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HIP HOP ICON: DOUG E FRESH

Now although it’s been since last week the 2014 BET Hip Hop Awards was aired and BET have its heavy rotation locked down like a held hostage; it still remains a great show. Most award shows have the good, bad and the ugly but BET did its job to give the Hip Hop community and BET watchers something to appreciate.
I must give SALUTE to one touching and well-deserved moments of the show and that is the recipient of the ‘I AM HIPHOP ICON’ award…Doug E Fresh. To create his own lane with his human beat-box sound, will forever go down as a pioneer of Hip Hop.

No one can’t deny the touching moment where he announced that he previously lost his mother five weeks earlier. It is always great to achieve accomplishments but extra special for loved ones to experience your journeys and growth making them extremely proud. Mama I made it.

I have seen Doug E Fresh perform many times but if you haven’t, check him out; he takes everyone on a ride with plenty of crowd participation for sure. I caught him a few months ago, and as always he killed it! Oh what fun.

 
Every snippet /mix that dropped took everyone back to old dances, Michael Jackson moves and good old fashion 'feel-good' music. Congrats Doug E Fresh on your award and many more years of bringing us "you".
 
[Singing] “Doug E, Doug E, Doug E can’t you see somehow your beats just hypnotize me...lol”.



Recently, I found myself meeting up with friends for a birthday dinner. We celebrated, my girl, El’s birthday; over 22 years of a loving solid friendship/sisterhood. I love visiting the Cheesecake Factory and since this was El's first visit (as well as another friend among us) the timing and choice was perfect. I truly love the ambience of this place, it never gets old to me.
 
Upon our arrival, it was standing room only so we managed to take a few quick pics while we waited. Once we were seated on the outside patio, conversations flowed and hardy laughs soon followed. 



The wait was long after we ordered but people watching- between great conversations- quickly produce fictitious storylines. A man walking alone with his baby strapped in front of him and diaper bag on his shoulders turned into… (talking as if we were his frustrated thoughts)… “she told me she was just going to run into one store, now I have to go find her…leaving us in a hot car…she set me up.” Lol, we had several scenarios until…. the drinks arrived. 

 



Tropical Martini, Typhoon Punch, and J.W.’s Pink Lemonade



Small plates and snacks: appetizers

(Upper Left) Tex Mex Eggrolls, (Upper Right) Warm Asparagus Salad, (Bottom) Fresh Basil, Tomato and Cheese Flatbread- shown with extra tomato
 
Check out some of the dishes we ordered...
 

Shrimp Scampi and Steak Diane
 
 
Cajun Jambalaya Pasta
 
 
Chicken Bellagio

 
 
Grilled Turkey Burger


Fish and Chips
The food look so good don't it?! This was just the good-time girl fix that the doctor ordered. No one was here to vent, act stand-offish or be a Debbie downer; although venting could have been acceptable among friends. The key is to have the right combination of friends to make it a success and I have plenty of friend combos and many get togethers still ahead of me. Until next time- ‘Leave your troubles behind’



See ya soon!
***(All photos: URBAN CRUSH)***
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INGREDIENTS

8 Chicken thighs fillets
2 Tbsp Oil
2 Onions (large)
2 Tsp Ginger (fresh, grated)
2 Garlic (cloves, crushed)
1 Tbsp Thai green curry paste
1 Lemongrass (stem, finely chopped)
1 Tbsp Fish oil
3 Cups Coconut Cream
4 Carrots (medium, straw or thinly cut)
2 Cups Green Beans (cut)
2 Tbsp Coriander (fresh, finely chopped)
2 Tbsp Mint (fresh, finely chopped)
Salt (to taste)
1 Cup Coconut (toasted, flaked)

 


DIRECTIONS

(Upper right) Trim excess fat from chicken, cut into thin strips. (Hint: I substitute thighs for skinless chicken breast) Place oil into frying pan; add chicken. Cook over high heat until chicken is lightly browned. Remove from pan and drain on paper towel.

(Lower left) Add onion, ginger, garlic and curry paste to pan. Stir over medium heat for 1 minute. (Hint: the paste make the consistency similar to a rue)
(Lower right) Return chicken to pan (Hint: at this time I cut the chicken breast into chunks) Add Lemongrass and Fish sauce.


(Upper left) Also add Coconut cream, Carrots and beans; stir, heat to boil. (Hint: I substitute Green Beans for Broccoli)


 (Upper right) Reduce heat; simmer uncovered for 10 minutes or until chicken and veggies are tender, stirring occasionally. Stir in coriander, mint and salt. Sprinkle coconut over sauce. (Hint: I did not add mint to this dish. Can be optional)
(Lower pics) serve immediately with noodles or rice. (Hint: I used Fettuccine)

I hope that you give this recipe a try especially those of you who enjoy Thai and Asian inspired dishes. It's always a winner in my household. (Warning: the Fish sauce is one smelly oil...whew! So happy that this dish does not taste like the oil smell, lol.   
If you like this blog (recipes, events, interviews etc. please 'like, join, share, comment etc. It's greatly appreciated and as always, Thanks for stopping by and see you soon.
 ***ALL PHOTOS: URBAN CRUSH***


Sound the horns and the music….today officially makes Urban Crush 2 YEARS OLD!!! Yay…go shorty, it’s your versary, lol. I really want to thank everyone who stop by to check out my posts but a special SHOUT OUT to those who take the time to send me questions or suggestions, comments, share, follow, tweet, like and joined my blog- and follow my other social media handles. It is amazing to see the many countries my blog reaches. Although it’s a fact that leaving comments on any blog are significantly low, I truly enjoy reading, laughing and responding to the comments I receive but more are encouraged so keep them coming.

(note: I’ve received many messages from some having problems joining my blog, it’s being looked into as I work out the kinks and a new blog facelift.)

There is a lot that goes into blogging which I will break that down in a future post but right now I want to celebrate with another fun giveaway. Hummm let’s see, what can I giveaway to those who show my blog love and support?

Btw, for those who missed my last giveaway, click here to see the Urban Crush box and all the goodies that winner received.
Just know it will be a great gift(s) to show my appreciation for those who rock with me, oh but it’s celebrating being 2 years old, duh!

If you would like to enter in any Urban Crush contest/giveaways, be sure to:
“LIKE” my Urban Crush Facebook Page
“Join” my Urban Crush blog (Show me some love :) and/or
“Follow” me on Twitter

(At least 2 are required above but winners who do all 3 receive extra love :)

Contests/Giveaways will be announced prior to and winners will be posted. The next winner could be ‘you’ so sign up now. All prizes vary and we love “free giveaways”, right!

In addition one lucky winner will be chosen among the comments from "this" post. Comment ideas: say hi, any suggestions, tell me what you like about my blog, what you want to see more of etc. Be creative but thoughtful. Please no vulgar comments. Cut off date September 26, 2014. Winner will be announced shortly after, Good Luck! ~Sonya xoxo
 (Note: Urban Crush is not affiliated with any product brand)
Pics: Urban Crush

 


It only take a second to catch someone’s eye and a few minutes for your physical-attraction meter to activate before either party makes a move. Once the conversation get underway and subconscious hints are being tossed around, you soon find yourself on a date or two making mental notes about your date. Here are a few examples you've heard or experienced yourself...
Attractions (check): great hygiene, intelligence, humor, independence, trust, physical features, a career, spiritual etc.
 
Turn Offs (check): body odor, reckless, boring, thirsty (needy), obnoxious, talkative, unattractive, suspicious doubts, liar, cheater, unemployed etc. 
Urban Crush took to the streets to hear these men and women sound off about their attractions and turn offs about a mate.


So what's your likes and dislikes about a person? Drop a line in the comments below, I would love to get your views.
Thanks for stopping by, ~xoxo  


***If you love relationship topics like this, be sure to THUMBS UP video on my 'NEW' Youtube channel and SUBSCRIBE, LIKE, FOLLOW, SHARE and JOIN
***Video: Urban Crush***



America’s Next Top Model, cycle 4- top three finalist, Keenyah Hill playfully struck a pose for Urban Crush. Keenyah mentioned modeling and acting projects in the works but no word on when it will head our way, but we will be on the lookout when they emerge.

This easy breezy asymmetric skirt paired with these sexy studded numbers bring this outfit together nicely. Thanks Keenyah for giving us your fun and flirty fashion drive-by. Until next time ~xoxo

Thanks for driving by, lol, if you like this post be sure to LIKE (FB), FOLLOW (Twitter), JOIN (Blog). SHARING (post) is caring! If you would like to see more post like this please let me know in the comments below. Be Blessed!

***Photo: Urban Crush***


Trey 'Trigga' Songz is riding high on a promotional tour these days with his latest album entitled "TRIGGA" that dropped last month on July 1st. I caught him as he took to the Walmart stage for a brief interview, performing a couple songs, "Foreign" and "Na Na" and signing cd's for screaming fans. Word has it, he along with Chris 'Breezy', will soon join forces on tour, after all... they did a great job collaborating on stage with August Alsina on the 'I Love It' remix at the 2014 BET Awards. Check out part 1 as he describes watching Prince perform and more in this brief mini interview.



In part 2, Trey give fans vocal attention by singing, as all eyes and cameras were on him.
 
 
 

 
Any Trey Songz fans, share your comments below?....Like the post/videos... please SHARE, LIKE, FOLLOW and SUBSCRIBE Have a good one!  
 
***ALL VIDEO: URBAN CRUSH***





Ok, so I wanted to make my Strawberry No-Bake Cheesecake but with a little twist this time. The graham cracker crust base was replaced with cake as the bottom layer and topped off with some extra added goodness! If you want the original recipe click here. Continue below for the remix version.


INGREDIENTS


½ Cup plus 2 Tbsp. sugar. divided
2 pkg. (8 oz each) Philadelphia Neufchatel Cheese, softened.
½ Cup Strawberry preserves
2 Cups fresh strawberries, chopped
1 tub (8oz) Cool Whip Lite Whip Topping
1/2 Cup Chocolate chips
1/3 Cup Whipping Cream, or enough to thin out chocolate 

 
DIRECTIONS
 

(Upper left & right pics) Follow the cake mix directions on the box, I used a Buttercream mix but you can use whatever kind you like. Pour into a 9x13-inch pan and bake according to time on cake box.

(Lower right) Beat Neufchatel and 1/2 cup sugar in large bowl with mixer until well blended. Add preserves; mix well.


(Upper left & right pics) Place strawberries and remaining 2 Tbsp. sugar in small bowl; mash with fork. Add strawberry mixture. (TIP: May add more or less strawberries and sugar to mixture (your personal preference).

(Lower right) Also add cool whip into cheese mixture. Make sure cake is cooled before topping with cream cheese mixture.
 (Upper left & right pics) Top with fresh strawberries, I used halves but you can slice it how you like. Next melt some chocolate. Heat a small pot of water then sat a small bowl on top, add chocolate- I used a mixture of dark and semi-sweet chocolate chips. Add whipping cream into melted chocolate- making sure to stir/blend both ingredients. (TIP: You can use a chocolate bar or whatever you like and you can melt chocolate in microwave vs the stove)

(Bottom pic) Drizzle with chocolate, cover; let set in refrigerator 4 hours or until firm, cut and enjoy! Store in refrigerator.

Try the recipe and let me know if you like it. I would love to hear how you put your own remix spin on it.

Don't forget to share:) Like my FB page, Follow on Twitter, Join my blog or even sign up to my RSS Feed. Be blessed!

**All Pics: Urban Crush**


                                                                   Glam Time!

EDEN BodyWorks hosted an event at the W Hotel and while there I received a mini-makeup makeover. If you follow Urban Crush then you know I usually do my own makeup but this called for a little sprucing up and I had the perfect makeup artist/master esthetician to do it. 




Tanya used a combination of both MAC and CoverGirl's Queen Collection makeup lines. Tanya gave great makeup tips as she 'werked' her magic and contoured my face. This application was light and the finished look......


A great daytime or anytime natural look that I can rock anywhere. I love it and will apply some of her techniques that I have learned. It's just enough, short, simple yet sweet!
There….now I’m ready!
If you like this post, leave me a comment and feel free to share it. Don't forget to join the blog. Have a Blessed one guys!

**ALL PICS: URBAN CRUSH**

















A: Hi Christina, 
Thank you for contacting me with such great questions. I, too, lived in a small town- from the mid-west so I truly can relate. To address your first statement, I would suggest starting with your job. It may have a glass ceiling but by checking on your companies website or human resources other options in another department; or a sister/parent company may be available and more rewarding for you. But, if it's a totally different direction/field you're seeking, find out what really motivates you- what speaks to your heart. If you have a passion for something, let that fuel you.  

 On Networking As far as networking; research and contact companies who can put you in the right direction with the right people. Social media is a beast when it comes to networking; a great source. Many have had great experiences with job offers, got discovered with their talents etc. via the web and other forums. Word of mouth is one to never go out-of-style and by telling people what it is that you do, can open many doors. Depending on how far you reside to the nearest city, you may need to commute a little further out for better opportunities, but no major relocating. Also consider freelance work, start with local companies. A short and sweet email with a brief who, what and why description can be a great introduction to a potential client/employer etc. Attending related events, collaborating and participating when they come to your town or nearby will put you one step closer. Again, it's all about reaching out to them and building relationships. It's not about how many people in your circle, it's the right people in your circle.

On Fear
The more you involve yourself the more you become comfortable, which brings me to your last question. We all have some type of fear but once you overcome it, it's no longer a fear. For me personally, I kept my eye on the prize. I was in school full-time, worked part-time and interned with the little time I had left. I, too, am a hands-on person and I soaked up everything like a sponge and at times I did what you're doing...I asked questions. I was determine to conquer a passion and personal goal of mine. 

 Sometimes the hardest part is getting started. It's not a race or time-limit, so take as much time needed (as long as you know to start). Imagine what you could accomplish if you allow yourself to take the first step- even baby steps. Hard work will pay off and even when you become 'less-inspired' along your journey...don't quit! Someone somewhere will take notice as long as you put yourself out there and produce great hard work. Having a great support system will help shave fearful thoughts/actions and give you some motivation to continue. Christina, hope I sparked a few ideas for you. Good luck with your career endeavors and the best of luck on your journey. 

 As always,
Thank you for following and supporting Urban Crush~ xoxo

 **If you have a entertainment or lifestyle related question, contact me. I would be happy to assist/answer your question with an honest thorough answer.

 ** What did I miss? Feel free to add more suggestions in the comment section. Your knowledge and suggestions may help others. If you liked this post don't forget to SHARE & FOLLOW, thanks for stopping by:)