I Finally Let My Hair Down

“Oh she’s a cute little girl…and look at all that hair!” This is a statement I heard throughout my childhood.  Whenever my mother decided to let my big hair hang out (which wasn’t often), old and even young people would flock around me, admiring my mane as if I was the second coming.  After many years of enduring this reaction from others, I came to the conclusion that the world equated long hair with beauty.  I knew at a young age I wanted no parts of this warped way of thinking.  And as soon as I was old enough to whack all of my hair off, I was going for it…..or so I thought.  Little did I know (and I would find out years later), the twisted beliefs regarding hair and beauty from others had seeped into my psyche, and I too had been socialized into thinking that having long hair was one of my most cherished attributes.

Of course as a teenager I wanted to try new hairstyles, and I did.  But no matter what hairstyle I tried, if it involved cutting, I made sure I kept my hair at least at the end of my neck or shoulder length.  I figured if I kept enough hair to make a ponytail, then I would still be considered “beautiful” in the socialized people’s eyes.  I kept this shoulder length hair antic up all the way into my late 20s.  I always wanted to go shorter than the nape of my neck, but never got the guts to do it.  Living vicariously through singer and songwriter Kelis, I would often search pics of her and admire the funky and fun hairdos she sported. Then I got the courage one day to cut my hair kinda past my neck. 

After getting this short bob, I went to my now old job the next day just as happy as can be with my new look.  I strutted into the building throwing my short locks from side to side.  Soon after I settled in my office and prepared to waste billable hours by searching the web, a lady busted through my slightly opened door with a stern look on her face.  My heart dropped because I just knew someone had discovered my internet shopping history on the company’s computer, and I was about to be called out for it.  But no, her face was contorted because of my new haircut!! Do you know this lady sat beside my desk and proceeded to quote some bible verses to me about why I shouldn’t have cut MY hair??????!!! I was outdone!!

The sweet lady with the bible incident was just one of many depth-less reactions to my haircuts over the course of my adult life.  I’ve had an intellectually challenged EX-boyfriend (emphasis on ex thank God) request that I wear my hair down when we went around his friends so that he could show off my length.  I’ve had people actually get angry at me for cutting a few inches off MY hair.  I’ve had people suggest therapeutic interventions when I shaved off the side and back of MY hair (even though MY hair was still long enough to cover up both shaved parts). 

As you have probably gathered from reading, I have been traumatized by other people’s hair expectations.  I’ve had to encounter too much bull when it came to MY hair which in turn made me a little self-conscious whenever I wanted to try a new style.  But guess who’s finally shaking that paralyzing mentality and evolving into an “I don’t give a damn” kind of woman while swaying freely to I Am Not My Hair by India Arie?  You’ve guessed right….me!       

So I finally let my hair down.  I got my hair cut the shortest it’s ever been, and I couldn’t feel more liberated.  My liberation does not come from barely having any hair (although this is super fun I must admit), it comes from being free of anyone’s opinions or projections. I’m finally learning that it’s okay to live my life according to my own standards and not society’s.  This new independent way of living has lifted so many weights off my shoulder. 

I’d like to thank my girl Ashlee Rene for this bomb cut! And to my loved ones who encouraged me to jump out there and try something new……bless you all. 

Beauty and hair are not synonymous.  Beauty and freedom are.    

“Free your mind and your ass will follow”

— Funkadelic 

- Samjah Iman

My Biggest Stress Reliever

The one thing I do that helps me tremendously when I feel anxiety or stress is reminisce.  I begin recalling the past times I've felt defeated and how I overcame each time.  

It seems like whenever a stressful problem arises, I initially began to act brand new like I hadn't made it through anything.  Then I stop myself and say, "Girl did you forget about that time when blah blah blah happened.....and you thought it was the end but things suddenly turned around?"  Reminding myself of how I knocked down hurdles in the past gives me the courage to face any present opposition with confidence. 

The one thing that usually stresses us out in situations is uncertainty.  Not knowing how things will pan out can literally make us crazy.  But we must remember there were times in the past when we didn't know how we were going to overcome a tough situation - but we did.  The next time you find yourself tripping over your current status, think back to the stressful times you made it through, and I guarantee you'll feel a glimmer of hope.

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: Clutch // Vintage Blazer // Yellow Pumps

Don't Watch The Pot + Think Outside The Box Hoodie

I woke up the other morning feeling like "what the hell am I doing?!"  I felt like my hustling efforts were at a stand still; like I was doing a lot of seed planting but nothing was sprouting fast enough.  I was unmotivated.  Then I took a deep breath and told myself that I could either lay here and wallow in my bull, get up and go harder, or get up and go grocery shopping.  I chose the latter.

Sometimes when you've done all you can do, you just have to step back and trust that God will do the rest.  When I agonize over things and try to force them, it seems to push them further from my reach and it takes forever for them to come to fruition.  But when I do my part, let stuff flow freely, then leave it be - things start happening.

My grandmother always says, "a watched pot never boils." And she is right.  Ever threw some water in the pot and stood there to watch it boil....it takes a minute huh?  But when you throw the water in the pot then walk off and come back, it's cooking time.  Let that sit in your brain for a second.

In other news, you all know I love a good statement tee or sweatshirt.  This particular one caught my eye not because of the popping fuchsia color but because of the message.  It represents how I try to live my life daily - outside the box.  Feeling it?  Cop your hoodie here. 

Here's to being unconventional and not watching the pot boil.  

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman    

Photo Credit: shotbyclipz@gmail.com

Stay Nourished

When I'm hungry I must admit, I am not the most pleasant person.  I get weak, I start to shake, and I'm short with whomever is around me.  As soon as I get some food inside of me, I'm back to being the chill Sam that I am.  In the past couple of years or so I've noticed that the symptoms I get when I haven't fed myself physically are the same symptoms I get when I haven't fed myself spiritually and mentally.  If I go days without spending time with myself, helping someone, reading, listening to music, taking a bike ride, or talking to my loved ones - I get irritated easily and my flow is completely thrown off.       

I can't do ANYTHING when I'm deprived of food physically, mentally, and spiritually.  If anyone has been around me when I'm full, they will probably attest to the fact that it's nothing but love and laughter.  I prefer that Sam.  Therefore, my new focus has been on making sure that I am full in all ways, ALWAYS. I want to constantly replenish myself so that I can give dynamically to everyone around me. 

If I have an empty refrigerator, I cannot feed others.  

Stay stocked, stay full, stay nourished.

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

   Outfit Details:  H&M Stripe Blouse (in stores only) // ASOS Red Trousers (sold out) // Vintage Eel Skin Purse // H&M PeaCoat (sold out)

The Other Side Of The Game

I met a young lady who told me she wishes she had my life and that it seems I have it easy doing what I do.  My response to her was, "Girl I make it look easy, because it damn sure ain't." 

Everyone has a backstory to tell - and it ain't always pretty.  You see me posing effortlessly in a picture sporting a fly outfit and you may think "she's got it all."  But what you don't see is the intricate process involved in putting everything together just to be able to take that picture.  Or what you don't know is right before I took those fierce pictures, I probably just got through checking my bank account in hopes that a brand exhibited professionalism and paid an invoice on time only to find out that they hadn't.  You have no idea what is going on behind the scenes because all you see is the finished picture, and all you know is what you've presumed.  

A fun thing I like to do is watch documentaries/interviews or read autobiographies/biographies on celebrities.  It's interesting learning about their history.  Almost all of these wealthy, successful people that I read or watch a documentary/interview about have dealt with some type of traumatic experience that I would not EVER want to encounter.  For instance - I've learned that Oprah was raped when she was younger, comedian/actress Tiffany Haddish was a product of foster care and dealt with an abusive mother and husband, comedian Monique was living out of her car for a while, and soul legend Bobby Womack (google him youngsters) lost one son to a suicide, another infant son to suffocation and his brother was killed by a jealous girlfriend.  Crazy huh?! 

I write all of this to drive my point home about being grateful for your life.  Yes someone else's life can seem so enticing on the surface, but you never know what experiences constitute the person you see or what downfalls may have motivated the art they create.                

“If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else’s, we’d grab ours back.”

— Regina Brett

Before you wish your life was like someone else's, remember that there is ALWAYS the other side of the game.

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: Vintage Leather Trench Coat - My aunt's closet // Vintage Fendi Bag // Nike Tennis

Photo Credit: shotbyclipz@gmail.com

Keep Pushing

Hey everyone!  I'm jumping in your inbox today to give you a little outfit inspiration and to remind you all to keep pushing toward your goals.  I had to tell myself this the other day, and I thought it was only appropriate that I tell you all as well.  Working towards goals gets frustrating at times especially when you haven't seen the fruits of your labor.  You begin to question your abilities and even contemplate throwing in the towel.  I too feel like this at times, but then I'm reminded to take a break, breathe, and then keep pushing. 

I heard a speaker once compare reaching your goals to labor pains and it made so much sense.  He said that when a woman is in her last stages of pregnancy, she feels the most pressure and pain.  That's because she's about to give birth.  This is the same with people who have been planting seeds for their goals for what seems like forever.  The minute the hustle becomes unbearable and the weight of succeeding is too heavy to carry, don't give up.  This may be the last stages of your pregnancy and a beautiful birth could be about to take place.  Just keep pushing.

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details:  Shirt (old) and Jacket (designed by me) // Vintage green leather skirt //  Cream Booties // Suede+Cow Hide Bag (sold out)

Just Be...

As soon as you log into your email each morning or on your social media accounts, you see messages popping up telling you to get money, hustle hard, stay on the grind, hurry up and succeed, etc.  I totally get those messages, am sometimes motivated by those messages, and have even emailed/posted those types of messages in the past as well.  However, I woke up the other morning and said that on that day (and the days to come) I will just be.  I won't be hard on myself, I won't try to overachieve, I won't let the world or internet rush me or tell me what success should look like. I will just simply be present, do the work my way, and let the chips fall where they may.  Sometimes we need to take all of that stress off of our shoulders from the world, get a clear picture in our heads about how success looks to us, and just be.  Be in the moment, be in spirit, be appreciative, be reflective, be content, be patient and everything will come together. Let the pressure of succeeding and the world go sometimes.  This is your own race, no one else's.  Just be.   

Oh and aren't you feeling my vintage peplum blazer? It's 100% silk and was only $22!! I'm in love with it!   Talk to you soon!

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: Jeans // Purse & Blouse // Shoes // Choker    

Photo Credit: shotbyclipz@gmail.com

In My Bag And Cleaning It Out...

I'm currently on a soul cleansing journey which is causing me to reevaluate a few things.  One of my first cleansing steps was to get rid of excess clothing.  This presented a challenge at first but proved to be a key step upon completion because a light material load allows me to concentrate more on things that really matter.  In addition to cleaning out my closet and drawers, I am also in the process of getting rid of social norms that I've adopted in the past to either fit in with a "crowd" or conform to expectations others placed on me.  This purging process alone has me digging deeper than ever.  I refer to it as "clearing my palette." 

The other day I turned on Lauryn Hill's MTV Unplugged No. 2.0 album (the absolute gospel by the way), and she was saying things that spoke to my current state of mind.  She spoke about how an infinite God who created every one different ON PURPOSE did not intend for us to all fit in one box and be alike.  Even though I've listened to the album before, her words hit me like it was my first time hearing them.  I began to think of the things I do that really speak to who I am versus the things I do that are shaped by society's standards.  Let's just say I got some work to do ya'll.  

While I get my whole entire life together over here, check out the fly clutches/fanny packs below by Unikfad.  The Naturally Dope clutch came right on time.  It reminds me that there's no standard I need to fit into - I am naturally dope already.  

Naturally Dope Bag

Black Venom Chain Clutch Bag

Zebra Print Bag

Red Crocodile Fanny Pack

Afrocentric Triangle Crossbody Bag

Remember who you are is who you are supposed to be.  You were not made to dance to the same song everyone else is dancing to whether it be in relationships, careers, creating etc.  You were made to rock to the beat of your own tune. 

Peace and Blessings,

- A Work in Progress

Photo Credit: shotbyclipz@gmail.com

*This post was sponsored by Unikfad.  However, my opinions and thoughts are my own.*

Don't Sweat It - Focus Shift

Have you ever noticed sometimes when you are looking for a particular thing it doesn't show up, but when you stop looking for it or thinking about it, it pops up?  The other day I lost an earring back that I desperately needed for my current favorite earrings.  As soon as it fell in my shag rug, I dropped down to my knees and begin patting every inch of that rug to no avail.  After an extensive search, I concluded that the earring back had gone to earring back heaven.  I let it go and gave it to the earring back gods.  Weeks later I was mindlessly sweeping while listening to some neo-soul music and guess what popped up?? My earring back!!! 

It seems like the universe works when we are not obsessing over everything.  Think about it....don't you get more job offers when you finally get a job?  Or when you're in a relationship, doesn't it seem like everybody and their mother or daddy is trying to date you?  I believe that's because when you aren't looking for something it comes, but when you're constantly obsessing over what you don't have, then that which you don't have expands.

This week, let's all shift our focus on what we do have and try not to concentrate on what we don't have or what we've lost.  I believe once we do this, our desires will pop up when we least expect them to.  Don't sweat it. 

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: Focus Cap // Mesh Top // Boots (similar here) // Vintage Desert Storm Army jacket (uncle's)

Photo Credit: Visual Alchemy

  *This post was sponsored by Fortunate Clothing Company.  All opinions are my own.*

Exaltation

A photographer and I went to what used to be a confederate monument to take the pictures you see above for his "Enthroned" project. When we got to the location which is in the middle of a busy New Orleans intersection, I got nervous.  The stone is as tall as it looks in the pictures above.  Plus I was cognitive of the recent protests and threats surrounding the removal of the statue that once sat on the stone.  The photographer looked at me and asked, "are you down to do this?"  I looked back at him and simply said, "you got the right one today."  However, my inner Sam was saying, "Ummm, no he doesn't!"  He grabbed a chair and ladder out of his car and off to the tall stone we went. 

In an ankle length skirt, I proceeded to climb all the way to the top of the stone.  People began honking, some recording me on their cell phones, some were yelling "go girl!", others were frowning and possibly yelling expletive language.  But here I was, perched on top of the tall stone, drowning out the noise and posing every time the camera flashed. 

While up there sweating with my legs shaking, I thought to myself...."this is exactly how it feels when I'm reaching new heights and growing." - uncomfortable, unsure at times, constant noise, go girl shouts, voyeurism, shady judgment, and sweat.  But I stayed up there and kept shooting, because I knew that with exaltation comes hard work and awkward feelings.  When I finally came down and saw the pictures, I was grateful for the entire experience. 

Welcome any challenge or chance to be exalted in your life.  Rise to the occasion, sit firmly in your position, handle your business, drown out the noise and wait for the beautiful picture to unfold - it will be all worth it.  

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Cross Choker by www.intuition.la. 

Photo Credit: www.visualalchemyphoto.com

New York Fashion Week 2017 - I'm Over It!

Photo Credit: Patrick Melon

Heeeeeyyyyy my people!  I'm back from attending New York Fashion week 2017 (just for the opening weekend), and let me just say - I"M OVER IT!  It's always cool to meet up with my fellow bloggers and get a sneak peek of forthcoming fashion trends, but for me it's always good to leave that craziness behind as well.  Fashion week is super duper fun for sure, but it's also mentally exhausting and crazy competitive.  Everyone is battling for the spotlight or some quick come up, and you can either jump in the mix or get rolled over.  I totally understand the hustle, but this weekend definitely showed me that my intentions are not to have the spotlight or get famous quick - my purpose is to create art, share my experiences, and write words that resonate with people.  Fashion has a place in my heart for sure. It's how I adorn my canvas (my body), but it's not the be all and end all.  It's totally about how I use my style and creative abilities to inspire others.  I asked myself on the plane ride home from New York how I could use my art to propel and exhilarate people.  What did I come up with?  Nothing....yet.  But eventually I will come up with something. Until then, I will continue to follow my heart and let the rest flow. 

Until next time.....

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: Yellow Cardigan (sold out, similar here) //  Neon Yellow Pumps // Knee High Boots // Floral T-shirt Dress // Vintage Japanese Kimono

Free Yourself

I had a guy friend once tell me that his success rate with getting the women he approached was high because his rejection rate was even higher.  He said once he renounced his fright of being rejected, he had no problem going for the gold because the fear of being turned down wasn't holding him captive any longer.  Failure didn't scare him, it actually freed him. 

One of my favorite former players of the NBA was Allen Iverson.  He obviously was an exceptional basketball player, but that was just one of the many reasons I admired him.  He was partly my favorite player because he displayed this dogmatic, no fear kind of attitude on the court.  He would try any move or shoot a shot from anywhere because he wasn't afraid to miss.  The result?  A Hall of Famer.  Same with Babe Ruth, he had the most home run hits during his time because his strikeout record was even higher.

My mother once said to me, "when you're not afraid to fail, it frees you."  And I'm saying to you all today, free yourself.  Jump out there and swing.  If you strikeout 30 times, I guarantee you will hit it at least once.       

“A mistake is evidence of effort.”

— Unknown

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Drive Slow Homie

I was recently approached by someone who wanted to assist me (for a fee of course) in growing my brand at a rapid pace.  I was tempted.  I started thinking, "man I could come up quick and things would really start popping off like I want them to."  Fast success seemed enticing at the moment; however, something about the proposition didn't sit right with me.  So I obeyed my intuition and took a few days to ponder.  During those days, I decided to do my weekly pampering which consists of washing my hair, doing my nails, a facial, etc.  While engaging in this routine, I usually turn on some music and vibe out.  This time I turned on some Kanye West b.k. (before Kim), and when I hit his name one of my old jams Drive Slow came blasting through my speakers.  I immediately went into concert mode and began rapping to the mirror.  

After my performance, I started thinking as I went back to combing my hair.  Kanye b.k. was right.  What's the rush?  I thought about Style & Energy and how it took me a while to birth it.  It may not be the biggest blog out there yet, and I'm totally fine with that because it's authentic.  It's a byproduct of hard work, consistency, trial and error.  And in my opinion success, much like your favorite dish, just taste better when it's been marinating for some time.  The flavor is more distinct.   

Always remember that your race is just that - YOUR RACE.  Do everything at a pace that makes you comfortable.  When you start rushing because you are influenced by how fast other people are moving, that's when you began making unauthentic moves that aren't aligned with your passion.  Remember the story of The tortoise and The Hare?  The Hare just knew he was going to win the race because he was faster than the Tortoise.  So the Hare took the competition lightly and even boastfully rested during the race because he was so far ahead.  But while the Hare was sleeping, the Tortoise was working.  The Hare ended up resting a little too long, which resulted in a victory for the Tortoise.  From then on, the Hare told himself-  "Don't brag about your lightning pace, for Slow and Steady won the race!"

“The race is not always to the swift … but to those who keep running.”
”

— Unknown

Drive slow homies....

- Samjah Iman

Photo Credit: keithshoots.com

The Top Is Perfect, I'm Not...

I am not perfect.  I am not perfect.  I am not perfect.  I have to repeat this statement almost daily to myself because I'm currently in the process of renouncing my perfectionist mindset that I have suffered from for years.  I used to expect the very best from myself and when I didn't achieve what I thought I should in the past, I was super hard on myself.  These days I'm learning to just flow.  Yes I still give 100% in anything I do, but now days I allow myself to be just what I am - a human.  If I don't hit the mark, say the right thing, or make the right moves - I say F%^$ it and move the hell on. It is what it is.   

Now about the perfect top in these pictures.  Isn't it just gorgeous?!  I am obsessed with of-the-shoulder tops these days and colorful prints and this one definitely fits my style aesthetic.  I paired my new favorite top with a pair of vintage Ralph Lauren jeans I got from my daddy's closet (I cut them myself), my red Steve Madden heels, and a vintage leather purse (links provided below).  

Before I sign off, I want to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who takes time out of their busy schedules to read my posts.  It means the world to me, and If I am impacting someone's life through my style and words then I am doing my job.  Thank you all! 

On another note,  I'm headed to Denver this week to see my beautiful family and wish my lovely grandmother a happy 93rd birthday!!!  I will try to give you guys one more post before I leave, if I don't then oh well.....I'm Not Perfect (lol).  Have a good one....SMILE!    

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details:  Ralph Lauren Jeans //  Aafin Off-the-Shoulder Top // Tierney Heels // Purse

Just Do You

The media has a clever way of persuading us to be like someone else other than ourselves.  When you turn on your television, there is someone telling you to grow longer hair like the models or drive a certain car that most celebrities drive.  When you scroll on social media someone is bragging about their vacation in Bali causing you to think that your vacation to Destin, Florida was below average.  The concept of "not being or not having enough" is everywhere.  You need to be bigger, skinnier, wear more elaborate clothes, eat this type of food, rent a private jet, work for a Fortune 500 company, start 20 businesses, grind all day, etc.  All of this madness will drive you absolutely crazy if you let it.  That's why it's important to know who you really are and what motivates you.               

It's okay to not want to aspire to be what society tells us we should be.  In my opinion living a good life is not about how much material wealth you can gain, it's about finding YOUR purpose and carrying it out.   

Let's all take some time this week and dig deep into our souls to discover what really moves us.  Let's define what success looks like to us and live up to it.  This is our life, no one else should be able to dictate how it unfolds.  JUST DO YOU!

“You’re only effective when you’re authentic. ”

— Bishop TD Jakes

Outfit Details: Pants (Similar) // Reversible Top // Shoes // Purse

Photo Credit: shotbyclipz@gmail.com

P.S. - Happy Birthday to the coolest, best father ever!!! Happy Birthday Daddy!

Rest, Child...

I read somewhere that resting is one of the most spiritual things we can do.  I totally agree with this proverb, but lately I haven't been practicing it.  Since I resigned from my job, it's been non-stop.  I've been hustling for the other website I work for, meeting new people, hanging out into the wee hours of the night then waking up at 6:50 a.m. to do it all over again.  I'm trying to respond to everyone's call, text message and email, be the perfect friend, listen and give the most profound advice, keep my crib clean, grow my blog, exercise, eat right, groom myself, and nurture my creative juices - but I haven't had time to stop and just breathe.  My body is nagging me for rest, and my spirit craves solitude.  It's important that I listen to these two elements and take heed because my creativity depends on my body and spirit being balanced.  

“When you’re in spirit, you’re inspired. ”

— Unknown

It's hard for me not to lend my energy to others, but I'm learning that lending all of my energy to others leaves me drained.  I have to protect my energy and make sure Sam is 100% so that I can give my happiest, most alert self to my loved ones.  I want to be the best blogger, the best friend, the best daughter/granddaughter, the best companion, the best sister, the best auntie, the best niece, etc.  And the only way I can achieve this is by rest and seclusion every now and then.  Sometimes I get irritated when people continue to ask me for things and request my presence or ear regarding their circumstances like they should know and understand that I'm worn out.  However, I'm learning that most people are only concerned with their wants/needs, and it's not them that I'm irritated with - it's me.  I'm the one who needs to refrain from being a people-pleaser and learn how to say no or just not answer the call.

We can't be the best versions of ourselves and keep going if we don't recharge our batteries.  So here's to a weekend of protecting our energy, resting, saying no when we feel like it, and doing whatever the hell makes us happy.  Cheers!

Photos - bylauraturner.com. 

Outfit Details: Vintage Floral Dress

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman  

Essence Festival 2017 Street Style

Essence Festival has come and gone and I took full advantage of it! I got to see some great performers, I covered some cool events, and met some creative individuals.  In addition to attending all the events, I also hit the streets to capture some style.  Check out what my camera caught below.  Enjoy and be inspired!  

I got a chance to meet and take a picture of Solange in her store!! She's definitely a dope individual!

Have a wonderful week!  Talk to you all soon!

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

With A Child's Heart

When I got my first apartment sans roommates, my friend and godson (who was about 3 years old at the time) came to visit me.  They slept on an air mattress in my living room because I didn't have all the necessary decor/furniture to fill my new space.  I had one couch, a small table, some kitchen equipment, and no curtains.  It didn't bother me that I only had enough furniture for a college dorm room, but what did irk me was that I had no way of blocking the glaring sun in the morning.  Although I am a person who loves natural light, I am also a person who likes to sleep late from time to time and having no curtains prevented this daily.  When my friend came to visit, I apologized profusely for not having curtains because I knew her morning rest would be cut short as soon as the sun peeked its head over the horizon.

When the inevitable morning came, as usual, I rose with the sun.  While furiously pulling the cover over my eyes to block the harsh rays, I heard a small eager voice yell - "Mommy, somebody turned the light on outside!"  I couldn't contain the huge smile that swept across my face.  That was about 11 years ago, and I have never forgotten that profound observation made by my godson.  While I was dreading the morning because I had no curtains to block its contents, my godson had a different perspective.  From that day on, I made peace with my no-curtain situation because I allowed myself to view it as my godson had.  The sun coming up didn't mean less sleep, it simply meant somebody (God) had turned the light on outside.  

Every now and then I feel that it's best to take on some of life's matters with a child's heart.  Children are uninhibited, imaginative, and carefree.  They view the world through the most simplistic, yet philosophical lens.  They don't care what anyone thinks of them as they dance their little hearts out in public.  They don't limit their thinking - they imagine themselves being anything they want to be in this world.  They see and appreciate the beauty in everything around them.  This, my friends, is how adults should handle life as well. 

Let's get back to taking on this world with a child's heart.  Let's dance like no one is watching, use our wildest imaginations, and be grateful when God turns the light on outside.  

Have an awesome weekend love bugs!  Talk to you soon!

- Samjah Iman              

Experiences over Things

Lately I've been indulging in experiences rather than material things.  I want to concentrate more on experiencing things that are good for my soul and spirit.  Material possessions come and go.  Experiences stay in the heart forever.        

These days I want to ride my bike more.  Pick fresh flowers for my place weekly.  Take up new hobbies that exercise my mind.  Read good books on my porch.  Try exotic restaurants.  Watch people who are enjoying life.  Go to more concerts.  I want to be more present, and I'm working towards that each and everyday.         

A lot of people equate money/status with success and happiness.  I used to be one of those people.  However, I quickly realized that I can't account for all the money I have made in the past.  But what I can tell you about is the time my mother and I laughed uncontrollably in the bed one night or about a good conversation my father and I had while riding in his pickup truck - or about how my friend and I sat for hours on the beach in silence just listening to the water - or about how a certain song I hear makes me feel - or about some delectable fish tacos I tasted in this swanky, quaint little spot one weekend. 

Yes we do need money to make sure some of our needs are met, but life shouldn't be just about making money.  It should be about making experiences.  That is what will last.     

“The happiest people don’t have the best of everything. They make the best of everything they have. ”

— Unknown

Create some memorable experiences this week, no matter how big or small.  It will be good for your soul. 

- Samjah Iman

Jumper available, here. 

Photography by www.kwesi.co

Collarbone Love

Some women really love showing off their legs, others love showing their midriffs, chest, backsides, or even front private areas (if they are on an Amber Rose journey lol).  While I take part in showcasing some of those physical attributes as well, my favorite thing to display is actually my collarbone lol.  Truthfully!  I think visible collarbones and elongated necks are very attractive...maybe it's the Nefertiti in me - who knows?!  But what better way to show your neck and collarbone than by rocking an off-the-shoulder top?  Check out the cutest summer top ever below from Styledbyrish.com.     

This top was definitely a delight to wear.  The colors stood out, and it flowed so pleasantly with my jean shorts and nude heels.  I put it on during the beginning of the day and didn't want to take it off!  During the evening, I switched up my vibe and threw some jeans and Chuck Taylors on with the top.  I must say, it transitioned to a casual look very well.   

If you haven't gotten down with the off-the-shoulder trend then what are you waiting on??  It's seriously one of the most sexiest trends this year!  Click here to purchase your own. 

Thank you all for supporting my blog!  I truly appreciate it more than you know.  Now - let's make the rest of this week great my people.  I'll get at you all super soon!

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman