Life will always throw curveballs your way. There may be moments when you find yourself questioning so much, but the first five months of 2026 have made one thing very clear to me: staying true to who I am matters most. Leading with a loving heart and radiating good energy, love, happiness, and joy has been at the center of my journey, and I have fully embraced it. This month brought quality time with loved ones, endless laughter, and the opportunity to meet new people with genuine energy who appreciate me for exactly who I am.

In this day and age, I truly appreciate how proud my Mom is of me. Being called “Mini Massa” never fails to make me smile. I got to spend quality time with her in Georgia, and of course, I was spoiled with nothing but amazing Liberian food. She made sure to prepare all my favorites, palm butter, cassava leaves, potato greens, okra sauce, cornbread, shortbread, and so much more. Every meal felt like a reminder of home, love, and family.

Places Visited This Month

Chauncy’s Kitchen

Chauncy’s Kitchen is owned by a Liberian chef based in Stone Mountain, Georgia. I was introduced to this hidden gem by a good friend whose recommendation did not disappoint. Chauncy’s culinary talent has earned him opportunities to cook for icons such as President Obama and Kendrick Lamar, and it’s easy to see why. His ability to reimagine traditional Liberian flavors into unique and memorable dishes is truly impressive. The chef draws inspiration from traditional Liberian cuisine while adding his own unique twist. From palm butter wings to fufu tacos, the menu is both creative and memorable. I have to admit, the fufu tacos were absolutely delicious.

Atlanta Breakfast Club

Now, this breakfast spot did not disappoint. The food delivered everything you would expect from a classic Southern breakfast experience. We ordered shrimp and grits, chicken and waffles, and the biscuit benedict, which was my absolute favorite. Every dish was flavorful, comforting, and worth the visit.

Stone Mountain

The icing on the cake was hiking Stone Mountain. The views from the top can only truly be appreciated in person. Pictures simply do not do them justice. This was one of the best hikes I have done in a long time. Between great company, meaningful conversations, and being surrounded by nature, it was the perfect experience and a reminder of how refreshing it can be to disconnect and be present.

May ended with even more quality time spent with family and simply enjoying one another’s company. This month reminded me just how loved I am, more than I could ever imagine.

New Records Added to My Collection

Ending on a sweet note, let’s dive into the new records I purchased this month.

1. Sergio Mendes

I mentioned in my last monthly blog post that I had developed an interest in Brazilian jazz and wanted to begin collecting records from the genre. Finding a Sergio Mendes record felt like the perfect place to start. I came across it at a pop-up market not too far from where I live and had a wonderful conversation with the vendor. Experiences like this this melts my heart.

2. Miriam Makeba

I am so grateful to those who recommended that I explore Miriam Makeba’s music and purchase her records. The legendary South African artist brought such creativity and soul to her work. I have only listened to the record once so far, but I already appreciate her artistry and look forward to spending more time with her music.

As I conclude my reflections on the month of May, I am filled with gratitude.

Thank you for all the love, the memories made with family and friends, and the new connections that reminded me of who I truly am. Every conversation, every laugh, every meal, and every moment contributed to a month I will always cherish. Here’s to carrying that same love, joy, and gratitude into June and beyond.

Until next month. ❤️