Rolling the Dice On My Life
Remember the New Year’s post I wrote, 2009 is mine? I wrote words that were meant to inspire and electrify, but I didn’t explicitly state the kind of changes I had in store.
When I said: “2009 is MINE.
My year to grab life by the reins. My year to be the change I’ve been looking for. My year to stop wishing and hoping and praying for things that are within my grasp. MY. YEAR.”
I meant every word of it.
The time has come. I’m taking what I said to heart, and I have a big announcement to make.
I put in notice at my day job last week. My last day will be in mid-February.
I’m sure I don’t have to tell you all (or go into details about) the whys and wherefores of my decision. Just know that it wasn’t an easy one.
This August would have been five years that I worked as an editor of the calendar section of the Miami New Times. While I was at this job, I’ve enjoyed some wonderful opportunities, interviewed celebrities I admire, and even managed to have two cover stories. They’re framed and hang in a place of pride in my living room.
Because of my job, I learned how to drive, bought a car (that’s since been discontinued by the automaker, but I digress), and became a stronger, more confident person and a better writer. I made amazing friends, had crazy experiences, and discovered new things about myself and the world. There are many aspects of my job that I will sincerely miss.
So why am I leaving all this behind? Why trade a secure thing for an unknown quantity, especially in a season where job numbers are in the toilet and the economy seems way too shaky?
Quite simply — it was my time. And that’s not all.
My husband and I have made the decision to leave Miami. We’ve called the 305 home for ten years now. And we’re ready for new adventures and opportunities in another great American city. Which brings me to announcement number two!
Afrobella’s moving to Chicago!!
If you’ve been reading for a while, you already know I love the city. My in-laws live there, we’ve got wonderful friends who live there, and I honestly see it as a city of opportunity.
With journalism taking the tragic downslide it has taken, I’m considering all kinds of ways to reinvent myself and make use of the valuable skills I gained through working for a newspaper. In Chi-town, there are so many places, people, and organizations I’d love to work with — obviously there’s Oprah (hello!) and EbonyJet.com. Then there’s the Shedd Aquarium or the Field Museum, the Lincoln Park Zoo, or PAWS Chicago, the city’s largest No Kill humane organization.
Right now, Nas’ I Can feels like my theme song. I know I can be what I wanna be. If I work hard at it, I’ll be where I wanna be.
In the meantime, I’m job hunting, working on some really exciting Afrobella projects, and actively seeking paid freelance opportunities. If you’re a magazine editor, blogger, or just in need of a strong, professional writer with proven skills, drop me an e mail at bella@afrobella.com.
I can’t lie, bellas and fellas. This was a big, scary decision that took a long time to make. This isn’t advice I’d give to anybody right now. But it was time for me to stop talking about it and start being about it. I figure, I’m young enough, talented enough, and I have a lot to offer the world. And gosh darn it, people like me. So screw conventional wisdom and conservative advice — right now, I’m rolling the dice! And I feel lucky. And brave.
Thankfully, I’ve got the complete and unwavering support of my husband and our families. And you. Yes, you. Because without those of you who click on those ads and leave comments and come to visit and drop knowledge on this blog every day… without Afrobella being the strong, empowering community that it is, I couldn’t have made this leap of faith. And finally, I can take Afrobella to the next level. 2009, I’m gonna shine!
Wish me luck!
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Wow. 100 comments! I feel so overwhelmed with love and support. Thank you ALL for your blessings. They mean so very much. I can’t wait until I can finally focus my attentions completely on Afrobella. It’s going to be amazing.
Can’t remember who asked, but yes – moving to the city, and I do plan on hosting events eventually! I’d love to put together an Afrobella ladies’ night out shopping event someday. And Bebroma and Apple Diva — you’re close but not just yet! Of course I’ll let you know when a little Afrobella’s on the way. =)
Oprah here you come!!!! I can see it!!!!
Congratulations Bella! I know that you will continue to do the great things in Chicago, and will enjoy a whole new level of exploration of life’s beauty.
BTW, thank you for the great post on Black dolls back in November. I recently bought Cecile (Corelle doll) for a Francophile friend, and she fell instantly in love with her! Thank you for giving us as readers the precious gift of your blog! Keep shining!
Congrats Bella! I think that is wonderful! You are the true definition of exactly what my blog is about. “No Fear, Just DIVA!” I did the same thing with packing up and moving to LA. I was accepted into fashion school but had no job and no place to live but on the wings of faith and well wishes of my friends I went on, and I could not be more blessed.
So today I send you those same blessings and well wished that have kept me afloat and just want to say we are right behind you! Trust and faith take you so far, and you are a perfect example of that.
“Happy Travels”
May the new digs and 2009 be all you need and want it to be! Blessings to you on your new journey!
Bella–Congrats on your journey to becoming a “midwest gal”. I live in St. Louis, which is only a 5 hr (4 if you are a lead-foot) drive from the Chi. I would love to go to an Afrobella ladies night in the future. You have truly inspired me to change because I want 2009 to be my “year of action” also. I figure that I’m still fairly young, I don’t have a mate or kids right now, so I shouldn’t be holding myself back or strapping myself down. Wait until the snow melts to move, but other than that, I wish you, Steve, and your furry baby a wonderful trip to your new beginning.
Wow!Best wishes to you & your husband in Chicagoland! You have that energy about you that will help you to succeed wherever you go! And with the support of family, friends, and a 100+ afrobellas ‘n fellas behind you…I say go where there is no path and leave a trail!
Bella, again it cannot be understated how much of an inspiration you are just by trying to affect change in your life.
I can’t wait to see your hair posts from Chicago! I found NYC weather to be very different on my hair than my Houston weather, so I’m sure Miami and Chicago will be comparable.
I am staying tuned for updates!
Afrobella, I love visiting your site. I’m so happy to hear that you are claiming this year to be your year. We all should really. I know it’s mine in 2009!!
Good Luck with everything and God Bless!
p.s. How do we email you?!
Good for you girl!!!I know you will be successful!
After checking back and reading the new posts – I had to wish you well TWICE. We all just luv you!
Hey Afrobella! That’s fantastic you’re moving to the Chi. Wish you lots of luck.
You are in charge of your own destiny. With trust in God, confidence in your abilities and a bit of luck, there is nothing that you cannot accomplish.
We are totally in your corner and feel assured that big doors will open for you in the very near future.
You will thrive beyond belief. Just keep the faith and be strong. You have already done the most dificult part.
Love always,
D&M
YAY BELLA!! Chicago will accept you with open arms. Just bring (or buy) a northface coat and all shall be well. Oh, and some extra moisturizer for ur hair and face for our harsh winter.
I am 52 years old and do not have my driver’s license, but just the mention that you learned to drive and brought your own car inspired me to make this the year I learn to drive. I’ve been blessed, but have been hampered from doing some of things I really wanted to do, so I need to step out on faith this year and go for it and get rid of the fear. Thank you for being so open, honest and real, all the best to you in your new endeavor!
@RegalRenee I am 30 yearsold and I can’t drive either.My husband gets this little look on his face when I need to go extra places,and I can’t stand it.I think this will be my year also so that I can come ,and go as I please.
Oh Bella I am all in tears for you!
I am so very happy for you and the decision you have made. I KNOW you will be happy!
When you wrote above that “Right now, Nas’ I Can feels like my theme song. I know I can be what I wanna be. If I work hard at it, I’ll be where I wanna be.”
Tears… TEARS!
When my hands were blistered back in 2004 from using a propylene glycol filled hair lotion I still drove to my IT job. I played Nas “I Can” in my car until the day I left my IT job and started to mix my goodies – I look back now and smile with tears in my eyes!
Afrobella you have been blessed with a talented gift that has been awarded and rewarded!
Afrobella it’s not about LUCK it’s about YOU and what YOU have to offer!
Yes, dear heart, YES YOU CAN BE WHAT YOU WANT TO BE!
Please keep us posted on your new beginnings!
Congrats Bella! WOW your moving away from MIA?
J/K i’m really happy for you girl, you are soo inspiring i wish i had the guts you do.one day i’ll up and make big plans of my own but i’m not ready to be empowered yet. i wish you all the blessings, and i hope you get there safely.
Change is good! My friend recently moved to Chicago a year ago and absolutely love it. She calls it the City of Luck, so I wish you all the luck and prosperity in 2009 and beyond. Go get em’
Wow! This is great news because it’s one of your own choosing and you’re going to have support. All of of those things makes the transition a little bit easier. I could totally see you working for Oprah with your bright smile lighting up the hallways. I’m sure your next move will be writing for Afrobella fulltime and announcing a media partnership with an ad agency or similar. Yeah for you! This is very inspiring for your readers and I hope you realize what a boost you’ve given me just reading this. Thanks!!
Welcome to Chi-city Bella!!! Oh i’m so happy, luv u girl and can’t wait for the chance to see your luvly ‘fro’bella floating around town. Bring a gud coat and sum uggs, u’ll have to get used to our subarctic weather. but now u’ll be able to tell us windy city bellas what products we can use to keep the moisture in during such blustery times. so excited! can’t wait for your first post in ur new home. Welcome welcome!
Oh yes, just went back and read some other comments. DEFINITELY MUST have an afrobella event of some kind. We are going to love having you here!!
Chi-town is my favorite city. I wish you and your husband much success as you embark on this next phase. I’m sure you will make it happen…
Bella, Congrats….
I live in Milwaukee and Chicago is a hop,skip and a jump away from us…I luv Chicago & I’m sure you will…..Just try to learn how to drive in the snow as soon as possible cuz they drive crazier than I do down there LOL….
You’re truly an inspiration….Be Thankful for the many ppl behind you cheering for you to succeed…I havent come across this much positivity on a blog in a very long time….It’s a breath of fresh air….
You go gyal live to the fullest
how brave of you! best of luck!
peace and blessings!
Bella, Congratulations! i know this change will be uplifting for your body, mind and spirit. you are now able to write and blog with less stress and more ease. u will be a great asset to chicago! just from reading all the many comments, i know that every one of your readers is behind you 100%, and continues to be inspired by your words and actions. much luv and luck to you and hubby in your new adventures. Luv u!
Dear Bella, Good luck with the move. I was shocked and kept in suspense when I started reading the post. First you were leaving your job. My eyes widened. Then you leaving Miami! I gasped out loud. But best wishes to you, your husband and Max. Miami isn’t big enough to hold the talent, and spirit you possess!. So I think Chicago is a good choice. Although, I was hoping you would move to New York. But I digress. I applaud your courage for leaping out there and taking a chance. You won’t regret it!
A lesson here: if you want to change surround yourself with supportive people. And in most cases, people do want the best for you.
That’s great! Congrats. Only you can make the change you want to see in your life.
Bella, I admire what the old folks called “gumption”. And you’ve got it. I’m sure your talent and drive will get you far, and Chicago will be all the better for it. Also, how awesome is it that your boo is down for the move? That’s a lot of love. I’ve brought up the notion to my man and it’s a scary prospect: first to do the proverbial relocation “jump” (to hopefully higher, self-fulfilling heights), and secondly to get your partner in life to “jump”, too.
Ways, I applaud your boldness, and wish you the very best. You’re inspiring me to claim “2009 is Mine”, too.
I wish you the best of luck. Keep on keepin’on. I know you’ll be successful in whatever you do.
I lived in Chicago for 17 years and I admit I have a love/hate relationship with the place. But I do get back there a few times a year and coming from my little Iowa town, Chicago always recharges my batteries in a good way.
You simply MUST blog about your move. Do you know where you’re going to live? What’s hubby going to do for work? Do you know where you’re going to get your down coat and down comforter once you get here? lol Like others have warned, the Chicago winter is NO JOKE…but summer more than makes up for it. There also isn’t the same kind of Caribbean variety that you’re probably used to in Miami but that’s okay…I’m sure you’ll find some fellow Trinis to hook up with.
2009 is YOUR YEAR! You can do it! Congratulations, good luck, and who knows…I might catch you on the street sometime this summer!
YOU GO GIRL!!!Keep on walking in God’s faith and wisdom. I’m praying that you will have peace at mind for God’s will to be done in your life. Alway’s much love and respect
Hey Now! Big tings agwan! Congrats!congrats!congrats! Much success…
Good luck to you.
I’m sure you will be very successful there. I hear it’s a great and beautiful city to live in, aside from the cold.
CONGRATS!! I was on staff for an NYC publication until I quit a few weeks ago. I’m working on my novel and freelancing full-time. Good times! Scary, but good.
I totally understand your position. Best wishes to you and your hubby in your new adventures!
Neat-o! Congrats
I pray all the best for you and the family. And you MUST blog about your adventures in finding a new stylist…
Congratulations! As a native Chicagoan, I welcome you to THE GREATEST CITY. Lol! Its got so much to offer and I wish you success and happiness in all of your endeavors!
That’s what I call taking charge of your life!! Congratulations to you. I was turned onto your site by my daughter (who seems to know all the great sites)and I am truly glad I kept coming back daily to see what you say about products for all Bellas. Congratulations to you and your husband for taking that leap of faith. Peace and Blessings to you!
Congrats Bella! I know I’m late to the comment train, but I wish you all the best. I wish I was as brave as you…I still don’t know what to do. I’m sure you’ll have much success and as everyone has said just bundle up in a great coat and everything and you will be okay. I live in Toronto, Ontario Canada so I know winter, but the rest of Canada gets it a lot worse. Take care. I’ll say hello on facebook as well.
Hello, all bella’s i really do love this site. Everytime i come here i am inspired and lifted so much. Congratulations to stepping out on faith and go for your dreams. Bella’s please pray for me i stepped out on faith three years now and i cant say god has not kept me but i am really having a hard time and things are stagnated. I thank you all and have a bella ball this year!
Miss Bella, I am so proud of you. I believe that this move will open so many new opportunities for you and your husband. This is an awesome move, you have family and friends in Chi-Town so thats constant love and support. You will be just fine, take advantage of 2009, its a time for new and positive beginnings. Go for it
) I’m newly engaged so this is definitely new to me, I haven’t even said anything on facebook yet lol. Have a good evening everyone! 
)
~Olivia
GOOD FOR YOU!!!
*holding up a champagne glass full of bubbly* I wish you and your husband the best!!
Congratulations Bella!!! I grew up in Chicago!!! I have lived in California for the last ten years. Although I don’t miss the weather in Chicago, there are certain things within the black community there that I really miss….like Steppers Sets!!!
Best of luck. You will LOVE Chicago!!!
Wow oh Wow!!! I can’t believe you are leaving the Sunshine State for the Windy City. I was raised in Detroit so I cosign about the winters, but since you haven’t experienced them yet, I don’t want to discourage you. Yes, they are frigid. However, there is nothing like a snow day when you can’t go anywhere and there is plenty of hot chocolate and netflix. Mmmm, I miss those days.
I love all the things you mentioned about Chicago, but I will also recommend doing the Love Jones tour. One year my friends and I decided to go to all the iconic places in the movie, the fountain, reggae club, poetry cafe, Union station etc. Was a way to see different things and I think we thought we would find our own personal Larenz Tate, lol.
I vote for an Afrobella meet and greet in the summer, maybe sometime in July around the Taste of Chicago weekend. Sigh, I’m already longing for a bite of that cheesecake on a stick. I’m happy for you and hubby. I know you will love Chicago, but more importantly, I know Chicago will love you.
THANK YOU!
I read your post earlier this week and was inspired…..(I’ve had a Chicago move on my mind for the past yr and a 1/2 but can’t really make that considering I’m a single 23 yr old with not much saved and renting a room in a family member’s basement) I work at a job that goes right along with my major but not my passion….. after reading your post (CONGRATS!! POSITIVE VIBES YOUR WAY!) I applied for my dream job….less than 24 hours later I had a callback and an interview… I’m on my way to my 2nd interview today and the interviewer has already told me I am highly recommended and she just happens to know my former mentor/internship supervisor very well and contacted her. Needless to say she gushed about me
So Bella….. THANK YOU!
Nothing is written in stone just yet but with out your post I may not have made that move when I did and we all know timing is everything!
My resolution was “to come into my own” and I’m on my way!
THANKS BELLA!
GOOD LUCK AND WELL WISHES!
Bella,
Congratulations! Chicago is a wonderful city. I know you will shine there just like you’ve done so in Miami.
Congrats on the new beginnings! The time is ripe and you inspire me! Best of luck in Chi-city…it’s definitely a good place to be and it is lucky to have you. Peace and blessings!
So sad that you’re leaving Miami. but I am absolutely inspired by your bravery! i wish you all the best.