“Recharged, Refocused, and Ready to Write Again”

It’s been a while since I’ve been blogging, and I truly miss it when I’m gone. Writing a book really does take time, but dang — I didn’t have to walk away from blogging. Blogging helps me get my groove back when I don’t feel like writing.

I was at my daughter’s house for three weeks. We have so much fun together. There’s plenty of room for us to spread out, and we both love our together time just as much as we love our time apart. Plus, I get to be with my grand‑dog, Brendan. I love him so much it’s crazy — and he loves me too. Dearly. God blessed me to spend that time with him.

My daughter always said if she doesn’t have a husband, she won’t have kids — and she meant that. So her focus is her job and going back to school. Having a dog for a grandson is EVEN BETTER FOR ME, especially with the way teens and kids are taking such a hit in life these days. It saddens me to see all that’s going on.

Then when it’s time to come home to my lovely place — still don’t have furniture yet — but this place is going to be so beautiful when I do. The way it’s made and built is exactly what I asked God for.

I made me and Nesha a candle, and I finally, FINALLY found the perfect double‑wick candle I’ve been looking for. I believe in finding the perfect wick for the jars I choose. It’s a black 10 oz candle, and it’s going to sell well. I’m thinking of pairing the book with that candle — so people can enjoy the book while lighting it. I’m excited for what’s to come.

I’m back, family, and I’ll chat with y’all tomorrow.

When are you most happy?

Happiness doesn’t always come from big moments. For me, it’s found in the everyday spaces where love, laughter, and peace live.

I’m at my happiest when I’m with my family. We have so much fun together—real, belly-deep laughter that fills the room and reminds me how blessed I am. I love watching the kids, too. They’re growing up so fast, and every time I look at them, I’m amazed at how much they’ve changed and who they’re becoming.

I also enjoy spending weeks with my daughter and my granddog Brendan, just enjoying each other’s company. Those days are full of simple routines, shared meals, quiet moments, and the kind of comfort that only comes from being around people (and pets) who know your heart.

But I’ve learned to enjoy my quiet moments too. There’s something special about going to the park alone, sitting with my thoughts, and just letting life settle around me. Those moments of stillness help me breathe, reflect, and reconnect with myself.

And of course, there are the things that bring me joy in the simplest ways—writing, watching the Lions play, taking a drive downtown, and just relaxing. I don’t need much. I’m a simple person, and I’m grateful for the things that make my life feel full.

Sometimes happiness is just that: being present, being grateful, and enjoying the people and moments that make life feel good.

Photo by Jeffery Hyte

Are you more of a night or morning person?

🌅 From Midnight Shifts to Morning Bliss

For years, I lived as a night owl. Working midnights shaped my routine, my energy, and even my mindset. I thought mornings were for other people—the ones who thrived on early alarms, coffee at sunrise, and productivity before noon. Me? I was used to the quiet of the night, the stillness when the world seemed asleep.

But life has a way of surprising us. After many years of midnight shifts, it took me just as many years to retrain myself to embrace mornings. And now, I can say with confidence: I am a morning person.

🌞 Why I Love Mornings Now

There’s something powerful about waking up early. The day feels wide open, full of possibility. I start by writing down everything I need to do—my little roadmap for the day. And the best part? I actually get it done.

  • Meals planned: I know what’s for breakfast and dinner before the day even begins.
  • Tasks handled: Calls are made, errands are completed, and the house gets cleaned.
  • Balance built in: I even carve out time for a nap, so I recharge without guilt.
  • Evenings free: By the time dinner is made, I can relax with a movie before bed.

It’s a rhythm that feels natural, fulfilling, and peaceful.

🌸 The Shift in Perspective

I used to think mornings were restrictive, that waking up early meant giving up freedom. But now I see it differently. Mornings give me structure, and structure gives me freedom. Instead of rushing or feeling behind, I move through my day with intention.

The sunlight pouring through my window feels like an invitation to live fully. The quiet hours before the world gets busy are mine to claim. And the satisfaction of ending the day knowing I’ve done what I set out to do? That’s priceless.

✨ A Lesson in Change

Becoming a morning person taught me something bigger than just sleep schedules: change is possible. Even when habits feel ingrained, even when we think “this is just who I am,” life can shift. With patience, practice, and openness, we can grow into new rhythms that serve us better.

I never thought I’d love mornings. But here I am, embracing them wholeheartedly. And honestly? I wouldn’t trade this new chapter for anything.

Share five things you’re good at

🗣️ Communication

I love to communicate. Expressing my feelings and thoughts is second nature to me. Whether it’s talking with people or listening to understand how they feel, communication is my way of building bridges. It’s not just about words—it’s about connection, empathy, and understanding.

🧩 Problem Solving

I study people a lot, not to judge, but to understand. Everyone handles life differently, shaped by their unique experiences. That fascinates me. I’ve learned that problem solving isn’t about finding one “right” answer—it’s about respecting different paths and perspectives

📋 Planning

Planning is my happy place. I especially love organizing gatherings for family and friends. I can visualize every detail—the dishes, the plates, the silverware, the tables—before it even happens. That vision helps me avoid last-minute stress. I write things down, I prepare, and I make sure nothing is left out.

🚗 Driving

Driving is freedom for me. Funny enough, I didn’t start until I was 32, but once I did, I fell in love with it. I’ve driven all over my city and even in places like New York. I don’t like driving in the rain or the dark, but give me Michigan snow and I’ll get you anywhere safely. Daytime drives are my specialty, and I can pack up and go for hours with little sleep—just because I love it that much.

🌱 Working with Children & Young Adults

One of my greatest joys is guiding young people. I started a teen group in my home that ran for five summers, and we did everything you can imagine. Helping children, young adults, and women prepare for the real world is something I take seriously. It’s about equipping them with tools, confidence, and love.

What are your two favorite things to wear?

There are two things that make me feel unstoppable: my boots and my lashes.

When I slip into my boots, you can’t tell me NOTHING! The way they hug my stride, the way they make me walk with confidence—it’s a feeling I can’t explain. Sneakers or gym shoes don’t give me that same energy. Boots transform me. They make me feel sexy, powerful, and like I own every step I take.

And then there are my lashes. I don’t wear them often, but when I do, it’s a whole mood. My lashes give me that sultry, captivating look when I glance at men, but they also let me serve serious energy when I need to. They sharpen my attention, make me feel polished, and remind me that sometimes the smallest details carry the biggest impact.

Boots and lashes—two simple things, but together they unlock a version of me that’s bold, confident, and undeniably sexy.

🌿 Life Lesson: Sister Sister

I’ve always been a listener. Since I was about 10, maybe 12, I asked a million questions. I didn’t even know back then that I wanted to be a writer—I just knew I loved reading, loved stories, reading the Bible and loved the truth. Truth has always been my thing. God knows me: I’m going to tell it.

One day, out of the blue, my dad sat me down. Looking back, I think it had been on his mind for years. He told me he had a daughter before he met my mom. He was about 15. He said he saw her sometimes. I remember asking, “Well why can’t I meet her?” But my dad would shut down when I asked too many questions. He’d give me just enough to keep me interested, but never the whole story. That was him.

He told me she looked like me. That was enough to keep me dreaming. I’d go to bed thinking about her, wondering what it would be like to play with her, to see her face. I never thought he was making it up—I knew my dad. I woke up to him every day of my life. He knew me, and I knew him.

Years passed. I was about 15 or 16 when he wanted to talk about her again, he finally gave me HER mother’s name. Back then there was no internet, no cell phones, no Facebook, no Instagram. Just a name that didn’t ring a bell.

Later, when I was grown and had internet. My Sister came to my mind again. I tried to research her mom, but Dad wouldn’t tell me her name. Still, I held onto the pieces he gave me. I knew My Sisters name. Even if I didn’t know how to spell it. MY FB name is LaCrease, but MY BIRTH CERTIFICATE name is LaCreasea. My mom and dad don’t know how the a got on there, but it’s on my SS, Driver’s License and all my business. I have to use that name. Her name is Lateresa

Then one day, my dad called me: “Zee, your sister just left my apartment.” I was like, “For real, Daddy? Are you serious?” He said yes. I asked him a billion questions. I remember running to Belle Isle—my place of peace—to thank God. I cried. I knew He had answered the prayer I’d been carrying since I was 12.

He gave me her phone number and finally me and my siblings met her. I was tripping on how much she looked like my grandmother. I thought back to 1985 when my grandmother took me on a week train ride to Toronto—we had the best time. Seeing her reminding me how much she looks like grandma.

But life is life. Things slowed down. A lot of things concerning this story had me second guessing. Ups and downs came. I told God, “Okay, I’m done with this for now. When it’s time, I’ll be ready.” But one thing for sure in all of it. I KNEW WHAT MY DADDY TOLD ME WAS THE TRUTH.

After my dad passed in 2019, I heard from her again briefly. We always small talked on each other FB post from time to time, but at least I knew where she was at ALL times. I had peace. God gave me patience and understanding in this situation. I had time.

Then last week—out of nowhere—she contacted me again. She sent me a DNA list with names. I want to post it, it’s funny who all names popped up. I looked at it, and I knew EVERY single person on there. Everyone!!! I asked her what made her finally do it. She said, “I was tired of wondering.”

And that’s our story right there. We all get tired of wondering. Tired of silence. Tired of secrets. I share this because families need these conversations. Some people won’t like it, some will feel uncomfortable. I’m cool with that. Because I love truth. And I am not alone. Here are some photos of her and my niece and nephews!!!! Yeaaaaa!

Screenshot

There is another story I would like to share. I got permission from THOSE, THIS STORY BELONGS TOO. I will only share the JOY it brings me, just because its MY DAUGHTERS STORY NEISHIA.

JUST weeks before I had a stroke. Nesha got a text from her cousin telling her that someone had taken a test ** I really don’t know how those test goes**, but the names on that paper LEADS to known people and their names.

She called her dad and they had a conversation, and the first thing I ask Nesha was does she have a FB? Nesha had photos of her already in her phone. She gave me her name and when I tell you I stalked her page. LOL I was so HAPPY. MY baby has a sister now. She was excited. Not only that but Nesha is an auntie. I can hear them saying Auntie Nesha. LOL I love it.

It just amazes me how things happen. God made us all and he can pair up to be family as he wishes.

When I came home from the hospital, I didn’t return to my apartment. Instead, Nesha took me in and cared for me for over four months. She put her whole life on hold—her plans, her schooling, her dreams. She had signed up for her Master’s program, but life “lifed,” as we say, and she chose to be there for me.

During that time, she spoke with her sister over the phone, but they never met in person.

Now, I’m well, moved into my new apartment, she’s working on getting her life back and it’s time for those quiet gurls to meet!!!!! I’ll see my sister next year * she moved from Detroit* but Neshia’s sister lives right here. I’m going to let them work it out, I’m just excited on the side lines. They are both businesswomen, own their own homes, and NEED TO MAKE TIME FOR EACH OTHER.

🌸 Closing Thoughts

This story is more than just about DNA tests or family connections—it’s about God’s timing, answered prayers, and the joy of discovering new bonds. Families need these conversations, even when they’re unexpected or uncomfortable. Truth has a way of bringing healing, and joy has a way of multiplying.

And right now, joy is multiplying in my family.

Here’s a polished blog dra

🌿 Life Lesson: If Something Ever Happens

We all carry both personality and character. When life is good, we often show up in a certain way—smiling, laughing, moving through our days with ease. But what happens when life shifts? What happens when something unexpected knocks us off our feet?

If something ever happens to you—whether it’s a car accident, an illness, or a situation that leaves you homebound—you’ll quickly discover who is truly there for you. You’ll see it in the people who show up at the hospital, who bring food when you can’t cook, who send money or cards, who call or text just to check in. You’ll see it in those who sit with you when you’re lonely, who drive you to appointments, who pick up your kids from school, who wash your clothes, or who simply pray for you.

I’m not talking about being sick for a few days. I’m talking about the kind of life-altering moments that require months of recovery, daily care, or even 24-hour support. In those times, you learn who your community really is.

And here’s the truth: we are all just one accident away. One diagnosis, one unexpected event, one moment that changes everything. That’s why now—while you’re healthy, while you’re standing strong—is the time to change the way you think. Build relationships. Be present. Treat people with kindness. Because when you’re down, the people who show up are often the ones you’ve poured into, or those who are simply good-hearted enough to love without condition.

Everybody can’t do everything. But everybody can do something. Even a simple phone call or prayer matters.

I see people on Facebook airing out who didn’t show up for them, but I always wonder: who were you when life was good? Did you show up for others? Did you build a community, or did you expect one without giving?

So I say this: build yourself a community and be a community. Because one day it might be them who needs support—but tomorrow, it could be you.

Romans 12:13 ESV

Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality

*photo of my favorite nurse

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