Spring has finally sprung in Chicago. As I write this, I’m currently sitting outside of my favorite South side coffee shop, Afro Joe’s, sipping an iced lavender latte with Almond milk. My father, cousins and sister met me here at 9:30 am for breakfast. We’ve been doing it every week. What started as a one time occasion, has become a thing. I honestly love it. While chomping down on BLT’s, chicken salads (yes, I had a salad for breakfast) and avocado toast, we discuss the latest pop culture and politics. They left awhile ago, but I decided to stay a little longer, in order to get some work done and catch up with ya’ll.

A few moments ago, I witnessed a son assist his middle aged mother to the car. Moments later, a woman happily squealed, while running out of the coffee shop to meet her approaching friend. I take note of these moments and characters. These are the normal moments that tell a beautiful story. They may show up in my writing one day. They may not. But, I take note of these beautiful human interactions.

“Nikki, where have you been?”

My writing is changing and I like it. I guess that’s why I haven’t been as consistent with this newsletter. I’ve been adjusting to this change of thinking/writing, while also figuring out how to pitch my play and maintain an online presence. I notice EVERYTHING. I see stories EVERYWHERE. This morning I shared a story on Instagram about witnessing my uncle slowly transition into an ancestor. You can read it here. This is the style and direction I’m leaning into. It’s different. It’s scary. It’s time.

we made an irresponsible decision

We bought tickets to see Denzel Washington on Broadway in Othello next month. I told my husband that it was okay if we weren't able to see him. It really was. I’d released it and made peace in my heart. However, my husband being the good man that he is, insisted that we go, because “Life is about making memories”. You’re absolutely right, Steve. Our friends are meeting us there and I’ve already informed them that I will cry as soon as we approach the theatre. Why? Because, it’s Denzel Washington and I’m dramatic. That’s why.

what’s next?

There’s an upcoming reading for my play, “The Last Senior Home in Bronzeville”, at the end of this month. This isn’t a public reading. We’ve been strategic about inviting theatre makers who have the resources and power to bring this production to a local stage. That’s the ultimate goal, cousins. In the meantime, I’m taking all of the steps necessary to bring these characters, and this world to life. Please whisper a prayer or two for me and this process.

what can we expect, moving forward?

I’m working on more long form stories and more raw, stripped down, authentic storytelling. I’m going back to posting once a week. I also want to try my hand at travel writing. I have an upcoming trip to the Igbo Landing on St. Simons Island, Georgia. Be sure to follow me on Instagram and TikTok for live updates.

Your Favorite Cousin,

Nikki