, searching for your own spark in the shadows—keep looking. Even on the darkest days, there’s something lit waiting to be discovered. It might be a small win, a moment of joy, or a lesson that shapes your tomorrow. Embrace it, celebrate it, and let it light your way. We’re all in this together, finding our paths, lighting up as we go. See you soon, and remember, look for the LIT in your life!
