#goodvibesonlyix

WEDDING DAY BRIDAL ESSENTIALS

Last weekend - I had the pleasure of celebrating the sweetest girl / BRIDE in the world! Just two weeks away from becoming Mrs. Jackson, it was only right to party it up, have a little of uncensored fun and make memories we chose to keep to ourselves! Needless to say I arrived at my doorstep at 530AM . . (cricket sounds queued) . . Hahaa! I had such a great time, sending a special thank you to all you classy ladies that made her night all that it was. 

When thinking of ideas for a nice / creative bachelorette gift (S/N : I always come bearing gifts or florals, maybe even both) I thought to myself – what did I need on my Wedding Day? I remember when I arrived to the venue, I wish I had a little pouch with all of my all essentials for easy access. Having all I needed to refresh and recharge in one place rather than having to dig through totes and piles of mess to find a hair brush! That’s what sparked putting together - Wedding Day Bridal Essentials, to help out my friend on her big day!

Below I have listed what I put in the Bride – To – Be’s pouch, I also included a list of other items I would have incorporated, if I had the time / room in my pouch. All you bridesmaids, maids of honor, matrons of honors and best friends other there – bookmark this post to show your Bride you got her back – before, during and after the Wedding. She’ll be praising you later!

MRS. JACKSON’S WEDDING DAY BRIDAL ESSENTIALS:  

ADVIL

GUM

TISSUES

LOTION

FACIAL MASK

WET WIPES

HAND SANITIZER

FUTURE MRS HEADBAND

WEDDING NIGHT LINGERIE (#2 RULE OF MARRIAGE: ALWAYS KEEP IT SPICY)

WAVY N’ COOK’D TREAT

ADDITIONAL ITEMS:

DISPOSABLE CAMERA

BOBBY PINS

SAFETY PINS

HAIR TIES

TUMS

NIP OF JACK

FLIP FLOPS

EAR-PODS

PHONE CHARGER

SEWING KIT

NAIL CARE SET

HAIR BRUSH

HAIR COMB

HAIR SPRAY

DRY SHAMPOO

NOTEPAD PEN / MARKER

WEDDING DAY CHECKLIST

A PERSONAL NOTE FOR THE BRIDE TO READ ON WEDDING DAY

SOMETHING THAT MONEY CAN’T BUY: A FRIEND’S TOTAL SUPPORT – TO REMIND THE BRIDE IT’S HER DAY! ALL SHE HAS TO DO IS ENJOY AND BE HAPPY!

As always thank you for being here. I know it’s been a while, I’ve been coming down off my Wedding high. Life feels so good right now. Love is love, always.

Congrats to Shahnaz and Meka - you guys have less than a week to go! You both are beautiful from the inside - out. It’s only right that you spend a lifetime together!

Til next time lovies,

THE PROPOSAL

On December 26th 2015, my life was changed in the best way possible. The person I’ve loved since I was 19 years old asked to spend the rest of his life with me. After over 10 years together, the stars aligned and everything felt so right in that moment. Everything that was off in my life that they time simply faded away. His love is all I saw. So here is it is my proposal story.

The day started like another day after Christmas, late brunch and rolling around in and out of sleep with my guy. The house wraps it’s smells around you, the smell of pancakes and a homemade meal brewing. The best memories are made around the Holidays. One thing that was different this Christmas was Anthony had asked me if I wanted “to go to The Wrentham Outlets for some shopping?” I looked at him like he had 5 heads! “Wrentham Outlets would be on level crazy Anthony.” Considering the day and time he wanted to go. But, there was no talking him out of going. “Fineeee” I said with much dread in my voice. All I wanted to do was lay in bed and get enjoy his mother’s lasagna, so much for that. In addition to him wanting to go to Wrentham Outlets, Anthony’s family was planning an After the Holidays dinner party. I wanted to be to help his mother with any last minute prep Anthony was not hearing that. Now, that I think of it I kept asking his mother “Do you want me to make my Buffalo Chicken Dip?” The answer was no, now that was strange. No one ever passed up on my dip. I just figured she just wanted more of a traditional spread with turkey and cranberry sauce. Oh I was so wrong!

So, Anthony and I got dressed then made our way to The Wrentham Outlets. It took us about 15 minutes to find a parking spot. Every store was jammed packed with people making returns and spending their Christmas cash. As we walked around aimlessly going from store to store, I’m thinking, he didn’t really want to come here. He doesn’t even want anything! It was then I began to get text messages from my friends asking me “Hey, what are you up? “ Which was strange when I just saw or spoke to most of them earlier in the day. Something odd was going on and I just couldn’t put my finger on it. I continued to go along with the flow. It worked out for me I got some fancy chocolates, some of my favorite candles and got to spend quality time with my guy.

Things got really strange when he suggested we go to the Mall. “The Mall?” I said. “Yeah, I just want to see what new sneakers came out this week.” He said. “Okkk.” with some worry in my voice, knowing the dinner would be starting soon. We turn into the entrance of the Mall when Anthony receives a call, he immediately rushes the caller off the phone. He says “We need to head back to my mother’s house, she says they’re waiting for us to eat.” I turn to Anthony, “What is going on here?” He smiles.

We arrive at his mother’s house it is abnormally quiet and there are a few of his relatives outside, who see us and then runs inside. STRAANNGGGGE! My heart begins to race, what is going on? It can’t be happening. No, my mother would have cracked and told me. Why is her car here? Why is my friend Emily’s car here? I don’t even remember how I made it to the door. I don’t remember hearing everyone scream surprise. I do remember the look on my mother’s face of pure joy and love. I do remember Anthony’s voice so clearly asking, “Will you marry me?” I didn’t say anything the butterflies I felt flew out of me in form of tears that I’ve yet to experience. My body felt a sensation that it’s never felt before – it was unquestionable love, honest-to-goodness love, the real stuff. Anthony placed the most beautiful ring on my finger, so me, so simple, so deep.

The room was filled with all our loved ones. It was beautiful. Complete with all our favorite dishes, champagne and an amazing cake. I couldn’t be happier with my engagement surprise party. After hearing about how this came about and Anthony asking my mother for my hand in marriage, I was blown away with all the efforts that were put into making this night so special for me. I’ve never had something like this done for me, I hate being the center of attention, I’d much rather be in having fun amongst the crowd. However, in an event like this it was about us both and having Anthony by my side it didn’t feel so alone. My soul is at ease.

So many laughs, stories, speeches and hugs with kisses lasted the whole night. At the end of the night, when it was just Anthony and I toasted “Cheers to an unexpected surprise from an unexpected host with the perfect ending. I love you.” 

Happy Birthday Aubrey x 

‘Nice For What’ Drake, 2018

Location : Warehouse XI

Model : Beltrani86 (via Instagram)

x

Seriously, I can’t believe we are already in July! It feels like Anthony and I just got married – just starting to plan our honeymoon over pizza, french-fries and red wine. Now, we are here days away from Costa Rica! With ‘Everything is Love’ on repeat, I couldn’t be more excited to be jumping on plane celebrating black love. Oh before I forget as a side note, Love is ____ on OWN has been my jam, very real and equally as hot (thanks to Will Catlett, shhh don’t tell my Mr.)

I wanted to check-in with my babes and give you a mid-year update, simply letting you know what’s going on with me. Twenty – eighteen started off with a BANG, with our wedding! Since then it’s been nothing but comfort foods, funny movies, quality time and wine, oh so much wine. Meanwhile, I put my creative work on the back burner, solely to be totally present with my love and handle martial business.

Even so I have been keeping my blog notepad in my bag to write down ideas / content when thinking of  / missing GOODVIBESONLYIX. With that said I’m dedicating this post to what’s been going on in my world and what I’m working on for the reminder of the year – better yet let me slow it down this is my Summer of Self-Care.  

MAIN FOCUS :  

-Understanding marriage -Practicing healthy self – awareness   -Going in depth with my spirituality -Continuing my soul-searching journey -Embracing my full-body curves -Staying connected to my inner self -Monitoring my finances more closely -Working smarter not harder  -Refocusing on my short-term / long-term goals -Censoring the energy that I allow within and around me -Working on the GOODVIBESONLYIX website -Re-designing / decorating my new apartment -Trusting my life’s process, while working towards my purpose -Striving to be a better wife, daughter, sister, god-mommy and friend -Diving into my overall health – physically and mentally -Eating and exercising well – not to look good but to live a long and happy life

Yes, that was a long list however I feel these intentions intertwine with one another making them all ‘do-able’. I think we all strive to be the best version of ourselves. Although, sometimes we get sidetracked and things don’t go as planned – we can always create a fresh start. The universe works in mysterious ways and we have to go through different stages and face unforeseen transitions – good and bad, to finally find where we settle and find inner-peace.  Life is an amazing journey – it’s only good as you make it. With that said I’m on my way to Costa Rica for our honeymoon – to completely unwind, unplug and relax.

Two – thousand – eighteen, thank you for being so sweet to me thus far. May we finish on a high note with love, hope, wisdom and guidance from my savior.

Life is good.

BTW: How is your year / summer going? Do you have any goals / objectives you are working on?

Breaking Up With The Winter Blues

Around this time of the year more so in the colder climates, where the temperatures plummet and the sun sets before happy hour – you can catch a serious case of the Winter Blues. You don’t want to go to work because of the bone-chilling cold and being surrounded by mountains of snow piles. You don’t want to hang out with friends because; you don’t want to wear an astronaut to the bar. Then there is sunlight; you never realized how good those warm kisses throughout the day by Mother Nature felt. I feel your pain love. But, don’t fear I have put together some blues-kicking hacks that will surely save you from the dread. So, let’s sit down and chat – be sure to grab a cup of tea, which will lead us to my first hack!

1.Tea – All tea, any tea – as long as it makes you feel joyfully warm from the inside out. It’s proven that many teas carry healing and calming properties, which will help get you out of the blues. A couple of my favorite teas are: Traditional Medicinal’s Echinacea Plus, which promotes immune function. I often drink this tea when I’m coming down with a cold. Another one of my favorites is by the brand Yogi called Sweet Tangerine - Positive Energy, this tea taste is so good! This tea supports elevated mood and energy levels; I usually steep a bag when I need a pick me up. I’m a firm believer there is soul-food (s) meaning good for the soul – aid in our well-being. Tea is high on my list.

2.Gym – Physical activity is known to boost energy and confidence levels. So, why not meet up with a workout buddy and squat like no other or run like your Bolt? Preparing that summer bod to be lean and healthy. I’m sure with Cardi B blasting through your ear buds you will be motivated and making money moves on the treadmill – just be sure to be careful, LOL!

S/N : For an expert fitness opinion along with great reads paired with fitness challenges, go check one of my favorite blogs at www.meridethmorgan.com! Merideth’s content and visuals are amazing, such an inspiration! 

3.Wine-Down Night – Bring that bottle of Merlot over to the friend’s house with the coziest decor. Enjoy a Sex In The City marathon or jam out a girl’s night playlist! Leave the astronaut suit at home darling!

4.Pamper Session – Whether at your local spa or in the comfort of your own home. Treat your achy body from all that shoveling and holiday road rage with a nice dimly light mineral bath or essential oil drenched massage. Nothing feels better – trust me!

5.Read – Whether it’s something inspirational or a thriller that will have you grinding your teeth. Stimulate your mind and take a step away from reality and dive into your own world of your favorite novel or treat yourself to something new!

6.Church – And let the church say – Amen. Praying always soothes my soul as well as hearing an inspirational message to pick me up out a funk. My uncle who is a Pastor, always leaves my soul at peace with uplifting lessons and stories that makes want to be better and continue to worship the most high.  

7.Yoga / Mediation Class – The beauty of stillness, calmness and stretching the mind, body and soul with tranquil sounds and smells. Doesn’t that sound so Zen? Groupon offers can put you front and center, just find a deal near you!

8.YouTube – Get lost in the world of vlogs and funny clips! I was introduced to YouTube a couple of years ago and now I don’t know how I survived without it. From DIY tutorials, cooking demonstrations to watching day-to-day vlogs from my favorite YouTubers, you could get lost in this joyous world. Honestly, I prefer it to traditional television – hands down. Stay tuned – I plan to launch my own YouTube channel this summer!

Just to name a few of my faves :

- Alex and Michael

- Jamie and Nikki

- Ellen Fisher

- Hot For Food

- Kavari Vlogs

- RemiLife

- Kalyn Nicholson

- ASAP Science

9.Learn a new skill – Floral design, became a hobby of mine during a nice long blizzard. I even made it a little side hustle. This year I’ve been working on editing photos and videos! It’s been amazing to see all the editing tools and how to create legit magic. Keeping your mind busy is the best thing to do when it begins to get dark at 4:30PM.

10.Take care of yourself – Sleep, eat well, pray, laugh and be grateful. Write out a list on what you are grateful for. Plan a trip to a place you’ve wanted to visit. Write a letter to an older family member who could use a friendly hello or a comforting message. Do good and you certainly will feel good!

And there you go – my Winter Blue Life Hacks! I would love to hear from you and what gets you out of the misery of the cold chill. You can comment down below or you can find me on Instagram and Facebook under GOODVIBESONLYIX, let’s connect.

DIY CHRISTMAS GIFTS 

PEPPERMINT BEARD BUTTER 

INGREDIENTS: JAMAICAN BLACK CASTOR OIL / COCONUT OIL / OLIVE OIL / SHEA BUTTER / PEPPERMINT ESSENTIAL OIL / VITAMIN E OIL 

PREP: REFRIGERATE FOR 24 HRS 

CONTAINER: MASON JAR 

HOW TO: COMBINE ALL INGREDIENTS TOGETHER IN CONTAINER. MICROWAVE FOR 30 SECS. MIX WELL THEN REFRIGERATE FOR 24 HOURS. THERE YOU HAVE IT! 

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THE MERRY CO-WORKER 

INCLUDES: BAILEY’S NIP / SCRATCH TICKET / MINI CANDY CANE 

WHO WOULDN’T BE MERRY WHEN YOU COULD ADD A BIT OF BAILEY’S TO YOUR MORNING COFFEE OR HOT COCA WITH A HINT OF PEPPERMINT WITH YOUR CANDY CANE STIR? SKIP THE STARBUCKS LINE WITH THIS BIT!

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WHY I LOVE YOU 

BRING IT BACK WITH A SIMPLE CHRISTMAS CARD. WRITE A LIST OF WHY YOU LOVE AND APPRECIATE A SPECIAL SOMEONE. THIS SIMPLE ACT OF LOVE / KINDNESS BRINGS OUT THE TRUE MEANING OF CHRISTMAS. 

STAY TUNED FOR MORE XMAS POSTS THIS WEEK!