On Mammograms, Press Ons, and New Seasons

October briskly came in with sweet promises of all things pumpkin, new goals, and a somewhat slower pace. While scrolling on Instagram this morning I saw my favorite influencers, one by one, post their Fall outfits, October goals, and freshly baked content. It’s a new season, indeed. You can feel it in the air. 

I can also feel it in all the newness turning 40 has brought along. My Chart reminded me it’s time for my mammogram and I keep forgetting to reschedule my eye appointment with LensCrafters - no matter how many times they remind me. I vowed to not spend a dime on frivolous purchases this month (I’m so sorry Sephora). However, I did splurge on a new half gallon Stainless steel water bottle and echinacea vitamins with goldenseal. This is 40.

At the end of August I traveled to Pittsburgh to do research for the August Wilson Society. I arrived a day early in order to pray. While in the hotel room I asked the Lord to change me. I refused to return back to Chicago the same woman I’d been. I can’t pinpoint what happened or when it happened, but somewhere along the road, my faith shrinked. I believed, but just like Jesus, I had unbelief. God was incredibly kind to answer my prayer. I feel myself evolving. I have laser focus. I’ve mapped out where I’m going and I’m ready to do the work to get there. These days it’s all about being a loving and supportive spouse, a present mom, the favorite cousin, and a thriving creative entrepreneur. I’m ready to embrace the path God has set before me. 

I lived at the theatre in September, and October will be no different. Black Theatre Chicago shared the productions that’s opening this month and I can’t wait to see these shows. Oh, we have a code for Milo Imagines the World at Chicago Children’s Theatre. It’s buy one get one free for any Saturday show at 9:30 a.m. The code is MILOBTC. I’m especially excited to check out Ngozi Anyanwu’s “Leroy & Lucy” at Steppenwolf this month. I’ve been following Ngozi’s career for a few years now and have been inspired by her. 

Cousin! How are you? I turned in my research earlier today, which means, moving forward I’ll be posting here twice a week. I love our community and what we’re building. Thanks for joining me for this beautiful ride.

Your Favorite Cousin,

Nikki

p.s. Will you consider becoming a paid patron for $10/month? It will help me reach goals for more readings and events next year.

p.p.s. I recently tried press ons and I’m excited to announce that I will never go back to the shop for a $60 no chip manicure again! My press ons lasted about 12 days and were so pretty. I’m excited for the set I plan to glue on tomorrow. Ain’t nobody told me nothing!