Category: Uncategorized

Uncategorized

8 Non-Fiction Books That Will Transform Your Thinking – A Curated List

sharondashariee

I mostly read non-fiction, with just a little fiction mixed in, so my recommendations, of year’s past definitely lean that way. And let’s be honest, there’s no shortage of self-help books or celebrity life stories out there, and after a while, a lot of them start to sound the same. These are a few that really stood out to me over the years. The Top Non-Fiction Book Recommendations That Inspire, Transform, and Educate.

Each book title or cover links to Amazon, so you can snag a copy and start reading. Highlighting and note-taking encouraged!

Atomic Habits –
James Clear

Atomic Habits is one of those books that actually lives up to the hype. It breaks down how small, everyday habits can lead to big, lasting change without feeling overwhelming. I appreciated how practical and relatable it was. No fluff, just simple shifts that are easy to apply in real life, to any area. It’s the kind of book that quietly changes the way you approach your routines and goals.

The Garden Within –
Dr. Anita Phillips

The Garden Within is a fascinating read that blends science, psychology, and spirituality. I loved it because it explores how God created us in ways that mirror the natural world, showing how our minds and hearts are deeply connected to the patterns of life around us. It gives you a new way of seeing yourself and the world.

What Happened To You? –
Bruce D. Perry &
Oprah Winfrey

What Happened to You is an exploration of how our early life experiences shape who we become. Oprah and Dr. Bruce Perry dive into trauma, resilience, and healing with compassion and insight. I found myself gasped so much along the way, and the book shifts the focus from asking “What’s wrong with you?” to the more meaningful question, “What happened to you?” It’s eye-opening, thoughtful, and causes you to pause when observing the world.

Pro Tip:

Audiobooks read by the author are superior, but for non-fiction, having a copy to highlight and take notes makes it easier to revisit and reference over the years.

Finding Me –
Viola Davis

I thoroughly enjoyed Viola Davis’s book and was honestly shocked by her story. There were so many moments where I learned something new, and a few times I had to put it down just to process what she went through—especially hearing about her experiences as a child. Having Viola read the audiobook in her own voice made it even more powerful and emotional. It’s raw and unforgettable, and it’s definitely a read I’ll remember forever.

The Power of Now –
Eckhart Tolle

Let’s be real, there are a lot of “self-help” books out there so I’m not sure how I found this gem, but I’m glad I did. If you’ve found yourself living in the past, or like me, constantly thinking about the future, instead of living in the NOW then I highly suggest you read The Power of Now.

Year of Yes –
Shonda Rhimes

If you live life by routine, afraid to step out of your comfort zone, find yourself as an introvert but constantly think what if, The Year of Yes by Shonda Rhimes is a go-to narrative on how to get started saying Yes to things you normally wouldn’t do.

The Four Agreements –
Don Miguel Ruiz

This book has floated around the web, been the topic of many conversations for years. The Four Agreements Ruiz covers are: Be impeccable with your word; Don’t take anything personally. Don’t make assumptions. Always do your best. Pick it up, as a starting point for every part of life.

The War of Art –
Steven Pressfield

Years ago, when I thought to start my blog, I researched all things blogging and how to get out there and start writing. I came across, the War of Art. This book is not only for writers, but anyone who is in a creative space, or have a “thing” they keep putting off but know in your heart it is what you’re suppose to be doing. Your passion. Why do we do that, put things off, needing it to be “perfect”? This book gives insight on why and how to overcome this obstacle that we battle within us.

Final Thoughts

These books stand out to me not because they promise quick fixes, but because they leave a lasting impact. Each one offers perspective, honesty, and lessons that I reference when attempting to be a better version of myself.

If you enjoy meaningful non-fiction that challenges the way you think and feel, I hope one of these resonates with you as much as they do with me.

For My Other Book Recommendations – Click Here

Progress with Presence.

Onward, curious
Sharonda

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!

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

Leave a comment

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

Leave a comment