Author: sharondashariee

Living, Product Reviews, Self-Care, Skincare, Skincare Routine, Summer/Winter Skincare Routine

My Skincare Routine: Simple, Steady, and Here to Stay (Dry & Sensitive Skin)

sharondashariee

My Skincare Routine: Simple, Steady, and Here to Stay

Let me say this right off the top:

Cleansed Unfiltered Face

I am not the “20 products, switch it up every season” girlie. I am a creature of habit with dry, sensitive skin, and once I find something that works, I stick with it.

It is not about chasing perfect skin.

Wait… yes, it is! Ha.

But it is also about feeling clean, hydrated, and cared for, with the fewest steps possible.

Building a Skincare Routine

If you are trying to build a skincare routine, you might have to go through a little trial and error. Do not get discouraged. You are just figuring out what your skin likes, and that takes a little patience.

If you are anything like me, this part can be fun.

Researching, discovering, reading reviews, it is all part of the process.

Biggest Tip!

Add one new product at a time.

That way, if something causes irritation or throws your skin off, you know exactly what to eliminate, without having to guess.

My Morning Routine: Rinse, Hydrate, Protect

I do not cleanse my face in the mornings. Why?
Because honestly, what were you doing overnight that your face needs a full reset?

Never mind, I do not want to know. Unless you want to tell me. 

Here is what I reach for in the AM:

• Splash of cold water – That is it. Just to wake up my face.

• La Roche-Posay Vitamin C Serum – A quick hit of brightness and antioxidant protection. Lightweight and smooth under everything.

• The Ordinary Squalane Oil – My OG. My day-one favorite. I have used this for years, and my skin loves it, especially when it is dry or irritated. A few drops and my skin feels instantly calmer and smoother.

• Kiehl’s Avocado Eye Cream – Hydrates and softens. I told my cousin I felt like I needed Botox under my eyes. She said, “No you do not,” so I bought this instead.

• Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream with Squalane – My favorite moisturizer. Thick enough to do its job, light enough not to feel greasy. My other favorite moisturizer, La Roche Posay Double Repair.

• Trader Joe’s Daily Facial Sunscreen (SPF 40) – No white cast. Great for us brown-skin girls. No irritation. No weird smell. Just clean sun protection that layers perfectly, even if you are applying make-up.

That is it. Five products. Five minutes. And I am out the door—or at least closer to it.

New Facial Cleansing Tool

I’ve been using my new FOREO facial cleansing device, and I love it. It’s incredibly soft on my skin but still feels like it’s doing real work. My face feels cleaner and smoother every time I use it.

The silicone bristles are gentle. The T-Sonic™ pulsations give a deep cleanse without stripping my skin, which is perfect for my dry skin.

I love it so much. I’m seriously considering upgrading to the larger version and passing this one down to my daughter (she’s already been eyeing it!). It’s one of those skincare tools that makes you wonder why you didn’t add it sooner.

Foreo is currently having a Birthday sale. Visit, http://www.foreo.com and use promo code: PARTY35 for 35% off.

Night Routine: Cleanse, Restore, Sleep

At night, it is non-negotiable: I double-cleanse my face.

Not because I wear a full face of makeup, I usually do not, but because the air is filthy.

Pollution, sunscreen, whatever is floating around out there, it all needs to go.

• La Roche-Posay Lipikar Oil Cleanser – Gentle, hydrating, and removes everything. It breaks down makeup effortlessly, even waterproof stuff, and still leaves my skin soft, not stripped. Their Gentle Hydrating Cleanser is also good!

• Kiehl’s Avocado Eye Cream – Hydrates and softens. I told my cousin I felt like I needed Botox under my eyes. She said, “No you do not,” so I bought this instead.

• Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Oil (New Addition) – During girls’ night, this was said to be a must-have. I picked it up during Kiehl’s SALE. It adds a little glow and feels like quiet luxury.

• Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream with Squalane – Same as the morning—because why mess with what works?

Why This Works for Me

This routine is:

• Hydrating, not heavy

• Simple, not boring

• Consistent, not complicated

It is easy, it is gentle, and it makes me feel like I am doing something good for myself every single day.

And I love that for me.

Skincare rule: Do not let your neck betray you.

Youthful face + moisturized neck = aging gracefully together.

For Anyone Who’s Overwhelmed

If you are building your routine or trying to simplify things, here is what I have learned:

You do not need a shelf full of products. You just need a few that your skin responds to, and that you enjoy using.

Start simple:

Cleanser + Moisturizer + Sunscreen

What about you?

Are you a routine lover or a product explorer?

Drop your faves or your ride-or-die skincare items in the comments.

I always love hearing what works for other people, even if I am not changing up anytime soon.

Uncategorized

Waffleto Brunch & Waffles: Worth the Hype or Another Overrated Spot?

sharondashariee

Waffleto Brunch & Waffles: Worth the Hype or Another Overrated Spot?

Can We Talk About Social Media Food Hype?

The way I am so tired of over-hyped TikTok and Instagram eateries. Social media has disappointed me too many times with perfect reels, staged bites, and then… underwhelming food.

So, when my husband showed me an impressively edited reel for Waffleto Brunch & Waffles in Goodyear, AZ, and asked if I wanted to try it, I gave him a non-committal, “I guess.”

First Impressions: Busy but Welcoming

We pulled up around 11 a.m. on a Saturday. It was busy, but we didn’t have to wait, major win. The place is a small sit-down brunch spot with a casual, open feel. We were greeted right away and handed menus, which gave us a moment to look things over before ordering.

Waffleto Menu: Sweet Meets Savory

Waffleto’s menu offers hearty savory waffles and over-the-top sweet creations. in a good way:

Savory Options Include:

  • Fried egg, bacon, and spinach
  • Chorizo and egg
  • Grilled chicken with pesto
  • Omelets and traditional breakfast plates (for the non-waffle folks)

Sweet Options:

  • Strawberries and cream (with seasonal berries, but you can request strawberries only)
  • Peaches and cream
  • Nutella-topped waffles

👉 Check out their full menu here

What We Ordered

We split our meal:

  • One Fried Egg, Bacon, and Spinach Waffleto (no syrup drizzle—because I don’t trust the drizzler!)
  • One Berries Waffleto (strawberries only)

You can split your waffle between savory and sweet, which we loved—it felt like a brunch plate and dessert all in one.

And I have to mention this, the home-fried breakfast potatoes were delicious. I live for a good breakfast potato, and these hit the mark. Crispy on the outside, tender inside, and perfectly seasoned. Don’t skip them.

Watching the Waffle Magic Happen

The open kitchen gave us a view of the action, and I noticed the waffles looked darker than I prefer more brown than golden. I’m a light, fluffy, slight-crunch-on-the-edge kind of waffle girl.

When I asked about it, our server reassured us that the color comes from the batter, not overcooking, and they’re still soft inside. She was right. The waffles were perfectly cooked, lightly sweet, and honestly, some of the best I’ve had.

Is Waffleto Worth the Trip?

If you’re in the Goodyear, Avondale, or West Phoenix area—yes, Waffleto is worth a stop.

If you have to drive far or wait in a long line? Maybe not. It’s good, but not a “drive across the Valley and wait an hour” kind of place. That said, Waffleto delivers on flavor and creativity, and the service was on point.

Waffleto Brunch & Waffles Location + Hours

Heads up: If you love breakfast for dinner, this isn’t your spot. They close early and stick to brunch hours.

🕒 Hours:
Monday – Friday: 8 AM – 2 PM
Saturday & Sunday: 8 AM – 3 PM

📍 406 N. Litchfield Rd., Ste 208
Goodyear, AZ 85338

Final Thoughts

Waffleto might not be the viral hotspot you travel for, but it’s definitely a local gem if you’re nearby. The flavors are solid, the sweet/savory combo is fun, and the vibe is low-key and relaxed.

Have you tried Waffleto or any other social media-famous food spots that were actually worth it? Let me know in the comments or over on Instagram @SharondaShariee (yes, I’m posting again!).

Uncategorized

Turning 45: A Journey of Healing, Compassion and Introspection Post-Breast Cancer

sharondashariee

Year 45 Looks Like This

Year 45 Looks Like This

I turned 45 one month ago. When I look in the mirror at 45, I see a breast cancer survivor. I see my body that has changed, scarred, but healed. I see the breast I got to keep, after being diagnosed with Triple Negative Breast Cancer-Metaplastic. And I see the weight of what I’ve carried to still be here.

Let’s Be Clear—It Was Damn Hard

Because let me be clear: my journey was DAMN HARD.

Keeping my breast didn’t mean I was spared. It didn’t protect me from the soul-deep fatigue, the emotional unraveling, the fear that clung to my chest like a second skin. It didn’t soften the blow of hearing the words “you have cancer.” It didn’t shield me from the sleepless nights, the waiting, the wondering. The trauma is real and it lives in my bones.

And still, I KNOW I’m one of the ones who was graced to be here.

A Moment That Shifted Something in Me

One day, I was talking with another survivor in the credit union. I had told her I had also been through breast cancer. So, we were sharing pieces of our journeys. When I initially shared, she looked at me, then her eyes dropped briefly to my chest. I still had both of my breasts, and she didn’t.

It was just a moment. But it echoed.

That look wasn’t judgment. It wasn’t bitterness. But it held a silent, heavy knowing. It was grief. A moment of recognition. And in that second, I felt something deep in my spirit crack open, not with guilt, but with compassion for her.

I Don’t Carry Guilt—But I Do Carry Compassion

It hurt to see her pain, even if it wasn’t spoken aloud. It hurt to know that she, too, had fought for her life, and paid for it in a way that I didn’t have to.

But I didn’t feel guilty.

Because I know I deserved my healing. I know I fought for it. I know I earned every piece of this breath, this birthday.

What I felt was something different:

Grief for what she lost.
Grief for what so many women lose.
A wish that we could all come through this with less taken from us.

There’s No Hierarchy in Healing

That’s what I carry as I turn 45.

Not survivor’s guilt, because I’m not ashamed of surviving.

But a survivor’s compassion.

A knowing that while I still have both of my breasts, that doesn’t make my survival softer or hers any less strong.

There is no hierarchy in healing.

No one gets to measure our pain, our losses, or our courage.

We all walked through the fire.

The Now: 10 Months Out

Health-wise, I’m now 10 months out from active chemo.

I’m still in the phase of follow-up appointments every three months, and I take each one seriously, because peace of mind doesn’t come easy after cancer.

Physically, I’m still rebuilding. Regaining strength. Finding mobility. Learning this new version of my body and honoring her limits and her resilience.

It’s a slow climb, slower than I would have ever imagined, but every step forward is still a victory.

To Those Still in the Fight

To every woman who is still in the thick of it. Whether you were just diagnosed, you’re navigating treatment, or you’re facing each day in uncertainty, know that you are not alone. Your courage, even in the quiet moments even when you don’t feel strong. I know the fear, the exhaustion, the waiting, the wondering. And I want you to know that your fight matters. You are in the fire, doing the hardest thing of all, showing up for your life every single day. Keep going! Space is being held for your healing. Rooting for your breakthrough. You are part of this sisterhood we did not choose, but we are with you.

To My Fellow Survivors: I See You

To every woman who made it through breast cancer, whether you kept your breast(s), lost, rebuilt, or chose not to, I see you. I feel the strength that radiates from your soul.

You are not defined by what was taken.

You are glorious in what you reclaimed. YOUR LIFE.

Year 45, Braids, and Deep Gratitude

At 45, I celebrate life, not just mine, but the lives of every woman who’s still here, still healing, still figuring out who she is now.

AND my hair has grown back long enough to finally get braids again. Yes, I went with the MOST, waist length, because I can.

I feel deep gratitude to be able to say, I am WELL.

With love,
Sharonda

P.S. The Birthday Celebration Blog

Toes in the Sand in Mexico

Sign up for email notifications so you never miss a post, and stay tuned for the full recap of my week-long birthday trip to one of my favorite places, Mexico!

Family Travel, family-travel, Living, Travel, Travel with Kids

20 Frequent Asked Carnival Cruise Questions You’re Probably Already Wondering About

sharondashariee

20 Frequent Asked Carnival Cruise Questions You’re Probably Already Wondering About

And yes, I’ve got answers. Let’s get you cruise-ready, without the overwhelm.

Planning your first (or fifteenth) Carnival Cruise? Whether you’re traveling with your partner, your kids, or your crew, there are always questions that pop up before you set sail. And if you’re anything like me, you want real answers from someone who’s been there, not a maze of fine print (but I include links with all that too).

So I rounded up 20 of the most frequently asked cruise questions, from what to pack to how not to lose your Sail & Sign card. Let’s break it all the way down.

Before You Sail: Planning & Prep

1. Do I need a passport to go on a Carnival Cruise?

If your cruise is closed-loop (starts and ends in the same U.S. port), a birth certificate + photo ID works. But a passport is the safest option in case of emergencies.
→ Carnival’s official ID requirements

2. Are cruise fares refundable if I can’t go?

It depends on how early you cancel. The closer you get to your sail date, the less you’ll get back.
→ Carnival’s cancellation policy
Pro tip: Consider adding Carnival Vacation Protection for coverage and peace of mind.

3. Is there a minimum age to cruise?

Yes—6 months old for most cruises, 12 months for longer or exotic ones. And anyone under 21 must sail with someone 25 or older in the same room.
→ Carnival’s minor guest policy

4. Can I bring my water bottle or canteen?

Yep! Bring your reusable bottle and refill it at water stations onboard. Insulated bottles are clutch for port days.

5. Can I bring snacks or drinks onboard?

You can bring sealed snacks and one 12-pack of non-alcoholic drinks (cans or cartons) per person. No glass bottles, no liquor (unless it’s the one bottle of wine per adult).
→ Carnival beverage policy

Cabins, Cards & Spending

6. How many people can sleep in a stateroom cabin?

Most cabins fit 2–4 people, and some family rooms or suites fit up to 5. For bigger groups, connecting rooms are your best friend.

7. What can I use so I don’t lose my Sail & Sign card?

Get a lanyard with a pouch. It keeps your card handy for everything. Room access, purchases, boarding, and getting on and off the ship at ports of call.

8. Do kids have access to money on the ship?

Yes, through their Sail & Sign card. It works like a debit card onboard.

9. Can I put a spending limit on my child’s Sail & Sign card?

Absolutely! You can cap or block spending for kids and teens right in your Carnival Account or at Guest Services.

10. Are gratuities (tips) included?

They’re automatically added—about $16–$18 per person/day depending on your cabin. You can prepay or adjust onboard.
→ Gratuities explained

Life Onboard: Food, Fun & Feeling Good

11. What’s included in the cruise fare?

Your room, all meals (excluding specialty dining), drinks (water, tea, lemondade and juice during breakfast), pools, shows, and onboard activities. You’ll pay extra for Wi-Fi, excursions, soda, alcohol drinks, and spa services.

12. Is Wi-Fi available on board?

Yes, but it’s not free!  Carnival has 3 plans: Social, Value, and Premium.
→ Carnival Wi-Fi packages

13. Is there bottled water on the ship? How much does it cost?

Yes.. You can pre-order a case to your room or while on the ship through room service.

14. Do people get sick on cruises?

Sometimes. Sea sickness or colds are the most common.
Tips to avoid it:
– Book a mid-ship, lower deck room
– Bring Dramamine, Sea-Bands, or ginger chews
– Drink plenty of water, avoid heavy meals prior to sailing, and get fresh air while on board
→ Carnival’s health guidelines

15. What should I wear on the cruise?

Daytime: swimsuits, casual wear.
Evening: cruise casual with a couple “Cruise Elegant” nights (think cocktail dresses or slacks & button-ups).
→ Carnival dress code

In Port & On Excursions

16. Are shore excursions worth it?

Yes, if you want more than beach time or walking along the piers. Carnival offers excursions for every vibe. Relaxing, adventurous, foodie approved. You can also wait and book an excursion on your own.  Just don’t miss that ship. No, but seriously, don’t miss the ship.

17. Is cruising good for families or couples?

Both. There’s something for everyone: waterparks and kids’ clubs for families, adults-only spaces and spas for couples. You set the tone and the vibe you want to have while sailing.

Packing & Practical Tips

18. What should I NOT pack for a cruise?

Leave these at home:
– Irons or steamers
– Candles/incense
– Drones
– Surge protectors
– Alcohol (unless it’s your one wine bottle)
→ Carnival prohibited items

19. How do I stay in touch with my family and friends that are on the ship?

Use the Carnival Hub app to chat for just $5 per person (no Wi-Fi plan needed).
Some families also bring mini walkie-talkies. Great for kids or those who don’t use phones much. Just know the signal works best on open decks.

20. Is cruising worth it?

Absolutely. You unpack once, wake up somewhere new every day, and everything you need is right there on the ship. Whether you want relaxation, nonstop fun, or a little of both, you’re covered.

Final Cruise Tips from Me to You:

– Download the Carnival Hub App before you board
– Bring a power strip (non-surge) for extra outlets
– Take a photo of your passport and ID just in case
– Don’t forget meds, sunscreen, and comfy shoes
– Pack the patience, good vibes, have a blast

Want more cruise tips, destination guides, or family travel ideas?
💌 Subscribe to my blog or follow me on Instagram @SharondaShariee for the real, real.

Let me know what else you’re curious about—if you’re wondering, someone else probably is too. I got you!

Appetizer, cocktails, Date Night, Dining Out, Food Opinion, Good Food, Restaurant Review, Things-to-Do, Wine, Wine Tasting

Copper & Sage – The Restaurant Meal That Defined 2024 and Will Keep Me Coming Back in 2025

sharondashariee

Copper & Sage Goodyear – Dinner

I am about to share the best dining tip you will ever get. Order as many dishes as your budget allows. Share them with your party.  Trust me, you will want to savor as much as possible from Copper & Sage’s incredible menu. Here is what my friends and I ordered during our visit:

Shareables:

  • Bourbon Deviled Eggs – $9
  • Fried Green Tomatoes – $12

Main Dishes:

  • Walleye Fish & Chips – $27
  • 2 Wagyu Short Ribs with Parmesan Risotto – $39 each

Dessert:

  • Beignets – Complimentary

Side:

  • Mac & Cheese – $10

Cocktails:

  • Holy Water – $13
  • Riesling – $9
  • Strawberry Hill – $14

There were three of us in our party, and this was more than enough food for everyone to enjoy.

The Dish That Defined 2024

Hands down, the showstopper was the Wagyu Short Rib with Parmesan Risotto. This dish typically comes with grits. We noticed risotto paired with another dish on the menu. We asked if we could make the switch.  Our request was graciously granted, and it was the best decision we could have made. The tender, flavorful short rib combined with the creamy, cheesy risotto melted in our mouths. It was so good we ordered two plates of it!

Wagyu Short Rib with Parmesan Risotto

But before I get carried away with the main courses, let us talk about the appetizers.

Star-Worthy Appetizers

Fried Green Tomatoes

To date, I have only had one other fried green tomato dish that wowed me as much as this one. That was in Atlanta.  Copper & Sage has officially joined that list. Their perfectly fried green tomatoes are topped with a sprinkle of chevre cheese. A balsamic reduction ties everything together beautifully. Every bite had us saying, “Ohhh, okay! Yum.  This is amazing.”

Fried Green Tomatoes

Bourbon Deviled Eggs

I love it when restaurants elevate classic dishes, and Copper & Sage’s Bourbon Deviled Eggs did not disappoint. Instead of the usual candied bacon topping, they added bacon jam—and wow.  If the phrase “bacon jam” gives you pause, do not hesitate. It is a game-changer.

Bourbon Deviled Eggs

A Second Main Dish Worth Mentioning

The Walleye Fish & Chips was another standout.  Some might find the fish a bit crispier than expected. However, this is exactly how fried fish should be. It should be crispy, crunchy, and seasoned to perfection.  This dish could easily hold its own as a satisfying lunch option.

Walleye Fish & Chips

I almost failed to mention the side of Mac & Cheese. I would not order the mac & cheese again. It was not giving what mac & cheese was supposed to give. Copper & Sage, if you read this: more cheese and cream, and this might make my recommendations list.

Macaroni and Cheese

A Sweet Finale (Almost)

Normally, we do not have room for dessert. However, we were celebrating my friend’s birthday. Copper & Sage generously provided complimentary beignets for the table.  They had great potential, but a few weren’t fully cooked in the center. My tip? Ask for the beignets to be cooked well-done.  I will be giving them another shot on my next visit.

Beignets

Drinks to Celebrate

As part of the birthday festivities, we indulged in some delicious cocktails.  Copper & Sage has an extensive house menu and a full bar to accommodate any request.  The Holy Water and Strawberry Hill cocktails were refreshing. They were perfectly balanced. The Riesling was a light and crisp addition to the meal.

Holy Water
Strawberry Hill
Riesling

Why I Will Be Back in 2025

As soon as I got home, I told my husband that Copper & Sage was the Restaurant Meal That Defined 2024.  I am already planning a return trip.  This might even be our Valentine’s Day outing next month.

If you are in the area, do not miss out on this gem.

Location Visited:
Copper & Sage Goodyear
1975 N Globe Dr, Goodyear, AZ 85338
https://copperandsageaz.com/
#copperandsageaz