First and foremost, I’d like to give a brief background of who I am. Born in Brussels, raised in Kinshasa, then moved to Southern California at the tender age of fourteen. By the time I was fourteen years old, I had been to SEVEN countries and spoke three languages. This illustrates my affection for diversity and resentments for ignorance. Those who know me well would interpret me as fun, silly, outgoing, and strong-willed. I admire the things that aren’t so common because I am a gem!
Do you know what makes the world such a fascinating place? It’s the reality that people see whatever they want to see in others. The mind is more influential than we give it credit for.
I’m in a season that feels incredibly grounding yet expansive. With a 19-year-old daughter and an 18-year-old son, both blossoming into young adults, I’m embracing the joy (and the disbelief!) of having raised two grown children. My husband and I are approaching our 20-year anniversary, and it feels like such a blessing to have built this life together through the highs, the lessons, and the laughter.
I’m in a sweet spot.
I’m grateful for health, for growth, for wisdom. I often reflect on where I’ve come from and where I am now, my heart fills with gratitude. I’ve come to realize that the sky truly is the limit for me, and that awareness fuels my optimism every single day.
One of my proudest full-circle moments is having my daughter attend San Diego State University and soon, my son will be joining her there. Watching them both step into this next chapter in a city that holds such deep personal meaning for me is surreal.
San Diego was the first city I landed in when I came to the United States at nearly 14 years old. It’s where my journey in this country began. Eventually, we moved to Pasadena, but San Diego always held a piece of my heart. And now, decades later, my children are creating their own experiences there. Talk about coming full circle.
We’ve always loved taking little family getaways to San Diego, even before the college years began. There’s something about the city that nourishes me emotionally and spiritually. Whether it’s the sound of the waves or the gentle energy of the coast, San Diego has always felt like a place where I can simply be.
George’s at the Cove in La Jolla is a new favorite. This restaurant offers the most stunning terrace views of the ocean—it’s breathtaking. The food? Equally impressive. It’s the kind of place that reminds you to pause, breathe, and take it all in.
I also love staying at the Hyatt Regency La Jolla, which gives me everything I need when it comes to comfort, amenities, and proximity to some of my favorite local gems.
Over the years, we’ve done it all, from the San Diego Zoo to SeaWorld (yes, that’s where Shamu lives!). These are memories engraved in our family timeline, from when my kids were little to now, as they prepare to walk the campus together as young adults.
This city has watched me grow and now, it’s watching my children do the same.
Traveling from California to Las Vegas is always a refreshing shift, a change of scenery that awakens my creativity and recharges my energy. Vegas offers the perfect mix of clarity, focus, and fun. It’s where I find space to slow down, power up, and enjoy the ride.
Relaxation means taking a moment to breathe before the momentum of the day picks up. Whether it’s a quiet morning or a scenic pause, the environment helps me reset and get mentally prepared.
Work in Vegas carries a different energy. Surrounded by movement, lights, and ambition, I stay focused and intentional, bringing my vision to life one strategy at a time. Even the skyline seems to echo possibility.
Play is the well-earned reward. From catching up with familiar favorites, like my must-have pizza spot, to exploring the iconic sights or dining with a view at the Top of the World restaurant, I take time to celebrate the moment and the journey.
Spending Christmas in Cabo San Lucas was nothing short of magical for our family of four. We stayed at the stunning Hotel Riu Palace, a resort that truly delivered on comfort, elegance, and festive cheer. From the moment we arrived, just two days before Christmas, we knew we were in for something special.
My hubby planned everything down to the last detail. From the moment we landed, we were whisked away in a private SUV that transported us smoothly from the airport to the resort. The ride was luxurious, comfortable, and gave us just enough time to soak in the excitement as we transitioned from routine to relaxation.
Our room was spacious and family-friendly—perfectly designed for the four of us. We had room to spread out, settle in, and enjoy every moment together. Whether it was early morning beach walks, poolside lounging, or pajama mornings under the palm trees, each day held its own charm.
The resort offered something for everyone. The beach was breathtaking, the pools were refreshing, and yes, there was a pool bar that became an instant favorite. The food options were beyond impressive, with diverse selections that catered to all our cravings, from traditional holiday favorites to local specialties. The atmosphere throughout the resort buzzed with celebration and warmth, making it a truly memorable place to spend the holidays.
What made this trip even more special was how connected we felt. Away from the usual holiday hustle, we were able to slow down, laugh harder, talk longer, and create unforgettable memories together.
If you’re ever considering a family Christmas getaway, I can’t recommend Hotel Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas enough. It’s beautiful, welcoming, and a perfect backdrop for joy, rest, and togetherness. From horseback riding along the beach to ATV adventures through the desert terrain, this vacation was truly one for the books; an unforgettable experience we’ll always cherish.
As I sit here, wrestling with the emotions that come with my daughter heading off to college, I can’t help but feel a mix of pride, nostalgia, and a tinge of apprehension. My favorite girl, my mini-me, is stepping into a new chapter of her life, and it’s both exhilarating and challenging for me as her mom.
Being her mother has been an incredible journey, filled with laughter, tears, and countless unforgettable moments. From her first babbling words to her high school graduation, I’ve been there every step of the way, cheering her on and offering a shoulder to lean on through thick and thin.
Seeing her blossom into the impressive young woman she is today fills me with awe and gratitude. She’s strong, intelligent, and kind-hearted – everything I could have hoped for in a daughter. As she prepares to venture on this new adventure, I can’t help but admire the wonderful person she has become.
Encouraging her independence while nurturing our bond has always been a delicate dance for me. I want her to know I’m here for her, no matter what while giving her the space and freedom to explore the world on her terms. It’s a fine line but crucial for her growth and development.
Although the thought of her being away from home is challenging to swallow, I find relief knowing that our connection is more profound than proximity. Our bond is unbreakable, developed through years of shared experiences, laughter, and tears. Distance may separate us physically, but our love knows no bounds.
As my daughter ventures into the world, I find comfort in knowing she is well-prepared to face whatever challenges come her way. She’s resilient, determined, and capable of achieving greatness, and I do not doubt that she will make a positive impact wherever she goes.
So here’s to my beloved daughter, my precious girl – may you soar to new heights, chase your dreams passionately, and always remember that you have a home in my heart. As you spread your wings and embrace the unknown, know I am cheering you on every step of the way with love as vast as the sky.
Being from a different country and raising first-generation Americans can be challenging. What’s more difficult is trying to adopt two cultures in a household where both parents are from opposite parts of the world.
Raising children in a multicultural home is a unique and rewarding experience that comes with its own set of benefits and challenges. When parents come from two cultures, such as the African and African-American cultures, they give their children a rich tapestry of traditions, values, and perspectives. Let’s explore some of the key benefits and challenges that arise in this beautifully diverse parenting journey.
Cultural Awareness and Appreciation: Children growing up in a household with parents from both African and African-American cultures can be exposed to diverse customs, languages, and histories. This exposure fosters a deep cultural awareness and appreciation, allowing kids to embrace their roots and identity with pride.
Open-Mindedness: Being raised in a multicultural environment nurtures open-mindedness and tolerance. Children learn to value different viewpoints and understand that there is more than one way to perceive the world.
Language Skills: Bilingual or multilingual upbringing is ordinary in households with diverse cultural backgrounds. Learning multiple languages early enhances cognitive abilities and communication skills, providing children a competitive edge in a globalized world.
Resilience and Adaptability: Navigating between two distinct cultures requires flexibility and adaptability. Children from such backgrounds often develop resilience and the ability to embrace change gracefully.
Rich Traditions: Parents can pass down a wealth of traditions, ceremonies, and rituals from both cultures, reinforcing family bonds and fostering a sense of belonging.
While there are tremendous benefits, there are also challenges.
Balancing Traditions: Maintaining a balance between two distinct cultural heritages can be challenging. Parents must carefully navigate cultural differences to ensure their children appreciate both sides equally.
Identity Confusion: Children may experience identity confusion as they try to reconcile their dual cultural heritage. Parents should create a supportive environment, encouraging their kids to embrace their unique identity.
Social Pressure: The children may encounter societal pressure from both cultures to conform to specific norms or expectations. This can lead to a sense of being caught between two worlds.
Language Barriers: While bilingualism is advantageous, it can also present challenges when children struggle to switch between languages or feel more proficient in one over the other.
Communication Styles: African and African-American cultures have distinct communication styles, sometimes leading to misunderstandings or misinterpretations within the family dynamic.
Raising children in African and African-American cultures offers many benefits regarding cultural enrichment, adaptability, and resilience. However, it also comes with the responsibility of navigating potential challenges such as identity formation and balancing cultural expectations. Embracing diversity and open communication within the family can help create a harmonious and nurturing environment that celebrates the best of both worlds.
For starters, I’ll admit; Washington, D.C., is one of the prettiest places I have visited so far. It offers beautiful scenery, trees, unique museums, and a lot of history. Traveling to Washington, D.C., in February brought a lot of questions about the weather and if we’d be able to handle the east coast winter. Well, preparation was essential! Yes, living in California also means one most likely does not own an ideal winter coat. We ensured checking this item off our list! Other essentials included beanies, gloves, scarves, and LAYERS. I can only imagine how cold it gets in December!
There is a lot to see. However, we couldn’t see it all. We visited the National African American History Museum, which was quite a fun and educational experience.
Our visit to the White House was nothing less than superb!
Another fantastic, self-guided tour perfect for families. This was a big deal!❤️
Then, of course, are my “D.C Must-Haves”…
are three things I must have on a trip: A good coffee spot, fresh oysters, and delicious cocktails.🍸
If you are a coffee lover, Zeke Coffee is for you! It is located across the street and a five-minute walk from the White House. #CoffeeLover #ZekeCoffee #WhiteHouse https://www.zekescoffeedc.com/ ☕️☕️
Writing one’s own story should be easy. Wrong! Last year, I embarked on the exciting and fantastic journey of telling my story. Yep, I am telling it all! Honestly, I never enjoyed writing, but this is different. They say everyone likes a good tale… but what makes a good story? An exciting attention grabber? Enthusiasm? Confidence? Energy? Or, leaving a thing or two that can resonate with the reader?
I am a complex individual with a complicated past, a story I wouldn’t change for anything. Life has taught me lessons; life has shaped me, and it has made me who I am; life has done me well! Putting it into words has been more challenging and rewarding than I anticipated. Although it is time-consuming, I have enjoyed every piece of the process.
Everyone deserves a mind-blowing, exciting, twisted read that will leave them inspired.
Las Vegas is always pleasant, no matter what! So, my hubby wanted to spend his birthday in a fun, away-from-home-yet-close-enough-to-home setting. Las Vegas was perfect! This city is always an excellent option for Californians, being that it is a quick drive or flight if one chooses to do so and an overall short turnaround trip.
Although we stayed at the Bellagio for my husband’s birthday, which we loved, Mandalay Bay is another excellent option for families. Both resorts offer great ambiance.
Traveling with our teens is always fun, although they say Vegas is only suitable for adults. There are fun activities for families, such as the escape room, which was a unique and memorable experience.
And, of course, my hubby deserves the best. For dinner, we reserved a table at Prime Steakhouse inside Bellagio. The menu was no less than mouth-watering!
If you know me, then you know that I love French foods and wasn’t going to pass up on the opportunity to have an excellent French gourmet breakfast. La patisserie offered a variety delicious bakery items.
Traveling to the Bahamas was amazing! There are no words to describe the unique beauty the island holds!
First, we flew to Miami and boarded a cruise to the beautiful Island. The cruise experience was magnificent as we have cruised several times; this experience was just as enjoyable. The picture shown above was taken in Nassau, Bahamas, which was simply a beautiful island. The weather was beautiful, especially if one enjoys the water. We chose to have the “dolphin encounter” experience, which was quite remarkable!
We also visited Half Cay Moon, which had the most beautiful beach and blue water. The kids enjoyed this very much; this was such a great family vacation!
Health is not always about what you’re eating. It is also about what you’re thinking and saying.
#EatHealthy #ThinkHealthy #SpeakHealthy
DrNurse
When we think healthy thoughts, we see our lives change in a positive direction. Living a healthful lifestyle is not only about being physically active and eating well-balanced meals.
We’ve all heard of the saying that the mind is a powerful thing. So, good health also signifies a “healthy mindset.” Speaking positively is equally important. Growth is about understanding those things life throws at us and swerving them into experiences we can learn from. Growth takes time, so does learning to shift our thinking. ❤️
A Piece of my world 🇧🇪 