PATRIOTIC AND PROUD?

Holidays are interesting in today's social media environment. 

If you're a person of color, you're likely feeling a strong disdain for all things America right now. Our current political climate is volatile and scary and each day is filled with more setbacks for the country overall. So, when holidays like July 4th roll around...I start to wonder...can I still be patriotic and "woke" at the same time? #BlackTwitter will tell you this holiday is not one to be celebrated because it doesn't represent our freedom. Juneteenth (June 19) is the actual day that we should celebrate our true independence and commemorate with BBQs, fireworks and a day off from work. But who knows if Juneteenth will ever see mainstream attention like July 4. I highly doubt it'll happen in my lifetime. So...I guess for me the answer is yes and no. I can still be proud of the progress that was made before 45 stepped in office and started undoing all the good things that made this country what it was. I can still rock my red, white and blue and enjoy some BBQ ribs with my friends and family. But, I can't help but keep in mind how much this country doesn't love my people. And I'll continue to pray, vote and fight for change by calling Senators, signing petitions and marching. One step at a time, right?

With all of that said, let's talk a little about the LEWK! lol I wore a festive off-the-shoulder top from TJ MAXX that my aunt picked up specifically for me to wear (and post) on this occasion LOL. She literally called me months ago and said "hey, I'm sending you a cute July 4th top to put on your blog." I actually don't even think I had started the blog at that time. I just had the IG page but I knew what she meant. ;-) I wore my old faithful bermuda style denim shorts from TJ MAXX that I've had for a million years and my silver Zara brogues. These shoes always garner so many compliments (from men AND women which makes me smile) but they are so uncomfortable so I barely wear them anymore. :-/ But I do still love the look of them. On the ears, I added some pizazz with some new navy blue statement earrings from H&M. These earrings were $3!!!!! I realllyyyyy played myself when I didn't get all colors lol. I hung out with my friends in Jersey at one of the guy's houses and it was a fun, lowkey day. What did you do to celebrate? And more importantly, how do you feel about this holiday overall within our current political climate? Do you still feel like it's ok to have a little fun? Let me know your thoughts in the comments. XO - Ash

Part of my NYC family! Love them.

I look SO happy to be fake cooking. Ha. 

No, this is not a pic of me. This is the famous supermodel Jasmine Tookes in a dress with the identical pattern of my top!! My friend sent this to me on IG and I squealed lol. I had to share.

Photo credit: @jastookes Instagram page