It has been a couple of months since my return from NOLA, and I must relive it for a moment because I had a blast at the 25th Essence Festival. I know there have probably been a million stories already posted, but the good thing about traveling is that everyone's adventures and experiences are different. Even though it was my first time attending this extraordinary event, I explored everything on the itinerary and more, and trust me, there were no disappointments.

Hold up, wait just one minute, because I was disappointed when I finally boarded after a one-hour layover and was told I had to exit the plane due to a six-hour delay. What? I managed to survive and learn to be patient with God's continued help. Besides being hyper, I occupied my time and was ready to board before I knew it. With that said, I was more than prepared to enjoy myself, and boy, was I right, because it turned out to be the ultimate girls' trip!

Finally, after a long wait, I got on the plane. Do I look happy? I am delighted!

Okay, so after arriving at the charming Le Pavillon Hotel, I had no time to lounge or chill because of my flight delay. However, after checking in, I hopped in the shower, got super cute, and was ready to hit the exciting streets of New Orleans and have some major fun!

As I stated earlier, even though I had a full itinerary, I still made time for other activities. I went to an All-White Converse Party, a Hangover Brunch, a Karaoke, Cocktails Midday Day Party, and other festivities, and I attended three nights at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. I got my weekend started, and of course, being a VIP, I decided to check out the Fire & Ice Essence Festival Kick-off Party with DJ Kid Capri, and boy, it was rocking! There were various nonstop performances and celebrity guests, with Loni Love as the host.

What can I say? It was Exciting, Inspirational, Motivating, Uplifting, and, most of all, Entertaining! I was glad to see Michelle Obama laughing it up with us (her audience) and enjoying the cultural moment that will become a beautiful part of history. There was so much to do, and I had to capture it quickly. NOLA, I will be back, but in the meantime, whether it's the architecture, nightlife, food, or entertainment, I am always excited to be a part of such a unique culture.

I do not watch Queen Sugar, but I took a picture with Kofi Siriboe (Ralph Angel Bordelon) and several other cast members for the people who do. Ha-ha! My girlfriends are SO beyond jealous.

I strength train, so my trainer told me to enjoy myself and not stress out about what I consume. Also, I am not a burger girl; I have never been, but I had one prepared by a chef, and all I could say was HALLELUJAH!

I came across some fried ribs—GOOD GOOGLY GOO (as Grady would say on Sanford and Son). What have I been missing?

THERE WAS A SIGNIFICANT FLOOD after arriving home from my trip, per the news. I sent up a prayer because New Orleans has weathered several catastrophes, and it will make it through this one as well. Remember, God is SO beyond amazing!

Credit: Photos by Kimberly C. Lyons are the sole property of KCL-IDESIGN, LLC®.

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