Ebony on Everything

Today, I had breakfast at Marigold Cafe in Toledo, OH. I can’t say how long it has been there, but it was my first time. The food was good and I ate all of it. I don’t know if I was being greedy or the food was just that good 😆. I was joined by one of my soul sister and another friend. We laughed and laughed, and I am so happy to have spent that time with them. Every time I am social, I enjoy myself and say, “Why don’t I do this more often?” I wish I had a clear answer to that question.

After breakfast, I stopped by the library to see what new books are out. I like to look and then find audiobook versions of the books. I would like to read more books, but it is just more convenient to listen to them. As I rounded the last New Fiction shelf, I saw there was a puzzle set up on a table. Someone or multiple someones had already did the outline and it was a couple spots filled in. I couldn’t resist and I sat down to add my two cents. I was just going to do a little bit and leave. Another someone, Ronnie (never met her), decided to join in. We finished the puzzle. Smh. Another moment of human interaction.

I made it back home and had a few items in my truck I needed to throw away. There was some little kids outside kicking around a soccer ball. As I was getting close, the little boy around 5 – 6 years old said, “Do you need some help?” I respectfully declined. His sister kicked the ball back over by the dumpster and he ran over to get it. He says, with the most grown up expression, “Are you sure? ” 😂 So cute!

I say all this to say, connect more with people that make you laugh, take the chance to make connections, and don’t give up on humanity. Today was one of those days that reinforced my faith in humanity. I know, with all that is going on right now, it can be hard to see the good side. And the media sure don’t make it easy. They shove all the negative shit down our throats. It seems as if we are in a never-ending cycle of foolishness, greed, murder, selfishness, racism, etc. I can go on, and on, and on. It is important to have these moments to remind us, there are still good human beings out there. And that when we connect, it makes a difference. Stay hopeful, stay well and whole. Much Love 🧡 💚

I realized that I have been laxed on my self-care. Today, I pushed through the resistance (aka warm bed), and came to one of my happy places, Cullen Park.

Oh, how I needed this.

Don’t be like me. Make time for self-care. Be well and whole. Much Love on this Valentine’s Day 🩷🧡💚

Today, as others may be doing, I am reflecting over this year. It always seems like the year goes by so fast, especially when you hit the halfway mark. This year was a little different due to the amount of bullshit we have had romt endured, but it still went by pretty fast. I don’t know how many of you had to, but I know I had to purposely search for good things. I had to continue to find the humanity and empathy in people. I had to limit the telling and retelling of lies. The excuses, the acceptance, and the encouragement of evil and evildoers. We are now going to cross over into another year. Good, bad, and otherwise. May God be with us.

The central theme of my life in 2025 was love. As I look back, I find so many instances of where I can say, I was loved. From my Golden Girls, encouraging me, uplifting me, challenging me. From my family, always reaching out and pulling me in. I don’t mean to be such a hermit. Thank God they never give up on me. From friends throughout the years who send a text just to make sure I am okay, when I go too long without posting. From random strangers who open the door for me, wheel my luggage into the airport, help me up a curb, put my walker in the backseat, and provide other acts of kindness. Coffee dates and game nights. Lunches and laughs. Phone calls for hours talking about everything and nothing. Book club meetings. Discussing books and music with my nail tech. Doggy hugs and kisses from my old favorites and new friends. I could go on and on.

I know right now it seems like this world is full of hate. You may be feeling discouraged. Me too. Look for love. It is out there, I promise you, even in the smallest of gestures. We may miss them, take them for granted, or they are overshadowed by all the negative we hear day in and day out. It doesn’t negate that these moments are happening and we can find, if we want.

As we countdown to the new year, I want to thank you for being here. Thank you for putting up with my erratic posting, reading my content, and commenting when you feel lead to. I don’t know how to express how much I appreciate you, without crying, and y’all know I don’t do that 😆. So I will keep it simple. Thank you for the love! I feel surrounded and wrapped up in it. You all warm my heart. Stay well and whole. So Much Love 🧡💚