Hey everyone! If you’ve stumbled upon this little corner of the internet, welcome! I’m EssieB, and I’m so excited to finally be embarking on this blogging journey with you all through “LifeWithEssieB.” For those who don’t know me yet, I’m a proud 3^rd generation native of Washington, D.C., a city that’s as much a part of my identity as the air I breathe.

While my roots are firmly planted in the vibrant soil of the District, a significant chapter of my childhood unfolded just across the border in Southern Prince George’s County, right on that familiar DC line. Growing up there was like having the best of both worlds – the close-knit community feel of the county, with the ever-present pulse and energy of the nation’s capital just a stone’s throw away. Those early years shaped my perspective in countless ways, offering a unique lens through which I’ve always viewed the DMV and its wonderful, sometimes quirky, blend of cultures and experiences.

Fast-forward a few years (okay, maybe a few more than a few!), and my life is now wonderfully full, primarily thanks to the three incredible young men I’m raising right here in Southeast DC. Being a mom to boys in the city is an adventure in itself, a constant balancing act of school events, weekend explorations, and navigating the unique rhythm of urban family life. Like many of you, I also navigate the world of co-parenting, a journey that has taught me so much about communication, compromise, and putting my children first. My family is my heart, and you’ll definitely be hearing stories and insights about our life here in the District.

Beyond the joys and occasional chaos of motherhood, I also navigate the dynamic world of DC real estate. Helping folks find their little piece of this amazing city, especially guiding first-time buyers through what can often feel like a daunting process, is a real passion of mine. There’s something truly special about helping someone find their home in the place I’ve always called mine.

So, why “LifeWithEssieB”? Well, for years, I’ve felt a pull to share my experiences and perspectives. As a Black woman who’s lived and worked in DC my entire life, I feel there’s a unique story to tell – one that goes beyond the political headlines and stereotypical portrayals. I want to share the everyday realities, the triumphs, and the challenges of navigating life in this incredible city through my own lens.

This blog is also a space for my personal journey of growth. For those who know me, you know I’m always striving to be a better version of myself. That includes my ongoing weight loss journey, a path filled with ups and downs, motivation and moments of struggle, but ultimately one of progress and self-discovery. More recently, I’ve also come to understand myself better through a late diagnosis of ADHD. This revelation has been a significant turning point, offering clarity and new strategies for navigating daily life, from managing tasks to focusing on my online studies as I pursue my aspirations in law. I’ll be sharing some of my experiences and what I’m learning along the way, hoping it might resonate with others on similar paths.

So, what can you expect from “LifeWithEssieB”? Think of this as your go-to space for a real, honest, and often humorous look at:

• DC Life: From local hidden gems in SE DC to navigating the city with kids, exploring cultural events, and understanding the unique pulse of our nation’s capital from a native’s perspective.
• Motherhood: The joys, the challenges, the messy realities, and the heartwarming moments of raising boys in an urban environment, as well as my experiences with co-parenting.
• Real Estate: Insider tips and advice on buying and selling homes in the DC market, neighborhood spotlights (with a special focus on SE DC), and demystifying the process for first-time buyers.
• Personal Growth: My ongoing journey with weight loss, navigating life with ADHD, self-care strategies that actually work, and reflections on personal development.
• My Perspective as a Black Woman in DC: Sharing my experiences, celebrating the richness of our culture, and offering my thoughts on the world around me.

Ultimately, I hope “LifeWithEssieB” becomes a community – a place where we can connect, share our experiences, learn from each other, and maybe even have a few laughs along the way. I’m excited to embark on this journey and share my life, my city, and my experiences with you all.

What are you most curious to hear about first? Let me know in the comments below! I’m looking forward to connecting with you.

Warmly,