All Posts By Charlene Gonzalez

On Sunday, January 19th, New York experienced its first snowstorm of the year. That night, I found myself in a terrifying situation that served as a profound reminder of God’s protection in my life.

As I carefully drove on the snowy roads, turning cautiously around a curve, my car suddenly lost control. In an instant, it swerved toward a barricade that dropped off into a cliff. I felt a surge of panic as I desperately tried everything I could to regain control, but nothing worked. As I braced myself for the worst, I closed my eyes, and in that heart-stopping moment, the car came to an abrupt halt right near the edge. My heart knew, without a doubt, that God had intervened and stopped the car. 

It’s incredible how quickly thoughts can flood your mind in moments like these. In the split second where I felt my life flash before my eyes, I realized something profound: when I let go of trying to control the situation, God took over. Lately, I’ve been carrying a lot on my shoulders, and there are times when doubt creeps in, clouding my ability to fully trust that He is in control.

This wasn’t the first time I’ve found myself in life-threatening situations. From the brink of being kidnapped to car accidents and heart-wrenching heartbreaks, I’ve experienced God’s protection time and time again. In every moment of fear and uncertainty, He has always provided a way out and filled my heart with peace.

Even in the face of death, God was reminding me that He is ultimately in control. He was urging me to let go of everything that weighs me down and to trust Him completely. His plans for my life are greater than I can comprehend, and His timing is perfect. I was reminded that I was created for a purpose, for such a time as this.

So, I want to take this moment to encourage you: no matter what you’re facing, trust God. He is with you, guiding you through every storm and reminding you that you are never alone.

Be Lovely, Be You

Charlene Gonzalez

This Christmas season feels like a true miracle. As I spent the holidays surrounded by my mom and sister, I can’t help but reflect on how far we’ve come. Earlier this year, we faced unimaginable challenges—there were moments when we feared we might not all be together again. My mom was in a coma, given little chance to live, and the uncertainty was overwhelming. 2024 brought so many challenges that were very difficult. 

Yet here we are, and our time together is nothing short of a testament to the power of love and hope. Every laugh, every hug, and every shared moment is a reminder of the prayers that have been answered, and I am filled with an indescribable gratitude.

Our Christmas party was a joyful celebration of life. We indulged in great food, sipped on coquito, enjoyed a lively Puerto Rican parranda, and even had a few laughs playing a hilarious twerking game (which was a challenge in high heels, let me tell you!). I even dressed up as The Grinch to surprise my mom! 

As we gathered to celebrate Christmas, I realize that it’s not just the festivities that make this season special; it’s the love that binds us, always remembering that Jesus is the true reason for this season. I am incredibly grateful for this Christmas, for my family, and for the miracle of being together. Here’s to cherishing every moment and holding onto hope—now and always.

Be Lovely, Be You

Charlene Gonzalez 

As I stand on the threshold of 39, I won’t lie — the excitement wasn’t exactly bubbling over. In fact, I can vividly recall feeling just as apprehensive when I turned 29. There’s something about these transitional years, these “bridge years,” that can feel daunting. But I’ve learned that once you close that chapter and step into the next decade, things often start to click into place. That was certainly my experience when I turned 30.

In preparing to write this post, I found myself diving into the reflections of other women who had reached this milestone. I’ll be honest — it stirred up some feelings. Many of them are married, with families, and I couldn’t help but feel a bit of sadness that my journey looks different. But then, like a gentle nudge of grace I got a reality check and a powerful realization: my life is uniquely mine, crafted with purpose, and my path is not meant to mirror anyone else’s. Each twist and turn is a part of a divine design, and I’m learning to trust that.

Oh, what a journey it has been! I’ve lived so many lives within this one, navigating through major changes and transitions that have shaped who I am today. My 30s have been a canvas of exploration, allowing me to discover what truly resonates with my soul — what brings me joy, what drains me, and the spaces where I feel most safe, comfortable, and empowered. I’ve come to appreciate the preciousness of my time, energy, and attention, realizing how vital it is to invest in what uplifts me.

I’m incredibly grateful for the circle of support I’ve cultivated around me. I’ve surrounded myself with people who love, respect, celebrate, and inspire me. When I look into the mirror, I see someone I genuinely love. The self-critical voices that once clouded my mind in my 20s and early 30s have transformed into a chorus of encouragement. In a world that often feels unpredictable, I’ve found it easier to tap into a deep sense of inner peace.

As I step into this final year of my 30s, I feel a profound sense of gratitude and calm wash over me. Turning 39 feels like a significant turning point, filled with potential and promise. I have plans, dreams, and aspirations for this next chapter, and no matter what challenges lie ahead or unexpected twists life presents, I know that I will always make it through. 

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned in the past year is the value of cherishing each moment. Life is delicate and unpredictable; it can change in an instant. I’m thankful for the growth I’ve experienced, for the resilience I’ve built amidst life’s challenges. Each day is an opportunity to become a better version of myself, and I’m excited for what lies ahead.

Here comes a new year filled with new achievements, new adventures, and new possibilities. Happy birthday to me! It’s a privilege to celebrate another year of life, embracing good health, peace, and the chance to accomplish great things. 

I’m overwhelmed with gratitude for my blessings and hopeful for the future. Here’s to a wonderful birthday and the journey ahead as I close this chapter and live this last year in my 30s. Trusting in God’s plan, I am ready for whatever comes next even a major plot twist. 

Be Lovely, Be You

Charlene Gonzalez 

As Thanksgiving approaches, conversations are filled with expressions of gratitude, but this powerful practice shouldn’t be confined to just one day of the year. Gratitude is a mindset, an attitude we can nurture and cultivate daily, even when life presents its challenges. In fact, embracing gratitude can transform our perspective and enrich our lives in profound ways.

Feeling grateful doesn’t always come easily. It can be particularly difficult during times of struggle. When we’re faced with daily challenges, it’s all too easy to focus on what’s lacking rather than what we have. However, cultivating an attitude of gratitude is not just a passive feeling; it’s an intentional choice we can make every day.

In our pursuit of more—more success, more happiness, more abundance—we often overlook the blessings that already surround us. I can relate to this feeling deeply. There are moments when I find myself reflecting on where I am in life and where I want to be. I may not have accomplished every goal I’ve set for myself, and the path hasn’t always been smooth. Yet, despite the struggles and adversities I’ve faced, my heart remains full of gratitude. I’ve experienced God’s grace in ways that have left me in awe, reminding me that there is so much to be thankful for.

It’s essential to embrace gratitude during both the highs and the lows. I’ve learned to appreciate the challenges I’ve encountered, for they have shaped me into a stronger and more resilient person. Each obstacle has taught me valuable lessons and provided opportunities for growth that I might have otherwise missed. 

So how can we cultivate this attitude of gratitude in our lives? Here are a few simple practices to consider:

1. Daily Reflection: Take a few moments each day to reflect on what you’re grateful for. It could be as simple as a warm cup of coffee, a conversation with a friend, or a beautiful sunset. Writing these down can help solidify the habit.

2. Gratitude Jar: Start a gratitude jar where you can drop in notes about things you appreciate. Over time, you’ll have a tangible collection of blessings to look back on, especially during tough times.

3. Mindful Moments: Throughout your day, pause and take a deep breath. Acknowledge the good things in your life, no matter how small. This practice can shift your focus from what’s missing to what’s already present.

4. Express Your Thanks: Don’t hesitate to reach out to those who have made a difference in your life. A simple thank-you note or a heartfelt message can strengthen your connections and spread positivity.

5. Reframe Challenges: When faced with difficulties, try to view them as opportunities for growth. Ask yourself what you can learn from the experience, and find the silver lining.

Embracing gratitude gives us a new perspective on life. It reminds us that even the simplest things we have can be enough when viewed through the lens of appreciation. As we gather around tables this Thanksgiving, let’s not only celebrate our blessings but also commit to carrying that spirit of gratitude into every day of the year.

Remember, gratitude is a practice, a choice, and a journey. Let’s choose to cultivate it, allowing it to enrich our lives and the lives of those around us. This season and beyond, let’s keep our hearts open and full of gratitude.

Be you, Be Lovely

Charlene Gonzalez 

It’s officially fall, and there’s something magical about this season that makes my heart skip a beat. One of the highlights of being back in New York is undoubtedly the autumn atmosphere—the crisp air and the unmistakable aroma of pumpkin spice. As the leaves change, so does my wardrobe, and I can’t help but fall in love with fall fashion all over again!

As I’ve grown older, I’ve noticed not only changes in my lifestyle but also in my personal style. While I’ve always had a passion for classy fashion, my color palette has shifted dramatically over the years. In the past, my wardrobe was a vibrant canvas filled with bright hues and playful patterns. Nowadays, it’s taken on a more subdued tone, leaning heavily towards neutrals: about 50% black, 20% beige and brown, 15% white, 9% grey, and just a splash of color—1%, to be exact! There’s a certain elegance in simplicity, and I find comfort in these timeless shades as I curate my fall looks.

This season, I’m particularly excited about incorporating some key pieces into my wardrobe. One item that stands out as an essential fall staple is the trench coat. A trench is not just a piece of clothing; it’s a classic accessory that never goes out of style. Its versatility makes it the perfect addition to any wardrobe, effortlessly elevating even the simplest of outfits.

I recently added a beautiful beige trench coat to my collection, and I can’t get enough of it! For a recent church service, I styled it with a navy blue dress and brown boots, creating a look that felt both polished and chic. The trench added an air of sophistication while keeping me warm—a win-win in my book!

To add a touch of personality, I’ve been obsessed with bag charms lately. My suede tote is now adorned with my favorite Labubu charm and a cute cherry charm, bringing a playful element to my fall ensemble. It’s amazing how little accessories can reflect your personality and bring joy to your outfit!

So here’s to fall, to pumpkin spice lattes, and to embracing a style that evolves with us. I’m ready to step into this season with confidence, showcasing my love for classy fashion in all its neutral glory. What are your go-to fall fashion staples? Let’s celebrate this beautiful season together!

Be You, Be Lovely 

Charlene Gonzalez