Trice’s 2021 Moments and Memories
We finally came to the end of 2021. Overall, the year was pretty impressive for me, considering a few things that just wouldn't go away. Actually, just one thing… Covid-19 and all of its homies. Delta. Omicron. They just keep showing up in a big way.
Despite the pandemic, here is my list of the 12 memorable moments of 2021:
#FrenchieMom
It's still kind of hard to process what I've done, but I'm officially a dog mom. We welcomed our two French Bulldogs to the family this year; Thai and Koda. They've been a lot of work, but that's expected when they are still puppies, and we're still adjusting.
French Bulldogs (Frenchies); Thai (left) & Koda (right)
The Houston Freeze
Talking about being blindsided. For starters, I never imagined that we would have 13° temps in Houston. But to be without power, heat, or running water really changed the tone for the beginning of the year. A lot was lost during this event… food, pets and even lives.
50% Empty-Nesters
So, my oldest daughter, Shyla, funded and moved into her own apartment. I knew it would eventually happen, considering that she is very independent and likes her own space. It’s been so rewarding to see her make adult moves, but it's also a little bittersweet. I miss her being home to babysit her little brother, washing the dishes or vacuuming the carpet. It was like having my own personal assistant at times.
New Hobby… Again
One interesting fact about me is that I LOVE art! All kinds of art. My father is an artist, so I think my siblings and I get it honestly. But art also calms me in a way that a human being can't. The thing is, I'm constantly switching up. So in 2021, I started making resin coasters that are just so beautiful and unique. The plus is that it's also been very lucrative. I think I may stick with this one for a while. You can take a look at my collection of coasters by visiting my online store.
Resin coasters with one of my favorite designs…
Self Love
Took My First & Last Face to Face Class for Undergrad
I’ve began taking classes at Texas Southern University since the fall of 2020… always online. My daily life and schedule are complicated, so it was a massive commitment to take an in-person class on Monday and Wednesday evenings. And did I mention that it was a 45-mile commute one way during rush hour traffic? It will all pay off in May 2022.
Network and Relationship Goals
I stepped out more than I would have pre-pandemic and built relationships with industry professionals who could add value to my content creation and influencing goals. There are just so many talented people here in Houston, men and women. I even featured some of the ladies that inspired me in a blog post earlier in the year. Check it out here!
Friends & Family Staycation
I started a new tradition with some friends who are more like sisters, and I kept the tradition going with the beautiful women of my family. A weekend staycation. Both weekends were packed with exciting agendas. Massages, dance lessons, shopping, fine dining, luxurious hotel accommodations, and late nights filled with laughter.
Top: Mother/Daughter Weekend with my mom, aunts and cousins
Bottom: Mommy Getaway with my sweet friends/sisters
Insecure… Gone Forever?
After 5 seasons, one of my favorite shows is gone forever. I'm a big fan of Issa Rae. I've read her book. I've learned from her on the Masterclass app. She was the inspiration behind the name of my blog. I did say I was a fan, right? The show was a reality to many. It was giving realistic depictions of friendships, relationships, career choices, mental health, and, most importantly, black culture. Check it out on HBO.
On the Road Again
It kinda feels like I was making up for lost time since I hadn't traveled since June 2019. But my family and I did some traveling this past year. Denver. New Orleans. Las Vegas. Chicago. Literally all in six weeks. It just felt great to be able to explore and travel again.
I Still Do… 10 years later
Lloyd and I celebrated a decade of marriage in 2021! It's crazy because we literally didn't have a long dating/engagement period. We just knew that we loved each other, and we still do! We celebrated by going back to the city we visited for our honeymoon… Las Vegas! We even tried to recreate some of our pics. Time has changed cause that gondola ride cost four times more than it did ten years ago. And don't we look more... mature?
The Venetian Resort in Las Vegas; 2011 vs. 2021
1st Blog Anniversary
Honestly… My blogging journey has been a lot of work, but it's also worth it! The encouragement that I've received has given me all the momentum I need to keep going. Thanks for rocking with me!
Lamentations 3:22-23
IYKYK. Ok, Trice, translate. If you know you know… the significance of this scripture. God has been gracious to me, to my household, my family. Yes, there were some losses, but the gains were just as significant. There were moments when we weren't feeling our best, but we remained healthy. God was again faithful to us because we are faithful to him.
Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
-Lamentations 3:22-23 (NIV)
As you can see, 2021 was a great year. I have no complaints. But for 2022 I am excited about going higher in so many areas of my life. Whether it’s my relationship with God, my marriage, motherhood, my educational goals, quality time with the people I love or my personal desires to brand “Put Your Dukes Up”, I am ready to take it on.
Happy New Year!!
