As the clock strikes midnight, it's out with the old and in with the new, and there is an undeniable sense of anticipation and hope in the air. The holiday season is a time for family, love, and celebration, and this year was no exception. In this blog post, we are diving into this year's heartwarming experiences of spending time with loved ones, eating good food, engaging in meaningful conversations, and preparing for an unforgettable New Year's Eve party. Join me as I recount the joy, love, and excitement that filled my heart as I welcomed 2024 with my family and friends.

Reconnecting with Family:

During the holiday, my family typically comes together, and this year was particularly special as family members flew in from Chicago, Jersey, and Atlanta to bring in the new year with us as I hosted my last hoorah before departing to Germany. The joy of being together with my husband, son, dad, little brother, cousins, and close friends, laughter echoed through the house as we caught up on each other's lives and reminisced about cherished memories. The warmth of these connections filled our hearts with gratitude and reminded us of the importance of relationships and family bonds.

Chef Toya:

A significant highlight of the holiday season is the food that brings everyone together. I knew I needed some blessed hands to cater for this special event, so I tapped one of my best girls, Chef Toya, to get the menu right. We catered a selection of meat and cheeses from Wegman's, and Toya made crab dip and crackers for starters. Chef Toya threw down on the main course, cooking baked macaroni and cheese, candied yams, cabbage, meatballs, grilled salmon, and Hawaiian rolls on the side 😋. Each bite was a celebration of love and togetherness. We had an assortment of chocolates, cupcakes, and hard candy for the sweet fix after.  

Let's Talk:

As family arrived in town, we mingled at the house throughout the week, providing the perfect backdrop for engaging conversations. As we gathered around the dinner table or sat by the fireplace, we shared our dreams, aspirations, and reflections on the year as it seemed to fly by. I love deep conversation because it provokes thought and laughter and reveals wisdom and heartfelt advice. I thrive in this space because I look up to, love, and respect the people in my circle because they teach me so much. From discussing personal achievements to contemplating the world's challenges, we found joy in one another and exchanging ideas. I am still overflowing!

Party Preparations:

As the days drew closer to New Year's Eve, a few brilliant minds gathered to party prep and begin the transformation of our home into a vibrant and festive space. The theme was A Blush & Bubbles New Year's Eve.  The color scheme was blush, silver, and gold, so we decorated the living room with balloons with silver streamers, a grand 2024 and Happy New Year's signage, and a balloon centerpiece over the dining room light. I solicited the girls to help me plan the details and asked my little brother to be game master for the evening, meticulously planning to ensure an unforgettable celebration. The preparations became a fun shared experience that brought us closer together.

Welcoming 2024:

Finally, the moment arrived. We headed to the rooftop to begin our countdown; we raised our glasses, filled with hope and excitement for the year ahead. We circled the firepit, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 HAPPY NEW YEAR! We erupted with cheers, hugs, and kisses as we bid farewell to the past and embraced the future. The joy and love that filled our hearts were a testament to our strong bonds and the optimism accompanying new beginnings. We welcomed 2024 with open arms, knowing that we had the support and love of our family to navigate whatever challenges and triumphs the year may bring. Check out the holiday VLOG here to share in these moments.

In The End:

This holiday season was a time of reflection, gratitude, and celebration. I am overflowing with love, joy, and peace as I remember this epic holiday season and walk into 2024, remembering these precious moments with our loved ones. May the spirit of togetherness and the memories we created during this holiday season inspire and uplift us throughout the year ahead. Here's to a remarkable 2024!