Miss Moon's Musings

Music Therapy with Miss Moon

2012-01-30T14:05:00.039-05:00

“Hope is important because it can make the present moment less difficult to bear. If we believe that tomorrow will be better, we can bear a hardship today.”
~ Thich Nhat Hanh

Solange may be cuckoo for T.O.N.Y, but for me, it's all about tomorrow. Why? Because today sucks sometimes. Not always, but lately, it seems to have reached its peak in suckiness. And rather than get back in bed and pull the covers over my head, I can muddle through with the belief that tomorrow will be better. And this week's Music Therapy song choice shares that same sentiment. This is a song that I was obsessed with as a child.

I had children's books of classic Disney movies that came with cassette tapes to accompany them and I played "The Rescuers" over and over again, just because of this song. Even as a little bitty, it filled me with tremendous peace and optimism. Having recently rediscovered the song as an adult a few weeks ago, I am overjoyed to have discovered the magic of the tune remains. I hope that "Tomorrow Is Another Day" (vocals by Shelby Flint) will give you the same joy.

http://youtu.be/lvoDOHhgaGY

Come along..
Will there be sun shine shining?
Will we find a silver lining?
Come along..
Sing a song.

When today becomes tomorrow,
Will we find joy or sorrow?
Sing a song.

Is it wrong..
To put all our hopes together?
To wish for something better?
Is it wrong...
To belong?

To face the future with another,
Who means more than any other,
Is to belong.

We'll paint the grey clouds with pretty rainbow hues,
And we'll brush the gloom away,
And save it for a rainy day,
Rainy day..

Oh today...
When troubles cast a shadow,
And shadows make the sun afraid to stay,
It's ok,

'Cause there'll be sunshine shining
And we'll find a silver lining,
Another day.

Tomorrow is another day, how i hope you'll always stay.

A Little [BETTY DAVIS] for a Saturday Night

2012-01-28T18:22:00.015-05:00

Happy Saturday, Everybody!!! I hope that this weekend has been off to a good start for you all. For me, it's been a blast so far!

For this Saturday Night, I decided to share another favorite song of mine by Betty Davis. I say this all the time, but if you have never heard of her before, seriously... get her music, it's dope as hell!! This song is also one of the most simple, romantic and soulful songs I've ever heard.

Let's Talk Tresses Friday: What Products are ALL HYPE?!?

2012-01-27T14:56:00.010-05:00

The internet is a wonderful place for people with natural hair to discover and learn about new products and techniques that will give you all the results you want for your hair and more!!

I don't want to even THINK about the money I've shelled over for stuff that after repeated use did absolutely nothing for me... and ended up cluttering up my bathroom for months.

What products have you used in the past that just did not work for you, despite the hype! Dish, dish!

:::drools::: Rachel Roy-style for Plus Size Fashionistas

2012-01-25T16:45:00.038-05:00

Designer Rachel Roy definitely has a signature style that people love to talk about. You either love the way she puts together her outfits or you hate them... but we're talking about it all the same.

I happen to love Rachel's style, and when looking for inspiration, I always find a style choice that I know that I could replicate and rock just as well as she does. Take my recent pick. Rachel is attending The Cinema Society and Nancy Gonzalez screening of "Meek's Cutoff" at Landmark Sunshine Cinema in NYC earlier last Spring.

Maybe you are like me... When I spot a celebrity at an event during the winter and they are dressed like they're in Hawaii or something... I always have to shake my head and say, "I KNOW they are cold!!" Rachel proves you can be stylish without the risk of pneumonia! Here's how I recreated her Winter Wonderful style for Plus Size Fashionistas:

Coat: Ulla Popken Fleece Shawl Collar Jacket ($39.00, One Stop Plus)
Top: Striped French-Terry Tops ($24.94, Old Navy)
Jeans: Red L-Pocket Jeans ($39.99, Jessica London)
Scarf: Soft Tencel Scarf ($55, US Trendy)
Shoes: Fergie 'Protest' Pump ($69.95, Nordstrom)
Bag: Johson Satchel ($24.49, Aldo Shoes)

Complete your look with a smoky eye and a matte red lipstick and you are ready to hit the town!

Music Therapy with Miss Moon

2012-01-23T12:13:00.020-05:00

“The size of your success is measured by the strength of your desire; the size of your dream; and how you handle disappointment along the way.”
~ Robert Kiyosaki

I have to be real with you. I thought that I would have found a new job by now, and that my plans for this year would be off and running. Sadly, that is not the case. It's been almost a month and so far I've had only a single job interview, which went well, but it was determined I was way overqualified for the position and the company wasn't willing to accept my salary demands.

Each morning, I wake up and I start job searching knowing that someone somewhere in this city will read my words and want to meet me in order to see if I would be a match for their position. And each day I stare at my empty inbox wondering where are the responses to my resume.

It's enough to almost make me want to retreat and give up. But I remember that I do have plans I have promised myself to bring to fruition for my life, and giving up now would prove to be a bigger setback than applying with no favorable responses. So each day I will search and apply for jobs, and hope that very soon the day will change for me. Here's a song that best summarizes my feelings from the very awesome Alana Davis. I hope you all will enjoy "Weight of the World", with the request that you send some good luck, good mojo, and receptive energy my way!

Each day I say, "Today won't be like yesterday"
But it stays this way, today and every day
I pray that today will feel a different way
But it stays this way

The weight of the world has fallen
And the rubble is at my feet
The voice of a girl is callin'
I can hear but she's buried so deep

All my truths are broken
Their fragments of love and hate
The words that remain are a token
Of honesty that came too late

Here in the midst of madness
Washed up by the tides of war
Tried to resist this sadness
But the pressure is hard to endure

Yet we begin again to play our games
And everyone's innocent, just victims of change

Wearing a mask of freedom
And hiding behind a smile
Playing the role of a leader
You're pretending for just a while

Everything seems an illusion
Echoing around my brain
Trapped in a vast seclusion
Where the images fall like rain

And we begin again to play our games
And everyone's innocent, just victims of change
Living in sin again with no one to blame
And everyone's innocent, just victims of change

Each day I say that, "Today won't be like yesterday"
But it stays this way today and every day
I pray that today will feel a different way
But it stays this way

Oh yeah oh yeah yeah yeah
Yeah yeah

A Little [PRINCE] for a Saturday Night

2012-01-21T18:16:00.014-05:00

It's another Saturday Night in cold NYC, and I thought that warrants a song selection guaranteed to raise the temperature. Who else could fulfill that demand like Prince?

My pick is his amazing rendition of Joni Mitchell's "Case of You". This song makes me daydream like mad, and I hope you all will listen and daydream with me. Enjoy!

Let's Talk Tresses Friday: Is Steam Part of Your #NaturalHair Routine?!?

2012-01-20T16:00:00.027-05:00

As I have mentioned earlier, I recently invested in a Hair Steamer. I've used it twice since receiving it, and...to quote Peter Gabriel, "Give me steam...". LOL

Ohmigod, why has it taken me so long to get one and discover first hand how WONDERFUL steaming is for my hair?!?! Since using the steamer to deep condition, my hair has been thriving incredibly in these cold months in NYC when my hair is sometimes prone to be super dry and brittle! I'm hooked!

Do you use a steamer in your hair regimen? How do you use your steamer? Leave a comment with your tips and experiences!!!

Cinema Couture: Music and Lyrics (2007)

2012-01-19T15:11:00.077-05:00

I love Drew Barrymore's style and have featured her fashion in the past. When wanting to do an outfit recreation post for this week, I got the much needed inspiration in "Music and Lyrics" playing on cable.

The movie is funny as hell and how much do I love Drew's wardrobe in the film!!! It's very New York and it suited her perfectly in her role as Sophie Fisher!!

Drew, when are you going to come out with your own scarf collection and hook us all up?!?!

My favorite outfit from the entire movie is from the film's climax, is unfortunately I could not locate a decent photo anywhere. I decided to choose my second runner up for favorite outfit of the film, which is a pretty fly look!

So cute!!! Here's how I recreated the look:

Jacket: Women's Plus Canvas Military Jackets ($29.97, Old Navy)
Dress: Printed Midi Dress ($45.00, Simply Be)
Boots: Lulu Cognac Knee-High Boot ($48.50, Torrid)
Scarf: Ecote Abstract Open Weave Eternity Scarf ($29.00, Urban Outfitters)
Earrings: Made Brass Hoop Earrings ($17.91, Asos)

Now the earrings I selected from Asos are CRAZY on sale right now, and I can confirm that they are gorgeous in person!! I knew immediately when recreating the look I would select them.

I didn't include the sunnies or the handbag to my outfit, but if you really want to complete Drew's look, these shades from Forever 21, along with this bag from Lulu's would be the perfect place to start!

DO SOMETHING: Stop Internet Censorship!

2012-01-17T23:03:00.000-05:00

In support of the countless websites and blogs protesting SOPA, tomorrow (Jan. 18th) Miss Moon's Musings will be silent.

For more info on SOPA and the fight against internet censorship, please feel free to visit Stop American Censorship and http://sopastrike.com/.

If you have a blog or a website, please consider putting this on your blog/site and joining the protest tomorrow from 8:00 a.m. EST to 8:00 p.m. EST.

I Wanna Go Shopping With...Julia Sarr-Jamois

2012-01-17T13:57:00.001-05:00

I've been a fan of Julia Sarr-Jamois' style before I even learned her name. The fashion editor for Wonderland magazine is always making a stylish statement even when dressed casually, and can we please talk about her too dayum perfect afro?!?!

Why isn't this dress in my closet? I really really needs to be there!

Those shoes + those sunnies = fabulousness!!!

I swear if anyone else was wearing this, I would say "Who skinned the muppet?", but it looks AMAZING on her! I wish I could peep the rest of this outfit!

I love this skirt with a passion!!!

Y'all know I'm all about the cute and comfy!! This look embodies that!

Oh my stars! I love this outfit to pieces... I need a red moto jacket and a blue blouse to wear under it, stat!!

Then again, maybe I really need to get a BLACK moto! LOL

This is hands down my favorite look of the bunch... it's so something I would rock!!!!

Julia needs to stop borrowing my shades and bring them back to me!! LOL

Pretty in pink!!!

Music Therapy with Miss Moon

2012-01-16T13:11:00.043-05:00

"Only through our connectedness to others can we really know and enhance the self. And only through working on the self can we begin to enhance our connectedness to others."
~ Harriet Goldhor Lerner

In a world where people are so vastly different from each other, it can be difficult to acknowledge what connects us sometimes... our lives. We all strive to grow and prosper, and we all make up the world we live in.

I think about myself and.... one of the Basketball Wives, for instance. I cannot fathom having ANYTHING in common with those chicks, aside from our genders and races. And I shake my head constantly when I happen to catch commercials for the show on television.

I'm sure there are countless other people in the celebrity world, or even in our everyday lives that you feel the same way about. They seem so far removed from who you are and what you're all about... but I bet if you looked beyond the surface, there would be a common ground revealed.

Ultimately its in finding that common ground that results in empathy and compassion for one another. Imagine how beautiful this world would be with those characteristics being the predominant one in all of us? It's a world I definitely want to live in.

This week's Music Therapy with Miss Moon is a song about our connections. I hope you all will let it inspire you to join me in envisioning a life without apathy. Here's 1 Giant Leap with Speech (of Arrested Development), Neneh Cherry and Ulali in "Braided Hair".

Yo we was talking earlier and I was telling you talking bout life
I feel like life is like braided hair
Its sorta like twist you know
Bout braided hair like twist
You know three strands twist together
Ultimately you get to where you wanna get to

From the same dirt from the heels of my ancestors
The naked roads and the fields where the pain festered
And I wonder where the hold came from
In the deeps of my heart make me yearn for the drum
It's the same place where the cross is burned
The same place where the loss was earned
It's the place where the floss was yearned
Gold teeth and bling ice on the ring baby sure

Chorus: We've all got things that are hanging about
Things that make us cool,
Things that make us whack,
Things that make us mad
Things we wish we never had done
But they're just the things that make us real
Not the maps to guide where we go from here
The road twists and braids our hair
Until we all get there

I like that I don't know some mysteries
Ancient things and beginnings
Excited about the day when I don't have to hear all the theories
My scalp needs some grease
It's the same place where the crosses burned
The same place where the loss was earned
The only way we all can learn
Is if we have these braids with the twist and turns so

Walking in the race of life
Looking for my own pace
Not always wanting to but I have to
Sometimes feeling like I've bitten off much more than I could chew
But the wind goes though my hair
Lifts me up with ease not a crease
Hair full of grease no weave embracing me
It's you I see
I am you and you are me I see yeah
I am you and you are me I see

We might survive as brothers yeah or perish here as fools
Go place your bets
Don't bet too soon
You might find me in another
Feels like someone you once knew
You know that face yeah we all do
Braided hair (what's it all for?)

A Little [QUADRON] for a Saturday Night

2012-01-14T19:32:00.011-05:00

Happy Saturday,everybody!! I hope that your weekend has been a great one so far. Here is NYC it is COOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOLD. Tonight is not a night that I want to go outside and hang, so I am curled up under the covers listening to some good music.

I discovered this unplugged but awesome remake of Lauryn Hill's classic from Quadron several weeks ago, but in listening to it again I was inspired to share it. I hope that its a welcomed enjoyment for your Saturday night.

Let's Talk Tresses Friday: Fess Up... What Hair Myths Do YOU Believe?!?

2012-01-13T17:53:00.020-05:00

Today's Friday the Thirteenth, so I figured it would be the best day to talk about Hair Myths and Superstitions...

Frequent trims make hair grow faster.... "Lather, rinse, and repeat" is the only way to get your hair clean... Cutting your hair during a full moon makes it grow back faster... You can mend split ends with the right products...

There are dozens or so such myths out there regarding our hair that many people (myself included) still belief, despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary.

I myself superstitiously cuts my hair according to the farmer's almanac... it may not work a lick, but it certainly hasn't harmed my hair in any way! LOL

What hair myths or superstitions to you believe!?!? Let Talk Tresses, Ladies!

Cinema, Cuisine and Cocktail : "Down With Love"

2012-01-12T16:51:00.064-05:00

It happens sometimes: you and your sister circle are all experiencing men troubles. Instead of wallowing, why not get together for a girls night in? And do I have the PERFECT movie and meal for you!!

An homage to the zany romantic comedies of the early 1960s starring Doris Day, Rock Hudson and Tony Randall, Down with Love is hilarious!!

From Wikipedia:

New in New York City, Barbara Novak arrives at Banner House to present her new work Down with Love, a book the intent of which is to free women from love, teach them to enjoy sex without commitment, and to replace the need for a man with things such as chocolate. Following her rules would, she believes, help to give women a boost in the workplace and in the world in general.

A night with the girls for a little sisterhood, laughs (not to mention oogling the very dreamy Ewan McGregor!!) only needs a perfect menu. In honor of the rules of the novel, I've come up with a chocolate-filled menu that is sure to make you forget about your men troubles!

The Menu:
Assorted Sliced Fruit
Chocolate-Hazelnut Panini
Chocolate Bread Pudding
Chocolate Peeptini

Chocolate-Hazelnut Panini

Recipe Courtesy of Country Living

Ingredients

1 loaf(s) Ciabatta 1/2 cup(s) Hazelnut Or Almond Butter
2 tablespoon(s) Honey
1/4 teaspoon(s) Salt
teaspoon(s) Ground Cloves
1 bar(s) (4-ounce) Bittersweet Chocolate
2 tablespoon(s) Butter, melted

Directions

Cut the ciabatta into 5- by 3-inch rectangles and split horizontally.
Stir the hazelnut butter, honey, salt, and cloves together and spread about 1 tablespoon onto each of 4 of the bread rectangles.
Layer with the chocolate and top with remaining bread. Brush with butter and grill in a press until the chocolate melts.
Cut into small triangles and sprinkle each with sea salt to serve.

Chocolate Bread Pudding

Recipe Courtesy of Martha Stewart

Ingredients

1 tablespoon butter, plus more for baking dish
8 slices (8 ounces) cinnamon-raisin bread
2 cups milk
3 ounces semisweet chocolate
2 large eggs
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon confectioners' sugar

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly butter an 11-by-7-inch (or 9-inch square) baking dish; set aside. Toast bread (in the oven or toaster) until lightly crisped.
In a medium saucepan, combine milk, chocolate, and butter; place over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until chocolate has melted, about 5 minutes.
Tear bread into large pieces (about 4 or 5 per slice); scatter evenly in prepared baking dish. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla. Whisk in warm milk mixture until combined. Pour over bread.
Bake until pudding has puffed and is firm, about 25 minutes. Cool at least 10 minutes, and dust with confectioners' sugar just before serving.

Chocolate Peeptini

Recipe Courtesy of Peep Drinks

Ingredients

2 oz vodka
1/2 oz creme de cacao
1 marshmallow peep
2 tbsp chocolate syrup

Directions

Dunk peep in Fox’s U-Bet brand chocolate syrup. Add ingredients to shaker filled with ice, then pour into martini glass. Add remaining chocolate syrup.

Optional: Before pouring drink into martini glass, wet the rim and invert the glass into a saucer dusted with hot chocolate mix or finely grated dark chocolate.

:::drools::: Natural Hair Tees That Are Sure to Please!!!

2012-01-10T13:54:00.000-05:00

If you're like me, than no doubt you love a good, comfy tee as much as I do. I like rocking tees with jeans and sneakers, which is my "go to" for weekend warrior mode. I also love pairing tees with a blazer, which is a grown up, but fun look with a skirt and boots or with trousers.

I get excited when I find a great natural hair tee shirt. It's always makes for a fly fashion statement. So I've searched the interwebs (ha!) for a few of my favorite choices that are available in assorted sizes.

1. Fly, Fierce, Feminine T-shirt (Sizes L-2X, CocoaCure.com)
2. Beautiful People Afro Sheen Shirt (Size M Only, 80stees.com)
3. Pink T-shirt (Sizes S-M, djt-shirts.com)
4. Yes Lioness Dreadlocks Print T-shirt (Size Unknown, naturalgirlsunited.com)
5. Harlem, Afro, Face--1 Color T-Shirts (Sizes S-XXL, spreadshirt.com)
6. Big Afro T-Shirt (Sizes XS-XXL, gology.bigcartel.com)
7. Afro Chic Pink T-Shirt Afro Lady (Size S-L, regionusa.com)
8. Shorty Afro Puffs T-shirt (XS-S only, Kickz.com)

Music Therapy with Miss Moon

2012-01-09T16:46:00.026-05:00

" Adversity has the effect of eliciting talents which, in prosperous circumstances, would have lain dormant."
~ Horace

I've recently encountered a set back, as I mentioned last week. It's unfortunate, but I refuse to let it break me, as it's not my first time facing adversity, nor will it be my last. My objective is to find the lesson and blessing in this setback, and this week's song choice for Music Therapy is (I think) the perfect soundtrack to doing just that.

I hope you all will enjoy "I'm 'A Be Alright" by Robin Thicke.

I had my dreams woken
Man I almost got some
I had my car stolen
Now my radios gone
I had this fine woman
I couldn't get none
It seems like the world is up against me
For something I've done

I still got my mind,
Still got my music baby
I'm a be alright
I'm a be alright

All of my bills are pilin' cause I spent what I owe
I wasn't invited to any parties, so I'm throwing my own
Can't get a job cause I ain't been lookin for one

I'm a be alright
I'm a keep on dancin
I'm a get the champagne all to myself
I'm a be alright
I'm a keep it movin
I'm a give this love all over the world
And on and on

Here she comes walkin,
She's fine as all hell
She's lookin at me for somethin
The sheeba can't tell
I'm on my mind
I sit at my radio all day baby
I'm a be alright

A Little [TEDDY PENDERGRASS] for a Saturday Night

2012-01-07T20:17:00.024-05:00

There isn't a bought of the blues strong enough to withstand the beautiful and awesome power of Teddy Pendergrass' voice. This week's for a Saturday Night song is one that I proudly admit is prominently featured in my "I Wish a Man Would Play This For Me" playlist!! LOL

If you're lucky enough to have someone to share your Saturday Night with, take a few moments to cuddle and slow dance a little to "You're My Latest, My Greatest Inspiration". If (like me), you're solo, you can listen and dance around your place anyway!!

Let's Talk Tresses Friday: How Do You Handle the Haters?!?!?

2012-01-06T15:59:00.020-05:00

When I recently viewed this video from NaturallyCandi I knew I had to share it today as this week's Natural Hair Discussion. I've been very fortunate in that I haven't encountered such a scenario in my life (knocks wood!), but it doesn't surprise me that people feel it apropos to speak so negatively to someone, just because they have natural hair. "You comb your hair with a comb?!?"... No, I comb it with a fish!!!! GTFOH!

If you were approached in the same manner, how would you have handled the situation? If you have encountered negativity regarding your hair in the past, how did you respond? Let's talk tresses, people!

:::drools::: Halle Berry-style for Plus Size Fashionistas

2012-01-03T13:32:00.033-05:00

I've always been a fan of Halle Berry's style choices. Though it can be argued that Halle would look gorgeous rocking even the infamous Swan dress made popular by Icelandic singer Bjork during the Oscars several years ago! LOL

I spotted this picture of Halle at an event recently, and I knew that this would be my first outfit remix of 2012.

I love how this outfit looks both casual and chic at the same time. She could very easily take the heels off and replace with a pair of flats for a quick errand before going out to smile for the cameras!!! Here's what I came up with:

Blazer: Z. Cavaricci Couture - Black White Pinstriped Jacket ($64.50, Torrid)
Top: Tiered Tank ($49.90, Eloquii)
Pants: Leather Jeggings ($119.99 - $139.99, Jessica London)
Pumps: Zigi Soho Studious Pump ($44.94, D.S.W.)

Complete this outfit with minimal jewelry... perhaps simple studs or hoop earrings and you're good to go! I would rock a red lip for a bit of extra Va Va Va Vooom!

Music Therapy with Miss Moon

2012-01-02T12:25:00.044-05:00

“Every new beginning comes from some other beginning's end.”
~ Seneca

Happy New Year, Everybody!!! The last week of 2011 was not the best and brightest for yours truly. To give you an example, check out my Twittascope from last Wednesday:

You're not overly thrilled with your plans for the future, but you're capable of balancing your fantasies with the reality of your current situation. Even if you're tempted to escape into your own illusions, you don't have to lose track of where you're standing now and where you want to go. Ironically, staying connected with the bigger picture will ultimately make navigation in the present moment easier to handle.

Little did I know I'd be losing my job that day, and facing the new year unemployed. Suffice to say, not being overly thrilled with my plans for the future was an understatement to how I felt that day. I felt like the biggest loser on the planet, and was very scared that this new setback would seriously hinder the plans I had begun to set in motion for my life.

I went home, cried a little (okay a lot!), had a good talk with my best friend Natasha, filed for unemployment, and submitted my resume to six companies looking for a new hiree. And it dawned on me... I was already on the road to starting over. And what better time to start over than the beginning of a whole new year?!? I have 365 to make use of the space the Universe has cleared out of my life... starting at that moment!

I went from feeling sad and defeated, to optimistic and very excited about the adventure I'm about to face. The start of a new year marks a new adventure for us all, ripe with opportunities, and I knew immediately what Music Therapy song choice I would pick as commencement on our journey that is the year 2012.... So I hope you all will enjoy Tracy Chapman's "New Beginning".

The whole world's broke and it ain't worth fixing
It's time to start all over, make a new beginning
There's too much pain, too much suffering
Let's resolve to start all over make a new beginning

Now don't get me wrong - I love life and living
But when you wake up and look around at everything that's going down -
All wrong
You see we need to change it now, this world with too few happy endings
We can resolve to start all over make a new beginning

Start all over
Start all over
Start all over
Start all over

The world is broken into fragments and pieces
That once were joined together in a unified whole
But now too many stand alone - There's too much separation
We can resolve to come together in the new beginning

Start all over
Start all over
Start all over
Start all over

We can break the cycle - We can break the chain
We can start all over - In the new beginning
We can learn, we can teach
We can share the myths the dream the prayer
The notion that we can do better
Change our lives and paths
Create a new world and

Start all over
Start all over
Start all over
Start all over

The whole world's broke and it ain't worth fixing
It's time to start all over, make a new beginning
There's too much fighting, too little understanding
It's time to stop and start all over
Make a new beginning

Start all over
Start all over
Start all over
Start all over

We need to make new symbols
Make new signs
Make a new language
With these we'll define the world

And start all over
Start all over
Start all over
Start all over ...

A Little [LAURYN HILL] for a Saturday Night

2011-12-31T18:34:00.006-05:00

I had to end the year with Lauryn. Wow, do you remember when The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill dropped?!?! Whooo!!! This album was and is STILL a beast!! It reached the Billboard Top 100 in 1999, and I couldn't think of a better song to usher in the new year.

I hope you all will enjoy "Doo Wop (That Thing)" by the super talented Lauryn Hill, and I will be seeing you in 2012 for some more great music!!!

Happy New Year, Everybody!!!

Let's Talk Tresses Friday: What are your #naturalhair Resolutions for 2012!?!?

2011-12-30T14:30:00.000-05:00

2012 is just days away... and now is the time where many are putting together their lists of new year's resolutions... changes they want to bring into the new year.

I am no different. I have a lot of aspirations for the year to come: places I want to be, opportunities I openly welcome, wisdom I'd like to bring into my life... and there are many resolutions I have when it comes to my natural hair -

*In 2012, I want to invest in a hair steamer. I don't have the room for the Huetiful Hair Steamer, so I will be getting a Stand up Hair Steamer instead, and incorporate steaming into my weekly deep conditioning routine(I can feel my hair drool in anticipation of combining Anita Grant's Rhassoul Deep Condish with a steamer!!!).

*In 2012, I will (finally!!) master twisting my hair. I never seem to get them right, so I will try once a month to twist my hair so that they will last at least a week, and rock a twist out afterwards!

*In 2012, I will put my hair in the hands of a professional at least once a season, for regular trims. I have not been to a hair salon in decades, and while I have gone a long way doing it alone, I know that with the help of a good natural hair stylist, I can go even further!!!

*In 2012, I will try a new twist to my yearly "braid-cations", and will be rocking a wig over my braided hair. It's a great way to protect my hair for weeks at a time. And fans of YouTube's Taren916 know exactly what wig I'm currently cyber-stalking! LOL

*In 2012, I will learn how to cornrow my hair. Like twists, my cornrows are always hit-or-miss, and I think that if I continually try them throughout the year, I will find consistency with them.

Are you making New Year's Resolutions when it comes to your hair?!?!? What are your resolutions?!?! Leave a comment and share!!

Miss Moon's Musing About: My "Just Joan" Christmas...

2011-12-29T16:28:00.000-05:00

My Christmas was very much inspired by the "Just Joan" episode of the television series "Girlfriends":

When Joan complains about the dating scene and her social life, Maya challenges her to empower herself, accept her singleness and go out to a trendy restaurant alone.

I decided that being newly single during the holidays did NOT have to be something to feel sorry for myself about! What better gift to give myself on Christmas than the gift of empowerment?!?!? So I got myself all dolled up and headed out on Christmas afternoon.. complete with my new favorite lipstick!!!!

Yes, y'all... I was rockin' a red lip on Christmas!!!!!!! I couldn't afford to dine at a fancy bistro, so I decided to do something within my price range.

So I took myself to the movies. I saw "The Darkest Hour" in 3D... It was actually a pretty good movie. I had a blast sitting in the front of the theatre with my popcorn and soda... dressed up to watch this adventure.

After the movie I walked around Downtown Brooklyn... And it didn't feel awkward, or pathetic to be walking around by myself on Christmas, in fact I saw a lot of people doing it.

It was an amazing day, and one I am very proud of myself about. There's a stigma with many women about going out by themselves to the movies or even to dinner, as Joan expressed in the episode of Girlfriends. Even my Mum who is in her 60s remarked that she had never dined out or gone to the movies alone before. She looked at me with a bit of pride, I think... as I decided to take the holiday into my own hands and set out on my own adventure that day.

Do I feel tremendously empowered? I will say this... I did have a kick ass Christmas, and that alone is empowering!!

:::drools::: Sparkle and Shine for New Year's Time!!!

2011-12-28T16:27:00.056-05:00

I don't know if it's the recent enjoyment of a very special Christmas present I snagged for myself (Yes, I've been watching it all weekend! LOL), but I have been very inspired by sequins. What better way to bring in the new years? And thanks to our favorite celebs, there are certainly scores of inspiration!!!

I've put together an assortment of sequined sweetness that can be used for just a bit of pinch of pizzazz, or to turn yourselves into a one woman New Year's Eve party!!!

Grey Silver Sequin Dolman Top ($38.50, Torrid)

ASOS CURVE Jacket With Sequin Sleeve ($95.45, ASOS)

Women's Sparkle-Toe Ballet Flats ($12.99, Old Navy)

Multicolor sequin skirt ($79.95, Lane Bryant)

Baby Phat Sequin Crop Jacket ($56.99, Dr. Jay's)

Plan Platforms ($135.00, Aldo Shoes)

Michael Kors Sequin Wrap Dress ($79.90, Nordstrom)

SL Fashions Plus Size Dress, Short Split Sleeve Sequin Boat Neck ($109.00, Macy's)

I Heart Her Hair: Tracie Thoms

2011-12-27T12:45:00.027-05:00

I feel like every time I do one of these posts, I'm always remarking about how kick ass each woman is, aside from having fantastic hair. My latest Curl Crush is certainly no exception. Tracie Thoms is one of (not many) women reppin' #teamnatural in the Chris Rock movie "Good Hair", she basically stole the show in Quentin Tarantino's "Death Proof", (Say it with me, "Boo-Yah, Bitch!!!" LOL) and do I need to mention how bananas her voice is?!?!

But Tracie is also my two-strand twist IDOL.... I wish I could get my twists to work the ways hers do. She has a gorgeous head of hair!!!

Music Therapy with Miss Moon

2011-12-26T13:24:00.025-05:00

"A long marriage is two people trying to dance a duet and two solos at the same time."
~Anne Taylor Fleming

Having just ended my engagement, I have no idea if I ever want to go down that road that leads to the wedding chapel ever again.

Don't get me wrong, there's no bitterness. I remain open to where my heart will take me (After all, the third time's the charm, right?!?!), definitely. But it is not something I think will be lacking in my life if it never happens.

That being said... I'm storing this away to my memory as an idea for a DOPE ASS first dance song! LOL

I hope you all will enjoy Van Hunt's "Eyes Like Pearls"....

With loaded eyes she grabbed my arm
Her body was warm as we walked in through the church doors
With loaded eyes she looked in mine
Told me I was the guy. It was what a man does dream for

With eyes like pearls
She's crying precious tears on my shoulder

After I promised her my best
She turned to our guests and blinded them with her high beams

With eyes like pearls
She's crying precious tears as I hold her

As I thanked the preacher I heard
My new brides wheels brush the curb. She slid over and let me drive
Two miles from the church she shook like California dirt
As I slid my hand along her thighs

With eyes like pearls
She's crying precious tears on my shoulder
With eyes like pearls
She's crying precious tears as I hold her

A Little [TAMIA] for a Saturday Night

2011-12-24T18:18:00.011-05:00

Wow, I cannot believe we will be ending our journey through the 90s each Saturday Night as we are ending 2011!!! I for one am looking forward to a lot of Saturday Nights, complete with some good good music in 2012!

Tonight's song is one that was actually released in 1998, and is one that I hope will get you all in the holiday spirit. A part of Jermaine Dupree's Soulful Holiday collection, 12 Soulful Nights of Christmas, here's "The Christmas Song" by the lovely Tamia.

Let's Talk Tresses Friday: What Hair Goodies Have Made Your 'Santa Baby' Wish List?

2011-12-23T12:55:00.006-05:00

Christmas is right around the corner and all over New York City last minute shoppers of hustling and bustling to secure the perfect gift for that special someone. This is the perfect time to place (not too.. ha!) subtle hints to your loved ones about just exactly would like.

My super "wanna wanna wanna" item is something I've been stalking all year, and while I know its unlikely I would get it in time for Christmas, it would certainly be worth the wait!

Huetiful Hair Steamer (behuetiful.com) .... I want one SOOOOOO bad. Luckily Hey Fran Hey is having a Christmas Giveaway for one, so fingers eyes and toes crossed! LOL

Is there a very special item that if spotting it under the Christmas tree would make you act like that little kid who went crazy over the Pokemon card?

Cinema, Cuisine and Cocktail : "True Blood"

2011-12-22T12:16:00.069-05:00

I know, I know.. "True Blood" isn't a movie, it's a television show, but I'm very proud to say that thanks to my efforts (but mostly as a result of Christopher Meloni joining the cast! LOL), my sister is the newest True Blood fan.

She has been catching up on Season One over the past few weeks, so that she could be rightfully prepared when the show returns in June, and I thought that it would be the perfect opportunity to put together a Vampire-theme party menu for New Year's Eve. My plan is to rent Season Two on Netflix, get my familia together and take a virtual trip to Bon Temps, Louisiana to hang out with Sookie, Lafayette and the gang!!

The Menu:
Shrimp Scampi Po-Boy on Garlic Bread
Louisiana Red Beans and Rice
Red Velvet Vampire Bite Cupcakes
Vampire Kiss Martinis

Shrimp Scampi Po-Boy on Garlic Bread

Recipe courtesy Emeril Lagasse, Food Network

Ingredients:

1 1/2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 teaspoon Essence
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons chopped garlic
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Pinch cayenne
1/4 cup dry white wine or Vermouth
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
1/4 cup chopped green onions
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons chiffonade basil
1 loaf Garlic Bread, recipe follows
Finely grated Parmesan cheese, garnish

Directions:

In a bowl, lightly season the shrimp with the Essence.

In a large skillet or saute pan, melt the butter and heat the oil over medium heat. Add the garlic, salt, pepper, and cayenne and cook, stirring, until the garlic is soft and fragrant but not browned, about 2 minutes. Add the wine and bring to a boil. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the wine is reduced by half. Lower the heat to medium-high, add the shrimp, lemon juice, Worcestershire, and lemon zest and cook, stirring, until the shrimp are opaque and starting to turn pink, about 2 minutes. Add the green onions and cook until the shrimp are pink. Stir in the parsley and basil and remove from the heat. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

To serve, spoon the shrimp and sauce into the bottom half of the prepared garlic bread. Sprinkle lightly with cheese and top with the remaining garlic bread. Cut into 4 portions and serve immediately.

Garlic Bread:

1 loaf fresh French or Italian bread, about 22 inches long, cut in half lengthwise

1 stick unsalted butter, softened

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese

2 teaspoons Emeril's Original Essence

2 teaspoons minced fresh parsley

1 teaspoon dehydrated garlic flakes

1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil.

With a fork or your fingers, pull out the excess bread and hollow slightly the center of the loaf.

In a bowl, cream together the remaining ingredients and spread evenly over the cut sides of the bread. Place on the prepared baking sheet and bake until just golden brown and bubbly.

Serve hot.

Louisiana Red Beans and Rice

Recipe Courtesy of La Belle Cuisine

Ingredients:

1 pound dried red beans
10 cups water (or more)
1 ham bone or ham hock
1 pound smoked sausage, cut into 1-inch pieces
3 garlic cloves, crushed
1 1/2 cups chopped yellow onion
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 cup chopped scallions
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon Worcestershire
1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon Creole/Cajun seasoning,
such as Tony Chachere’s
Crushed red pepper to taste
Lemon juice, just a splash
Tabasco sauce to taste
4 cups hot cooked rice

Directions:

Rinse beans well and drain them in a colander. If you remember to cover them with water and let them soak overnight, great. Otherwise, place beans in a large pot, cover them with water and "fast soak" by bringing to a boil and letting them stand off of the heat, covered, for 1 hour. Return beans to the stove, add ham bone, garlic, onions, bell pepper and seasonings. Bring mixture to a boil and reduce heat to simmer. Cook very slowly, partially covered, for 1 1/2 hours. Stir the entire mixture just once about every half hour. Add the smoked sausage and cook another hour, partially covered. Beans are ready to serve when a rich natural "gravy" is formed. Serve over rice.

Red Velvet Vampire Bite Cupcakes

Recipe Courtesy of Vino Primo

Ingredients:

-3 cups cake flour
-1 ½ tsp. baking soda
-1 ½ tsp. salt
-1 tbsp. cocoa powder (for a more chocolate flavor use 4 tbsp.)
-2 ½ cups sugar
-1 cup buttermilk
- ½ cup vegetable or canola oil
-1 ½ cup plain yogurt

-2 eggs
-3 ounces red food coloring (no less!)
-1 tsp. old white wine (can also use white distilled vinegar)
-2 ½ tsp. vanilla extract
-1 recipe or 2 cans of white buttercream frosting
-1 can cherries w/ filling
-1 ounce red food coloring

Directions:

1. Pre-heat oven to 350 F.
2. Sift dry ingredient together.
3. In a separate large bowl, blend wet ingredients.
4. Slowly add dry to wet. Do not over mix.
5. Evenly divide batter between the well of 24 to 30 muffin tin lined paper cups.
6. Bake until center springs back when lightly pressed in center 18 to 22 minutes.
7. Let cupcakes cool to room temperature before frosting.
8. Add one ounce of red food coloring to cherry filling.
9. Use pointed object to make two “vampire bite” puncture marks on each cupcake. (I use a meat thermometer.)
10. Using your pointer to drizzle cherry filling downward from puncture holes to simulate bleeding.

Vampire Kiss Martinis

Recipe Courtesy of Merlotte's Bar Book

Ingredients:
1 part Vodka (chilled)
1 part Champagne
1 part Chambord

Directions:

Pour vodka, then top with Champagne.

Finish off with the "blood": pour some of the Chambord over the back of a spoon to make it float. Garnish with a Blood orange slice.

Miss Moon's Musing About: I've been chosen...

2011-12-21T10:44:00.035-05:00

How super excited am I to have been nominated for The Versatile Blogger Award?!?! So much gratitude and appreciation for Sass n Curlz for nominating me!!

Here are the rules:

Nominate 15 fellow bloggers.
Inform the bloggers of their nomination.
Share 7 random things about yourself.
Thank the blogger who nominated you.
Add the Versatile Blog Award picture on your blog post.

I know so many Blogs that deserve this title, it was hard for me to narrow it down to 15!!! Here are my picks (in no particular order):

http://backtocurly.com/

http://www.kiffecoco.com/

http://www.beautyfash.com/

http://afroartnerd.blogspot.com/

http://www.commecoco.com/

http://michellesphotos.wordpress.com/

http://belladuafe.blog.com/

http://creativeurbanista.wordpress.com/

http://thebohemiandiva.wordpress.com/

http://www.weeshasworld.com/

http://chocolateorchid.blogspot.com/

http://makeupandbeautyjunkie.wordpress.com/

http://naturallyahsiek.blogspot.com/

http://www.natreview.com/

http://talecia-godclothesandfood.blogspot.com/

7 random things about me:

1) I sing all the time! I get songs stuck in my head and sing absentmindedly.

2) I cannot go to bed unless I figure out what I'm wearing to work the next day.

3) I'm really enjoying being single again!!!

4) I still don't know what I want to do when I grow up. Well, I have an idea, but I don't know how to do it yet.

5) I'm blessed to have some kick ass friends in my life.

6) I dream of visiting Eleuthera (in the Bahamas) by the time I'm 40.

7) I'm obsessed with the movie Megamind.. it's so funny!!!

I Heart Her Hair: Andy Allo...

2011-12-20T13:08:00.015-05:00

Andy Allo is the bomb... simply put! She has an amazing voice, she plays a killer guitar, and of course, she has a badass fro and curls for days!!

Music Therapy with Miss Moon

2011-12-19T12:52:00.004-05:00

“Life is like a mirror, we get the best results when we smile at it.”
~ Unknown

With the Holidays upon us, and a new year just around the corner... it can be easy to dwell in mistakes you have made this past year, or get lost in the "could've, would've, should've"s, but really, what's the point? Everything happens for a reason. And I'm discovering, there's always a blessing that comes from what we do.

So, I'm taking this opportunity to celebrate my life, and smile, because I know that nothing but the best is in store for me today, tomorrow, and in the upcoming year. And you know what? The same will be in store for you, for all of us... if we want it.

Today's music therapy song choice is the perfect anthem for celebrating all that you are. I hope all of you will dance and celebrate with Mary J. Blige's "Just Fine"

You know I love music
And every time I hear something hot
It makes me wanna move
It makes me wanna have fun
But it’s something about this joint right here
This joint right here
Its makes me wanna…..Woooh

Let it go……
Can’t let this thing called love get away from you
Feel free right now, going do what you want to do
Can’t let nobody take it away, from you, from me, from we
No time for moping around, are you kidding?
And no time for negative vibes, cause I’m winning
It’s been a long week, I put in my hardest
Gonna live my life, feels so good to get it right

So I like what I see when I’m looking at me
When I’m walking past the mirror
No stress through the night, at a time in my life
Ain’t worried about if you feel it
Got my head on straight, I got my mind right
I aint gonna let you kill it
You see I wouldn’t change my life, my life’s just…..

Fine, fine, fine, fine, fine, fine, ooooh
Fine, fine, fine, fine, fine, fine, ooooh
Just fine, fine, fine, fine, fine, fine, ooooh
You see I wouldn’t change my life, my life’s just fine

Feels so good, when you’re doing all the things that you want to do
Get the best out of life, treat yourself to something new
Keep your head up high
In yourself, believe in you, believe in me
Having a really good time, I’m not complaining
And I’m a still wear a smile if it raining
I got to enjoy myself regardless
I appreciate life, I’m so glad I got mine
So I like what I see when I’m looking at me

When I’m walking past the mirror
Aint worried about you and what you gonna do
I’m a lady so I must stay classy
Got to keep it hot, keep it together
If I want to get better
You see I wouldn’t change my life, my life’s just…..
Fine, fine, fine, fine, fine, fine, ooooh
Fine, fine, fine, fine, fine, fine, ooooh
Just fine, fine, fine, fine, fine, fine, ooooh
You see I won’t change my life, my life’s just fine

I aint gon’ let nothing get in my way
(I ain't gone let nobody bring me down, no, no, no)
No matter what nobody has to say
(No way, no way, no way)
I ain’t gon’ let nothing get in my way
No matter what nobody has to say

Feels so good, when you’re doing all the things that you want to do
Get the best out of life, treat yourself to something new
It’s a really good thing to say
That I won’t change my life, my life’s just fine

Fine, fine, fine, fine, fine, fine, ooooh
Fine, fine, fine, fine, fine, fine, ooooh
Just fine, fine, fine, fine, fine, fine, ooooh
You see I won’t change my life, my life’s just fine

So I like what I see when I’m looking at me
When I’m walking past the mirror
No stress through the night, at a time in my life
Ain’t worried about if you feel it
Got my head on straight, I got my mind right
I ain’t gonna let you kill it
You see I wouldn’t change my life, my life’s just…..

Fine, fine, fine, fine, fine, fine, ooooh
Fine, fine, fine, fine, fine, fine, ooooh
Just fine, fine, fine, fine, fine, fine, ooooh
You see I wouldn’t change my life, my life’s just fine

A Little [NOTORIOUS B.I.G.] for a Saturday Night

2011-12-17T20:01:00.013-05:00

This week's song choice for a Saturday Night is from another artist who left us far too soon. I couldn't end our trip through the music of the 90s without a) adding some hip hop to the mix and b) representin' Brooklyn, so I hope you all will enjoy "Hypnotize".

Let's Talk Tresses Friday: What to do when stuck in a rut?!?

2011-12-16T13:11:00.040-05:00

I'm pretty much a stickler when it comes to my natural hair routine. That being said... there have been a few occasions when I've been tired of the same ole, same ole and opted to try something new for a spell. These are most often the times when I take my "braid-cations", and opt to wear my hair in braids for a few months to take a break from the routine.

One thing I've learned so far is that when in a rut, it pays to make SUBTLE changes... going overboard may result in a major case of remorse...Need I mention my horrible D-I-Y Dye Job?!?!? LOL

This completely illustrates how I felt after recognizing the mistake I made. So now, instead of completely changing the way I style my hair, or throwing out my tried-and-true products for those new brands on the scene, I make a slight change, which is just enough "new" for me to not feel as bored as I was before. For example, this week I decided that instead of the same old tired center part I rock 24/7, I'd try a side part.

I also experimented with how I section my hair during washing, and tried Miss Jessie's Curly Meringue (which was a part of the gift basket I won from Curl Crush) to braid my hair. I even changed up how I braided my hair, using smaller braids per section. Daring? Not very... but it was a refreshing change of pace for me, and I think the results looked pretty good actually.... it's something I may incorporate for a few weeks, until I miss my usual style.

It's amazing what such a small change can do to inspire you. I made a change that was well within my comfort zone, and I'm loving it!

Have you ever experienced a rut on your natural hair journey? What did you do? Share your stories of the most outlandish or simple changes you made to spice up your hair routine.

Yummm! Holiday Cookies Santa'll Thank You For...

2011-12-15T12:21:00.059-05:00

One of my favorite Holiday traditions as a kid was leaving a plate of cookies and milk out for Santa Christmas Eve. I remember the excitement I felt when I woke up to see the plate almost empty and a note from the Jolly One thanking me for the snack. It's something I look forward to doing for my kids one day. When I pass on the tradition, I think I will give Nicky a break from all the sugar cookies and chocolate chips. Here are a few recipes that I think Santa might leave an extra present for!!!

Creme de Menthe Balls

Recipe Courtesy of ChristmasCookies.com

Ingredients:

1 cup vanilla wafer crumbs
3/4 cup finely chopped pecans
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoon light corn syrup
1/3 cup green creme de menthe
additional powdered sugar

Directions:

Combine wafer crumbs, pecans, 1 cup powdered sugar, corn syrup and creme de menthe, blending to make a stiff dough. Roll into 1" balls, then roll in additional powdered sugar to coat.

Meemaw's Kitchen Sink Christmas Cookies

Recipe courtesy Paula ("Hey Y'all!") Deen, Food Network

Ingredients:

3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 pound (2 sticks) butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup lightly packed light brown sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup puffed rice cereal
1 cup sweetened flaked coconut
1 cup rolled old-fashioned oats
1 (8-ounce) package toffee bits
White chocolate, for dipping
15 peppermint hard candies, crushed, for garnish

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt.

Using an electric mixer, cream the butter and sugars. Scrape the sides of the mixer bowl and beat in the oil, egg, and vanilla until smooth. Beat in the flour mixture in 3 small additions, scraping the sides of the bowl after each one. Slowly beat in the rice cereal, coconut, and oats. Fold in the toffee bits and refrigerate the dough, covered, for 1 hour.

Drop rounded tablespoons of dough on 2 cookie sheets, leaving at least 1-inch of space around each drop. Bake until the cookies are golden around the edges, 12 to 14 minutes. Transfer the cookies to wire racks to cool.

Using a double boiler, melt the white chocolate. Dip the cookies into the white chocolate and sprinkle crushed peppermint to decorate. Allow to cool or serve warm. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.

Holiday Peanut Blossom Cookies

Recipe Courtesy of Cooks.com

Ingredients:

1 3/4 c. flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 c. sugar
1/2 c. brown sugar
1/2 c. shortening
1/2 c. peanut butter
1 egg
2 tbsp. milk
1 tsp. vanilla
48 chocolate Kisses

Directions:

Combine all ingredients, except chocolate Kisses, in mixing bowl. Mix on lowest speed until dough forms. Shape dough into balls using a teaspoon for each. Roll balls in sugar. Place on ungreased cookie sheet.

Bake in 375°F oven for 10 to 12 minutes. Top each cookie with chocolate Kiss immediately and add holiday sprinkles and icing for a special touch. Press down firmly so cookie cracks around edges.

Makes 48.

Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies

Recipe Courtesy of Epicurious.com

Ingredients:

Cookies
1 3/4 cups all purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-process)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup sugar
3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
1 large egg

Filling
1 cup plus 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
3/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
2 drops (or more) red food coloring

1/2 cup crushed red-and-white-striped candy canes or hard peppermint candies (about 4 ounces)

Directions:

For cookies:
Whisk flour, cocoa, and salt in medium bowl to blend. Using electric mixer, beat sugar and butter in large bowl until well blended. Beat in egg. Add dry ingredients; beat until blended. Refrigerate dough 1 hour.

Preheat oven to 350°F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop out dough by level tablespoonfuls, then roll into smooth balls. Place balls on prepared baking sheets, spacing about 2 inches apart. Using bottom of glass or hands, flatten each ball to 2-inch round (edges will crack). Bake until cookies no longer look wet and small indentation appears when tops of cookies are lightly touched with fingers, about 11 minutes (do not overbake or cookies will become too crisp). Cool on sheet 5 minutes. Transfer chocolate cookies to racks and cool completely.

For filling:
Using electric mixer, beat powdered sugar and butter in medium bowl until well blended. Add peppermint extract and 2 drops food coloring. Beat until light pink and well blended, adding more food coloring by dropfuls if darker pink color is desired. Spread 2 generous teaspoons filling evenly over flat side of 1 cookie to edges; top with another cookie, flat side down, pressing gently to adhere. Repeat with remaining cookies and peppermint filling.
Place crushed candy canes on plate. Roll edges of cookie sandwiches in crushed candies (candies will adhere to filling). (Cookie sandwiches can be made ahead. Store in single layer in airtight container at room temperature up to 3 days or freeze up to 2 weeks.)

White-Chocolate-Glazed Cookies

Recipe Courtesy of Martha Stewart

Ingredients:

1 batch plain or tinted Vanilla Dough (pressed into any shape)
1 cup melted white chocolate (8 ounces)
Small candies (optional)

Directions:

Knead dough briefly to soften. Fill a cookie press with dough, and fit with disk to make shapes. Squeeze cookies directly onto a baking sheet. Bake at 350 degrees until firm, 12 to 14 minutes.
Let cool completely before dipping in the white chocolate. Apply small or crushed candies while glaze is wet. Let white-chocolate-glazed cookies set in refrigerator, and keep chilled until ready to serve.

I Wanna Go Shopping With...Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen...

2011-12-14T13:13:00.002-05:00

Ever since their "You got it, dude!" days, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen have blossomed right before our eyes. They have grown into popular actresses, entrepreneurs, and women with their own extraordinary style. The New York Times even declared Mary-Kate a fashion icon for her signature look, called by some "ashcan".

I love how their styles are unique and different from each other, but when together.. there's a harmony in their looks. I cannot say which sister's style is my favorite, as sometimes I'm like Mary-Kate, and sometimes I'm more like Ashley in terms of dress (if no way else.. lol!). That's why I'd love to go shopping with both of them! Here are some note-worthy looks:

Mary-Kate on the red carpet, rocking the hell out of that fedora!!!

From Ashley's shoes to Mary-Kate's killer pumps, I could very easily go on and on about each item I'd love to own!

I am all about the white blazer and tan clutch Ashley is wearing here. This look is one that would be perfect for the office!

Mary-Kate and Ashley looking like a very posh version of Spy vs. Spy... I love it!!!

This is hands down one of my favorite looks: from the hair and make up to the outfits... love, love, love!!!

I would honestly do a drive-by on both of these sunglasses!!!!!! LOL

D-O-P-E Dope...... I'm not a fur wearer but if a lady wears it well, I say werk!

The Olsen Twins are bajillionaires, and they recycle pieces of clothing all the time. This I love about them!!!

Mary-Kate, I'm-a need that ring, girl...

Is that a wooden clutch Ashley is rocking?!?!? Fab!!

Mahvelous Maxi Dresses!!! And I am really diggin' Ashley with that dark hair... it's a good look for her!

Mary-Kate, you better work those leopard pumps!!!!!!

Ashley looking FABULOUS in Vogue.

Divine!!!!

Miss Moon's Musing About: Curl Crush with the Curly Girl Collective

2011-12-13T13:47:00.000-05:00

Here's something you may not know about me: I'm painfully shy when it comes to meeting new people. I find myself feeling as awkward as a 12-year-old at their first boy/girl dance. This is something I strive to improve about myself, so I was very excited (and nervous) when I heard about the newest natural hair event sponsored by Curly Girl Collective, Curl Crush.

Curl Crush was an event that first and foremost celebrated natural hair like most events do, but with a little something extra that made it totally unique. Taking a cue from the ever-popular speed dating events, Curl Crush gave everyone an event to sit and meet with stylist, bloggers, and other curly girlies for five minute "dates" to discuss products, techniques and just to bask in each other's beauty. I took a big, deep gulp and RSVP'd "Yes".

Held at the beautiful Taj Lounge on 21st Street in Manhattan, women from across the tri-state area braved the rain that day to hang out on a work week and enjoy the festivities.

In addition to the "speed hair" sessions, guests were invited to participate in a scavenger hunt that required chatting with fellow guests to answer questions like, "Who big chopped this year?", "Who is presently transitioning?", and "Who has a hair steamer?", while sipping complimentary signature drinks for the event. I had such a blast and I'm so glad I went... and participated in a speed hair session!

Here's the first group getting to know one another....

Even the fabulous texture guru Dickey of Hair Rules joined in on the fun!

After five minutes were up, it's time to switch and meet your next curl crush!

Curly Girl Collective partnered with NaturallyCurly.com and (the fabulous!) Shea Moisture to host this event. Gia Low, one of the founders of CGC told Essence Magazine, "The energy in the room was simply golden!" "The women here gained a sense of sisterhood, inspiration and empowerment which is so instrumental in the natural hair community," continued Charisse Higgins, also one of the group's founders.

The lovely ladies of Curly Girl Collective welcoming party goes to the night's festivities.

Me (and my rain soaked curls!) with Raena, whom I met during our "speed date". Our conversation went from hair to makeup, and thanks to her, I am the newest member of the Cult of Ruby Woo. See? Not only did I face my fears of meeting new people, but I rocked a red lip while doing it!!! Talk about a two-fer!! LOL

I met Courtney a few months ago at another event, so when I bumped into her... I had to request my old and new "curl friends" to pose for a picture together. How DOPE are her earrings!?!?!?!?

Another highlight of the event was meeting Chai of Back to Curly, whom I've been such a major fan of for ages... I didn't snap a picture of the two of us (Booo, me!), but be sure to check out my cameo in her recap of the night.

In addition to mingling, there were some great vendors present, selling goodies that would make a welcome addition to any natural's home. After drooling from afar all night, I snatched up a tote bag, ankara hoop earrings and hair bows from QuellyRue Designs... I've been rocking the heck out of those earrings, so I have a feeling you'll be seeing them on me sometime soon!

For those who didn't want to shop, there was an opportunity to get your hands on some killer prizes in the raffle, one of the main prizes being a Huetiful Hair Steamer. I wanted that steamer... badly, so I purchased copious tickets in the hopes of bringing that baby home! I didn't (Awww!), but I did walk away with three of the raffle prizes, which included an amazing gift basket full of Miss Jessie's, Beautiful Textures, and Oyin Handmade products... in addition to two(!!!) Shea Moisture Gift Sets.... so I have no complaints! LOL

This event was definitely a highlight of the year for me, and I cannot wait to see what the wonderful women behind Curly Girl Collective think of next, because they sure do know how to throw a party!!!!!

Music Therapy with Miss Moon

2011-12-12T09:21:00.000-05:00

"I deepen my experience of God through prayer, meditation, and forgiveness."
~ Marianne Williamson

Happy Monday, Everybody!!! This week's Music Therapy with Miss Moon has become a sort of anthem for me in the past few weeks. Because the lyrics speak volumes to who I am and how I feel at this moment, I will let Amel Larrieux fill you in. I hope you all will enjoy "Orange Glow".

I want to rise
above
My fears before they burn my solar plexus
Don't want to fight
The new
Just meditate on the state
Of what I'm changing into

Touch the light
orange glow to wash your soul
illuminate you
out of sight
burn your house of pain and watch the flames ignite your breakthrough

I want to take
That ride
To the planet where the brave me resides
And I will face
The fire
Cuz aint no breakthrough gonna come without no sacrifice

Touch the light
orange glow to wash your soul
illuminate you
out of sight
burn your house of pain and watch the flames ignite your breakthrough

I'm like
Vibrating as the liquid enters my fingertips
Pulses in my veins
From my toes to my lips
Fuels my brain
Frees my pain
Breaks my mental chains
Awakened I am
As I blink my third eye
One life
Have I
So its time to live

Touch the light
orange glow to wash your soul
illuminate you
out of sight
burn your house of pain and watch the flames ignite your breakthrough

A Little [AALIYAH] for a Saturday Night

2011-12-10T19:43:00.022-05:00

I cannot believe this song is 15 years old, but it was released in 1996 (It seems like yesterday!!!).

I was 18 years old when this song came out, how crazy is THAT?!?! And more insane, is the fact that Aaliyah is no longer with us. I miss her voice and I'm sorry I will never see her star rise like it was intended to. I hope you all will enjoy "If Your Girl Only Knew".

Let's Talk Tresses Friday: Relaxed vs. Natural.... Let's End the Battle!

2011-12-09T12:42:00.105-05:00

I was doing my weekly "natural hair" web search and I noticed a question from a young woman on Yahoo! Answers:

Why do black women argue over "relaxed vs natural" hair?

The biracial poster, asks why all these "natural women" with natural hair are preaching "black unity" and insulting her for relaxing her hair. I won't bore you with the details (you can click the link should you want to), but my first instinct was to post a reply with an eclipse-sized portion of shade about getting over yourself because this "natural woman" is not studying you. LOL

I decided against it, because I happen to agree with her on one thing: the debate and battle is pretty damn played out. I mean, wasn't Joie Lee, Tisha Campbell and 'em singing and dancing about this in 1988?!?!? I was eleven then, man!!!

With the popularity of natural hair on the rise, so has this "battle" that has been lived out between women with relaxed hair and women with natural hair. Even Dr. Drew had a recent "Good Hair" debate, which really brought the battle to the mainstream.

Photo Courtesy of MadameNoire.com

What's troubling about the argument, is that it seems to always escalate to a point where the debate turns into who has "good hair" and who has "bad hair"... and then we're stuck in front of Madame ReRe's again... and we all look like a bunch of trivial and superficial little girls for arguing about hair... when there are really far more serious matters we could collaborate and focus our attentions on.

How about we promise to be proud and feel beautiful about ourselves, and bunk who dares to tell us otherwise? How about we promise to treat our hair well and give it what it needs to be healthy? How about you relax away, honey... with pride... while I'll rock my braid outs with pride?!? How about you keep the Nicki Minaj quotes about "Perminator" to yourself (This actually happened to me recently.. the girl was all of 14, so I just shook my head and kept it moving! LOL ) and I won't accuse you of wanting to be anything other than happy? How about we ALL get over this debate and focus our attention into something positive... like feeding the hungry, educating our youth, and instilling in our sons and daughters a degree of self love that will ensure we never have to entertain the masses with arguments over our hair again? Who's with me? Sound off and leave a comment!

Cinema Couture: Love Jones (1997)

2011-12-08T16:05:00.036-05:00

In the past, I've blogged about my love of the film "Love Jones", as well as my love of Nia Long's style.... I thought that it was time to merge these two loves, and at the same time, add my third installment of the Cinema Couture series.

As Nina, Nia Long's style was definitely a city casual chic that's perfect for winter.

Dark colors, jeans, boots, wool pea coats, and killer black shades. I decided to put all of these items together and put together an outfit inspired by Nina. Here's what I came up with:

Coat: Black Textured Trench Peacoat ($82.95, Torrid)
Sweater: Black Ribbed Turtleneck Sweater ($24.50, Ashley Stewart)
Pants: Women's Plus Wide-Leg Dress Trousers ($46.94, Old Navy)
Booties: Impo Bowie Bootie ($49.95, DSW)
Earrings: Rose Rhinestone Studs ($2.80, Forever 21)
Sunglasses: Fossil Kathleen 2 Polarized ($70.00, Zappo's)

Music Therapy with Miss Moon

2011-12-05T11:05:00.048-05:00

“To wish you were someone else is to waste the person you are.”

Happy Monday, everybody! Last week I encountered something that was pretty powerful for me, that inspired my song choice for this week's Music Therapy with Miss Moon. A tough week at work, coupled with picking the pieces after the end of my engagement and five year relationship had me feeling like the weight of the world was on our shoulders. After work one day, I stopped to have a cigarette before heading on the train when I was approached by a young woman who was 19 years old.

She approached me quite hesitantly to bum a cigarette and asked if I minded if she joined me for a smoke. I said of course not and we fell into a conversation about our lives. It was very much like talking to my 19 year old self, as she talked about the fears and concerns she had for her future. I too had those feelings, along with an amazing sense of opportunity.

As she poured her heart out to me, a stranger, about her worries about getting into the right school and whether her life would be happy, I remembered how hesitant and unsure of myself I was at 19.

I am a far happier woman today at 34 than I was then, despite being newly single and tired and in desperate need of a vacation. I wouldn't trade places with her for the world.

I told her that everything I've done, for better or worse, have ultimately made me the woman I am today. And that woman is awesome. I told her that her future begins 30 seconds from now, so what's the use in dwelling in the fear of it.

I hope that my words of encouragement reached out to her that night, and I dedicate this song, a song that I loved very much at her age, to her wherever she is. Here's "Dancing Nancies" by the Dave Matthews Band. It's a song about pondering what life would be like if you were someone else, as I have, and I'm sure we all have. Let it serve as a reminder to recognize how wonderful we all are, despite wishing we were more at times.

Could I have been
A parking lot attendant
Could I have been
A millionaire in Bel Air
Could I have been Lost somewhere in Paris
Could I have been
Your little brother
Could I have been
Anyone other than me
Could I have been
Anyone other than me
Could I have been
Anyone other than me
Could I have been
Anyone

He stands touch his hair his shoes untied
Tongue gaping stare
Could I have been a magnet for money?
Could I have been anyone other than me?

Twenty three and so tired of life
Such a shame to throw it all away
The images grow darker still
Could I have been anyone other than me? Then I
Look up at the sky
My mouth is open wide, lick and taste
What's the use in worrying, what's the use in hurrying
Turn, turn we almost become dizzy

I am who I am who I am who am I
Requesting some enlightenment
Could I have been anyone other than me?

Sing and dance I'll play for you tonight
And thrill at it all
Dark clouds may hang on me sometimes
But I'll work it out then I

Look up at the sky
My mouth is open wide, lick and taste
What's the use in worrying, what's the use in hurrying
Turn, turn we almost become dizzy

Falling out of a world of lies
Could I have been dancing nancy
Could I have been anyone other than me?

A Little [D'ANGELO] for a Saturday Night

2011-12-03T19:23:00.020-05:00

I remember the first time I heard tonight's song. I actually was introduced through the music video and like many straight women (and I'm sure a lot of gay men) thought, "Who the eff is THAT?!?!?!?!", and more importantly, "Where can I get one?!?!?" LOL

Yeah, he's not singing about a girl... but we can dream, can't we? Our trip through the 1990s is picking up steam, with a bit of heat from D'Angelo's "Brown Sugar"...

:::drools::: LaLa Anthony-style for Plus Size Fashionistas

2011-11-30T13:57:00.037-05:00

Can you believe that November's almost over? Wow this month has flown by! With the holidays rapidly approaching, many of us will be getting dressed up and heading out to parties with friends, families, and for a special holiday date.

I recently spotted LaLa Anthony at a party celebrating her stage debut in "Love, Loss and What I Wore" and I knew that her ensemble would be perfect to rock for a special occasion.

From the lady-like lace dress, to the bows on her pumps, she looks sophisticated, festive, and gorgeous!

This is a look guaranteed to turn heads and I couldn't wait to recreate it. Here's what I came up with:

Dress: Jessica London Shift Dress in Lace ($59.99 - $69.99, One Stop Plus)
Shoes: Journee Collection Women's 'Stefan-7' Ruffle Detail Peep Toe Pumps ($39.49, Overstock.com)
Clutch: Antique Embellished Clutch ($19.80, Forever21)

Cheers to having a wonderful (and fabulous!!) Holiday!!!!

Music Therapy with Miss Moon

2011-11-28T09:30:00.053-05:00

Everything you need in life begins with you. It's biological: your body needs oxygen to survive, so you breathe... your body craves rest, so you sleep. And it doesn't stop with our basic bodily functions. LOL

We spend so much of our lives, straining to hang on to just a finger's length grasp of what we want, when there are more effortless ways of getting it.

This is what this week's Music Therapy with Miss Moon is all about. "Love" can represent anything you aspire for, or it can be finding the one that fills your heart with joy. Take the energy out of pulling and fighting and use it to lifting yourself up. Meditate, read, laugh, cry, feel and grow. As you lift yourself up, you'll recognize you won't have to stretch and pull anymore, as you've reached a height where the love (or the job, or the vacation, or the life) that you want is right in front of you.

I hope you all will enjoy "Love Will Find Me" by Little Jackie.

Love Will Find Me by Little Jackie

My life thus far has been held together
by band aides and safety pins,
nothin quite fits but I'm still tryin
to squeeze my body into it,
I've been frontin, I've been wantin
someone who fits me effortlessly,
with ease and room to spare,
cause I've endured some wear and tear

with all these meaningless love affairs,
fake smiles and dishonest laughter,
fast forward to the morning after
I'm all dolled up lookin like a disaster

I just wanna wash off the lipstick
take off the stilletos
play my music and get with my own flow
and love will find me eventually
I'm gonna dance with my shadow
I'm goin all out, never forgettin what I'm all about
and love will find me eventually
you just wait and see yeah

I'll just sit here and look real cute
while he buys me drinks I'll look for an escape route
grab my purse and exit through the back door
get in my car put the petal to the floor and
I'll fly home singin out loud
life's too short so get off my cloud,
if I can't be myself
I don't wanna be with nobody else.

I just wanna wash off the lipstick
take off the stilletos
play my music and get with my own flow
and love will find me eventually
I'm gonna dance with my shadow
I'm goin all out, never forgettin what I'm all about
and love will find me eventually
you just wait and see yeah

cause they always just crash and burn
crash and burn, when will I learn

to stop lyin, stop hidin, quit cryin stop tryin

I just wanna wash off the lipstick
take off the stilletos
play my music and get with my own flow
and love will find me eventually
I'm gonna dance with my shadow
I'm goin all out, never forgettin what I'm all about
and love will find me eventually
you just wait and see yeah

A Little [LISA LOEB] for a Saturday Night

2011-11-26T20:06:00.006-05:00

Oh man, this song..... only some of you will know where I'm coming from.

To be sixteen years old and to have this song in your life is simply magical. This was a tune I would crank and play on a loop for hours at a time. Even the toughest, most bad-ass, Wu Tang-listening chicks at my high school would crumble to pieces at the opening melody... it has that power over you.

To this day if I happen to catch the video or hear the song playing on the radio, everything stops until its over. It's also one of my favorite songs to sing when I get my karaoke on. Released in 1994, I hope you all will sigh and reminisce with me to "Stay".

Let's Talk Tresses Friday: Natural Hair in the Workplace...

2011-11-25T15:04:00.021-05:00

I've been very fortunate when it comes to my working life: I've never encountered a situation where I felt my hair was an issue. And I'm very blessed to have never been told outright that my hair needed to be changed or modified in order to keep my job.

It is shocking to me that there are countless stories of women being made the butt of jokes from their co-workers for having natural hair or even getting fired.

What has been your experiences being natural in the workplace? Share your stories here!

Miss Moon's Musing About: Gratitude and Giving Thanks...

2011-11-24T12:15:00.002-05:00

"Gratitude helps you to grow and expand; gratitude brings joy and laughter into your life and into the lives of all those around you."
~ Eileen Caddy

“Wake at dawn with a winged heart and give thanks for another day of loving.”
~ Kahlil Gibran

Despite all of the challenges that have entered my life in the past couple of weeks, I remain very appreciative and grateful for the lessons and blessings that come with them. Thanksgiving is the perfect time to reflect on everything and everyone that has helped make me the woman I am today.

To everyone in my life, to everyone who has yet to present themselves, to everyone who has made me laugh, to everyone who has made me cry, to every single person who reads these words, I say simply...

Yummm! Awesome After-Thanksgiving Recipes for Your Leftover Turkey...

2011-11-23T13:21:00.094-05:00

Thanksgiving is one day away (cue "Tomorrow is Thanksgiving" song, for everyone who attended P.S. 135 in Brooklyn! lol), and all over the globe families will be gathering together to spend time, laugh, watch the game, and eat until they lapse into a food coma. But what do you do after the friends and family have returned home and you have LOADS of turkey left over? There's really only so many turkey sandwiches you actually WANT to eat, really!

Never fear, good peers! I have scoured the internet and have assembled a group of yummy recipes that can be creating using the leftover turkey from the night before.

Curried Turkey Casserole

Recipe courtesy of Martha Stewart Living

Ingredients

1/4 cup (1/2 stick) plus 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 small yellow onion, diced small
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk, room temperature
2 teaspoons curry powder
Coarse salt and ground pepper
6 1/2 cups broccoli florets (from 1 bunch)
4 cups cooked turkey, cut into 3/4-inch pieces
3 cups day-old bread, diced medium

Directions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. In a medium pot, melt 1/4 cup butter over medium. Add onion and garlic; cook until slightly softened but not browned, about 7 minutes. Whisk in flour and continue to whisk 1 minute. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly until mixture is smooth. Cook, stirring frequently, until sauce comes to a simmer. Stir in curry powder and season to taste with salt and pepper. Add broccoli and cook just until beginning to soften, 5 minutes. Stir in cooked turkey. Transfer mixture to an 8-inch square baking dish.

In a small bowl, toss bread with remaining 2 tablespoons butter, melted, until coated. Top turkey mixture with bread and bake until sauce is bubbling and bread is golden brown, about 15 minutes.

Day After Thanksgiving Turkey Pho

Recipe courtesy of pooks088, AllRecipes.com

Ingredients

1 whole cardamom pod
2 whole cloves
1 star anise pod
1 teaspoon fennel seeds
2 teaspoons coriander seed
1 (2 inch) piece fresh ginger, peeled and smashed
1/2 onion, peeled
1 turkey carcass
8 cups water, or more as needed
1 (16 ounce) package dried flat rice noodles
1/4 cup fish sauce
salt to taste
1 cup shredded leftover cooked turkey
1 tablespoon shredded fresh basil leaves (optional)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
1/4 onion, thinly sliced (optional)
1 lime, cut into wedges (optional)
1 tablespoon chile-garlic sauce (such as Sriracha®), or to taste (optional)

Directions

Toast the cardamom pod, cloves, star anise, fennel, and coriander in a small skillet over medium-low heat until fragrant, 5 to 7 minutes. Place the spices onto the center of a 8 inch square piece of cheesecloth. Gather together the edges of the cheesecloth, and tie with kitchen twine to secure. Sear both sides of the ginger and 1/2 onion in the same skillet until lightly charred, about 3 minutes on each side.

Place the turkey carcass, water, sachet, ginger, and onion in a large pot over medium-high eat. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Simmer for 2 hours.

Fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring to a rolling boil over high heat. Once the water is boiling, stir in the rice noodles, and return to a boil. Cook the noodles uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the noodles have cooked through, but is still firm to the bite, 4 to 5 minutes. Drain well in a colander set in the sink.

Remove the carcass, sachet, ginger, and onion from the soup. Strain the soup to remove any meat that may have fallen off the bones, if necessary. Season with fish sauce and salt. Divide the rice noodles and turkey meat evenly into 4 large bowls. Scatter the basil, cilantro, and sliced onion on top. Ladle the soup on top. Serve with a wedge of lime and hot sauce.

Crispy Turkey Tostadas

Recipe Courtesy of EatingWell

Ingredients

1 14-ounce can petite diced tomatoes, preferably with jalapeños
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
3 cups shredded cooked turkey
8 corn tortillas
Canola or olive oil cooking spray
1 avocado, pitted
1/4 cup prepared salsa
2 tablespoons reduced-fat sour cream
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
1 cup shredded romaine lettuce
1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Directions

Position racks in the upper and lower thirds of the oven; preheat to 375°F.

Bring tomatoes and their juice to a boil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and most of the liquid has evaporated, 15 to 20 minutes. Add turkey and cook until heated through, 1 to 2 minutes.

Meanwhile, coat tortillas on both sides with cooking spray. Divide the tortillas between 2 large baking sheets. Bake, turning once, until crisped and lightly brown, about 10 minutes
.
Mash avocado in a bowl. Stir in salsa, sour cream and cilantro until combined.

To assemble tostadas, spread each crisped tortilla with some of the avocado mixture. Top with the turkey mixture, lettuce and cheese.

Turkey-Porcini Tetrazzini

Recipe courtesy of Delish

Ingredients

1 package(s) (1-ounce) dried porcini mushrooms
2 1/2 cup(s) large pieces of roast turkey
8 ounce(s) wide egg noodles, cooked
3 tablespoon(s) olive oil
3 tablespoon(s) finely chopped shallots
1 teaspoon(s) chopped thyme leaves
1 pinch(s) cayenne pepper
3 tablespoon(s) all-purpose flour
2 1/2 cup(s) milk
1 tablespoon(s) cognac, quartered
1/4 teaspoon(s) salt
1/2 cup(s) Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup(s) bread crumbs

Directions

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Soak mushrooms according to package directions, reserving 1 1/2 cups liquid. Chop mushrooms, then toss with large pieces of roast turkey and wide egg noodles in a large bowl.

Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sauté shallots until softened, about 5 minutes. Add thyme leaves and cayenne pepper and cook until shallots become golden, about 2 more minutes.

Stir in all-purpose flour and cook until browned, 1 to 2 minutes. Add milk, cognac, and reserved porcini liquid. Scrape bits from bottom of pan and season with salt. Heat just to boiling, then pour over noodle mixture; toss. Transfer to a baking dish, cover with lightly buttered aluminum foil, and bake for 25 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix Parmesan cheese with bread crumbs. Remove foil from casserole and sprinkle with cheese mixture. Continue to bake until golden, about 10 minutes.

:::drools::: Coco Rocha-style for Plus Size Fashionistas

2011-11-22T14:35:00.000-05:00

How awesome is Canadian supermodel Coco Rocha?!?! I recently discovered her via America's Next Top Model and was instantly blown away by her unique beauty. Since then, I've spotted her often when surfing the web for fashion inspiration and I'm always diggin' her sense of style and the way she rocks her frocks. So I decided Miss Coco would be an awesome candidate for an outfit remix fluffy sister-style.

I spotted this photo of Coco at the opening party she hosted for LG Fashion Week in Toronto and I knew instantly that this was the outfit I wanted to recreate. I think it'd be a killer outfit to rock at an informal Holiday Party!!

Who says you can't be red carpet ready in a tee shirt and jeans?!?! Here's what I've come up with:

Jacket: Anna Scholz Feather Jacket ($199.00, Simply Be)
Tank Top: Black Feather Print Beaded Tank Top ($28.50, Torrid)
Jeans: Pleat Pocket Skinny Jeans ($27.80, Forever 21)
Booties: Pirnie Wedge Booties ($39.98, Aldo Shoes)

LMAO You tell 'em, girl!!!

A Little [JODECI] for a Saturday Night

2011-11-19T19:55:00.006-05:00

Another Saturday night is here, my friends. I hope you all have been enjoying our return to the 90s as much as I have. Tonight's song is one that was a HUGE hit in 1993, and I still think it's as lovely today as it was back then.

I hope you all will enjoy Jodeci's rendition of the beautifully poetic Stevie Wonder song, "Lately"... and if you think about Martin wearing the boots and singing with them ("Jojo..... KC......Devante.....!") like I did, it's okay, too! LOL

Let's Talk Tresses Friday: Touching Your Hair - Hands Off or Have At It?!?!?

2011-11-18T16:39:00.046-05:00

There has been a lot of talk lately about natural hair and more importantly, whether or not it's acceptable for strangers to touch it out of curiosity. Which, if you ask me, is more than a little bananas!

I personally have always been quite curious about breast implants (particularly how they feel in comparison to the real McBoob.).... never in my 34 years of life did that curiosity lead me to grab the chesticles of some poor unsuspecting woman on the street. Why haven't I? Because that would be an invasion of that woman's personal space... and guess what? So is reaching out and touching the hair of someone you don't know.

My philosophy has always been if we're cool and you want to touch my hair? Touch away, especially if I have lint or cigarette ash (it happens!) in it. If I've never laid eyes on you and don't know your name or astrological sign? Hands off, man! Don't ask me, because the answer will be a polite, but firm, "No."

I think that when we make it a racial issue, it makes people become closed to the argument, because they simply don't "get what the big deal is". When you express it as a matter of personal space and in terms of overstepping boundaries, it resonates more for people. Especially women who have been pregnant... because many pregnant women have the same argument when it comes to their tummies.

What are your thoughts on strangers touching your hair? Have you ever encountered a situation where someone reached out to get a good grab? How did you handle it?!? Let's Dish!

:::drools::: Leopard Print Lovelies for Fall...

2011-11-17T16:02:00.008-05:00

I never thought I'd be a woman that loved leopard, but I do. I really, really do. I attribute this love to Reiko of God's Favorite Shoes, I have drooled repeatedly over her leopard-accented ensembles, and inspired by her I purchased my first leopard accessory... a pair of leopard print ballet flats from Lane Bryant that I've worn with everything this fall.

And the timing couldn't be better, as this fall tons of celebrity fashionistas have been spotted this print in big and/or small ways. From Mary Kate Olsen, Jennifer Lopez, Beyonce, to Rihanna, these ladies have been rockin' leopard print.

Here are some fun and funky items that I'm sure will help bring out the animal in you!

Leopard Knit Blazer ($24.80, Forever 21)

Strapless Leopard Cocktail Dress ($250.00, Jibri)

Stop Staring Black Leopard Trim Off-Shoulder Dress ($149.50, Torrid)

Skinny Leopard Print Haircalf Belt ($32.90, eloquii by the limited)

David & Young Leopard Print Scarf ($18.00, Nordstrom)

Faux Leopard Fur Jacket ($109.00, Simply Be)

Leopard-Print Sweater Tunic ($44.94, Old Navy)

Apt. 9 Leopard Faux-Fur Belted Shopper ($44.80, Kohl's)

Coconuts by Matisse Josie Bootie ($70.99, Zappo's)

Animal Print Kaftan ($54.00, City Chic)

Are you rocking Leopard Print this season? Which of these goodies have caught your eye?

D-I-Y Nappturaliciously: Mixtress Magic - Oh Honey! Hot Oil Hair Treatment

2011-11-16T12:03:00.002-05:00

I've been dying to try a Honey Hot Oil Hair Treatment in my hair after hearing raves about it throughout the natural hair community. I was a bit skeptical at first, I must admit, but after reading up on the healing properties of honey, I was sold.

Honey is a humectant; it attracts and holds moisture. This makes it a good choice for damaged or dry hair. Incorporating a Honey Hot Oil Treatment can help return the natural shine and will add health to your hair.

Honey Hair Conditioner Recipe

Ingredients:
1/2 cup honey
2 to 4 TBS olive oil (depending on hair type, use lesser amount for oily hair)

Directions:
Mix together the olive oil and honey then massage well into your hair until evenly covered.
Cover your head with a shower cap and allow the honey treatment to set for 30 minutes or longer.

Wash & shampoo hair very well and rinse thoroughly.

Check out the fabulous ashiek118's video tutorial on the Honey Hot Oil Hair Treatment for a more in-depth tutorial.

Have you tried a Honey Hair Treatment? Be sure to leave a comment with your thoughts! I will be trying this in the upcoming weeks, so be sure to check out the blog for pictures and tales of my experience.

I'm REALLY Diggin': Sseko Design's Precious Metals Collection

2011-11-15T15:48:00.004-05:00

Earlier this year, I blogged about the wonderful women behind Sseko Designs, a company created to help facilitate the young women of Uganda continuing their educations. Shortly after my post, I purchased my first pair of sandals and promptly fell in love with them.

Sseko released their new collection yesterday that I had to share. The Precious Metals Collection, comes available in gold, copper and silver. These straps are sparkly and metallic and perfect for glitzy holiday outfits, and for those of you vacationing to warmer climates during the winter holidays, can you find a perfect way to add a bit of Christmas sparkle to the beach?!?!?

To check out the Precious Metals Collection, and all of the amazing sandals and straps Sseko Designs have to offer, visit their website at http://www.ssekodesigns.com/

Music Therapy with Miss Moon

2011-11-14T11:10:00.005-05:00

It's a new week, everybody!! This week's song choice for Music Therapy with a powerful one with a simple message: Wake Up and Live.

I hope that the soul-stirring sounds of Bob Marley will motivate you to make today and everyday the best day of your life.

One, two, three, four!

Wake up and live, y'all,
Wake up and live!
Wake up and live now!
Wake up and live!

Life is one big road with lots of signs,
So when you riding through the ruts, don't you complicate your mind:
Flee from hate, mischief and jealousy!
Don't bury your thoughts; put your vision to reality, yeah!

All together now:
Wake up and live (wake up and live, y'all),
Wake up and live (wake up and live),
wake up and wake up and live, yeah! (wake up and live now),
Wake up and (wake up and live) - wake up and live!
Rise ye mighty people, ye-ah!
There's work to be done,
So let's do it-a little by little:
Rise from your sleepless slumber! Yes, yeah! Yes, yeah!
We're more than sand on the seashore,
We're more than numbers.
All together now:
Wake up and live now, y'all!
(Wake up and live) Wake up and live!
Wake up and live, y'all!
(Wake up and live) Wake up and live now!
You see, one - one cocoa full a basket,
Whey they use you live big today: tomorrow you buried in-a casket.
One - one cocoa full a basket, yeah, yes!
Whey they use you live big today: tomorrow you bury in-a casket.

W'all together now:
(Wake up and live now!) Wake up and live! Oh! Yeah-eah!
(Wake up and live!) Uh!
(Wake up and live now!) Wake up and live!
(Wake up and live) Keep on playin'!
(Wake up and live, y'all) Uh! Yeah! Yeah!
(Wake up and live!)
(Wake up and live now!)
(Wake up and live!) Break it down!

Come on, man!
How is it feelin' over there?
(Wake up and live now) All right!
(Wake up and live!) Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah.
Uh!
Come on, man!
You gotta wake up and live!

Life is one big road with lots of signs, yes!
So when you riding through the ruts, don't you complicate your mind:
Flee from hate, mischief and jealousy!
Don't bury your thoughts; put your dream to reality, yeah!

W'all together now:
(Wake up and live, y'all)
(Wake up and live!) Wake up and live, yea-eah!
(Wake up and live now!)
(Wake up and live!)
Wake up and live now!
(Wake up and live) Wo-oh!
Wake up and live now!
Wake up and live

A Little [LISA STANSFIELD] for a Saturday Night

2011-11-12T20:10:00.022-05:00

Let me tell you about this song right here, which came out May of 1992. I used to sing this song like I meant every single word. You would've thought that my 14 year old self had been through some HEARTBREAK!!! LOL

I recently rediscovered this song as an adult, and I have to admit, I found myself clutching the air (you know that move singers do where they make a fist?) and singing along with Lisa Stansfield's "All woman", just like I did way back when. I hope all the ladies will join me in singing and all the men will give their ladies some exra love this Saturday night.

Let's Talk Tresses Friday: What #naturalhair FAIL Are You Still Regretting?

2011-11-11T19:00:00.013-05:00

Many seasoned naturals will agree that finding what works for your particular hair is trial and error... sometimes with an emphasis on the error.

You can read every new book on the subject, and lock yourself away for a week and watch nothing but the best YouTube Vloggers, but if you do something that is NOT good for your hair... you'll know.

I've mentioned my unfortunate DIY dye job in the past, and to this day I still reel over how much damage it (coupled with being very liberal with the blow outs) caused to my hair. It is by far the biggest fail of my natural hair journey, but I'm proud to say that I learned a great deal about my hair from the failure, and my hair has thanked me for listening to the message.

What has been the WORST thing you've done to your hair since going natural? What have you learned from the fail?

I Heart Her Hair: Elle Varner...

2011-11-10T14:32:00.002-05:00

What a breath of fresh air Elle Varner's video "Only Wanna Give It To You" is. Happy, soulful song....luscious, colorful clothes and some kick ass hair.

Yummm! A Bounty of Birthday-Ready Cupcakes!!!

2011-11-09T13:23:00.062-05:00

I's my birthday, y'all!!!!! I am 34 years old today, and I am very excited and optimistic about the next year of my life will bring me. I am old enough to not want a cake on my birthday, but I do wish to sink my teeth into a delicious, yummy cuppy cake sometime within the next several hours! LOL

To inspire me to manifest a delicious sweet treat for my birthday, I scoured the internet for some yummy nummy cupcake recipes that I would love to nibble on today!

German Chocolate Cupcake

Recipe Courtesy of Yum Sugar

Ingredients

Cake
1 cup sugar
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, preferably Dutch process
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Pinch of salt
2 large eggs
1/2 cup cold strong brewed coffee
1/2 cup buttermilk
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Ganache
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 pound imported semisweet chocolate, finely chopped
Nut Filling
2 large egg yolks
1/2 cup sugar
3/4 cup evaporated whole milk
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
1 cup coarsely shredded sweetened coconut (about 2 1/2 ounces)
1 cup coarsely chopped pecans (about 4 ounces), toasted
3/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Directions

Toast pecan pieces at 350°F for 8-10 minutes until fragrant. Keep a close watch and occasionally toss the pecans to ensure that they don't burn.

Make the cake: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Butter and flour a muffin pan. In a bowl, sift together the sugar, flour, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, coffee, buttermilk, and vanilla.
Beat the coffee mixture into the dry ingredients in 2 batches with an electric mixer on low speed. Beat in the butter. Pour the batter into the prepared muffin tin and bake for 8-12 minutes, or until a cake tester inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pan on a rack.

Meanwhile, make the ganache: In a small saucepan, bring the cream to a boil over moderately high heat. Remove from the heat and stir in the chocolate. Let stand for 1 minute, then whisk until smooth. Transfer the ganache to a bowl and refrigerate, stirring occasionally, until chilled and thickened, about 2 hours.

Make the nut filling: In a heavy medium saucepan, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar. Whisk in the evaporated milk and then the butter. Cook over moderate heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and lightly coats a spoon, about 10 minutes; do not let it boil.
Remove from the heat and stir in the coconut, pecans, and vanilla. Transfer to a bowl and let cool completely.

To fill the center of the cupcakes with nut filling, turn each cake upside down. Using your finger or a small spoon, carefully scoop out some of the cake to create a small hole. Gently insert the nut filling. Turn right side up.

Place on a cooling rack with either a pan underneath or wax paper to catch the extra ganache. If ganache is too hard, let it stand at room temperature and stir it briefly. Use a spoon to drizzle the ganache until the entire cupcake is covered. Place in a refrigerator or freezer to allow the ganache to set. Top each cupcake with a dollop of nut filling.

Coconut Cupcakes with Seven-Minute Frosting and Coconut Flakes

Recipe Courtesy of Martha Stewart

Ingredients

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup packed sweetened shredded coconut
6 ounces (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 1/3 cups sugar
2 large eggs, plus 2 large egg whites
3/4 cup unsweetened coconut milk
1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Seven-Minute Frosting
1 1/3 cups large-flake unsweetened coconut

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line standard muffin tins with paper liners. Whisk dry ingredients in a large bowl. Cream butter and sugar with a mixer until light and fluffy. Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating after each addition.

Reduce speed to low. Mix any remaining wet ingredients in a bowl if needed. Add dry ingredients to butter mixture in 3 additions, alternating with wet ingredients and ending with dry. Scrape sides of bowl. Divide batter among muffin cups, filling each 2/3 full.

Bake cupcakes until testers inserted into centers come out clean, about 20 minutes. Let cool in tins on wire racks. Once cupcakes are cool, mound frosting on tops. Sprinkle with unsweetened coconut. Serve immediately.

White Russian Cupcake

Recipe courtesy of Casey's Cupcakes, Cupcake Wars (Food Network)

Ingredients
2 1/2 cups cake flour
8 tablespoons vanilla instant pudding mix
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
5 whole eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup milk
1/4 cup half-and-half
3/4 cup butter
1 1/2 cups sugar
3 ounces sour cream
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 ounce coffee liqueur (recommended: Kahlua)
1 tablespoon mocha paste
Irish Cream Filling (recipe follows)
12 ounces Irish Buttercream (recipe follows)
Small chocolate pearls (recommended: Verona)
Chocolate cigarettes
Gold dust
Vodka
Directions
Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F. Prepare a cupcake pan with 24 cupcake liners.

Combine the cake flour, pudding mix, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in 1 medium bowl. Crack the eggs into a second bowl and add the vanilla extract. Measure the milk and half-and-half into a third bowl. In a 5-quart mixer with a paddle attachment, cream the butter until fluffy. Stop the mixer and scrape down the sides with a spatula. Turn the mixer on first speed, add the sugar, and mix until fluffy. Add the eggs 1 at a time. Scrape down the bowl. Add the sour cream and mayonnaise and incorporate completely. Scrape down the bowl. Add the dry ingredients, alternating with the wet. You will start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix the coffee liqueur and mocha paste into the batter until smooth and no lumps are present.

Using a 2-ounce ice cream scoop, scoop 2 ounces of batter into the cupcake liners. Bake for 18 minutes. Insert a skewer into the cupcake, if it comes out clean they are ready to be removed from the oven. Let cool for 20 minutes.

Scoop out the center of the cooled cupcakes with a melon baller. Fill a piping bag with Irish Cream Filling and cut a small hole at the end of the bag to allow the filling to be piped into the hollowed out center of cupcake. Fill all the cupcakes with about 1/2 ounce of filling.

To assemble: Place a round tip # 809 into a large piping bag. Fill the piping bag with Irish Buttercream. Generously pipe about 1 ounce buttercream onto each cupcake. Garnish each cupcake with 4 or 5 small chocolate pearls and a chocolate cigarette. Mix equal parts gold dust with vodka to make an edible gold paint. Using a small round brush, paint the ends of the chocolate cigarettes. The edible paint will dry leaving behind the gold dust.

This recipe was provided by professional chefs and has been scaled down from a bulk recipe provided by a restaurant. The Food Network Kitchens chefs have not tested this recipe, in the proportions indicated, and therefore, we cannot make any representation as to the results.

Irish Buttercream:
4 pounds butter, softened
8 ounces high ratio shortening (recommended: Sweetex)
8 cups confectioners' sugar, sifted
4 tablespoons vanilla extract
2 tablespoons lemon extract
1 tablespoon mocha paste
4 tablespoons cherry liqueur
2 ounces Irish liqueur (recommended: Bailey's Irish Cream)
1 1/2 ounces coffee liqueur (recommended: Kahlua)
1 tablespoon vodka
In a 5-quart mixer with the paddle attachment, cream the butter and shortening together. On first speed, add the sifted powdered sugar to the bowl in 3 parts. Let each part incorporate into the butter mixture before adding the next. After adding all the sugar, put the mixer on the fourth (highest) speed and mix for 8 to 10 minutes. The buttercream will begin to gain volume and look white and fluffy. Once you bring the buttercream to full volume, add the extracts and the mocha paste. Lastly, add the liqueurs and vodka and incorporate completely.

Cook's Note: The longer you let it mix, the more volume you will have. If the buttercream is airy and shows a lot of holes, add a small amount of warm water and mix well.

Irish Cream Filling:
8 ounces heavy cream
4 ounces Irish liqueur (recommended: Bailey's Irish Cream)
In a 5-quart mixer with the paddle attachment, add the heavy cream and whip to full volume. Add the Irish liqueur and, on first speed, fold in the liqueur until completely incorporated.

And last.... but most certainly not least.... the cupcake I need in my life today........ :::sighs dreamily:::

White Chocolate Cupcakes

Recipe Courtesy of AllRecipes.com

Ingredients

1 cup Ghirardelli Classic White Chocolate Chips
6 ounces Ghirardelli White Chocolate Baking Bar
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 1/2 cups granulated white sugar
3 large eggs
3/4 cup whole milk
3/4 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
4 large egg whites
1 cup granulated white sugar, plus
2 tablespoons granulated white sugar
1 cup unsalted butter at room temperature, plus
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line 14 cupcake molds or muffin tins with paper liners or spray with nonstick spray. Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

To make the cupcakes, in large bowl, beat the 3/4 cup butter and 1-1/2 cups sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until light. Add the 3 eggs, one at a time, scraping down the sides of the bowl between each addition. Stir together the milk, lemon juice, and the vanilla. On low speed, add half the milk mixture. Mix until incorporated; scrape down the sides of the bowl. Add the remaining milk mixture and the dry ingredients in the same manner. Divide the batter among the 14 cupcake molds.

Bake on the middle oven rack for about 15 minutes, or until a tester inserted in the center of the cupcakes comes out clean. Cool cupcakes in their pans for 10 minutes. Then unmold and cool on a wire rack.

To make the frosting, melt the white chocolate baking bar in the top of a double boiler, or in a heatproof bowl over barely simmering water, stirring occasionally until smooth. Cool to room temperature. While the chocolate is cooling, combine the egg whites and 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar in the bowl of an electric mixer. Place the bowl in a pot of simmering water so the water comes a third of the way up the bowl. Lightly whisk the egg whites just until hot to the touch, about 1-1/2 minutes.

Remove the bowl from the pot on whisk on high speed until very thick and cooled to room temperature, about 5 minutes. Decrease the mixer to medium-low speed and add the butter, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing the butter in before adding the next tablespoon. Add the melted white chocolate and vanilla and mix until smooth. Frost the top of each cupcake and sprinkle them with the white chocolate chips.

:::drools::: June Ambrose-style for Plus Size Fashionistas

2011-11-08T15:43:00.012-05:00

I am sure I am not the only fashion-loving woman in the world who finds June Ambrose the bee's knees. I am always bowled over by her seemingly effortless sense of style. I've actually been stalking this look since the spring and decided to dust it off and try to recreate it for plus size fashionistas. Here's what I came up with!

Tuxedo Jacket: Oyster Satin Collar Blazer ($71.99, Dorothy Perkins)
Camisole: Reverse Satin Cami ($12.99 - $17.99, One Stop Plus)
Pants: Leatherette Trim Skinny Pants ($22.80, Forever21)
Pumps: Women's Mossimo® Paisley Platform Pumps - Cobalt Blue ($29.99, Target)
Clutch: Jessica Simpson Lafayette Clutch ($70.99, Zappos)
Sunnies: Soul Wireless 36110 Purple Fashion Vintage Square Sunglasses ($18.15, Sears)

Complete this look with a bit of M·A·C's Ruby Woo and a killer smile and you'll be good to go!!!

Music Therapy with Miss Moon

2011-11-07T10:45:00.021-05:00

It's another Monday, and I am very excited that its the start of my birthday week. While the actual day falls on Wednesday, I plan on celebrating my 34th year of life in small ways throughout the next few days. And I start this with jamming out to a song I love that never ceases to motivate me.

So this week's song choice for Music Therapy with Miss Moon is a song that I hope will bring a ray of light (wink, wink) into the new week for all of us. I hope you all will enjoy "Ray of Light", courtesy of Madonna.

Ray of Light

Zephyr in the sky at night I wonder
Do my tears of mourning sink beneath the sun
She's got herself a universe gone quickly
For the call of thunder threatens everyone

And I feel like I just got home
And I feel
And I feel like I just got home
And I feel

Faster than the speeding light she's flying
Trying to remember where it all began
She's got herself a little piece of heaven
Waiting for the time when Earth shall be as one

And I feel like I just got home
And I feel
And I feel like I just got home
And I feel

Quicker than a ray of light
Quicker than a ray of light
Quicker than a ray of light

And I feel like I just got home
And I feel
And I feel like I just got home
And I feel

And I feel
Quicker than a ray of light
Then gone for
Someone else shall be there
Through the endless years

She's got herself a universe
She's got herself a universe
She's got herself a universe

And I feel

Quicker than a ray of light she's flying
Quicker than a ray of light I'm flying

A Little [PHYLLIS HYMAN] for a Saturday Night

2011-11-05T19:58:00.004-04:00

It's another Saturday night, and we're still in our time machine, revisiting some awesome ass music from the 1990s. Tonight's song first dropped September of 1991, and its from someone who left us too damn soon. I hope you all will join me in remembering Phyllis Hyman, and her song, "Don't Wanna Change the World"

Let's Talk Tresses Friday: What's the BEST/WORST #naturalhair advice you ever received?

2011-11-04T14:35:00.002-04:00

Perhaps I'm alone here, but ever since I've rocked my natural hair, I've been approached with tons of unsolicited advice about how to maintain and improve my hair. Some of it has been good, I admit it... but some of it has been SUPERBAD, like the movie! LOL

I personally have been given advice that has proven the be immensely valuable (Vatika Oil, anyone?!?!),but I've also have heard home remedies that my My Mama and her Mama have tried and discovered wasn't worth a damn.

What has been your experiences with advice about your natural hair? What have been the gems of wisdom you've received? What advice was definitely a "let's not and say we did?"?!?!

:::drools::: Awesome Outerwear!!!

2011-11-02T15:46:00.047-04:00

How crazy was it that the Northeast got their first snowfall in October!?!?!?!? I don't know about all of you who were effected, but as I looked outside my window this past weekend and spied the flurries coming down at a rapid speed, I thought to myself "Damn... I'm unprepared for winter!!!" LOL

So in the event some of you (like me) are still scouting Outerwear for colder weather, I have found an assortment of coats that will keep you warm and make you look HAWT at the same time!!!!!

Asos Curve Ovoid Coat In Black And Orange Check ($179.70, Asos)

Long Wool Pattern Coat ($159.00, Avenue)

Tweed Babydoll Coat ($199.95, Lane Bryant)

Wool Coat By Taillissime ($149.99 - $169.99, One Stop Plus)

Belted Cape ($50.00, SimplyBe)

I have to admit.. if I had the money, I'd be rocking them all this winter. Unfortunately I do not roll like that financially, so I will be making my pick for the one I want. Has any of these coats caught your eye? Which one is your favorite? Leave a message with your choice!!

maniCURATIVE: Black & Grey River Rock Inspired Nails

2011-11-01T15:47:00.054-04:00

It's been awhile since I've brought you a maniCURATIVE post, I know. I've been pretty lazy when it comes to my nails, and haven't done something that made me especially excited lately.... until recently.

On a whim, I decided to use my two recent nail polish purchases together, and upon surveying the finished product, I was instantaneously reminded of river rocks, which I've always found quite lovely. I love the shades of black and grey.

Here's what I used:

Step One: Fill the Gap! Smoothing Base Coat
Step Two: Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure in Gray by Gray and
Avon Matte Nail Enamel in Black as Night
Step Three: Seche Vite Dry-Fast Top Coat

I start with applying a coat of my go-to base coat to my clean, buffed nails. The Salon Hansen Complete Salon Manicure has a base and top coat included, but I still added my own, because I know it will work.

I applied two coats of Gray by Gray to every nail, except my ring finger and thumbnail....

On those nails, I applied two coats of Black as Night and let them get slightly dry.

To finish it up I apply a coat of my handy dandy Seche Vite Top Coat and let it dry completely.

What do you think? I've been watching loads of video tutorials for nail designs on YouTube, so this may not be the last nail post for the year... be on the look out! :)

Music Therapy with Miss Moon

2011-10-31T11:12:00.000-04:00

What better way to celebrate a new week (AND Halloween!!!) then by doing the Time Warp?!?! It is just a jump to the left, after all!!! Enjoy, and go easy on the pelvic thrusts... you could pull something!!! LOL

Time Warp

RiffRaff:
It's astounding;
Time is fleeting;
Madness takes its toll.
But listen closely...

Magenta:
Not for very much longer.

RiffRaff:
I've got to keep control.

I remember doing the time-warp
Drinking those moments when
The Blackness would hit me

Magenta:
And the void would be calling...

Transylvanians:
Let's do the time-warp again.
Let's do the time-warp again.

Narrator:
It's just a jump to the left.

All:
And then a step to the right.

Narrator:
Put your hands on your hips.

All:
You bring your knees in tight.
But it's the pelvic thrust
That really drives you insane.
Let's do the time-warp again.
Let's do the time-warp again.

Magenta:
It's so dreamy, oh fantasy free me.
So you can't see me, no, not at all.
In another dimension, with
voyeuristic intention,
Well secluded, I see all.

RiffRaff:
With a bit of a mind flip

Magenta:
You're into the time slip.

RiffRaff:
And nothing can ever be the same.

Magenta:
You're spaced out on sensation.

RiffRaff:
Like you're under sedation.

All:
Let's do the time-warp again.
Let's do the time-warp again.

Columbia:
Well I was walking down the street
just a-having a think
When a snake of a guy gave me an
evil wink.
He shook-a me up, he took me by surprise.
He had a pickup truck, and the
devil's eyes.
He stared at me and I felt a change.
Time meant nothing, never would again.

All:
Let's do the time-warp again.
Let's do the time-warp again.

Narrator:
It's just a jump to the left.

All:
And then a step to the right.

Narrator:
Put your hands on your hips.

All:
You bring your knees in tight.
But it's the pelvic thrust
That really drives you insane.
Let's do the time-warp again.
Let's do the time-warp again.

Side Note: I've always loved this Afro Sistah with the Pirate Hat.. she's dope!!! :)

HAPPY HALLOWEEN, EVERYBODY!!!

A Little [TONY! TONI! TONÉ!] for a Saturday Night

2011-10-29T19:30:00.002-04:00

Yay!! The weekend is here, and I've decided to take you all back on a trip to the 90s with me... no tricked out Deloreon required!!!

Now through the end of the year I will be sharing some of my favorite videos from the decade, songs that I remember blasting on my little purple casio boombox on Saturday nights like this one.

Tonight's video, which debuted December of 1990 was actually directed by Pirate Freeda Bandita herself... Lilakoi Moon (The artist formerly known as Lisa Bonet). I hope you all will enjoy, "It Never Rains (in Southern California)", by Tony! Toni! Toné!.

If you have a suggestion for a 90s song that would be perfect for a Saturday Night, be sure to leave a comment with your pick! :)

Let's Talk Tresses Friday: Is Henna HEAVENLY to Your Hair?!?!

2011-10-28T15:02:00.019-04:00

After my recent introduction to henna, courtesy of Lush's Caca Noir, I must admit that my hair has been feeling like 100 bucks. Washing my hair the following week resulted in less shedding, easy-as-pie detangling, and hair that looks and FEELS more healthy. I am definitely singing the praises of henna, and will be incorporating henna rinses into my hair regimen.

Does henna make you go, "HOLLA!!"? Leave a comment and testify (and share some of your favorite recipes, too!!).

I Heart Her Hair: Esperanza Spalding

2011-10-27T14:47:00.021-04:00

Esperanza Spalding is such an accomplished musician and a woman that has brought such a much-needed breath of fresh air to the industry, it seems almost criminal to just focus on her hair. But I am a fan of her fro, and it is as lovely as she is... so I'm going for it! LOL

:::drools::: Solange Knowles-style for Plus Size Fashionistas

2011-10-26T11:59:00.000-04:00

Oh, Sol-Angel... why must you tempt me so? LOL

Every time I swear to myself that under no circumstances will I recreate another of her looks for the rest of year, she comes up with a look that makes me go "Yesssssss!!!!!". And from there, I can't fight it.

I spotted this picture of Solange shopping in New York City with the familia and was bowled over by how comfy/chic the look was... and if you all know one thing about me by now, it's that I'm ALL ABOUT the comfy/chic!!! Here's my interpretation of her look:

Top: Women's Plus Cowl-Neck Tops in Crimson and Clover ($26.94, Old Navy)
Skirt: Jessica London Pencil Skirt in Animal Print ($49.99 - $54.99, One Stop Plus)
Bag: GUESS Fallon Small Carryall in Cognac Multi($118.00, Macy's)
Shoes: Women's Bianca Ankle Strap Flat in Tan ($24.99, Payless)
Sunnies: Brown/Brown Sunglasses ($5.80, Forever 21)

If you have an outfit you'd like me to try to recreate for plus size fashionistas, drop me a line via email, Twitter, or on the Miss Moon's Musings Facebook page.

DIY Nappturaliciously: Lush Caca Noir Product Review

2011-10-25T16:45:00.002-04:00

I've been flirting with the idea of coloring my hair for the past few years now. What has stopped me is the mere fact that my hair starts breaking when I linger in the hair color aisle at my local Duane Reade for too long... it's THAT sensitive. lol

Inspired by the lovely Sophia of Kiffe Coco, I decided to try henna for the first time, and snatched up some of Lush's Caca Noir Mama. Henna and indigo are mixed together for this particular blend, and its the darkest of Lush's four henna colour blocks, leaving hair with a blue/black sheen in time. Bowled over by Sophia's results, I knew I had to try it for myself.

I first separated the blocks to make it easier to chop up. I used three squares in total, which was plenty for my hair.

I've read that its recommended that the bars be shredded using a cheese grater, but I managed chopping them into semi-small pieces.

I filled a pot with water and brought to a boil. I then took some of the water and mixed it with the chopped up henna in a heat safe glass bowl.

I added some Dabur Amla oil to the mixture and placed the bowl over the post with the rest of the boiling water.

This helped the mixture go from this (Ewwww... lol)....

To this!!! Once I took it off the pot to cool, the color went from "baby ca ca" green to a very deep dark brown/black. After I was certain that it was cool, I rushed to my newspaper-lined bathroom to begin applying the henna to my hair.

My hair was divided into four sections, so I just separated and gently detangled (using my Tangle Teezer & water) each section before adding the mud-like mixture.

The bars actually come with these really cute blue "Rocky Horror Picture Show" rubber gloves, but I ended up using these industrial gloves I scored from Duane Reade, the tread on the finger tips made rubbing the henna through my hair a snap!

I covered my hair in a showercap, and set out to let the henna sit in my hair for at least 4 hours... fast forward to the next morning! LOL Yep, I fell asleep!

Rinsing the henna out was actually super easy. My hair was still separated into four sections, so I just rinsed each section until the water ran clear. I followed up the rinsing with a co-wash using Yes To Cucumbers Color Care Conditioner

Once the conditioner was rinsed out, I was astonished by the shine and curl definition. My hair wasn't exactly blue black, but it was slightly darker and the difference was subtle, which I liked.

I braided my hair as usual and went about my chores for the rest of the weekend, not knowing that by the end of the upcoming week, I'd be sick as a dog. I wish the results on my dry hair were a bit more va-va-va-voom, but they were taken upon my release from the hospital, so my hair was a bit of a mess! LOL

All-in-all, I thought the experience was a lot less time-consuming than I anticipated, and can honestly say the results are worth the efforts!

Have you tried Lush's Caca Noir? Please leave a comment with your experience!