Category: Self-Care

Living, Self-Care, Things-to-Do, Travel, Tutorials, Wine, Wine Tasting

Think Wine Tasting, but with Coffee: My Experience at Press Coffee Roaster’s Interactive 101 Class

sharondashariee

Think Wine Tasting, but with Coffee: My Experience at Press Coffee Roaster’s Interactive 101 Class

When I signed up for Press Coffee’s 101 class, I wasn’t entirely convinced that I’d walk out a coffee aficionado. But as it turns out, I left with some serious coffee knowledge.  Everything from where coffee originates, to how it’s processed, to what it takes to get it from the farm to your cup.

I stumbled upon this class thanks to Eventbrite’s “events you might like” feature (they know me so well), and seeing Press Coffee’s name didn’t hurt.  Press Coffee is always listed as one of the valley’s premier coffee roasters.  After all, they have 12 locations around Arizona and even supply coffee to multiple retail spots across the valley.

The Scene at Press Coffee

We arrived to find Press buzzing with coffee drinkers in the front, some sipping and socializing, others laser-focused on laptops.  In the back, there’s a spacious second level for more seating, but we stayed downstairs, where three enormous coffee bean roasters sat in all their luxuriousness, along with our cozy 12-person classroom setup.  It was perfect for both tasting and learning.

Our host welcomed us with a steamy cup of Gesha coffee.  This rare, high-end coffee ($50 per cup, just FYI!) has a unique profile that’s more tea-like than coffee-like, and he wasn’t kidding.  It was a delicate, almost floral flavor, unlike anything I’d tasted in coffee form.

The Class Kicks Off

From there, we dove into the rich world of coffee.  We learned about origins, flavors, and roasting techniques.  A cool part of the tasting was letting each blend cool down a bit and then trying it again.  Who knew a little time could bring out so many different notes?

My Favorite Coffee Roast

My favorite roast was Brazil Mogiano for its boldness, but it was also subtle. I like a medium roast. Right up the middle. My husband? He was into them all!

Behind-the-Scenes of Coffee Bean Roasting

We wrapped up with a behind-the-scenes look at the roasters and even learned about the farm Press Coffee owns, which supplies their unique beans.  If you love coffee, want a fun outing with friends, or cool date idea, I can’t recommend this class enough. And yes, you even get a code for a free bag of coffee with a subscription (no pressure to keep it, but why wouldn’t you?!).

Press Coffee 101 Details, Sign-Up, and Cost

So, who’s ready to sip like a pro?

Breast Cancer, Breast Cancer Awareness, Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, Self-Care, TNBC, Triple Negative Breast Cancer, Uncategorized

Finding Solace: Breast Cancer Comforts & Necessities

sharondashariee

As I journeyed through breast cancer, I found moments of solace in various practices and resources that helped navigate the challenges I faced.  I began to collect these treasures, soothing tools, and accommodations to share with others who might be facing similar struggles.

Below is a list of items that offered me comfort and strength, not just during my treatment, but even now.

This journey is ever evolving, and I will continue to update this list with new discoveries.  My hope is these suggestions offer support to anyone navigating their own path.

Feel free to share this list with anyone who might find it helpful, and I invite you to contribute your own suggestions in the comments, reminding each other that we are never alone in this journey.

Keep reaching for what soothes your soul!

Baseball Cap Wig Hat

Cable Knit Beanie

NPTressTreats
Satin Scarves

Straw with Lid
Plastic Water Bottle

Hydro Cell Stainless Steel Water Bottle

Air Innovations Humidifier

The Handbook of
Bible Application

Tums Chewy Bites

Bamboo
Shower Bench

MiraLAX Mix-In Pax

Biotene Dry Mouth

CeraVe Healing Ointment

Handheld Thermometer

Tucks Pads

PreparationH

Thin Knit Slouchy Caps

Dr. Teal’s Salt Soak

Pepcid AC Complete

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Home Improvement, Living, Self-Care, Uncategorized

Overwhelmed by Paper? Discover How Assured Document Destruction Can Save Your Space and Sanity!

sharondashariee

Assured Document Destruction

Look, Do Not Ask Me How We Got Here

We found ourselves facing an overwhelming paper crisis—an ever-growing mountain of confidential documents dating back seven to eight years.  As I stared at the bags and bags of papers, we always kept what we deemed “important,” but it seemed like we had miscalculated just how much “important” really added up to.

128 Gallons of Papers to Shred

In my quest to find a solution, I finally decided I could trust Assured Document Destruction.  If you, too, are staring at your own growing pile of paperwork and feeling like it is taking over your home, let me introduce you to the solution that saved us—and could save you too!

Why Assured Document Destruction?

Here is why Assured Document Destruction should be your go-to for paper shredding and document destruction:

1. Security First: When my document destruction specialist pulled up to my home in the destruction truck.  Yes, they pull-up in the destruction truck and shred on the premises. More about that in a few.  The specialist explained how our documents are shredded beyond recovery, using state-of-the-art equipment and processes that adhere to the highest security standards.

2. Convenience is Key: One of the best features of their service is how convenient it is. You do not have to drag your piles of paper to a facility.  Instead, they offer on-site shredding, so you can watch your documents be destroyed right at your location.  This eliminates any concerns about data breaches during transport and saves you time and hassle.

3. Eco-Friendly Practices: In today’s world, being environmentally conscious is as important as safeguarding information.  After shredding, the paper is recycled, ensuring that your old documents contribute to a greener planet rather than ending up in a landfill.  How cool is that?

4. Value for Money: They understand that value is about more than just cost. With Assured Document Destruction, you get a combination of secure service and excellent value. Their transparent pricing ensures that you know exactly what you are paying for—no hidden fees or surprises.  Quite honestly, this is what moved Assured Document Destruction to the top of my list very quickly.  The value for the money.

How it Works in 3 easy steps

Using Assured Document Destruction is simple and straightforward.

Here’s a quick overview of the process:

1. Get an Instant Quote: Visit their website and get a quote in minutes. This is your first step to a clutter-free space. Visit here: (www.shreddingphx.com)

2. Schedule: Your Service: Once you have your quote, schedule a convenient time for your shredding service. They will collaborate with you to find a slot that fits your schedule.

3. Shredding Day: On the day of your service, their team arrives with high-powered shredding equipment.

Assured Document Destruction High-Powered Shredding Trucks

How much was the service?

Total Cost: The 1st and 2nd 64-gallon bin are $63 each (Minimum Charge: $126.00 + $3.00 Fuel Service Charge) = $129

Assured Document Destruction 64-Gallon Document Shred Bins

Assured Document Destruction also allows you to bring your important papers, and hard drives, to their facility for destruction.

If you choose to not use Assured Document Destruction, find a secured document service in your area for your document destruction needs.

Have you used a shredding service?  Is this a service you can see yourself utilizing for yourself?

Address:

Assured Document Destruction

930 S. 67th Avenue

Phoenix, AZ 85043

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Living, Mexico Adventures, Mexico Excursions, Mexico Travel, Out the Country Travel, practical-hotels, Self-Care, Things-to-Do, Travel, Travel with Kids

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico’s-Rhythms of the Night by Vallarta Adventures

sharondashariee

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico’s Rhythms of the Night by Vallarta Adventures

When we went to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, I had one thing in mind, to RELAX. I did not want to do the usual excursion, city hopping, out all hours of the night, that we usually do. Sleeping, eating, and sitting by the pool were the only things on the agenda.

View from Oceanview AirBnB in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Click for Listing.

Until I stumbled upon a Puerto Vallarta post in one of the travel groups, suggesting that anyone going to Puerto Vallarta MUST do, “Rhythms of the Night” by Vallarta Adventures. Initially it was just my husband, me, my best friend, and her husband travelling, but my daughter talked us into letting her come along.  My friend then brought her daughter as well.

The girls enjoying the beach in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Phoenix to Puerto Vallarta

We flew from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport to Puerto Vallarta International Airport, non-stop.  It was important to me to leave the country, with a short flight time.  Our flight was two and half hours.

We booked this Airbnb with a gorgeous view. The view was mandatory considering that my agenda consisted of merely breathing, lounging, eating, and sitting by the pool.

Oceanview Airbnb in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Click for listing.

We headed into the city one of the days, for about three hours, but the activity that had every one of us in amazement was the Rhythms of the Night sunset cruise, dinner, and show.

Dinner in the city Puerto Vallarta, Mexico La Madalena Restaurant

Puerto Vallarta’s Rhythms of the Night

I purchased tickets to the show in advance from Puerto Vallarta Tours, $116 for adults and $109 for kids, 6-17 years old.  We received 30% off for booking more than four days in advance.  Regular or same-day pricing was $165 for adults and $155 for kids.

TIP 1: Book more than four days in advance to take advantage of 30% off regular ticket pricing.

The day of the tour, I used my very beginner Spanish to hale us a taxi and to get us to the dock where we boarded the boat.  Honestly, you do not need to know Spanish to get a taxi and arrive at your destination safely. However, I find every opportunity to practice.

Once we arrived at the ferry station, we made our way to the line where we presented our tickets, then we went through a security check. Yes, a security check, like in the airport.  Check the Vallarta Adventures website for prohibited items.

We boarded the boat, where there was a bar and plenty seating. I suggest getting there well before departure, so your group can sit together.  The suggested arrival time is 45 minutes prior to departure.

We arrived on the island where the Rhythms of the Night show takes place in about 30-45 minutes.  There was onboard entertainment, where they sang American songs, most people would be familiar with.  People danced and sang along.

It is a whole experience as soon as you step foot on the boat, let alone once you make it to the tiki lit island. 

Review Puerto Vallarta’s-Rhythms of the Night by Vallarta Adventures
Tiki Island Arrival

TIP 2:  Book the sunset cruise time.  There is an earlier day show, but the sunset booking time is more exquisite.

We were seated in designated areas around the island and assigned a dinner station.  Dinner was buffet style.  We had a traditional Mexican dinner.

We had a waiter who served drinks and any additional items you may want from the buffet.

After about an hour and a half, the staff began to clear the tables, and we waited to be dismissed. 

TIP 3: Use the restroom before you head to the stadium for the show.

We travelled to the stadium up large, flat, rocked stairs.  We stood in line for about 15 minutes before we could enter the stadium.  This activity is not recommended if you have difficulties doing a slight hike.

I would like to describe the show, but it is indescribable.  It is something to be experienced.  Here is glimpse of the amazingness we witnessed.

Review Puerto Vallarta’s-Rhythms of the Night by Vallarta Adventures

The entire crew from start to finish conducted this experience flawlessly.  If you need any more convincing, check their reviews.  Perfection.

Review Puerto Vallarta’s-Rhythms of the Night by Vallarta Adventures

Cost & Booking

Total Cost: $341 (included ferry ride, dinner, and show for three people)

Booked Rhythm of the Nights by Vallarta Adventures here:  https://www.vallarta-adventures.com/en

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Breast Cancer, Breast Cancer Awareness, Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, Metaplastic, Self-Care, TNBC, Triple Negative Breast Cancer

03-Triple Negative Breast Cancer – Metaplastic – Update & Hair Loss

sharondashariee

Before I was diagnosed with Invasive Ductal Carcinoma Breast Cancer, I thought you lost your hair from having cancer, in general. I quickly learned I was losing my hair from the chemotherapy drugs that were given through IV infusions.

I kept most of my hair for the first 3-4 weeks of TNBC treatment, and my daughter slowly trimmed it away as it started to shed. Losing my hair was absolutely devastating. Those that know me, knew I prided myself in the maintenance of my natural hair. Folks would say, it will grow back, but that is NOT what I wanted to hear or even the point for that matter. Unknown to people who have not had a personal experience with cancer, everyone’s hair does not ALWAYS grow back.

Nine months into my Triple Negative Breast Cancer journey, I still have not allowed myself to be completely in public without a head covering. It feels naked. It feels as-if my whole self is not present. It feels and looks like even though the breast cancer is gone, it is still here.

Oh yes, I had my lumpectomy surgery. By the time you read this, it would have been about eight weeks ago. Recovery was hard and painful at first, but the process has eased up, mostly. The surgeon was successful in removing the remaining cancer chemotherapy did not kill. The surgeon was also able to obtain clear margins. No cancer cells in the surrounding breast tissue. CANCER FREE! A VICTORY!

Next step is radiation. Radiation therapy to the diseased breast, every day for the next five weeks. Radiation therapy does not make you feel ill, like chemotherapy. However, you are tired and want to lay down 12 hours out of the day. There is some darkening of the treated breast, and soreness, but I have not had any skin breakage, or burning. I am confident that it will stay that way, with my current routine of not letting the entire breast get dried. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize seems like the winning plan.

My Triple Negative Invasive Ductal Carcinoma breast cancer diagnosis changed after surgery from TNBC – Invasive Ductal Carcinoma to TNBC – Metaplastic. Rarer than they thought, and Metaplastic has a higher rate of recurrence. Radiation therapy cleans up any microscopic cancer cells that are unseen and reduces the chance of recurrence. Radiation therapy does not cause hair loss, so I am focused on doing as much as I can to gain that part of myself back, without obsessing and doing too much.

I have not seen many black women on the socials diagnosed with breast cancer, updating their hair growth journey. As vulnerable as it is, I decided to share my journey in hopes that it helps someone. The below pictures are 2 1/2 months post chemotherapy treatment. I have hair again, ya’ll (insert happy tears)! Look at my eyebrows too. haha

Currently I am keeping it simple using these products:

Aunt Jackie’s Biotin & Rosemary Hair & Scalp Oil – I apply the scalp oil once a day in the evenings.

Shampoo – I use a scalp massager and shampoo my scalp as needed.

Jamaican Black Castor Oil – I apply the castor oil once a day in the mornings.

As always, if you have any questions that you feel may help you along your Triple Negative Invasive Ductal Carcinoma or Metaplastic breast cancer journey, reach out to me in the comments or send an email.

All of you guys who have prayed for me, checked up on me, visited me, and everything in between, thank you with my whole heart! xoxo