Travel

Scuba Diving Fun in Jamaica

marcetheblogger

If you know me, you know I am far from a risk taker or an adventurer. But I have grown to just go with the flow and try things that are out of my comfort zone! So while we were in Jamaica, we decided to try different excursions, one of them being scuba diving. I honestly did not think we would be going scuba diving because my fiance is not really a fan of being in enclosed spaces and those scuba face masks are definitely enclosed! Nonetheless, he being him, suprised me and decided to eliminate ziplining and try scuba diving.

I was totally cool with the idea of scuba diving. I mean, I love the ocean and everything about it (well maybe not everything). So I felt extremely confident and brave while on the ship although the weather was starting to cool off and clouds rolled in. But when it came time to get in the water, I was definitely the last one in. My fiance, to my suprise, was in the water and seemed to be okay. I took a deep breath and made my way down the steps because the option to jump in was scary for me lol.

Once I slipped the mask on and tried to swim near the ship before receiving our remaining equipment, I felt myself going into panic mode. I was literally freaking out in my head because I felt like I was going to drown and could not breath through my mouth. At this point, I received the additional equipment and began to try it out but I freaked out! I made my way back to the steps, climbed up, and took the mask off. I began to breathe and almost quit. My fiance kept asking me to try it but in that moment I needed a break. I asked the leader of the excursion to please walk me through the process of how to breathe.

After about a minute, I regained my composure and jumped in. I moved slowly at first but then somewhat got the hang of it. We did not get to see much because the cold front came in right before it started raining. We did not last the whole hour in the water but I felt accomplished. I know I would have been upset if I had not completed the excursion.

The real fun part came after we returned to the boat. There was a party with a great DJ and great hosts. Open bar on a boat while it rained…what else could solve being cold quicker than some Jamaica rum! Thank you Chukka! Link to book your future excursion in Jamaica: https://chukka.com/book-now/book-jamaica/

Family, Travel

Statue of Liberty

marcetheblogger

I was born and raised in Paterson, NJ, just a short drive from New York City and had never visited the Statue of Liberty! Yes, believe it!! So when my fiance’s niece who was visiting from Virginia mentioned it, we decided to make it a day trip before she left. We ordered our tickets online the night before and chose the most basic option. We did not want to go inside of the statue for several reasons including not wanting to climb so many steps especially not with a 7 month old baby lol.

The morning of the trip, we (mostly me) thought we would miss our boarding time because we were running super late. I hate being late although it seems to be the trend in my life lately lol. However, when we got to Liberty State Park to catch the ferry, we picked up our tickets and were told it was fine. Thank you Statue Cruises! By the way, definitely check out the following link for the cheapest price on tickets
https://www.statuecruises.com/#/. I came across another site that was more expensive so when I did another search I was glad to save some money!

I would recommend to do this early in the day. I noticed when we got back to Liberty State Park that the line to get on the Ferry to the statue was way longer than when we arrived early in the morning. Another tip, come prepared to go through a thorough security search. We had to take off anything we had over our clothes including the baby’s clothes. It was really a stressful process, not for lack of organization but rather for us traveling with a baby. We took super long to get everything back together and on but definitely appreciate the tight security. There were also snack booths on each level of the ferry that included coffee, tea, hot chocolate, hot dogs, pretzels, and chips and sweets! We didn’t check out the museum this time around but this trip was so economical that we will definitely do it again once the weather is warmer!

The weather was absolutely perfect and the ferries in both directions were not full. Truly a delightful experience. This was a great photo opportunity and we definitely took advantage. See below for some awesome views!

Family, Mom Life

Decisions, Decisions, Decisions

marcetheblogger

Earlier this year, I met with my daughter’s teachers to discuss her academic progress. But before I dive into the details, let me tell you a little bit about my first born.

Jena’cela was born in 2008 on a cold December morning. She stole my heart after having stolen my appetite and energy for 9 months. Lol. At just 20 years old, I became a mother for the first time. There is no guide in the world that could prepare you for this role especially not at such a young age.

It was amazing watching my little girl grow. She was always so vibrant and social and her personality could light up a room. As she grew, we faced some medical issues. She had to have special shoes to help straighten her legs because she was super bowlegged. She also had baby teeth surgically removed because they rotted (way to go me smh). But no matter what she faced, she always fought through! She now has straight legs and is in a different dental phase…BRACES!

Well let’s fast forward so that I don’t make this post too long. Jena is now 10 years old and her confidence and once vibrant personality has started to decline not in all aspects of her life but definitely in school. As time has passed, the schoolwork has become so difficult for her and it is a constant struggle. I have worked with her school to get her as much as assistance as possible and the work is still proves to be too difficult for her to get at classmates’ pace.

Now back to the meeting I had with her teachers…We spoke about her progress and how she had good weeks and bad weeks. There was no consistent progress but instead it was a constant rollercoaster. They brought up the possibility of needing to have her evaluated but wanted to hold off to see if there were any changes.

In that moment, I asked, “Why wait?” I had already been seeing her struggle almost daily no matter how much I tried to help her and her motivation was just not there. Her teacher advised me that I could request to have her evaluated and in that moment I decided I had to. I didn’t discuss it with anyone, I just made the decision. Her teacher told me she would start the paperwork and would be sending it home.

Once I left the meeting, I instantly broke down into tears. I questioned myself! Where did I go wrong? Was I not attentive enough? Do I really want to do this to her?

Talking to others didn’t really help either. I got so much different feedback, I became overwhelmed. I made myself stop thinking about it for a little and in a moment sitting alone, I realized I needed to own my decision. I made the best decision in that moment for my daughter. If she does need extra help, why would I deprive her of that? I know the results could lead to stigmas but as a parent you always want what’s best for your child and I know in my heart this is it for her.

I don’t want to see my daughter keep struggling. I don’t want to see her feel sad. I don’t want her to feel embarrassment. I simply want her to get help if she needs it. School was fun for her and it is not anymore. I want to bring her back. I want my vibrant daughter back!

Let's Get Personal

Self-care

marcetheblogger

Hi All,

So last weekend, I went on a quick weekend getaway to Jamaica. It was much needed and made me realize that I have seriously been lacking in taking care of myself! It is crazy when you become so caught up with work, kids, chores, errands, and you forget about taking care of the SELF!!

Throughout my coursework these past two years, we focused on the importance of self-care and how people in the counseling profession need to care for self first. I definitely get an F on that! But today, I decided to write about it as a way to hold myself accountable.

In the past few months since my son was born I lost weight and gained weight. I am NOT where I want to be today in regards to my health or weight at all. This definitely takes a toll on my self-confidence but I know I can change it! This past week I have been eating better and eliminating snacks that are unnecessary calories. I managed to work out three times and hope to do it more often or for longer sessions.

Throughout the next few weeks, I am hoping to stick to these lifestyle changes I am making yet again! I will let you all in on my journey to being healthier and slimming down!

Family, Mom Life

Baby John Alert!

marcetheblogger

So today is the day my fiance and I finally posted our little guy to social media. I was not very happy about this at all but nonetheless it was bound to happen. I know it seems silly as we live in an age where everything seems to be on social media, but that is what I have a problem with!

I admit I was trying to be selfish with my son but with good reason. Social media can suck you in and either uplift you or bring you down. No matter how much you try not to let it affect you, it can! I was simply trying to avoid any negativity that could be given out towards my son whether direct or indirect.

My wish was to wait until he was 1 to present him to “friends” but daddy couldn’t hold on much longer and felt it went with his birthday theme this week. I really cannot be that upset so instead I embraced it and shared it.

Below you will find my 7 month old who looks exactly like his father with mom’s complexion. He has a part of my heart and makes me melt as soon as he is in my presence. He is growing everyday and is constantly exploring his surroundings. He keeps us busy but has brought joy to our family. He is truly a blessing and I am thankful for every moment I get with him.

Family, Travel

Vacation!

marcetheblogger

Hi All,

I am back from vacation and ready to share about my travels. This was our first (my fiance and I) trip without our kiddies and we chose to go to Jamaica. The trip was booked last minute so no chance for savings but we had an awesome time.

We had to get minor details figured out before taking our trip including babysitters for our kids and dog! Thanks to my mom and dad for always being super helpful and of course my sister who did not go crazy with a house full of kids this past weekend.

Below are some pictures to enjoy! I will be posting more details in future posts!

Let's Get Personal

2019 Goals

marcetheblogger

When I take breaks at work, I travel with my planner from Pretty Simple Planner and 2019 Goals Notebook courtesy of the Leadership Certificate Program at Montclair State University. I love writing to-do lists and find joy crossing items off of my list. This year instead of making verbal resolutions, I decided to write my goals in a notebook. I gave each goal it’s own page and make notes when I make progress towards each of them or I cross off items listed below the goal that I complete. It makes me feel accomplished and at the end of the year I can see what I have accomplished and hold myself accountable for those I may not complete. I am optimistic but also a realist and truth is some goals might have to wait because we all know life happens.

Food

Cooking Attempt!

marcetheblogger

Chicken Tortilla Soup!! I don’t typically cook because let’s face it, I am NOT a fan but I gave this recipe a try. My director gifted the department with different soup recipes for the holidays and I thought it was the cutest thing ever!!

This recipe was super easy and did not take much time which was perfect for me since I am no expert in cooking. I did the simple version since I didn’t have any chicken or canned beans.

Final Verdict: I must say both myself and my fiancé really enjoyed this! It was delicious and def a meal I will make again in the future!

Family, Mom Life

YAY for Delayed Openings!

marcetheblogger

One of the perks I have enjoyed at my current job is delayed openings! They give me a little extra time in the morning to enjoy breakfast and have longer morning chats with my oldest child. This girl is my world and was my whole world up until I had my son. She changed my life. I love watching her grow although it has been challenging at times. Sometimes when I hear her speak I hear myself because of the vocabulary she uses. It’s true kids really do follow their lead. I love being this little girl’s mom and can not wait to see her be all that she can be.

Posts

Support FRANCDPRVL Clothing Line

marcetheblogger

One of my goals this year was to support more of my friends’ small businesses.

My 1st Support Small Business feature is the fashionable Francois Duperval Clothing Line. Available for men and women featuring bottoms, tanks, crop tops, hoodies, jackets, and more!

Click the link for more styles: https://www.francoisduperval.com/.

You can also find them on Instagram: @francdprvl