Back in 2016, I shared daily—typos and all—and with each post, more readers found their way to my blog. That consistency is what grew this community. Fast forward to 2026: life is busier, and time feels scarce, but I find myself missing the connection that came from frequent sharing. So, I’m bringing back that spirit in a new way. This monthly roundup is my attempt to recapture that daily spark, sharing the fashion, food, music, articles, and home goods that made January special—in no particular order.
Didn’t Break the Bank but Banged
Even though I held off on most purchases this month, I couldn’t resist picking up a few things to kickstart the design of my apartment after a lot of research. No one prepares you for how stressful it gets when your taste evolves and you want your space to reflect that.
- Nicole Miller bathroom waste bin, If not for the signature on the basket, I wouldn’t have believed it was authentic. I’ve always associated Nicole Miller with fashion, so it’s fascinating to see the brand has products in the home good section.
- A bath bliss toilet brush, which I got from bed bath and beyond but is way cheaper on Wayfair.
Discovering What and How I want to Create
n the spring of 2025, I reached an impasse in my creative journey. I was losing the joy I once found in creating, which led me to start a series on creativity for my newsletter. The insights I gained from that experience inspired me to explore new ways and mediums to share my work, which has always centered on fashion. By the end of last year, I realized that sharing my thought process around how I dress could help me be more consistent. That’s how the “Style With Me” series was born.
This project has given me a newfound appreciation for my existing wardrobe and curbed my desire to buy new clothes. Here are a few items I restyled
It has also been two months since I relaunched my footwear brand, GAFA.CO (formerly Gafasandals), and I love how the process has pushed me to think deeply about the product, the market it serves, and the intentionality required to build a brand.
Things I liked
From fashion to skincare, there were a range of products I fell in love in January. My favorite product this month would be the One Skin body lotion. Winter has been brutal and somehow this the one product my skin has responded to.
Diff offers some stylish blue light glasses—perfect for the eyesight if you spend long hours in front of screens.
I showed a lot of restraint when it came to purchasing clothing in January. Instead, I added a few carefully considered pieces to my wishlist. With spring on the horizon, some of these items may soon find their way from wishlist to wardrobe as I continue refining my personal style in my 30s.
Fashion Forward for Spring
When its Good and its Food
I owe you all a review of some DMV restaurants where I’ve dined and truly felt my money was well spent. To kick off my restaurant visits this year, I teamed up with friends to revisit a few favorites and try new items from their menus. These three restaurants each represent a different cuisine—Mediterranean, American, and French. I can’t wait for the weather to warm up so I can discover more spots and collaborate with local eateries around the DMV.
Maydan, DC (Mediterranean cuisine $$$): The portion was worth the price, and if you decide to visit, I will recommend their halloumi dish. My party had the tasting menu, which allows you to explore different items from their appetizers, entrée, and desserts.
Ada’s by the River (American cuisine $$ – $$$): I have visited a couple of times to have brunch and my go-to is their biscuits, but this time, I paired their chard salad and salmon and it didn’t 8
Josephines Old town (French Cuisine $$- $$$): Once a comfort spot for me and the girls and now I just go for salad, which seems to be
Places I visited
After a wonderful time spent with family in Nigeria for the holidays, I returned to the U.S. in the New Year. My first outdoor activity after my return was a visit to the National Gallery of Arts to catch the “Photography and the black Arts Movement,” exhibition. It was well curated and a lot of moving imagery to remind me of those who fought the good fight at a time when it was difficult to do so. It is also black history month…and the images from this visit reminds me of why we say, “Happy Black History Month.”
Rhythm I Danced to
If you had asked me to add a song to a playlist back in 2016, there was a 9 out of 10 chance it would have been a One Direction track. Over the years, each member has found their own rhythm, and my appreciation for them has only grown. In fact, for two consecutive years, Niall Horan has topped my Spotify Wrapped. All this is to say that my current favorite replay is Harry Styles’ single “Aperture.” I’ve also been loving “Ebube Dike” by Chinyere Udoma.
Still Reading and Watching
Now, I’m not sure why I’ve insisted on finishing “All the Colors of the Dark.” True to its name, I seem determined to torture myself and see it through to the end. I want so badly to enjoy the plot, just as many Goodreads reviewers have, but I’m struggling. As a non-quitter, I’ll share my thoughts once I finally finish the book.
On the bright side, other creative works have been bringing me joy this season—like Season 3 of Shrinking on Apple TV and Korean Culinary Wars on Netflix. These shows have truly brought back the joy of watching television—just absolute cinema.
Conclusion
As I look back on this month’s journey—curating my space, finding joy in music, savoring cuisines from the restaurant scene, and reflecting on art and creativity—I’m reminded that fulfillment often lies in the simple, intentional moments. Returning to old habits, like sharing my creative process and connecting with this community, has brought a renewed sense of purpose.
Whether it’s a song on repeat, a new series, or a book that challenges my patience, these little experiences shape my days and keep me inspired. Thank you for joining me on this roundup. I hope it encourages you to find joy in your own everyday activities and to celebrate the small wins that make each month memorable.
