That being said, I've always found this particular lecture to be very very helpful. Abraham uses a really simple image (A Stream) to illustrate how we unnecessarily struggle in life.
Nothing you want is upstream.... for real!!
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Be Blessed: The Stream by Abraham
For those of you, unaware with Abraham, you can find a little backstory about Abraham, as well as Esther Hicks, Abraham's channel by clicking here. A lot of people say that channeled speakers are scam artists, but I feel that it's not the messenger that's important.. it's the message and leave it at that.
That being said, I've always found this particular lecture to be very very helpful. Abraham uses a really simple image (A Stream) to illustrate how we unnecessarily struggle in life.
Nothing you want is upstream.... for real!!
That being said, I've always found this particular lecture to be very very helpful. Abraham uses a really simple image (A Stream) to illustrate how we unnecessarily struggle in life.
Nothing you want is upstream.... for real!!
Saturday, February 27, 2010
A Little [COMMODORES] for a Saturday Night
They really don't make songs like this one anymore, huh? Such a smooth song about some fantastic musicians no longer with us! I call this song one of my favorite "taxi tunes": It's late at night and its raining... you're in a taxi heading home and this song comes on the radio. It just makes the trip so much more enjoyable!
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Cinema, Cuisine and Cocktail : "Soul Food" with Well... Soul Food!
I decided to create this new blog posting because (as I've mentioned before) I love the idea of having friends and family over for a good old fashioned Movie Night: Great flick, great food, and loads of fun. Rather then rip off the TBS station show "Dinner and a Movie", I thought I would do it one better and include a yummy yummy cocktail to accompany dinner.
What better movie to start with than "Soul Food"?!? Here is a meal that will make Big Mama proud! Enjoy!
Southern Fried Chicken
Recipe Courtesy of The Gutsy Gourmet
INGREDIENTS:
Buttermilk pulls double duty in this recipe, providing flavor and tenderizing the chicken. Although the
recipe traditionally calls for lard, shortening is a fine substitute. Serves 4 to 6.
INGREDIENTS
3 1/2- to 4-lb. chicken, cut into 8 pieces
2 cups buttermilk
1 tsp. black pepper, divided
1/4 tsp. salt
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp. seasoned salt, such as Lawry's
1 lb. lard (or solid vegetable shortening)
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
Step 1
Rinse the chicken pieces and blot them with paper towels. In a large bowl combine the buttermilk, 1/4
teaspoon of black pepper and the salt, and stir to combine.
Step 2
Add the chicken pieces and turn to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight,
turning the pieces occasionally.
Step 3
Combine the flour, seasoned salt and the remaining 3/4 teaspoon of black pepper in a shallow baking
dish and blend well. Line a baking sheet with three layers of paper towels and place it near the stove.
Step 4
Put the lard and butter in a large cast-iron frying pan or pot big enough to hold the chicken pieces in
one layer without touching. Melt over medium-high heat. The fat should be about 1/2-inch deep.
Step 5
Heat until it registers 365 degrees on a candy thermometer or until a small cube of bread dropped in
the oil browns in about 1 minute.
Step 6
Using tongs, remove the thighs from the marinade, draining well. Dredge them in the flour mixture,
turning to coat evenly. Shake off any excess flour. Place them skin-side down in the center of the pan.
Step 7
Coat the remaining pieces in the same way and add them to the pan in a single layer without touching.
Work in batches if necessary.
Step 8
Don't move the chicken for about 5 minutes or until the coating is set and looks firm. Check the
underside by lifting with the tongs--it should be deep golden. Cook the pieces between 8 and 20
minutes (depending on size), turning them periodically until crispy brown and cooked through.
Step 9
To test, cut into the thickest part of a piece. The juices should run clear and the meat should be opaque
throughout. Place on the paper-lined baking sheet to drain.
Step 10
Arrange the chicken pieces on a platter and serve hot, room temperature or cold.
Vegetarian Southern-Style Collard Greens
Recipe courtesy of Sunny Anderson, Food Network
Ingredients
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 tablespoon butter
* 1/2 large onion, chopped
* 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
* 1 clove garlic, finely chopped
* 1 pound collard greens, chopped
* 3 cups vegetable stock
* 2 tomatoes, seeded and chopped
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Directions
In a large pot over medium heat, heat oil and butter. Saute the onions until slightly softened, about 2 minutes, then add the red pepper flakes and garlic, cook another minute. Add collard greens and cook another minute. Add the vegetable stock, cover and bring to a simmer. Cook until greens are tender, about 40 minutes. Add tomatoes and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Candied Yams
Recipe Courtesy of AllRecipes.com
Ingredients
* 1 (29 ounce) can sweet potatoes
* 1/4 cup butter, cut into pieces
* 1/2 cup brown sugar
* 1 1/2 cups miniature marshmallows
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
2. Place sweet potatoes in a medium baking dish. Distribute butter pieces evenly over the sweet potatoes. Sprinkle with brown sugar. Layer with miniature marshmallows.
3. Cover and bake in the preheated oven 25 minutes, or until sweet potatoes are tender and marshmallows have melted.
Cornbread
Recipe courtesy of About.com
Ingredients:
* 2 cups yellow cornmeal
* 1 1/2 cups flour
* 2 teaspoons salt
* 2 teaspoons baking powder
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 2 tablespoons sugar, optional
* 3 eggs, beaten
* 1 tablespoon vegetable, for skillet
* 2 cups milk
* 1/4 cup melted butter
* melted butter for brushing top
Preparation:
Preheat oven to 425°. Put oil or shortening in a 10-inch iron skillet and place in the oven to preheat while making batter.
In a mixing bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, salt, baking powder, soda, and sugar, if using.
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and butter. Combine with dry ingredients and stir until all ingredients are moistened. Batter will be like a thick pancake batter.
Carefully, with heavy oven mitts, lift skillet out and turn to coat all of the inside surface with oil. Pour in batter and return to oven. Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes, until browned. A toothpick inserted in center should come out clean.
Memphis Iced Tea
Recipe courtesy of The Neelys, Food Network
Ingredients
* Ice
* Whiskey
* 1 can soda
* Sweet iced tea
* Lemon slices, for garnish
Directions
Fill 4 tall glasses with ice cubes. To each glass add a shot of whiskey, a spritz of soda and top with sweet iced tea. Stir to combine and garnish with a lemon slice.
What better movie to start with than "Soul Food"?!? Here is a meal that will make Big Mama proud! Enjoy!
Southern Fried Chicken
Recipe Courtesy of The Gutsy Gourmet
INGREDIENTS:
Buttermilk pulls double duty in this recipe, providing flavor and tenderizing the chicken. Although the
recipe traditionally calls for lard, shortening is a fine substitute. Serves 4 to 6.
INGREDIENTS
3 1/2- to 4-lb. chicken, cut into 8 pieces
2 cups buttermilk
1 tsp. black pepper, divided
1/4 tsp. salt
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp. seasoned salt, such as Lawry's
1 lb. lard (or solid vegetable shortening)
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
Step 1
Rinse the chicken pieces and blot them with paper towels. In a large bowl combine the buttermilk, 1/4
teaspoon of black pepper and the salt, and stir to combine.
Step 2
Add the chicken pieces and turn to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight,
turning the pieces occasionally.
Step 3
Combine the flour, seasoned salt and the remaining 3/4 teaspoon of black pepper in a shallow baking
dish and blend well. Line a baking sheet with three layers of paper towels and place it near the stove.
Step 4
Put the lard and butter in a large cast-iron frying pan or pot big enough to hold the chicken pieces in
one layer without touching. Melt over medium-high heat. The fat should be about 1/2-inch deep.
Step 5
Heat until it registers 365 degrees on a candy thermometer or until a small cube of bread dropped in
the oil browns in about 1 minute.
Step 6
Using tongs, remove the thighs from the marinade, draining well. Dredge them in the flour mixture,
turning to coat evenly. Shake off any excess flour. Place them skin-side down in the center of the pan.
Step 7
Coat the remaining pieces in the same way and add them to the pan in a single layer without touching.
Work in batches if necessary.
Step 8
Don't move the chicken for about 5 minutes or until the coating is set and looks firm. Check the
underside by lifting with the tongs--it should be deep golden. Cook the pieces between 8 and 20
minutes (depending on size), turning them periodically until crispy brown and cooked through.
Step 9
To test, cut into the thickest part of a piece. The juices should run clear and the meat should be opaque
throughout. Place on the paper-lined baking sheet to drain.
Step 10
Arrange the chicken pieces on a platter and serve hot, room temperature or cold.
Vegetarian Southern-Style Collard Greens
Recipe courtesy of Sunny Anderson, Food Network
Ingredients
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 tablespoon butter
* 1/2 large onion, chopped
* 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
* 1 clove garlic, finely chopped
* 1 pound collard greens, chopped
* 3 cups vegetable stock
* 2 tomatoes, seeded and chopped
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Directions
In a large pot over medium heat, heat oil and butter. Saute the onions until slightly softened, about 2 minutes, then add the red pepper flakes and garlic, cook another minute. Add collard greens and cook another minute. Add the vegetable stock, cover and bring to a simmer. Cook until greens are tender, about 40 minutes. Add tomatoes and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Candied Yams
Recipe Courtesy of AllRecipes.com
Ingredients
* 1 (29 ounce) can sweet potatoes
* 1/4 cup butter, cut into pieces
* 1/2 cup brown sugar
* 1 1/2 cups miniature marshmallows
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
2. Place sweet potatoes in a medium baking dish. Distribute butter pieces evenly over the sweet potatoes. Sprinkle with brown sugar. Layer with miniature marshmallows.
3. Cover and bake in the preheated oven 25 minutes, or until sweet potatoes are tender and marshmallows have melted.
Cornbread
Recipe courtesy of About.com
Ingredients:
* 2 cups yellow cornmeal
* 1 1/2 cups flour
* 2 teaspoons salt
* 2 teaspoons baking powder
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 2 tablespoons sugar, optional
* 3 eggs, beaten
* 1 tablespoon vegetable, for skillet
* 2 cups milk
* 1/4 cup melted butter
* melted butter for brushing top
Preparation:
Preheat oven to 425°. Put oil or shortening in a 10-inch iron skillet and place in the oven to preheat while making batter.
In a mixing bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, salt, baking powder, soda, and sugar, if using.
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and butter. Combine with dry ingredients and stir until all ingredients are moistened. Batter will be like a thick pancake batter.
Carefully, with heavy oven mitts, lift skillet out and turn to coat all of the inside surface with oil. Pour in batter and return to oven. Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes, until browned. A toothpick inserted in center should come out clean.
Memphis Iced Tea
Recipe courtesy of The Neelys, Food Network
Ingredients
* Ice
* Whiskey
* 1 can soda
* Sweet iced tea
* Lemon slices, for garnish
Directions
Fill 4 tall glasses with ice cubes. To each glass add a shot of whiskey, a spritz of soda and top with sweet iced tea. Stir to combine and garnish with a lemon slice.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Quest for *THE* Bag: Lost in Ebay World!
At the advise of my handbag guru, Elaine... I stalked Ebay for the past 7 days, looking for *THE* Bag, only to find some information and an ethical dilema.
According to several online reports, most of the "Authentic" designer handbags sold on Ebay are very convincing fakes.
I wish I could say that this surprises me, but it doesn't. How else would you buy a $25,000 handbag online for crackhead prices unless it's bogus?
Message to Ebay Sellers: You know the bag is fake, I know the bag is fake... Don't insult my intelligence by asking for over $250. For real.
Do I have a problem with fakes? No. Do I drink the "Oh these poor, poor designers are getting ripped off.. boo hoo!" Kool-Aid? No. Do I have a problem supporting counterfeiting? Kinda, actually. Primarily because I don't know exactly who is making a profit from my support (The conspiracy theorist in me SWEARS it's the "Poor Designers" themselves. Because the same people that complain about losing money are the same people that clamor to give celebrities these bags FOR FREE so that they could be seen and photographed wearing them... which makes us want to buy them. And of course we can't afford them, so we buy knock offs. But I digress..lol).
Right now I have to weigh the pros and cons... One the one hand, I can get a very reasonable impostor of *THE* Bag for a song (So what if it's a GOUCHI instead of a Gucci? lol). On the other hand, I am concerned about who benefits from the sale of this merchandise (drug dealers, mafia, etc.)?
What's your philosophy on designer knockoffs? Do you buy them?Would you?
According to several online reports, most of the "Authentic" designer handbags sold on Ebay are very convincing fakes.
I wish I could say that this surprises me, but it doesn't. How else would you buy a $25,000 handbag online for crackhead prices unless it's bogus?
Message to Ebay Sellers: You know the bag is fake, I know the bag is fake... Don't insult my intelligence by asking for over $250. For real.
Do I have a problem with fakes? No. Do I drink the "Oh these poor, poor designers are getting ripped off.. boo hoo!" Kool-Aid? No. Do I have a problem supporting counterfeiting? Kinda, actually. Primarily because I don't know exactly who is making a profit from my support (The conspiracy theorist in me SWEARS it's the "Poor Designers" themselves. Because the same people that complain about losing money are the same people that clamor to give celebrities these bags FOR FREE so that they could be seen and photographed wearing them... which makes us want to buy them. And of course we can't afford them, so we buy knock offs. But I digress..lol).
Right now I have to weigh the pros and cons... One the one hand, I can get a very reasonable impostor of *THE* Bag for a song (So what if it's a GOUCHI instead of a Gucci? lol). On the other hand, I am concerned about who benefits from the sale of this merchandise (drug dealers, mafia, etc.)?
What's your philosophy on designer knockoffs? Do you buy them?Would you?
Monday, February 22, 2010
Music Therapy with Miss Moon
Today the City was flirtatious with a hint of Spring in the air. It immediately evoked days to come where you can rock denim jackets and umbrellas... A time when the air smells all fertile and heavy with rain. With that inspiration and what's to come on the horizon, I bring you a little "Love Rain"... Courtesy of Mos Def and Jill Scott! Enjoy!
[Jill Scott]
Love rain down on me, on me, down on me
Love rain down on me, on me, down on me
Love rain down on me, on me, down on me
Met him on a Thursday, sunny afternoon
Cumulus clouds, 84 degrees
He was brown, deep
Said he wanted to talk about my mission
Listen to my past lives. (Word?)
Took me on long walks to places where butterflies rest easy
Talked about Moses and Mumia
Reparations, blue colors, memories of shell-topped Adidas
He was fresh, like summer peaches
Sweet on my mind like block parties and penny candy
Us was nice and warm, no jacket, no umbrella, just warm
At night we would watch the stars
And he would physically give me each and every one
I felt like cayenne pepper, red, hot, spicy
I felt dizzy and so near heaven and miles between my thighs
Better than love, we made delicious
He me had, had me he
He had me tongue tied
I could hear his rhythm in my thoughts
I was his sharp, his horn section
His boom and his bip
And he was my love
Love rain down on me, on me, down on me
The rain was fallin' and, and slowly and sweetly and stinging my eyes
And I could not see that he became my voodoo priest
And I was his faithful concubine
Wide open, wide, loose like bowels after collard greens
The mistake was made
Love slipped from my lips
Dripped down my chin and landed in his lap
And us became new
Now me non-clarivoyant and in love
Made the coochie easy and the obvious invisible
The rain was falling
And I couldn't see the season changing
And the vibe slipping off it's axis
Our beautiful melody became wildly staccato
(Repeat 1 in background)
The rain was falling and I could not see
That I was to be plowed and sowed and fertilized
And left to drown in his sunny afternoon
Cumulus clouds, 84 degrees, melody
Love rain down on me, on me, down on me
Love rain down on me, on me, down on me
[Mos Def]
I stretched my arms towards the sky like blades of tall grass
The sun beat between my shoulders like carnival drums
I sat still in hopes that it would help my wings grow
So then I could really be fly
And then she arrived
Like day break inside a railway tunnel
Like the new moon, like a diamond in the mines
Like high noon to a drunkard, sudden
She made my heart beat in a now-now time signature
Her skinny canvas for ultraviolet brushstrokes
She was the sun's painting
She was a deep cognac color
Her eyes sparkled like lights along the new city
She lips pursed as if her breath was too sweet
And full for her mouth to hold
I said, "You are the beautiful, distress of mathematics."
I said, "For you, I would peel open the clouds like new fruit
And give you lightning and thunder as a dowry
I would make the sky shed all of it's stars like rain
And I would clasp the constellations across your waist
And I would make the heavens your cape
And they would be pleased to cover you
They would be pleased to cover you
May I please, cover you, please"
[Jill Scott]
Love rain down on me, on me, down on me
Love rain down on me, on me, down on me
Love rain down on me, on me, down on me
Met him on a Thursday, sunny afternoon
Cumulus clouds, 84 degrees
He was brown, deep
Said he wanted to talk about my mission
Listen to my past lives. (Word?)
Took me on long walks to places where butterflies rest easy
Talked about Moses and Mumia
Reparations, blue colors, memories of shell-topped Adidas
He was fresh, like summer peaches
Sweet on my mind like block parties and penny candy
Us was nice and warm, no jacket, no umbrella, just warm
At night we would watch the stars
And he would physically give me each and every one
I felt like cayenne pepper, red, hot, spicy
I felt dizzy and so near heaven and miles between my thighs
Better than love, we made delicious
He me had, had me he
He had me tongue tied
I could hear his rhythm in my thoughts
I was his sharp, his horn section
His boom and his bip
And he was my love
Love rain down on me, on me, down on me
The rain was fallin' and, and slowly and sweetly and stinging my eyes
And I could not see that he became my voodoo priest
And I was his faithful concubine
Wide open, wide, loose like bowels after collard greens
The mistake was made
Love slipped from my lips
Dripped down my chin and landed in his lap
And us became new
Now me non-clarivoyant and in love
Made the coochie easy and the obvious invisible
The rain was falling
And I couldn't see the season changing
And the vibe slipping off it's axis
Our beautiful melody became wildly staccato
(Repeat 1 in background)
The rain was falling and I could not see
That I was to be plowed and sowed and fertilized
And left to drown in his sunny afternoon
Cumulus clouds, 84 degrees, melody
Love rain down on me, on me, down on me
Love rain down on me, on me, down on me
[Mos Def]
I stretched my arms towards the sky like blades of tall grass
The sun beat between my shoulders like carnival drums
I sat still in hopes that it would help my wings grow
So then I could really be fly
And then she arrived
Like day break inside a railway tunnel
Like the new moon, like a diamond in the mines
Like high noon to a drunkard, sudden
She made my heart beat in a now-now time signature
Her skinny canvas for ultraviolet brushstrokes
She was the sun's painting
She was a deep cognac color
Her eyes sparkled like lights along the new city
She lips pursed as if her breath was too sweet
And full for her mouth to hold
I said, "You are the beautiful, distress of mathematics."
I said, "For you, I would peel open the clouds like new fruit
And give you lightning and thunder as a dowry
I would make the sky shed all of it's stars like rain
And I would clasp the constellations across your waist
And I would make the heavens your cape
And they would be pleased to cover you
They would be pleased to cover you
May I please, cover you, please"
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Be Blessed: Experiencing Unapologetic Joy
Those of you that have visited or lived in New York City know that we have our share of characters. Last week, on my way to the subway from work, I spotted a man, skipping down Nassau Street. He wasn't arm-in-arm with a lover, and he wasn't drunk or crazy. He was just skipping.. for reasons specifically his own.
On lookers pointed and stared, shaking their head in amazement. Others vocally questioned his sanity. I thought he was dope as hell, and to be honest, I was a bit envious. I was jealous that in my tired, work worn state, I couldn't conjure up the pure, unapologetic joy it takes to skip down the street.
This week, I am going to embrace every opportunity to fully experience joy. And when I feel inclined to, I will express it openly and fully.
On lookers pointed and stared, shaking their head in amazement. Others vocally questioned his sanity. I thought he was dope as hell, and to be honest, I was a bit envious. I was jealous that in my tired, work worn state, I couldn't conjure up the pure, unapologetic joy it takes to skip down the street.
This week, I am going to embrace every opportunity to fully experience joy. And when I feel inclined to, I will express it openly and fully.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
A Little [DES'REE] for a Saturday Night
What happened to Des'ree, anyway? I love her voice!
Des'ree - Feel So High
Friday, February 19, 2010
D-I-Y Nappturaliciously: Miss Jessie's Super Sweetback Treatment Review
This will be the first product from Miss Jessie's line that I ever tried. When I read about Miss Jessie's Super Sweetback Treatment, I thought that a)this would be a great Valentine's Day Present to Myself and b) this would be a good product to try for the first time!
According to Miss Jessie's: Miss Jessie's Super Sweetback Treatment is the essential treatment for growing out naturally curly, kinky, and wavy hair. Healthy growh and length is what most curlies covet. Miss Jessie's can assist you in this process. An elongated curl has more bounce, is more manageable, and is less prone to frizz. Be Super Sweet to your curls. Miss Jessie's Super Sweetback Treatment is a decadent softening treatment which ensures that your curls reach long luxurious lengths. This reach treatment full of shea butter and centella extract is a growth stimulant that promotes long healthy curls. Your hair is gonna love you for this!
The Ingredients: Water (Agua), Behentrimonium, Methosulfate (and) Cetyl Alcohol, Stearyl Alcohol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Fragrance, Dimethicone, DMDM Hydantoin (and) Ioopropynyl Butylcarbamate, Ceteareth-20, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Lipsome (Centella Asiatica), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, EDTA Disodium, Tocopheryl Acetate, Mangifera Indica (Mango) Seed Butter, D&C Red #33, Citric Acid
The Process: As per my usual cleansing routine, I separated my hair into four sections which I loosley braid. In the shower I loosen each section, finger detangle, apply shampoo (Apoghee Shampoo for Damaged Hair), lather, comb with shampoo comb and rinse out. After rinsing, I loosely braid it back up and move on to the next section.
Once out of the shower, I took down each braided section and applied a small scoopful of Super Sweetback Treatment, smoothing down each section from root to ends.
In the jar, the smell was very subtle and nice, kind of like Juicy Fruit gum. This is smelling it while the protective seal is still on, mind you. Once I opened it and started to apply it, the smell took on a smell that was more like Pepto Bismol Chewtabs... which isn't necessarily a bad thing, but it's no Juicy Fruit! LOL
According to Miss Jessie's: After applying, run a wide tooth comb through hair to detangle.
This isn't part of my usual regime, so I did it my way. After adding the treatment to the section, I braid it right back up and keep it moving.
The slip is amazing, though I've always heard from Jess Heads that their conditioners have excellent slip. I would've been shocked and surprised if this was the exception.
After all four sections were done, I scooped a little bit more out of the jar and applied it solely on my ends (in their braids) and covered my hair up with a plastic conditioning cap.
According to Miss Jessie's: Super Sweetback Treatment's growing properties ae amplified when used during a steam treatment or under an overhead drying on a heated setting.
I deep condition using a heat cap (this is the only heat I've applied to my hair in almost two years!), so I covered applied this to my hair for about two hours (which is NOT my normal deep conditioning time... but I got caught up playing Wedding Dash.. LOL). The instructions recommend you keep it in for 30 minutes.
According to Miss Jessie's: Miss Jessie's Super Sweetback Treatment is the essential treatment for growing out naturally curly, kinky, and wavy hair. Healthy growh and length is what most curlies covet. Miss Jessie's can assist you in this process. An elongated curl has more bounce, is more manageable, and is less prone to frizz. Be Super Sweet to your curls. Miss Jessie's Super Sweetback Treatment is a decadent softening treatment which ensures that your curls reach long luxurious lengths. This reach treatment full of shea butter and centella extract is a growth stimulant that promotes long healthy curls. Your hair is gonna love you for this!
The Ingredients: Water (Agua), Behentrimonium, Methosulfate (and) Cetyl Alcohol, Stearyl Alcohol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Fragrance, Dimethicone, DMDM Hydantoin (and) Ioopropynyl Butylcarbamate, Ceteareth-20, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Lipsome (Centella Asiatica), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, EDTA Disodium, Tocopheryl Acetate, Mangifera Indica (Mango) Seed Butter, D&C Red #33, Citric Acid
The Process: As per my usual cleansing routine, I separated my hair into four sections which I loosley braid. In the shower I loosen each section, finger detangle, apply shampoo (Apoghee Shampoo for Damaged Hair), lather, comb with shampoo comb and rinse out. After rinsing, I loosely braid it back up and move on to the next section.
Once out of the shower, I took down each braided section and applied a small scoopful of Super Sweetback Treatment, smoothing down each section from root to ends.
In the jar, the smell was very subtle and nice, kind of like Juicy Fruit gum. This is smelling it while the protective seal is still on, mind you. Once I opened it and started to apply it, the smell took on a smell that was more like Pepto Bismol Chewtabs... which isn't necessarily a bad thing, but it's no Juicy Fruit! LOL
According to Miss Jessie's: After applying, run a wide tooth comb through hair to detangle.
This isn't part of my usual regime, so I did it my way. After adding the treatment to the section, I braid it right back up and keep it moving.
The slip is amazing, though I've always heard from Jess Heads that their conditioners have excellent slip. I would've been shocked and surprised if this was the exception.
After all four sections were done, I scooped a little bit more out of the jar and applied it solely on my ends (in their braids) and covered my hair up with a plastic conditioning cap.
According to Miss Jessie's: Super Sweetback Treatment's growing properties ae amplified when used during a steam treatment or under an overhead drying on a heated setting.
I deep condition using a heat cap (this is the only heat I've applied to my hair in almost two years!), so I covered applied this to my hair for about two hours (which is NOT my normal deep conditioning time... but I got caught up playing Wedding Dash.. LOL). The instructions recommend you keep it in for 30 minutes.
Sexy, huh? (And in case you're wondering... yes... that is a Snuggie!) LMAO
After washing the conditioning out of each section, I didn't notice a ridiculously dramatic difference, but my hair was soft and tangle-free and the curl definition was a bit more apparent.
I styled my hair in my normal braids and am now letting it try as I type this. So far, I like Miss Jessie's Super Sweetback Treatment. I plan on using it weekly (Replacing my Olive Oil Deep Conditioning Treatment) until it runs out... and at that time I will blog a follow up to this entry (So it will probably be a "I'm Really Diggin'" or a "Not So Much" entry... depending on the results! LOL
Yummm! Shredded Sesame Chicken
Monday evening, Chris and I went out to dinner with my soul sister/ace/bff Natasha and her sweetie pie, Robert. We initially had plans to go to BBQs, but apparently so did everyone in Brooklyn. LOL
We ended up taking a stroll over to Montague Street over to Lichee Nut, where I had the best Sesame Chicken I've had in AGES!!!!
I don't know if this is a general way to make Sesame Chicken, but most Chinese Restaurants in New York serve the chicken in chunks. Lichee gave us the option of having it shredded or in chunks, and we chose shredded. I enjoyed the food, the Plum Wine, the great conversation and company, so this recipe goes out to Tasha and Robert! We must go out on a double date again soon!
Flawless Sesame Chicken (Restaurant Style)
Recipe Courtesy of RecipeZaar.com
SERVES 3 -4 (change servings and units)
Ingredients
* 3 whole boneless chicken breasts
Marinade
* 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
* 1 tablespoon cooking wine or dry sherry
* 3 drops sesame oil
* 2 tablespoons flour
* 2 tablespoons cornstarch
* 2 tablespoons water
* 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
Sauce
* 1/2 cup water
* 1 cup chicken broth
* 1/8-1/4 cup white vinegar or rice wine vinegar (depending on how sweet you want the sauce)
* 1/4 cup cornstarch
* 1 cup sugar (we use 1/2 cup sugar but the orginal recipe called for 1 cup)
* 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce
* 2 tablespoons sesame oil
* 1 teaspoon chili paste (or more)
* 1 garlic clove (minced)
Frying
* peanut oil (3 1/2-4 cups)
Serving
* 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
Directions
1. Cut the chicken into slices. Mix the marinade ingredients (the first 9 ingredients listed) and marinate the chicken for 20 minutes.
2. To prepare the sauce: Mix together all of the sauce ingredients. Pour them into a small pot and bring to a boil, stirring continuously. Turn the heat down to low and keep warm while you are deep-frying the chicken.
3. To deep-fry the chicken: Add the marinated chicken pieces a few at a time, and deep-fry until golden brown. Drain on paper towels and then place chicken in warm oven (130 degrees) while you continue frying. Repeat with the remainder of the chicken. Just before you are finished deep-frying, bring the sauce back up to a boil.
4. Place the chicken on a large platter and pour the sauce over. Sprinkle with sesame seeds. Serve the Sesame Chicken with rice.
We ended up taking a stroll over to Montague Street over to Lichee Nut, where I had the best Sesame Chicken I've had in AGES!!!!
I don't know if this is a general way to make Sesame Chicken, but most Chinese Restaurants in New York serve the chicken in chunks. Lichee gave us the option of having it shredded or in chunks, and we chose shredded. I enjoyed the food, the Plum Wine, the great conversation and company, so this recipe goes out to Tasha and Robert! We must go out on a double date again soon!
Flawless Sesame Chicken (Restaurant Style)
Recipe Courtesy of RecipeZaar.com
SERVES 3 -4 (change servings and units)
Ingredients
* 3 whole boneless chicken breasts
Marinade
* 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
* 1 tablespoon cooking wine or dry sherry
* 3 drops sesame oil
* 2 tablespoons flour
* 2 tablespoons cornstarch
* 2 tablespoons water
* 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
Sauce
* 1/2 cup water
* 1 cup chicken broth
* 1/8-1/4 cup white vinegar or rice wine vinegar (depending on how sweet you want the sauce)
* 1/4 cup cornstarch
* 1 cup sugar (we use 1/2 cup sugar but the orginal recipe called for 1 cup)
* 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce
* 2 tablespoons sesame oil
* 1 teaspoon chili paste (or more)
* 1 garlic clove (minced)
Frying
* peanut oil (3 1/2-4 cups)
Serving
* 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
Directions
1. Cut the chicken into slices. Mix the marinade ingredients (the first 9 ingredients listed) and marinate the chicken for 20 minutes.
2. To prepare the sauce: Mix together all of the sauce ingredients. Pour them into a small pot and bring to a boil, stirring continuously. Turn the heat down to low and keep warm while you are deep-frying the chicken.
3. To deep-fry the chicken: Add the marinated chicken pieces a few at a time, and deep-fry until golden brown. Drain on paper towels and then place chicken in warm oven (130 degrees) while you continue frying. Repeat with the remainder of the chicken. Just before you are finished deep-frying, bring the sauce back up to a boil.
4. Place the chicken on a large platter and pour the sauce over. Sprinkle with sesame seeds. Serve the Sesame Chicken with rice.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Music Therapy with Miss Moon
When I was much younger (We're talking late teens to early 20s)... I thought that the sign of someone being a good person was the number of friends you had. So I people pleased myself a group of folks, some who were genuine, some sadly, were not.
Around the time I turned 30, I recognized that I didn't want to enter the next decade of my existence with people who weren't go to me, and most importantly, good for me. And I actually gave many of the shady folks an opportunity to do right. They didn't (seeing as they were shady and all), so I let them go and my life has been better for it.
So this week's Music Therapy with Miss Moon is dedicated to the Spirit of Friendship, Jody Watley, "Friends". Because it sometimes takes a crappy friend to teach you who your true, ride-or-die friends are.... and I thank am thankful for learning that lesson!!!
Around the time I turned 30, I recognized that I didn't want to enter the next decade of my existence with people who weren't go to me, and most importantly, good for me. And I actually gave many of the shady folks an opportunity to do right. They didn't (seeing as they were shady and all), so I let them go and my life has been better for it.
So this week's Music Therapy with Miss Moon is dedicated to the Spirit of Friendship, Jody Watley, "Friends". Because it sometimes takes a crappy friend to teach you who your true, ride-or-die friends are.... and I thank am thankful for learning that lesson!!!
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
I SWEAR I'm not Obsessed (But I AM a Little Dorky) About....
Oh, hella... who am I kidding? I am TOTALLY obsessed with what I call *The* handbag. It has become an obsession of mine that has me searching the four corners of the Universe (well, the four corners of the Internet) to find.
Of course I first saw the bag on "Girlfriends"*....
*I got the picture by pausing the DVD and using my BlackBerry. Ghetto as hell, I know.. but you get the idea! LOL
So far, I've discovered that *The* Bag is from Gucci and that its a black leather horsebit hobo. Now, with that information, I know that there is NO WAY IN HELL I will be rocking the same bag anytime soon (I am hardly a lawyer-turned-restaurateur), but it has become my new mission to find a reasonable facsimile for someone making Customer Service Representative money! LOL
I've decided to chronicle my search with a new blog post called ::::drumroll, please::::: Quest for *THE* Bag.. so this entry is actually a crossover blog, as it's a "I SWEAR I'm not Obsessed" and also the first entry for Quest for *THE* Bag... Hooray! My first crossover!!!
In my search, I discovered a better picture of what I think is *THE* Bag, courtesy of Jessica Simpson and the folks at CelebrityArmCandy.com --
Of course any information any of my readers have that will lead me closer to *THE* Bag for insanely cheap (or an insanely identical knock off) would be greatly appreciated!!!!!!!!
Of course I first saw the bag on "Girlfriends"*....
*I got the picture by pausing the DVD and using my BlackBerry. Ghetto as hell, I know.. but you get the idea! LOL
So far, I've discovered that *The* Bag is from Gucci and that its a black leather horsebit hobo. Now, with that information, I know that there is NO WAY IN HELL I will be rocking the same bag anytime soon (I am hardly a lawyer-turned-restaurateur), but it has become my new mission to find a reasonable facsimile for someone making Customer Service Representative money! LOL
I've decided to chronicle my search with a new blog post called ::::drumroll, please::::: Quest for *THE* Bag.. so this entry is actually a crossover blog, as it's a "I SWEAR I'm not Obsessed" and also the first entry for Quest for *THE* Bag... Hooray! My first crossover!!!
In my search, I discovered a better picture of what I think is *THE* Bag, courtesy of Jessica Simpson and the folks at CelebrityArmCandy.com --
Of course any information any of my readers have that will lead me closer to *THE* Bag for insanely cheap (or an insanely identical knock off) would be greatly appreciated!!!!!!!!
Monday, February 15, 2010
Be Blessed: Be Your Own Valentine
"You, yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection." -- Buddha
This quote really struck at me in a very profound way when I first read it several years ago. I was nursing the wounds of a rather bad break up and felt like I was doomed to spend my days alone and unloved and that was a fate far worse than death to me (I was in my early 20s...).
And I decided to take a hiatus from dating and work on myself. And I explored my spirituality, and devoured the works of Shakti Gawain, Iyanla Vanzant, and Marianne Williamson. I definitely considered that period in myself a spiritual hibernation, as I spent a lot of time working on myself and pretty much kept myself cloistered away.
I think the pinnacle for me was when I took myself out on a date for the first time. I went to the movies ("Hedwig & The Angry Inch") and went out to dinner. Alone. And it wasn't as crazy and awkward as I thought it would be. In that period of my life I learned that being alone does not mean lonely.
Now that I am in a relationship, I have learned that the work on yourself doesn't end because you have someone. I still make a point to do things for myself.. it's become a ritual for me. And I will continue to evolve and grow until I'm dead... because it's nourishing for me, and if it's good for me, it's bound to be good for my relationship.
This week, I will keep in mind this powerful affirmation by Louise Hay, and I hope that you will too. Happy Valentine's Day, Everybody!!!
I Love Myself Affirmation
Louise Hay
Deep at the centre of my being,
there is an infinite well of love.
I now allow this love to flow to the surface.
It fills my heart, my body, my mind, my consciousness,
my very being, and radiates out from me in all directions
and returns to me mutliplied.
The more love I use and give, the more I have to give.
The supply is endless.
The use of love makes me feel good,
it is an expression of my inner joy.
I love myself;
therefore, I take loving care of my body.
I lovingly feed it nourishing foods and beverages,
I lovingly groom it and dress it, and my body lovingly
responds to me with vibrant health and energy.
I love myself; therefore provide for myself
a comfortable home, one that fills
all my needs and is a pleasure to be in.
I fill the rooms with the vibration of love
so that all who enter, myself included,
will feel this love and be nourished by it.
I love myself; therefore I work at a job I truly enjoy
doing, one that uses my creative talents and abilities,
working with and for people I love and who love me,
and earning a good income.
I love myself; therefore, I behave and think in a loving
way to all people for I know that that which I give out
returns to me multiplied.
I only attract loving people in my world,
for they are a mirror of what I am.
I love myself; therefore I forgive and totally release
the past and all past experiences and I am free.
I love myself; therefore I live totally in the now,
experiencing each moment as good and knowing that
my future is bright and joyous and secure,
for I am a beloved child of the Universe
and the Universe lovingly takes care of me
now and forever more.
And so it is.
by Louise Hay, from "You Can Heal Your Life"
This quote really struck at me in a very profound way when I first read it several years ago. I was nursing the wounds of a rather bad break up and felt like I was doomed to spend my days alone and unloved and that was a fate far worse than death to me (I was in my early 20s...).
And I decided to take a hiatus from dating and work on myself. And I explored my spirituality, and devoured the works of Shakti Gawain, Iyanla Vanzant, and Marianne Williamson. I definitely considered that period in myself a spiritual hibernation, as I spent a lot of time working on myself and pretty much kept myself cloistered away.
I think the pinnacle for me was when I took myself out on a date for the first time. I went to the movies ("Hedwig & The Angry Inch") and went out to dinner. Alone. And it wasn't as crazy and awkward as I thought it would be. In that period of my life I learned that being alone does not mean lonely.
Now that I am in a relationship, I have learned that the work on yourself doesn't end because you have someone. I still make a point to do things for myself.. it's become a ritual for me. And I will continue to evolve and grow until I'm dead... because it's nourishing for me, and if it's good for me, it's bound to be good for my relationship.
This week, I will keep in mind this powerful affirmation by Louise Hay, and I hope that you will too. Happy Valentine's Day, Everybody!!!
I Love Myself Affirmation
Louise Hay
Deep at the centre of my being,
there is an infinite well of love.
I now allow this love to flow to the surface.
It fills my heart, my body, my mind, my consciousness,
my very being, and radiates out from me in all directions
and returns to me mutliplied.
The more love I use and give, the more I have to give.
The supply is endless.
The use of love makes me feel good,
it is an expression of my inner joy.
I love myself;
therefore, I take loving care of my body.
I lovingly feed it nourishing foods and beverages,
I lovingly groom it and dress it, and my body lovingly
responds to me with vibrant health and energy.
I love myself; therefore provide for myself
a comfortable home, one that fills
all my needs and is a pleasure to be in.
I fill the rooms with the vibration of love
so that all who enter, myself included,
will feel this love and be nourished by it.
I love myself; therefore I work at a job I truly enjoy
doing, one that uses my creative talents and abilities,
working with and for people I love and who love me,
and earning a good income.
I love myself; therefore, I behave and think in a loving
way to all people for I know that that which I give out
returns to me multiplied.
I only attract loving people in my world,
for they are a mirror of what I am.
I love myself; therefore I forgive and totally release
the past and all past experiences and I am free.
I love myself; therefore I live totally in the now,
experiencing each moment as good and knowing that
my future is bright and joyous and secure,
for I am a beloved child of the Universe
and the Universe lovingly takes care of me
now and forever more.
And so it is.
by Louise Hay, from "You Can Heal Your Life"
Saturday, February 13, 2010
A Little [BETTY DAVIS] for a Saturday Night
If you consider yourself a music lover and do not know who Betty (Mabry) Davis is, you are definitely missing out. This is one of my favorite songs from her, and I think it's a perfect Saturday Night song.... you may be alone right now, but in the meantime, you can enjoy your Saturday Night and this badass song by Betty Davis, "In the Meantime". Enjoy!!
Friday, February 12, 2010
DOPE: "Money" Poetri
I think I am not the only one who can surely relate to my man Poetri! LOL
MONEY
By Poetri
My money has been acting funny, lately
Tripping.
This ain't the first time.
Every now and then, I can expect money to disappear for awhile,
watch me smile when I see her back in my hands.
My money's been acting funny, lately,
and I don't mean ha ha funny.
No, I'm talking strange wierd, different type funny.
This time money's gone all out,
leaving me, showing up and then leaving as quickly as she came,
ignoring me, treating me like a poor man,
What I do boo?
All I ever did was love you!
Maybe too much, cause now it's like we ain't cool no more.
We use to be ro-dogs, inseparable,
but lately my money's been acting funny and I haven't seen money in months.
I have more than a hunch that she's playing me, trying to make me jaelous,
hanging out with other fellas,
always in some other brothers pocket.
I try and tell her that those other guys are just using her.
"They just using you, money!!"
She don't wanna hear me.
She doesn't even return my phone calls.
She won't go to the movies with me.
She won't even go with me to get nothing to eat.
And you know a brother can't eat, without money!
Don't you know I miss you? I want you!
Okay, I need you to survive, my life evolves around you.
I can't replace you money, believe me I've tried.
There's only so much bread and water I can take.
Call me spoiled, but I remember the days when people use to see at the hottest clubs,
the expensive restaurants,
all the high-priced stores. I made sure I looked good with money.
I treated you right! I never abused you...did I?
Money, did I abuse you? Did I love you too much?
Did I get used to you hanging around
and now you're giving me a taste of what it feels like to live without you?
People still think we're tight!
They still ask about you.
I don't like them all in my business, so I just reply, money and I,
aren't as close as we used to be.
My money's been acting funny, lately.
I can't even call out her name when I'm playing ball.
I saw her the other day in Beverly Hills. She didn't even acknowledge me.
She looked at me like "...what are you doing in Beverly Hills?
Ever since money hasn't been around, I feel like I'm losing my other friends, too!
American Express, Visa, Discover, now they starting to act shady.
I think she's spreading lies on me!
I tell you, I don't know what I did, but my money's been acting real funny, lately.
And I don't know her anymore and my life ain't same.
Never will be the same, until money comes back into my life.
So, if you see her, or any of her family,
she has a whole bunch of cousins running around,
let her know that I miss her,
I love her,
and I want her to come home.
MONEY
By Poetri
My money has been acting funny, lately
Tripping.
This ain't the first time.
Every now and then, I can expect money to disappear for awhile,
watch me smile when I see her back in my hands.
My money's been acting funny, lately,
and I don't mean ha ha funny.
No, I'm talking strange wierd, different type funny.
This time money's gone all out,
leaving me, showing up and then leaving as quickly as she came,
ignoring me, treating me like a poor man,
What I do boo?
All I ever did was love you!
Maybe too much, cause now it's like we ain't cool no more.
We use to be ro-dogs, inseparable,
but lately my money's been acting funny and I haven't seen money in months.
I have more than a hunch that she's playing me, trying to make me jaelous,
hanging out with other fellas,
always in some other brothers pocket.
I try and tell her that those other guys are just using her.
"They just using you, money!!"
She don't wanna hear me.
She doesn't even return my phone calls.
She won't go to the movies with me.
She won't even go with me to get nothing to eat.
And you know a brother can't eat, without money!
Don't you know I miss you? I want you!
Okay, I need you to survive, my life evolves around you.
I can't replace you money, believe me I've tried.
There's only so much bread and water I can take.
Call me spoiled, but I remember the days when people use to see at the hottest clubs,
the expensive restaurants,
all the high-priced stores. I made sure I looked good with money.
I treated you right! I never abused you...did I?
Money, did I abuse you? Did I love you too much?
Did I get used to you hanging around
and now you're giving me a taste of what it feels like to live without you?
People still think we're tight!
They still ask about you.
I don't like them all in my business, so I just reply, money and I,
aren't as close as we used to be.
My money's been acting funny, lately.
I can't even call out her name when I'm playing ball.
I saw her the other day in Beverly Hills. She didn't even acknowledge me.
She looked at me like "...what are you doing in Beverly Hills?
Ever since money hasn't been around, I feel like I'm losing my other friends, too!
American Express, Visa, Discover, now they starting to act shady.
I think she's spreading lies on me!
I tell you, I don't know what I did, but my money's been acting real funny, lately.
And I don't know her anymore and my life ain't same.
Never will be the same, until money comes back into my life.
So, if you see her, or any of her family,
she has a whole bunch of cousins running around,
let her know that I miss her,
I love her,
and I want her to come home.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Music Therapy with Miss Moon
So my earlier choice for this week's Music Therapy with Miss Moon wasn't one I would choose for that particular posting.. It was more of a DOPE item, and rather than correct it, I decided to post a new song, one I heard today and was inspired to blog about.
I first heard this song on the television show "Girlfriends". While I am not the biggest gospel fan in the world, I found this song beautiful and it resonated deeply for me. The religious aspect aside (saint/sinner, etc.), the message of the song is very true: we can get up again after falling, after making mistakes. If God/Goddess/All that Is can forgive us with no condemnation, why can't we forgive ourselves?
I find that no one in the world is harder on us than we are on ourselves. This is something I am working on and will probably continue to work on for the rest of my life. And this song always serves as a reminder that it is not too late to pick myself up, dust myself, and (forgiving myself) start all over again. Enjoy!
Donnie McClurkin "We Fall Down"
I first heard this song on the television show "Girlfriends". While I am not the biggest gospel fan in the world, I found this song beautiful and it resonated deeply for me. The religious aspect aside (saint/sinner, etc.), the message of the song is very true: we can get up again after falling, after making mistakes. If God/Goddess/All that Is can forgive us with no condemnation, why can't we forgive ourselves?
I find that no one in the world is harder on us than we are on ourselves. This is something I am working on and will probably continue to work on for the rest of my life. And this song always serves as a reminder that it is not too late to pick myself up, dust myself, and (forgiving myself) start all over again. Enjoy!
Donnie McClurkin "We Fall Down"
Monday, February 8, 2010
Music Therapy with Miss Moon
This song has been on my mind for the past few hours, so I figured that although its not the perfect "Music Therapy" song... But it's still dope as hell - because Neneh was telling a certain somebody (Not saying any names... but his name rhymes with Smenny Smavitz! lol) about himself and how he wasn't doing right! Gotta love sisterhood like that!
Neneh Cherry "Buddy X"
Neneh Cherry "Buddy X"
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Be Blessed: In the Attitude of Gratitude
" Wake at dawn with a winged heart and give thanks for another day of loving."
- Kahlil Gibran
" There is as much greatness of mind in acknowledging a good turn, as in doing it."
- Seneca
Finding something to be grateful for each and everyday is not difficult at all. In fact, it's probably as easy as breathing out and breathing in... because we can be grateful for THAT! LOL
I live in Brooklyn. New York City, Baby! Home of the Yankees, Junior's Cheesecake and "Right here, putz!"... Don't quote me on this, but I actually believe giving the finger might've been PERFECTED here!
What can I possibly be grateful for walking around a city full of selfish, inconsiderate, rude, loud, ignorant, messy, belligerent assholes? Simple - I am grateful I am not one! LOL
This week - reflect on every single person you encounter... and recognize that, good or bad, they have given you something to express gratitude for. That dude who didn't hold the elevator door for you? That's a lesson to not let your hurried nature prevent you from considering others. That old couple you see walking down the street holding hands? You've been blessed with a reminder that love endures.
That is how I consider everything in my life, a lesson and/or a blessing.Think of your encounters and express gratitude for the lessons and blessings they have given you, major or small!
- Kahlil Gibran
" There is as much greatness of mind in acknowledging a good turn, as in doing it."
- Seneca
Finding something to be grateful for each and everyday is not difficult at all. In fact, it's probably as easy as breathing out and breathing in... because we can be grateful for THAT! LOL
I live in Brooklyn. New York City, Baby! Home of the Yankees, Junior's Cheesecake and "Right here, putz!"... Don't quote me on this, but I actually believe giving the finger might've been PERFECTED here!
What can I possibly be grateful for walking around a city full of selfish, inconsiderate, rude, loud, ignorant, messy, belligerent assholes? Simple - I am grateful I am not one! LOL
This week - reflect on every single person you encounter... and recognize that, good or bad, they have given you something to express gratitude for. That dude who didn't hold the elevator door for you? That's a lesson to not let your hurried nature prevent you from considering others. That old couple you see walking down the street holding hands? You've been blessed with a reminder that love endures.
That is how I consider everything in my life, a lesson and/or a blessing.Think of your encounters and express gratitude for the lessons and blessings they have given you, major or small!
A Little [MARY J BLIGE] for a Saturday Night
Even though it's Sunday.... God, I remember when "What's the 411?" first came out. My girl Natasha hipped me to Mary J. Blige, playing "You Remind Me"... I actually think she got me the album. I played it on my little cd boombox to DEATH!!! This song instantly evokes Saturday nights spent laying on my bed, reading magazines, day dreaming and singing along with Miss Mary J. Blige.
I am going to dedicate this edition of "for a Saturday Night" to Natasha, with a very special "Happy Birthday" love shout!!!
Mary J. Blige "Love No Limit"
I am going to dedicate this edition of "for a Saturday Night" to Natasha, with a very special "Happy Birthday" love shout!!!
Mary J. Blige "Love No Limit"
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Wedding Stuff: This Couple is My Inspiration
I really enjoy watching those Bridal Reality Shows ("Bridezillas", "Platinum Weddings", etc.) primarily because they can truly serve as an example of what NOT to do. And I am not talking about the hideously tacky dresses and wedding decor (Although...). Primarily I see what happens when people spend money they don't have on a wedding. Or in the case of Platinum Weddings what happens when they spend money they have that could REALLY go to something more useful to themselves (or the world)...
I want to have a beautiful wedding, but I am not willing to over extend myself, my honey or our families in order to have one that's ridiculously extravagant. Especially when there are so many people struggling to make ends meet (myself included).
I am grateful for couples like the one in this article (From the NY Daily News)- because I think that weddings are a celebration of the love between a couple and and the joining of families. Unless you are royalty, there needn't be all the glitz and hoopla....and more importantly, there needn't be stress and debt.
The $4,722 wedding: One Brooklyn bride proves it can be done
BY Tracy E. Hopkins
Sunday, September 21st 2008, 8:34 PM
I've never been a girly girl with visions of a princess gown and grand ballroom reception dancing in my head. So when it came to my wedding, I wanted a day that reflected my husband's and my classic and eclectic tastes, and our love of family, friends and good food in an intimate, nongeneric setting. Most importantly, we didn't want to spend a fortune.
According to The Knot, a leading wedding resource, the average cost of an American wedding is $28,000 - and $46,000 for a New York City love fest. Yet, John and I spent just under $5,000 for our 70-guest Brooklyn affair - a total that included my dress, our rings, the ceremony site, reception venue and food, flowers, photographer, violinist and wedding officiant. Sounds impossible, right? By channeling my Jedi-like knack for finding a bargain and bucking the bridal industry trend to overspend into debt, however, we orchestrated a budget wedding that looked like a million bucks (or at least $28,000).
HERE COMES THE BUDGET BRIDE
Out of curiosity, I went to the Filene's Basement's chaotic "Running of the Brides" sale, but none of the countless dresses tempted me to part with $250. It was a deal for some, but more than I wanted to spend. So I did the next best thing - I checked eBay. And there it was, a simple yet elegant, sleeveless, satiny, ivory sheath with only one bidder and 40 minutes left on the auction. I won the dress for $27. The seller said she'd purchased it from Saks' Off 5th outlet but didn't lose weight in time for her wedding. Fortunately, her diet disaster was my happy ending.
DO IT YOURSELF
We saved hundreds of dollars by printing our own invitations, a silver-and-flower embossed design from Party City ($30); recruiting friends to shoot video footage of the ceremony and reception, and having a photographer friend snap the wedding shots ($200). Flowers are also a huge expense - with bouquets priced at $100 and up - so my matron of honor fashioned my long-stem, white rose bouquet and the groom's boutonniere from a supermarket dozen. Another friend's aunt crafted the requisite Jordan almond favors, using a 5-pound bag I purchased online ($40, www.nutsonline.com), homemade keepsake tags and leftover tulle.
AFTERNOON DELIGHT
A morning ceremony and early afternoon reception was a good fit for us. Between 9-10 a.m. on weekends, several sites at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden can be reserved for a private ceremony ($350 for up to 50 guests). Once we saw the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden, with its covered viewing pavilion, manicured shrubs, orange Shinto shrine, wood bridges and colorful koi fish, we were sold.
The reception was at Madiba, a South African restaurant in bohemian, brownstone-lined Fort Greene. We loved the restaurant's sunny vibe and funky details: an old-Coke bottle chandelier, a huge portrait of Nelson Mandela (Madiba is the leader's nickname) fused with the African continent, and Mason jar water glasses.
Because of the early time, Madiba's charming owner didn't charge a rental fee for the five-hour reception (regular dinner service resumed at 5). By having a restaurant reception, we also skipped catering charges for table linens, flatware and flowers. With the bar's front tables removed, there was even room for a "Soul Train" line to an iPod mix of disco, new wave and contemporary favorites.
After several tastings, we refined the $40 per person menu that included pumpkin fritter and vegetable samosa appetizers; a guava juice and Champagne cocktail; ravioli topped with John's homemade marinara sauce, and a choice of salmon or Cornish hen entrée with veggie side dishes. Instead of splurging on a wedding cake that would cost about $350, in addition to Madiba's Jenny's Malva Pudding (a traditional South African dessert served with caramel sauce and vanilla ice cream), we served a tiered assortment of red velvet, coconut and yellow cake cupcakes from One Girl Cookies in Cobble Hill ($184; onegirlcookies.com) topped with a mini-lemon and raspberry cake we happily devoured a week later.
I want to have a beautiful wedding, but I am not willing to over extend myself, my honey or our families in order to have one that's ridiculously extravagant. Especially when there are so many people struggling to make ends meet (myself included).
I am grateful for couples like the one in this article (From the NY Daily News)- because I think that weddings are a celebration of the love between a couple and and the joining of families. Unless you are royalty, there needn't be all the glitz and hoopla....and more importantly, there needn't be stress and debt.
The $4,722 wedding: One Brooklyn bride proves it can be done
BY Tracy E. Hopkins
Sunday, September 21st 2008, 8:34 PM
I've never been a girly girl with visions of a princess gown and grand ballroom reception dancing in my head. So when it came to my wedding, I wanted a day that reflected my husband's and my classic and eclectic tastes, and our love of family, friends and good food in an intimate, nongeneric setting. Most importantly, we didn't want to spend a fortune.
According to The Knot, a leading wedding resource, the average cost of an American wedding is $28,000 - and $46,000 for a New York City love fest. Yet, John and I spent just under $5,000 for our 70-guest Brooklyn affair - a total that included my dress, our rings, the ceremony site, reception venue and food, flowers, photographer, violinist and wedding officiant. Sounds impossible, right? By channeling my Jedi-like knack for finding a bargain and bucking the bridal industry trend to overspend into debt, however, we orchestrated a budget wedding that looked like a million bucks (or at least $28,000).
HERE COMES THE BUDGET BRIDE
Out of curiosity, I went to the Filene's Basement's chaotic "Running of the Brides" sale, but none of the countless dresses tempted me to part with $250. It was a deal for some, but more than I wanted to spend. So I did the next best thing - I checked eBay. And there it was, a simple yet elegant, sleeveless, satiny, ivory sheath with only one bidder and 40 minutes left on the auction. I won the dress for $27. The seller said she'd purchased it from Saks' Off 5th outlet but didn't lose weight in time for her wedding. Fortunately, her diet disaster was my happy ending.
DO IT YOURSELF
We saved hundreds of dollars by printing our own invitations, a silver-and-flower embossed design from Party City ($30); recruiting friends to shoot video footage of the ceremony and reception, and having a photographer friend snap the wedding shots ($200). Flowers are also a huge expense - with bouquets priced at $100 and up - so my matron of honor fashioned my long-stem, white rose bouquet and the groom's boutonniere from a supermarket dozen. Another friend's aunt crafted the requisite Jordan almond favors, using a 5-pound bag I purchased online ($40, www.nutsonline.com), homemade keepsake tags and leftover tulle.
AFTERNOON DELIGHT
A morning ceremony and early afternoon reception was a good fit for us. Between 9-10 a.m. on weekends, several sites at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden can be reserved for a private ceremony ($350 for up to 50 guests). Once we saw the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden, with its covered viewing pavilion, manicured shrubs, orange Shinto shrine, wood bridges and colorful koi fish, we were sold.
The reception was at Madiba, a South African restaurant in bohemian, brownstone-lined Fort Greene. We loved the restaurant's sunny vibe and funky details: an old-Coke bottle chandelier, a huge portrait of Nelson Mandela (Madiba is the leader's nickname) fused with the African continent, and Mason jar water glasses.
Because of the early time, Madiba's charming owner didn't charge a rental fee for the five-hour reception (regular dinner service resumed at 5). By having a restaurant reception, we also skipped catering charges for table linens, flatware and flowers. With the bar's front tables removed, there was even room for a "Soul Train" line to an iPod mix of disco, new wave and contemporary favorites.
After several tastings, we refined the $40 per person menu that included pumpkin fritter and vegetable samosa appetizers; a guava juice and Champagne cocktail; ravioli topped with John's homemade marinara sauce, and a choice of salmon or Cornish hen entrée with veggie side dishes. Instead of splurging on a wedding cake that would cost about $350, in addition to Madiba's Jenny's Malva Pudding (a traditional South African dessert served with caramel sauce and vanilla ice cream), we served a tiered assortment of red velvet, coconut and yellow cake cupcakes from One Girl Cookies in Cobble Hill ($184; onegirlcookies.com) topped with a mini-lemon and raspberry cake we happily devoured a week later.
Friday, February 5, 2010
Miss Moons' Musing About: My Top 5 Bollywood Movies (In case you're curious...)
Since I mentioned doing this in my last blog entry, I thought I would blog about it to share some amazing movies with you all.
The synopsis for each movie is courtesy of Netflix, where I rent all of my movies from!!! I realized that while I love "Devdas".. it's not my #1....keep reading to see who knocked it out of the slot!
5: Ishq:
I usually prefer the period stories, with flowing, colorful saris and rolling hills, but this story is amazing. It is such an amazing mind f**k since the first half of the movie will have you rolling with laughter, and the second half will have you hysterically crying!!! LOL
I have to admit, I rented this movie first because I thought that Amir Khan was a hottie. But the story was lovely and very romantic. You will need some tissues for this one as well. But most Bollywood movies make you cry at some point... I won't front!!! LOL
In this Bollywood blockbuster, Devdas and Paro have a supreme love that began in childhood when they were kindred spirits. But their love is star-crossed. In a moment of weakness, Devdas breaks the bond of trust between them, and Paro, heartbroken, marries another man. Unable to face life alone without Paro, Devdas finds solace in the bottle … but it's cold comfort. For Devdas, only death can be the final release from his enduring pain.
What can I say about this movie? Did you ever have a craving for delicious plate of chocolate chip cookies, or whatever snack you consider 'comfort food'? I crave this movie the same exact way.
1: Taal:
During his travels, Manav (Akshaye Khanna), a wealthy businessman, falls for Mansi (Aishwarya Rai), a small-town singer and dancer, but then finds he must return to the city. In Manav's absence, Mansi becomes a big star under the guidance of Vikrant (Anil Kapoor), a successful composer. A colorful love triangle filled with music and dancing.
This is one of my all-time favorite movies. It's romantic, sweet, charming. Aishwarya Rai, Akshaye Khanna (grrowwwr!!!!!!), yoga, MTV, Coca Cola... I'm there!!!!
The synopsis for each movie is courtesy of Netflix, where I rent all of my movies from!!! I realized that while I love "Devdas".. it's not my #1....keep reading to see who knocked it out of the slot!
5: Ishq:
Kajol (Kajol) and Ajay (Ajay Devgan) are very much in love. But since Kajol is a middle-class girl and Ajay is a rich boy, Ajay's uncle is determined to break them up. He uses Kajol's platonic friendship with a middle-class boy named Raja (Amir Khan) to convince Ajay that she's unfaithful. But if Ajay is to find happiness, he must resist his uncle's manipulations. Indra Kumar directs this romantic comedy with music by Anu Malik.
I usually prefer the period stories, with flowing, colorful saris and rolling hills, but this story is amazing. It is such an amazing mind f**k since the first half of the movie will have you rolling with laughter, and the second half will have you hysterically crying!!! LOL
Karan knows how to woo well-off women and keep his emotional distance. Despite his betrothal to a billionaire's daughter, he searches a ship for new conquests, surprising himself when he falls for Priya, a poor beauty engaged to a rich man. They test their strong affections by opting to meet 6 months after the boat trip. Will the lure of wealth or their love win out? Song, dance and romance dominate this Bollywood popcorn-muncher.
I have to admit, I rented this movie first because I thought that Amir Khan was a hottie. But the story was lovely and very romantic. You will need some tissues for this one as well. But most Bollywood movies make you cry at some point... I won't front!!! LOL
Lush costume drama set in Muslim 19th century northern India chronicles legendary real-life courtesan Umrao Jaan and the men who sought her company. Rekha's memorable role is helped by Asha Bhosle's excellent ghazal-songs.
I haven't had the chance to rent the newer version (with Aishwarya Rai) yet, but I have it on my Netflix queue. This movie is just lush, romantic and awesome!!!!!
In this Bollywood blockbuster, Devdas and Paro have a supreme love that began in childhood when they were kindred spirits. But their love is star-crossed. In a moment of weakness, Devdas breaks the bond of trust between them, and Paro, heartbroken, marries another man. Unable to face life alone without Paro, Devdas finds solace in the bottle … but it's cold comfort. For Devdas, only death can be the final release from his enduring pain.
What can I say about this movie? Did you ever have a craving for delicious plate of chocolate chip cookies, or whatever snack you consider 'comfort food'? I crave this movie the same exact way.
1: Taal:
During his travels, Manav (Akshaye Khanna), a wealthy businessman, falls for Mansi (Aishwarya Rai), a small-town singer and dancer, but then finds he must return to the city. In Manav's absence, Mansi becomes a big star under the guidance of Vikrant (Anil Kapoor), a successful composer. A colorful love triangle filled with music and dancing.
This is one of my all-time favorite movies. It's romantic, sweet, charming. Aishwarya Rai, Akshaye Khanna (grrowwwr!!!!!!), yoga, MTV, Coca Cola... I'm there!!!!
Thursday, February 4, 2010
DOPE: "In aankhon ki masti ke" From "Umrao Jaan"
"Umrao Jaan is one of my favorite Bollywood movies.... it's not my number one (Devdas), but it's definitely in my top five of all time (Hmmm... I might have to blog about that one day!)..
"In aankhon ki masti ke" ("The lust of these eyes") is probably the most flossing-ist song I've ever heard in this type of film.... it's kind of like a Bollywood version of "So Fresh, So Clean"... LOL I am including the lyrics (with translation) below, so you will see what I mean. Enjoy!
In Aankhon Ki Masti
Lyrics Courtesy of HindiLyrics.net
In aankhon ki masti ke, aah aah aah aah
The lust of these eyes
In aankhon ki masti ke mastaane hazaaron hain
There are thousands intoxicated by the lust of these eyes
Mastaane hazaaron hain
There are thousands intoxicated
In aankhon se vaabasta
Attached to these eyes
In aankhon se vaabasta afsaane hazaaron hain
There are thousands of legends attached to these eyes
Afsaane hazaaron hain
There are thousands of legends
In aankhon ki masti ke
The lust of these eyes
Ek tum hi nahin tanha, aah aah
You are not the only one alone
Ek tum hi nahin tanha ulfat mein meri rusva
You are not alone in love with me, disgraced
Ulfat mein meri rusva
In love with me, disgraced
Is shaher mein tum jaise
In this city, like you
Is shaher mein tum jaise deewaane hazaaron hain
In this city, there are thousands of madmen like you
Deewaane hazaaron hain
There are thousands of madmen
In aankhon ki masti ke mastaane hazaaron hain
There are thousands intoxicated by the lust of these eyes
In aankhon ki masti ke, aah aah aah
The lust of these eyes
Ek sirf humi mai ko, ek sirf humi
Only I, only I
Ek sirf humi mai ko aankhon se pilaate hain
Only I serve liquor with my eyes
Aankhon se pilaate hain
Serve with my eyes
Kehne ko to duniya mein
To say it, in the world
Kehne ko to duniya mein maikhaane hazaaron hain
To say it, in the world there are thousands of bars
Maikhaane hazaaron hain
There are thousands of bars
In aankhon ki masti ke mastaane hazaaron hain
There are thousands intoxicated by the lust of these eyes
In aankhon ki masti ke
The lust of these eyes
Is shamm-e-faroza ko, aah aah
This luminous candle
Is shamm-e-faroza ko aandhi se darraate ho
You are making this luminous candle scared of a hurricane
Aandhi se darraate ho
Scared of a hurricane
Is shamm-e-faroza ke
Of this luminous candle
Is shamm-e-faroza ke parvaane hazaaron hain
There are thousands of lovers of this luminous candle
Parvaane hazaaron hain
There are thousands of lovers
In aankhon ki masti ke mastaane hazaaron hain
There are thousands intoxicated by the lust of these eyes
In aankhon se vaabasta afsaane hazaaron hain
There are thousands of legends attached to these eyes
Afsaane hazaaron hain
There are thousands of legends
In aankhon ki masti ke
The lust of these eyes
"In aankhon ki masti ke" ("The lust of these eyes") is probably the most flossing-ist song I've ever heard in this type of film.... it's kind of like a Bollywood version of "So Fresh, So Clean"... LOL I am including the lyrics (with translation) below, so you will see what I mean. Enjoy!
In Aankhon Ki Masti
Lyrics Courtesy of HindiLyrics.net
In aankhon ki masti ke, aah aah aah aah
The lust of these eyes
In aankhon ki masti ke mastaane hazaaron hain
There are thousands intoxicated by the lust of these eyes
Mastaane hazaaron hain
There are thousands intoxicated
In aankhon se vaabasta
Attached to these eyes
In aankhon se vaabasta afsaane hazaaron hain
There are thousands of legends attached to these eyes
Afsaane hazaaron hain
There are thousands of legends
In aankhon ki masti ke
The lust of these eyes
Ek tum hi nahin tanha, aah aah
You are not the only one alone
Ek tum hi nahin tanha ulfat mein meri rusva
You are not alone in love with me, disgraced
Ulfat mein meri rusva
In love with me, disgraced
Is shaher mein tum jaise
In this city, like you
Is shaher mein tum jaise deewaane hazaaron hain
In this city, there are thousands of madmen like you
Deewaane hazaaron hain
There are thousands of madmen
In aankhon ki masti ke mastaane hazaaron hain
There are thousands intoxicated by the lust of these eyes
In aankhon ki masti ke, aah aah aah
The lust of these eyes
Ek sirf humi mai ko, ek sirf humi
Only I, only I
Ek sirf humi mai ko aankhon se pilaate hain
Only I serve liquor with my eyes
Aankhon se pilaate hain
Serve with my eyes
Kehne ko to duniya mein
To say it, in the world
Kehne ko to duniya mein maikhaane hazaaron hain
To say it, in the world there are thousands of bars
Maikhaane hazaaron hain
There are thousands of bars
In aankhon ki masti ke mastaane hazaaron hain
There are thousands intoxicated by the lust of these eyes
In aankhon ki masti ke
The lust of these eyes
Is shamm-e-faroza ko, aah aah
This luminous candle
Is shamm-e-faroza ko aandhi se darraate ho
You are making this luminous candle scared of a hurricane
Aandhi se darraate ho
Scared of a hurricane
Is shamm-e-faroza ke
Of this luminous candle
Is shamm-e-faroza ke parvaane hazaaron hain
There are thousands of lovers of this luminous candle
Parvaane hazaaron hain
There are thousands of lovers
In aankhon ki masti ke mastaane hazaaron hain
There are thousands intoxicated by the lust of these eyes
In aankhon se vaabasta afsaane hazaaron hain
There are thousands of legends attached to these eyes
Afsaane hazaaron hain
There are thousands of legends
In aankhon ki masti ke
The lust of these eyes
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