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 There are plenty last minute shoppers and also those who start their early shopping the day after Christmas, for the following year. Either way, gift-giving is a year-round act of kindness.


The Holiday season seems like one mega event, once Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years’ rolls around. For company parties, secret Santa, stocking stuffers etc. Buying for the coffee, tea or cocoa lover, can be super easy and what goes good with your favorite beverage? A motivational mug, of course.
Click here for the, Do It With Passion Mug, $14.99.

T-shirts remain a crowd favorite among dads, brothers and nephews alike and ladies love nice quotes to motivate and bring joy to their day. They come in handy for those low-key or workout days. Click here to order the, Do It With Passion T-shirt, $21.99.


Available in a variety of sizes and colors. Sweatshirts are just right for the cooler months. Click here to order the, Do It With Passion Sweatshirt, $34.99. 

   
**LIMITED TIME ONLY!!** GET IT BEFORE TIME RUNS OUT. Available until Dec. 28th. FLASH SALE!!

For more motivational items, topics, and discounts. Visit www.decorgreetings.com (or click here) to sign up for the Décor Greetings VIP List for even bigger discounts, giveaways, and more. Happy shopping and Happy Holidays.

Thanks for visiting,
Xoxo


Hello everyone, hope you all had a great holiday break and started the first couple weeks of the New Year off with a bang! Now this POWERBALL fever, on the other hand, has truly taken over, and rightfully so, as the highest amount & payout in Lottery history! You would have to live under a rock not to notice the most talked about hottest topic around. Millions of daydreamers sigh at the thought of endless possibilities if they had the winning ticket. I’ve heard my share of stories and many laughs at how some would act and what others would do.

For those dishing out hundreds of dollars for Powerball quick picks, hey more “power” to you and those who said they’ll randomly pass out a $100 dollar bill as they walk down the street…. Umm, can’t be any different than hearing certain athletes or entertainers actually burning 100’s in the club, just because they have it to burn. Winning might feel as if you have to leave earth, lol, but those choosing to leave the country initially then later return to a less chaotic scene may not be a bad idea.

As of now, the Lottery is on an upwards of 1.5 Billion Dollars and growing. Tonight’s drawing (Wed) will either make a person(s) an instant Billionaire landing in Forbes Magazine or it’ll have more people scrambling to spend, play & pray like they’ve never done so hard before. I won’t rain on your parade with talks of “you have a better chance of _______ than hitting the lottery.”  No negative Nancy here, if the Oprah’s, Bill Gates, Steve Jobs (RIP), Warren Buffets and other royal dignitaries can walk the earth and survive, then your newly found fame can have you living a secluded good life as well. That is, once the proper trusted people are in place to help you sort things out.

Get ready for a new tax bracket and all the investors, distant relatives, ongoing phone calls, letters/emails, people approaching with numerous sob stories, unwanted visitors etc. It’s a lot I know but breathe…. gathering your thoughts and think of those close around you. Paying tithes, giving to charitable causes and other philanthropic acts are important because we know the material homes, cars, trips, kid’s college tuition and whatnots will be taken care of.

Just remember, you can’t win if you don’t play and whether you’re the luckiest person holding the ticket or the one holding a 1.5 Billion dollar problem, stay humbled with plenty of gratitude. As they say, “To whom much is given, much is required.”  Take a deep breath because today could be the day! Good Luck!



Hello 2016! Although we’re meeting for the first time, yet another year has returned for a visit. This is the time to really get things in gear with a new  start, new ideas, positive changes and whatnots. Having a resolution is fine but many people don’t complete their list by years end. Sad to say that I’m one of those people as well, so I’ve made it a point to not pressure myself.

Accomplishing several goals for yourself within a deadline which may help you stick to a better schedule. Instead of going on a quick diet for the New Year, only to quickly gain it back later, decide making healthier choices that may result in a better lifestyle. Before you know it you’ll look and feel so much better.  

Be strong, find the courage to do things you’ve always wanted to try or do…no matter what others may think or say. Let 2016 be the year where FEAR is not invited and doesn’t fit in your lifestyle. Try as much as you can and if it doesn’t happen right at that moment, don’t quit! It might not be the right time or still more things to do. Things happen when they are meant to, make it happen by creating it into existence.

I love seeing a person’s success and try to motive those who could use it. You’ll be surprised how simple kind words, a smile or greeting someone changes not only someone's day, but could brighten your day in return. It’s a great feeling when I give compliments to others and being helpful, I’ve help brainstorm ideas with plenty of people, lol. The more good you give out the more good will return to you.  So by all means, rack up them Karma Points by putting good out in the world.

Take care of yourself and surround yourself with great people and support system. The truest ones will uplift, encourage and give good constructive criticism while others rather pull you down, chuckle at your ideas etc. If you have a side-line hater in your circle maybe 2016 is the year to cut some ties with certain people around you. But, on the flipside, if you’re the sideline hater, do yourself a favor, be kind to all. Everyone deserves love and respect (unless the situation is not fixable then you have to move on from that person) so treat everyone as such. Bully’s are not in style, lol, humble yourself watch more greatness come into your life.

Editor,
Sonya xo

 
I took a little break from my smoothies for about a week and opt for fresh juicing instead. Every so often I love creating nutritious juices. One day I found myself at Whole Foods (love that place) after walking some laps (the weather was beautiful that day). I headed to the juice bar section, chose a made-to-order cold-pressed juice and grabbed a ready-made one also from their refrigerated area. The individual juice sizes are 12oz ($4.99) and 16oz ($5.99). Feel free to create your own juice but I ordered from the menu.

(Left) Rise and Shine (Apples, Grapes, Mango, Pineapple and Ginger). This juice was one of the sweetest of the selection, not too sweet but had the right balance to it. The Ginger didn’t over-power the juice but your pallet definitely knew it was there.

(Right) Green Lemonade (Apples, Spinach, Kale, Lemon and Celery). If you’re not use to a fruit/veggie-blend green drink then it might be an acquired taste for some. For me, as long as a hint of sweetness is present then I love it. This is actually one of my favorites. I’ve learned that depending on who whips up your juice, the taste may slightly vary. My Green Lemonade was slightly sweeter from one location than another. The person may have added a few more slices of apple or whatnot. If not sure, ask for a sample. They're always helpful running down health benefits while you are sampling.

I noticed a physically-fit woman ordering a shot of wheatgrass but added Cayenne Pepper sprinkled on top. Talk about spicy, lol! I didn’t blame her when she asked for a couple samples as a chaser. What a trooper, lol! One day I might build up enough courage to take a Wheatgrass shot, but minus the Cayenne Pepper, I’m just not there quite yet, lol.
Eye Opener (Apple, Carrot and Orange). A great one for those who seek a fairly simple sweet drink. The label on this drink read, “This product has not been pasteurized and therefore may contain harmful bacteria that can cause serious illness in children, the elderly and persons with weakened immune systems.” When juicing or consuming fresh juices, it’s best to drink, once made, to get the best nutrients and may keep refrigerated. Also, be sure to check the label on your selections.
I can’t wait to juice some of these mixes at home. You can still get nutrients via fruits/veggies even if you do not own a juicer. A blender is just as good with its smoothie/milkshake consistency. I love adding my favorite vitamins (tablets) to my smoothie by crushing them in a sandwich bag then adding it to my blender ready to blend up my drink. For those who do not own neither, juicer or blender, you never can go wrong with consuming fresh produce in its natural form.  Organic is the best but cost a little more, so if you choose fruits/veggies that are not organic be sure to wash them thoroughly.   

When I’m working on my laptop I love the quick convenience of having a healthy drink handy to consume. It beats prepping the fruits/veggies which can be a mess but the end goal and final results are more than worth it.

Healthy lifestyle changes goes a long way and over time your body will surely thank you for all the choices you’ve committed to.
I wonder what other great flavors I may like? I’ll try other drinks so until then,     
Here’s to your health! Xoxo 
 
 
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Hey guys! Just giving you a little drive by to mention that you can follow me on BLOGLOVIN as well. This is a great time to wish you and your family a Happy Thanksgiving. Whew, time flies don’t it?! I appreciate the continued love, support, comments and lovely people I’ve gotten to know and even met through my blog (Urban Crush). My blog welcomes everyone with open arms and focus on all things: ENTERTAINMENT-LIFESTYLE-BEAUTY-HOME DÉCOR-MOTIVATION-FOOD and so much more! Have a safe holiday and enjoy your weekend everyone. - Xoxo
 

Motivation: Self Care
Life’s good, everything’s good! By keeping that constant reminder in the forefront will prove that all things will turn out fine. Stop all negativity in its tracks! It’s a new day and a new week which, will you look at the time, another new year among us.

Oprah has mentioned many times before that she writes in her Gratitude journal daily, many people do and ever since I can remember, I’ve always had diaries, journals, you name it. It’s such a free therapeutic high of some sort to write out your thoughts and feelings. All of your emotions flow onto the pen and then the paper…I love writing. It’s refreshing when you can reflect more clearly and view things for what it’s worth by looking back on your past and your “now showing” present.
 
Take care of yourself
I thrive off great energy, positivity, much love and plenty laughter. Enter happiness. What I’ve learned…and it’s a must, to have more love for yourself so you’re able to give some to others. You can’t give something you don’t have when you’re totally empty inside. Life happens and everything in it can weigh you down so it’s crucial to make sure you take care of you as well.

 

 Benefits of Vitamin (pictured)
B12 (along with Folate) aid in cell development & maintenance, deficiency can lead to a form of anemia. Found in eggs, milk cheese, meat etc.
Vitamin A (Retinol) aids in healthy skin. Found in natural fats; whole milk, butter etc. Aid in vision (in dim light) and many more benefits.
Zinc Associated with protein, found in nuts, wholegrains, meat, dairy etc. Helps healing of wounds.
Vitamin D3 Supports teeth, bone and immune health. Sunlight on the skin gives Vitamin D but can be found in oily fish, egg yolks, milk etc.
**************************************************************
At times we go so hard for others and forget about ourselves in the process.
Many may depend on you, especially if you’re the number one top person who sets the tone/pace for all things per your family. Plenty of prayer, meditation, music, healthy eating, daily nutrients and exercise is a great start. Oh and can’t forget the much needed laughter via great friends and family. Also, throw in a resort or a spa day to round things out.  

 
It’s ok to take a step or two back, slow down and pause. View all aspects of your life and the people in it. You might realize certain things need to be rearranged or even cut out completely. In the end make sure you are truly honest with yourself because after all, it starts with you. Rome wasn’t built in a day so making baby steps in the right direction will get things going. Just a spark of motivation is needed to push forward and we all can benefit from that. Find your peace and inspiration then grow, believe me things will come into focus real quick, lol. Wishing you all a prosperous life. Until next time! –xoxo
 
Feeling overloaded with a lot on your plate? How will you start taking care of yourself? Let me know in the comment below.
***Photos take via Urban Crush are noted***
 

 

Delicious Scents
There’s nothing like a great scent to get your senses going, huh?! I like to keep several candles on deck in my favorite spaces around the house. When I’m working on my laptop while trying to be creative, the fragrance from a burning candle helps set the tone in my environment. A cup of coffee or tea is always nearby as well, lol. When it comes to smells, I’m such a girlie girl, lol, yeah the body spray, body butters, etc. I do all that! Since this is the season of gift giving and sharing, I want to share a couple items that may be great.

I live in many places so Michaels and Hobby Lobby are just two of many places that I find myself in for hours at a time. I purchased several things but when I came across HAVEN AROMATICS I noticed they had a great selection of scented items. It was a tough choice, but I settled on:

                                                         
Lavender Vanilla Scented Candle
What I like about this candle is as soon as the top is off the smell lights up the room and when burned, the aroma flows throughout so quickly. Always a plus in my book and even better after a long day burning while you soak in a nice hot bubble bath.

Pink Grapefruit Hibiscus Hand Lotion
This lotion is just the right sweet fruity/flower balance. If you take a deep smell and close your eyes you get the delicious sensation…..no not of a York Peppermint Pattie, lol, but the sensation that you are standing in either Bath and Body Works or the scented section in Victoria Secrets. Really good stuff!



Do you have a favorite scented candle or lotion you like to share? Maybe one that truly get your day started or make you function better? Music at low volume does it for me also while I’m working, lol but that’s another post. Thanks for allowing me to share my little tidbit. Have a good one! Xoxo

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Photo: Urban Crush  



Kickstart your week by taking your dietary supplements daily and try including fresh Garlic and Ginger as an extra bonus. Throughout the year I mince about 1 Teaspoon of each in its fresh form but now that fall weather entered the scene, I try to take it 2-3 times per month. Sometimes both or at different times.

The Benefits

Both in the same family, they carry powerful cleansing anti-inflammatory properties. Both can aid your immune system against colds and flu, if taken regularly. It’s great for boosting your metabolism which can help burn fat; a win win situation. Garlic is known to help reduce plaque in arteries and aid blood clots. Not a fan of taking it in raw form, adding it to your meals when cooking is a great alternative.

I’ve got use to mincing a spoonful (about 1-2 cloves) with water/juice/green tea nearby to wash it down and I’m done. Remember, both Ginger and Garlic is hot when eaten raw so don’t let it sit in your mouth too long. Also, because it’s minced so tiny/fine, no need to chew it….at least I don’t. Garlic is available in pill/capsule form.

(FYI: Many hair companies make garlic formulated shampoo/conditioners which helps stimulates the scalp resulting in stronger hair and fight scalp infection such as ringworm. Used over time can improve the condition of your hair/scalp.)

As for Ginger, I love using it in my Asian meals. This can be taken raw and also available in capsule and tea form as well. Through my research, I found that it helps the colon by removing waste and toxins that accumulated in the walls of the colon. BUT, this should be avoided if a person have ulcers, which I read that can worsen the condition, check with your doctor if you are not sure or to learn more.

Stay healthy and safe XOXO

DISCLAIMER: I am not a doctor and taking Garlic and Ginger may be ok with some but not be suitable for others. Your physician will know your medical history, so always check before trying new/certain things.

SHEPHERD’S PIE (Highly Requested)
A great way to start November off, with hearty one-pot meals and casseroles. Recently I made my Shepherd’s Pie and shared a pic on social media, well since then many have requested the recipe. So, I decided to share it with you all and hope you enjoy it as much as my household.
(Tip: This recipe has many steps, so cut down on time by Prep/chop/peel ingredients before you begin. A long process but oh so well worth it in the end.)
 
INGREDIENTS
(Meat mixture)
1 lb ground turkey
1 lb ground beef
½ cup onion (chopped)
2 cloves garlic (chopped)
2 Tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp pepper
1 tsp salt
2 Tbsp thyme
¼ cup Worcestershire Sauce
1 cup beef broth
1 15oz can corn
1 cup frozen peas & carrots (or 1- 15oz can mixed veggies) I used 1 cup carrots & skipped Peas

(Potatoes)
4 large potatoes (Idaho, Russet etc. your choice)
3 Tbsp butter
½ -1 cup milk or whipping cream (mix in a little at a time to get desired consistency)
Sprinkle of Salt
Sprinkle of pepper
2 tsp garlic powder
2 cups shredded cheese (your choice)

DIRECTIONS
Again, start by chopping onions, garlic, and carrots (if using fresh), set aside.  Peel potatoes and boil in salt water, medium-high heat.

(Note: I pre-steamed fresh baby carrots to cut down on cooking time. Steam by using steam bag in microwave or place carrots in covered-dish with little water on stove or microwave).

While potatoes boil, brown ground beef (on medium heat) about 5 minutes. When almost done, drain grease then add ground turkey and cook a few minutes until meat mixture brown. Drain any excess grease.
Add onion and garlic, cook a few minutes until onions are translucent. Lower heat then mix in garlic powder, pepper, salt, and thyme. Add tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce and beef broth. Mix thoroughly then add carrots and corn. Simmer 5-7 minutes, be sure to stir to avoid sticking. Turn off heat, set aside.


After about 15 mins check potatoes for tenderness, if done, drain and mash. (Note: avoid over- boiling potatoes so they’re not too mushy) Add butter, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder.
Spread meat mixture in bottom of a 13x9 baking dish, top with 1 cup shredded cheese.
Smooth mash potatoes over meat and cheese. Lastly, top with remaining shredded cheese. Bake uncover 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes. Remove, let sit for 10-15 minutes. Cut and serve. Enjoy.

6-8 Servings (depending on slices)

This is a filling meal but adding salad on the side will round it out as well. Sometimes I switch up by adding peas or other veggies. You can use frozen, fresh or can. (Remember: the meat mixture is supposed to be hearty and thick, so adding a little more chopped veggies or an extra potato will make a great deep dish)

I want to thank all the lovely people who “LIKED, COMMENTED” about this dish and “REQUEST” the recipe. Let me know if you’re planning on trying it. Thanks for stopping by and be blessed!


 
*****ALL PHOTOS: Urban Crush*****
 

When my kitchen tools and appliances grow, I find myself rearranging my space. I wanted a better organizational system that works best for me. I found a few items that were more convenient with the clean simple organized look I was going for. Here are a few solutions.

Starting with that dreadful eye sore of a junk drawer that most of us has had at some point in our lives. We gather so much in our miscellaneous drawer as time goes on and boy it can get pretty bad, lol.
Whoa, just by clearing out drawers, see what a difference a little organization makes. I took several acrylic bins in various sizes and positioned them in the drawer. Whether you’re a family or you find yourself grabbing fast food frequently, accumulating packets of condiments does not seem overwhelming when you have a mini-system in place.

It’s easy to toss out whatever you don’t use, but for those who go heavy on the sauce/seasoning etc. then saving those little packets always come in handy. I love arranging several of my favorite teas and other small whatnots.

I was in love when I ran across this wire basket with side handles. The basket have a removable divider where you can set smaller packets of whatnots. I decided my hot chocolate packages of cocoa and instant oatmeal were a perfect fit. So much can be done with this. It makes a great storage for makeup, perfume and/or hair tools/accessories as well.
I also picked up some clear acrylic containers. Although this was just the right size for spaghetti or your favorite pasta, I thought it would make a great container for snacks/sweets that aren’t individually wrapped. A better presentation than the original package or box it came in.

This other container is great for grabbing quick on-the-go packaged snack. Adding labels bring everything together, nice and neat.

The next time you head to the kitchen or pantry to get a snack, your choice may become simpler by seeing the goodies on display. The kids or grandkids will really enjoy it, giving true meaning of a kid in a candy store, lol, and you'll appreciate the simple organization it brings to your space.

If you like this post or want to see more home décor post, please LIKE, SHARE or COMMENT. Do you have any storage/container ideas to make your space pretty or simple? Let me know below. 
Thanks for stopping by. XoXo Let’s connect!

*****ALL PHOTOS: URBAN CRUSH*****