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I’ve been a horrible friend these last three years. Writing that hurts, but it’s the truth I’ve been sitting with for a while now.
The first year after my Dad died, I was a shell of myself. Not dramatic. Not poetic. Just empty. I showed up when I could, disappeared when I couldn’t, and often didn’t have the words to explain why. I wasn’t intentionally distant I just didn’t have access to myself anymore. Grief took up every inch of space inside me, and there was nothing left to give. I didn’t know how to be a friend when I was barely surviving as a human. The second year wasn’t much better. I thought time would magically fix things, but it didn’t. I was still numb, still operating on autopilot. I answered texts days late. I canceled plans last minute. I missed birthdays, celebrations, moments that mattered. On the outside, I was building, creating, and showing up as an entrepreneur but internally, I was drowning quietly. Running a business while grieving taught me how to perform strength while feeling completely hollow. This third year has been different. Not easy just different. The fog didn’t lift all at once, but slowly, with intention. Therapy cracked me open in ways I didn’t expect. Movement, travel, journaling, and small lifestyle shifts helped me reconnect to my body and my emotions. I started to feel again and with that came guilt. Guilt for how absent I had been. Guilt for how many people I love that I let down without explanation. Grief doesn’t just make you sad. It makes you unreliable. It makes you cancel. It makes you withdraw. It makes you protect your energy at the expense of relationships you care deeply about. And as an entrepreneur, the pressure to keep going to keep producing, smiling, leading only deepened that isolation. I was pouring everything into survival and work, leaving nothing for friendships that once felt effortless. There are people I love deeply who didn’t get the version of me they deserved. Friends who reached out and didn’t hear back. Friends who stopped inviting me because I kept saying no. Friends who needed me, and I just couldn’t show up. I understand how that could feel like abandonment. I understand how silence can feel personal, even when it’s rooted in pain. Now that I’m emerging, I’m holding space for a hard truth: some friendships may not survive this version of me. And that breaks my heart — but I also respect it. People are allowed to have limits. They’re allowed to protect themselves. They’re allowed to decide they can’t wait for someone to come back to life. What I hope more than anything is that there’s still room in some hearts for me. Room for grace. Room for understanding. Room for the version of me who is trying again. And if there isn’t? I’m learning to honor that too. Healing doesn’t guarantee reconciliation. Sometimes it just brings acceptance. I’m not writing this for sympathy. I’m writing it for honesty and for anyone else who feels like grief turned them into someone they don’t recognize. You’re not broken. You’re grieving. And grief doesn’t come with a rulebook or a timeline. If I’ve been distant from you, know this: it was never a lack of love. It was survival. I’m learning how to be present again slowly, imperfectly, intentionally. And I’m giving myself permission to rebuild relationships the same way I rebuilt myself: one step at a time. If there’s still space for me, I’m grateful. If not, I still send love. Either way, I’m choosing to keep healing and that has to be enough.
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The holiday season is officially here, and if you’re anything like me, your to-do list is already growing by the minute. Gifts to buy, events to attend, errands to run, and somehow some way we still have to keep our peace, our pockets, and our sanity intact. But this year, I’m making the holidays easier, smarter, and more stress-free thanks to Metro and their latest convenience: MetroNow.
Y’all, let me tell you. This service is a game changer. As someone who is always on the go—literally—it’s important for me to find ways to maximize my time and energy. Between blogging, traveling, speaking, planning for Herald Beauty, and living life, I don’t have time to be stuck in traffic or circling the parking lot at Kenwood Mall like it’s the Hunger Games. That’s why I’m so excited to share that MetroNow now stops at Kenwood Mall, making holiday shopping one thousand times more convenient. What Is MetroNow? If you haven’t heard of it yet, MetroNow is Metro’s new on-demand shuttle service, think rideshare, but affordable, reliable, and community-minded. You request a ride, MetroNow picks you up within minutes, and you’re off to your destination without the stress of parking, driving, or paying the kind of surge pricing that makes your wallet want to scream. Whether you’re heading to Kenwood for Christmas gifts, last-minute holiday fits, or just some retail therapy, MetroNow is the move. For more information, visit: [link goes here]. Kenwood Mall during the holidays is a whole vibe. The decorations, the energy, the gift options—everything feels festive. You can knock out your entire shopping list in one trip, grab a bite, pick up something for yourself (because self-care is real), and feel like you accomplished something. But Kenwood also gets CROWDED. Parking is a sport. Traffic is a headache. And sometimes, just getting inside the mall can take longer than the shopping itself. That’s why MetroNow pulling up to Kenwood is such a blessing. You get dropped off right at the mall. No parking garages. No circling. No stress. Holiday Shopping with Ease I recently took MetroNow to Kenwood for a holiday content day and some shopping and let me tell you I was out here living my best, most stress-free life. I had my list, my phone for pictures, and the freedom to move at my own pace. I didn’t have to worry about whether my car was going to get blocked in. I didn’t have to remember what level I parked on. I simply hopped out, shopped, enjoyed myself, and called MetroNow when I was done. The convenience alone is enough to make this my new holiday tradition. The holidays can be overwhelming. The pressure to juggle everything at once is real. But little decisions—like choosing MetroNow can ease the load more than you’d expect. Less stress = more joy. More joy = more energy. More energy = a better holiday season. And honestly, that’s the goal this year. Peace, ease, and convenience wherever I can get it. Whether you’re knocking out gifts, getting holiday glam, or just stepping out for a festive day at Kenwood, MetroNow is here to make your life easier. As your girl who is always on the go, trust me this one is worth trying. This holiday season, choose ease. Choose convenience. Choose joy. Choose MetroNow. There are restaurants in Paris and then there are experiences. Bambini is one of those places that reminds you why Paris continues to romanticize food, fashion, and ambiance in a way no other city can. This spot has quickly become one of my favorite Paris restaurants not just because the food is good (because trust me, it is), but because the entire vibe feels intentional, stylish, and effortlessly cool.
First things first: the location. When I say you are sitting literally next to the Eiffel Tower, I mean exactly that. Bambini is tucked inside the Palais de Tokyo, and when you’re seated, the Eiffel Tower feels like it’s right there, looming beautifully over your table. It’s the kind of view that makes you pause mid-conversation, mid-bite, and just take it all in. Whether you’re dining solo, on a girls’ date, or leaning into romance, the backdrop alone makes this place unforgettable. Now let’s talk food because Bambini is not just about being seen. Usually, I’m a pasta girl through and through when I come here. Their pasta never misses. But this time, I decided to switch it up and order the steak and potatoes, and baby I’m so glad I did. The steak was perfectly cooked, tender, and flavorful in that simple but done right French way. The potatoes? Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside exactly how they should be. That said, I couldn’t fully abandon my pasta ways. I ordered a side of rigatoni, because let’s be clear just because I chose steak doesn’t mean pasta doesn’t belong at the table. And honestly? That was the best decision. The rigatoni was rich, comforting, and the perfect complement to the steak. No regrets, just good taste. What I love most about Bambini is how chic but approachable it feels. You don’t have to whisper, you don’t feel rushed, and you don’t feel like you’re trying too hard. It’s stylish without being stiff, lively without being overwhelming. The kind of place where you can dress up, order a great cocktail or glass of wine, and really enjoy the moment you’re in. This restaurant is perfect for so many occasions. A solo lunch where you sit, sip, people-watch, and romanticize your life? Yes. A girls’ date filled with laughter, shared plates, and photos with the Eiffel Tower peeking through? Absolutely. A romantic date where the setting does half the work for you? Bambini has you covered. Paris isn’t always my go-to city for consistently great food let’s be honest but Bambini continues to deliver every single time. It’s chic, it’s delicious, and it reminds you why dining in Paris can feel so special when you choose the right spot. If you’re planning a Paris trip, put Bambini on your list. Come hungry, come stylish, and don’t skip the pasta even if you order the steak. Trust me If you know me, you know this might shock you: Paris is not usually my go-to destination for unforgettable food. Don’t get me wrong I love a cute café moment, a croissant on the go, and a glass of wine that somehow tastes better just because you’re in France. But when it comes to meals that really make me pause? Paris hasn’t always been that girl for me. Until now.
On this trip, I found myself at Ambassade d’Auvergne, a cozy, traditional restaurant tucked away in the Marais, and baby it was a 10/10 experience from start to finish. Let’s talk about the real reason I came: the aligot. If you’re unfamiliar, aligot is a rich, stretchy blend of mashed potatoes and cheese that comes from the Auvergne region of France. Think comfort food meets drama. I ordered the lamb, which was perfectly cooked and flavorful, but let me be very clear the aligot was the star of the show. And they didn’t just bring it out quietly. They served my aligot like a full production. The server stood right in front of our table and began whipping the potatoes with what felt like Olympic-level arm strength, lifting it higher and higher, showing off that legendary cheese pull. Long, silky, stretchy strands of cheesy goodness just kept going and the entire table was locked in. Phones out. Mouths watering. Respectfully silent. It was giving performance art. It was giving French excellence. It was giving I did not come to play. When I finally took my first bite? Whew. Creamy, buttery, cheesy in a way that felt indulgent but not overwhelming. The kind of food that makes you close your eyes for a second and just nod. You know the nod. Paired with the lamb, it was hearty, comforting, and deeply satisfying the kind of meal that makes you feel warm from the inside out, especially after a long day of walking Parisian streets. What I loved most about Ambassade d’Auvergne was how unpretentious it felt. No fluff. No trends. Just classic French regional cuisine done really, really well. The atmosphere is intimate and welcoming, the service warm, and the menu focused which I always take as a good sign. This experience reminded me that sometimes, the best meals happen when you’re not expecting them. Paris may not always be my top city for food, but this night? This meal? Absolutely changed my mind. So if you’re heading to Paris and want something comforting, authentic, and memorable skip the trendy spots for one night and let the cheese stretch. Trust me. Ambassade d’Auvergne understood the assignment. One of my absolute favorite spots to stay in Paris has to be the Pullman Eiffel Tower Paris Hotel. If you’re like me and love saving those coins, here’s a tip: book one night and split the cost with a friend. Trust me, it’s worth every penny and every Instagram shot. This hotel is a content creator’s dream, offering a chic, modern vibe and just the perfect backdrop for those iconic Paris moments.
Location-wise, it doesn’t get better. You are literally in the heart of the city, just minutes from the Eiffel Tower yes, literally right next to it and close to all the action. Walking around after check-in is a breeze, whether you’re heading to the Galleria Lafayette for a little retail therapy (the hotel even has special offers for nearby shopping) or taking a scenic stroll along the Seine. The rooms themselves are spacious, clean, and thoughtfully designed, with all the modern amenities you could want. But what really sets this hotel apart is the customer service. Every staff member I encountered was welcoming, helpful, and genuinely seemed to want to make my stay unforgettable. I’ve stayed in many hotels across Paris, but the Pullman consistently impresses with attention to detail and a seamless experience. And let’s talk aesthetics if you’re a content creator, this hotel is a visual playground. From the chic lobby to the rooftop views (yes, your Eiffel Tower content is sorted), it’s impossible not to capture the magic. I’ve stayed here solo and with friends, and each time the photos have turned out like a dream. My next stay? It has to be with the love of my life this place is the perfect backdrop for memories, moments, and maybe even a little romance. Beyond aesthetics, the Pullman Eiffel Tower is just convenient. Restaurants, cafes, metro stops everything is close by. Plus, they often have special offers for nearby experiences, so you can add a little extra luxury or shopping adventure to your Parisian itinerary without breaking the bank. If you’re planning a trip to Paris and want Instagram-worthy photos, a central location, and top-notch service, I cannot recommend the Pullman Eiffel Tower enough. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or splitting a stay with a friend, it’s the perfect spot to rest your head and soak in the city’s energy. Book it, snap away, and start creating those unforgettable Paris memories. If you’re heading to London and even thinking about afternoon tea, let me save you some scrolling: Sketch is that girl. Yes, it’s pricey. Yes, your wallet might clutch its pearls for a second. But sometimes you don’t travel to be practical you travel to experience something iconic. And Sketch delivers exactly that.
Located in Mayfair, Sketch is more than a restaurant it’s an experience. From the moment you walk in, it feels like you’ve stepped into a dreamy, whimsical art installation. Every room has its own personality, but the famous pink Gallery is where afternoon tea magic happens. Plush velvet seating, art-covered walls, and a vibe that screams London luxury with personality. It’s elegant without feeling stuffy my favorite combination. Now let’s talk numbers, because I know y’all are wondering. Afternoon tea at Sketch runs about £115 per person, and that includes your choice of tea, a glass of champagne, endless finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and the cutest desserts you’ve ever seen. Are you paying for aesthetics? Yes. But you’re also paying for quality, service, and a memory you’ll talk about long after the trip. And listen I fully intended to be “dainty.” That plan went out the window quickly. When they say endless sandwiches, they mean it. I absolutely went overboard, but baby I had to get my money’s worth. The sandwiches were fresh, flavorful, and surprisingly filling. Between the savory bites, warm scones with clotted cream and jam, and desserts that look like tiny works of art, you’ll leave satisfied and full. The desserts deserve their own moment. They’re playful, creative, and honestly too pretty to eat (but you will). Each one feels intentional and indulgent without being overly sweet. It’s one of those experiences where you slow down, sip your tea, laugh a little louder, and remember why travel feels so good. And then the bathrooms. If you know, you know. Sketch’s futuristic, egg-shaped pods are practically a tourist attraction on their own. I’m not even exaggerating when I say people take photos in there. It’s quirky, unexpected, and very on-brand for the entire experience. Here’s my honest advice: save your coins where you can on the trip, but make room for this moment. Afternoon tea at Sketch isn’t something you do every day it’s something you do when you want to feel special, romanticize your life a little, and fully lean into London’s charm. If you’re celebrating something, traveling solo, with friends, or just treating yourself because you deserve it Sketch is a must-do. Expensive? Yes. Regrets? None. If there’s one thing I’m going to do — it’s keep this face glowing. Between long-haul flights, cold weather, and jumping from city to city, your girl has learned the hard way that travel will humble your skin real quick if you don’t come prepared. Dry cabin air, hotel heating systems, and freezing temperatures are a recipe for tight, dull, irritated skin… and we’re not doing that in 2025.
So today, I’m sharing the skincare routine that’s been saving my face during my travels — the products that have been keeping my skin moisturized, bright, plump, and photo-ready no matter what time zone I wake up in. These are all Black-girl-friendly, travel-friendly, and Morgan-approved. Step 1: A Good Gel Cleanser – Medicube Let’s start strong. A good cleanser sets the tone for everything else, and Medicube’s gel cleanser has been my go-to. It’s gentle, effective, and doesn’t strip my skin — ever. After long days touring cities, shooting content, sweating, wearing makeup, and running through airports (literally), I need a cleanser that resets my skin without making it feel tight. Medicube does exactly that. It gives a fresh, clean base and keeps my moisture barrier intact — a must when you’re constantly exposed to dry air on planes and cold winds outside. Step 2: Toner – Laneige Milk Toner This Laneige Milk Toner? She’s elite. Think of this as the first sip of hydration your skin gets after cleansing. It’s soft, milky, soothing, and instantly makes my skin feel like it’s being hugged. During travel, toners are clutch because they rebalance your skin and prep it to drink up the serums and moisturizers that come next. My skin always feels calm and cushioned after using this. No irritation, no dryness — just soft, hydrated goodness. Step 3: Sunscreen Packed With Vitamin C (K-Beauty Brand) Let me say this louder for the girlies in the back: YES, you need sunscreen in the winter. YES, you need sunscreen even when you’re traveling. YES, Black women need sunscreen too. I’ve been loving a lightweight Korean sunscreen packed with Vitamin C — hydration + protection + brightness. The Vitamin C gives me that natural radiance even on days when the sun hides behind the clouds and London or Paris decide to be gloomy. It keeps hyperpigmentation at bay (because travel + stress + cold air can definitely trigger flare-ups) and layers beautifully under makeup. This step alone keeps my skin looking alive when I’m tired, jet-lagged, and pushing through time zones. Step 4: Moisturizing Milk – ANU Let me introduce you to the product that seals the deal — literally. ANU’s moisturizing milk is that rich-but-not-heavy goodness my skin drinks up instantly. It locks in hydration without clogging pores and keeps my face protected against the harshest weather. What I love most is how soft and bouncy it leaves my skin feeling. It’s lightweight enough for daytime but hydrating enough for those cold nights when your skin is begging for moisture. Travel may wear me out, but it will never dull my glow. These products have been my winter-weather, cross-continent heroes — keeping my skin moisturized, radiant, and ready for content at all times. If you’re traveling soon or just bracing for cold weather, trust me… your skin will thank you for leveling up your routine. Stay glowing, stay moisturized, and stay tuned for more of my beauty + travel essentials Let’s talk about the unsexy side of travel the parts that don’t make it to Instagram. The messy, chaotic, sweaty, “Lord, why am I like this?” moments. Because baby, what happened at Gatwick Airport on my way back to Paris deserves its own documentary. So picture this: It’s early. I’m tired. I’m in London with my girl Tiffanie, and we’re trying to catch our 8:10 AM flight to Paris. Boarding ends at 7:45 AM. Simple, right? WRONG. We get to the train station, minding our business, sipping vibes, when the unthinkable happens: The first train gets cancelled. Cool. Fine. A hiccup. It happens. So we try to be slick and grab an Uber. They wanted $150 USD one way — for what?! And the kicker? Even with that price, we still wouldn’t make the flight. Absolutely not. I refuse to pay luxury prices for late arrival. So we wait for the next train like sensible adults until that train decides to add FIVE extra stops before the airport. At that point I looked at Tiffanie like, “Girl, go on without me. I’m heading back to the hotel.” Logic said it was impossible. There was no mathematical way we would arrive at 7:10, switch terminals, get through security, find our gate, and make it before they closed the doors. But the moment the train doors opened at the airport station something came over me. I wasn’t going to leave my friend. No baddie left behind. And just like that the travel version of The Hunger Games began. I have NEVER in my entire life moved so fast while carrying two pieces of luggage. I was sprinting like TSA was handing out Beyoncé tickets at the gate. From the train station to the shuttle from the shuttle to the terminal it felt like a 5K race through chaos. I’m pretty sure I clipped a few ankles and rolled over at least one suitcase but listen, in the Travel Games, it’s every woman for herself. Once we arrived at the main terminal, I told Tiffanie, “Get ready. We’re doing Fast Track.” We paid that upcharge like two women who had seen the face of defeat and refused to shake its hand. Security, thankfully, was quick. But the moment we got out, I looked up and of course our gate was the very last gate in the terminal. Why are international airport gates so disrespectfully far? Who designed these? Why must I walk a full marathon before I can board Questions I’ll never have answers to. So we took off again sweating, cramping, gasping, dragging suitcases like they were filled with bricks. People looked at us like, “Couldn’t be me.” And I kept yelling, “WE CAN DO IT! WE’RE COMING!” By some miracle and I do mean miracle we reached the gate at 7:45 AM and THEY WERE STILL BOARDING. I could’ve cried. I think my soul left my body and came back. The flight attendants saw us drenched, limp, and breathing like we ran from a lion, and immediately handed us water. Angels. True angels. And just like that, we were back in the air heading to Paris. Will I ever try to save money by taking a train to one of London’s “other airports” again? Absolutely not. Gatwick, Stansted, Luton y’all won’t catch me slipping again.I lived to see another day of Mo on the Go travel, but let this be a lesson to my fellow jetsetters: Don’t be like me. Budget for the Uber. Leave early. Wear breathable clothing. And always ALWAYS be ready for the unsexy side of travel. If you’ve been following my Mo on the Go adventures, then you already know London has truly become a second home to me. And when I say “home,” I mean the places that wrap you in comfort, familiarity, and a little bit of magic the moment you walk through the door. That’s exactly why Hilton Canopy London remains one of my absolute favorite hotels in the city. I stayed here last year during my Mo on the Go residency, and the moment I checked in this time around, it felt like I was picking up right where I left off. I was so excited to be back because no matter how many hotels I review around the world, this one stands out.
Let’s start with the rooms. Spacious. Comfortable. Thoughtfully designed. In a city where hotel rooms can feel cozy (and by cozy, I mean tight!), Hilton Canopy gives you room to breathe, stretch out, relax, and actually settle in. The beds? Heavenly. The kind that lull you into the kind of sleep you can only get after a long day exploring London’s streets. The décor mixes modern style with warm details, creating a space that feels luxurious without ever being cold or uninviting. This is the kind of room you look forward to returning to every night. The food at Canopy is another reason this hotel stays at the top of my list. Whether it’s breakfast before hopping on the Tube or a late-night bite after exploring the city, everything is fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. Their menu always reflects London’s blend of global influences while still keeping things simple and satisfying. And then there’s my favorite part: the bar. I have made so many memories sitting at that bar, chatting with other travelers, unwinding with a delicious cocktail, and writing notes for my blog. There’s something about that space warm lighting, great music, friendly staff that always inspires a good story. Location-wise, Hilton Canopy is unmatched. Just a short walk from Aldgate Station, you can get anywhere in the city quickly and easily. Whether you’re heading to Shoreditch for a trendy dinner, hopping over to Tower Bridge for photos, or taking the Tube deeper into Central London, you’re perfectly placed. For travelers like me who are always on the move, that convenience matters. But what truly took my breath away this time was the holiday décor. London already feels like a Christmas movie in December, but Hilton Canopy knows how to elevate it even more. Sparkling lights, festive accents, and a warm seasonal ambiance make the hotel feel cozy and magical. It’s the type of place where you want to curl up with a cocktail, journal about your travels, and soak in the moment. Some places are just hotels a place to lay your head. But Hilton Canopy London? It’s part of the story. A place where memories are made, creativity flows, and “Mo on the Go” feels right at home. I already can’t wait to be back again. December 7th will always be a sacred day for me. My Dad’s Heavenly Birthday. A day that still feels unreal to write, say, or even think about.
Grief has a way of reshaping you, stretching you, breaking you open, and then slowly teaching you how to rebuild piece by piece. As I honor him today, I’m honoring not just the man he was, but the woman I am becoming because of the love he poured into me. Losing my Dad was like losing my anchor. He was my biggest cheerleader, my calm in the storm, the person who reminded me without saying many words that I was capable, brilliant, and more powerful than I ever realized. He loved my writing. He would text me after reading my posts, proud of the way I turned my thoughts into something that could uplift others. That’s something I carry with me every single day. When I write, when I travel, when I show up in my community, when I push forward in my business he’s there. This year, grief showed up in unexpected ways. Sometimes loud. Sometimes silent. Sometimes in the middle of a flight. Sometimes in the middle of a hotel room. Sometimes when I was trying to create, when I was trying to rest, or when I was trying to be “strong.” But through it all, I’ve tried to give myself grace. I’m learning that healing isn’t linear and it isn’t supposed to be. What I do know is this: my Dad would want me to keep going. To keep living. To keep traveling. To keep showing the world that Black women deserve rest, luxury, adventure, joy, softness, and ease. He would want me to keep breaking barriers. To keep building the life I dreamed of. To keep using my voice, my story, and my sparkle to inspire others. And so today, instead of breaking down, I am choosing to honor his life by continuing to live mine with intention. Continuing to grow. Continuing to write. Continuing to love myself through the hard seasons. Continuing to build spaces like Herald Beauty, Curvy Cardio, and Professional Pretty that uplift other women navigating their own mountains. If you’re reading this and missing someone too, I hope you know you’re not alone. I hope you know it’s okay to feel everything. To sit in the quiet moments. To celebrate the memories. To cry. To laugh. To keep going at your own pace. This Heavenly Birthday isn’t just a reminder of what I lost, but of everything I gained. A father who believed in me. A legacy of strength. And a reminder that I am still here, still becoming, still shining. Happy Heavenly Birthday, Dad. I love you endlessly. Thank you for guiding me from above. Everything I do, I carry you with me. |
About MorganMorgan Angelique Owens is the author of "Finding My Sparkle" and Founder & CEO of the MAO Brand, Professional Pretty, and Curvy Cardio, LLC. Archives
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