Whitney Nic James

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What I’m Currently Watching on Hulu and Netflix

July 22, 2020 by Whitney 2 Comments

Shows to Watch on Hulu and Netflix

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

Since “being home,” I’ve been able to catch up on some of my favorite shows and become acquainted with some new ones. 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 closer to getting rid of cable.

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 could 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.

The show does a great job of exploring a friendship between two Black women, navigating through the murk and mere of everyday life. I thoroughly enjoyed watching the two main characters, Issa and Molly, grow from season to season. My husband and I appreciated Issa’s obvious homage 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 faith-filled churchgoers are still very human and 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. However, I believe some of these couples make less than smart decisions regarding “finding love.” All in all, the show is certainly entertaining.

I could’ve added so many other shows, 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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Filed Under: Lifestyle, Style Tagged With: mjconsistencychallenge, mjconsistencypays

Practical Work from Home Outfits

July 21, 2020 by Whitney 1 Comment

It’s been four months, and working from home has become the new norm. I’m no stranger to working from home, so adjusting has been easy. And while I miss some interaction with colleagues, I prefer working this way. I’m more relaxed and more focused when working in the comfort of my own home.

Practical Work from Home Outfits

Kimono: Amazon

When it comes to my work-from-home fashion, my outfits are both stylish and comfortable. I wear a pair of black or grey leggings, a sports bra or tank top, and a kimono or a caftan on any given day. I’ll change it up some days and wear a pair of yoga pants or a tunic instead. Whatever the case, I’m cute and comfy. And, of course, I still accessorize. Big earrings are my go-to.

Practical Work from Home Outfits

Orange: Consignment Shop // Tan + Brown: Target // Grey Marble: Nordstrom Rack

Practical Work from Home Outfits

Kimono: ASOS Men (sold out)

Most days include working on my computer, cleaning up around the house, or in the kitchen meal prepping. Occasionally, I run downstairs for packages or delivery, which is another reason I like to be dressed. All in all, my work-from-home outfits are realistic and practical. The less fuss, the better.

Even though you’re not at the office, getting dressed should be enjoyable. So if you’re trying to figure out what to wear, other than pajamas and sweats, while working from home, take your time with it. Choose outfits that are true to your personal style but also comfortable and practical. And remember to add something fun to your outfits, like a printed turban or a pair of oversized earrings.

Filed Under: Style Tagged With: mjconsistencychallenge, mjconsistencypays

Quick and Easy Summer Snack Ideas

July 20, 2020 by Whitney 2 Comments

I’ve always been a snacker. I love a good crunch and am also partial to the taste of something sweet and savory. So, while working from home, I must have some tasty food to snack on.

Although I still love a good chip and candy moment, I’ve moved away from making those my go-to snack choices. As I refresh my healthy habits, I’ve become more conscious of what snacks I eat. If you’re looking for a few quick and easy summer snack ideas, below are three of my favorites:

Fruit Salad

I eat some version of a fruit salad at least once a day. If you follow me on Instagram, I’m sure you’ve seen me share one on Instastories. While I mostly eat my fruit salad without toppings, I sometimes add honey or Cool Whip. Both toppings boost the not-so-sweet fruit and give the already-sweet fruit an extra kick.

Mini Charcuterie Board 

I probably eat a mini charcuterie board at least three times a week. To keep it interesting, I try changing the variations here and there. However, the two ingredients always on my board are cheese slices and olives. Everything else is negotiable. Even when I’m the only one eating it, I ensure my charcuterie board is neat and pretty. The way you present food, even to yourself, is important.

Quick and Easy Summer Snack Ideas

Mediterranean Salad

I’ve only recently started making this salad on my own. I used to purchase Mediterranean Salads from the grocery store pretty often, so saving a little money has been nice. Prepping this snack ahead of time helps make it super easy. Below are the ingredients I use:

  • Cucumbers
  • Feta Cheese (sometimes)
  • Tomatoes
  • Olives
  • Olive Oil
  • Himalayan Salt
  • Pepper

Quick and Easy Summer Snack Ideas

3 Quick and Easy Summer Snack Ideas

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Filed Under: Style Tagged With: mjconsistencychallenge, mjconsistencypays

Fearless Faith Friday: How to Build a Relationship with God

July 17, 2020 by Whitney Leave a Comment

Often, I share my thoughts on my morning devotional on my Instagram Stories. I’ve also started sharing some tips for better Bible and scripture study. The one thing I try my best to convey when sharing anything faith-based is that although building a relationship with God takes time and commitment, it doesn’t have to be complicated. If you’re trying to build a relationship with God or revive the one you already have, I suggest not taking on too much too soon. If you haven’t opened your Bible in a while, don’t try reading it from start to finish right away. You likely won’t succeed or fully comprehend what you’ve read. Don’t overcommit. Take your time. God’s not going anywhere. Before I share a few ways you can start building or rebuilding your relationship with God, I want to share what it means to have a relationship with God: 

What does it mean to have a relationship with God?

Having a relationship with God means having a direct and personal connection with Him. A relationship with God includes trust, love, worship, and fellowship. As I shared before, like any relationship, one with God takes time and commitment. It will take time to grow, but as long as you put in the effort and make spending time with God intentional, your relationship will blossom into something truly wonderful. How to Build a Relationship with God Here are three simple ways you can get started on building or rebuilding your relationship with God:

1. Start a Prayer Journal

Sometimes, I struggle with what to “say” to God or how to “speak” to him. Having a prayer journal has been very helpful. Writing my prayers in journal, letter, or bullet point form makes communicating with God much easier.

2. Use Flashcards to Memorize Scripture

I learn best by doing or by seeing. If you’re a visual learner like me, try this method of memorizing scripture. Even if you’re not a visual learner, using flashcards to study and memorize scripture can be beneficial.

3. Don’t Compare Your Relationship to Anyone Else’s

Your relationship with God is just that; yours. Don’t let anyone make you feel bad for how you communicate with God or your relationship with Him. Everyone’s relationship with Him will look different, and that’s OK. God didn’t make us the same, so he doesn’t expect our relationship with him to mirror someone else. 
How to Build a Relationship with God
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Filed Under: Lifestyle, Style Tagged With: mjconsistencychallenge, mjconsistencypays

Summer Reading List: 5 Books to Read this Summer

July 16, 2020 by Whitney Leave a Comment

Books to Read this Summer

Reading has always been one of my favorite past times. In the past, I’ve opted to listen to books using Audible. While I love audiobooks, it’s sometimes difficult to comprehend or even remember what I’ve read. So these days, I’m trying to read more physical books.

I like highlighting, taking notes, and referring to specific sections when I read. You can’t do (all) that with audiobooks. And while I have yet to read as many books this year as planned, I’m making time to read and finish a few books this season.

Here are five books I plan to read this summer:

1. The Origins of Others, Toni Morrison

Toni Morrison is one of America’s most beloved and most notable Black female authors. According to a few reviews online, The Origins of Others is essentially six lectures by Morrison at Harvard University in 2016. She touches on race, fear, belonging, and an array of other topics in relation to literature.

2. No Disrespect, Sista Souljah

From the first time I read the line, “I came busting into the world during one of New York’s worst snowstorms, so my mother named me Winter,” I’ve been a fan of Sista Souljah. Her remarkable first novel, The Coldest Winter Ever, was a staple for every young black girl’s bookshelf. No Disrespect, published in 1994, is also said to be remarkable and riveting in its own way. Each chapter is devoted to someone who made a difference in her life and gave a real-life look at how Black people are treated in America. Although this book was written 20+ years ago, I’m almost certain the lessons and experiences she recounts are relevant today.

3. The End of Me, Kyle Idleman

I started reading The End of Me, thinking it was a normal chapter book, but it’s much more than that. Idleman brilliantly weaves Bible stories and scripture into each chapter to show how we must come to the end of ourselves to experience the full life Jesus has to offer.

4. Woman of Color, Latonya Yvette

Woman of Color explores motherhood, sisterhood, beauty, style, loss, and resilience from the author’s perspective. After thumbing through the pages, I can already tell this six-chapter book, part memoir and part lifestyle guide, will be a refreshing, intriguing, and heartfelt read.

5. More Myself, Alicia Keys

Since elementary school, I’ve been fascinated with autobiographies. So reading More Myself, part autobiography, part narrative documentary, has been a treat. Keys is a great storyteller. On the one hand, her life seems very normal. Then you start reading about her experiences in the music industry and see that her “normal life” is also extremely compelling.

5 Books to Read this Summer

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Filed Under: Lifestyle, Style Tagged With: mjconsistencychallenge, mjconsistencypays

Plans to Revive My Healthy Lifestyle

July 15, 2020 by Whitney Leave a Comment

Revive a Healthy Lifestyle

Deciding to revive a healthy lifestyle can be a daunting task. Breaking bad habits and getting used to a new routine takes hard work and discipline. However, making and sticking to those changes is always worth it.

There’s always a lot of excitement surrounding goal setting, but not much emphasis on how to reach goals. For instance, in this post, I shared four focus areas I plan to refresh this month- morning routine, evening routine, health & fitness, and home. I also listed three goals under each area. I didn’t, however, share how I plan to achieve certain goals.

The goal is important, but it’s easy to fall back into unhealthy and unproductive habits without a plan. So, here’s my plan to reach my health & fitness goals:

Drink 1 gallon of H20 a day

A few months back, I purchased four 32oz mason jars from Target and a pack of reusable straws. In the evening, I place both items on the counter. I also put a fresh gallon jug of water in the fridge. Because I pre-cut my fruit for the week, I already know there are enough lemons and cucumbers to add to my water in the a.m.

Move My Body at Least 30 Minutes a Day

For July, I decided a 30-minute outdoor walk/jog would be my form of movement during the week. So, before going to bed, I lay my workout clothes on top of my dresser. My sneakers are already by the door, so that’s already taken care of. I also have my iPhone’s “Bedtime” setting set to 9:30 p.m. for Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. While I may not go to sleep every night at 9:30, setting this alarm reminds me to be in bed and ready for sleep. I usually doze off between 10-10:15.

Schedule a Monthly Virtual Therapy Session

Therapy has been a game-changer for me in more ways than one. I take my appointments very seriously, so I schedule my next appointment before logging off with my therapist to ensure I won’t miss a session. I also add the date and time to my iPhone calendar immediately after the session ends. If I wait to do this later, I almost always forget. Having my sessions locked in a month ahead of time gives me so much peace of mind.

With a plan, a goal is likely to be achieved. You may have to tweak your plan here and there or rework it all together, but at least you have something to work with. So, here’s to deciding to revive a healthy lifestyle, coming up with a plan, crushing goals, and having much success!

Filed Under: Style Tagged With: mjconsistencychallenge, mjconsistencypays

How to Use the Powersheets Goal Planner to Plan Your Month

July 14, 2020 by Whitney Leave a Comment

I’ve always been a planner. As I’ve shared before, I thrive on routine and am much happier and more productive when leading a disciplined life. So this month, I decided to go back to using a planner to help organize my days.

For years I searched for the perfect planner. At first, I was all about the gold polka-dot Kate Spade planner. I actually used it for quite a few years. Then, I ventured into solely digital planning with my iPhone and Google Calendar. Both methods served their purpose, but I needed something different as my daily and monthly tasks changed.

I’ve used the Cultivate What Matters Powersheets Goal Planner, also known as “Power Sheets,” for the past two years. I have the 2020 12-month dated planner. Right now, the six-month undated versions are available. This planner is perfect for you if you:

  • enjoy tracking your progress
  • find joy in self-reflection and writing lists
  • prefer intentional and faith-based goal setting 
  • aren’t afraid to answer tough questions and face your fears
  • like to dig deep to figure out what makes you happy and what motivates you

Admittedly, I haven’t used this planner since February. However, this is the kind of planner you can pick up where you left off and still feel confident about goal setting. At the beginning of each month, there are three pages to fill out and one page to complete once the month is over. Here’s the breakdown of the pages:

Prepare Well

This is the first page to fill out at the beginning of each month. Included is space to fill out four sections:

  • Important To Do’s
  • I’m Excited For
  • On My Mind
  • I’m Hopeful That

Make What Matters Happen This Month

This page also includes tips on how to simplify and prioritize your goals, as well as how to sort your goals. The sections to fill out include:

  • Goals to Focus on this Month
  • Action Ideas

Tending List 

This page is my favorite because you really get down to the nitty-gritty of goal setting and tracking your progress. There’s space to fill out “action items” for the month, the week, and each day. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

  • Encouraging Words
  • Top Priority
  • Monthly Action Items
  • Weekly Action Items
  • Daily Action Items

Month in Review 

This is the final monthly page. Here, there’s have space to fill out the following:

  • What you’re grateful for
  • Goals that are growing well
  • Someone you’re grateful for and why (x2)
  • What you’re choosing grace over guilt about
  • The progress you’re celebrating
  • Favorite memory
  • Good lesson learned
  • What you’re saying NO to
  • What you’re saying YES to

There’s also the option to download two “wildcard” pages. These can be found on the Cultivate What Matters website. There are so many other interactive and insightful pages that I didn’t share. Those pages really make you dive deep and require a bit of self-work. It can seem overwhelming, but it’s worth the time and effort.

Overall, this planner is very in-depth and extremely helpful with simplifying goals, tracking progress, and introspection. If you desire to set intentional goals with a sprinkle of faith along the way, this planner is for you. I’m so thankful I’ve found my way back to this planner. I now feel even more confident about achieving my goals.

Filed Under: Style Tagged With: mjconsistencychallenge, mjconsistencypays

How to Keep Your Home Organized

July 13, 2020 by Whitney Leave a Comment

As I continue refreshing and renewing my way through July, I’ve been reimplementing some of my old habits to ensure that my home is as organized and neat as possible. For the most part, my husband and I are pretty organized people. We always say that I’m the organizer and he’s the cleaner. I get excited about shelving and storage containers, and he gets a thrill out of finding the newest cleaning supplies and natural cleaners.

Regardless of who likes to do what, we do certain tasks when it’s time to organize and clean. Here are five simple tasks we do to keep an organized home:

1. Make the Bed Everyday

My grandfather ingrained this into my brain as a little girl, and it’s stuck with me ever since then. Not only does this make the bedroom look neater and more put together, but it also helps mentally prepare me for a productive day.

2. Clean as I Go

I try my best with this one. For instance, if I’m in the kitchen meal prepping or cutting up some fruit, I’ll be sure to put the knives and any other utensils or items used in the dishwasher as soon as I’m done with them. Also, if I’m baking or cooking, I usually clean up my mess as I make my way through the kitchen. That way, I can move on to my next task seamlessly.

How to Keep Your Home Organized

3. Have Shoe Storage at the Entryway

We’re a “remove your shoes before you come in” household. Not only does this eliminate unwanted germs from entering the home, but it also keeps the foyer nice and neat. We also store our most frequently worn shoes in the entryway. Doing this reduces clutter and makes our “everyday shoes” easy to find.

5. Schedule Cleaning Days + Know My Responsibilities

My husband and I have a cleaning schedule. Although it’s just us, this schedule helps eliminate unnecessary disagreements and keeps our home in order. I’m responsible for dusting, washing, + folding clothes, restocking the bathroom with cotton swabs, floss sticks, and other bathroom necessities, and watering our plants. I’m also responsible for keeping up with our food and household inventory.

Darrius is responsible for vacuuming, cleaning the bathroom, and removing the trash. We split the dishes, bed-making, and cooking. I also created a shared grocery and household item list using the Notes App. This makes keeping up with our household inventory a breeze.

4. Use a Calendar

About once a month, Darrius and I sit down and go over our family calendar. From birthday celebrations and date nights to doctor’s appointments and trips home (for Darrius), we like to be sure that important dates are blocked off and planned for ahead of time. There’s an erasable calendar in our kitchen that I fill out monthly. If an event or special occasion is coming up, it’s on the calendar. We schedule our doctor’s visits and other medical appointments using our iPhone calendars.

5 Simple Ways to Keep Your Home Organized

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I can only live with clutter and disorganization but for so long. I know things sometimes go differently than planned. That’s life. However, keeping our home as neat and as organized as possible is a priority. These five simple tasks make keeping your home organized a priority as well.

Filed Under: Lifestyle, Style Tagged With: mjconsistencychallenge, mjconsistencypays

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