Author: Sessi.Dancing Corner

Every family has that tradition the one that somehow survives the group chat chaos, the work schedules, and the yearly “What PJs are we wearing?” debate.

For us, it’s matching pajamas, Secret Santa gifts, and a little photoshoot that never goes as planned… but always ends up perfect anyway

For us, it’s matching pajamas, Secret Santa gifts, and a little photoshoot that never goes as planned… but always ends up perfect anyway.

It all started two years ago. I remember thinking long-term because, let’s be honest, my titis and tios aren’t going to host forever. So I decided to create a little pre Christmas hangout a mini gathering with snacks, a theme, and our now-iconic cousin photoshoot.

The first year was a White Winter Wonderland: jeans, white sweaters, very Pinterest-coded.

The next year? Matching PJs and decorated props.

This year’s theme is jeans and black T-shirts that say:

“Nice, Naughty, No I’m Puerto Rican.”

Plus a decorated photo box for our shots our little reminder that no matter how much life changes, we still show up for each other (and for the camera).

Then, naturally, chaos breaks out. My brother and a few cousins start roasting each other, someone is laughing too hard to stand straight, snacks are disappearing, and everyone’s taking either a shot of coquito or cheering with soda. Meanwhile? Photos are somehow getting taken in the middle of all this noise. Peak cousin energy.

I’m still debating whether to post a collage or copy whatever’s going viral on social media (don’t judge me inspiration is inspiration).

What I love most is that this little tradition became our pre-party before the “real” Christmas parties. Everyone goes their separate ways on Christmas Day, but this moment this tiny slice of time together belongs to us.

I’m so grateful my cousins show up, make the effort, and embrace the chaos with me. I adore them all. And I hope this tradition keeps going for years messes, laughter, roasted jokes, coquito, and all.

Brooklyn weekends are usually all laughter, coffee runs, and the kind of chaos that only happens when I’m with my forever friend and the MTA decides to test my patience. But this one? This one came with a plot twist.

I went to visit my forever friend at her new apartment in Brooklyn and if you know me, you know I got lost getting there. When in doubt, call an Uber. Finally made it to her place (which, by the way, was super cute) and we decided to explore Brooklyn the way Brooklyn should be explored.

We tried Citi Biking to the park but of course, had a little hiccup. So, we walked all the way to Prospect Park, chips in hand, chatting about life when suddenly, this random lady walks right up to my face and says,

“Go back to your country.”

My friend and I froze, half-shocked and half laughing in disbelief. Like… ma’am? That was not on my Brooklyn bingo card. It was unnecessary and ugly a reminder of how politics and ignorance can still make people feel unsafe just existing outside. But we refused to let that moment ruin our day.

After we made it to the park, we walked around, took pictures, and soaked up the peace and nature tucked inside all the city noise. When we left, hunger hit and we wandered into Cornbread, where we absolutely devoured fried chicken, fried catfish, and mac & cheese. (10/10, highly recommend.)

But apparently, Brooklyn chaos wasn’t done with us yet. On our walk back, a guy said “hi” to my friend and suddenly another woman decided to start yelling about, “We’ve been here for 30 years!” Like… what?? The vibe was off. Maybe it was tension around gentrification, maybe just bad energy in the air. Either way, I get it people want to protect their neighborhoods. But that doesn’t excuse rudeness toward strangers just minding their business.

Through it all, my friend and I handled everything like the resilient angels we are.

The next day, Sunday was smooth brunch with her roommate and her friend, some football, lots of laughs, and of course pasta and wine to end the weekend before I headed back home to Jersey.

It was chaotic, yes but also real, beautiful, and unforgettable. Brooklyn always gives you a little bit of everything, even when you didn’t ask for it.

Solo Dates

Have you ever just wanted to try a new place or a new activity, but all your friends were busy because life was life-ing? So one day, instead of waiting on anyone, you just went for it and ended up having the best time with yourself. You make memories, take a bunch of pictures, and realize… wow, solo dates are actually kind of magical.

On July 12, 2025, I had one of my favorite solo dates ever. First stop: lunch in Hell’s Kitchen at Mama Mia, a cozy Italian spot. Carbs were necessary, because right after I headed to SassClass for a dance workshop called Chairology with Tony. And let me tell you we danced to Christina Aguilera, with chairs involved, and it was everything I didn’t know I needed. My body, mind, and soul were all in alignment that day.

After class, I wasn’t ready to go home yet. So I wandered through the city, grabbed a protein smoothie from Juice Generation (because yes, balance), and then found myself at Bryant Park. I sat down with my travel journal, wrote about what I was grateful for, and just soaked in that perfect Saturday evening. Eventually, with music in my ears (one headphone in, one out safety first), I let the sunset guide me home. By the time I hit my bed, I was blissfully exhausted.

I love my solo dates in the city. I swear by them. They keep me grounded, recharged, and remind me to enjoy the little things.

So here’s my PSA: take yourself out. Try that restaurant. Sign up for that class. Wander that neighborhood. Solo dates aren’t just fun they boost your confidence, your mental wellbeing, and they push you outside your comfort zone in the best way. They help you discover yourself while still having the time of your life.

Go out there and enjoy your own company. You deserve it.

The Weeknd: After Hours Til Dawn ’25

Picture this: you’re at brunch with your family, chatting about everything and anything while food and drinks are flowing. Everyone’s laughing, vibing, just living in the moment. On the way home, someone starts blasting The Weeknd old hits, new ones, all the feels. Then one of the cousins says, “We should all go see The Weeknd at MetLife.”

And just like that, a plan is born. We picked a date, sent the money, and locked it in.

Fast forward to the day of the concert June 7th. The excitement was real. My cousin, my brother, and I were hyped, blasting his songs in the car and laughing nonstop. When we pulled up, you could see everyone dressed in their best leather fits, all black everything

all headed to the same place. We grabbed our concert tees, some snacks and drinks, and made our way to our seats.

It was a little cold and even rained for a bit. My outfit didn’t help, but thank God for that concert T-shirt it saved me from freezing! The openers were Mike Dean and Playboi Carti, which honestly felt like the perfect choice to set the tone. The crowd was buzzing, waiting for the man to take the stage.

And then… he did.

The Weeknd appeared, the entire stadium screamed. He slowly took off his mask and just stood there, soaking in the love. His eyes were glistening. His smile was real. You could feel how much this meant to him and I love artists who stay true to themselves. It makes everything feel more honest, more special.

His setlist? Fire.

He gave us:

“The Abyss,” “Wake Me Up,” “After Hours,” “Starboy,” “Heartless,” “Faith,” “Take My Breath,” “Sacrifice,” and so much more.

We were all singing, dancing, living. One of my favorite parts? The way the wristbands lit up and changed colors with every song it was like we were part of the show. At one point, he said, “If you don’t know the words, vibe out with me.” Like YES. A self-aware king. That’s what a concert should be music, energy, connection, no pressure.

And the ending? Fireworks.

He closed it all out by saying:

“My name is Abel Tesfaye. I love y’all.”

That’s how he ended The Weeknd era in New Jersey, with an unforgettable night.

I’m so grateful I got to be there, not just for the music, but because it felt like watching someone step into a new chapter. I discovered his music through a podcast or someone recommending it years ago. And now? I introduced my brother to him and watching him see his favorite artist live? That hit me hard in the best way.

It’s a core memory. A night with my brother and cousin that I’ll always carry.

If you’re a fan or even just curious go see Abel live. He’s got it.

This is only the beginning of whatever comes next for him.

And lucky for you…

He’s still touring, ladies and gentlemen.

New York City—the place where dreams are made, just like they say in Empire State of Mind. Back in 2017, I discovered The Dollhouse—or maybe even earlier, since I had attended one of their workshops without realizing it was actually an audition for their next big show. Naturally, I had to go! I met some incredible people, took amazing dance classes with top-tier choreographers, and soaked in every moment.

During that trip, I also spent time with my uncle and his coworkers at Tommy Hilfiger, learning about life and business from their experiences. On the other side of it all, I interned with two dance companies—both small businesses—where I watched dancers pursue their dreams in real-time and gained valuable insight into the entertainment industry. And the best part? I was balancing all of this while still in college!

Looking back, I completely understand the meaning behind Empire State of Mind. I was going through a lot mentally and emotionally, but nothing was going to stop me.

Fast Forward to February 15, 2025

After a long hiatus, The Dollhouse finally returned with their show The Wicked Ways. The moment I saw tickets go on sale, I jumped on them! Of course, I had to invite my forever friends, and they were all in—which meant the world to me, especially given how important dance is in my life. I couldn’t wait to experience the show with them.

Before the show, we spent time in the apartment, getting ready, vibing, and ordering takeout. The show was set to start at 8 PM, but they were running late. I didn’t mind—I knew they were about to put on one hell of a performance.

The Show

When the show finally began, the Madam took the stage and introduced each dance, tying it all together with a Wizard of Oz theme. Every dancer had their own unique technique, leaving us in awe with each performance.

My favorite part? The audience interaction! They even brought people on stage to join in, adding to the fun. Plus, the host of The Wicked Ways brought humor and energy, making the entire experience ten times more entertaining. One thing I’ve always loved about The Dollhouse is that it’s a judgment-free zone—everyone is encouraged to come as they are and just enjoy the moment.

My forever friends loved the show, which made me so happy. I appreciate them so much, and this was yet another memory to add to our collection. I can’t wait to create even more experiences with them in the future.

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t already, I highly recommend following The Dollhouse and catching their next show. Trust me—you don’t want to miss it. It’s an experience that gives you exactly what you want and more, always leaving you eager to see what they’ll do next.

And if you haven’t had a girls’ night in a different city, this is your sign to do it! Experiencing something new with your forever friends isn’t just fun—it strengthens your bond in ways you’ll never forget.

On January 25, 2024, Justin Timberlake announced his tour on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon while also promoting his new single, Selfish. Guys, when I tell you how excited I was for Justin Timberlake—from the moment he dropped his album to the announcement of his tour—I mean beyond ready. I wasted no time securing my ticket for his June show at Madison Square Garden. After six years without new music, there was absolutely no hesitation. I needed that ticket in my hands ASAP.

Justin kicked off his tour on April 29, 2024, in Canada, and soon, social media was buzzing with his setlist. Once I saw it, I made sure to memorize every song from Everything I Thought It Was, along with his classics (which, let’s be real, I already knew by heart). When my turn finally came on June 25, I was counting down the hours at work. The moment the clock hit 1:30 PM, I raced home to change, eat, and, of course, look extra pretty—just in case Justin Timberlake noticed me. (Spoiler: I made eye contact a couple of times and waved excitedly!)

Before the show, I met so many amazing NSYNC and JT day-one fans outside Madison Square Garden, holding up signs that read “You Are Loved Until the End of Time.” It was incredible to connect with fellow fans, both in NYC and through social media.

Then—showtime. Justin Timberlake rose from the stage, opening with No Angels, but Memphis officially brought him in. In my opinion, it was one of the best intros I’ve seen in a long time. As I stood there, waiting, I felt this wave of anxiety for no reason. But the moment Justin hit the stage, his presence alone made it disappear. From the first song, the energy, lights, and choreography were next level. I sang along, danced my heart out, and completely lost my voice—but trust me, it was worth it.

If I had more money, I’d go again in a heartbeat. Justin Timberlake leaves you wanting more, blending his old and new hits seamlessly. From SexyBack to Infinity Sex, and the perfect transition from Drown to Cry Me a River—every moment was chef’s kiss. One of the most magical parts? The B-stage ballads, where he performed Pusher Love Girl and Until the End of Time. That’s when we held up our Project Conditions signs, creating a sea of love while singing along with Justin and The Tennessee Kids.

Overall, this concert was everything, and I will always recommend seeing Justin Timberlake live—at least once (or honestly, as many times as possible). He never disappoints. Every JT concert I’ve attended, he has stepped it up, leaving me amazed once the final note plays. That man puts on one hell of a show.

Proud to be a JT girlie Until the End of Time.

Imagine you’re working out intensely outdoors on a full-body day and end up pulling a muscle. To aid your recovery, you decide to take a few days off and visit sauna suites for hot and cold plunge therapy. Spending 15 minutes each in the sauna and cold plunge can rejuvenate your body and accelerate healing.

On May 26, 2024, I visited the sauna suites for a refreshing reset, aiming to reduce abdominal inflammation. I eliminated coffee from my diet, as it was a significant contributor to my inflammation, and practiced mindful eating. The sauna suites offered a complimentary first session, which was fantastic. Impressed by the results—15 minutes in the sauna followed by 15 minutes in the cold plunge—I continued regular visits.

Hot and cold therapy profoundly relaxed me. This contrast therapy involves alternating between hot and cold treatments to relieve muscle pain, reduce inflammation, and improve blood flow. The benefits are remarkable; you truly feel rejuvenated after each session.

The experience includes sitting in the sauna, listening to your favorite music, then taking a break to immerse yourself in the invigorating cold plunge for as long as comfortable. You conclude the session by returning to the sauna briefly, ending with a vitamin C shower, and enjoying a relaxing rest of the day.

I highly recommend incorporating this experience into your routine at least once a week.