Author: Sessi.Dancing Corner

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.

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be in Mexico during Día de los Muertos, also known as the Day of the Dead? If you’re unfamiliar with this holiday, it’s a deeply rooted tradition in Mexico that takes place on November 1st and 2nd. While it coincides with Halloween, it is a separate celebration that stems from Hispanic, Mexican, and Spanish Roman Catholic traditions. The holiday is meant to honor and welcome back the souls of departed loved ones, and the entire country comes alive with festivities, altars, and vibrant decorations.

In Mexico City, the celebrations are grand, featuring an enormous parade where people dress up, paint their faces as calaveras (sugar skulls), and make offerings (ofrendas) to honor their ancestors. The streets are filled with orange marigolds, creating a breathtaking display of color and tradition.

My Trip to Mexico City

I had always wanted to experience Día de los Muertos in Mexico City, and in 2024, I finally got the chance! My uncle lives there for work, so my brother and I planned a trip, leaving on October 30th. We were both thrilled to not only celebrate Día de los Muertos but also spend Halloween in Mexico City.

When we arrived, our uncle greeted us with a welcome drink, which was such a warm gesture. We then visited his workplace and had lunch together before he returned to work. Later that evening, he took us on a food tour to explore different local dishes. We found a delicious spot with incredible food and drinks, and we spent the night sharing great conversations. That was just the first night!

Exploring Mexico City

The next day, my brother and I visited Palacio de Bellas Artes, where we learned about various artists and admired the stunning architecture of the building. We then walked to an old bank called Cuauhtémoc-Centro, where we saw the staircase featured in the Disney movie Coco. From there, we explored the bank’s museum, which included a fascinating tour of the cellar, where we learned about the money-making process.

Later that evening, we returned to our uncle’s apartment and then went out to dinner at Amanal, a restaurant where they prepare food as part of a live show. It was an incredible experience—one I had never seen before.

A Deeper Dive into the Culture

On Friday, we visited Gustavo A. Madero, an area known for its historic churches. We took a private tour, where our guides provided us with water, took our pictures, and even informed us about the upcoming Día de los Muertos parade, including the best time and place to see it.

That evening, after our uncle got off work, he took us to his favorite hole-in-the-wall spot for dinner. The food and drinks were amazing—we still talk about it to this day! Later that night, we went bar-hopping in Mexico City, and it turned out to be one of my favorite memories from the trip.

The Grand Finale

On Saturday, we woke up early to visit the Zona Arqueológica de Teotihuacán, home to the famous Sun and Moon Pyramids. Seeing these ancient structures in person was surreal. To top off the experience, we dined in a cave, where the restaurant had beautifully decorated altars for Día de los Muertos. Later that night, we went out to celebrate in Roma, enjoying more of Mexico City’s vibrant nightlife.

Final Thoughts

Spending time with my uncle and brother in a different country was an unforgettable experience. Mexico City during Día de los Muertos and Halloween is truly magical—the culture, the food, the celebrations, and the traditions make it a must-visit destination. If you ever get the chance, I highly recommend experiencing Mexico City during this time. It’s a trip filled with history, beauty, and memories that will last a lifetime!

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Walk to End Lupus Now

Every October, the Walk to End Lupus Now Foundation hosts an inspiring event to raise funds and awareness for lupus. The event takes place in two locations: South Street Seaport in New York City and Cranford, New Jersey. It’s a chance to walk alongside friends and family for a meaningful cause, all while enjoying the crisp fall air, vibrant orange and brown leaves on the ground, and a scenic man-made lake surrounded by a sea of participants dressed in purple. The energy is contagious, with smiling faces all around, and big-name sponsors lending their support at both locations.

As a bonus, if you raise a certain amount, you get some fun perks like a free shirt with the Walk to End Lupus logo, among other rewards.

Let’s take a look at how the walk in New Jersey is organized. You’ll receive all the important details in your email, but here’s a breakdown: Check-in starts at 1:00 PM, followed by a pre-show at 1:20 PM, the ceremony at 1:30 PM, and the actual walk at 2:00 PM. Everyone who raises $100 or more will receive a walk-day t-shirt, and if you raise $1,000 or more, you’ll get a medal to commemorate your efforts. It’s not just about walking—whether you contribute before or after the event, your support makes a difference. You’ll also get the chance to honor someone you love who’s been affected by lupus.

One of the most emotional parts of the walk is the remembrance tent, which pays tribute to those who have lost their lives to lupus. That tent always hits me hard, reminding me of the Netflix movie where a woman passes away from lupus while giving birth. The story was heartbreaking, as the sister shared the tragic news with her family in a heavy, emotional moment.

Despite the solemn moments, the event is also uplifting, with a DJ, sponsor tents like Wegmans, a Pix11 booth, t-shirt giveaways, and even a photographer. It’s a day filled with both fun and purpose, creating an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.

Last year and this year, my dad’s side of the family really showed up for me—they’ve been the real MVPs in helping me raise funds and awareness, no questions asked. I’m beyond grateful for their support and wish I could give them the world. I’ll definitely find ways to show my appreciation for all they’ve done.

Last year, I walked with my mom and my dog on a beautiful fall day, soaking in everything the Walk to End Lupus Now had to offer. The funny part was when they thought I was a volunteer—I even helped put up signs for a while before jumping back into my role as a walker!

If there’s a foundation close to your heart, I highly recommend getting involved. Put your all into it—you’ll be surprised by how much of a difference it can make.

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Dear Justin Timberlake,

I am incredibly grateful for your music, which has carried me through some of the toughest times in my life, as well as the good times. I love that I grew up with you and your music, and I admire how you’ve remained true to yourself over the years—it’s made me appreciate you even more.

When you released “Take It from Here,” that song became a lifeline for me. During moments when my world felt like it was crashing down, I would put on my headphones, listen to “Take It from Here,” and feel like I wasn’t alone—that someone was there for me. You can’t imagine how much that song means to me. Even now, more than two decades later, I still listen to that album non-stop. “Take It from Here” and “Let’s Take a Ride” have always been, and still are, my go-to songs whenever I need a pick-me-up.

All of your concerts have become core memories for me, from the Justified/Stripped Tour to the FutureSex/LoveShow, the Legends of the Summer Tour, and the Man of the Woods Tour—and my favorite, The Forget tomorrow world tour. I can’t forget the No Strings Attached Tour and the PopOdyssey Tour either. Every time I see you perform, a happy tear always rolls down my face because it feels so surreal, but it’s real. It’s such a joyous and exciting feeling.

During The Forget tomorrow world tour , iI was feeling a bit anxious, but the moment you came on stage, my anxiety melted away. I felt calm and happy, just vibing out with you and the Tennessee Kids. It was everything I needed.

Thank you for all that you do and for the impact you’ve made on all of us.

Love , Stephanie T

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Up up and away yoga

We’ve all been there—aimlessly scrolling through Instagram during a break at work or some downtime, when something intriguing catches your eye. You stop, you investigate, and suddenly, you’re diving into research, reading up on all the details. Before you know it, you’re sold on an event, and it’s sitting in your cart, ready to be booked.

That’s exactly what happened to me with the “Up, Up, and Away Yoga” event. The venue, the timing, everything just clicked, and I couldn’t resist. Plus, the algorithm showed me a content creator who had done the event and absolutely loved it. She recommended it to everyone, which only made me more excited for my own session at the One World Observatory on March 16, 2024, at 11:30 AM.

Fast forward to the day of the event. I arrived at the One World Observatory much earlier than expected and found myself with time to kill. I decided to explore the area, maybe find a restaurant for after the yoga session. But, in a funny twist, I couldn’t find the place I had in mind. Still, I didn’t want to miss my “Up, Up, and Away Yoga,” so I headed back to the observatory.

When the time came for yoga, I was beyond excited. The view from the top of One World Observatory was breathtaking—I couldn’t imagine how incredible the yoga session would be. As we moved through the poses, the instructor guided us through warrior poses and other classic yoga movements. At the end of the class, she led us in a meditation while singing, her voice full of power and control. What she said at the end of the session stuck with me: something along the lines of “let go and be free.” Those words resonated with me for the entire week.

After yoga, I rushed to get to my lunch reservation at La Pasta, La Pizza at Eataly, but I got lost trying to leave the One World Observatory. Thankfully, some kind security people pointed me in the right direction. I even got to ride the elevator by myself, which was a cool experience. I was starving by the time I reached the restaurant, and the meal did not disappoint. I devoured a Margherita personal pizza with red wine and sparkling water, savoring every bite. I even got a colonnata to go, because after such an amazing day, I was ready to head home.

I highly recommend taking yourself out on a date—whether it’s for an event, lunch, breakfast, or dinner. Whatever your heart desires, treating yourself can be so rewarding. By the end of the day, you’ll feel incredible, and you might already be planning your next adventure. So go out there, treat yourself, and enjoy this beautiful life we have.

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