Before I begin, I’d like to recognize and celebrate my mom! Thank you for your unconditional love and support. You have the most selfless heart and sweetest spirit. You’re the strongest, most beautiful and resilient woman I know. Thank you for raising me to be a strong, independent woman just like you. You’ve been right by my side through every high and every low. I am because you are. I love you! Happy Mother’s Day! 💜

I just finished reading Joel Osteen’s book entitled “Blessed in the Darkness”. Due to the current COVID-19 crisis, I thought it would be fitting to title this blog post “Blessed in the Darkness” as well. The current global pandemic can be considered a season of “darkness”. In the book, Joel tells us to be encouraged during our season of darkness. Instead of saying we are buried by our current circumstances, we instead need to shift our perspective to one of expectancy. What are you expecting God for? Are you willing to submit fully and trust His will for your life? Instead of being buried, we’re being planted. Planted for greater, restoration, increase and healing. God has personally brought me through some unspeakable obstacles. I am so grateful for His continuous grace, mercy and favor. We are victors, not victims! We are warriors and more than conquerors in Christ. He has anchored us with a spirit of hope. We don’t have to worry about our current situation, we must stay steadfast on the future that God has promised. Greater is coming! Everything we need to fulfill our destiny is already within us. Instead of having worry, doubt or anxiety about the future, shift your mindset: “This trouble is not going to stop me; it’s going to transport me”. This pain is temporary, God is birthing something new. Get ready for new levels! Thank God for what He is getting ready to do. Take a leap of faith! Expect favor and unexplainable blessings!

This week has been particularly arduous due to the killing of another innocent unarmed Black man who was simply going for a morning jog. It is exhausting to live in a world with such hatred, bigotry and racism. Ahmaud Arbery would have been 26 years old on Friday. I walked 2.23 miles in his honor. Dear Black Men: I respect you. I support you. I value you. I love you. Praying for justice and peace. Rest in Power, King. ✊🏽✊🏾✊🏿🖤

“There is no force equal to a woman determined to rise.” – W.E.B. Dubois

I have some EXCITING news to share! I have been admitted to the Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) Higher Education and Student Affairs program at THE Ohio State University! This has been a lifelong goal of mine and I am rather to begin this new journey! Dr. Stigger is coming soon!

May is Mental Health Month. What are you doing to practice self care? Here are a few of my favorite self care regimens:

• Music! Shout out to Jill Scott and Erykah Badu for the best vibe session yesterday!

• Aromatherapy! Bath and body works is my go to!

• Exercise! Walking helps clear my mind and ease my stress!

• Traveling! Due to the stay at home order I’ve had to improvise with this one a bit. I am currently creating a travel scrapbook of my international travels. My goal is to travel to all 7 continents, so far I’ve made it to 3!

• Photography! Being behind the camera brings me so much joy!

It’s important read positive affirmations in order to meditate and manifest the life of your dreams. I challenge you to repeat these words of encouragement on a daily basis and watch how your life changes!

1. I embrace success. The words “I can’t” are not in my vocabulary. I refuse to believe my own excuses. I am unstoppable!

2. I choose to radiate love, joy & gratitude today. I know life is too short to dwell on negativity. I walk in the light!

3. I release my attachment to everything that no longer serves me. I refuse to let anything or anyone hold me back!

4. I choose to take responsibility for my own happiness. I will not let anyone “make” me angry today. I am in control!

5. I am committed to the possibility of my own success. I take action on my goals now so I can have the lifestyle I want.

6. I honor my need to rest and recharge. I am committed to finding at least one hour of “me” time today!

7. I am here for a reason. That reason does not include gossip & negativity. I am committed to being a positive influence!

8. I release all negativity from my life. I choose to focus on being positive and productive!

9. I am thankful for this beautiful day and the infinite possibility it holds. I know something good is going to happen!

10. Regardless of the situations which confront me, I know that I am blessed. I receive the blessing from every lesson!

I recently got a new tattoo:

It means God is greater than our highs and lows. This is a constant reminder that He is fighting our battles, we need only to be still. God is working all things together for our good! Stay strong and be encouraged!

Until next time, Bry Inspired!

December 31, 2019. Last day in this decade.

Thank God we made it! 🙌🏾 What an adventure… Looking forward to seeing what exciting things the “roaring 20’s” has in store!

I am at the airport right now, which is surprisingly empty, and I am just reflecting on what an eventful year it has been…

Top 3 lessons I’ve learned this year:

• Use roadblocks as stepping stones

• When you think you’re buried, you’re actually being planted

• Be kind to yourself

2019 was my most travelled year! 🌎

Here is my #topnine collage for 2019!

January – Vegas

February – Chicago

March – Sacramento

April – Canada 🇨🇦

May – Atlanta and Destin

June – The only month I did not travel! But here’s a pic anyway 😊

July – Virginia

August – Puerto Rico 🇵🇷 29th birthday 🎂🎉

September – D.C., Boston and Chicago

October – Tampa and New Jersey/NYC

November – New Orleans

December – I am currently at the airport for a last minute NYE getaway! 😁

I decided to go “off the grid” for a while. I’m using this much needed time to rest, reflect, and recharge. My main focus for 2020 is healing. I am praying for healing for all of my friends and family. Remember, life is tough, but so are you! I am going to continue healing myself mentally, physically, spiritually, and emotionally. My plan is to invest in becoming the best version of me. Ironically enough, I am currently reading “Becoming” by the most admired woman in 2019, Michelle Obama.

My favorite quote from her book is:

“For me, becoming isn’t about arriving somewhere or achieving a certain aim. I see it instead as forward motion, a means of evolving, a way to reach continuously toward a better self. The journey doesn’t end.”

Wishing all of my readers from near and far a Happy New Year! Here’s to a prosperous and successful new decade… 2020 vision! 🎉💜

Until next time,

Bry Inspired

“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.”

I am currently on the plane home from an amazing trip to San Juan, Puerto Rico! My mind is full of all the wonderful, fun, exciting, adventurous and most importantly memorable experiences I had. One of my best friends, Ashley, joined me in Puerto Rico. We had such an awesome time exploring the isla del encanto (island of charm)!

We stayed at Condado Vanderbilt. Upon arrival we were warmly greeted by our host, Bryan, who also welcomed us with complimentary champagne. Happy birthday to me!

My week was full of recruitment events around the island. I visited each University of San Juan campus location and also hosted San Juan nights where I spoke to over 1,200 students! I had very long work days but it was such an amazing opportunity to be able to talk to students, families and counselors about continuing their education in the states.

This was the beautiful view at Condado beach!

Puerto Rico is full of beautiful places and beautiful people! Everyone we came in contact with was so welcoming and friendly. What I loved the most is that the people of Puerto Rico are full of pride! They are so prideful and proudly showcase the Puertorrican flag on just about everything.

I noticed the word “fuerza” largely displayed on the side one one particular building. It actually means “strength” in Spanish. This the perfect word to represent the people of Puerto Rico!

Driving around the island, you could still see the devastating affects of hurricane Maria. I am praying for the people of Puerto Rico and hope they will keep their “fuerza” (strength) with facing the upcoming threat of hurricane Dorian. Despite their circumstances they always choose to be strong and keep carrying on!

There were so many beautiful murals:

My favorite part of Puerto Rico is Old San Juan. I enjoyed learning and exploring the rich culture and history of the island.

The very first night in Old San Juan this happened…

#birdistheword #birdsofafeather #birdseyeview #pollywantacracker

I was completely terrified at first but the birds were trained so I just went along with it. 😎

Here are some of my other favorite locations:

📍Castillo San Felipe del Morro

This massive 6-story fort was built in the early 1500’s shortly after Puerto Rico was discovered. Puerto Rico is known as the “rich port”.

Puerto = port Rico = rich

San Juan was given it’s name to honor Saint John the Baptist. Spain claimed the island and used El Morro as a protector for the Spanish-American war and later World World I and II. It was interesting to walk around each level of the ancient fort and imagine what took place there.

While in Old San Juan, we strolled down Calle Fortaleza, however, due to the recent protests the infamous umbrellas were removed.

There were still many lingering sentiments regarding the previous Governor…

📍Kasalta

Kasalta is a nice cafe near Condado. This is the table President Barack Obama sat at during his visit. I stopped by to grab a pastry and of course take this photo!

📍Raices

Raices translates to “roots”. This highly recommended restaurant serves the best mofongo in town all while celebrating Afro-Caribbean roots! I ordered the chef’s special mofongo which is mashed plantains with skirt steak and a creamy white sauce. Although I wasn’t a fan of the texture of mofongo, this dish was full of flavor! I am glad to say that I tried the signature Puerto Rican dish. My trip would not have been complete without this!

📍El Yunque Rainforest

I have never been to a rainforest so to be quite honest I was a bit nervous about what would transpire… lions, tigers and bears OH MY!

My mind was quickly set at ease upon entering the rainforest to see that there were no dangerous animals, instead, there were beautiful flowers, trees, and scenic views that would take your breath away. It ended up being such a serene place to visit.

La Cocoa Falls

Yokahu Tower

We hiked to the top of the Yokahu tower to find beautiful panoramic views of the island.

Angelito Trail

The last stop at El Yunque was Angelito trail. We took the nearly mile hike down hill to get to the natural pool. The water was so cool and refreshing on a hot summer day. It was the perfect place to relax and sun bathe. The hike back up the mountain was treacherous but it was definitely worth it!

📍Samuel Lind Art Studio

The Samuel Lind Art Studio was my favorite and most memorable experience from this trip! Samuel is a phenomenally talented artist from Loíza. Thank you Samuel for your amazing art and opening up your home studio to share it!

Samuel is not only passionate about his art, he is also passionate about the culture and tradition of his town. Samuel proudly shared the history of Loíza and how he uses art to showcase his people. He is a very soft spoken gentleman but his art is dynamic and speaks volumes! With his permission I have displayed some of his beautiful work below.

The people of Puerto Rico are a mix of three different races: Spanish, Indian (Taíno) and African. Loíza is known as “El Pueblo de la Cacica” which means the town of the Cacica. Cacica is a female leader of an indigenous group. The town Loíza derived from Yuiza, a Taíno female chief who changed her name to “Luisa” upon being baptized by the Spaniards.

Portraits of Cacica Yuiza

Loíza soon became a place of refuge for Africans escaping slavery. Nigerian slaves of the Yoruba tribe settled in Loíza in the 16th century. They kept their African-inspired traditions such as la Bomba and Plena (music and dance of the slaves) and Fiestas Patronales de Santiago Apostol (festival to honor Saint James).

“The sun illuminates me” – Samuel Lind

Loíza is on the edge of the island. Slaves who worked there would see ships coming to the port filled with their African brothers and sisters. There is a story of the “freedom swim” that is painfully brutal. It is said that slave owners would bet on slaves and have them swim across the Rio Grande. If they were successful they would be free, but unfortunately, many did not make it to the other side. Could you imagine swimming across for your freedom?

Despite the painful history, it made me happy to see the strength and resiliency that the people of Puerto Rico possess. It was amazing to live life as a local and experience the real Puerto Rico. I love the simplicity of the island life. No one is in a rush, everyone is friendly and most importantly they know how to have a fun!

Thanks to my global entry card and TSA pre check I zoomed through security and was able to have a cocktail before boarding my flight. This drink is called “crazy melons”, the bar tender made it just for me — Leo’s celebrate our birthdays all month! ♌️🎉

I had a wonderful conversation with a woman at the bar. We talked about her family from Puerto Rico and how she loves to travel just like me! She left for her flight and I left shortly after. When I asked the bar tender for the check but he said the woman had already paid for mine. She was so sweet and had such a great spirit! I wish I could have thanked her!

For those of you considering traveling to Puerto Rico, I would definitely recommend it! No passport is required, the currency is USD and many people speak English. A few apps I recommend downloading are “maps.me” and “google translate”. You can also download offline versions of content on these apps to help you navigate foreign territory.

Travel is the best way to be lost and found at the same time. Life isn’t about the destination, it’s truly about the journey. I can’t tell you how many times we got lost in old San Juan or how many times we drove around in circles because we couldn’t find the next turn –“Donde esta la Factoría?!” Haha 😆

However, we survived. We made it and have countless memories and stories to share! I found out a little more about myself along this journey, too. I learned to take the road less traveled, slow down, and just enjoy the simple things in life. Never take anything for granted and live every moment as if it were your last.

This trip both encouraged me and humbled me at the same time. I am forever grateful for everything I have in my life and for the opportunity to travel and explore this beautiful world. This trip was full of serendipitous moments that allowed me to be filled with peace and gratitude. I will forever cherish these memories. Viva Puerto Rico! 🇵🇷❤️

Here’s my challenge to you: Once a year, go someplace you’ve never been!

Until next time, Bry Inspired!

April was an amazing month full of travel adventures! I started off in Sacramento, California then headed to Toronto (see previous post) and ended in Atlanta, Georgia. 7,000 miles traveled in 3 weeks. It was a busy, but exciting, month!

One thing that enhanced my travel experiences was the Anywhere Travel Guide I purchased from Amazon. I randomly selected cards each trip to make my travel more fun and exciting.

This was the first card I selected. I stayed in Old Sacramento near the capital so I followed the directions which led me to discover something amazing!

I stumbled upon the Old Sacramento Schoolhouse Museum. This is a one-room schoolhouse built in the 1800s. Interesting fact, it was also the first integrated schoolhouse in Sacramento.

I already have my masters degree, but maybe I’ll go back to school for another degree? #studentforlife #ilovelearning #lifelonglearner

Next I continued walking towards downtown. There was a beautiful rose garden near the capital. I loved the peace and tranquillity of this area.

I attended an amazing church service at Center of Praise in Midtown. The sermon was all about joy, finding joy, being joy, and living with joy. I am so blessed that God has given me such a joyous life full of adventure!

While exploring after church I selected another card:

I was pleasantly surprised with my choice at Tres Hermanas Mexican Restaurant.

This was my last card in Sacramento. I shared three photos and memories with someone who I thought needed them, I hope it inspired them.

Meet Jay and Jodie

This is one of my favorite memories from Old Sacramento. I took this picture during an early morning walk. I was fascinated by this old car so I snapped this picture and talked to the owners who were walking up, Jay and Jodie. They shared their love story with me and how they met… in Cincinnati, Ohio! We had a great conversation. This just showed me that we really live in a small world and that if they can be together for 40 years, love is possible for everyone.

Overall, Sacramento was amazing! These are a few of my favorite shots from the trip.

Welcome to Atlanta

Atlanta is one of my favorite cities. For me, it’s full of family, food and fun! I enjoyed my time exploring the culture and cuisine Atlanta had to offer. Of course, the southern hospitality and sunshine are also what draws me to Hotlanta.

I found this sticker at the infamous Jackson Street Bridge. It’s the perfect reminder that YOU are awesome!

This was my favorite mural that I found while walking near my hotel.

“If you can’t fly, then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.” – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

My next card instructed me to get a newspaper and find a beautiful sentence. The sentence I selected was “This has been an amazing journey and I’m grateful for the fact that the will of God and the will of the people prevailed.”

I read the sentence to a stranger in passing and asked for their most beautiful word. They actually stated that there were two words that stood out.

God’s will – because that is all that matters. We need to trust God’s plan no matter what the situation may be.

Grateful – this is how you have to live your life. Someone is wishing to have your worst day. Ups. Downs. Pain. Strength. Happiness. Disappointment. Struggle. Success. Count it all joy!

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18

My final card instructed me to find a flower or balloon and exchange it for a piece of advice. Luca was the first person I came across in Olympic Park. I introduced myself, gave him a flower, and asked for his best advice.

“Learn how to be like water – just flow with life and every obstacle that comes along with it. Embrace life as it comes, have faith in God and don’t be afraid to go against the grain.”

Before leaving, he came over and returned the favor by gifting me a flower and telling me our conversation brightened his day. Thank you for the advice, Luca, and thank you for your kindness.

There are good people everywhere… if you can’t find one, be one.

Until next time, Bry Inspired!

“Travel isn’t about leaving our homes, it’s about leaving our habits.”

Why do you like to travel? For me, I enjoy being able to immerse myself in the culture of a new place. I like checking out all the best restaurants and tourist locations but I also like living like a local. I had the opportunity to do all of the above during my trip to Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

I was fortunate enough to travel to Toronto for a work conference. It was just a short hour flight from Columbus, but it truly felt like I had flown across the world!

My experiences were absolutely amazing! If I could describe Toronto in one word… it would be rich. Rich in culture, rich in food, rich in diversity… Toronto is the happening place to be!

And of course, who doesn’t love a good passport stamp?

I arrived at Toronto Pearson International (YXZ) Airport, which sees over 40 million passengers each year, and was recently named “Best large airport in North America”.

This was a massively large airport but they had excellent customer service, short lines, free ipads at the charging stations and all the Tim Hortons you could ask for.

Amazing, right? Once getting through customs with a breeze, I did my currency exchange and then made my way to the UP Express train terminal.

The train is the fastest and most convenient way to get to Union Station. On my 25 minute, air conditioned and wi-fi equipped train ride, I met Lorina. She is a Corporate Banking Senior Analyst from Albania and uses the train to get to her job in the centre each day. We talked about her family, history, and some of her favorite places to travel. After our brief conversation, I have now added Albania to my bucket list! Thank you for being so kind to me and for being my first friend in Canada, Lorina!

Once arriving at Union Station, it was a short walk to my downtown hotel.

I had the most amazing views of the city! 🌃

The Toronto sign changed colors at night! 🇨🇦

Tim Hortons for breakfast by the fire place was a must! ☕️

One thing that stuck out to me was that the license plates say “yours to discover”, and I did just that. The conference had built in free time for lunch, networking, and happy hours. Staying downtown it was very convenient to discover some exquisite Canadian cuisine. Assembly Chef’s Hall was my go to for all types of signature Canadian dishes. If you’re a foodie, this is the place for you!

 

The very first dish I tried was “poutine”. It is a french inspired signature dish that Canada is known for. This dish consists of french fries, cheese curds, and gravy. I personally wasn’t a fan of the cheese curds, but I still had to try it. When in Rome, right?

3 random facts I learned:

1. Only in Canada they say “see you” instead of “goodbye”

2. It’s “washrooms” not “bathrooms”

3. There are personal hand held card machines for you to use at restaurants – why haven’t we caught on to this?!

One thing that I loved about Toronto was the diversity! Seeing so many people from various walks of life living and working together was such a beautiful thing. I’ve been to NYC, but Toronto is truly the melting pot in my eyes. Every race, religion and ethnicity seemed to be represented. Most importantly, everyone got along. There weren’t riots, fighting, or hatred towards certain types of people. Everyone embraced their differences and it was such a beautiful sight to see.

“We shall never know all the good that a simple smile can do.” – Mother Teresa

A picture is worth a thousand words. It all started with a simple smile. Two strangers, with different cultures, races, and religions randomly meeting and sharing a moment together in a new country… this is why I love to travel! We both embraced and respected our differences. I had a great conversation with this Hindu man who was with a large group from India who were racing to the top of the CN tour. Apparently, they do this race annually, and this year’s climb for change was for nature. I’m so inspired by this group who travelled all the way across the world to support a cause they are passionate about. This is the true definition of benevolence. So thankful for our interaction and to @photowalkto for capturing the perfect moment. We should all strive to be more kind and compassionate. ❤️

I met some great people along the way. All of their stories made my journey absolutely amazing. 😊

After all, all you need is love.

I’m sure you’ve heard of Airbnb homes, but have you ever done an Airbnb experience? I highly recommend it! I booked a photo tour with @photowalkto. My professional photographer for the photoshoot, Aiman, owns @FlawsomePhotography. I love his definition:

Flawsome (adj.) an individual who embraces their “flaws” and know they’re awesome regardless.

*Insert hair flip 💁🏾‍♀️ and okurrrrrrt in my Cardi B voice 😜

Aiman did a phenomenal job capturing the perfect photos of me, flaws and all! Here are a few of my favs:

Follow him on Instagram @Photowalkto, you will not be disappointed!

When traveling, I don’t know a stranger. I love meeting new people! I decided to venture out to see what Toronto nightlife was like. Mind you, I’m almost 29 so I can’t hang like I used to. I stumbled upon a spot called Carlotta Bar. This was a cute and quaint Mexican tapas restaurant located in the Beverly Hotel. The ambiance was an entire vibe. Great music, food, and drinks. Thank you to the amazing hotel staff, bartenders, and servers who made my night so enjoyable.

My only regret, not getting the Mexican street corn. I’ll be back for that next time!

Although I didn’t find Drake, I found this:

Be sure to check out the Beverly Hotel next time you are in Toronto!

I met so many amazing people on this trip, but one who forever changed my heart was Miss Sally St. Lewis. Sally and I randomly happened to cross paths by an elevator at our hotel. She asked me if I was here volunteering as April is volunteer month in Canada. I kindly stated no, but that I was here for a work conference. The few short minutes we spent together changed my life. We talked about her upbringing in a war torn country, her family, and her life as a nurse. She had retired decades ago but was at the hotel because she was volunteering for the Red Cross. She has been traveling the world and volunteering with them for over 60 years!

Check out her amazing story published by the Canadian Red Cross

I felt so inspired and honored just to be in her presence. Her smile and spirit were so bright! She said that she tries to stay active but it is difficult for her because she suffers from back problems. I asked if I could pray for her and she agreed. We prayed together and it was so beautiful. I am thankful to have witnessed her kindness, commitment to service and most importantly her compassion for helping others! She left me with the parting words “Be good to yourself, and others, my dear”. I will, Miss Sally, I will. 💜

Until next time, Bry Inspired!

 

 

Happy first day of Spring! I am enjoying the fact that our days are getting longer and the sun is shining more often. Since I am not traveling this month, I decided to share a throwback of my favorite vacation spot, Italy!

Did you have big plans for spring break? I had my first mission trip planned this month but it was cancelled due to the civil unrest that is happening in Haiti. Sometimes a change of plans can be frustrating, especially when you have a type A personality like I do, but I’m just thankful to be safe and secure.

We must learn to adjust and adapt when things don’t go as planned. The free time that opened up gave me additional time to focus on both my personal and professional goals. This month I became a certified Mental Health First Aider by the National Council for Behavioral Health. You can learn more about the training here:

https://www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org

I have practiced mindfulness meditation and laughter yoga, two new concepts to help reduce stress and be more present. I am learning that it is okay to take a break. It’s important reflect on how far you’ve come and look forward, with anticipation, to the bright future that lies ahead.

Besides Italy, the beach is my happy place. This time last year I was in Miami, Florida. As photos from this amazing trip flooded my memories, all I could do was smile.

I am so thankful for change, growth and continuous improvement. I’ve learned a few valuable lessons along the way:

• Being still doesn’t mean don’t move. It means move in peace.

• Slow down, take a moment to just be.

• Remember that someone is praying to have your worst day.

• Count your blessings more than you count your troubles.

You can be sure and still wonder. You can be stuck and still in progress. You can be authentic and still discovering.

Until next time, Bry Inspired!

“To love oneself is the beginning of a life-long romance” – Oscar Wilde

Confession: I am a hopeless romantic. I’m in love with the idea of love. I love everything about love because I choose to practice self love above all else. We can’t fully love others unless we love ourselves.

Although I’m single, I had a great time celebrating Valentine’s Day by myself in the Windy City. Being alone and being lonely are not synonymous. If you’re single, don’t worry about FOMO (fear of missing out), go out and create your own amazing memories! If you’re in a committed relationship, do something special for your partner to show your appreciation in an extraordinary way!

Southwest is my favorite airline for many reasons but primarily because of their exemplary customer service. They always go above and beyond to show LUV to their customers. I thought this was a cute gesture and a great way to kick off my Valentine’s Day travel! Here are a few of my favorite photos from my trip to Chicago:

Sharing the LUV at Southwest Airlines

Chicago Theatre

Cloud Gate at Millennium Park “The Bean”

“MAKE BIG PLANS” Chicago Cultural Center

Heart-shaped deep dish pizza from Giordano’s at Navy Pier

Learn to adopt the habit of self love. Whether you are single or in a committed relationship, self love should be your first love. At the end of the day, you start and end with yourself. Focus on accomplishing the goals that you aspire to achieve. Remember to save some you, for you. Sometimes this means taking a step back from the people, places, and things that bring chaos to your life.

Don’t let anything consume or disrupt your peace. Be sure you aren’t waisting your time or energy on love that isn’t reciprocated. Don’t hold on to hurt, anger, or pain from the past. They steal your energy and keep you from receiving the love you deserve.

This week, think about your favorite qualities. What do you love most about yourself? Focus on your positive attributes instead of your flaws. Embrace the fact that you are perfectly imperfect. Don’t seek validation from others, love yourself just as you are. Always be willing to give love one more try.

Until next time, Bry Inspired! ❤️

Each year when Black History Month comes around, we celebrate the culture and essence of all things black! What does Black History Month mean to you? To me, it’s simply a time to celebrate black excellence in every form!

In all my travels, I found that the African diaspora spreads far and wide! I’ve been fortunate enough to meet some of the most beautiful black and brown people from all over the world!

This past August, I took my first ever solo international trip to Cartagena, Colombia. One of the highlights from my birthday trip was visiting San Basilio de Palenque.

Palenque was the first free slave community in the Americas. They built the walled city and created Palenque to escape slavery in Cartagena. This small village was filled with citizens who have preserved the original language and traditions from the first Africans who settled there. This amazing experience sparked my interest of wanting to learn more about my own personal family history.

This year, I put the HISTORY in Black History Month. Check out my DNA results from MyHeritage DNA:

I am 67% African, 30% European, 2% Middle Eastern and 1% Asian. My dominate African ethnicity is Nigerian and my dominate European ethnicity is Iberian (Spanish and Portuguese)! In addition to being 2% Somalian, I was surprised to find out that I am nearly 15% Irish, Scottish, and Welsh! I can’t wait to explore these countries, research ancestors and create my family tree!

“I refuse to accept the view that mankind is so tragically bound to the starless midnight of racism and war that the bright daybreak of peace and brotherhood can never become a reality…. I believe that unarmed truth and unconditional love will have the final word.”
— Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

When you turn on the news, how are people of color portrayed? Do you use these negative and inaccurate stereotypes to make your own personal assumptions? On a daily basis marginalized populations face countless acts of racism, micro aggressions, and systemic oppression, however, we refuse to let hate win.

In order to heal as a nation, we have to be comfortable with being uncomfortable. We all have implicit biases that we don’t even recognize. Instead of believing what you see and hear, I challenge you to meet a friend outside of your race, religion, or ethnicity. You’ll laugh, cry, and gain valuable insight from their personal experiences but most importantly, you’ll learn how much we share in common and how similar we all really are.

Having courageous conversations (regarding race, religion, politics etc.) will give you a chance to ask questions, dispel myths, and overcome your fear of the unknown. A simple interaction with someone who looks differently than you will change your entire perspective. If we want to achieve unity, peace, and gain a sense of community, we have to be willing to educate ourselves about people outside of our cultural norms. This is how we will learn to overcome the hatred and bigotry in our world today. We can no longer allow hate to divide us.

Little Known Black History Facts:

Did you know?

• Phillis Wheatley was only 12 years old when she became the first female African American author published in the 1700s.

• Benjamin Banneker was a self-taught astronomer who became the first African American scientist.

• In 1831, Tice Davids, a runaway slave from Kentucky, was the inspiration behind the term “underground railroad”. When he swam across the Ohio River to freedom, his former owner thought he’d drowned and told the local newspaper if Davids had indeed escaped, he must have gone off on an “underground railroad.” (Davids actually made it alive and well.)

No matter the question, the answer is love. Love one another as God loves us all. Solidarity trumps hate. Choose to see the good, seek the good, and be the good. Let’s continue to make the world a better place by embracing our differences and loving our neighbors – no exceptions.

Until next time, Bry Inspired!

 

Thanks for joining me!

“Though we travel the world in our search for beauty and nobility, we will not find it unless we carry it in ourselves” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

Hello! 

Welcome to the inaugural “Bry Inspired” blog post! My name is Bryanna but I prefer to go by Bry – pronounced just like the cheese (smile). See what I did there? Life is too short not to smile often. I’m a twenty-something higher education professional with a passion for adventure. I created this blog as a space to share my travel, life experiences, and all things happy in hopes to inspire YOU! 

My travel journey began nearly a decade ago. In 2010 I participated in my college’s cultural immersion program in Italy. This was my first flight ever, my first time out of my home state of Ohio (Go Bucks!), and my first time traveling abroad. Italy was life changing! I met so many amazing people and gained indescribable experiences. There was something about the excitement of traveling to the unknown that intrigued me – from that moment on I caught the travel bug and became the proud wanderlust I am today. 

My first trip of 2019 was to Las Vegas, Nevada! This was a family trip to celebrate my little brother’s 21st birthday. What better way to celebrate your 21st, right? While I can’t share everything, because what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, here are a few highlights:

One of my favorite excursions was visiting a place called “7 Magic Mountains”. This hidden gem was nestled just on the outskirts of the city. At first, the area was crowded with tourists, but I decided to venture off the beaten path and stumbled upon this: 

Serendipity (n.) – an unplanned, fortunate discovery 

Alexa, play “God’s Plan”. No, but seriously. At this exact moment, I felt such overwhelming peace. I took a moment to be still, be present, and be mindful. Looking out on the horizon, I saw my pain, sorrows, and struggles but I also saw my perseverance, resiliency, and strength. Most importantly, I saw my future, and it looked beautiful! This moment of serendipity wasn’t just about the mountains, it was about myself. You can’t travel to seek beauty if you don’t already have a beautiful mindset within. Traveling allows you to see beauty in it’s most simplistic form. I thank the Lord for continuing to show us His beautiful works. 

Although this was my 7th time in Vegas, I can certainly say it was my most favorite trip yet. Having my family with me to experience the sights and sounds of sin city made it all the more memorable. This was a much needed getaway for all of us and I feel so blessed that we were able to start off the new year by creating these wonderful memories together. When is the last time you traveled with your loved ones? It doesn’t have to be 2,000 miles across the country, but make it a point to do so more often. 

If you can’t travel, simply reach out to those loved ones you haven’t seen in awhile just to catch up, say hello, and see how they are doing. We all lead busy lives but taking a moment to have a brief conversation with a loved one can truly make a difference. It will not only lift their spirits, but yours as well. Life is precious. Continue to find and appreciate the beauty found in the simple things.

Until next time, Bry Inspired!