Spring 2026
A Soft Return
Quietly reconnecting and embracing my wellness journey with grace, welcoming a season of renewed growth, healthy boundaries, standing ten toes down on them and living without regrets. Finally putting myself first, and living and loving every moment of it!
~Simply Me~
Tica🫶🏿
Hello again, I've been away for a while as life has required my full attention since the start of the year. Sometimes true consistency is knowing when to pause so you can return with a steady spirit and a soul that is truly grounded. From the quiet start of January through a birthday month (February) that didn't quite go as planned, my energy was needed elsewhere. Between showing up for those closest to me during a challenging chapter, and then in March I ended up spending four days in the children's hospital with my youngest son, (what a scare that was) of course presence for my family was my priority, so I chose stillness over sharing.
While away, I've also been at the finish of a long- term goal, closing this chapter has me incredibly excited for the new opportunities ahead. Reclaiming my peace during these last few months has been an intentional choice. It allowed me to realign with a deeper, more meaningful approach to self-care. My focus now is simply on living a life that is curated, cultivated, uncomplicated , chaos, drama free, and kind to my heart.
I'm am prioritizing my health, embracing happiness from within, realizing that I deserve it, also letting go of expectations, remaining rooted, staying protective of my spirit. And looking forward to waking up each day determined to be a better woman than the day before.
The Fresh Breeze:
Opening the windows to let the crisp air circulate, finally letting my home breath again and clearing away the heavy layers of winter. (A tiny confession); I love the breeze but I'll be the first to close the windows the second I smell cut grass— it's one of my spring/summer pet peeves!
The Unlikely Plot Twist:
Introducing a pallet of purple hues into my living room — a color I never thought I'd lean into. It's a color I've spent years seeing on one of my daughters who is such a purple fanatic she even wears it in her hair—but I never thought I would choose it for my own space. It just goes to show that even our own personal taste can bloom in new, unseen and unfamiliar ways.
Nature's Greeting, A Morning Serenade:
Hearing the birds chirping outside my window the very moment my 5:15 AM alarm goes off. Even though my phone is technically what wakes me up, their song is the first thing I hear, it's a peaceful sound that softens the start of my day as I settle into my morning routine. I have always loved the sounds of nature, they can soothe, calm and quiet a noisy mind.
The Seasonal Shift:
There is something so restorative about a seasonal reset and right now I'm leaning into the soft return of Spring — swapping out the heavy textures of winter for lighter fabrics and fresh scents. It's not just about cleaning; it's about intentionally clearing space for new energy and a peaceful mind as I move forward. It's my way of making sure my home feels as light and uncomplicated as I want my days to be.
The Ultimate Homebody:
I've reached a point where I truly love being home — it is my place of refuge. I am the ultimate homebody, and after a busy day there is nowhere I'd rather be than in my own space. The second I walk in the door and catch the scent of my plugins, I can finally exhale. I'm just loving the peace that comes from being still in an environment that feels exactly like me.
Soul In Motion:
I've always been one to dance my way through the year, but lately I'm especially loving how a good playlist can lift my spirit. From the high energy of old-school hip hop and R&B that gets me moving, to the praise and worship that gives me true mental clarity, music has been my favorite outlet for as long as I can remember. There is nothing like a soulful track or a moment of praise to clear my head and keep my energy light. Life comes at you fast and hard, so I have to keep my joy at the center of everything.
Simply Intentional, Bare and Natural Wellness, My Way:
I've learned that peace doesn't just happen;it is intentional. To me self-care is more than just candles and bubble baths — it's the intentional work of grounding my spirit and protecting my peace. These are the bare and natural practices that nurture my heart, allowing me to show up with the strength, dignity, confidence of the woman I am called to be.
And it is because I am pouring into my own cup, understanding that I have to show up for myself, full because empty is draining, and the cup won't fill itself. And you definitely can't trust anyone else to do it, some of us pray while others prey so show up for yourself even when you don't feel like it.
The Flow Of The Pen: Inked Intentions
There is a gentle power in quite a moment and a fresh page. For me, the ritual of the pen is where the noise of the world fades away, replaced by the smooth flow of my thoughts. It isn't about perfection; it's about creating a graceful space where my intentions can breathe and my soul can find it's rest. The pages are my confidant — a place where my heart can speak freely without the twenty one questions or the need to explain myself , sometimes venting can lead to over sharing so be careful.
While the seasons are changing and the outside world adjusts , this sacred quiet time remains my constant source. It is the bridge between my dreams and my reality a place to be alone with my goals and fears. It is a lifelong signature of the life I'm intentionally choosing, one soft line at a time.
Quiet Waters: The Milk Soak
The soft glow of a few candles is all I need to feel an immediate release. I've traded the busy, complicated weight from my day for a moment that feels so comforting, blocking out all distractions.
By keeping things simple, I transform the water with a nourishing milk soak, made by me, It softens my skin and allows the muscles in my body to finally relax. It's in this stillness that the tension of day drops away, leaving only warmth and quiet calm of a peaceful night.
Refined and Rest:The Skin Refresh
Late Night Cravings: A Light Snack
After my bath, I move into the most intentional part of my ritual. This is where I focus on my skin, I let the steamer blow a gentle mist over my face, which feels so refreshing. Slipping on my headband and wristlets makes the moment feel complete — it's these soft details that turn a simple routine into a luxury.
With my pores feeling open from the steam, I reach for my signature Simply SanDrá Essential products on my tray to nourish and protect, two of my favorites are pictured. This is my final reset — the finishing touch that leaves me feeling soft and ready for a deep, restful sleep.
Late Night Cravings: A Light Snack
Late Night Cravings: A Light Snack
Before I finally settle in for bed, I listen to what my body needs. Sometimes it's a bowl of cereal, banana or an orange if I have fruit, or a plate of peanut butter crackers to hit the spot. It's a simple bit of nourishment that provides the comfort I need so I'm not going to bed on an empty stomach. It leaves me content and satisfied. I try, and do really well not eating heavy foods before laying down.
Midnight & Moonlight: The Quietest Hour
As the trees sway outside my window I end my night with prayer. After I talk to God and offer my gratitude for all that He's done for me, I climb into my bed and just enjoy the quiet of my home. Wether I'm getting lost in a game on my phone, a coloring page or a favorite movie, this is where I power down.
Often, I'll find myself drifting off to the sound of a show or flick, at times I'm watching the tv, or it's watching me. Sometimes I just turn on thunder and rain or nature sleep sounds, letting it lull me into night night land. It's the softest and best part of the night, my body is relaxed and l am tucked in feeling completely comfy cozy.
My Sleep Shade: The Blackout Zone
My Sleep Shade: The Blackout Zone
This piece is designed to provide a sense of total seclusion, it fits right into the quiet comfort aesthetic offering a simple solution for those who need to block out extra light to sleep better. I wanted to share a look at this specific style, as it is one of my new items that will be available for you to shop soon. I love sleep shades and I use them every night and when I nap in the day time. My Mama actually use to have an unease about wearing one but once she tried it she absolutely loved it, and said she slept very well.
Good Morning, How did you sleep?
My Sleep Shade: The Blackout Zone
Good Morning, How did you sleep?
Let this spring be the season you choose to stick to your boundaries and prioritize your rest. You have one life to live, and putting yourself first is the best way to honor it. There is a deep value in a slow start without an agenda. Choosing yourself isn't a one-time event, it's a commitment that begins the moment your eyes open.
Within this personal haven, let the clarity of the new day remind you that you are allowed to stay centered, to protect your energy. Be mindful of the company you keep, and who you allow around you; energy vampires are real! Use discernment and self validation to flourish own your own terms.
Reflections of Peace: A Moment for the Soul
Take a moment and let these words settle into your spirit, be still and simply just be.
CARRY THESE INTENTIONS WITH YOU AS A REMINDER OF YOUR OWN LIGHT AND STRENGTH! ✨🫶🏿
• I honor my need for peace, happiness and restoration
•I am worthy of moments that soothe my heart and soul
• My reflection in the mirror is my reminder that self validation is the only one that counts
•I will set healthy boundaries, and stand ten toes down on them
•I will not be weighed down by the things I was never meant to carry
•I matter so I will always choose myself first
As always I'm sending love, light, prayers, well wishes, high energy, positive thoughts, vibes and a virtual hug until we post again.✨🫶🏿
Welcome to my cozy kitchen: Pull up a chair and stay awhile
Cooking is another form of therapy for me, and always has been for as long as I can remember, it's one of my favorite things to do. Take a look at what's been blooming on my table . Heads up: these are raw and real, not professional photos so expect some imperfections.
Savor and Soul: Made with Love
A small steak seared with garlic infused oil, a baked potato with chives and melted Gouda and sharp cheddar cheese (grated by me) and fresh asparagus🔥I started eating asparagus about four years ago, I've only ever had it fresh and I definitely like it a lot.
Fresh & Simple
A salad loaded with shrimp, real bacon pieces, tomatoes, cucumbers and onions, sprinkled with old bay for a little flavor , just right for a quick fresh lightweight option.🥗😋 And yes, that's my bottle of Hidden Valley Ranch in the background. I ran out of French.
Made with love: Satisfying the soul, One Bite at a Time
Warm pancakes, crisp air-fryer bacon, and scrambled eggs with Havarti and Monterey jack cheese, and butter just starting to melt over the top. The perfect comfort food for a good morning and a great start to the day.🥞
Takeout at home: What's on the Menu?
Homemade shrimp egg rolls, fried rice, sweet chili & spicy teriyaki chicken and shrimp. This hits just like your favorite song playing when you're driving in your car. It's spot on when you're craving one of your favorite restaurant foods but want to skip the restaurant price tag. (And FYI, it only took 23$ to prepare this entire meal!)😁
A Sweet Tooth's Dream: The Best of Both Dessert Worlds
Banana Pudding meets Cheesecake. After all those savory meals, you always need a little something sweet, why choose when you can combine two absolute classics into one? It is a rich and creamy treat. And to the microscope people looking closely — real bananas brown fast, but that just means the flavor is locked in under those cookie crumbles.! And by the way, it's the no- bake kind.😉
My Soda Alternative:
I stopped drinking soda, and this is what I do instead, except I usually buy the lemon kind, but honestly there's not a big difference between the two. I use different flavor packets all the time and even though the one pictured is grape, my four favorites are the sonic cherry limeade, cherry starburst, cranberry Canada dry and lastly the Sunkist lemon lime that to me mimics sprite, which I use to drink often. Buying a case of sparkling water and very inexpensive water enhancements saves way more money than even loading up on individual sparkling water bottles.✨🥤
Spring in a glass: The Ultimate Palate Cleanser
Spring in a glass: The Ultimate Palate Cleanser
Spring in a glass: The Ultimate Palate Cleanser
Infusing my day with a little extra intention, to be honest lemon water is normally my go-to but when you run out, you improvise! I used leftover limes from my cilantro lime rice instead without making a unnecessary store run. There's nothing like it, especially when it's super ice cold, it just gives refreshing reset vibes.🫒
FYI try mint, strawberry & lemon water with a little honey.🔥 Honestly you have to let it sit for a bit so the flavors can kick in, it isn't going to taste like much right away. And I've got one of my favorite Dollar General candles burning in the shadows behind it too. (True living: Black Cedar 👌🏿)
Soulful Comfort: Deep Flavor In Living Color
Spring in a glass: The Ultimate Palate Cleanser
Spring in a glass: The Ultimate Palate Cleanser
What this you ask? Oh, it's nothing just a plate of fried chicken, mac and cheese, sweet potatoes, mustard & turnip greens cooked with smoked turkey drizzled with a little hot sauce, and a piece of cornbread.😋 A little note to myself that good food doesn't take all day when you know your way around the kitchen.
You can make delicious meals for yourself or your family in a short time, leaving the rest of it for something else you may need to do, without running back and forth to keep a constant eye on things. Remember the goal is simplicity, we work smarter not harder.