LOVE IN A CONSOL BOTTLE

Here’s to the new year, to the new month, and to the challenges we’re going to smash out with grace and a little bit of sass. Year after year, I’ve burned my letter to the Universe, sending my hopes and dreams into the fire. This time, I’ve decided to blog it instead—perhaps to burn at midnight—but either way, my intentions are set. I’m spending New Year’s Eve alone again, and yes, I’m heading straight to work tomorrow. But that doesn’t change the fact that I’m celebrating this year with finesse. A little bit of sass, too, because why not? I pray that the drama in me fades away and that the passion in me flows freely. May the earth surround me with the most beautiful sunflowers I can find this season. May the roses forget the thorns and the bees remember the honey. This is the year I want: a year of travel, spark, and financial pleasure. A home filled with love, a well-behaved doggie by my side, and a husband who constantly blows my mind with new ideas that we actually follow through o...

Ever wanted to give your face a revitalizing facelift? Well, I’ve found the perfect product that does just that! Avon’s Dead Sea Minerals Face Mask has truly transformed my skincare routine, and I’m here to share the experience with you. I applied the mask to my face and waited for about 8 minutes—despite the recommended time of 10 to 15 minutes. I have sensitive skin, not that I suffer from any major ailments, but my pores tend to clog up, and my skin can go into overdrive if I’m not careful. So, I decided to try it for a shorter time, and wow, the results were incredible. My face felt completely revitalized, refreshed, and cleansed. It’s as if I’d just had a professional facial! I’m thrilled with how my skin looks and feels. It’s glowing, clean, and smooth, and honestly, I haven’t had skin look this good in a long time. I’m a smoker, and I’m often exposed to the sun and various environmental factors, so finding something that helps plump and rejuvenate my skin during the harsh summer...

I’ve recently noticed a pattern in my professional life that I can’t ignore. It started about four years ago with "C," who was my CEO at the time. Two years ago, it was "S." And recently, "P." All three of them crossed my path in different ways, but as I reflect on these experiences, I’m starting to question whether there’s something bigger at play. Why do I seem to be drawn to CEOs, or, perhaps more accurately, why are they drawn to me? The first experience I had was with C, an introverted leader who opened up to me in ways that felt almost unique. Over the course of several months, we had daily conversations that ranged from casual to deeply personal. I got to know him in ways I hadn’t expected. After our time together, C ended up in Scotland with his ex-wife, and I couldn’t help but feel that his interest in me had transcended the professional. It left me with more questions than answers—what exactly had he seen in me? Then there was S, a strong, domina...

The song playing in my head as I woke up from my afternoon nap was Jodeci's Cry for You. Now, it might sound odd to some—having a song playing in your head as you wake up—but that’s been the story of my 44 and a half years. There is always a song in my head, and somehow, it always resonates with where I am emotionally. Today, it’s no different. I find myself crying for someone so intensely, and I’m not even sure why. I feel him, see him, and relate to him on so many levels. For some reason, I am profoundly drawn to him, missing him in ways that don’t make logical sense—especially considering that I’ve never actually had him. I’m leaving the company where we both work in about five weeks. That will likely be the end of it. I may never know if there was something real between us or if it was just a massive infatuation fueled by lust and unspoken possibilities. Deep down, I’m convinced there was more. I’m not delusional; I felt the tension, the risks, and the unspoken connection. Yet...

Let’s talk about financial woes. I have always been subjected to money issues, especially during my younger years over Christmas. I guess it was always too short—there was never enough money for groceries, and it felt like a constant struggle to achieve more with less. Now, as I’m leaving a job, money seems to dominate my thoughts. Failed debit orders in December are nothing new for me, but each time it happens, it feels like a reminder of where I’m falling short. Despite my concerns, I’m not giving up. There is a plan in place, but fear creeps in, and hope feels fragile when you’re forced to restart over and over again. I’ve come to realize the “art of seeing money” is deeply tied to perception—both my own and how others view me while I’m building a life. I have resources, but they’re not ready to be utilized. Meanwhile, my husband sits in fear over what’s next. My salary carried us this far, and the idea of losing it has left him paralyzed. His fear fuels the tension between us. For ...

You know when you're about to give up on something—a relationship, a friendship, or maybe a situationship? It feels like you're stuck in a loop of not being able to have what you want. This year, I learned something transformative about assumptions, resistance, and detachment. First, let's talk about resistance and the phrase, "I don't want something." It's strange but true: the more we resist something, the more it seems to persist in our lives. When you declare you don't want something, your energy and focus align with that thing, pulling it closer to you. So why not flip the script? Resist the things you do want—and in doing so, trick your mind into letting go of the need for them. This leads to the second realization: detachment. Detachment is not about giving up; it's about freeing yourself from the pressure of needing a specific outcome. When you can detach, you’re not tied to whether or not you achieve a particular goal—and ironically, that’...

As I gear up for one more night shift this week, I can't help but feel a surge of excitement. There’s something about this final stretch that makes the long hours more manageable, especially when I’ve got a couple of laptops open on my coffee station. Tonight, I decided to do something a little different. Instead of just powering through the shift, I thought I’d pull out my Oracle cards and see what guidance they might offer. It’s a simple yet deeply calming ritual that brings me a sense of peace amidst the chaos of the night. As I shuffled the cards, one in particular caught my attention: The Butterfly. I immediately felt drawn to its message. The Butterfly card is a powerful symbol of transformation—its wings represent the growth and change that’s happening within. The message of this card is clear: relationships are evolving, perhaps even moving to the next phase. It’s a reminder that personal growth, especially in relationships, is often tied to healing our inner child. There’s...

. Good morning, you Sexy Millionare! So, what do we have in store for 2025? Well, I’m thinking it’s going to be a year full of new things. A little bit of traveling, a lighter pace than before, and definitely setting some goals. Your body and gym plans are part of this, so let's make sure you're taking care of yourself in every way. Let’s make a copious amount of money and find time for a book or two while chilling with your Lana on a cool evening. Get better at your tarot readings, meditate almost every day, and find something that truly sets your soul on fire. Maybe it's time to look for a creative job atmosphere that excites you, but most importantly, it’s about keeping and maintaining you . Fix your teeth, finally get that job done—because you totally deserve it. More importantly, finish your teacher's degree—you’re so close, only four steps left! And, through it all, find the spiritual version of you again after this battle over the past six months. There will alwa...

 Christmas is over, and here we are—back to reality. Both my husband and I are heading back to work, night shifts ahead, and the monotony of it all hits like a wave. It’s like a disease that creeps into the soul, draining the vibrancy from life and leaving behind a dull routine. Wake up, eat, find your coffee fix, get some food in your system, take your pills for the day, hit the gym, run errands, feed the dog, shower, and then leave again. Day after day, the same cycle continues, a cycle that doesn’t quite feel like it reflects what we deserve. Somewhere along the line, we got stuck in this pattern, one where each day feels like a repeat of the last, each one blending into the next. Every day should hold new challenges, better prospects, and deeper meaning. So why does it feel like we’re just going through the motions, punching in and out for someone else’s dream instead of our own? It makes me wonder, when did we start believing that dedicating ourselves to making other people ri...

 This Christmas ended up being unexpectedly peaceful and relaxed, and while it wasn’t quite the picture-perfect holiday I’d imagined, it was exactly what I needed. Sometimes, we put so much pressure on ourselves to create the “perfect” festive experience, but in the end, it’s the quieter moments that truly matter. I started out feeling a little gloomy. I think I had set my expectations too high, thinking there would be excitement, hustle, and bustle, and of course, everything would go off without a hitch. But the reality of the holiday season often doesn’t line up with what we envision. I had a sense of overwhelm creeping in, mixed with a bit of fatigue. I hadn’t been sleeping enough, and the constant buzz of holiday preparations left me feeling drained. Then, I realized the simple truth: I needed rest. Once I allowed myself to just slow down and take a break, it made all the difference. A good nap, a little time away from the usual to-do list, and suddenly, everything felt lighter...

Christmas is usually a time for family—days off, a chance to gather with those you love and to make memories that last. It’s meant to be a time of joy, togetherness, and celebration. But over the years, it’s become clear that things have changed. The family has evolved into something different. We’re living our own lives, keeping our own money, and pretending that everything is fine, hoping all the debit orders will go off without a hitch. We spend too much during the holidays trying to make it special, and in doing so, we forget about the little things—those everyday adult responsibilities that need attention, that keep us grounded. This year, it feels even more pronounced. My husband has fallen ill, and there’s not much of a festive spirit to speak of. The weather is cold, and low clouds hover in the sky, almost like it’s waiting to rain. Yes, I enjoy the rain, but today it feels different—it’s a quiet Christmas. As I reflect on everything this morning, there’s a sense of gloom that ...

 In the stillness of my heart, I wish I could tie a Sangha string around the wrist of the one I love—someone who is forever beyond my reach. The Sangha thread , a symbol of protection, wisdom, and connection, holds deep meaning for me. It is a way to bind love and blessings, to offer a connection that transcends distance, time, and circumstance. But sometimes, love is not meant to be shared in the ways we desire. While the Sangha thread can be tied to symbolize the bond between two souls, I find myself wishing I could tie it to him—so that he would never forget me, and so that he would feel the depth of my love, even though we are not together in this lifetime. I imagine the thread, red for protection, yellow for wisdom, wrapping gently around his wrist. With each knot, a prayer of hope: that he knows I care, that my love runs deep, even if our paths have drifted apart. In the stillness, I offer my love silently, tied with the symbolic power of the Sangha . I wish for him to feel ...

As the new year approaches, I reflect on the symbolism and blessings of the protection strings , also known as Sangha threads , often placed for the new year to flow through. I have Lana to thank, for reminding me that my strings were coming loose. Perhaps, spiritually, it was a sign that change is on the horizon. In Buddhism, the tradition is to never tie the strings yourself. It’s a practice that involves the elder of the family doing so, passing down blessings through this simple yet meaningful act. While my family is not around to offer this, as it would traditionally come from my mother, I chose to have the head of my household—my husband—tie the seven knots for me, using both yellow and red strings , or Sangha . The red string symbolizes protection , while the yellow string represents wisdom . They are believed to bring good fortune, success, and blessings. Tying these strings around my left wrist reminds me of the protection and wisdom of the Buddha’s teachings. The left side ...

Off to Kathmandu, I presume, for an adventure that promises not only fun but also a spiritual awakening. In February, I will embark on a two-week journey, one that blends volunteer work with the chance to explore the wonders of the world on the other side of the globe. It’s a dream I’ve held for years, one I never thought I would fully experience, but now, as the time approaches, I feel more certain than ever. When I was younger, I often imagined walking up the stairs to a monastery, holding my son’s hand. I envisioned that moment, the weight of my child in my arms as we shared in the stillness of the sacred spaces. But as life unfolded, I found myself without children, yet with a heart that still yearns for that spiritual pilgrimage. Now, the time has come—not with children by my side, but with the hope of a profound personal journey that will bless and heal me. At nearly 45 years old, I’ve spent years contemplating life, its twists, turns, and the paths not taken. But this? This jour...

 This Christmas, I had the joy of watching my sweet girl, Lana, open her very first present. As the paper crinkled under her paws, there was a moment of confusion—was the excitement about the wrapping paper, or the gift itself? With pure enthusiasm, she bolted out the door, the paper flapping in her wake, as if to say the surprise was enough to keep her going. But then, in a flash of realization, she stopped. Her eyes lit up as she noticed it—the gift inside the wrapping. A simple pink and blue rubber ball, a perfect little present for a perfect little girl. Her excitement was contagious, and I couldn’t help but smile at the pure joy she exuded. My girl was so thrilled that she didn’t quite know what to do with the wrapping or the ball—it didn’t matter. She was just so happy to be a part of it all. Maybe it was a little crazy—buying a ball with wrapping for my baby—but seeing her joy made it all worth it. She’s not just a dog; she’s family, and family deserves surprises, especially...

As many of you know, I've been in a telepathic situationship for the past few months—a connection so unique and deep that it has left me both stunned and amazed. But as life often goes, the time has come to cut the ties, step into my own life, and finally begin living without him. As hard as that may seem, and as simple as the coffee I'm sipping on at this very moment, I feel it’s time to let go. I want to make one thing clear: even though I’m moving forward, he will always be a part of my life. Not because I left, but because I chose to keep him around me in my heart. This was the first telepathic relationship I’ve ever had, and it worked in ways I never imagined. We found ourselves effortlessly connected, sharing passion, peace, and understanding even without saying a word. There’s a magic in that, a magic that I know will linger, no matter where life takes us. While writing my book about this journey, so many emotions and sparks resurfaced over and over again. And as I refle...

Christmas is here, and I find myself reflecting on the gifts I’ve chosen this year—gifts I never thought I’d be able to buy, and honestly, I was a bit confused about what to get. But as I look around, our little tree is surrounded by big boxes, and I can't help but feel a sense of excitement and joy. I’m eagerly anticipating the smiles and laughter that will fill the room on Christmas morning. For so long, I struggled with buying gifts. Years ago, I was shunned for buying a cheap piece of art, leaving me feeling disheartened and uncertain about the whole process. This made me hesitant to purchase anything that felt personal, something that might hold deep meaning. But as I heal and grow, I’ve come to realize that gift-giving isn’t just about material things—it’s about boundaries, choice, and, above all, thoughtfulness. This year, I feel alive again when choosing presents for the people I love, the ones who truly matter to me. I have always had a taste for the finer things in life, ...

This December, I had the pleasure of getting some amazing tattoos done, and I couldn't be happier with the results. As always, my talented artist, Dane, did an incredible job. Dane isn’t just a skilled tattoo artist; he’s someone whose gentle hands and warm personality make every session a joy. He truly pours his heart into his work, and it shows in every design he creates. One of the most special moments for me was finally covering up my old Tweetie bird tattoo that I got in Ireland. As we age and grow, so do our tastes and preferences, and this tattoo was a perfect reflection of a different chapter in my life. But as time goes on, I felt it was time for a change, a fresh start. So, we transformed it into something more powerful and meaningful – a phoenix rising from the ashes. The phoenix is a symbol of rebirth and transformation, which resonates deeply with me as I reflect on how much I've changed over the years. Just like the bird that rises anew, I feel like this tattoo ma...

There’s something magical about the simple things in life—like the scent of freshly cut grass and the clean, earthy smell after rain. That’s how my festive start began yesterday. At work, they were cutting the grass, and there was nothing more delightful than breathing in that fresh, green scent. I know for some, it triggers allergies, but for me, it’s a signal that summer is near—bringing warmth, freedom, and the promise of long, sunny days. The rain that followed only added to the atmosphere. It washed the air clean, leaving a freshness that renewed everything, even if the UV was high. That post-rain feeling has a nostalgic quality to it, reminding me of days spent running around outside as a kid. It has a way of setting the tone for a day, or sometimes even shifting my desires and mindset in unexpected ways. Speaking of shifting emotions, I had an encounter yesterday that still has my heart racing—my crush. I thought I was going to burst with excitement when I saw him. My heart was ...

As Christmas approaches, I find myself excited and filled with joy. There’s something magical about this time of year—especially when I think of the plans I have for my husband, Lana (our playful pup), and me. Even though I’m working a night shift this Christmas, I’m determined to prepare a lunch and dinner that is not only festive but also fits our lifestyle—diabetic-friendly and light yet full of flavor. It’s been a busy few weeks leading up to Christmas, and as I plan our meals, I keep in mind that I want the day to feel special without overwhelming myself with too much time in the kitchen. The last thing I want is to be stuck slaving away in the heat, especially when South Africa’s summer weather is perfect for a more laid-back, braai-style Christmas. So, I made things easier by stuffing the oven with an hour or two of baking and roasting, creating that warm, festive feeling without all the fuss. Here’s a sneak peek at the delicious menu I’ve created—a balance of hearty and light d...

This weekend, I’m diving into Christmas shopping for two very special beings—my husband and our sweet furball, Lana. I know we don’t officially celebrate Christmas, but we’re celebrating the end of the year with joy and reflection. This year has been full of hard work, sacrifices, and a mix of ups and downs. But as we approach the end, I can confidently say it’s been a festive time—one where we’ve found much more to be grateful for than to mourn. We’ve been through a lot, especially over the last six months. But rather than focusing on the challenges, we’re choosing to celebrate the things we’ve gained. We’ve gained strength as a family, the kind of respect and love that bind us together, and an incredible bond with Lana. Her furry presence has brought us so much joy, reminding us that sometimes it’s the simple things—the companionship and loyalty of a pet—that matter most. In reflecting on what we’ve lost versus what we’ve gained, it’s clear we’ve emerged with much more than we ever i...

 The 8 of Cups in a Money reading suggests leaving behind a financial situation that no longer serves you or is emotionally unfulfilling. It may indicate walking away from a job, investment, or financial habit that’s holding you back, in search of something more aligned with your true goals. While it can feel like a difficult decision, this card signals that moving on will lead to better opportunities and personal growth in the long run. The Ace of Swords   signifies clarity, truth, and new beginnings in a love reading . It suggests a breakthrough in communication or a moment of understanding that brings a fresh perspective to your relationship. This card encourages honest conversations and clear decision-making, paving the way for a deeper connection or a new start in love. The 8 of Pentacles reversed in a future reading suggests a potential lack of focus, dedication, or skill development in the coming period. It may indicate that you could struggle with consistency or fe...

 The RAP of My Job Search – A Cautionary Tale So, I've been on the hunt for a work-from-home job lately, searching high and low, and finally, the universe answered – or so it seemed. After many subliminal messages and emails from what seemed like legitimate job opportunities, one landed in my inbox from a company called School Suppliers in New York. Now, who wouldn’t want to work in New York, right? But here’s the twist. I couldn't help but notice something… the job is based in Jamaica, Queens. If you're a true rap fan like me, you know what that means – LL Cool J. Then, it gets even more interesting: the company’s location is also near Rockaway Boulevard – Jay-Z territory. Now, I’m no detective, but with all this rap history circling my head, I can’t shake the feeling that these emails are trying to tell me something. The thought pops into my mind: Do they want me to lean back? For those of you who love rap as much as I do, you get it. The location alone feels like a nod t...

Some days start off feeling like they’re destined for failure. You wake up, expecting the worst, thinking it’s just one of those days where everything will go wrong. But life, in its beautiful unpredictability, has a way of surprising us when we least expect it. I had one of those days recently. I had prepared myself for a miserable time—something that could only end in frustration or disappointment. But what turned out to be an ordinary plan to catch up with a few friends quickly transformed into something I never could have predicted: an impromptu gathering, full of laughter, deep conversations, and yes, even tears. Lots of tears—but not mine. It wasn't a bad kind of crying. It wasn’t sadness, but more of a release. A reminder that sometimes, the people we least expect to see in their vulnerable moments are the ones who need us the most. As I sat there, listening to my friends share their struggles, I realized how much we had all been through. Life hadn't been easy for any of...

The Reality of Catering: A Lesson in Perfectionism When I had my own catering business, the stress was real. It was never a walk in the park, but I was always up for the challenge. I pride myself on being smart in the kitchen and ensuring that the food was always good. Every event was a reflection of my dedication, passion, and drive to deliver quality. However, yesterday, as I attended a year-end function with a braai, I couldn’t help but reflect on the vast difference between my standards and what I witnessed. The day started with promise—chicken, lamb chops, roast beef on the spit, pap, and an assortment of salads: potato salad, three-bean salad, and a green salad. The menu itself was full of potential. But, oh, the execution… Well, let's just say it left a lot to be desired. The Meat Disaster Being in the catering business, especially during the summer, one thing I know for certain is that meat safety is everything . Serving meat in the heat of South Africa’s summer requires pr...

The Song of the Year: "Love of My Life" by Queen Have you ever listened to a song and thought, "This is the one"? A song that, in its melody and lyrics, perfectly captures the emotions you’ve been trying to express? For me, that song is "Love of My Life" by Queen. It’s not just a beautiful song—it’s become a reflection of my own journey, a way of understanding and expressing love in its deepest and most profound form. Released in 1975 as part of their album A Night at the Opera , "Love of My Life" is a timeless ballad written by Freddie Mercury. It’s a song that embodies both the joy of love and the heartache that can accompany it. Mercury's vulnerability in his lyrics, paired with the delicate piano arrangement and Queen's signature sound, makes the song an emotional powerhouse. It’s the kind of song that doesn’t just speak to the heart, but holds it in a way that is almost too familiar, too intimate. Why It Speaks to Me For me, "L...

Five Facts About My Lana Girl Before I sign off for the week, I wanted to take a moment to share five things I love about my sweet Lana girl. She’s more than just a pet—she’s family, and I hope you cherish your pets as much as I do mine. Endless Energy, Even at 5 AM – Lana is a bundle of energy, no matter the time of day. Whether it’s the crack of dawn or the middle of the night, she’s always ready to zoom around, bringing a little spark to every morning. The zoomies are my favorite part of the day! No Judgment, Just Love – Lana doesn’t care how dirty your clothes are or how messy you may be. When she wants to jump up on you, she doesn’t hesitate. All she wants is acknowledgment, and in that moment, nothing else matters. Tossing Stones for Fun – She’s surprisingly independent, especially when we’re busy. But give her a stone, and she’ll toss it in the air for fun. It’s just one of her quirky ways of keeping herself entertained. Loyal and Intuitive – Lana is as loyal as I wish I cou...

I trusted the small bag of sunflower seeds, and planted them with the hope that, come summer, I’d be greeted by golden blossoms. I told myself, if they blossom, there will be hope —a sign that my efforts and intentions were not in vain. I believe that when you plant something with purpose, it has a way of growing in response to that very intention. And sure enough, as the sunflowers bloomed, I realized something profound. These flowers needed more than just soil—they needed nurturing, consistent care, and, above all, sunlight. If I didn’t water them or protect them, they wouldn’t survive. In much the same way, the things we want to grow in life require attention. My hope in planting these seeds was not just to see if they’d flourish, but to test a deeper belief: that things can blossom when you put in the effort and trust in the process. Now, as I watch my sunflowers sway in the breeze, I’m reminded of how life mirrors this simple act of planting. Just as I water these flowers, I need ...

Interesting Facts That Changed My 2024:  Life is a Bunch of Balls – Life is unpredictable, full of challenges, but we’re meant to juggle it all and keep moving forward. Trust Your Tribe Only – Your circle of trust is crucial. Surround yourself with people who have your back no matter what. Depend on Yourself – Self-reliance is the most powerful tool you have. Trust in your abilities and decisions, and always lean on yourself when things get tough. You Do Not Have to Look or Dress for 44 – Age is just a number. You don’t have to fit into society’s mold of what you should be at any given age. Be true to your own style. Love Even When It Hurts – Love is worth the risk, even if it brings pain. The depth of love is what truly makes life meaningful. Give Even When You Do Not Have – The act of giving doesn’t depend on how much you have; it’s about the intention and the heart behind it. Save Even If It Is One Note – Financial stability doesn’t require big amounts. Start small, even ...

Tomorrow, I find myself tasked with making desserts for a reunion of friends, and I can’t help but feel the weight of it. I know, I know – it’s supposed to be a joy. A gathering of 32 years of friendship, all wrapped up in a few hours of food, laughter, and nostalgia. But truth be told, as much as I cherish these friends and the memories we’ve built, the idea of catering for 20 people feels like stepping into a kitchen battle I’m not sure I’m ready to face. I’ve been thinking about what to make. A chocolate boozie brownie? Maybe. Some cookies, the ones you sprinkle with colorful delights to make them look as fun as they taste? That could work too. But at the heart of it, I know I’m really making these for the kids—their kids, to be specific. The adults will probably nibble, but it’s those little ones I’m really catering to. And if I’m honest with myself, I know I’d rather dive straight into dessert before anything else. My sweet tooth is fierce, and I’ll gladly go there before I even t...

Jessie Smollet once said, “Hurt people hurt people,” and I can’t think of a more accurate way to describe the environment I was in not too long ago. It’s so easy to get caught in a web of envy and bitterness, where some people can’t handle the success of others. They’re stuck in their old patterns, living in disbelief and resentment because others are shining brighter, moving faster, and doing better. The truth is, they never clap for anyone else because they’re too busy fighting their own internal battles. For a long time, I found myself in a space that I knew wasn’t healthy for me. I was in a place where I was surrounded by people who didn’t celebrate my growth, my wins, or my dreams. Instead, it felt like they were constantly trying to dim my light. I lived in a space I didn’t own, surrounded by people I didn’t respect. Worse, I was carrying the weight of responsibilities I couldn’t bear and wasn't ready to face. People who, in their own way, expected me to take care of them, bu...

  My Music List for 2024: A Reflection on Love, Life, and Heartbreak As I sit down to reflect on the rollercoaster of emotions that 2024 has thrown at me, my music playlist tells the story better than words ever could. These ten songs—each one a piece of the puzzle—capture the highs, the lows, and the turning points that shaped my year. Some of these tracks are full of love and hope, while others speak to the pain and heartbreak that has followed me. This playlist isn't just a list of songs; it's a soundtrack to my life in the past year. My Top Ten Songs of 2024: A Thousand Years – Christina Perri Why I Love You So Much – Monica Love Me Like You Do – Ellie Goulding Too Good at Goodbyes – Sam Smith Broken Man – Anthony Hamilton Hello Darlin – KC and JoJo Everytime You Go Away – Brian McKnight Love of My Life (Live) – Queen Pretty Slowly – Benson Boone Still I Rise – Tupac Each of these songs speaks to a different part of my journey this year. Some make me smile, others...

 Leaving a toxic workplace is never an easy decision, but sometimes it’s the most empowering choice you can make for your well-being. Whether you’re dealing with a difficult boss, unmanageable workloads, constant office drama, or an overwhelming lack of support, choosing to resign can be the first step toward reclaiming your mental, emotional, and even physical health. While stepping away from a job, especially one where you've invested time and energy, can feel daunting, it’s important to remember that a toxic work environment can take a severe toll over time. Here’s why leaving a toxic workplace might just be the best decision for you and how you can navigate this transition with confidence. For many people, the signs of a toxic workplace are all too familiar. It starts with constant feelings of stress and anxiety, a never-ending cycle of pressure, and perhaps even dread as the workday approaches. When your job becomes a source of emotional and mental strain, it can be hard to im...