It has officially been 10 years since I started writing this Urban Gypzy styled blog. The vision was strong when I started wanting to have a platform for my art, mood boards and writings. Wanting to speak to the audience of people to inspire, bring hope, and balance in what was then a very turbulent time in my personal world. Times have changed so much, but the mission is still the same. I have thought about how to make UG more engaging, and this year will be different. What will stay the same is the monthly mood boards. I have to make sure I am able to inspire in the ways that I do best. This includes but is not limited to curated style, eating for health, decor that provides a safe place to pray, dream, decompress, host close friends. Stay heavy on the community building in both personal and professional spaces. Going to events, promoting other artists and myself.

My city Minneapolis has always gone through changes, as to not turn this into an essay post,
Outsiders have been defining us in the media lately. I’m not with the propaganda, so moving on

I am just going to say that it is inspiring and I love  Minneapolis. It is my city, and I stay inspired by the great history and old families like mine, who still maintain values.

January for some, can be a very hard blue month. Personally I have truly enjoyed winter, now we are in the thick of it. In February, I believe winter is a time for resting, strategy, budgeting, planning, prayer and closeness to GOD by way of surrendering it all to HIM, getting cozy and of course brunches, and dinner with family and friends whenever possible.

Dress like it, walk like it, talk like it, too!

Showing up should require a great fit and time taken on a polished look. If one doesn’t want to feel mid, one should not drag one’s feet on the upkeep. If you need ideas, you can count on me!

Spring/Summer basics are already on the radar. Winter has been about the art of layering, which is awesome, but winter won’t last always, soon it will be wet and rainy. Why not plan for the looks now so when the season changes we are ready.

Staples will include colored trousers, t-shirts, button ups, combat boots, high heels, decorative tights, suit jackets as per always and a leather jacket and trench and rain coat collection. Accessories, and lipstick, blush and eyeshadow combinations

The Budget

It is always a conversation, budgets are good for financial wellness. Making sure while saving where possible, there is always thoughtful intent behind purchases. Hopefully we consider items that can age well so the items do not need to be replaced often. Buying things that are classic and not super trendy gives more wear ability and usability. Decluttering before purchasing can reduce buying items multiple times, or even items that never get worn or used. Decluttering also helps the living space breathe and be more welcoming on days that are best for staying in.

Decor, it is so tempting to go shopping for a home, and to get more items. This year, the idea is to keep my apartment clean, dusted and tidy, and if I do add items that are needed, like cutlery, pots for cooking meals and plants for Spring to add to my sun porch, other than that find adventure outside as soon as the weather breaks.

Black and Indigenous history

The history of copper colored people is very ancient. I don’t just celebrate in one month because it is and has truly been a lifestyle to represent culture everyday. As a professional by day and as an artist by night. This year while also focusing on the greats that have come before me, I would like to also introduce my own art and works more. Lately, I have not been doing the best in featuring on this platform or others what I do as an artist.

In the era of social media, I have been in silent rebellion just being and doing. Truly I am a person that is better in “real life” . The idea of being attention seeking is a bit of a turn off, however since I have been growing this platform for 10 years now, it’s simply time to get out of my own way. So I am determined to do just that in 2026.

Prayer life

This has been central to maintaining my joy in these troubling times, especially since my city Minneapolis has been under a microscope. With everything from fraud to the protest businesses are closing, “no ICE” signs against Americans, agitators, biased news, and the erasure of any other issues but illegal immigrants have been concerning. No matter how anyone feels lies are lies and truth is truth. Treating people like the segregated 60’s because you don’t believe in their political affiliation is wrong, but has become the troubling norm. Social media wants to encourage division instead of nurturing mediation, just to see the city burn, this is like letting hate win. Remember GOD is and will always be in control.

The Power of Kindness

To live in impact that is anything else is a waste of time. You truly get what you give out, and no one knows what anyone else is going through.

Wintering!

Wintering as we approach a change in season, the days are slowly getting longer, the weather is going to be above 30, at least for the next 10 days, the sun is making more of an appearance, and the rest of winter is wrapping itself up. I truly hope each and everyone of you seek Jesus Christ and rest deep inside His Word in the days to come. Be smart and wise, don’t jump to be offended, even if someone intends for you to, and start living your best life through discipline, focus and rest because you only have one you.

Thank you so very much for joining me. Until next time! May the LORD GOD bless and keep you, each and everyone one!