Anyhow, you already know what time it is! Every year I dedicate time to do two things:

1. Reflect on the prior year — usually by scrolling through my phone and pulling out the memories that were important to me…and then writing it all out. I’ve been doing this for 16+ years…so if you really sleuth in these web streets, you will find them all 😅 I did a full one for 2025— but you won’t find it on my public page. If I know you on a personal level and you are curious, just drop a line and I will share a direct link.
2. Set my intentions for the upcoming year — for the past 8+ years, in place of a formal new years resolution I’ve selected a word of the year. My word is intended to guide how I approach navigating the year — from relationships, to work, to my personal goals. Usually the word just comes to me…and I run with it.

The word really waited until the last minute this year….but we made it!

✨2026: Courage (also dubbed, “2020 Fix”)

Side note: I’m very unserious and still attempting to do a play on words with 2020….so just roll with my trying to make “2020 fix” somehow work.

Anyhow, usually when I land on a word for the upcoming year it’s very clear. And I have ample time to settle in with it. But for this year, it was different. I don’t know if God and I took last year’s word of “Peace” too seriously…but the final 2026 word wasn’t clear until the very last minute. Not knowing what it was and fear of choosing the wrong one had me stressed the last few days… but we got there. It did take a few rounds though:

• When the first word came (Trust), I rejected it. I told my sister that couldn’t be the word…because I wasn’t sure of what it meant for my personal growth, and it made me nervous about what was on the horizon that I don’t know about just yet.
• Once I started writing my 2025 reflection, a second word came (Confidence). It felt related and closer to Trust and my reflection…but still didn’t feel quite right.
• I finished my reflection, and decided to sleep on it. A third word came (Presence)….which felt like it completed a bigger picture.

If you know anything about me, 3 is my favorite number. I think in 3’s, talk in 3’s, process — you name it (some of my nerd out on 3’s here). So it only make sense that my word would finally come this way as well.

Each individual word mapped directly to different areas of my life, that I need to focus on to allow Courage to materialize in the year.

A lot of people would assume that I have courage based on things I’ve done in my personal and professional life. In fact, last year one of my managers shared with me that during a performance calibration meeting he had shared with other leaders I was “fearless, but not reckless.” It’s stuck with me ever since.

But, courage is a slightly different.

For me, I’m not afraid to do most things…as long as they’re things I’m not actually afraid to do. But when I’m actually afraid to do something…I’ll find every way to do anything but it.

That’s what I’ll be challenged to work through this year.

I have the courage to be my true self and continue to grow through the things that make me uncomfortable.

In practice, I’ll work through my Trust (in God), Presence (in community), and Confidence (in myself) to have true courage.

🙏🏾Trust, in God

I have to actually trust that what is meant to be, will be.

In 2021, “Faith” was my word of the year. That also happened to be the only year I didn’t finishing write a formal reflection for at the end of 2020….or write a post around the word year beyond instagram.

Looking back at the post now halfway through the decade, and with a nod to “peace”…it feels somewhat full circle.

I’ve been actively working to rebuild my relationship with God last year. I continued to grown in my faith and genuinely do believe He will do what He says he will…eventually. However, I don’t always trust that He’ll do it when I need it.

That’s where I need to grow. I asked ChattyG to help me break down the difference between growing my faith vs. my trust.

So for 2026, I’m committed to building my capacity for trusting in God in all things.

In practice, I plan to:

1. Do a Daniel Fast in 2026
2. Get involved with serving in my church
3. Incorporate devotionals back into my day-to-day habits

🫂 Presence, in Community

I have to be in community not only in proximity, but in presence.

Now, there is nuance to this one. I have a strong community of friends locally, nationally, and globally. I regularly attend and am invited to social events (birthdays, weddings, other celebrations)…but I tend to be more in community for those things in proximity. When I’m around, I’m very present and protective of the time I have with others

But when I’m not…well I can be delinquent on getting back to texts, socials, or even reaching out to proactively check-in or share that someone came to mind. It’s something I used to more naturally, but between my personal capacity and….life, it’s been a struggle. I experienced the benefits of being in regular community in 2025, but I recognize I have to do better and nurture how I participate on a personal level.

It takes courage to do that because life has happened…and the relationships are not the same. So reachouts may not be received. They could be rejected. They could be ignored….or dare I say, keeping the same energy. But either way, I still need to do it.

So for 2026, I’m committed to being more present with my community, in the moments when we’re not actively together.

In practice, I plan to:

1. Do at least 1 dedicated visit / quarter to see a non-local friend, not tied to an event.
2. Host friend(s) over at my place at least once / quarter.
3. When a friend comes to mind — share it and something with them (voice note, text, gift, call, etc.)

🙏🏾Confidence, in myself

I need to own my stories, identity, and growth, so that I can be confident in who I am, and the next version who I’m growing to be.

This last one is more vulnerable to share.

I’m confident in a lot of areas when it comes to work, family, how to help others think through navigating different situations. It comes naturally to me, but I’ve also had enough life experiences that have helped me grow in those areas.

Where I’m not as confident in is owning who I am…fully. And how I may or may not show up to others. And that’s made me default to more quiet confidence. Letting my work speak for me in professional spaces. Letting my relationships and actions speak for me in more personal spaces.

Internally, I know exactly who I am, what and how I think, and why I do. Especially when I take the time to put pencil to paper (or fingers to keyboard), there’s no confusion.

But what I know and own inside, doesn’t always translate externally because:

• Despite the wealth of receipts, accolades, and life experiences, I’m afraid that really owning those things will equate to me lacking humility.
• Despite the community I have built and nurtured, I’m afraid the community that I have not nurtured or unintentionally harmed, will create a narrative that doesn’t fully represent who I am.
• Despite people constantly reaching out for advice whether I put myself out there or not, I’m afraid that I’m not “qualified” enough to actually help them.
• Despite people saying they love my writing, I’m afraid to put out more because I’m afraid of the shame if doesn’t hit the same standard every time.
• Despite having started and ended multiple businesses, I’m afraid that doing another, no matter how big or small, will equate to me doing too much or not deserving support — again. To quote a very wise friend, “There’s a funny weight around doing something for the first time again, being a beginner somewhere and a practitioner somewhere else.”
• Despite having things to say and information to share, I’m afraid that I’ll be rejected because my intent will be confused with wanting to influence, rather than impact. Or that I won’t actually be adding anything of value or impact.

A lot of my fear rests in how I will be received and perceived. This year, I want to be less afraid of what people will say, or think…and just live in and own who I am. Because the reality is that people will always have something to say anyways.

Take this as my first act of courage for the year by naming those things out loud. Especially outside of therapy or my closest friends.

There’s more to come.

So for 2026, I’m committed to having the confidence to put myself out there and more fully own who I am…and who I’m not.

In practice, I plan to:

1. Finally launch my personal website.
2. Apply to and seek out public speaking opportunities.
3. Publicly share my thoughts, learnings, or experience in a thoughtful manner at least once per quarter.
4. Soft launch my [redacted] passion project.

And that’s a word!

2026 already feels uncomfortable, but I’m walking into it with plenty of courage for the growth I will come out of on the other side.

Happy New Year, all!

📸 💛 I want the gift of memories.

✨ It’s almost time for my birthday! ✨

One of my favorite facts about my birthday, is that it’s one of only two days in the calendar year that doubles as a complete sentence — March first (3/1)…and March fo[u]rth (3/4). I like to believe that’s where my drive comes from.

But beyond the date itself, these past few years have been special. I’ve been fortunate to have 2 very special birthdays back to back. When I turned 33, it was particularly special because “3” is my favorite number.

And this year…is one of my personal milestone birthdays. Because I’m turning 34 on 3/4. And as a numbers nerd, I couldn’t be more excited for it.

🔃 Looking Back

But excitement aside— I have to reflect on #33, to give context for #34.

33 was a year of a lot of transition and closure. I hit my first year in DC and continue to love it. I hit my lowest financial point in years. I returned to corporate, with a pivot into product management. We made the decision to sunset Retrospect after a 4+ year journey. For a while, I was working both jobs while trying to transition the company. This on top of hitting year 3 as a part-time caregiver (!). Frankly, it’s been a lot.

And for the longest while, all of those things combined was making me say — “all I want my birthday is go do a solo trip somewhere and be by myself to rest.”

….but as I’ve started to regain more time and rest…I realized that’s not entirely true. Yes, my word for this year “Peace”…and I am continuing to protect that, despite the exhausting changes happening around us. But I know that I also want to get back into community with people. But like, gentle community — not anything that will stress me out.

So as I prepare for 34, I know that celebrating this birthday needs to look a little bit different for me. And where I’m landing…is that I want to celebrate this year with people in ways that go beyond my actual birth date.

🎁 What I want for 34

I want the gift of memories for 34.

I know. It sounds cheesy, but as I think about what would bring me so much joy this year, it is the gift to Time & Memories from the people I love.

This was actually inspired my a gift this woman’s friends put together for her: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DD58qubN8rv/?igsh=MXJsM21xcXh4Z2l6Zw==

I remember watching it and thinking — what a beautiful way to celebrate and capture so may experiences. So I want something a little bit like that…but with my own flavor.

I’ll be honest. I feel a little self-conscious asking for this…because it’s not really in my nature to do so. But part of my growth the past few years has been in asking and saying exactly what I want. And giving people the opportunity and option to do what they want with that information.

So…here’s where you come in. What I would love for my birthday is:

🎉 If you’re local during my birthday week…join me on anyone of these birthday activities. I’m planning to do them all, whether I end up doing them solo or not. I’m planning on:

• Going to a Mardi Gras celebration at a Black-owned wine spot on Monday (3/3)
• Taking the day off work & doing some sort of self care during the day (cooking class / massage / writing/ sleeping?) and dinner at a friend’s restaurant on Tuesday (3/4)
• Resting on (3/5)
• Salsa dancing on Thursday (3/6)
• Heading to my parent’s for a few days to celebrate my mom’s birthday (3/7 and after).

Note: Times are hard right now, so no expectations or pressure here. Take it more like…this is where and how you can find me celebrating during the week if you’d like to stop by.

📍 If you’re local generally…plan something for us to do together over the next few months. It could be as simple as a couch date (at yours or mine), taking a class together, doing an activity, a picnic on the weekend, etc. Whatever it is, I’ll provide the dates — and looking for you to plan it.

🌎 If you’re not local…share something I can save and revisit. Do it in whatever medium you prefer (text / email / voice note / video) at any point between 3/4/25–3/3/26. The content…can really be anything. I just want some very intentional, shared memory between us that I can hold on to. Also if gifts are your thing, I’m also open to that. If you need a what, you can never go wrong with a candle or something that is kitchen specific so I think of you every time I’m using it!

And that’s it. My hope is that coming up on my 35th birthday next year, I’ll have captured a wealth of memories that I can always return to no matter what happens over the next few year.

As always, thank you for the gift of your time in reading this. And if you choose to celebrate on one of the ways above with me…I appreciate you in advance 💛!

It still doesn’t feel like the first day of a new year is here. But somehow, 2024 really came and went.

That said…you already know what time it is! Every year I dedicate time to do two things:

1. Reflect on the prior year — usually by scrolling through my phone and pulling out the memories that were important to me…and then writing it all out. I’ve been doing this for 15+ years…so if you really sleuth in these web streets, you will find them all 😅 I did continue tradition and did a lengthy reflection on 2024— but you won’t find it on my public page. If I know you on a personal level and you are curious, just drop a line and I will share a direct link.
2. Set my intentions for the upcoming year — for the past 7+ years, in place of a formal new years resolution I’ve selected a word of the year. My word is intended to guide how I approach navigating the year — from relationships, to work, to my personal goals. Usually the word just comes to me…and I run with it.

Some years I’ve only had time to do an hour or two of this of reflection. And some years, I’ve had a healthy amount of days to do it. This year I lost count of the days, so I am doing this on the last day of 2024 to reflect and dream on the upcoming year.

✨2025: Peace (also dubbed, “2020 Revive”)

Okay — so maybe not revive, but I couldn’t put a pause on the wordplay with phrases in this decade, so just work with me, lol.

Every year when the word comes my way, it is gifted to me. The best way I can explain it is that one moment I’m doing nothing…and the next there is a phrase that is repeatedly going off in my head. And I just know I have to be prepared for whatever it’s telling me.

This year, I knew my word the year by September 2024. I kept hearing it and saying it randomly to folks that “my word for next year is ‘peace’ so I’m preparing for that.” 2024 gave me so much, but it also took a lot of my energy.

I knew that this year was going to be a reset for many reasons. I thought it was more in a peace and “reset” way — which I still believe is part of it — but in writing my reflection and this section, I know it’s also in a peace and “revive” way.

It’s my year of peace.

It was necessary, but I gave so much in the past few years to my family and my work. While those things are very important to me, I also got derailed from some of the joy and freedom I found in 2023.

I want to take the time to realize that peace in a way that’s sustainable for the changes and challenges I know are coming in this next season and chapter of my life.

That means I need to reset, reevaluate, and revive the parts of me that went a bit silent over the past few years.

So this year, I’m intentionally focusing on things that bring peace to my heart, my mind, my body, my soul, and my spirit.

As I’m writing this year’s, I’m less sure about what each of these looks like in practice. Usually I have a little more clarity or a specific set of points in mind…but I think that’s why this year is needed. For each area, I’m going to draw very loose inspiration from a “piece” or work of art that captures it’s essence. I’ll try to list at least 2 things that fit within in:

💜 Peace to my heart

“Beautiful, Black Woman.” -Peace

I want my heart to feel at rest. The things and people that trigger my anxiety, minimize me to a previous version of myself, reduce my confidence, silence me, fail to hear or believe me the first time, take me for granted or advantage of me…all of those are heartbreakers. So I want to expose my heart to less of that.

I want to release my heart from relationships that are healthy for it. Whether it be family, friends, or romantic ones.

I also want to say no — and have that answer be sufficient; or at least for my heart to feel at peace with it and any response from that.

1. I want to have at least 1 couch date per month
2. I will say no to at least 1 thing per month that I can do, but don’t want to do.

🧠 Peace to my mind

“The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:7.

There’s a new administration coming in down the street, and I’m newly back to corporate — need I say more?

But real talk, I only want to spend the time that is necessary worrying or pondering about the things that impact me, but are out of my control. No more, no less. I want to be intentional with how I protect my mind. I want it to be still. And be at rest. The way I think and see the world is different. It is worth sharing and building on for myself, and continuing to use in ways that impact my direct and extended community. Outside of that, I want it to be out of mind for me.

1. I want to read at least one book each quarter.
2. I want to do another Daniel Fast (!).

🏋🏾‍♀️ Peace to my body

“Black women are more likely than other racial and ethnic groups to die from cardiovascular disease, hypertension, stroke, lupus, and several cancers.” — Boston University’s, The Brink

I heard this statistic more and more over the past year. Acting as a caregiver has made the reality more present for me. I want to ensure that I’m putting the habits into practice to put my body in the best position it can be for future me. I want to appreciate being able to move my body. I want to combat some of the physical impacts of the last few years.

1. I want to walk / run at least 15 miles per month.
2. I want to add my Joy Blocks to my corporate calendar.

💫 Peace to my soul

“There’s a peace running deep from my soul.” — Jermaine Edwards

Energetically, I only want to be surrounded by people, things and situations that nurture my soul. Specifically, the ones that bring warmth and a depth of intimacy to it. I want to feel confident in being led by my intuition, and fully trusting that what is for me will be for me.

1. I want to be disciplined in having a local community of believers
2. I will continue to spend time in therapy every other week.

🧘🏾‍♀️Peace to my spirit

“I want peace. I don’t want problems.” — A tiktok audio that I can’t find 😅

I want to remove things from my plate — and not add anything back unto it. I shared that with a friend, and she said we’re going to practice the act of “not going back for seconds.” For me, this means, I want to remove some of the responsibilities that are either unfairly weighing me down…or no longer mine to hold. I don’t want it to be the norm for me to be busy, overbooked, or tired.

And I want to use that extra freedom to pour back into my creativity. Whether it’s through writing, cooking, or traveling on a solo trip I want to be filled with inspiration.

1. I want to do at least one dedicated, personal creative expression activity (writing, cooking, singing, learning a new hobby) per quarter
2. I want to do at least one solo trip and one staycation, that are independent of any other obligations (wedding, baby shower, work trip, etc.).

Honestly, I’m excited for truly embracing the word this year. I know things will come up that challenge that, but I trust that I’m both a place and mindset to handle them as they do.

As always, thank you for the gift of your time with the reading this. Wishing you a Happy New Year 🎇✨!

Ahhhh! I’m 33 🎉

This birthday has so much meaning for me. I wanted to be really intentional with how I planned to honor it. I wrote this in the final hour — i.e., about 3 hours ago….but I do consider this the first gift to myself. I’m honoring my need to to just flow with my thoughts to share why today is so important to me.

✨ 3, 3, 3 ✨

3 has been my favorite number for a long as I can remember.

• Maybe it’s because I was born in the 3rd month of the year?
• Or maybe, it’s because my name has 3 letters?
• Or perhaps, as a Christian, I’ve always seen the trinity as a holy thing?

I couldn’t tell you. But for whatever the reason, I’ve always been drawn to “three.” I used the number as my jersey number whenever I could growing up. And I always think about things in categories or groups of 3. I even tend to write or communicate with a healthy of rhythm of 3's.

So my 3rd year, in my 3rd decade is a pretty big deal to me. Last year I had decided I was going to try and really celebrate this one and get clear on what I wanted this #JesusYear to become. I committed to:

1. Doing a 3 week Daniel Fast leading up to my actual birthday, to get spiritually, emotionally, mentally, and physically aligned for the year.
2. And actually plan a celebration.

Usually planning and setting intentions for these type things is easy for me. But I’ll be honest that I kind of struggled with it. While what’s currently happening now is not necessarily how I imagined it, I also believe it’s how things were supposed to happen.

🎉 Birthdays

Prior to the pandemic, birthdays were always a thing for me. In college I was notorious for helping to throw a good surprise birthday celebration and baking unique cakes for people. And of course, I’ve always I loved celebrating my own.

But 2020 changed things in a very deep way, in how I thought about celebrating the day.

For my 29th birthday celebration, it was supposed to be a combo birthday + formal launch party for my company (Hostowambe). But the date fell during the 2nd week of lockdown in the pandemic and ended up getting canceled.

By my 30th we still didn’t have vaccines, so I did a very small, socially distanced intimate picnic in the park. I also did a series of photoshoots and posts under what I named as #JoysLoveLetterto30 to welcome in the new decade, and show people a deeper side of myself.

For my 31st, I took myself to a Black-owned spa in Brooklyn for the day, did drinks with a friend and, and then went out for a nice, solo steak dinner. I really spent most of the actual day alone.

And then for 32nd, I did a joint birthday house party with a close friend, which was amazing. It felt like I was finally getting to do a “big” birthday thing again.

So coming up on #33, I was really excited to celebrate it in a way that felt “Joy,” and that would bring me a lot of joy. I had this loose dream of doing a series of 3 things to commemorate the day —

1. Something for myself — launching my personal website, doing a solo trip, or a staycation
2. Something with my people— doing a group cooking class, cocktail making class, or going out salsa dancing something of a group social with closer friends
3. Something with my broader community— inviting my friends to church, or just inviting people over into my space, and the place I’ve currently made home

….but as of a week ago, I had planned and made very little progress with any of that. And transparently, I ended up having a bit of breakdown about it during my call with my therapist. I realized that I had been so busy giving so much of myself and my energy to other people, that I was continually compromising on the time I “said” I was going to make plan for this. And I didn’t properly protect the time that I really needed to be able to prioritize what I actually wanted to honor this very special day. And I was disappointed that I didn’t and couldn’t happen make it happen. I was also frustrated that I was feeling so emotionally and physically drained in a way that was opposite of the type of #Abundance that I claimed for myself this year.

So. After a quick — but good — cry, and some serious prayer about what I needed to be doing moving forward, I decided none of those feelings was my portion for #33. And I’m so grateful I was doing my Daniel Fast in this period, because I can honestly say I heard loud and clear what this year needs to be for me.

🙏🏾 3 Weeks to 33: My Daniel Fast

For those who aren’t familiar with a Daniel Fast, it’s a 21-day fast that people do as an act of worship and sacrifice to God (read more specifics here). The very short of it is that it consists of following a diet where only whole foods are allowed. So…basically a vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and sugar-free diet. Oh, and nothing with yeast, fermented, or deep-fried. And nothing but water and tea. It is a struggle.

I’ve personally done it 3 or 4 times before, and every time I’ve done it has been very fulfilling. I’ve gotten clear direction for a major change that was happening or was going to happen, and it was a good personal rest. Usually when I do the fast, I try to replace my cravings with intentional times of prayer.

So given that the last time I did it was about 6 years ago…it had been a minute. But how I could I go into my #JesusYear, without actually making sure me and God were in a good place?!

I’m proud to say that I made it once again. And I’m peace with some of the direction that surfaced in the process.

I’m going to keep this part short, because most of it is between and God and I, and I believe people will see and experience some of those changes this year. But in short:

Physically — my body is a temple, and I need a better job of protecting and nourishing it. That means working on some of my daily habits (upkeep, exercise, what I eat), being disciplined my physical interactions with other people, and better working to manage some of the conditions that are now a part of me.

Mentally — I can accept that I have a lot of quirks, and that sometimes the way my brain is setup…I just might think in a very different way from the people who are in front me. But I have to continue to be ok with that, and not try try to mirror what I see, or mask the way I naturally operate, and adapt in ways that just aren’t healthy for me.

Emotionally & Spiritually — I need to give my energy emotionally and spiritually only to relationships that can bring me peace. Both with God, but also with people I consider myself to be in community with. And just because a relationship was one way for many days, months, or years, if it’s no longer bringing peace and there’s not a willingness to adjust or update the relationship for where it is today, then I need to make peace with letting it go. Because when I’m truly at peace with God and with my community, that’s when people get my realest, biggest, and most authentic level of joy. Like, to the point that it’s contagious — for me and everyone around me, and it overflows.

I got what I needed from this.

🎉3 Things I Desire for 33

As I “march forth”, into March 4th, in my year of 2020 More (…y’all see what I did there? lol) these are my wishes for the year.

1. 💛 I want to continue to protect my joy — Call it selfish, call it boundaries, call it whatever nomenclature is appropriate at the time. But last year I reclaimed Joy and joy for myself, so this year I’m going to protect that so I can sustain it for the long term. And my birthday wish and prayer is to have peace in the situations where I need to be more firm with that.
2. 💓I want to love deeply — I want to love in few different ways. I want to love and be in love with a partner. I’m prioritizing finding love that was created just for me. I also want to continue being spaces and prioritizing people that I love. Andddddd I want to continue to do work that I love.
3. 🤎I want to be seen — I really want to be seen for who I actually am. In my intentions and impact; my dreams; and what I’ve done, can do, and some of the things I dream to do next. Not in the ways people may believe or think that I am, but truly taking the time to understand me now and however I change in the future. I I really just want to feel seen. And to feel safe enough to really let people in.

That’s it. Getting those would be the greatest gifts for the year 🎁

🍾The Celebration

I know….so what am I actually doing to celebrate the day?!

WELL —

1. Over the weekend, a close friend surprised me with tickets for us to see Burna Boy in concert. The set, the experience, all of it was amaaaazing!
2. By the time this posts at 12:01 am, I will happily be biting into a mini-burger that I have saved in the fridge!
3. I will formally “break” my fast and have a last-minute family style dinner with close friends in the area.
4. Then I’m going home for a few days to help out family and celebrate my mom’s birthday.
5. I’ll head to Mexico for a few days for a bachelorette.
6. I’m going to try and do a casual friend meetup.
7. Andddd finally I’m going to finalize the content for my personal website over the next few month.

A lot of different things — but I’m so excited for all of it. YAYYYYYYY it’s a me kind of 33!

🎈🎉🥂For real, Happy birthday to meeeeeeee! 🥂🎉🎈

💫 Bonus: The path to 34

P.s. Maybe God’s plan was for #33 was meant to look slightly different, so I could plan for turning #34 on 3/4 next year? Because as much as I love 3…my angel number has always been 4 so I’m going to keep an eye out…stay tuned.

You already know. Every year I dedicate time to do two things:

1. Reflect on the prior year — usually by scrolling through my phone and pulling out the memories that were important to me…and then writing it all out. I’ve been doing this for 14+ years…so if you really sleuth in these web streets, you will find them all😅 Similar to last year, I did lengthy reflection on 2023 — but you won’t find it on my public page. If I know you on a personal level and you are curious, just drop a line and I will share a direct link.
2. Set my intentions for the upcoming year — for the past 6+ years, in place of a formal new years resolution I’ve selected a word of the year. My word is intended to guide how I approach navigating the year — from relationships, to work, to my personal goals. Usually the word just comes to me…and I run with it.

Some years I’ve only had time to do an hour or two of this of reflection. And some years, I’ve had a healthy amount of days to do it. This year I blocked off this last Saturday of the year to reflect and dream on the next year.

So it’s time to get into 2024…or shall I say, twenty twenty more?

✨2024: Abundance (also dubbed, “2020 More”)

Every year when the word comes my way, it is gifted to me. The best way I can explain it is that one moment I’m doing nothing…and the next there is a phrase that is repeatedly going off in my head. And I just know I have to be prepared for whatever it’s telling me.

So when the overall theme and word came this year…I didn’t fully grasp what it was. We were in a kickoff call for a new client where I just blurted it out that my next word and declaration for the year, was for twenty twenty more. And as soon as I said it — it just felt right. Once I left the meeting the words and my vision for what that could like like started flowing…so this piece was actually started before my reflection, and a little earlier than planned!

But now that I have completed my reflection on 2023 — I have fully clarity for what I want my next year to be about…and why.

It’s my year of abundance.

I have spent my life sacrificing some of my wants, desires, and dreams in exchange for being in service to others. And I truly believe that’s a part of who I am, so I will continue to serve others.

But — 2023 (also dubbed, #2020Free) was also the first year in a long time that I got to pour back into me. And protect and grow my needs and desires. And I recognize that the season is ripe to reap the benefits of my past physical, emotional, and mental labor done — for others, and for myself.

So this year, I’m declaring and openly receiving what I have searched, worked, and fought for.

In terms of how this happens in practice, I’m going to deviate slightly from my traditional personal / romance / family / friends segmentation. Those will naturally be integrated into what I share…but vision is going to look a little different.

🙋🏾‍♀️More: Owning my Joy

Over the years, I’ve shared more of me in disparate places. Sure, you can visit my LinkedIn or read parts of my what, when, and how in different articles. But outside of my blog(s) and sharing directly with friends, family, and teammates…I’ve never put a lot of attention, or intention, to publicly owning my story.

It’s work that I tend do really diligently for others, but never dedicated the proper space or energy to creating for myself. In 2024, my hope is for people to see more of me.

🔑What I believe that will look like in practice

1. Building my Personal brand — I’m really excited about this. My co-founder, Quinnton J Harris, developed a really thoughtful exercise to help me define it. Everything from my why, to how it manifests tonally and visually, all the way to starting to map it into a full experience. I truly feel blessed to have someone who has seen me in many stages and forms to help me bring this to life in way that is fully, authentically, and genuinely me.
2. Publicly Sharing my story — So yes, while my blogs will always be a platform to get to me…I’m going to be a bit more strategic. And for the first time, I’m going to have a personal website. Stay tuned.

📝 More: Receipts

Beyond the brand — it’s one thing to build, share it, and declare it. But it’s a whole other thing for people to believe it.

To be clear — I’m not interested in validation for validations sake. However, it’s important that I can do more than just tell, I need to actively show people the receipts. In doing so, my hope is to continually attract more people, opportunities, and experiences that are in alignment with my why.

🔑 What I believe that will look like in practice

1. Public Recognition — This may be through press and thought leadership, It could be through speaking engagements. It could be through awards. And it could also be through word of mouth. But more recognition for who I am, with what I do. Not just one or the other.
2. Monetarily — For what I have invested in learning, teaching, and sacrificing over the past few years will come in material ways, with monetary value attached. This may be through paid speaking engagements, services I publicly offer, or other channels. And it may come through the type of opportunities and work that we are able to attract and create with Retrospect. Honestly, I hope it’s all of the above.
3. With Others — I plan to share more of what I can tactically do by providing support and services to other people. I want others to tangibly recognize and benefit from the contributions of my skillset. And be willing to share, or socialize, the impact unsolicited.

🤲🏾 More: Support

And to realize any of this abundance, I will continue to need just as much — if not more — support from those who know me, my intentions, and my goals.

🔑 What I believe that will look like in practice

1. Support with Family — There’s still so much to be figured out. But I know I will need a collective level of support from my immediate family, extended family, close friends, and professionals.
2. Emotional Support — It’s easy enough to do process things and be vulnerable after the fact…but I want to do a better job of sharing and asking for + receiving support real-time when I am struggling.
3. Spiritual Support — In the same way that I have been building a social and professional community, I think it is just as important that I build a spiritual community who can help to keep me accountable to how what I’m doing is or isn’t aligned to my relationship with God.

💕 More: Love

And last, but certainly not least…I want an abundance of love.

1. Romantic — I want to attract a love that can only be mine. I want to create a list of what I want in a partner, from everything about their relationship to food and appreciation for my systematic way of communicating all the way to the type of freedom I will have to build and be my own person, while we build in partnership together. I’ve never actually written it down. So in 2024, I plan to make “the list.” And then, I want to pray on it, and for it. And then, I want to share it with close friends to ask for introductions to prospective partners who could be a match. And who knows — If I’m bold enough, I might just post it publicly as well.
2. Friends and community — I want to have a year that is filled with doing more of the things I love, with the people I love, through creating experiences and memories that we will continually love.

And that’s about it.

This year, I’m not only going to receive what comes my way — but I’m also going to actively ask for it, and seek it out. And I’m optimistic. I have no idea how it will pan out — but I’m excited to take the next steps to make it there.

And if you see any immediate ways to help with any of the above, please let me know. I’m open.

Thank you again for the time to read this. Wishing you a Happy New Year 🎇✨!

1. Reflect on the prior year — usually by scrolling through my phone and pulling out the memories that were important to me…and then writing about it. I’ve been doing this for 13+ years…so if you really sleuth in these web streets, you will find them 😅 This year, I did do a very healthy reflection — but you won’t find it on my public page. If I know you on a personal level and you are curious, just drop a line and I will share a direct link.
2. Set my intentions for the upcoming year — for the past 5+ years, in place of a formal new years resolution I’ve selected a word of the year. My word is intended to guide how I approach navigating the year — from relationships, to work, to my personal goals. Usually the word just comes to me…and I run with it.

Some years I’ve only had time to do an hour or two of this of reflection. And some years, I’ve had a healthy amount of days to do it. This year I spent a lot more time on the reflection, which set me up in a solid place to understand what I really want in the upcoming year.

So without further ado, it’s time to get into 2023…or shall I say, twenty twenty free?

2023: Joy

I know. It feels cliché. And this week in looking back at some of my past writing…I actually chose this framing twice in the past, but not as a formal word.

But this year is different. I want to experience every literal and physical manifestation of the word. I want to be joy. Feel joy. Experience joy. And love joy. I want to embody all forms of what it means for me to be, Joy.

So these are my desires — and how I plan to get there.

💛Personally

This is most important. If I can get this right, the rest will come with it because the rest things (romance, friends, family, work) are important parts of me.

🙏🏾 ❤️ What I want

I want to rediscover, redefine, and relive out in ways that are inherently me.
I want to prioritize being in spaces and experiences that bring me joy, at least once a quarter.
I want to find joy again in the act of worship.
I want the feeling of joy to be my default state of being again.
I want to laugh a lot more. I want to find the joy in the small things — and be able to freely and fully enjoy them.
I want to care of myself again, and have that care overflow to others.

✅ What I’m dedicated to do

1. I will block off a dedicated “joy” block at least once a quarter for all of 2023.
2. I will book and invest in at least one dedicated trip (solo or group) for the year.
3. I will continue therapy on a weekly basis.
4. I will reconnect with my church community and commit to regular devotions.
5. I will write something (no matter how short) at least once a quarter.
6. I will ask at least one close friend to play the role in checking-in monthly on how true I am keeping to my personal care goals.

🫂Friendships

Up next. The people around me. Who fill me, and I can mutually fill. And who will help ground me if I lose my way.

🙏🏾 ❤️ What I want

I want my friendships to be a place of mutual joy.
I want to find and prioritize consistent community — local and non-local.
I want to truly reconnect with my people.

✅ What I’m dedicated to do

1. I will reply to all unanswered + delayed texts by the end of February 2023.
2. I will setup time to regularly catchup with close friends.
3. For friends in NY, I will plan to have at least one friend date a month.
4. For non-NY friends, I will plan at least one visit dedicated to just spending time with a friend.
5. I will (selectively) use the power of voice notes a bit more to check-in with friends.
6. I will invest in a tool (hey Clay!) to help me manage my friendship goals.

💞Romance

You knew it was coming — but I’m really ready. Glad I took the time I needed to be real with and work on myself…but baybeeeeee. Time is not getting shorter, mans is not just rolling up to my doorstep (yet!), and covid is going to keep blocking. So, it’s time to actually get back out there.

🙏🏾 ❤️ What I want

I want to feel joy in the intimacy of my relationship to another person, individually and collectively.
I want to find joy in stepping into the fullest of my femininity. I am in the most “attractive” period of my life after all…yes?
I want to find joy in just getting to know people, with intent.

✅ What I’m dedicated to do

1. I really dont want to make any promises 😩 ! But I will go to at least one social event per quarter with the intent to meet + connect with potential love explorations.
2. I will….get back on the apps as a potential partner channel.
3. If I have a feelings, I’m going to share (and receive) them and do my best to reduce my overthinking or over-guessing what may happen if I do.

👩🏾‍💻Work

And last, but not least. The work. I’m resetting my relationship to my current and future work. I’m not always going to love everything I can do, but I want to reclaim some semblence of active choice around it.

🙏🏾 ❤️ What I want

I want to be honest and further explore the type of work brings me joy.
I want to do more of what I like to do, not just what I can do.
I want to be seen and experienced as a joyful, respectful, and real leader.
I want to share more of my thoughts and my work.
I want to grow more in my leadership abilities and presence.

✅ What I’m dedicated to do

1. I will invest in an active branding exercise for myself.
2. I will continue coaching on a monthly basis.
3. I will communicate by boundaries — and keep them. In doing so, I will prioritize my well-being over the work. I will prioritize making sure my needs are sufficiently met to ensure that I can help meet the needs of our team.
4. I will train and release.

And that’s about it.

I’m releasing myself of what held me down in 2022, and I feel confident and comfortable in where I’m headed for 2023. It’ll take work, but I’m truly ready to get there.

Thank you for the time to read this. Wishing you a Happy New Year 🎇✨!

Our team curated a list to help you get started with the event — but we encourage you to learn more about the holiday and be authentic in how you celebrate the occasion.

Before the Party

1.🏡 Decide on the location

Depending on where you’re located, quarantine might have stricter or looser requirements. Keep that in mind as you plan!

Virtual: We all know Zoom — but consider hosting a party on Houseparty, Instagram Live, or Facebook Messenger Rooms/Live.

In-Person: Make sure you have a place that is good for social distancing. We recommend local parks, or small gatherings at a friend or family’s home.

2. ✉️Create your invitation

Keep it simple! You’ll have lots to share during the event. Make sure to include the date, location, and anything you want your guests to know beforehand.

We created a simple template for you to create your own event here!

For an an easy place to collect RSVP’s and host the information, check out Commsor.

3. 🏓 Decide on the vibe, and come up with a few activities your guest can enjoy!

Would your guests enjoy a more casual setting for reflection and conversation? Would you like it to be a time for games or a movie? Maybe a combination to support all your guests?

Come up with a game plan, and then create activities that support it. Some of our favorites are:

⭐️Games

Play Spades:

• How to play spades by Kevonstage. We recommend sending this out to your guests to watch beforehand!
• You can play and game with your guests virtually here.

Black Card Revoked:

• Learn a bit of black culture through this original card game and support black business owners while doing so: https://cardsforallpeople.com/products/black-card-revoked-original-flavor

⭐️Movies:

Organize an in-person or virtual Netflix Party. We recommend one of these movies:

• 13th
• When They See Us
• Just Mercy
• I am Not Your Negro
• Or any ones from the list curated for Black History Month

4.🍴 Figure out the food

One of the foundations of Juneteenth is the food. We recommend either catering food — to save you the hassle of cooking everything, or organizing a potluck!

Order from a local black-owned restaurant:

• Bay Area List
• EatOkra — an app to find your local black-owned restaurants.
• Official Black Wall Street App — an app to find local black businesses.

Make it yourself:

• If you choose to do a potluck, PerfectPotluck is a great tool to help you streamline who is bringing what! Be sure to consider the dietary restrictions of your guests and have a few options that work for everyone.

Recipes:

This is our sample menu to help you get started:

• 🍹 Cocktail: Hibiscus Tea Cocktail & Mocktail & Wine from a black-owned vineyard
• 🍉 Appetizer: Watermelon
• 🍴 Main Course: Barbecue wings, brisket, chicken — whatever you have!
• 🥗Sides: Collard Greens and Sweet Potatoes
• 🥧Dessert: Strawberry Slab Pie

During the Celebration

1. 👐 Have everyone be part of it

A festive addition to the event is to come up with a theme. Given that the event is centered around Juneteenth, you could have guests come in the representative diaspora colors (red, black, or green) — or dressed in clothing from a black-owned seller.

2. 🎈Decorate, decorate, decorate

On that note — decorations will bring everything together, even if your guests forget to wear their colors.

Balloons and hints of colors red, black, and green thrown around the room are the perfect addition.

If you’re doing a virtual celebration, consider having everyone use a black-themed background.

3. 📖 Reflection

Take time to reflect with guests and express gratitude for the black community. You can do this with a toast, reading the Emancipation Proclamation, or make it part of one of the activities!

4. 🎵Music

It wouldn’t be a party without the right music! Consider streaming one of these playlists:

• Black, Queer, and Proud (it’s also Pride Month!)
• Black Lives Matter
• Gymhooky: Body and the Beat

5. 📸Document the moment

Have fun and take pictures! If you post to social media, hashtag #juneteenth2020, #hellacreative, #blacklivesmatter, and #blackjoymatters. And if you choose, tag us as well (@hostowambe)!

Planning another event for yourself, close friends, or family? Feel free to check out the planners on Hostowambe and let us know how we can help!

How to host the perfect Juneteenth Celebration was originally published in Hostowambe on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

I’m tired.
I’m anxious.
I’m scared.
I’m frustrated.
I’m sick.
I’m annoyed.
I’m being repeatedly traumatized with no end in sight.
I’m exhausted.

I don’t want to continually recount that. I don’t want to feel the pressure of giving you a typical positive or affirming reply, and be reminded yet again that I don’t have the privilege to just not think about what’s happening. Especially if we’re not really friends like that. So please — stop asking that question.

I’m not going to lie, what’s happening right now….it feels different. But we’ve been here before. The last time I saw and experienced this type of energy was around the death of #TrayvonMartin. Yet, eight years later, here we are again. Only, much worse.

For far too long, I’ve protected the feelings of too many white people around me. The ones who don’t understand, and have never really tried to understand their privilege in the world. Whether that was acquaintances, colleagues, or friends I made sure to try and have conversations around race with an empathetic lens. I willingly took on the emotional labor of trying to explain (and defend) my experiences, and the injustices that I saw. I thought that if I could at least be someone that white people saw as a person, colleague, friend — or really, any title first, that maybe…just maybe they would care when I shared those experiences.

But the truth is, doing that took a toll that I didn’t learn to manage well. I went from marching in protests and vocalizing my anger online, to centering my work around advocating for and advancing the careers of people of color. Of being seen for only doing that type of work, but not capable of doing other non-diversity related work. All the while using the voice and privilege of my positions, without actually being vulnerable in how personal it was for me. I made it strictly professional, and lost of sight of my ability to do the work and be okay with making it personal. Sure, I would confide with other black and/or trusted people of color with my feelings and things that were happening and said to me, but I wasn’t vocal in the same way. Because I thought that was the way that would help people understand.

But it didn’t protect me.

It didn’t protect me from my classmates who said I “only” got into MIT because I was a black woman who wanted to do engineering.

It didn’t protect me from the leadership within my recruiting teams telling me that while they wanted support more “diversity,” they just weren’t looking to lower the bar.

It didn’t protect me from being mixed up with the other “black woman” at the company.

It didn’t protect me from colleagues who commented on my change in hairstyle with “Wow! Your hair is so different. Can I touch it?”…with fingers already deep in my hair.

It didn’t protect me from people mistaking my passion as aggression.

It didn’t protect me from being followed around stores to make sure I wasn’t stealing anything.

It didn’t protect me from leadership who brought up in a meeting that I called that “some people have expressed that you make them uncomfortable,” and when I questioned why that was the first time I heard that feedback and why there were no specific examples, to be told that “well, we just weren’t sure how you would react.”

It didn’t protect me from the investors who said my company was a great idea, but that the niche I should really focus on was “cultural events” because they were sure I could relate more to those. (context: they were stating I could relate to those more than my original niche of birthdays, graduations, & baby showers)

It didn’t protect me from colleagues who couldn’t understand why I would rather commute 1.5 hours everyday and live in a city that I could see other black people, than live in and work all day, every week in a city that it was rare to see and interact with someone who looked like me.

It didn’t protect me from the times I voiced microaggressions, to be told to just “assume good intent” or to be questioned as to “well, maybe they meant…” or “to play devil’s advocate…”.

So today, I’m choosing to protect me and those like me. I’m learning to unlearn some of the ways that I had to navigate the early parts of my twenties to build credibility, and push the grain just a little bit to let people see the reality that black people have lived for years.

What does that look like?

It means that while we are still in the middle of a pandemic and I’m dealing with my own trauma from all that’s happening — I don’t have the capacity to educate my non-black counterparts on the parts of my experiences that they failed to listen to before. I’m not the person to try and validate people’s newfound effort to try to understand that this wasn’t only affecting those black people, it was affecting me too. And I can’t and don’t want to help you process through the emotions that are suddenly becoming more real for you.

This time, I can’t do it. I don’t mean to be harsh — I do mean to be honest.

But if you truly want to understand the black experience playing out before your eyes…there’s so much information and resources out there. There are people who look like me, who are willing to do the work of helping you navigate this. If you look, you’ll find them and you will find the information you need. I encourage you to do so. And when you do, make sure your intentions are in the right place. This is not just something for you to “react to” this month because “you’re a good person and what’s happening is so sad.” If you truly begin to understand how deep and systemic this is, you’ll do the work of unlearning and relearning how to make things right. And it’ll be uncomfortable and take time, so make sure you’re in it for the long haul. All I ask, is that as you learn — do your part. In words, and in action.

For my non-black allies who are already there, thank you for all the support and the work that you have already been doing and will continue to do. I see you and appreciate you.

All in all, I’m cautiously optimistic about the change that could happen. And nervous about the process to get there. But I’ll be watching and doing my part, and I hope we make it.

Just please, don’t ask me how I’m doing.

Natelegé Whaley on Twitter

I am so sorry to anyone who was looking forward to their wedding, graduation, a milestone birthday, or any other special occasion during this time and doesn't know when they'll get to celebrate it now. 😞

We’re just closing out the first quarter of the year, and the country’s officially & unofficially on quarantine from social gatherings. Who could have imagined?

I definitely couldn’t have! I for one, had already bought my dress & been working with one of the planners on Hostowambe to prepare for my birthday party this weekend.

Unfortunately, fast forward to today. Not only has my party been cancelled, but so have many events and celebrations around the world. We support the spirit of cancel everything to #FlattenTheCurve, but we recognize the need to continue to celebrate moments — big or small!

Nana Kwame on Twitter

You are cordially invited! https://t.co/35TUevbGG6

Okay, so maybe not like that.

But between weddings, birthday parties, soon-to-virtual graduations — some of life’s biggest moments are taking a backseat. We want to help! We’ve listed a few ways to still celebrate and find community during this time. We know we didn’t capture everything, but we hope it inspires you to keep the spirits up and find ways to virtually get together!

Thanks to instructions like these, we’re seeing a rise of virtual events! We’re excited to share a few of our favorites that have popped up on the scene.

Outside of more group check-ins with family & friends, here’s what we’re seeing:

🎈 Virtual Birthday Parties

They’re becoming a thing! Create party hats, bake a cake, and setup a zoom call for your family & friends to join in. We don’t recommend trying to group sing happy birthday, though!

Brittany Lapidus on Twitter

@BarbraStreisand you're cordially invited! Would love to see you at my virtual birthday party! 🎂

RogueRachael on Twitter

I just hosted my first ever virtual birthday party 🥳 while self-isolating here in Seattle. Thanks to the friends who called in from across the country. We can do this, y'all. We just need to commit. Let's help each other in any way we can. #seattleshutdown #SocialDistancingNow

🎓Graduation

Can’t even imagine what this will look like — but we’re keeping our eye out for livestreams & virtual hat tosses!

Diane Eble on Twitter

Family stuff today. Son's hs graduation is tomorrow. Getting him a gift today, baking cake. Planning a "virtual party."http://bit.ly/L7F96

Atasha Jordan, MD, MBA on Twitter

CANCELED MATCH DAY CEREMONY DUE TO COVID-19? ALTERNATIVE WAYS TO CELEBRATE THE BIG DAY https://t.co/nxbfElcMUV https://t.co/l0vJpgioLT

👶Virtual Baby Showers

It didn’t take the virus to start these! But not everyone is royalty — so pop down to the next picture for tactical suggestions.

ʀᴏʏᴀʟ sᴜssᴇx sǫᴜᴀᴅ ᴘᴏᴅ on Twitter

Prince Harry & Meghan Markle's Virtual Baby Shower Donations Are Already Making Quite An Impact https://t.co/5Jqt4pH1bR

Lisa Merring on Twitter

@dctetreault Change it up! https://t.co/Z5dDoFakPT

🎊Virtual dance party

We recommend Zoom, Crowdcast, Skype, or Google Hangouts for free and simple solutions to set this up. If you do a dance party, this is a great way to hire + support your DJ friends in a time of less gigs!

Jessica Brown on Twitter

I'm at a virtual dance party hosted by @blackjoyparade. 10/10 would recommend joining! #BlackJoy https://t.co/Umc8o2b0Jz

The OG Devil's Agvocate on Twitter

Through all the fighting, the politics, the BS, we as people will overcome and this is prof: a DJ is hosting a live dance party for everyone stuck at home. We're going to be alright. https://t.co/O9GBTkPGi3

🍽Cook together with friends

Look through recipes and create your own “virtual cooking show,” or follow a recipe together with friends and vote on who made it best.

Anil Dash @ 🏠 on Twitter

What is everyone cooking at home?

💻 Virtual conferences

We’re impressed by the speed and agility for people to pivot their conferences online. These are a few options that have been scheduled— but if you know of others, let us know and we’ll try to get the word out :)

Wayne Sutton on Twitter

We're going virtual! @techinclusionco Global Summit May 12th, 9am PST Free RSVP https://t.co/xHfntHCrxE NY is canceled The work is still needed. Safety first. https://t.co/vsdqbvUKvo

Daniel Adeyanju on Twitter

So we're putting together a virtual #altsxsw conf #StayByStayHomeW Asking the twitter fam to: 1) RSVP @ https://t.co/yDKU8EVHJf 2) Suggest dynamic speakers who can light up a laptop screen + add value 3) Sponsors and recruiting cos 4) Your help getting the word out 5) Volunteers

Ryan Lanciaux on Twitter

Hey #DeveloperCommunity! We need your help. We're trying to help create a place for tracking which events are cancelled, deferred, or continuing in light of #COVID19. Would love any event information, feedback, or help spreading the word about this site. https://t.co/PNa9cdnnCg https://t.co/TRhd0t1AaY

📕Book clubs

Maya in the Louvre 💜 🍭 on Twitter

Had anyone thought about doing a virtual listening or reading party? That would be super cool to be apart of a virtual skype book club or poetry sharing party. Who's down?

Eric Colleary on Twitter

I've put together a how-to guide for creating online play-reading book clubs. We've been doing in-person versions of this in Austin over the past year. Please share & post tips, calls for readers, & your own reading lists with #ReadPlays. https://t.co/oXafPsFXRB

👋Virtual happy hour + meetups

I’m definitely considering hosting a virtual Sip & Paint…but this list is a good place to start :)

If you just want organic social time, the Hostowambe team will be hosting our own virtual socials throughout the week as well! Feel free to pop-in :)

Casey Newton on Twitter

Got a FUN week of #WFHHappyHour coming your way with @hunterwalk. Monday: @JessicaLessin and @TaylorLorenz on media during a pandemic Tuesday: @StevenLevy and @SarahFrier on their new Facebook books PLUS fun surprises. We'll drop the Zoom link here at 5P PT!

Andreas Klinger ✌️ on Twitter

Crowd-sourcing online happy-hours and impromptu video sessions. This could become a useful resource. Let's see if this works: Imho add your stuff. It doesn't have to be big or perfect. Anything can be fun and it's worth a try 🥳 👇 https://t.co/5sBYBdCO9v

Charlie O'Donnell on Twitter

If you're running a virtual event for NYC startups in the next couple of weeks, please submit it here so I can put it in tomorrow's newsletter: https://t.co/x3fGgjh25y

🎲Virtual game night

Who says you can only do Mafia or Resistance in-person?

Ruth LeFaive on Twitter

Trying to convince my mom to stay home for a while. Hoping we can have a virtual family game night. https://t.co/gSPXEweUzo

Nicole Paulhus on Twitter

Game Night: Quarantine Edition

🎥Throw a watch party

This is a great way to be able to watch and do live commentary with friends as things go down! Kast and Facebook Live are a great place to start.

Watch Party

WDSD Conference on Twitter

Join our Facebook WATCH PARTY to hear people with Down syndrome tell the world their experiences of and insights into inclusive participation. Join us live on 20 March - 07:00 (PDT) 10:00 (EDT) 14:00 (GMT) Click GOING to the event here: https://t.co/ZYLPHQG2W1

👐Volunteer

There’s many ways to give back in this time! Find whatever ways you can to support the community by running errands or financially supporting communities that are taking a hit. If you have the privilege to, encourage your company to do so as well!

Celine Halioua on Twitter

We need volunteers to help assemble COVID-19 testing kits starting tomorrow in SF. email team@curativeinc.com if you can help

Eric Ries on Twitter

We are looking for parents to beta-test a school-closure-resources hotline. Have a minute to dial in? Help make sure we are ready for the wave of families who are becoming involuntary homeschoolers for the first time - tomorrow https://t.co/ackL78SPtu

Melinda Briana Epler on Twitter

Find ways to check in with family in nursing homes and other assisted living facilities. Teach them how to use Zoom or Google hangout or FaceTime. Call them. Keep showing you care.

💪Keep your wellness in check for post-Corona socials

And finally, we can’t predict when…but we know once the tide rolls over, there will be many reasons to celebrate in person. Make sure that you stay mentally & physically healthy for those celebrations!

Ariel | Health & Fitness Coach on Instagram: "Are you working from home to reduce your risk of the Coronavirus? I've put together a free guide to help you adjust to this change in your..."

Megan Maloney on Twitter

My friends @Op_e__n (welcome to Twitter! :) ) are hosting 10 min virtual meditation sessions to help us get through this. First one on Monday 🙏🏾 : https://t.co/tmAatFI5dA https://t.co/Znj5oa1Egu

Alexia Bonatsos on Twitter

When this COVID situation is all over, it's going to feel so good, ecstatic even, to gather in a large group, work from your office and give people hugs.

We couldn’t agree more — and hope this helped in the meantime! If you try out any of these, please tag us @hostowambe — we would love to celebrate with you!

We may not know tomorrow — but we can still celebrate today. We can’t wait to see the virtual owambe’s that you do!

Need help planning one of the above or just want someone to bounce ideas off? Message our team at hello@hostowambe.com or hit us up on social (Instagram | Twitter)!

📖 Since we get it a lot…what does Hostowambe mean?

In Yoruba, owambe usually refers to a Nigerian party with lots of food, dancing, drinks, and festivities. Our philosophy is that everyone should be able to “host” owambe.

Read more about Hostowambe here.

🎉🎈 How to keep celebrating during Social Distancing was originally published in Hostowambe on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

It’s been a while since you’ve heard from us — we promise work has been happening behind the scenes. We’re looking forward to showing off some of the progress and events that have happened in 2020 so far!

For now, in light of current affairs, we thought it was important to share more publicly part of the update we provided to our team this morning:

Hello all,

We hope this message finds you in good health!

2020 has started off with a few bumps, but we’re moving forward and committed to having an upturn.

In the most recent news, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on our business. As the core of our business is focused on in-person events, we have been dealing with cancellations as well as the heightened pressure around supporting the relationships with our event planners who are feeling the economic downturn on their businesses. We have encouraged those we are working with to consider cancelling any social gatherings.

During this period, our focus will be set on continuing to support our planners, and preparing for the wave of gatherings & events (new & rescheduled) that we anticipate to happen later this year.

Wide scale social distancing was definitely not something we were prepared for — but we’re optimistic about what comes next. The grand shift to working from home has definitely increased awareness of the value of social gatherings. We’re excited to take this on!

📣Bonus Section

-Check-in with the planners & small business owners in your life. Support them where you can.

-Practice healthy in-person social distancing — but also use this time to reconnect with people online (social & video platform) during virtual lunch or coffee breaks.

As always, thanks for reading along! Looking forward to continuing to share more along the way.

Joy
Founder and CEO

We’re working up a few suggestions for how to stay social and keep celebrating during this time, so keep an eye out for that post.

In the meantime, please stay safe & keep washing your hands! 👐

😷COVID-19 Update was originally published in Hostowambe on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.