Musings of Jessica Marie

Music has always been a constant in my life. From replaying my favorite tracks to creating playlists for every mood, my love for R&B, hip-hop, rap, and soul has only grown with time. These genres don’t just entertain me, they tell stories, preserve culture, and shape generations. Join me as we shine a Historical Spotlight on Jill Scott, one of my all-time favorite artists and a powerhouse whose artistry and authenticity cemented her legacy in Black culture.

Ice cream hasn’t always been just a sweet treat — it carries history, culture, and meaning. From drumsticks to pints and everything in between, we all have a favorite… but did you know there was a time when Black Americans weren’t allowed to enjoy it? In this Historical Spotlight, we dive into the story of butter pecan ice cream and explore why it became a beloved delicacy in Black communities across the country.

January gets a bad rap for being “cliché,” but let’s be real, it’s also the easiest time to reset, refocus, and rebuild habits that actually stick. Between post-holiday clarity and all the motivation floating around, it’s the perfect moment to get intentional. I skipped goals last year, but 2026? I’m ready to see what I can really make shake.

Unity is the backbone of any community’s political, economic, and social progress, but history shows how quickly movements can fall apart when everyone isn’t aligned. Sometimes division comes from within, and other times it’s engineered to sabotage progress. Join me as we shine a Historical Spotlight on Kwanzaa and explore why this celebration is more complex, and more controversial, for Black Americans than many realize.

The University of Tennessee’s beloved live mascot, Smokey XI, recently retired, but not because of age or injury. His gentle, reserved personality just didn’t match the high-energy demands of SEC football life. While the story may seem lighthearted at first, it’s also a powerful reminder that you can’t force yourself into spaces you weren’t designed for. 🐾 

Black Americans have long fought for economic, social, and political footing in a country built on both their labor and their resilience. From slavery to segregation, even the most successful Black-owned businesses were often targeted simply for thriving. One powerful example is Bruce’s Beach, a prosperous Black beach resort in California that was wrongfully seized through eminent domain. ✨ Join me as we shine a Historical Spotlight on this important story and why it still matters today.

Winter is officially in full swing, and with those icy temperatures come extra responsibilities to keep your home safe and protected. ❄️🏠 From the risk of frozen pipes to an increase in house fires, a little preparation can go a long way. Whether you love bundling up in cozy hoodies or you’re counting down the days until spring, these winter home-safety tips are vital for every household.

Greatness isn’t just earned on game day—it’s built through discipline, grit, and countless hours of preparation. With the College Football Playoffs right around the corner, it’s the perfect time to look back at the legends who paved the way. 🏈✨In this Historical Spotlight, we’re honoring Ernie Davis, the first Black American player to win the Heisman Trophy, whose legacy continues to inspire athletes nationwide.

I recently found myself way too close to a major car accident during my afternoon commute — close enough to hear the impact and see debris flying. It was a chilling reminder of how fast life can change and how powerful divine protection truly is. 🙏🏾Check out the full video to hear what happened. 💫

They say dogs are man’s best friend — and it’s true. 🐾 From their loyalty to their unconditional love, dogs hold a special place in our hearts. But not all breeds get the same affection. Join me as we shine a Historical Spotlight on pit bulls — once America’s favorite family dogs — and uncover how their reputation changed over time. 💔🐶