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Photo: Urban Crush
Turmeric is a wonder herb/spice that has numerous health benefits and it’s used in various cooking recipes. It’s highly used in Asia and India as a spice in cuisines but, many feel as if this herb can contribute to, if not cure, many health problems. Let’s take a look of some of the benefits of what this natural spice does.

In my research, I’ve learned that the chemical compound of curcumin is what packs the magical medicinal properties of this herb- which by the way is in the Ginger family and often found in curry. It’s known to have anti-inflammatory and pain reliever agents. It is great to try for those suffering from arthritis. Some reports that it provides relief from bacterial infections as well as fever. It’s said that consuming it frequently helps keep various tumors/cancers at bay. As Turmeric Root, it is highly pungent and because of its strong taste many consume it in dishes or in various tea recipes.

It is also know to be great for the skin; acne, stretch marks, bruises, glowing and clear skin. If external, use as a pasted, various recipes can be researched and it can be consume internal. Either way will result in great benefits. Also, great for coughs and colds, being that it plays a role in boosting your immunity system. This herb has many contributions to other ailments that you can learn about through extensive research.   

A little goes a long way, and I personally take this herb as a capsule 1-2 times per day (500 mg). I purchased mine at Walmart but can be purchased at drug & grocery stores, also online. I first stumbled upon this by accident. I was reading health articles and came across a topic on this herb and researched it as well as checked the reviews. I realized this was the same empty-space-on-the-shelf herb that was never there when I stocked up on my vitamins. I figured it must work well since it’s always sold out. Not trying to sound like an infomercial, but I actually noticed a change in my appetite in a matter of days. It actually suppressed my appetite and boosted my metabolism. I noticed a few pounds fall off, and I was really excited, so for those who are big snack-eaters, this one’s for you, lol.

As with any vitamin, mineral, herb etc. check with your doctor or pharmacist before consuming this herb about any side effects etc. Some may be allergic to this or taking other medications that does not mix well with this. I personally didn’t have any side effects, but everyone is different.

I mentioned this to a couple people who had great results with it as well. Here’s to the SPICE OF LIFE!  

Have you tried it and if so, did it worked for you?
 
I love home décor everything! Whether driving around viewing spectacular homes and their landscapings to the smallest details of matching towels, cookware etc. I’m lovin’ it. I recently watched an episode of HGTV’s Million Dollar Rooms….can you say “BLOWN AWAY”. I honestly can say those homes and rooms were too much square footage for me, but would gladly take an order of a mini version instead, lol. Inspiration for decorating ideas can be found anywhere- television, magazines, art and photos. Here are a few spaces that I really fell in love with or should I say, I had a Crush on them. UC
West Coast Palace in the California Hills

 
 Wine Cellar Closet holds 750 Bottles of Wine and Champagne
Climate Control Garage
Ancient Artifacts Art Imported from Thailand

Zen Luxe Man Cave Sanctuary
 
Urban Loft Upstairs Catwalk

Urban Loft (downstairs)
 
Downstairs Wine Room




 
Sunken Spa Bath with His and Her Walkin Closets
 
Desert Mansion (Rear-view) Palm Springs
 
Yes, the is what one would call the good life. Live Out Loud is all that keeps ringing in my ears. Now, couldn't you imagine yourself in any one of the spaces above?!?!... I'm aware that a beach or tropical island is not listed but with the right ambiance you can party it up while entertaining guests, have a romantic retreat or some much needed rest and relaxation. All in all, this can inspire ideas for your next weekend home project. A trip to Home Depot or your fav furniture store can always start a spark as well.
To view more designs, get inspiration and ideas click on this link--> www.hgtv.com  Happy Decor (Designing)!!
 
What is your designing style or favorite room in your house?  
                                               
****CREDIT: ALL PICS PROPERTY OF HGTV.COM****  


July 1st 2009, the place, Philips Arena in Atlanta, GA. Awaiting Beyonce to take the stage at her “I AM” concert, as a birthday surprise to my daughter. The lights go out, everything is pitch black only hearing a sea of screams. On a half-lit stage stood Beyonce's opening act, a quartet, looking like a Destiny Child’s protégé, all with very strong vocal range and great dance moves. The group is Richgirl and their song “He Aint Wit Me Now (Tho)” is full of energy and laced with hard beats, my favorite in all of their 15 minute stage set. As the arena vibrated the crowd danced; many bobbin their heads to the beat, I remembered leaning over to my daughter asking “Have you heard of this group?” She responded “no”, But as soon as they would arrived on the scene, a few short-lived years later they would unofficially disband for reasons unforeseen.

 
Sevyn Streeter (of ex-girl group Richgirl) is also a talented songwriter who kept the creative juices flowing post Richgirl. Tina Davis, who managed Richgirl also manage Chris Brown. One day working separately in studios across from one another she noted to Chris that she writes and would be interested in writing with him. That encounter turned into three years of working with Chris. You may have heard her background lead vocals on Chris Browns' “F.A.M.E” and “Fortune” albums as well as Trey Songz’ “Without A Woman” single and a list of other artists, adding her beautiful harmonic tone. She’s penned for Brandy, Alicia Keys, Kelly Rowland and various artists.
Signed to Atlantic Records, Sevyn is currently working on her album while radio has her first single, “I Like It” hitting the airwaves. Check out the video…



This talented singer/songwriter has a bright career and definitely one to watch. I'm sure fans can't wait to hear Sevyn's solo album and who she collaborated with. Find out more about this artist, click this link~~~>www.sevynstreeter.com
What's your thoughts about this song or the artist?
 
**He Aint Wit Me Now (Tho)" Video courtesy of RCA/JIVE Label Group, a unit of Sony Music Entertainment and Sevyn Streeter, "I Like It" single courtesy of Atlantic Records**



 

6 Cups herb Turkey
2 Stalks Celery
1-2 Apple (Granny Smith)
½ Cup dried Cranberries
¾ Cup Miracle Whip
Pepper, to taste
Seasoning Salt, to taste
Rosemary Seasoning, to taste
Garlic Powder, to taste (optional)
Pickle Relish, to taste (optional)
Croissant roll (pictured)

Shred/pull meat off leftover Turkey into bowl. Dice Celery and Apple and add to shredded turkey. Add Cranberries, Miracle Whip, all seasonings and any optional ingredients. Mix thoroughly. You can add more or less (depending on amount of Turkey and to your tastebuds). Enjoy!

**SUBSTITUTIONS**
Turkey for chicken
Miracle Whip for real mayo
Cranberries for raisins

This sandwich had just the right balance. A hint of sweetness coupled with a little crunch. This can be served on a bed of lettuce, spinach or in a wrap. If you tried this recipe or put your own spin on it, let me know your thoughts. HAPPY EATING!



O
OOH La La!! If you love Pumpkin or Sweet Potato Pie then this is for you. This rich gooey sweet dessert will make you want to savor every bite, with eyes closed! The only downside is these bars don’t last long around the house, lol. If only the picture was scratch and sniff...whew!
 
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 50 mins
 
Cake:

1 (18 1/4oz) pkg Buttercream cake mix
1 egg
8 Tbsp butter, melted

Filling:

1 (8 oz) pkg cream cheese, soften
1 (15 oz) can pumpkin
3 eggs
1 tsp vanilla
8 Tbsp butter, melted
1 (16 oz) box powder sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp nutmeg

 
Preheat oven 350 degrees

Combine cake mix, egg and butter and mix well with an electric mixer. Pat mixture into the bottom of a lightly greased 13 x 9-inch baking pan. Set aside.

Filling: In large bowl, beat cream cheese and pumpkin until smooth. Add eggs, vanilla and butter, beat together. Next, add powdered sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg and mix well. Spread pumpkin mixture over cake batter and bake 40-50 minutes. Make sure not to over bake, center should be a little gooey. Serve with whipped cream or ice cream. Great served warm, room temperature or cool.


Variations:

Pineapple Buttercake Bars
Substitute can of Pumpkin for 20 oz can crushed Pineapple (drained)

Peanut Butter Buttercake Bars
Use a chocolate cake mix. Add 1 cup creamy peanut butter to the cream cheese filling

Banana Buttercake Bars
Beat cream cheese and 2 ripe bananas instead of can of pumpkin.

***Can substitute cream cheese for Neufchatel (33% less fat than cream cheese)***
 

 *****Try it, you won't regret it*****
TYLER PERRY SPEAKS SUCCESS__________________

N
o matter what direction you go in life you must always remember to just “keep going!” The road may not be an easy one and you will face turbulence and failures, but they are lessons to make you stronger. View them as ‘what-not-to-do-next-time’ guides. We often times want the instant gratification- instant success but with hard work and dedication, success will become that much sweeter.

Never give up and even when you feel as though you want to throw in the towel, remember the hard work you invested. Remind yourself “It will come, don’t stop…keep going.” It may not come when we would like, but it’s on the way. If you find yourself overwhelmed or burned out, by all means, take time to regroup a bit, find balance, peace and pace yourself. 

I'm one for a good ‘rags-to-riches’ story. To read the timeline of accomplishments through a person’s journey. What they faced, what they learned and what they can pass along to the next…speaking from their experience. I know some say “What’s the secret to their success?” and the secret is….wait for it….”Passion, Motivation, Determination…YOU!”

YOU are the key to your own destiny.

The beauty lies within the people you surround yourself with, as well as hard work. Every successful person or multi-million dollar business may been the brains behind the operation and even hands-on but they always and I do mean always have a great team behind them. No one does it all alone, on their own, but when you can give back- do so. Whether via a self help book, an organization or simply five minutes of your time, it’s all positive motivation so make it count.

Nothing is worse than someone who gets a hint of success but start to morph into this egotistic, spiteful person who forgot to pass the baton. Karma is in your hands and you wouldn’t want to see the same people you’ve passed going up now you see going down. Humility, gratitude and staying true can lead you on a successful path.

This world is full of opportunity for the taking. I’ve heard quotes, “Strivers achieve what dreamers believe” and “A dream is only a dream if you don’t wake up and make it a reality.” The 3 C’s of Life: You must make a Choice to take a Chance or your life will never Change. So stay focus and keep going…you can do it!! 

Hopefully you have a sparked of inspiration in your life which can in return help someone else in their journey through life. Stay motivated.
If you have a motivation story, please share it, maybe you just might inspire someone today.
REVIEW-PANOXYL_______________________________________________

ACNE- skin condition: a disease of the oil-secreting glands of the skin that often affects adolescents, producing eruptions on the face, neck, and shoulders that can leave pitted scars.

Photo: Urban Crush
This is an unwanted problem we all go through…unless you’re blessed with great genes. I discovered an OTC (over-the-counter) product by watching one of my favorite medical shows, Dr. Oz. It has the highest percentage of Benzoyl Peroxide (10%) without a prescription.  
It‘s called PanOxyl and I read the reviews so wanted to try it. I have combination skin, so for me using it once a day was needed. Depending on the severity of acne you may gradually increase to 2-3 times daily. It does have a tendency to be very drying in the crease of your skin i.e. eyes, nose, mouth, etc. I then switched to using it every other day. However, I start noticing a real difference in my skin about 2 week later (results may vary). It comes in its own covered soap tray…great packaging! This product is normally around $7.99 at your local Walgreens but I purchased mine on sale for $5.99. Prices may vary at other drugstores and online.
The description read as follows: This product gently removes dirt and excess oil to cleanse and unclog pores, making it an excellent choice for the management of acne on the face, chest and back.
-Same medicine prescribed by dermatologists
-Maximum strength
-Using warm water, wash the affected area for 1 to 2 minutes
-Rinse well and pat dry with a clean towel
-Because excessive drying of the skin may occur, start with one application daily, then gradually increase to two or three times daily if needed or as directed by a doctor.
-If bothersome dryness or peeling occurs, reduce application to once a day or every -other day.
-If going outside, use a sunscreen. If irritation or sensitivity develops, discontinue use of both products and consult a doctor. View the video below to hear more. (video:ehowbeauty)


The caveat: This is for external use only. Do not use if you have very sensitive skin or if you are sensitive to benzoyl peroxide. Avoid contact with clothing or hair (it may bleach it).

·         avoid unnecessary sun exposure and use a sunscreen.
·         keep away from eyes, lips, and mouth
·         avoid contact with hair or dyed fabrics, including carpet and clothing which may be bleached by this product.
·         with other topical acne medications, at the same time or immediately following use of this product may increase dryness or irritation of the skin. If this occurs, only one medication should be used unless directed by a doctor.
·         skin irritation may occur, characterized by redness, burning, itching, peeling, or possibly swelling. More frequent use or higher concentrations may aggravate such irritation. Mild irritation may be reduced by using the product less frequently or in a lower concentration.
Stop use and ask a doctor if irritation becomes severe.
Did this product work for you? What was your experience?

 “I'm a man with the passion and drive to reach my best. When it comes to my music, I strive for artistic expression. I don’t curse, talk dirty, degrade women, or try to materialize in my rap music because I personally feel there’s no place for it.” ~Brandon Smith
 



 
 
With so many aspiring rappers trying to compete for top spots a selected few emerge through the cracks of getting high accolades. The unique rhyming skills, swag, story-telling lyrics all tell a rappers ‘truth’, that’s been harbored. The road to success isn’t easy but in most cases failure is always the best teacher. Dubbed the nickname, “Smith Dragon” or “Dragon Fly”, due to his fascination with dragons/mythical creatures as well as hip hop lingo “spits fire/ hot rhymes”. Brandon Smith is one who redefines the motto. You won’t see him rolling with an entourage, lyrically sounding cliché or backed by a major record label. He won’t follow a trend but may set one.  

 ONE ON ONE: Sharika Mahdi-Neville


Photo: Jackson Beal
H
er infectious smile and spirit will make a crowded room take notice. Sharika Mahdi-Neville is a breath of fresh air who's versatile and innately creative on all levels. She is one of my favorite visual artists and I am thrilled to own some of her work. At a gaze, her paintings almost sway right in front of your eyes.

Growing up in New Orleans’ Ninth Ward she embraced art early on. She often spent hours performing to Michael Jackson tunes with her younger brother while sitting around singing and drawing. In high school she discovered painting which became a platform that providing her with the training she desired. She then united with the world-renowned art guild, Young Aspirations/Young Artists (YA/YA) which exposed her to art throughout the United States and abroad.Graduating Valedictorian of her high school class earned her scholarships to college. Neville earned her undergraduate and graduate degree in Mass Communication from Louisiana State University. After almost a decade of working as an Event/Marketing professional, she regained focus on her craft with a renewed agenda; becoming a professional visual artist.






MY TOP 5 CRUSHES ♥


From time to time I'll put my TOP 5 CRUSHES of things I’m currently watching, reading or listening to. ENJOY! 

MUSIC

1.    CHECK ME OUT - TREY SONGZ ft DIDDY AND MEEK MILL

2.    BALL - T.I ft LIL WAYNE 

3.    CLIQUE - KANYE WEST ft JAY Z AND BIG SHAWN  

4.    BYE BABY - NAS 

5.    MY MOMENT – ft 2 CHAINS, MEEK MILL AND JERIMIH

BOOKS

1.    THE SECRET – RHONDA BYRNE

2.    MAKE IT HAPPEN – KEVIN LILES

3.    THE AFRICAN-AMERICAN CENTURY – HENRY LOUIS GATES, JR & CORNEL WEST

4.    IN THE MEANTIME – IYANLA VANZANT

5.    TUPAC SHAKUR – BY THE EDITORS OF VIBE

COMEDIANS                         

1.    KEVIN HART                                   

2.    DAVE CHAPPELLE                                   

3.    MIKE EPPS

4.    KATT WILLIAMS                              

5.    EDDIE MURPHY

 T.V. SHOWS (REALITY)

1.    LOVE AND HIP HOP ATLANTA

2.    REAL HOUSEWIVES OF ATLANTA

3.    T.I. AND TINY: A FAMILY HUSTLE

4.    KEEPING UP WITH THE KARDASHIANS

5.    SHARK TANK

FIRST DATE FUN OUTINGS

1.    GO CART RACING

2.    LAZER TAG

3.    SKATING (roller or ice)

4.    CLUBS (really dancing and not standing on the wall)

5.    MYSTERY DINNERS or BOWLING (toss up)

What are some of your current favs? Comment Below :)