Part Four

Four years ago today, I hit the publish button on my first blog post. I had no idea what to expect, but I knew that I wanted to write and I knew that I wanted to share my story. I had no idea that you guys would actually read my story... and come back for more... and share your stories too.

As a community, we've hung out with celebrities, worked with some amazing brands (hello e-Bay, H&M, Sesame Place, Netflix, and so many others), and traveled across the country for some pretty dope press trips.

We've also gotten our words and work published in several publications. In print and online. We've been featured in the likes of Parents Magazine, Time Out New York Kids, Redbook Magazine, New York Family Magazine, SheFinds, The New York Daily News, and The New York Times.

We've shown the world what young motherhood and single motherhood is truly about. Know this: our voices have been heard. Loud and proud. And we've done it all with impeccable style and grace.

I learned a lot of things over the last four years and I'm so glad that I was able to chronicle it on this here space and place. I've learned how to be a single mother, I've learned how to be a single woman, I've learned how to re-enter the dating world, and I got my heart broken. Again. Another again. And I've learned how to sustain a healthy romantic relationship. (Okay, okay... I'm still learning that part, but I've come a long way.)

Growing pains. At it's finest.

I've learned that even after experiencing domestic violence, even after dealing with PTSD, even though the scars are still there, I can be healed. I am healed. (To this day, that post still gets a lot of play.)

I learned how to be a student-momma and I learned how to get those degrees. I learned how to be a working-momma and I learned how to climb the career ladder. (I'm still working on this part -- God's not done with me yet.)

I learned how to stand tall. I learned how to be vulnerable. I learned how to ask for help. I learned how to make it through. And I learned that I have an entire community of folks behind me.

I often get emails from folks saying that I've inspired them in some sort of way. But you guys inspire me too. You teach me just as much as I attempt to teach you. You challenge me and you push me to do my very best and put my best foot forward.

And, for that, I'm thankful.

Cheers to four years of love and laughter, sharing stories, big and tight e-hugs, high-fives, encouragement, fashion, and sheer amazingness.

Thanks so much for kicking it with me. You all rock. Like, times ten.