As I take on the role of a 50-year-old, I see my pathway changing for the better. My goal for my 50th year is to do 50 things: visit 50 places, states, or countries I have never visited, or do things I have never done. I wanted to give back for my 50th birthday, so I decided that since I was going to be in Houston for the Super Bowl, I wanted to partner with a local shelter and pamper its residents. I wanted to give back. As the good book says, “to whom much is given, much is required.” 

Thanks to my beauty family, I was able to connect with a shelter that was referred by a local Houston nail pro, Gabrilla Berrios, who was referred to me by Athena Elliott. I told Gabee what I wanted to do for my 50th birthday and she sent me a list. Through her, I was able to connect with the Turning Point Shelter, a shelter for battered women. It was my birthday gift to myself. On Friday I had been hired by Results Entertainment and Synergy Entertainment to set up a Glam Lounge for Super Bowl Gospel Celebration. I called the top nail brands and they were able to assist me. CND, LCN, and Soft Landings sponsored the Glam Lounge by providing products. This event took place at Lake Wood Church.

After the event, I decided to take the leftover polishes with me to the shelter. I must say, the ladies were so appreciative. It is a long-term shelter, which means they can stay for a long time; there is no rush for them to leave. As they say, everyone has a story and you never know why people end up where they are, but I am so grateful that I was able to be a blessing to these ladies as I was blessed by these nail companies.

These women were as happy as can be. Their steps changed after being pampered. A very good friend who used to be a nail pro (now she is a nurse) came out and helped polish nails, although she was in a lot of pain with carpal tunnel syndrome. We bless those ladies and one man, but the feeling they left with me is the best feeling ever! I know you only turn 50 once, but I did it my way, and I did it the right way; therefore, turning 50 was the best birthday I have ever had. Thanks again to Kathy Johnson and Natasha Barr Allen — you ladies rock. Thanks to CND, LCN and Soft Landings for the support!

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