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#WNJHome | Home Decor that Makes a Difference with Macy’s Heart of Haiti

November 30, 2015 by Whitney Leave a Comment

Hubs and I are constantly trying to get our new place in order before the New Year. We’re doing a great job and really, there isn’t much left to do or purchase. However when I was gifted this beautiful handcrafted vase from Macy’s Heart of Haiti line, I knew it’d be the perfect home decor addition for us. Created by one of Macy’s 550 Haitian artisans, this vase is stunning in person. It’s also very well made and fits the aesthetic of our home perfectly. Thanks to hubs idea, we decided to place the vase near our entrance and add a few branches inside.

Purchase HERE

Macy’s Heart of Haiti collection has several price points and product selections to shop from. There’s an under $30 section as well as an array of candles and other home decor items. One of my focuses in 2016 is to purchase more items (clothing, home decor, etc.) from small business owners, as well as purchase items that makes a difference. Ethical purchases can do so much good for so many people and I’m determined to continue supporting certain artisans and merchants in the New Year.

Ethical purchases do so much good for so many people. #GiftsthatGiveHope

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After researching this product, I found out that Haiti has an estimated 400,000 artisans who rely solely on handcrafted goods as a source of income. After the devastating earthquake in Haiti, Macy’s began carrying this product line. Macy’s Heart of Haiti now employs 550 artisans, providing economic support to their 4,500 extended family members and others. Only available at select Macy’s locations, here’s where you can shop for your very own handcrafted item:

Herald Square
Downtown Brooklyn
Downtown DC’s Metro Center
Chicago’s State Street
San Francisco’s Union Park
Downtown Seattle
Dallas Gallaria
Downtown Portland
Atlanta’s Lenox Square
Dallas Galleria Mall
Miami Dadeland

Our home is decorated with several meaningful items, photos and other memorabilia that we hold very close to our hearts. We purposefully decorated this way and the addition of the handcrafted Haitian vase was absolutely perfect! From the family photos, to the picture I took in Egypt with my grandfather’s camera (that he sits on top of a stack of his old books), to the couch passed down from our grandmother, to our family Bibles, most of the items in our living area have a meaning and purpose. We couldn’t be more pleased; the space is warm, inviting and very “us”.

So tell me, have you seen Macy’s Heart of Haiti collection? Have you made any ethical purchases this year? Let me know!

Be sure to take a look the collection and browse the items. Many of the sections make great Christmas gifts! Regardless of your purchases this year or next, be sure to give some thought to making more ethical and meaningful purchases to support local artisans and small business owners. Until tomorrow, stay blessed and be safe…XO!

P.S. For even more information on Heart of Haiti, watch the brief video below!

** This post is sponsored by Everywhere Agency; however, all thoughts and opinions express are my own. **

#WNJHome | Nordstrom Home Decor Must Haves

October 15, 2015 by Whitney 2 Comments

It’s been almost 2 months since hubs and I moved into our new place. Thankfully, the process is coming together wonderfully. I’m happy that the “major things” have been purchased and unpacked. Whew! This move has rekindled my love for home decor, so I’ve been searching for a few last minute odds and ends to complete the moving process. That leads me to sharing 4 Nordstrom Home Decor Must Haves. Yes, Nordstrom. I love the store for clothing, accessories, and now home decor! While some of the items are priced a bit above my budget, I did happen to find 4 affordable must haves for our new abode.

Crosley Record Player, $80 – We’re huge music lovers so we quickly agreed that this record player was the perfect addition to our home. I cannot wait to play old school records while cooking or having the songs playing in the background while we entertain friends and family.

Voluspa Mini Candles, $8 – This Macaron Voluspa candle smells delicious. I ordered one a few months back and said I wasn’t going to burn it until we moved. Now that we’re in our new place, I burn it morning and night in our bathroom. It smells simply divine and it’s the perfect size…and so pretty too!

Jewelry/Trinket Tray, $14 – The first thing I do when I get home from work is take off my jewelry. What better way to store it than in a cute, girly jewelry tray like this one!

Home State Glass Coasters (Set of 4), $38 – I grew up with a mother who made us use coasters whenever we had something to drink. I’ve continued that rule in our home, lol. I usually thrift my coasters but these unique ones were a splurge I was willing to make. LOVE THEM!

Record Player // Voluspa Candle // Jewelry Tray // State Glass Coasters

So tell me, do you like my affordable Nordstrom home decor picks? Let me know!

Feel free to also let me know where else you shop for affordable home decor items. I have a few more places and items to share with you this year, but I always love hearing/reading your suggestions. Until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Lifestyle | Downsizing + Affordable Home Decor

July 21, 2015 by Whitney 7 Comments

Darrius and I couldn’t be more excited about our upcoming move! After several conversations, we finally decided that downsizing to a smaller apartment is the smartest option for us right now. When we first got married, I was gung ho about having a two bedroom apartment; after all, I needed that extra bedroom for office space. After two years I started to realize that I really wasn’t using the 2nd bedroom as an office, at all. Instead, hubs uses the room to iron his clothes for work in the morning. I store a few things in there, mostly clothes, but it’s just not the best use of the space. Recently we’ve vowed to only pay for space that we know we’re going to use. Downsizing to a one bedroom was our final decision. So what better time to start searching for affordable home décor items, right?

We also have plans to move into a home in the next 3-4 years and to put it simply, the amount we’re paying now will not allow us to save as much as we need to buy a home within that timeframe. So the decision to downsize and get serious about saving is where we are. Needless to say, I’ve been excited to start apartment shopping, just for a few items. We’re blessed to have the big items already, but bathroom accessories, kitchen needs and a few other odds and ends are needed. Therefore, I’ve been browsing and shopping for affordable home decor items and H&M was my first stop.

Affordable home decor items from @HM. #wnjhome

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2 Pack Knobs (Other Colors Available)

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I decided H&M was a good start because of the affordable price points and great selections. We’ve scored affordable home decor items that are chic, minimal in design, and functional. The items we’ve picked for came to $27.98; not bad, huh?! Of course, this is just the beginning, but it’s a good start.

Home decor should be affordable; no need to break the bank. #wnjhome

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We’re also looking at H&M for bathroom towels and rugs, a shower curtain, and possibly a duvet/fancy quilt. The key is to shop H&M’s home décor sale section; they’re deals are sometimes unbeatable and the quality is superb. If you’re in need of simple, minimally designed home décor items, H&M is a great starting place.

So tell me, where do you shop for affordable home décor items? Do you like our picks from H&M? Let me know!

I’m really excited about the process and thankfully, Darrius is getting excited too. Until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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#WNJTravels | Home 2 Suites by Hilton, Dover DE

April 15, 2015 by Whitney 6 Comments

Last month hubby and I traveled to Dover, Delaware to visit his family. Being the hospitality expert and professional he is, I usually leave the hotel accommodations to the him. For this trip, he planned for us to stay at the new Home 2 Suites by Hilton and I was really impressed. Not only was the hotel clean, but the staff was friendly, helpful and very accommodating.

Only a few miles from Dover Downs Casino, the hotel is located right on DuPont Highway. I immediately got a modern and eco-friendly feeling when we arrived. The front desk area and lobby was clean, bright and inviting. The front desk agent let us know that breakfast and WiFi was complimentary and that each room was a suite with a full kitchenette. We didn’t get a chance to go for a swim, but the hotel also has an indoor saline pool and a gym.

The next time you’re in Delaware, be sure to stay at the @Home2Suites in Dover! #wnjtravels

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Entering the suite was delightful as well. I was intrigued with the wall paper, room decor and cleanliness of the rooms. I also liked the separation of the bedroom and living area. There was a sturdy curtain-like divider hanging from the ceiling that separated the bed from the lounge area – a perfect feature for families with smaller children. Speaking of the bed, let’s just say I sunk into the covers and fluffy pillows and fell asleep without hesitation. The desk area was spacious enough for a laptop and mini work station setup; another bonus and great for those guests traveling for work.

So tell me, have you stayed at a Home 2 Suites by Hilton before? What do you think about the pics and review? Let me know!

All in all, the trip itself was enjoyable and the hotel stay was wonderful. There’s no place like home, but staying somewhere like Home 2 Suites made me feel comfortable and “at home like”. With the mini kitchenette, room divider and other accommodations I would suggest this hotel brand to those who want that home-like feeling while traveling. I’m sure you’ll love it! Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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September 2020 Recap

September 29, 2020 by Whitney Leave a Comment

Well, we’ve made it to the end of yet another month. It seems like these past few months have come and gone like the wind, but I’m not complaining. Thankfully, I’ve had some really great moments and above all else, I’m grateful to be here to tell about it. That said, let’s get into my September 2020 recap:

3 Things I Learned in September

What I give my energy to I give life to.
The more I simplify my life, the happier I am and the more at peace I become.
“Just because you didn’t ask for it doesn’t mean you can’t handle it.” – Steve Furtick

*Click here to read the caption for this picture.*

3 Things I Loved About September

Having dinner with my mother
Celebrating my grandmother’s 77th birthday
Spending time with my in-laws in Delaware
BONUS: A weekend staycation with hubby

3 Things I’m Looking Forward to in October

Refreshing our Living Room
- Darrius and I have been wanting new seating for our living room for about a year now. Every few weeks we go back and forth about purchasing a new sofa, but we’ve finally decided to just refresh the space in other ways. I purchased some items to give the room a tiny makeover, and I’m really looking forward to seeing it all come together.
Date Night
- Weekends used to be all about going to the movies for us. We also enjoyed an occasional weekday date night to a local restaurant. Obviously, times have changed. These days, our date nights are spent on our living room couch, binge-watching one of our favorite Hulu shows, or a new Netflix movie. While we both enjoy our time together, we miss being “out and about”. So, we’ve decided to (safely) venture out a bit this fall. Whether it’s an outdoor dining experience, a drive-in movie, or a weekend staycation, Darrius and I are looking forward to reigniting our beloved date nights.
Starting a Family Scrapbook
- I love family photos and it’s a goal of mine to create a scrapbook that I can pass down to our children. I believe creating and capturing memories with loved ones is important. So, I look forward to creating a “visual journal” of memories that will be in our family for years and years to come.

*One of my favorite pictures with my FaFa (grandfather)*

I hope you were able to find pockets of happiness and moments of joy this month. Enjoy the last days of September while you can, and get ready to welcome a promising new month full of unexpected blessings.

Brandy & Monica Verzuz Battle | A Win for the Culture

September 10, 2020 by Whitney Leave a Comment

If you don’t know by now, I’m a child of the 90s. I grew up during a time when box braids, bangs, baggy jeans, babydoll dresses, and bucket hats were all “on trend”, at the same time. The airwaves were flooded with hip-hop and gangsta rap, girl groups and boybands, and, of course, R&B.

90s R&B will always hold a special place in my heart, but the leading ladies of this genre are undoubtedly Brandy and Monica. The two songstresses “battled” on August 31st during their session of Verzuz. For the first time since the Verzuz series began back in March, there were 1.2 million live views reported. Thus proving that Brandy and Monica are indeed 90s music royalty.

So, what are my thoughts on their session? In a word, EPIC. It was definitely a win for the (Black) culture. I thoroughly enjoyed the stroll down memory lane, in the comfort of my own home, where singing lead and background vocals at the top of my lungs wasn’t frowned upon. Song after song, I was transported back to my childhood.

Related: 5 Albums that Helped Shape my Life

Watching these two vocal giants interact was also refreshing. Although I did detect some standoffish and uncomfortable vibes throughout, I appreciated their commitment to the culture and to their fans. Their “rocky relationship” has been talked about in the press for years. But at the end of the day, they both carved out a lane for themselves in the music industry and bodied the charts, hit after hit. So, witnessing them come together and share some of their best and most memorable songs was a treat. And they say Black women can’t get along…

While I love both artists and their voices, my love for Brandy reigns supreme. From an early age, I connected with her almost instantly. My love for braids came from swooning over Brandy’s braided styles throughout the 90s. And when it comes to her voice, it’s no contest for me. Brandy’s warm, rich, and sultry tone is like butter. Her harmonies and vocal stacking abilities are unmatched, and her albums, especially Full Moon, have helped me overcome some pivotal moments during my lifetime.

When it’s all said and done, there’s a winner in every battle. From her extensive catalogue to her alluring vocals, it’s Brandy for me. And it always will be.

11 Gratitude Journal Prompts and 11 Daily Affirmations

July 23, 2020 by Whitney Leave a Comment

For the past few years, mornings have become my favorite part of the day. I usually wake up between 5:45 and 6.45 during the week, depending on the day. I like to get my “me time” in while it’s quiet and still. One thing I look forward to the most each morning is journaling.

My gratitude journal focuses on gratitude and affirmations. Every day I jot down at least three things I’m grateful for, along with at least one affirmation. I’m no stranger to gratitude journaling, but writing daily affirmations is something new. I didn’t realize how powerful writing and speaking affirmations was until late last year. I’ve always known about the practice but, making it part of my daily routine allows me to move about my day in a more positive and confident manner.

Gratitude journaling allows me to dwell on my blessings. This practice grounds me and gives me a necessary wake-up call some days. I also believe gratitude journaling has increased my happiness. After I lost my son, it was difficult for me to find happiness within, let alone in my everyday life. Once I resumed daily gratitude journaling, my mood slowly began to shift to a much happier place.

Below are 11 gratitude journal prompts and 11 daily affirmations. I hope the journal prompts nudge you to begin your own daily gratitude practice, and I pray that you reap positive the benefits of speaking and writing daily affirmations.

11 Gratitude Journal Prompts

What makes you happy to be alive?
Write a thank you letter to someone.
List 5 things you love about your home.
What 3 songs always make you feel good?
What about your job or career are you most grateful for?
What do you love most about the neighborhood you live in?
Name 5 new things you’ve learned within the last 5 months.
List 10 things you have now that you didn’t have 5 years ago.
Write about a time you experienced kindness from a stranger.
Who are you most grateful for in your life at the moment and why?
List 10 major life accomplishments that you’re proud to have achieved.

11 Daily Affirmations

I am confident in my abilities.
My body needs and deserves rest.
My life will inspire and encourage others.
I am a Queen and a descendant of royalty.
God is love and His love for me is endless.
I accept, appreciate, and approve of myself.
I will not stress over the things I cannot control.
I will not dim my light to make others comfortable
I am doing my best and my best is good enough.
My body is a temple and it deserves to be treated with love and respect.
My life is beautiful and my future is filled with endless blessings and opportunities.

11 Gratitude Journal Prompts + 11 Daily Affirmations

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What I’m Currently Watching on Hulu and Netflix

July 22, 2020 by Whitney 2 Comments

Along with my routine(s) and wardrobe, I’ve also made some changes when it comes to what TV shows I watch. My main focus has been finding shows that are binge-worthy and light-hearted, with a splash of drama. Nothing too heavy, too complicated, or too dark. In this season, I’m trying to laugh and enjoy as much as possible.

Since “being home”, I’ve been able to catch up on some of my favorite shows, as well as become acquainted with some new one’s. Back in May, I took advantage of the Netflix + Hulu + Disney+ package deal. For two TV-loving fanatics, this was a real treat for my husband and me. Plus, it’s gotten us one step closer to getting rid of cable. Tax

Here are three of the shows I’ve been currently watching on Hulu and Netflix:

1. Insecure (Hulu + HBO)

I’m late to the party. I know. But thanks to Hulu, I was able to watch all four seasons of Insecure with a 7-day free HBO pass. I started watching on a Thursday and was done by the following Tuesday afternoon. I would’ve finished sooner, but I had to wait for my husband to watch. He became a fan of the show after episode three.

I thoroughly enjoyed watching the two main characters, Issa and Molly, grow from season to season. The show does a great job of exploring a friendship between two Black women, navigating through the murk and mere of everyday life. My husband and I also appreciated the very obvious homage Issa pays to the Black Los Angeles experience. And, thanks in large part to both musical geniuses Raphael Saadiq and Solange, the show features some delightful and refreshing musical content.

2. Greenleaf (Netflix + OWN)

I’ve been a fan of this show since its inception. The Greenleaf’s, a well-to-do Black family steeped in faith and plenty of mess, are trying desperately to hold onto their family home this season. With relationships ending and old flames back and up to no good, I’m glued to my seat week after week.

Lynn Whitfield’s character, Lady Mae, is definitely my favorite. Whitfield brings her A-game while portraying the role of Lady Mae and her sly and cutting one-liners never disappoint. This show is a reminder that those who are faith-filled churchgoers are still very human and very imperfect, just like everyone else.

3. 90 Day Fiancé (Hulu + TLC)

My husband stumbled upon this show during one of his many Hulu scrolls. This reality television show follows couples who’ve applied for or received a K-1 visa. From there, they have 90 days to marry one another. The entire process and what these couples are willing to do and give up truly fascinates me. I do, however, believe that some of these couples really make less than smart decisions when it comes to “finding love”. All in all, the show is certainly entertaining.

There are so many other shows I could’ve added, but I wanted to keep this list short and sweet. I’ll be sure to share more of my favorites in upcoming posts. Let me know what you’ve been watching!

3 Shows to Watch on Hulu + Netflix

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