Family & Community Mediation and Business Consulting

01/11/2026

Proud Moment: I have been on a five year journey since 2020 to get my finances in order to get ready for retirement since it is right around the corner. I am proud of myself because I was able to pay off over $200,000 worth of debt within my five year goal plan. I created a budget for myself in 2020 with the purpose of paying down my debt. The bulk of my debt came from loans I took out when I was in law school about 30 years ago. Boy how time flies. I am proud of myself because I negotiated with my loan servicers in 2020 to go on a plan that required me to pay my monthly payments on time for 5 years. Then, the remaining balance of my loans would be forgiven. I made the committment to do so and I did it. I received a letter in December 2025 from my loan servicer that the remaining balance of my loans were forgiven. Also, I made the decision to double my contributions to my retirement account and my emergency fund account this past year. And, to my surprise my balance in both accounts has doubled in value. I am so proud of myself because I lowered my debt ratio which caused my credit scores for all three credit report bureaus to go up 50 points each. I am so glad that I have been listening to posts from John Hope Bryant from Operation Hope when it comes to financial literacy and Wallstreet Trapper when it comes to investing in stocks and mutual friends. Also, I am so glad that I have friends who are smarter than me when it comes financial planning for retirement. Their advise has been extremely helpful as well. It is never to late to get your financial house in order. If I can do it, I know you can do it. Also, surround yourself with individuals who are financially sound, ask questions, and create an action plan to get your financial house order. I am glad I did this 5 years ago and I am continuing to work on my plan to retire with 7 figures in assets by time I am 67. I know I can do it and I will do it. To God be the glory!

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01/01/2026

Happy New Year 2026.

12/25/2024

Merry Christmas from Grandma Fannie and the Shadyside Crew. Enjoy your special day with family and friends.

10/11/2024

Friday Inspiration: Sometimes you have to distance yourself from others to find the peace and solace you need to maintain your happiness 😊 and peace. I have learned to keep my circle small and secure. Enjoy your Friday and have a blessed and beautiful weekend ✨️ ❤️.

08/10/2024

Powerful Biz Tip #3: As, I get ready for a new school year as a fourth grade teacher. I have come to realize that I and other Educators play a pivotal role in the success of our children. No one can make a mark in the world without the love, support, and guidance of their parents, family, teachers, and community. Let's show love and support to teachers, students, and parents as we start a new school year. Parents buy those teachers what they need on those supply lists because teachers need those supplies to do their do job effectively. Remember these supplies are needed by your students to be successful in learning. It takes a community to educate our students.

06/07/2024

I thought I share this little bit of history of Black Churches and Black life in Baltimore, Md. https://baltimorefishbowl.com/stories/192-year-old-tapestry-st-james-episcopal-baltimore/

St. James' Episcopal Church is celebrating its 200th Anniversary Jubilee Year with the temporary return of a tapestry knit by its founder and given as a gift in 1832.

05/09/2024

Thursday Affirmation/Motivation: Well, your girl has completed the first year of her MAT Program at Loyola University. My grade average is a B+ and this time I will not have any student loan debt. Girlfriend made the decision to apply for scholarships and pay out of pocket. I am excited because I have working on getting my Teacher Certification for the past 10 years and I am finally meeting my expectations. For the sister who took 9 times to pass the bar to become a licensed attorney, I know the importance of never giving up on your dreams and goals. Also, I know the importance of knowing that age is just a number and you are never too old to achieve your goals and turn your dreams into a reality. As my mentor Che Brown says, "Your Best Is Yet to Come". Don't give up on your dreams and keep reaching for the stars.

03/14/2024

Thursday Affirmation:

I have not been posting much lately because I have been focused on getting my Masters of Art Teaching degree and my Teacher Certification. It has been a long ten year journey so far. But, I will be fully certified as a teacher in 2026. To God be the glory! Never give up on your goals. Please share because someone may need encouragement to keep moving.

01/24/2024

Wednesday Affirmation: One thing I have learned from Grandma Fannie, who is 96 years old, is that you can do anything your heart desires. Doctors and Physical Therapists have said that due to her age her mobility will be limited. But, Grandma Fannie's mobility has been improving day by day. Remember when others say you can't do it, remind yourself that you can do it.