It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Those close to me know that I’m usually the happiest November-January because each month there is a special celebration. My love for food and fellowship keeps me going in November as I prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving. My love for EVERYTHING CHRISTMAS keeps me going from October to early January . Finally, my love for myself keeps me going in January because it’s my birthday month! As usual, I’m getting ahead of myself. Let’s focus on the beautiful holiday that just passed.

I’m born and raised in ATL (that’s Atlanta for those who don’t know), but all my holidays are spent in Baton Rouge, LA with my dad’s amazing family. Most of my mom’s immediately family is in New York, but we celebrate with dad’s side because she doesn’t like winter in New York. Unfortunately, for the past 11 years it’s just been my parents, 2 aunts, 1 uncle, and 2 first cousins celebrating the holidays every year. I’m thankful that they are all still here, but it hasn’t really been the same since Daddy Rev and Mama Lettie died. My grandparents meant the world to me, and the impact they had in my life over the short period of time that I spent with them was more than anyone knows. I miss Daddy Rev playing his instruments and Mama Lettie taking her teeth out so she could “gum” the bacon fat at breakfast. I miss sitting on her lap and just talking with her about life. I miss the distinctive smell of their home. I remember in the days before Mama Lettie died, she started to teach me how to crochet. It was one of her favorite activities. I guess I’m really sad that they’re not here to see the man I’ve become today. Not a day goes by that they don’t cross my mind and as tears fall to my computer, I’m reminded that the pain of their death is still there. I’ll never forget singing at their funerals wishing that I could hear their voice again. All I can say is R.I.P. and I hope that you’re proud of me.

I’m not quite sure where that came from, but it was a much needed release. I often complain about trivial problems in life instead of being thankful for the things I have and the people that are still here with me. Although my family doesn’t always understand me, I’m appreciative of their love and support. As we go into this holiday season, let’s continue to be thankful and loving for more than one day out of the year.

In the latest episode of Chasing L.A., my camera came along to Louisiana with me so that y’all could meet some of my family. Hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving and please enjoy this episode. Be sure to like, comment, subscribe, and SHARE! As always, thanks for supporting my endeavors. You can either click HERE to watch the latest episode or watch below. Keep chasing your dreams, and I’ll keep chasing mine.