If you’ve read my last couple of posts, you probably noticed a shift—a softer tone, a more reflective vibe, and a lot of real talk. That wasn’t by accident. Without even fully realizing it, I’ve started a new series called The Almost Thirty Diaries, and I’m so excited (and slightly nervous) to invite you into this space with me.
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This series is exactly what it sounds like: a diary-style, heart-on-my-sleeve documentation of everything I’m feeling, fearing, celebrating, and figuring out as I approach the big 3-0.

It’s not just about age.
It’s about transition.
It’s about growth.
It’s about the pressure to have everything figured out and the freedom to admit that I don’t.
It’s about identity, softness, love, regret, laughter, burnout, dating apps, God, becoming her, and still crying in the car sometimes.

I want this to be real.
Like, “am I the only one who feels this way?” kind of real.
Like, “did she read my journal?” kind of real.

Because I know I’m not the only one lying awake some nights wondering:

• Am I where I’m supposed to be?
• Is love still out there for me?
• Is this dream still worth chasing?
• Why do I feel behind when I’ve already done so much?

And if you’re feeling those things too—then this is for you.
This is for us.
We’re going to talk about it all.
The chaos. The clarity. The confidence. The confusion.
And we’re going to walk into this next chapter together—not perfectly, but with intention.


So if you’ve ever felt like you’re in a weird in-between space—no longer your early-twenties self but not quite the person you thought you’d be by 30—pull up a seat. This is your sign to slow down, reflect, laugh a little, cry a little, and grow with me.


Subscribe to my blog so you never miss a post.
Comment, share, and tag your friends—because I know I’m not the only one going through this.
Let’s build a little community around being almost thirty and figuring it out together.


We don’t have to be perfect.
We just have to be honest.
And I promise—I’ll go first.

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There’s a male fitness coach going viral right now for his 3 AM/4 AM morning routine. Some are calling it unnecessary. Others are calling it performance. Some say, “He’s just doing it for views,” while others are inspired by the discipline. But it made me stop and ask myself: Are these the habits of a high-performing, career-driven adult?


And if not exactly that, then what is?


I ask because once upon a time—back in high school—I was incredibly organized. I had a planner. I would write out my after-school routine by the hour. My mom used to be so impressed with how structured I was. It gave me a sense of control, clarity, and direction.


But somewhere along the way, I drifted. Life got busy. Now, most days I operate off of a mental planner, which sounds functional… until it’s not. I’ll have 12 things floating in my brain and then wonder why I feel mentally exhausted. Lately I’ve been thinking, Is it time to get back to the physical planner? Or even use my digital calendar with alerts to gently nudge me back into rhythm?


What does high-performance look like when you’re not just managing tasks—but managing identities?


For those of you who don’t know, I wear several hats:
• I’m a licensed realtor.
• A licensed independent travel advisor.
• The daughter of a guru book publisher and a guru trucking entrepreneur.
• A big sister. A granddaughter. A mentor. A friend.


I’m proud of all the roles I play. I see myself as someone who can do it all—but lately, I’ve been asking, Can I do it all well? And what does “well” even mean to me now?


Is it meal prepping on Sundays and laying out my outfits for the week?
Is it drinking water, staying moisturized, and scheduling therapy like I schedule meetings?
Is it finding a church home? Saying no more often? Prioritizing a weekly FaceTime with my grandma?


Does “high-performing” have to mean hyper-productive? Or can it mean emotionally available? Spiritually grounded? Physically nourished?


I’ve started building out a weekly to-do list again—nothing fancy, just small, consistent wins. And I have to admit, checking off each item gives me a mini sense of accomplishment. But still, I wonder: Is structure the secret to freedom? Or does too much planning box us in?


Being on the cusp of 30 is such a weird and beautiful space. It feels like a bridge between who I thought I would be and who I still have time to become. I want to use this time wisely—but what does “wise” even look like now? Is it in the hustle? Or is it in the rest?


And so, I ask the question again: What are the habits of high-performing adults?


Is it waking up at 3 AM to train, or is it giving yourself grace when you sleep in?
Is it hitting career goals, or is it calling your siblings back and making space for joy?


I don’t have all the answers—but maybe that’s the point. Maybe the power isn’t in having it all figured out, but in asking the right questions, and building a life that feels aligned with the answers we uncover along the way.
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Recently, I found myself watching The Cheetah Girls as an adult, and it brought back a flood of memories and emotions that I hadn’t tapped into in years. The child version of me absolutely adored the Cheetah Girls. Some of my fondest memories are from the times I spent at my late grandma’s house, dancing and singing with my cousins. We would debate who got to sing which part and who would be which Cheetah Girl. Those moments were pure magic—carefree, joyful, and filled with a sense of empowerment that only The Cheetah Girls could bring.
The Cheetah Girls were more than just a fictional girl group to us. They represented strength, sisterhood, and the idea that you could be fierce, fabulous, and unstoppable no matter where you came from. They were such good role models for young girls, showing us that we didn’t have to fit into any mold to be powerful. Each Cheetah Girl was unique, with her own style, dreams, and personality, yet they all came together to support one another and chase their goals. They taught us the importance of friendship, believing in ourselves, and standing up for what we love.
The Cheetah Girls showed us that being a Cheetah Girl wasn’t about the clothes you wore or the way you looked; it was about what was in your heart. “You're a cheetah girl because of who you are, and what's in your heart... And you're a pure Cheetah Girl, por la vida.” These words were more than just a line from the movie—they were a mantra that reminded us to stay true to ourselves and to the bond we shared as friends and family.
But as I grew older, I found myself distancing from the cheetah print and all it represented. It seemed like a relic of my childhood, something I needed to leave behind as I navigated the complexities of adulthood. I forgot what it meant to be a Cheetah Girl, to embrace that spirit of being the fastest and fiercest feline in the jungle. In the hustle and bustle of adult life, I lost touch with the girl who danced without a care in the world, who believed she could conquer anything with a little bit of sparkle and a whole lot of heart.
Watching The Cheetah Girls again, I realized how much I missed that version of myself—the one who didn’t wait around for anyone to rescue her. The song “Cinderella” was such a powerful anthem back then, and its message resonates even more with me now:

"I Don't wanna be like Cinderella
Sitting in a dark, cold, dusty cellar (oh, no, ooh)
Waiting for somebody to come and set me free (come and set me free)
I don't wanna be like someone waiting (oh no)
For a handsome prince to come and save me
On, I will survive, I know somebody's on my side
Don't wanna depend on no one else
I'd rather rescue myself."

These lyrics remind me of the strength I’ve always had within me. I don’t need to wait for someone else to save me; I have the power to rescue myself, to take charge of my own destiny. The Cheetah Girls taught us that we don’t have to wait for life to happen to us—we have the power to make our dreams come true, to stand strong in who we are, and to support one another along the way.

As I reflect on where I am now, I realize that I want to get back to that girl who believed she could do anything. I want to reconnect with the most authentic version of myself—the Cheetah Girl who is fierce, unstoppable, and unapologetically herself. It’s time to reclaim that cheetah print, to wear it proudly, not just as a fashion statement, but as a symbol of everything it means to be a Cheetah Girl.
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So, here’s to rediscovering that inner Cheetah Girl, to embracing the strength, the spirit, and the sisterhood that The Cheetah Girls stood for. And here’s to never forgetting that we’re all pure Cheetah Girls, por la vida.

There’s something extraordinary about the number 8:28 for me. It’s more than just a date—it’s a divine connection, a gentle reminder from God that my life is unfolding exactly as it should, according to His purpose. You see, I was born on August 28th, and as I’ve journeyed through life, Romans 8:28 has become a guiding scripture for me: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
This verse has woven itself into the fabric of my life in the most remarkable ways. I can’t even count how many times I’ve glanced at a clock and seen 8:28 staring back at me, or when I’ve been out shopping, and the total comes to $8.28. It’s as if God is gently nudging me, reminding me that I’m on the right path, that everything is unfolding according to His perfect plan.

One day, while scrolling through my Bible app, I came across a devotional plan titled "8:28." Of course, I had to click it—I knew it was meant for me. What I didn’t realize was how transformative that devotional would be. It wasn’t just a daily reading; it was a life-changing experience that I’ve revisited time and time again.

There’s a certain calmness that washes over me when I reflect on Romans 8:28. It’s a peace that comes from knowing that all things—every joy, every challenge, every unexpected twist—are working together for good. My steps are already ordered by God, and He knows exactly what I will do long before I do it. This knowledge has given me a profound sense of calm, a reassurance that I don’t have to worry about what’s ahead. It’s all 8:28.

As I turn 29 and embrace the final year of my 20s, I’m filled with both excitement and reflection. This past decade has been a journey of growth, discovery, and self-acceptance. I’ve learned so much about who I am and what I’m called to do. I’ve faced challenges that have tested my faith, but I’ve also experienced incredible blessings that have affirmed God’s purpose for my life.

The upcoming year feels like a beautiful culmination of everything I’ve experienced so far. It’s a time to fully embrace who I’ve become while remaining open to the new lessons and adventures that await. I’m stepping into this year with a heart full of gratitude, knowing that God’s 8:28 promise continues to guide me.
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This year, I’m focusing on living with intention, cherishing the moments that matter most, and continuing to trust that God’s plan for me is greater than anything I could imagine. I’m ready to walk confidently into the future, knowing that everything is working together for good. This is my 8:28 journey, and as I turn 29, I’m embracing it wholeheartedly, with faith, hope, and an unwavering trust in God’s plan.

Have y’all ever heard of digital Nomads?
 
The term "digital nomad" originated from the combination of "digital" referring to the use of technology and "nomad" indicating a lifestyle of constant movement and exploration. Digital nomads typically work in fields that allow for remote work, such as freelance writing, web development, graphic design, consulting, digital marketing, and online entrepreneurship. Imagine someone you see on social media constantly traveling, seems their money never runs out and you have no idea what they do.
 
This morning, I asked my TikTok Audience this question:
If you had a lucrative travel business and you could work from anywhere in the world as long as you had Wi-Fi, where would you work from?
 
My personal answer to this is Why limit yourself?
 
As the heir to a successful and lucrative publishing company, Sophisticated Press, I have had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the pioneering spirit and global impact of my mother's visionary work. Early on, she brought me into the fold, allowing me to immerse myself in the inner workings of the publishing industry and witness the unparalleled level of service she provided to clients around the world.

Sophisticated Press isn't just a publishing company—it's a testament to my mother's dedication, expertise, and relentless pursuit of excellence. Serving high-level executives and celebrities, most of whom are located far beyond the confines of Chicago, she has truly become a digital nomad in her own right, leveraging technology to transcend geographical boundaries and deliver exceptional results to her discerning clientele.
 
So let me set the stage by saying that everything I learned and everything I do was first seen done by my mother.


Here’s how I am making the digital Nomad Lifestyle work for me As a passionate entrepreneur, I've always believed in the power of freedom and flexibility when it comes to shaping both my career and my lifestyle. Through my real estate business and travel agency, I've found a way to not only sustain myself financially but also to thrive in a lifestyle that allows me to work from anywhere, travel often, and truly enjoy life to the fullest.
 
Real Estate Entrepreneurship: Building Wealth and Creating Opportunities
My journey as a digital nomad began with my real estate business. By leveraging technology and embracing remote work practices, I've been able to manage my real estate investments and transactions from anywhere in the world. Whether I'm scouting properties, negotiating deals, or managing client relationships, the flexibility of my real estate business allows me to stay connected and productive no matter where my travels take me.

Travel Agency Ventures: Curating Experiences and Inspiring Wanderlust
But why stop at real estate when there's a whole world waiting to be explored? That's where my travel agency comes in. Through my agency, I've been able to channel my passion for travel into a thriving business, helping others discover the joys of exploration and adventure. From crafting bespoke itineraries to sharing insider tips and recommendations, my travel agency allows me to inspire wanderlust and create unforgettable experiences for my clients—all while living out my own travel dreams.

Freedom and Flexibility: Embracing the Nomadic Lifestyle
What I love most about being a digital nomad is the freedom and flexibility it affords me. Whether I'm working from a bustling cafe in Barcelona, a serene beach in Bali, or a cozy cabin in the mountains, I have the autonomy to design my ideal workspace and schedule. This level of flexibility not only enhances my productivity and creativity but also allows me to fully immerse myself in the destinations I visit, experiencing new cultures, cuisines, and adventures along the way.

Embracing Life to the Fullest: Balancing Work and Play
But it's not all about work. One of the greatest joys of the digital nomad lifestyle is the ability to prioritize experiences and enjoyment. Whether it's navigating the vibrant souks of Dubai, immersing myself in the bustling night bazaars of New Zealand alongside my best friend Chris, or indulging in the tranquil beauty of California's vineyards with my aunt Kim, each adventure reminds me of life's exquisite richness. By harmonizing my professional pursuits with these enriching experiences, I've crafted a life that resonates with both financial success and profound personal fulfillment.

You can do the same thing as me and break free from the rat race and live your life on your own terms. I want to build a team of likeminded individuals who want to travel abroad far and wide while earning income. Take this short one minute survey and ask your self how being a travel agent can benefit you?
 
I look forward to your answers and I will be in contact soon.