Whitney Nic James

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Events | Girl Scouts Nation’s Capital Keys to Leadership Conference

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Last Saturday, I had to opportunity to check off one of the last items on my 2016 vision board. I was invited to speak on the Girl Scouts Nation’s Capital Keys to Leadership Conference Blogger’s Panel at American University. We discussed blogging and entrepreneurship to a group of excited, intelligent and entergetic young women. When I was presented with the opportunity I didn’t hesitate. I’d been preparing and praying for an opportunity like this all year, so I knew it was meant to be!

Girl Scouts Nation's Capital Keys to Leadership Conference

Girl Scouts Nation's Capital Keys to Leadership Conference

The panel included women from all walks of life, which was very refreshing. Despite its diverse nature, it was evident that each panelist was extremely passionate about her craft. Throughout the afternoon, we explained to the girls the importance of being yourself, setting realistic goals and being safe while socializing/posting online. Because it was a leadership confrence, I was sure to include my famous “Dare to be Different” speech. Thanks to my father teaching me that very important lesson in high school, it’s one I’ll never forget and always live by.

When you unapologetically walk in your purpose, it feels amazing! #wnjinspired

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I was unsure how the girls would respond to the message of daring to be different. Let’s be honest, talking and getting through to middle and high school girls can sometimes be a challenge. However when I brought up the topic during a breakout session, they were all ears. One young lady even asked for examples on how to be different when posting on social media if the message she was trying to convey was the same as someone else. Great question, right?!

Girl Scouts Nation's Capital Keys to Leadership Conference

Girl Scouts Nation's Capital Keys to Leadership Conference

So tell me, what are some of the goals you’ve set and met for 2016? Let me know! 

All in all, being part of this event was truly an honor and a blessing. For me, there’s no greater feeling than unapologetically walking in your purpose and positively shaping the minds of today’s young women. Be sure to visit The Girl Scouts Nation’s Capital Facebook Page and website for more information and to find out how you can get involved. As always thanks for reading and until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Lifestyle | 5 Things You Need to Survive 2017

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Have you started preparing for the New Year? If not, now is the time to buckle down and get started. Along with my goals and action steps, there are a few tangible items I’ll need to help make 2017 an amazing and productive year. Here are 5 items that we can all use to help us survive the New Year!

Related: 23 Songs to Add to Your Workout Playlist

5 Things You Need to Survive the New Year

1. The Bible | We all need something to keep us on track and spirit filled during the New Year. For me, that something is the Bible. Studying the Bible gives me direction and helps keep me on track throughout the year.

2. Blank Journal | I try my best to jot down an idea, prayer request, recipe or blog post idea when it comes to me, right away. If you’re more of a digital notetaker, using certain note-taking apps on your phone, laptop or iPad works too! If you prefer keeping and taking notes the old fashion way like me, a blank journal is a must for the New Year.

3. Calendar/or Agenda | If you’re anything like me, you have several dates and events to remember. Research and find the perfect calendar/or agenda that works for your lifestyle. I have a family calendar that hangs in our kitchen, as well as a personal agenda that I can carry with me every day. Both keep me organized, and somewhat sane, throughout the year.

5 Things You Need to Survive 2017

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4. Running or Walking Shoes | As I mentioned in this post, I’m gearing up to start regularly working out again. I really miss walking and being active, so a new pair of walking shoes will definitely motivate me to get started! Starting the New Year off already having some kind of physical activities planned is always a great idea.

5. A Positive Attitude | Preparing for the New Year can be daunting and stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. With a positive attitude and mindset, the preparing for the New Year can actually be fun and exciting. Take a deep breath, think about the big picture and get ready for an amazing and productive year!

So tell me, what are some things you’re going to need to survive 2017? Let me know! 

Thanks for stopping by and I look forward to reading your responses. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Personal Style | Melissa McCarthy Floral Tunic and Denim

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At the beginning of the season, I decided to browse the Nordstrom Rack website for some new tops to add to my fall/winter wardrobe. Knowing that I’d probably find a lot of spring and summer items on sale, that’s where I looked first. After only browsing for a few minutes, I spotted this vibrant Melissa McCarthy floral tunic. I didn’t care how much it was, I just knew I had to have it!

I’d already figured out how to wear the top at least 3 times and thankfully, it was in my size. There was nothing left to do but add it to my cart! I knew the item would fit, thanks to trying on a few Melissa McCarthy items before, so I was very pleased when the floral masterpiece arrived at my front door. I tried it on immediately and of course, it was perfect.

Melissa McCarthy Floral Tunic and Denim

Plus Size Winter Outfit

Cape: Harvé Benard, Thrifted (Another Option) // Sunnies: H&M (Similar Option) // Clutch: Love, Cortnie (Same)

Melissa McCarthy Floral Tunic and Denim

Have you ever had an item of clothing that you just KNOW you’re going to wear constantly? Well, that’s how I feel about this tunic. It’s the most comfortable top I own and the oversized fit is perfection. Anything that’s flowy and not tight to my body, I’m a fan. The fact that it was on sale for less than $40 is also a major plus!

If you don’t love it and if you can’t wear it at least 3 times, don’t buy it. #wnjstyle

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These days I’m very particular about what I purchase. If I don’t love it and if I can’t see myself wearing it more than 3 times, I’m not going to buy it. Of course, I make exceptions for accessories, shoes and some one-of-a-kind pieces, but for everyday wardrobe items that’s my rule.

Winter Outfit Details

Melissa McCarthy Floral Tunic and Denim

Tunic: Melissa McCarthy, Nordstrom (Other Options from Designer) // Denim: JCP (Another Option) // Flats: Sam Edelman, Nordstrom Rack (Cute Option)

Plus Size Winter Outfit

So tell me, what do you think about my Melissa McCarthy floral tunic? Do you follow the same rule as I do when shopping? Let me know! 

I can’t wait to read your responses! I hope you all had an enjoyable holiday weekend and until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Spiritual Wellness | 7 Simple Reasons to be Thankful Everyday

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I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving! Darrius and I enjoyed our time celebrating the holiday with his family in Delaware and now, we’re back in Maryland gearing up for a quiet and relaxing holiday weekend. But before I start my weekend, I want to leave you with 7 simple things to be thankful for every day. 

Related: 5 Ways to Practice Gratitude + 5 Scriptures on Gratefulness

Reasons to be Thankful Everyday

1. Family, friends & loved ones. | When all is said and done, family is all you have. It’s truly a blessing to have people who support, uplift, pray for and even lovingly correct you. Blood relatives, in-laws, friends who have become like family…be thankful for them all, every day.

2. Clean water. | Having clean drinking water is something I’ve taken for granted for years. However this year, thanks to our dear friends Rich & Erika Akwo, I’ve realized how bless we are to have access to clean water. I’m thankful to have clean water to cook with, shower in and to drink. From the water crisis in Flint, Michigan to the water crisis in Cameroon, I have a new found appreciate for something as simple as clean water. For more information on how you can help provide clean water to those in Cameroon, read more here.

No matter what, there is always something to be thankful for. Always. #gratitude

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3. Pets. | Although we don’t have any pets just yet, I have several friends and family members who do. I’ve seen firsthand how having a pet can bring so much joy to one’s home. That’s definitely something to be thankful for!

4. Your gifts & talents. | I’m not sure about you, but there have been times when I’ve taken my gifts and talents for granted. Now that I’m more aware of what they are, I try to use them to inspire and uplift others as often as possible.

7 Simple Reasons to be Thankful Every Day #gratitude

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5. The internet. | Being able to connect with family and friends whenever you want, because of the internet, is definitely something simple to be thankful for. Being able to know what’s going on in the world, thanks to social media, without having to wait for the local news report is priceless!

6. Music. | Music has the power to uplift, comfort, bring people together and do so much more! For that, I am thankful.

7. Your ability to read this post. | Being able to read this post means that you’re alert, capable and above all, it means that you are ALIVE.

So tell me, what are some simple things that you can be thankful for everyday? Let me know! 

Thanks for reading and I can’t wait to read your responses. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Personal Style | 5 Reasons Why Having a Minimal Wardrobe Makes Life Easier

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Before I started my minimal wardrobe journey, I did a lot of research. I said that I would take things slow and I promised myself that I would do things my way. Months into this new personal style change, I can say that I’m very pleased with my progress. I’m starting to see how this small change has made my life a lot less stressful.

It’s safe to say that creating a minimal wardrobe has made my life a lot less stressful. I don’t know many people who wouldn’t want to make their lives less stressful, so here are 5 reasons why having a minimal wardrobe will make your life easier.

Related: The Start of My Minimal Wardrobe Journey

5-items-every-minimalist-closet-should-have-6
1. Less Stress | How many times do you wake up in the morning and stress about what you’re going to wear? Most of that stress probably comes from having too many options. Creating a minimal wardrobe can easily cut your wardrobe in half, which will make getting dressed in the mornings a lot less stressful.

2. Less Expensive | Over the past 8 months I’ve spent less on my wardrobe than I have in years. In the beginning, I got rid of a lot of unworn items and refilled my closet with certain key pieces, but once that process was over the spending dwindled. I no longer have the urge to make compulsive purchases because I know exactly what I have in my wardrobe, and I know exactly how to style (and re-style) each piece.

3. Less Stuff | Having less stuff makes #’s 1 and 2 possible. Need I say more?

Having a minimal wardrobe makes life a lot less stressful. Here’s why! #wnjstyle

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creating a minimal wardrobe

Having a minimal wardrobe

Denim: Torrid (Another Option) // Sweater: Bobeau, Nordstrom Rack (Another Option) // Purse: Nine West, Gifted // Flats: Same Edelman, Nordstrom Rack

denim-and-black

4. More Freedom | Having a minimal wardrobe gives you the freedom to be creative. With just a few key pieces you’d be surprised at how many different outfits you can create using accessories, shoes and more. I find that I actually have more creative freedom with less clothing options. Sounds strange, I know, but it’s true! Just take a look at how many ways I’ve restyled the same pieces this year.

5. More Time | Having fewer clothing options frees up your time in the mornings, and in the evenings, to get more things done. Think about it… You probably spend about 20-30 minutes going back and forth with yourself about what to wear to work. Imagine having fewer choices to choose from. You can literally cut your morning “getting ready” time in half if you already know what’s in your closet, and how to style those items.

5 Reasons Why Having a Minimal Wardrobe Makes Life Easier #wnjstyle

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If you take a look at the outfits above, you’ll see how I styled 2 of the same sweaters, in different colors, 4 different ways. Thanks to accessories, shoe choices, different pants/bottoms and hairstyles, each outfit is perfect for a separate occasion. If this isn’t an example of a how building a minimal wardrobe can help create an easier and more simple lifestyle, I don’t know what is!

So tell me, do you think having a minimal wardrobe could help make your life a little easier? Let me know! 

Thanks for reading and don’t forget to let me know your thoughts on creating a minimal wardrobe. I’d love to know your thoughts! Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Lifestyle | 23 Songs You Need on Your Workout Playlist 

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Earlier this summer I made the decision to take control of my health. I was fed up with feeling sluggish, sick of getting bi-weekly migraines and I was over having zero energy. So, from the beginning of July to the end of September I began walking at least 1 mile 5 times a week, weekends included. I worked my way up to almost 3 miles and incorporated frequent Nike+ Training workouts into my routine. My progress was slow and steady and I was beginning to notice subtle changes in the energy, as well as the shape of my body. Unfortunately “life happened”. I found myself unable to dedicate much time to consistently working out. Instead I focused my energy elsewhere for a few months. Although it was necessary for me to do so, I really missed working out.

You owe it to yourself to live a healthy and happy life! #selfcare

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Thankfully things have slowed down a bit, which means I can finally get back to my workout routine! I never thought I would miss working out. The feeling I get after I finish a 2 mile walk, as corny as it may sound, is amazing. I also feel a little pain and I’m usually exhausted, but finishing workout is an amazing feeling nonetheless. One thing that will definitely get me back on track is creating the perfect workout playlist. I cannot walk, run or do any type of exercise without good music. I usually separate my list into 3 parts – Warm Up, Workout & Cool Down. Different songs and tempos for each phase of my workout is a must. That said, here are 23 songs perfect for any workout playlist!

the-perfect-workout-soundtrack-2

23 songs you need on your workout playlist, ASAP. #wnjplaylist

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WARM UP

  1. Body Party | Ciara
  2. Be Alright | Arianna Grande
  3. Controlla | Drake

WORKOUT

  1. Sorry | Beyoncé
  2. Hello, Good Morning | Diddy – Dirty Money & T.I.
  3. Get Right | Jennifer Lopez
  4. Freedom | Beyoncé
  5. Go Get It | Mary, Mary
  6. Win Again | Nicki Minaj
  7. Get Your Money Up | Keri Hilson
  8. Alright | Kendrick Lamar
  9. Something New | Zendaya
  10. 24K Magic | Burno Mars
  11. Push It | Rick Ross
  12. Get it on the Floor | DMX
  13. Brighter Day | Kirk Franklin
  14. No Limit | Usher
  15. Crazy | Kehlani
  16. Champion | Nicki Minaj, Nas & Drake
  17. Say Yes | Michelle Williams, Beyoncé & Kely Rowland

COOL DOWN

  1. Phone Down | Erykah Badu
  2. I Bet | Ciara
  3. Hindsight | Pieces of a Dream

So tell me, do you like my workout playlist? What are some of your favorite songs form your workout playlist? Let me know! 

As you can probably tell, I like to listen to a little gospel during my workouts. I find that hearing an uplifting song throughout my workout really keeps me going. Ending with a smooth jazz song is also something that may seem a little different. Because I usually end my workouts with stretching, I think it’s a perfect choice! Be sure to let me know what kind of music you listen to during your workouts; I’m always up for adding more songs. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Personal Style | September & October Outfit Recap

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November is here and the temperatures are slowly but surely beginning to feel like fall. I’m a huge fan of this season! Aside from the boots and capes, I love to feel the crisp fall air and nothing beats a cup of hot chocolate…with extra marshmallows, of course. I spent part of the weekend switching out some summer items and replacing them with chunky sweaters and knits. Looking back, I had a pretty stylish September and October. Here’s a quick outfit recap featuring my favorite looks!

* See Also, 3 Easy Ways to Simplify Your Wardrobe

I had fun styling a few prints and playing with accessories, but I pretty much stayed true to my simple style. Contrary to what some may think, minimal styling can easily be achieved during any season. Because of this, I plan to continue styling minimal outfits well into the fall and winter seasons.

You can achieve a minimal and simple style during any season. #wnjstyle

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Styling different prints and playing with accessories make minimal styling fun and unique. Wearing all black and mostly solid colors are staples for my personal style, but I do know how to make an outfit fun. After all, minimal style should never be boring.

* See Also, Minimal Wardrobe Lessons

So tell me, what was your favorite outfit? Let me know!

Thanks for reading and I hope you’re all enjoying the first week of November. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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#WNJBeauty | OZNaturals Facial Serum Review

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A few months ago I was approached to try a new facial serum from OZNaturals. Since I’ve become a fan of facial serums and oils this year, I was excited to try their Vitamin C serum. For about a month 1/2 I incorporated the product into my skin care regimen, day and night. Read ahead for my full OZNaturals review!

OZnaturals

Purchase, HERE

What’s in the product?

  • Vitamin C
  • Vitamin E
  • Green Tea
  • Witch Hazel
  • Jojoba Oil

What’s NOT in the product?

  • Potentially harmful synthetic chemicals
  • Petrochemicals
  • Parabens
  • Phthalates
  • Sulfates
Check out this beauty review on the OZ Naturals Vitamin C facial serum. #wnjbeauty

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Pros?

  • Several natural ingredients
  • Easy to apply
  • Small bottle (easy to store/travel with)
  • No harsh smell

Cons?

  • Slight sticky after serum drys
  • Subtle improvements; nothing drastic

OZNaturals Vitamin C Serum

What was my experience with the product? 

I used the serum after washing (and toning) my face and neck. The serum is a clear lightweight liquid that easily dissolved into my skin. While my face was smooth after applying, I noticed my skin was a little sticky after it dried. I wasn’t a fan of that aspect, but it wasn’t bad enough for me to stop using it. After using the product for about 3 weeks, I did notice a slight difference in my skin as far as it’s brightness. It wasn’t as noticeable or drastic as other serums I’ve tried, but I was pleased with the subtule positive improvemnt.

Would I purchase this product? Why or why not?

I might. I didn’t like the sticky after effect, but again it wasn’t unbearable. While it wouldn’t be my “go to” facial serum, I would use it as a backup. Becuase the bottle is small enough to fit just about anywhere, I might even pack it with me while traveling.

So tell me, have you used the OZNaturals Vitamin C Serum, or any other OZNatural product? Do you use facial serums? Let me know!

Thanks for reading and be sure to leave your comments below. I love reading and responding! Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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* Special thanks to OZNaturals for collaborating with me on this post. All opinions are my own. *