Nothing to it, but to do it. – Dad

🍯🐝Hi Honey Bees! Happy Sassy Sunday!

It’s monsoon season here in beautiful Scottsdale, Arizona. Which has my skin feeling soft and supple and my curls full of frizz.

139 days left in the year. 90 days left for summer.

I finally feel like writing again and after I recap this year, you’ll understand why I needed time to get realigned.

January

Full of new possibilities and shaking off the unsettling past two years, I attended a meetup to create my vision board. I filled it with inspirational women, books, future home inspiration, and travel destinations.

I have it in my kitchen so I see it before I’m off to the races and look at it right before bed. I’ve already accomplished and attracted certain things I so thoughtfully placed on my board.

Also in January, I walked in my first runway show. I am usually backstage during runway events working media, assisting with styling and models. It definitely was a thrill being runway model. I am currently in retirement, but open to this experience again.

February

New York Fashion Week. Yes, you read it right. I flew to New York City during NYFW. I was only there for two nights and three days, but managed to get a taste of the Big Apple. It was also during this time, I finally got excited about fashion and creating content again. I was already looking forward to going back in September. Then March came and put many of my ideas and pursuits on hold.

Sassy Sunday: NYFW Winter Whites

B is for Brooklyn

SassyCurlsTV 🗽 NYFW Vlog Part 1 – Junior’s Cheesecake, Stolen Swag Bag, Breakfast at Bubby’s

SassyCurlsTV 🌉 NYFW Vlog Part 2 – Brooklyn Bridge, Streetwear Fashion, Snow Day

March

I have a dry-erase calendar in my living area. It breaks up the year in four quarters. I write birthdays, holidays, and upcoming events here. My weekly/daily planner I keep more detailed, but this gives me an idea of what to look forward to and reminds to plan for these moments.

After a work week, my Fridays are usually spent at home curled up with some food and Netflix. Sometimes, I’m even in bed by 8:30PM.

Friday, March 11, 2022 – 11:05PM

I woke up to missed phone calls from family, but finally answered a FaceTime to receive the worst news in my life.

Dad died.

What?! I was going to call this weekend. I recall saying.

Flew home for a week of bereavement. I hadn’t been back in my hometown in over a decade. Visually, not much had changed, but my outlook on life did.

As much as I mentally prepared for losing a loved one, nothing prepares you for the real thing.

I returned to work, prioritizing what needed to get completed to finally come home, crawl into bed, and privately release all of my emotions.

That was the first quarter of the year.

April

My birthday month and a birthday I didn’t feel like celebrating. My brothers and I went to the Van Gogh Immersive Experience and we ate at Modern Market.

May

Friday, May 13, 2022

Dad’s funeral.

Which added another layer to my grief. It also brought family and friends back sharing stories about how my Dad inspired them. There were stories, I had never heard before about how powerful of a leader my Dad truly was.

It was here, that I promised myself I’m not mincing my words anymore and I’m definitely not letting anything hold me back from what I what to achieve. Still struggling finding joy after losing someone I loved so much. My Dad sacrificed all he had so his children could succeed. Things that I cared about, just didn’t seem important anymore.

I haven’t done much reading this year, but I did manage to listen to Finding Peace in Sadness by Aubrey Lawrence on Audible. This book helped me find the words for my grief.

I recommend reading or listening when people stop asking about your loved one because they simply no longer know what to say. She writes about how to move forward with your pain.

June

I was invited to be a guest speaker for Thee Creators Meetup. I spoke about how I make social media work for me, old narratives I no longer believe in, and about being in the moment.

Father’s Day I went to watch Top Gun. My Dad retired as a Captain in the Air Force at Holloman Air Force Base. The original Top Gun was our family’s favorite movie. The second one didn’t disappoint. I know my Dad would have enjoyed it.

July

7/11/22 I launched  TiaraDeahn.com. Intertwined with managing my grief and work, I started taking acting classes. I was already signed up in early February and attended my first class at the beginning of April. I’ve had an interest in voice acting ever since I did a reading for the Therapy Tree.

I put on my vision board a picture of a white yeti mic, as a reminder to pursue this new endeavor of voiceover. My new site will focus on hosting, voiceover acting, and creative writing.

Follow the journey on insta.

August

There are 17 days left this month. I am taking two acting classes, restarting a workout program, and attending the Lagos Phoenix Fashion Week show. I’m getting dressed by one of the designers, so I’m excited for that.

I also have a Sunday brunch with some girlfriends, donating items I no longer need, getting my spare room in order, and rediscovering my flow.

🌅Shop this sunset lamp on my Amazon storefront under “Home Decor”

Until Next Time,

🍾Here’s to always being your B.E.S.T!

Tiara Deahn Thornton, MBA

📌Pinterest: https://pin.it/5qivi3y 
🎵TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sassy_curls
👾Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/sassy_curls
🐥Twitter: https://twitter.com/Sassy_Curls
📷Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sassy_curls
👻Snapchat: https://www.snapchat.com/add/sassy_curls
👤Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SassyCurlsBlog
🛍Amazon: https://smile.amazon.com/shop/sassy_curls 

♡ The mission of Sassy Curls, LLC is to help women embrace their individuality, value their self-worth, and discover their dreams.

👩🏽‍💻http://sassycurls.com/free
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👸🏽Write Me 💌
Tiara D. Thornton
PO Box 1060
Scottsdale, AZ 85252

“Don’t let the bad guys keep you down.” -Dad

Captain Robert O. Thornton II

Dear Dad,

There are so many things about you I miss already.

Your infectious laugh, jokes, advice, guidance, & loving support just to name a few.

You’re the Dad that stayed up all night to complete our science fair projects and you never complained.

You were delighted for the task, like a mission.

You and Mom put six kids through college. I’m so grateful for the passion you both placed on education.

You expressed your love through your actions.

You were first class Dad. You ARE a First Class Dad.

The best Dad I could ever ask for.

With your passing, I’m forever changed.

I am so grateful for memories. I will cherish them forever.

Thank you for your patience. Teaching me walk with a purpose.

You taught me no matter where I am, I belong to be there.

To never be intimidated by anyone and to never undermine my value.

I will honor your life by doing the very BEST with mine.

Rest easy Padre.

💛Love you always & forever,

Your baby doll

Toys R’ Us & Tropical Snow Cones – Las Cruces, NM

Alamogordo High School Graduation 2005 – Tempest, Mom, Dad, Tiara

New Mexico State University 2009 Graduation – Las Cruces, NM

Pier 54 – Tempe, AZ

My Dad as a little boy.

Casual wear, but make it high fashion.

🍯🐝Hi Honey Bees!

I had the pleasure to style a high fashion photoshoot with The Tie Dye Company. The photography came out amazing and I wanted to share how the vision was brought to life.

I love Barbie, but when the Bratz dolls were sold in stores, I instantly fell in love with Sasha, aka “Bunny Boo.” The original group of “The girls with a passion for fashion,” also include Cloe, Jade, and Yasmin. When I think of high fashion streetwear, I think of the Bratz.

Bratz Jade, Sasha, Cloe, and Yasmin Source: myer.com.au

Since living in Arizona, I have been immersed with the local fashion community here. I saw, The Tie Dye Company showcase his brand at the Phoenix Fashion Week. His collection made me fall in love with the tie dye pattern again. I really love the explosion of color in each of his pieces.

Grateful for the opportunity to work with the designer, Dalton England, and to showcase his work in another light.

Mood Boards

Here is the breakdown of the team and the final looks.

Designer: Dalton England @tie_dye_company
Photographer: Talisa @saintsinthewildphotography
Creative Directors + Stylists: Franchela Franco @styledbymodestu + Tiara D. Thornton @sassy_curls

MODELS
Kerrington Vaughn @demariawithstyle_18
Stephanie Murillo @machechena_
Franchela Franco @franchelafranco
Tiara D. Thornton @sassy_curls

Project: @mujeresofallshades
Videographer: @concretefocuspro
Location: @afternoonsstudio

Model: Franchela Franco | Shoes: Jessica Simpson purchased at Ross for $50 | Designer: Dalton England – The Tie Dye Company | Photographer: Talisa @saintsinthewildphotography

Model: Stephanie Murillo | Designer: Dalton England – The Tie Dye Company | Photographer: Talisa @saintsinthewildphotography

Model: Kerrington Vaughn | Designer: Dalton England – The Tie Dye Company | Photographer: Talisa @saintsinthewildphotography

Model: Tiara D. Thornton, MBA | Designer: Dalton England – The Tie Dye Company | Photographer: Talisa @saintsinthewildphotography

Model: Tiara D. Thornton, MBA | Designer: Dalton England – The Tie Dye Company | Photographer: Talisa @saintsinthewildphotography

Model: Tiara D. Thornton, MBA | Designer: Dalton England – The Tie Dye Company | Photographer: Talisa @saintsinthewildphotography

Model: Tiara D. Thornton, MBA | Designer: Dalton England – The Tie Dye Company | Photographer: Talisa @saintsinthewildphotography

Model: Tiara D. Thornton, MBA | Designer: Dalton England – The Tie Dye Company | Photographer: Talisa @saintsinthewildphotography

Model: Tiara D. Thornton, MBA | Designer: Dalton England – The Tie Dye Company | Photographer: Talisa @saintsinthewildphotography

Models: Stephanie Murillo, Franchela Franco, Kerrington Vaughn, and Tiara D. Thornton | Designer: Dalton England – The Tie Dye Company | Photographer: Talisa @saintsinthewildphotography

Models: Stephanie Murillo, Franchela Franco, Kerrington Vaughn, and Tiara D. Thornton | Designer: Dalton England – The Tie Dye Company | Photographer: Talisa @saintsinthewildphotography

Until Next Time,

🍾Here’s to always being your B.E.S.T!

Tiara Deahn Thornton, MBA

📌Pinterest: https://pin.it/5qivi3y 
🎵TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sassy_curls
👾Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/sassy_curls
🐥Twitter: https://twitter.com/Sassy_Curls
📷Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sassy_curls
👻Snapchat: https://www.snapchat.com/add/sassy_curls
👤Facebook https://www.facebook.com/SassyCurlsBlog

♡ The mission of Sassy Curls, LLC is to help women embrace their individuality, value their self-worth, and discover their dreams.

👩🏽‍💻http://sassycurls.com/free
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👸🏽Write Me 💌
Tiara D. Thornton
PO Box 1060
Scottsdale, AZ 8525

🍯🐝Hi Honey Bees! Happy Sassy Sunday!

I was in the big apple last weekend for New York Fashion Week #NYFW. Even though I flew out solo, I ran into a few other Phoenix fashionistas during my stay, which was a real treat.

I captured a ton of footage during my three day, two night venture. The vlog will be posted on my YouTube.com/SassyCurlsTV. Turn on those notifications so won’t miss a beat.

This was my first time on the East coast. This cold concrete jungle, does have some charm. I could have people watched for days. From the ladies to the gents, fashion was everywhere!

This desert dweller can’t wait to go back to enjoy all that New York has to offer.

One thing I am very proud of myself is I didn’t buy any new clothes for this trip. I used what I owned and in some cases have never worn. I went for an experience, not things.

Met the most charming study abroad students while waiting in line at one of the shows. More on those handsome gents later. 😉

I stayed at the the cutest hotel, Walker Hotel Tribeca. It was was the perfect location because it was nearby many of the events I attended. As a kick-off to my #NYFW content, here’s a solo photo shoot I created during my stay.

If you’re been listening to my Tea Time with Tiara Deahn on Twitch, you’ll know I’ve been back on my reading game. The books I’ve been listening to have helped me to take action on things I’ve really wanted to do.

If you’re been following me on Twitter, you’ll know I’ve joined the #wordle world and not looking back. My brother Jeff Thornton, introduced me to the game, because he knows how much I love words and puzzles.

This is me sending you my greeting card from New York city. Launch that product. Make time for all the things and people you love.

Take that trip, even if it’s solo one. You’ll learn you’re more savvy than you realized and people are willing to help you along your journey.

Outfit Deets: Two-Piece Sweater Dress: New York and Co. Eva Mendez Collection Hoops: Ellie Vail Lips: Too Faced Liquid Matte “Sweet and Sour”

Until Next Time,

🍾Here’s to always being your B.E.S.T!

Tiara Deahn Thornton, MBA

🎵TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sassy_curls
👾Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/sassy_curls
🐥Twitter: https://twitter.com/Sassy_Curls
📷Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sassy_curls
👻Snapchat: https://www.snapchat.com/add/sassy_curls
👤Facebook https://www.facebook.com/SassyCurlsBlog

♡ The mission of Sassy Curls, LLC is to help women embrace their individuality, value their self-worth, and discover their dreams.

👩🏽‍💻http://sassycurls.com/free
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—————————————-­—————————
👸🏽Write Me 💌
Tiara D. Thornton
PO Box 1060
Scottsdale, AZ 85252

I learned the somber news that Cheslie Kryst, Miss USA 2019, committed suicide this morning. Cheslie, I do not know personally, but have admired dearly. I have followed her career on social media in awe, of her intellect, beauty, and accomplishments.

Cheslie, embodied #blackgirlmagic and I’m very sad, she is no longer here on earth. I was thrilled to see she just started her YouTube. I couldn’t wait to hear her beauty and fashion tips.

Strong black woman, is a narrative that is often associated to describe a woman of color. Though I do find the description as a positive, I can see that it can overshadow the other emotions that all humans possess. As though, a black woman can suppress  and overcome other emotions because we are so resilient and so strong.

We are strong. We are resilient. We too have a soft and tender side. We too have fears, moments of sadness, and depression.

I’m 35 and seeing a role model that looks like me take their own life is truly devastating. Her beautiful photo is on my 2022 vision board. I admired so much of her success.

A reminder to check in on all of your loved ones.

The material things are just that, material. Our relationships with people and our respect for humanity, that’s what matters. Everything else is just small stuff.

I do not know Cheslie’s personal struggles, I just know I will miss her.

If no one has told you today, you are loved. I love you.

Please seek help, if you have thoughts of suicide.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a United States-based suicide prevention network of over 160 crisis centers that provides 24/7 service via a toll-free hotline with the number 1-800-273-8255. It is available to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. The caller is routed to their nearest crisis center to receive immediate counseling and local mental health referrals. The lifeline supports people who call for themselves or someone they care about. 

Love always,

Tiara D. Thornton

🍯🐝Hi Honey Bees! Happy Sassy Sunday!

How are your new year intentions going? I have been more intentional about what I am eating and drinking. I also have been working out consistently.

I am working on streamlining my daily and weekly chores so they don’t become overwhelming. If anyone has tips on laundry please comment below!

Fifteen days left in January 2022 let make them count.

Be Fashionable

Earrings are one of my favorite fashion accessories. Statement earrings are a great way to change up an outfit. I found this cutest online accessory shop.

Kadore by Keish Leopard Hoop and Angel earrings in Pink are both sold out, but the website sells jewelry, handbags, sleep-ware, and sunglasses.

What are some of your favorite fashion accessories?

Embrace Individuality

Kyndra Jade – Michelle Grace Gown

At the Arizona Wedding Show, I visited the designer Kyndra Jade’s pop-up shop and was pleasantly surprised to see that she sells her art. I have a small art collection and was thrilled to add this beauty to my collection. She also sells angel wing ornaments and angel rings.

Stay Classy

Airplane etiquette

Middle seat gets the arm rests. I did not know this. At least there is one perk to having the middle seat. If I am on a flight where I can choose my seat, I prefer the window seat.

I’ll be sure to remember this on my next airplane trip.

Treat Yourself

“One of my goals for the happiness project was to prepare for adversity–to develop the self-discipline and the mental habits to deal with a bad thing when it happened. The time to start exercising, stop nagging, and organize our digital photos was when everything was going smoothly. I didn’t want to wait for a crisis to remake my life.” -Gretchen Rubin The Happiness Project

I started reading The Happiness Project which provides small tips to elevate appreciating the small moments in our everyday lives. So far, it’s been an enlightening read.

Until Next Time,

🍾Here’s to always being your B.E.S.T!

Tiara Deahn Thornton, MBA

🎵TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sassy_curls
👾Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/sassy_curls
🐥Twitter: https://twitter.com/Sassy_Curls
📷Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sassy_curls
👻Snapchat: https://www.snapchat.com/add/sassy_curls
👤Facebook https://www.facebook.com/SassyCurlsBlog

♡ The mission of Sassy Curls, LLC is to help women embrace their individuality, value their self-worth, and discover their dreams.

👩🏽‍💻http://sassycurls.com/free
—————————————­—————————
—————————————-­—————————
👸🏽Write Me 💌
Tiara D. Thornton
PO Box 1060
Scottsdale, AZ 85252