Pages

Friday, November 28, 2008

Basil


Good Morning Beautifuls!

I hope that you had a wonderful holiday, or day off. (I'm back to work today. Uh... yay me.). Hopefully, you took care to eat reasonably/sensibly. I was pretty conscious about not overdoing it & focusing more on enjoying the moment w/family. I'm glad I did. The time was enjoyable. I hope it was for you, too.

I also hope you were able to include some fresh greens, like a salad w/your meals. I did. I actually added a couple of basil leaves in my salad. Only a couple because of it's strong flavor. I understood that basil is an herb. I just didn't know about all of its wonderful qualities until researching it.

It is an herb that is effective in protecting cells from damage from radiation.
Its essential oil has been shown to inhibit the growth of several types of bacteria. Many of which have become resistant to antibiotics. Some dietitians recommend adding basil to salad dressings to help ensure safety when eating salads. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, making it a good food for arthritics to consume. It's a source of vitamins A, C, and K, iron, calcium, manganese, magnesium, and good ole potassium. It also helps to prevent build-up in arteries and fight free radicals.

If you choose to add Basil to your diet be sure to use organic. Also, if you decide to cook it only do so for a few seconds. Cooking can destroy a lot of its wonderful properties.

Peace...

Post Title Basil

Tuesday, November 25, 2008

What I'm Thankful For.....


Good Morning Beautifuls!

As the holiday approaches, I've been reflecting on the things that I am truly thankful for. To be honest, my list could go on forever but for the sake of time I have simplified it. So here goes...

1. my preteen daughter. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to bring life into the earth. Raising her has (and still is) helping me to see the things in myself that need improvement.

2. my family. (the conglomerate of unique characters)

3. my wonderful friends. In particular, Ms. M (and U know who U r) who has shown me what a true friend is. Loves ya, has your back, keeps an open ear, calls U to the carpet when necessary & always supportive. U really know me and you're still my friend. Much luv, my sistah!

4. my job. Although I do not hold it in high regard, I ain't complaining during this economic time of uncertainty/instability.

5. sound mind and good health!

6. the tears I shed whenever I see an injustice or someone hurt, or a sappy scene on tv. They (my tears) remind me of my humanity & that I still can be touched.

7. the tragedies/bad times in my life. In reflection, these events have shaped me into the person I am today. Because of them, I've learned not to take life for granted and that every waking (& sleeping) moment is precious and should be lived as such.

8. to have experienced love in my life.

9. for my kitty. Well, really my daughter's cat. She (Kiara the kitty) has totally changed my view of the domestic feline. She's a sweet (& very spoiled) lap kitty. I heart her!

here's a doozie..
10. I am so thankful for the things that I so desperately wanted to happen and/or go my way but didn't. Thank God!! Cause it never failed, either I wasn't ready for it or it wasn't what I thought it would be or it simply was not for me.

and lastly..
11. for my fellow bloggers. You all have helped me to see how huge this world really is yet touchable. I thank you for your comradery. Your presence blesses me as I hope mine does for you.


Have a Happy Thanksgiving!!
Peace and Blessings to You All!

Post Title What I'm Thankful For.....

Monday, November 24, 2008

I Got My Blender....... Yay Me!


Good Morning Beautifuls!

I hope that you had a wonderful weekend. Mine was busy w/holiday preparations and fundraising at the Dome. And I still have to to do laundry but first, I had to drop a post. The end of last week was so exciting for me! The products that I had ordered came in. One in particular was my Tribest Personal Blender. I was so happy b/c now I can make my smoothies, pop a commuter cup on top of it and then walk out the door. It's really awesome and it has a powerful motor. It does not take up a lot of counter space and is easier to operate than a regular blender. Mine also came w/a grinding blade, so if I want to make a nut butter or simply grind some nuts I can. And of course, I used it as soon as I got home. It has not disappointed me.

I also received my Hemp & Maca e3Live Protein Powder. Hemp is a great source of protein. It contains 50% protein and contains essential fatty acids and Omegas. It helps to build muscle and increases stamina and energy. Maca (considered a Superfood) is a root vegetable. It is an adaptogen seeking low-functioning areas of the body, and balancing them. Then strengthening the entire immune and endocrine system. e3live is a blue-green algae that provides 64 easily absorbed vitamins, minerals & enzymes and has more chlorophyll than any other food including wheatgrass. Whew! Having said that, I've been putting 1 scoop ( it calls for 2 scoops) into my smoothies b/c it is strong and I do have to get used to it but it's great. I definitely needed it this weekend with all that had to be done.

I know this is the holiday season and all but I reverse to end it 10 to 15lbs heavier. So tell me... are you doing to counter the holiday bulge?.....

Post Title I Got My Blender....... Yay Me!

Friday, November 21, 2008

"DO YOU" CHICK...Erykah Badu


Happy Friday Beautifuls!

One of my fave "Do You" Chick's is the one and only Erykah Badu. Aside from diggin' her music & it's vibe, I appreciate her for flaunting her natural hair in the face of a society that's not to keen on anything that ain't "straight" or mainstream acceptable. She helped (dare I say, sparked) the natural hair movement. On top of which she is truly talented musically, vocally and in acting. I'll never forget her performance in "The Cider House Rules". It's a must see! According to the site, www.erykah-badu.com, she is set to play a leading role opposite Mos Def in the indie film, "Bobby Zero". Congrats, Ms. Badu!! Do your thang!!

I just had to leave you with a video of one of my fave songs/performances by her. It's from her VH-1 Soul Stage concert. The song is "The Other Side of the Game".







Have a wonderful weekend!
And as always, "Do you".
Peace...

Post Title "DO YOU" CHICK...Erykah Badu

Thursday, November 20, 2008

What to Do. What to Do.

Good Morning Beautifuls!

I have been really struggling to figure out what to do w/my hair. It seems like I'm not the only one. As I was reading this morning, Spiced Honey seems to be feelin' the same thing. I guess we all are subject to this hair rut as Urbancurlz discussed in a past post. I'm starting to wonder if it is a seasonal thing. Since the colder weather does effect our hair, maybe it also effects how we feel. I'm sure the added attention/care that we have to give it doesn't help.

I'm considering having my hair blow-dryed and flat ironed. It's been about 6 months since I last had this done but I'm always concerned about heat damage. I haven't made the time to find a cute wig. And I don't wanna always wear it in a bun. I guess you say I need to make a decision. Um meh... Just not feelin' it..

What about you? What are you doing w/your hair during this season?..
Give me some ideas...

Post Title What to Do. What to Do.

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Paper Planes?...

Okay.... I may need some serious help. I am lovin' this song "Paper Planes" by M.I.A.. At first, I hated it! I didn't and still do not understand it or it's meaning but nonetheless I like it. I don't know what that says about me. Maybe I have some deeply rooted issues I'm unaware of. I dunno?... It has a different vibe to it. Maybe that's why I like it. Help me to understand this one.

If you have any ideas what it's appeal may be, why you may like or dislike it or why I might be diggin' the song please give me a clue..




I'm having so much fun now that I understand how to attach videos. Please be patient with me. I'm a work in process. :)

Post Title Paper Planes?...

Just Because.....

Had to share! As a native Atlantan, this ish is hella hilarious!

Enjoy and Happy Hump Day!!

Smooches.....


Post Title Just Because.....

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

It's That Time of Year Again.....



I just found out that Miss Jessie's holiday promotion will be in full swing beginning Nov. 21 thru Dec. 31st. As I've stated before, I haven't had much luck w/their products but the pj in me is moving me to give them another try. I also factor in the fact that I am able to use products now that I couldn't use when my hair was a bit shorter. Either way, I'm eager to give them another try and this buy 1, get 1 free promotion is the perfect opportunity! I'm also considering getting my hair shingled for my b'day in February.

**side note** A good friend of mine who as she put it (is outside the natural community- of hair that is) asked me "what is shingling"? I'm glad she did b/c I made a ridiculous assumption that everyone knew. Anyhoo, shingling is basically where you take small sections of detangled hair and apply ,in this case, Miss Jessie's Curling Pudding from the root to the tip. Please note that I have seen people do this without their pudding as seen on biracialhair.org, so I do believe that you can use other products. Either way, after applying the product to the secion of hair you comb it thru from root to end. You begin this product at the nape to the front of the head. Once done, you either allow the hair to air dry or sit under a dryer. The point of their products and styling methods are to coax curls. Although I wouldn't use their products everyday due to content, I think their great for styling every now and then.

I'm also digging their new website setup. Check out the Styling Section it's really helpful. I've always appreciated their site for that!

Post Title It's That Time of Year Again.....

On My Wish List...




Good Morning Beautifuls!

I hope that you all are doing well. I played hookie yesterday. I have been trying to post this for the longest but hopefully today is a success.

I just had to share! The vision for my home decor is slowly coming about. I went onto HGTV's Find Your Style page to get an idea (or better yet name) of what my design style may be. The quiz results said that my style is "Ethnic Eclectic". This gave me a great explanation as to why I'm drawn to a bit of everything! I was actually relieved to know that it is an actual style instead of me simply having no clue.

On to my story... I've been searching for an Asian-style cabinet/armoire for my room. One with a couple of shelves and at least one drawer. My desire is to use it to house my hair products (on one shelf), my essential oils (for the 2nd shelf), and my blow dryer/flat iron and any other hair accessories for the drawer. Well, I was strolling through the Perimeter Place Shopping Plaza and happened upon a very interesting looking store called Kava Decor.

Kava Decor is a home decor boutique that I instantly feel for. It boasts the ethnic eclectic style that I've embraced. The smell of incense greets you as soon as you walk in the store. They play music from all of the world while you shop. Not exactly a place I would expect to find in or near Dunwoody, GA... Maybe Little Five Points or Virginia Highlands but this part of town??!! Nah, no way!!.. But I was pleasantly surprised! Kava is filled with uniquely designed furnishings for every room, lighting fixtures, floor treatments, accessories, art & more. I spoke w/Mor who is part owner of Kava (he's very helpful and informative). He expressed to me that artists help to supply his store. Impressive!

When I strolled to the back of this wonderful boutique I spotted my Asian-style armoire! Love at first sight! Talk about excited! This is what I've been looking for! Unfortunately, it's not in my current budget, but I'm working on that! This may have to be a "splurge of the month" item for me. **side note**..I honestly haven't been to the store in awhile. I'm afraid it may be gone. But I'll definitely keep you posted on that!

Anyhoo... I just had to share and let you all know about this wonderful store. If you like unique items or are just curious, go check Kava out. It's definitely worth the trip. Kava Decor is located at 4350 Olde Perimeter Way in the Perimeter Place Shopping District in the ATL. You can contact them at 770-351-9377 or visit them on the net at www.kavadecor.com.

Post Title On My Wish List...

Friday, November 14, 2008

Maxwell -- Lawd Jesus!!!!!




Happy Friday Beautifuls!

Well, we've made it through another week and as promised I'm posting on the much anticipated Maxwell Concert. *take a moment to exhale*...He's so swexy. And he's definitely still got it!

First of all, I didn't realize that his concert was sold out! After checking his website tour listing, I noticed that most of them are. I'm so happy for him! He was so humble during the show. Making sure he thanked all of us for selling his show out without him having a new album or a hit song. I was thinking, "Is he trippin' or what? You're Maxwell! Nothing's changed! Of course we're selling your show out!"

Anyhoo, the backdrop was simple. He needs nothing elaborate. Simply showing up and singing is enough. And believe me, the ladies let him know just that. It was amazing to witness hundreds of grown women screaming like young school girls (namely myself). And he did not disappoint. He did all of his classics that we love like, "Get to Know Ya", "Fortunate", "Lifetime", "This Woman's Work", and of course "Til The Cops Come Knockin'" ..*shudders*..Ooh Wee, did he do that one! ..I'm still not over that performance. And I ain't even gonna lie, I left that concert "satisfied" if you know what I mean. ..Whew!...

I would go into more detail but I don't want to spoil anything for those who are going to his concert. If you're undecided, let me tell you it is more than worth it! Me and my friends are still floating (2 days later) from his performance. The pic. on the right is our pre-concert photo. (I'm on the far left in all black) My head was so turned out after the concert that I didn't think to take another photo. I couldn't think! Myself and my friends were so euphoric and utterly useless. It was a done dada.

Well Beautifuls! You all have a wonderful weekend. Definitely check out his concert if he's coming to your town. If not, take you a moment to break out some Maxwell music, light a candle, and grab a glass of wine. I promise you, you will get a similar effect.

Peace and Blessings!!


**the above Maxwell photo is courtesy of Atlanta AJC.com/photo:Robb D. Cohen/Robbsphotos.com**

Post Title Maxwell -- Lawd Jesus!!!!!

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Be Back Tomorrow!

Good Morning Beautifuls!

I can't even think to talk about anything else but the Maxwell Concert I attended last night. However, I want to upload the pics when I do so. And of course, I hadn't done that yet. On top of which, I am still a bit euphoric from the evening so I don't think I'd make much sense.

Anyhoo, be back tomorrow to let you know (and hopefully show you) how everything went.

Much Love

Post Title Be Back Tomorrow!

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

My "Bucket" List


Good Morning!

Lately, I've been thinking a lot about the things that I still want to do in my lifetime. I do tend to analyze myself a lot. There are things that I plan to do before this year's end and then there are things that I plan/want to do period. I have absolutely no desire to leave this world w/any regrets. Which leads me to today's post:

MY BUCKET LIST (and no, I've never seen the movie)

1. Go to Japan - I am so intrigued by the Japanese culture.
2. Go to Italy - to shop, of course
3. Participate in a Spanish language immersion program - seems so much more fun than simply purchasing the Rosetta program
4. Get a tattoo - this still fluctuates on and off my list. I'm somewhat undecided.
5. Go hang gliding - that looks so relaxing and exciting at the same time
6. Be an intellectual - being "super smart" is so sexy to me
7. Have my own organic garden in my backyard
8. Go to Maxwell Concert! Oh, that's right! I'm doing that tonight. Yay Me!

So far that's what I have. Keep in mind that I tweek this from time to time. Adding or changing things as I continue to grow in my life.


What's on your "Bucket List"?.......

Post Title My "Bucket" List

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

My Raw Journey Update


Good Morning Beautifuls!

I feel so much better than I did yesterday. I got a little more sleep. How about you? I hope that you're doing well.

I have come to the conclusion that I am going to have to go cold turkey in my quest to go raw. Keep in mind that I plan on only being 80 to 90% raw. I had thought about purchasing "The Box" from www.rawvolution.com. But after much contemplation, I believe it will be cheaper for me to purchase ready-made raw meals from Sprout Cafe. I figure I can get double the amount of food for under $100. This should help me in process. Either way, something must be done b/c this weekend was a bust for me.

I have been able to incorporate more greens in my smoothies without ill effect. I was slightly "headachy". Seeing as that's a good sign of detoxification that just confirms I'm on the right track. Aside from those things, I will be placing my order for my personal blender. YAY ME!.. And I've decided that I will purchase the Hemp Maca E3Live Protein Powder. I read/heard some good things about the e3Live products, so I will add this powder to my smoothies. I may go ahead and purchase some regular raw powder like Maca or Acai but my schedule calls for me to get some extra in my diet.

What about you? What are you doing to eat more healthy?...

Post Title My Raw Journey Update

Monday, November 10, 2008

.....EXHAUSTED........


Good Morning Beautifuls!

I'm pooped! I did some strenuous fundraising this weekend for my daughters competitive cheerleading team. 13 hr day on Sunday at the Dome for the Falcons/Saints game was "no joke"! (Goodness! I don't work this hard at my 9 to 5 job!) But it's for the kiddies and it's all worth it! Anyhoo, I hope that you all had a wonderful weekend!

Will be in full effect on tomorrow!
Smooches....

Post Title .....EXHAUSTED........

Friday, November 7, 2008

Good Morning Beautifuls!


I am honestly still floating from the election events on the 4th. To know that we put Barack in office really makes me feel proud. I feel like Michelle Obama.."proud to be an American." I am feeling hope instead of fear. I'm actually feeling like we can do this. We can turn it around -- together.

I hope that you all have a wonderful weekend!


Peace and Smooches...

Post Title Good Morning Beautifuls!

Thursday, November 6, 2008

Dryness Be Gone!



I think that I have solved my issue that I was having w/my hair drying to the tune of "a bit crispy" during this cooler weather. I decided to try baggying (or at least my version of it). Baggying is basically deep conditioning your hair over the course of a few hours or overnight. I am choosing to do this overnight.

What I do is dampen my hair and apply the Cantu Shea Butter Leave-In. I then cover my hair with a satin cap. Normally, people baggy w/a plastic cap or grocery bag. I just can't sleep like that. I usually do this a couple of hours before I go to bed and just leave it on overnight. Once I get up in the morning, I do my usual routine. Rinse/saturate(only water) my hair for a couple of minutes under the shower stream. I then finger-detangle. I co-wash w/my choice of conditioner. This week it's Trader Joe's Nourish Spa Conditioner. I then section my hair in 4 to 5 sections and apply my Kinky-Curly Knot Today. No wringing out or towel drying. I get out of the shower and as I take down each section I apply a 60/40 mix of Qhemet's Olive & Honey Hydrating Balm and Alma & Olive Heavy Cream. I switched to sealing w/Qhemet's Indian Macassar Conditioning Oil (smells heavenly). And voila! My hair is still soft to touch!

What's your dryness cure-all?....

Post Title Dryness Be Gone!

Wednesday, November 5, 2008

Yes We Can!!......Yes We Did!



I cannot express the joy that I feel right now! In all honesty, as a black woman I never expected to see a black man as president of the United States in my lifetime. And that's truth be told. So the fact that he is actually in there does my heart some good. Now, everything that was said, the absurd/offensive commentary, the ridiculous and , often times, ignorant rumors..... are nothing to me but fleeting memories.

When 11 o'clock hit and I heard the commentator say that we would be hearing the patter of small feet in the White House -- that was it for me!

Yes We Can!..... Yes We Did!

I laughed. I cried. I'm good.
What about you?.. Where were you?.. What did you do?....

Post Title Yes We Can!!......Yes We Did!

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Today is the Day!!


Good Morning Good People!

Well....today is the day. It seems as if this election has been going on forever. And forever has finally come to an end. And history will be made either way. Whether it's the first black man elected for the president of the United States or whether it's the first woman elected as vice-president of the United States.

Personally, I'm glad that this day is finally here. This process has at times been very emotional for me. I will admit that I've gotten a little nervous as this day came closer. But today I woke up with peace of mind knowing that I've done all that I can do. It's truly in God's hands.

My heart goes out to Barack and his family. His grandmother has passed and will not get to see the outcome of this race. Regardless, I'm sure she was extremely proud of him - as I am. Please keep the Obama's in your prayers. As a matter of fact, continue to pray for this country in it's entirety. And no matter what the outcome is, I can truly say that his candidacy has touched me, motivated me and blessed me.

How are you feeling right now?......

Post Title Today is the Day!!

Monday, November 3, 2008

...!!! INCOMING NEWSFLASH !!!...



FYI!!

I was just on The Coil Review and read an interview that they did on Kinky-Curly's creator, Shelley Davis. What really caught my attention was Ms. Davis stating that Whole Foods Market is one of their newest retailers.

I'm so excited!! Now I don't have to drive to Urbanbella to pick up their products. Whole Foods is alot closer!

Post Title ...!!! INCOMING NEWSFLASH !!!...

I Just Had An Epiphany!


Okay... As I made my way down to the building's Cafe (cause I'm starving), I realized or remembered why I was craving some processed food this weekend. According to Victoria Boutenko in 12 Steps to Raw Foods, cravings are caused by our bodies need for nourishment.

In her book, she states the following:

....I believe that the epidemics of degenerative disease experienced today are rooted in the lack of proper nutrition that has already lasted for an extensive period of time......
To cope with the malnourishment, the human body creates an additional urge to eat, and we begin feeling constantly hungry. Our cells are "crying" for all the nutrients we need. Sadly, we respond to this urge by eating more processed food, which promotes even further malnourishment, along with an increased dependency on processed food, greater cravings, and compulsive eating. .....


She goes on to saying that is her reason she recommends nourishing your body by blending your greens into smoothies before switching to a raw diet. I so can't wait to get my blender (personal & regular)! This explains why I did better eating on Friday than Saturday. On Friday, I ended up getting a raw lunch from Return to Eden. It was actually one from Sprouts Cafe. It was a raw Pad Thai meal. It was delicioso!!

What is also key is preparation. The better prepared I am the better this transition will be. Either way, I'll be going for a greener smoothie tonight!

Post Title I Just Had An Epiphany!

Good Morning Beautifuls!

Happy Monday!

I hope that you had a wonderful weekend! I did. Had a lot to do but did manage to get a lot accomplished. So I'm happy. I've been doing pretty well w/my transitional diet. Although I must say I did indulge a bit this weekend. Saturday, I had a bit of a craving for some Popeye's chicken. (Yeah, I know.) So I went for it!. I just made sure that I ate well the rest of the day. I can remember a time when I really would have been hard on myself for doing that but after listening to a few raw foods lectures and reading different raw foods blogs, I'm okay with it. I recently went to a raw foods lecture at Life Grocery & Cafe in Marietta on last Thursday where Paul Nison (raw food author/lecturer) spoke. He said something that I keep hearing other raw foodists say, "This is an individual thing.". As someone seeking to transition into an 75 -80% raw foods diet, I can appreciate this.

Now, onto my hair. This cooler weather is working my hair over. And I really don't wanna do puffs all the time. But until I purchase a nice wig or try a different style it may have to do. Jeez..I'm really gonna have to press to get outta this hair funk that I feel I'm in. I also really need to deep condition so I'll handle that tonight. I forgot that I do have some Curls Ecstasy Hair Tea that I can do a DT with. That should hold me over until I purchase the Jessicurl WDT.

Are you in a "funk" of some sorts? If so, what are you doing to get out of it?...

Post Title Good Morning Beautifuls!