Some days aren’t planned. They just happen.

What started as a trip into the city I’d been looking forward to — one I’d imagined enjoying alongside Brace — took a turn before it even began. He was sick. Field trip over. Mom mode activated.

I picked him up, got him home, made sure he was good… and then I made a decision.

I WENT BACK OUT!

ya girl could’ve called it quits and said maybe that’s a sign to stay home‍ ‍

but NOT TA DAY!!! I took that as my sign to PUSHHH THROUGH OKAY!

And bless Priscilla — because I know she was wondering if I was actually coming back. LOL. That’s the thing about having the right people in your corner though. No pressure. No shade. Just patience, love, and complete support. She held the day for me while I handled mom duty, and when I finally walked through that door, it was like no time had passed at all.

That kind of friendship is rare. And I don’t take it lightly.

Not out of guilt or obligation — but because I’d carved out that time, and I deserved to use it. Sometimes showing up for yourself looks like going back anyway.

Sometimes the best days start with a little pivot.

So we grabbed our shades, put on comfortable walking shoes, and headed out to explore.

First Stop: Lunch At YEppa

The atmosphere, the people watching, the energy—it’s the kind of place where you sit a little longer than planned and enjoy the moment. (Pinky’s up….. Cheers to Us!)

An Unexpected Conversation:

One of the most interesting parts of the day came from an impromptu conversation at B. M. Franklin & Co. with the owner, Brandon, and his wife.

What started as a simple Hello quickly turned into a casual discussion about marriage, business, and life.

One thing that stuck with me:

Running a business is almost like raising another child.

We talked about the importance of dating yourself, protecting time for date nights, and creating peace at home—especially when life and work can be so stimulating and demanding.

We also talked about something many women navigating career pivots understand deeply: patience with yourself while you’re evolving. Building a business. Raising a family. Creating a life you love. None of it happens overnight!

“CREATE THE LIFE YOU WANT TO LIVE.” - ANGELA MULLEN BATSON

A Stop at Eichholtz.

Before heading to Gypsy Kitchen, we made a quick stop into Eichholtz.

At Eichholtz, it’s not just décor. It’s an experience you live, feel, and carry with you.

Every corner was filled with stunning pieces, rich textures, and thoughtful details that made me immediately imagine how they could transform a space. The moment reminded me how powerful good design can be.

While we were there, I had the chance to catch up with Darren, and what started as a quick hello turned into one of those meaningful conversations about life, work, and the journey we’re all on.

Having spent over ten years working in retail, these conversations hit home. I know firsthand that the best people in retail don’t just sell—they show up with passion, create experiences, and make people feel seen.

We talked about career pivots, trusting the journey, and allowing yourself the space to grow into new seasons of life.

And what stayed with me most: be yourself and spread love everywhere you go. When you show up that way—at work, in friendships, and in life—it always finds its way back to you. I literally left with a coffee table book, so it’ll forever be in my home, inspiring me to keep showing up with passion and love… and to meet someone new everywhere you go. Our first meet already felt like a lifetime!

A Rooftop Moment at Gypsy Kitchen

Next came a quick snack at Gypsy Kitchen. We found ourselves on the rooftop at Gypsy’s, sharing mussels and conversation.

Now, I love seafood — but I’d never tried mussels. In the middle of the moment, Priscilla made it very clear: it’s all about the sauce. She wasn’t going to let the experience be ruined by improper eating.

And just like that, a simple dining moment became a lesson.

It’s all about the sauce… not the mussels.

Sometimes the real value in life isn’t the thing itself—it’s the experience surrounding it.

I was too present to take a photo, but honestly (some of the best moments in life never get captured)

A Quick Style Stop: Rag & Bone

A quick visit into Rag & Bone introduced me to the Miramar Collection — better late than never.

If you’re like me and weren’t familiar, here’s the idea.

Quote Courtesy of Rag and Bone’s Website.

For moms especially, it’s a reminder that everyday style doesn’t have to be complicated to feel elevated. I’m personally calling it elevated fashion — because that’s exactly what it is. If you’re a busy mom-on-the-go this is for you. Sports Moms say goodbye to game day leggings and Hello Miramar! Soft, Comfortable & Elevated!

Final Stop: Moda’s Event

The day wrapped up at an event hosted by Moda.

One piece that immediately caught my eye was a puffer that gave me major Missy Elliott vibes. Bold. Statement-making. Slightly unexpected. I had to try it on for myself to get the full experience — so I passed my purse to Priscilla and went inside the oversized unisex leather puffer priced at around $450ish

Honestly… these are often the pieces that make style fun.

Days like this remind me that inspiration doesn’t always come from a perfectly planned schedule. Sometimes it shows up in a spontaneous conversation, a moment of reflection over lunch, noticing a new trend while browsing a store, or simply taking the time to step into the city and experience something different.

Style, business, and life are often more connected than we realize. And sometimes the best ideas come when you step away from the routine.

Honestly? This trip wore me out like a baby. Mama was tired.

But days like today are exactly why I keep showing up…

— Live Well. Live Blessed. Live in Style.

Said Yes Anyway!