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The Sun and Her Flowers

November 8, 2022August 15, 2025JuliaLeave a comment

Rupi Kaur is an Indian-born Canadian poet who captured much attention with her first book titled “Milk and Honey” which was released November 2014. I remember friends mentioning the book to me, but I sadly did not have much time for leisure reading at the time. Anyway, fast forward three years later and lo and behold while frivolously scrolling through kindle on a beautify fall day I stumble across Rupi’s recent release titled “The Sun and Her Flowers”. The book was featured in the free download section, so I decided to give it a read. The Sun and Here Flowers is about Rupi’s journey and growth in finding love within herself. Her journey is divided into 5 chapters titled: wilting, falling, rooting, rising and blooming.

Roe vs Wade Overturned

June 26, 2022JuliaLeave a comment

If you had asked me five years ago if abortion rights would eventually become unconstitutional, I would have answered with a strong “No”. I attended the Woman’s March on Washington six years ago and although the overall premises of the march was to advocate for policies ensuring women’s rights remained, the thought of women losing access to abortion still seemed unimaginable. Yet, six years later here we are.

When I first heard the SCOTUS had overturned Roe vs Wade, I felt a sense of hopelessness. This later turned into sadness and then anger. “How dare someone else feel they have the right to tell ME or any other woman what she must do with HER body” “Who do these WHITE men think they are.” As I sat on my bed processing my emotions I wondered if my grandmother, and the many women before her, felt similar emotions living during a pre-Roe era. A feeling of being seen, but not heard. A feeling of knowing you do not have autonomy over your body. Deciding whether or not to risk your life and birth a child was not your choice, but the choice of others and this feels me with much sadness, but above all disappointment.

Done with didactic year and off to clinicals!!!

May 23, 2022JuliaLeave a comment

Hello beautiful people! I’m semi-back from under the rock I’ve been hiding and it feels good to be back in the world lol. This past week I officially finished my didactic year of PA school!!! As I write this blogpost, I have a huge grin across my face. It feels me with such joy to know I am officially done and will now be off to seeing patients. PA school, by far, has been one of the hardest things I have done in my life. The late nights, deprived sleep, imposter syndrome and constant stress, are a few of the challenges that come with this journey. However, despite the challenge I am thankful to be here because I worked so hard to get here. I remember nights praying for this, praying for an interview, an opportunity, an acceptance, and here I am. Thank you God!!!

For those on this journey do not give up. Keep faith and continue putting in the work, you will be rewarded. Okay enough of my soapbox lol.

Anyway I wanted to share a few of my memories. #survivingandthriving #blessed

Stay blessed. Remember, you are loved ❤️

Ziplining

August 15, 2021Julia

This past weekend I went ziplining! It was somewhat spur of the moment. A friend mentioned they were going for their birthday, and I decided to tag along. I’m glad I did because I had a lot of fun and talk about a great way to start my summer vacation. I got to meet some cool people and see the beautiful view of the forest. As someone who struggles with anxiety, I am constantly worrying about the future or stressing over past mishaps. However, I am learning to live in the present moment. This experience reminded me of this. Anyway, I’m glad I got to cross something off my bucket list and can’t wait for my next adventure!

Stay blessed. Remember, you are loved ❤️

Why the Physician Assistant Higher Education Modernization Act of 2021 should pass

July 25, 2021October 5, 2025JuliaLeave a comment

The Physician Assistant Higher Education Modernization Act of 2021 (HR 2274) was introduced to the House of Representatives on March 29, 2021, by California’s 37^th district representative, Karen Bass. The bill aims to amend the Higher Education Act of 1965 to expand education opportunities for physician assistant students and physician assistants. Some advantages of HR 2274 include (1.) increasing Subsidized Stafford Loan (SSL) limits and loan forgiveness programs (2.) increasing grants awarded to historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and Hispanic programs (3.) increasing enrollment of minorities and students from rural areas in PA programs and postbaccalaureate PA programs.

Over the years the cost of higher education has increased while salaries have remained stagnant. Millions of Americans have student debt and the number continues to rise with minorities and women being disproportionally affected¹. Tuition for PA programs continue to increase with tuitions ranging between $30,000 to over 120,000. Many PA students fund their education with student loans, specifically federal aid. Currently graduate students can apply for the Unsubsidized Stafford Loan (USL) which caps at $65,000² which is less than what most PA programs cost. If a student needs additional aid, they can apply for the GradPlus Loan which is a federal loan that requires a passed credit check. To my knowledge this is a common route students take, but for students who do not qualify private loans are the next option. Thus, increasing the SSL limits would allow students to receive loans with no or lower interest rates and forgo high interest rates that come with private loans. Furthermore, expansion of loan forgiveness programs will grant more students the ability to take advantage of these programs and minimize their education debt.

“Be loyal, be truthful, be emotional…”✨

November 1, 2019January 24, 2024Julia

“…to be fully known and truly loved…”

September 1, 2019October 12, 2025Julia

Please Don’t Touch My Hair

July 1, 2019February 14, 2024Julia

Braids, curls, straight why are you all in my space
All in my space when you haven’t even asked me my name
All in my space, I pull away confusion clouds your face
Curiosity you claim, I see
Given my 3C texture isn’t seen often in mainstream
Objectification of our bodies throughout history
Beginning with the enslavement of my African ancestries
Are what fuels your entitlement mentality
“it’s just hair” you utter disregarding my request
But permission you were not granted
Now I am asking you politely
Next time I might not take your action so lightly
And you can save all that “angry black woman” bullshit perpetuated by society
Please DON’T touch my hair!

Reminiscing: Top Wedding Songs

June 1, 2019Julia

I made this list over 8 years when my views of relationships and marriage were quite different. My views since have changed and are constantly changing, but these songs will be dedicated to my husband and a must at my wedding!💕✨

If This World Were Mine—Cheryl Lynn and Luther Vandross
I Wanna Luv You—Donell Jones
Am I Dreaming—Ol Skool ft. Xscape and Keith Sweat
Robbin in the Sky—Intro
Love—Musiq Soulchild
You—Jesse Powell
My First Love—Avant

What I Learned After Being Cheated On

May 1, 2019October 5, 2025JuliaLeave a comment

I have never really been the type of person who takes pleasure in dating multiple men simultaneously. I learned at an early age I was never good at it and frankly found it exhausting. It’s hard enough keeping up with the demands of one man let alone two, three or more lol. Plus, I would start to feel guilty knowing I was leading someone on. However, I learned early on not everyone viewed dating like this and witnessed the outcomes of unfaithfulness my loved ones experienced. To avoid similar experiences I ensured to date men who like myself believed in commitment and monogamy. Sadly, I later found myself falling into a statistic that our society has morphed into normality, cheating, and was cheated on. Going though that experience taught me a lot. Okay, okay yes, I could have done without the heartache, but I am thankful for my growth. The experience of being cheated on has taught me a few things which I would like to share.

Hello 30s!

January 25, 2019Julia

Last week was my 30th birthday and prior to my birthday I was filled with a mix of emotions. The day before my birthday ended with me sending out a mass text to my closes friends that read :

PSA please refrain from all #dirty30, #30 or anything else that’s not #twentyFine if I post anything on social medial tomorrow. I’m not ready to accept the fact I’ll be 30 (sad face emoji) so please don’t mention it to the world. Thank you (smiley face emoji).

Talk about struggling with accepting the fact. Anyway, a week later and I’m doing much better 🙂 30 isn’t so bad after all lol. No, but for real I am ready for the blessings my 30s will bring as well as the challenges. I went though a lot in my 20s, from losing my grandfather, watching my mother become homeless after losing her house, struggling financially, to having a health scare. But with all the challenges I faced in my 20s, I had many blessings, such as graduating from undergrad. I remember it like yesterday, checking my final grade to the one summer class I was taking, Spanish. I didn’t think I was going to pass. When I saw that passing grade, I stared crying. I remember I called my mom to tell her and was crying on the phone lol. In my 20s I graduated from graduate school, developed a spiritual relationship with Christ, witnessed the birth of my niece, moved to a new state, bought my first “non-bucket” car, and traveled out of the country. My 20s were truly a period of growth and I feel I am equipped to take on the challenges my 30s will bring, but above all I am ready to embrace all the blessings! But before closing this chapter, here are a few things I would tell my 20 something self as I reflect.

Can Men And Women Just Be Friends

November 1, 2018Julia

Harry: Because no man can be friends with a woman that he finds attractive. He always wants to have sex with her.
Sally: So, you’re saying that a man can be friends with a woman he finds unattractive?
Harry: No, you pretty much want to nail ’em too.
Sally: What if they don’t want to have sex with you?
Harry: Doesn’t matter because the sex thing is already out there so the friendship is ultimately doomed and that is the end of the story.
Sally: Well, I guess we’re not going to be friends then.
Harry: Guess not.

If you don’t know where the above dialect comes from I suggest you get your life. No seriously, stop reading and get your life lol. Okay, I’ll give you a pass this time, but you get the side eye. The dialect is from the movie When Harry Met Sally one of my favorites❤ and an absolute romantic comedy classic.

Anyway, Harry had an interesting. If we remove religion from the discussion, to keep it neutral for argument purposes, and take on a science perspective he makes some interesting points.

Lost Summer Nights

October 8, 2018May 11, 2025Julia

He said he loves the way I taste
I arch my back and whisper “ I know”
His lips kiss my hidden lips
Ripples travel down my spine
One vertebra at a time
A familiar love of summer nights
Buried between my thighs
Brown butter glazed in coconut oil with a hint of lavender
How long can I endure this pleasure
Pure euphoria as my body loses control
Butterflies dance gracefully to the sound of my soul
I ask them to please never abandon me

Soulmates – To Settle or Not To Settle

September 1, 2018August 25, 2025Julia5 Comments

I have never been a person to believe in soulmates. To be frank, I find the idea of “the one” to be very limiting. You mean to tell me there is only ONE person that’s THE person? The concept eliminates the luxury of options, instead leaving you with one option –ONE soulmate. Talk about stressful! Plus, a sista has always been a bit cynical regarding soulmates because I have experienced men thinking I was “the one” and none of those relationships worked out.

It’s as if believing you should have this euphoric undeniable bond with a person could be self-destructive when the relationship encounters problems.

However, I recently had a conversation with a friend who I shall call Matt. Matt had a pretty different view on what a soulmate was. His outlook was this:

Your soulmate is the person you choose to fight for, regardless of the tough times the relationship encounters, opposed to giving up. In contrast, non soulmates give up on the relationship. Even if at some point non soulmates did fight for their relationship, the end result would be them calling it quits. Hence, indicating they weren’t soulmates.

Travel: New Orleans

August 1, 2018January 24, 2024Julia

Last month I had the pleasure of traveling to New Orleans for the Essence Festival for an annual girls’ trip. This was my second time traveling to NOLA and I was once again remined why I absolutely love the city. From the vibrant music that touches your soul to the colorful architecture NOLA is a city that radiates an irresistible energy and I find this captivating given the adversity the city has endured.

My weekend began with me pulling up to a magenta duplex coated in Christmas lights showcasing “Welcome to New Orleans”. After a seven-hour drive, I was beyond excited to have finally reached my destination. I quickly grabbed my luggage and made my way up to the front door anticipating the weekend adventures soon to come. Immediately, as I walked through the front door, I was graced with the usual greeting ritual from my friends including celebratory shouts and friends dancing as I entered the unit. Laughter filled the air as team certified baddies was back in action. With no time to spare I quickly claimed my corner side of the bed and my number in line for the shower. Let the festivities begin!

To Be Young Again

July 1, 2018JuliaLeave a comment

Today while going through an old computer I stumbled across some writings from high school and decided to share. The nostalgia that came along with looking back at old poems. I can remember the emotions I felt during this time which inspired these pieces. I clearly was going through something, ooh to be a young again.💕

My addiction
I\’m addicted to his swag
His style
His smile
I\’m loving the way he laughs
He keeps me on a natural high
Trust, the truth I will never hide
I love the way he thinks
His way of thought is new to me
Sexy in all ways
Beautiful is what I\’m called
That\’s how I begin my days
He treats me like a queen
Never disrespecting me
He\’s my addiction
Always causing me to give in
Positive energy is what I need
And yes that\’s what this new one gives to me
Sometimes friends….other times lovers….but no matter what the title is he remains my addiction.

Love
Once in love with my first
Remembering the day our eyes connected
One year and one month on the 25th
But a new love has entered that must be objected
So much in common since grade eight
Comfort it brings throughout my day
Laughter this love causes, so we relate
A crossroad I am faced with not knowing which way
My old love still loves the way I once did
If knowing my new feelings crushed it would be
One love, fare well I must bid
Old, new not sure which one is the one for me

My PA Journey – Why I Chose PA?

May 8, 2018JuliaLeave a comment

Hello beautiful people!! So yesterday I asked one of the doctors I once worked with if he would be willing to write me a letter of recommendation for PA school. Anyone who knows me well knows I absolutely hate having to ask for a LOR. For some reason I always feel like I\’m a burden, but that\’s clearly my own hang-up I’m going to have to learn to get over. All week I had been gearing up to ask. Should I text or email, what should I say, how long should it be…. lol needless questions that caused me much anxiety. Anyway I finally sent the text and was ecstatic when he replied and said yes. Though, he did have a question for me

— Why did you go from Physician to PA to teaching to Public health, and back to PA?

I wasn’t expecting this question, but it got me thinking. The short response is I chose PA because I want to play an active role in reducing health disparities with marginalized groups, working primarily in primary care and substance abuse. However, this was not always my purpose and in fact my life has been a journey leading me to where God intends for me to be.

Too Woke

May 1, 2018Julia

I recently was getting to know this guy, you know the beginning phase of dating/courting where you’re still trying to figure out if you even really like the person. Anyway, he seemed like a cool down to earth dude. We would intermittently text, talk on the phone, went on a few dates. Well after about date number five I realized I wasn’t feeling him. I didn’t know exactly why I was no longer interested, but something just wasn’t clicking. “He’s too serious” “He’s too loud” “He’s too indecisive”. A Sista just could not put her finger on what it was, and it was bothering me because he was a good catch. Then randomly, amidst cleaning my kitchen, it dawned on me. Aha! He’s too woke.

Now don’t get it twisted. I consider myself woke and love a man that is conscious of social injustice happening within communities especially communities of color. I’m all for discussing the unyielding justice systems oppression of black men and women. However, I have learned too much wokeness is EXHAUSTING and to be frank, depressing. My point is, I’m not trying to be woke ALL the time. I like to consider myself an 80:20 type of gal. Meaning I’m about 80% woke and 20 % unwoke and when a sista is unwoke she is snoozzzzing.

Like, hit that alarm five times type of unwoke
crust in my eyes type of unwoke
panties and no bra type of unwoke
REM sleep type of unwoke

When I’m unwoke I’m trying to listen to some trap music, watch my ratchet shows and throw that ass in a circle on the dance floor one time.
You catch my drift lol.

Being unwoke is a way for me to escape reality because lord knows once I leave my apartment and “step into the world” I will constantly be reminded of my blackness. Hearing about deaths of innocent black men, women and children, dealing with daily racial microaggressions, reading about the corrupt criminal justice system, etc. after awhile these things take a toll on your spirit. I like to distance myself from all the chaos in the world and recharge and when I\’m recharging sometimes I\’m UNWOKE. So yeah I had to let him go.

Stay blessed. Remember, you are loved ❤️

More on Trumps Executive Order

March 3, 2017January 23, 2024JuliaLeave a comment

So much has been happening in current news regarding the travel ban. I think it’s important to question who should be considered a refugee and we as a country should question political policies that make it difficult for those seeking refugee asylum, such as Trumps recent executive order suspending the US Refugee Admissions Program for 120 days. Refugees are often placed in the category of migrants, however, many of these individuals are fleeing their countries due to substantial oppression. Refugees unlike migrants are trying to escape unjust political treatment and escapee conditions where they are explicitly excluded from their nation. Yes, refugees choose to flee their home countries, but many choose out of fear for their lives and Trumps executive order goes against international law. Policies such as the 1951 Geneva Convention and the continuing application of the 1961 Protocol [1] address the status of refuges and were adopted by the US. Meaning the US would comply, meaning Trumps executive order is in violation of this agreement.

The Meme That Led To More

February 4, 2017January 23, 2024JuliaLeave a comment

Since taking office President Trump has delayed no time in exercising his political power and has been signing executive orders left and right. One executive order that has caused a lot of controversy is Trumps travel ban which people are calling a Muslim ban. CNN reported the travel ban,

“Bars all persons from certain ‘terror-prone’ countries from entering the United States for 90 days and suspends the US Refugee Admissions Program for 120 days until it is reinstated ‘only for nationals of countries for whom’ members of Trump’s Cabinet deem can be properly vetted.”

The “terror-prone” countries the ban is referring to include seven majority Muslim countries – Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen. The rational given by the Trump administration is that the ban will keep America safer from terrorism. Many Americans throughout the country protested in response to the ban. Citizens where NOT playing regarding this issue which one company, Uber, found out the hard way. Uber found itself in a twitter trending topic frenzy resulting in a boycott against the company. Lets just say things got real, REAL QUICK, for the CEO of Uber, Travis Kalanick.

More Than Women’s Rights -Women’s March On Washington

January 26, 2017September 1, 2025Julia5 Comments

This past weekend I attended the Women’s March on Washington in Washington DC and what I initially thought was a march about women’s rights I quickly discovered was about much more.

What will go down in history as the largest inauguration protest, the Women’s March on Washington had an estimated 2.6 million protesters worldwide who collectively voiced their concerns regarding women’s rights and the rights of other marginalized communities that many fear may be in danger under the new Trump Administration. The march took place January 21, 2017 at 1PM. Prior to the march was a rally that included various speakers and performers. In Washington DC alone it was estimated that nearly 500,000 protesters marched across the National Mall wearing pink knitted beanies with pussy cat ears chanting rhymes, such as “hey hey ho ho Donald Trump has got to go” or “we need a leader not a creepy tweeter” and carrying anti-Trump signs. If there was one thing everyone had in common it was their disapproval of President Trump who had been president for less than 24 hours. Talk about a way to begin the first day on the job.