I pray that you are having an amazing weekend as you celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States of America. I invite all of us to take a moment to recognize the extraordinary journey of our nation that is still striving toward its highest ideals.
Whether you barbecued in the backyard with friends and family, traveled to a community fair to watch fireworks light up the sky, or enjoyed a quiet day at home, this weekend offered each of us a moment to reflect on the gift of living in a country shaped by courage, hope, and possibility.
As a nation, we celebrate this monumental milestone for many reasons:
For where we are now — standing in the present with gratitude.
For where we are going — moving forward with vision and determination.
And for where we have come from — honoring the history that shaped us.
00300_2003_001 Declaration of Independence, engrossed copy (Source: National Archives)
To understand where we stand and where we aspire to go, we must first understand from where we have come. Our history is the compass that guides our future. It reveals the struggles that strengthened us, the triumphs that inspired us, and the lessons that continue to shape our identity.
Yet studying our history is not always simple. It is layered with complex and difficult events for us to face. It is in that very complexity that we discover truth — and truth is what empowers us to grow, to unite, and to build a future worthy of the ideals we celebrate today.
May this 250th anniversary remind us that knowing our past is more important than ever. It is how we honor those who came before us, how we understand ourselves, and how we chart a path toward a more hopeful tomorrow.
The Declaration of Independence video below, from Tim Barton of Wallbuilders, poses the question: How do we feel about the past?
On this Independence Day weekend, I challenge each one of us to take time to read the document that started our country — the Declaration of Independence. I recently listened to a constitutional historian speak about the foundations of our nation and the mindset of the founding fathers as they wrote. He explained that the Declaration is far more detailed than most of us remember, containing insights and grievances rarely emphasized in our history books. He challenged his listeners to read the full text to understand why the thirteen colonies believed it necessary to declare independence from the British monarchy.
The full text transcription of the document can be found HERE.
Let me know in the comments if you have read the Declaration of Independence before now. And if you have just read it for the first time, please share anything in it that opened your eyes or deepened your understanding of our nation’s beginnings.
Do you want to rise to the C-suite in your profession?
Are you already in the C-suite at your organization?
Bubblingwitheleganceandgrace.com recently had the opportunity to preview The Executive Code RISE. LEAD. LAST. by Andrea Nicholas before it made its way to bookstores. For an aspiring leader, a new leader, or someone who has held a top position for a long time, this is a valuable leadership resource to keep on your bookshelf.
“Andrea Nicholas is a trusted advisor to seated and aspiring C-suite executives at key inflection points, moving from current levels of excellence into broader, enterprise-level responsibility. Her work focuses on helping build credibility, both inside and outside leaders’ organizations, by strengthening judgment, influence, and the ability to lead effectively under sustained visibility and consequence.”
(Quote via Press Release.)
The Executive Code RISE. LEAD. LAST. is a blueprint for what to do and what not to do as a C-suite executive. I will take a step further – how to do it. There are some lessons to take note of here. I am not a C-suite executive, but I feel I got some key takeaways from this book that I can apply to my career now.
The people that a leader manages want to feel valued and believe that they contribute to the company’s success. The skills they have may be great, but if they don’t get any feedback on how they are doing, they may feel they’re not contributing.
You need to get enough sleep, enjoy life, and have fun. If a leader wakes up with work and goes to bed with work, where is the room for their health? Nicholas gives a great example of someone who had to find out the hard way that health and sleep matter. It’s great to work hard and accomplish those goals, but everything has to be in order; health matters. I really want you to read this book, so I’m doing my best not to share any spoilers.
– Navigate the invisible transitions that come with C-suite responsibility – Avoid the traps that cause capable executives to stall or be sidelined – Expand your judgment, influence, and executive presence across the enterprise – Handle politics, pressure, and power without losing your edge or integrity – Lead with clarity when scrutiny is constant, and the margin for error is thin
If you’re preparing for the C-suite or determined to endure once you’re there, The Executive Code is your strategic advantage at the top — a concise, practical guide for turning a hard‑won role into sustained authority and impact.
“They understand that success is measured not only by shareholder return, but by sustainable impact on people, planet, and performance alike.” The Executive Code RISE. LEAD. LAST.
I like how she gives examples of rewards and risks. Leaders can have a great influence on employees who report to them, as well as on the entire organization and community.
Legacy is a way for a leader to give back, but they also must have that sense of integrity and purpose.
Maybe this book can prevent an aspiring leader from going down a path that would ultimately not work for them. I like how Nicholasdoesn’tt sugarcoat things; she lets you know the pros and the cons of being in leadership.
If you are a C-suite leader of an organization, on a company, the Executive Code RISE. LEAD. LAST. This book is a great resource to give to your entire team because it is not just a book on leadership; it is a guide and a road map to better learning and choices ahead. The Executive Code RISE. LEAD. LAST can be purchased on AmazonHERE.
I am a READ. REVIEW. REPEAT Team Buzz Builder and the review of this book is 100% my own.
If you’ve ever had a workbag betray you—handles ripping, stains appearing out of nowhere, or the dreaded zipper failure—you know the struggle. I carry my laptop and several folders every day, so I need a tote that’s sturdy, structured, and built to last. After going through several bags that didn’t make the cut, I finally found the one.
Let me introduce you to the Large Benvenuto Tote by Patricia Nash Designs.
My first Benvenuto Tote lasted me several years, and the only reason I bought a new one was that I finally wore out the zipper. I rely on a sturdy tote since I carry a laptop and multiple folders every day, so a flimsy bag won’t work for me. The Benvenuto Tote doesn’t need to be babied at all—this bag can truly handle daily wear and tear.
In the video review below, I walk through how the bag is constructed and share my honest thoughts on its performance.
The Features of the Benventuto Tote (From Patricia Nash’s Website) – 100% full-grain leather
– Interior: 1 zip pocket, 2 slip pockets, faux suede lining, 100% polyester
– Exterior: 1 rear slip pocket with magnetic closure, deep embossed logo, burned edge finish
– Double twist-lock closure
– Signature brushed brass hardware, heavy handcrafted stitching
– Dimensions: 19″ L, 14″ L x 12.5″ H x 6″ W
– Approximately 12” strap drop
Patricia Nash describes it as
“The Benvenuto Tote is the ultimate blend of practicality and signature style. With its bold, spacious design, it’s the perfect tote for every occasion, from busy office days to weekend getaways and evenings on the town. The simple yet sophisticated design features easy over-the-shoulder handles for comfort, stud details that add a touch of edge, and a secure double twist-lock closure to keep your belongings safe. Crafted from full-grain Heritage Leather, the Benvenuto only gets more beautiful with age, making it a timeless piece that you’ll love and rely on for years to come. The Benvenuto in Heritage Leather celebrates our 15th Anniversary with our commemorative medallions.”
And honestly, I agree.
Why It’s Hard to Find Right Now
I noticed the Large Benvenuto Tote isn’t currently listed on Patricia Nash’s website. The Heritage Anniversary version I bought last year retailed for $199 and is now sold out.
So I did some digging. On the Patricia Nash’s website, the Benvenuto Tote – Heritage that I purchased last year is retailing for $199.00 and this is the anniversary bag with charms that is sold out. I found the tote on a permanently reduced sale at Dillard’s and also on sale at Also found the Large distBenvenuto on Belk.
atricia Nash also has a very customer‑friendly return policy. I once had to return a bag because the color started to change, and even though I originally bought my Benvenuto from another retailer, Patricia Nash’s website refunded me the full original price. I had purchased the bag on sale, so getting the full amount back was a pleasant surprise.
Final Thoughts The Benvenuto Tote is built to last for years, and if you’re in the market for a reliable, well‑made tote, keep an eye out for new releases from Patricia Nash. Their craftsmanship and customer‑friendly policies make the experience even better.
How do you feel about your relationship with od? Are youGod’sod’s Word every day to keep you strong in the faith?
It is vitally important to have a personal relationship with God in Chr st. The most important way to achieve that is to get iGod’sod’s W rd. Bubblingwithleganceandgrace.com had the opportunity to preview the New King James Version New Testament Tracing Edit on.I found myself going through the New Testament Tracing Edition, literally tracing the Word in lightly printed text with purple nk. I like to read the Word of God out loud while I trace the Scripture, and it is a bible study in a completely different light.
How is tracing the Word of God different?
Rushing through the Scripture is not an option; you will take your time because you are tracing every Word of the bible.
Left handed person writing in the NKJV New Testament Tracing Edition
Right-handed person writing in the NKJV New Testament Tracing Edition
It feels like writing God’s Word in your mind and heart, so you retain more of what you read. You will enjoy tracing Scripture through the New Testament. Right-handers are welcome; however, for all my left-handed family out there, you can see the ease of writing with the flat back Smyth-sewn binding.
Lightly printed text in a clean single-column typesetting
Substantial 60 gsm paper ideal for writing 10 topical reading plans
NKJV translation: Beautiful.Trustwor hy. Tod”y.
“For years, scientists have connected handwriting with improved learning. Designed for a unique, devotional experience, the NKJV New Testament, Tracing Edition provides an opportunity to read and write through the beautiful gospel and promises of the New Testament from Matthew to Revelation. This special edition has lightly printed text, allowing you t trace the words Scriptures easily. Wide margins and a clean, single-column typesetting complete the intentional design. Chapter headings are printed regularly for easy navigation, or you can engage more deeply using the included tracing themes and reading plans on love, hope, grace, comfort, peace, eternal life, anxiety, spiritual gifts, community, heaven, Holy Spirit, and faith.
New Testament Tracing Edition Flat Smth-sewn binding for laying flat
New King James Version New Testament Giveaway Giveaway: $10 Amazon gift card AND a copy of the NKJV New Testament, Tracing Edition (Gray version). Giveaway winners must be US residents who have not won via another blogger’s giveaway for this campaign.
To enter, please leave a comment, letting us know where your favorite place to study God’s Word is.
Giveaway closes on June 9, 2026, at 11:59 pm (Central Time).
Always a good time to get into the Word of God. Purchase the NKJV New Testament Tracing Edition.
If you haven’t seen the exhibition Superfine: Tailoring Black Style, make sure to visit before it closes, especially if you live nearby in New York.
This groundbreaking exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City details how Dandyism is contained within black fashion. A Dandy is someone who “studies above everything else to dress elegantly and fashionably.” According to The Met, the exhibition is organized into twelve sections that build a specific, but not definitive, vocabulary of Black dandyism inspired by writer Zora Neal Hurston in her 1934 essay “Characteristics of Negro Expression.”
The 2025 Met Gala, as a prelude to the exhibition’s opening, featured Dandyism as its theme for the annual fundraiser. The gala inspired me to create my own dandyism style.
We are showing you some of the exhibition highlights.
This exquisite jockey jacket looks to be screenprinted; however, each strip of fabric is hand-sewn. It can be found in the Champions Section. The level of detail needed to create this flawless jacket is fantastic.
Monica L. Miller served as the guest curator for the exhibition. She is the chair of African Studies at Barnard College, Columbia University. She gives her overview of the exhibit in the video below. She also wrote the groundbreaking book “Slaves to Fashion”.
Beauty Section
In the Beauty section, you will see Prince’s ruffled shirt featured on display.
I laid out above eight pounds of my money for a suit of superfine clothes to dance with at my freedom.
Olaudah Equiano, 1789
The great quote by Olaudah Equiano, which states freedom and liberation, is the inspiration for the exhibition’s title.Equiano’s autobiography is featured in the exhibtion and is shown above.
In the disguise section of the exhibition, the fantastic story of William and Ellen Craft, who wrote a book about their run for freedom, which is highlighted in the exhibition, see below.
Respectability, gallery view
Another favorite was the feature in the Respectability section of Frederick Douglass’s topcoat, hat, sunglasses, and pocketwatch. His attire represented being a free man, and he knew just how important time was to him.
I thought this image was so good because it features men of African ancestry tailoring and crafting bespoke garments.
Tailor boys at work 1899-1900. Platinum print. 7 1/2 × 9 7/16″ (19.1 × 24 cm). Gift of Lincoln Kirstein.
We learned so much in this exhibit that you keep wanting to know more. I bought the book, Slaves to Fashion, from Amazon. To purchase the book by Metropolitan Museum of Art book on the exhibition, you can click this link: Superfine: Tailoring Black Style
Many thanks to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, for providing the team with the images from the exhibition in order to write this post.
Light of the World, a fantastic new animated movie, hits theaters on September 5th. This is a film by the Salvation Poem Project that will keep the entire family glued to the screen. Director John Schafer was the producer of the beloved program Superbook. Director Tom Bancroft was a longtime animator with Disney, having worked on The Lion King, Mulan, and Beauty and the Beast.
This inspirational film serves as a great witnessing tool. This movie touched my husband and me, and I know it will touch you. This beautiful, 2D-animated story of Jesus is told through the eyes of his young friend, the Apostle John. From the beginning of Jesus’ ministry through his crucifixion and resurrection, The Light of the World powerfully illustrates how Jesus of Nazareth changed the world forever and continues to change lives today. You can find out more about the film at HERE!.
Scene from Light Of The World
I have never seen John the Baptist so real in a film. He was so relatable, even with eating the locust and honey. The film is biblically based; however, it also incorporates some theatrical elements. You need to see this film!
Show your support by going to the opening weekend through September 7th. If you have a group of 10 or more people, you can get group tickets for just $7.50 a person.
GIVEAWAY!
In conjunction with the movie’s release, we are offering our readers a chance to win a $10 Amazon gift card. To enter the giveaway, leave a comment telling us who your favorite apostle is and why. One comment will be selected at random. The winner must be a U.S. Citizen, and their email address will be submitted to our marketing team. The last day to enter the giveaway is September 10th, 2025.
Disclosure!
Many thanks to Salvation Poem for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.
Learn More About JT Bubbling with Elegance and Grace is a place for life long learners. The Bubbling With Elegance And Grace team was created 14 years ago. A passion for fashion sparked a lifestyle blog for our Elegant Community to enjoy. We are thankful and in gratitude to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for those who have been with us from the beginning and those who have just started riding with us on this lovely journey.
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