celebrate out loud

June 2025

There’s a secure woman in my life who’s lived through the ups and downs of her journey — and still makes the conscious choice to support other women. During a birthday brunch to celebrate my Mom, my Godmother, and I, she shared, “If I can do it over again, I would do it like Carla Tabares.” She said this twice — directly to my Mom, and in front of everyone at the table. 

I was approaching my 26th birthday and living through the peak of my quarter-life crisis, so this felt incredibly humbling to hear! lol I remember not knowing what to say to her other than thank you. 

We’re both from The Bronx and attended the same college in Syracuse. We’ve made different choices in our lives and are nearly two decades apart in age. As a young girl, I knew I could trust her, and as an adult, I look up to her. She taught me (and is still teaching me) the value of doing things on my own terms, taking control of my life, and staying connected to myself. 

I remember Mom started crying. I get it, though. I can’t imagine how overwhelming it must’ve felt for her to receive those words from her friend. I’m sure she felt validated for raising me in the best way she knew how. Mom looked at me and said, “I know I wasn’t perfect,” and before she could finish her sentence, I said, “but you’re the reason I feel like I can do anything on my own — like move to Chicago.” 

Women should celebrate other women out loud — behind their backs — and to their faces. <3 

P.S. June is this special woman’s birthday month! Cheers to this badass Gemini!