Nuggets from Erin

So - I'm back here to ponder a thing. I recently had dinner with a good friend who reminded me of a blog I started in 2020—noting how much he loved reading my opinion pieces on social issues, pop culture and other interests. The blog hadn’t crossed my mind for years even though I still have this website that I update periodically. But as I write this entry, I remember why I stopped.

Writing is something that I love. Whether it’s journaling, writing think pieces or poetry, even constructing the perfect email, I love writing. But when I had my blog and required myself to post weekly, it quickly felt like work and did not spark the joy it had since I was a child. So after a few months I decided to stop. But if I’m being honest, it wasn’t because it felt like work though it’s the excuse I told people. 2020 was a tough year for me. Of course there was the pandemic, but the death of George Floyd was top of mind that entire summer. 

I was in the middle of my six months of unemployment. I was losing family to Covid and I was suffering in some relationships in my life. I was not motivated to show up with these obligations. Also—now that I’m being very vulnerable—some friends at the time—those that I thought were at least—never supported it. There was no interest in this thing that I was putting my time and energy into, even when I asked for it. I can look by now and point to the uneasiness I felt and was gaslighting myself to not acknowledge it. Publishing my writing to others when I was in a deeply sensitive time just did not make sense—that’s why it felt like work. I no longer believed writing gave me the escapism writing always provided me with.

But with years passed and much more wisdom gained, I realize that it's probably time to get back on the writing horse, to be more vocal and share my thoughts. I have even more fire, confidence and intentionality over four years later. And I finally realize that I don't have to put these specific timelines on myself and can adjust as my priorities require me too, even if it’s simply for rest!

So I’m thankful for my friend. Encouragement from him—who I’d just met at the time—speaks volumes. This reminded me that even with all the occurrences from years ago, I have evolved and deserve to be good at things. So from today, especially in how I feel about myself and my talents: it's time to walk out on the ledge again.

xoxo

I’m watching history, again. But it’s not in shock, despair or disbelief that the world that I’m an adult in is ~unprecedented~ once again.

Believe it or not, there is a black woman in front of me in my huge 65in television accepting the Democratic nomination for president in the United States. Two months ago, this was improbable and unthinkable. One month ago, I was very concerned about the fact that the US would vocalize how they felt about a black woman leading the country.

I understand that the DNC (and the RNC for that matter) is at its core a huge pep rally and pop up for the election. But it feels that for the first time in nearly a decarde, I'm excited about the election as an *eligible* voter. Obama's elections were during my middle and high school days.

But political position aside, I am a proud citizen right now. I’m surprised at this feeling, maybe it's residue from the Olympics, but I’m excited for the future. Maybe the world I live in is not nearly as odd as it feels.

And as Michelle Obama, the best First Lady in US History, said "DO SOMETHING!" #VotingMatters

xoxo

Sometimes dreams become reality and often times the plans we have for our lives don't go the way we think it would. And today, 5 years in my favorite place in the world embodies that. I've known since a very young age that New York City was the place for me, but this time several years ago, I wasn't prepared for how deeply in love I would fall for this place. I was certain I would've had enough after 5 years, but instead, I'm planting myself deeper into this wonderful place I call home.

I wanted to keep this short and sweet because I need to pack. Funny enough - I'm celebrating this anniversary by taking a short trip home to GA but it's up when I come back!

xoxo

I promise this isn't an April Fool's Day joke! I'm really floored with my most recent experience after visiting the beautiful state of Utah, specifically the highly coveted city, Park City, UT where I went for a business trip, but left with a new appreciation for the cold life.I cannot wait to go back with more time to explore and embark on more newness, and overcome my skepticism of skiing. I'm grateful for friends that are very skilled when it comes to Snowboarding and Skiing, and it's time to try something I swore I'd never be interested in, as the warmth-loving Southern belle I am.

Though I was in town for business, the most notable experience was dinner my last night in PC at a beautiful hotel, perched in the middle of the mountains miles high in the sky. An experience I will keep in my arsenal of crazy life stories that I still can't believe sometimes.

But if you're ever in the Park City area, I HIGHLY recommend taking the trip to Yuta at The Lodge at Blue Sky resort, which was a spectacular restaurant with this phenomenal view - it's definitely a treat. Just brace yourself for the journey, but it will very much be worth it. The food was super fresh (they have a greenhouse on the resort property) and  experimental (see my elk steak below) made by a wonderful culinary experience full of interesting, bold flavors that left everyone stunned. And don't get me started with the wine list!

Even in writing this, I'm so grateful to be blessed with opportunities like this. I can't wait to plan my winter getaway in the near future!

xoxo

I'm so happy to celebrate another year of life today, and I couldn't be more proud of the woman I'm growing into everyday. This past year brought on so many firsts, some necessary lessons and exposure to more of what life has to offer. Most importantly, it brought on a newfound confidence that is so childlike, in the fascinating way that children dream limitlessly. I truly believe I can do anything! And that's the best gift I could ever give myself for my birthday. And in the spirit of gifting, I'll leave you with a few things to summarize the past year of life:

Three Wins:

• Moving into my own apartment! I mean, is there much needed to say here?! I have the privilege to create a space that is entirely my own, and living in a place like NYC, a safe space to call my own is ~priceless~
• So many new destinations! I went on my first International solo trip in May. It was unplanned, my favorite way to travel, and I had such a great experience in Turks & Caicos. Visited Chicago (3x) and San Francisco for the first time, and it's quite the experience learning and being exposed to the country beyond others’ point of view
• My green thumb finally arrived! From killing all but one of my first 5 plants when I started in 2020, I've grown my plant collection to over 20 plants (and counting)! The ability to facilitate life has given me an appreciation for my own in ways that I didn't expect, and they double as some of the best home decor out there! 

Three Learns:

• Invest in yourself FIRST! - From saving or investing a set amount of money, to discovering a new skill or doing some necessary healing, I need to prioritize self. I've learned to ensure my needs are taken care of so I can adequately help others. You know how the saying goes: you cannot pour from an empty cup
• Control your narrative - I cannot control what others think or say about me, but I can control how I feel and speak to myself, even if others contradict it. I stay focused on my inner star player, and I live as fully as I can
• Discipline isn't about telling yourself no, but staying committed to your 'yes' - Shifting how I saw the need for discipline in my life pushed me to have the dedication needed to achieve goals that aren't instantaneous or easily noticed by myself or others. Being patient with myself about the changes help me stay dedicated to the bigger picture

Three Things I Can't Wait to Do

• Travel to Europe - I was initially supposed to go across the pond in April 2020 but due to Covid, that wasn't really a thing, but now I'm ready, no more waiting! I'm so excited to explore, shop and eat my way through Europe
• Refine my personal style - I dared to start from scratch with my wardrobe, eliminating over 80% of all my clothes, shoes, accessories, etc. As I grow and change, so does my personal expression, and I've grown to be more conscious of my material consumption that lead to all the apparel in the first place
• Invest more time in my community - After expeiencing the pandemic and how it impacted my neighborhood, I’m committed to being a part of the rebirth of my community as an active participant and contributor to the #culture

xoxo