Postcards Slider Travel UC Lifestyle

Only in Atlanta: SOUTHBOUND
Recently I was going through some photos and noticed the collection of Atlanta hotspots, landmarks and whatnots. Atlanta is a city for all seasons and a great place to do business or raise a family in. Visit the many tourist attractions, taste down-home southern comfort food, and experience the nightlife & fun entertainment. The historical sites and great weather alone make Atlanta inviting; the all-inclusive experiences you receive will make you call it home.

Sitting in traffic is the worst, but at least you can appreciate the beautiful buildings all around while listening to your radio rush hour traffic jam. Traveling MARTA, Atlanta’s public rail and bus transportation, is another option. The fairly new Atlanta Beltline is another option, it a rail corridor that travels 22 miles around the City of Atlanta. The completion will bring together 45 neighborhoods connecting them to the metropolitan Atlanta region, trails, historical sites and whatnots.

Little Five Points offer cool eclectic vibes, a little bit of everything from funky paraphernalia to club clothes and goth gear, if you’re into that. Plenty of shops, eateries & bars to dine out on the patio/terrace. Freedom Walk Park conveniently located in walking distance of The (Jimmy) Carter Center.

There are plenty of restaurants and fine dining that will give the taste of the world. I vow to visit several new places each year, although I may not have traveled a particular region but my taste buds wouldn’t know the difference, lol. That down south soul food takes me back to my roots, lol.

There are countless day parties, networking events and plenty of family friendly experience to partake in. But……

WHEN THE SUN GOES DOWN

 So much goes down when the nightlife come around and although Atlanta is known for the many popular strip clubs, I’ll keeping this post PG, lol, bummer for some I know.  Atlanta is a breeding ground for huge musical talent and many production projects. It’s not unusual to spot a celebrity while shopping or partying with them at one of their hosted events.

(Upper left) The CNN sculpture located at the global headquarters of Turner Broadcasting, housing shops, hotels and eateries. (Lower right) The World of Coke three story interactive pavilion located at Underground Atlanta. Every New Year’s Eve many come to witness the Big Peach drop by counting down to a new year. Rest assure there are plenty shops, restaurants and entertainment here. You’ll see old rail beds and walk the cobblestone street on the upper and lower streets. (Right side) If you’re in the downtown/Georgia Tech area The Varsity is another hot spot. This huge diner is super busy and you can choose to order curb-side service without leaving your car.  

Skyview Atlanta, huge ferris wheel is a great way to view the city. The basic fare is $13.50 for adults (13+), Children $8.50 (3-12), under 2 (free). Discounts for senior citizens and groups of 20+. If you’re feeling royalty and go the VIP route ($50 per person) you will view the city sitting on leather seats and a glass see-through floor. For that price it may come with other perks.

Atlanta is filled with Murals and graffiti around the city.

 

 

Atlanta have so much to offer with many things to do/see. I couldn’t fit everything in one post and just may do a part 2, lol. If you decide to take a road trip to the ATL, be sure to spend at least a week in the city to absorb all it has to offer. I guarantee you just might return sooner than later and even call Atlanta your second home.

 

Thanks for stopping by. If you like this and/or want to see similar posts, give it a thumbs up. By all means share if you like. Have you traveled to Atlanta before? Did you enjoy your visit? What were some of your highlights?!

Have any questions, comments or well wishes? Be blessed. XOXO

 

Events Hair Slider UC Entertainment



Photo: Design Essentials

 Congratulations to Design Essentials celebrating 25 years of beauty, innovation and style. Design Essentials recently hosted ‘A Beautiful Legacy: Celebrating 25 Years’, an exclusive private event for members of the media. Essence.com Hair and Beauty Editor, Deena Campbell hosted the event which took place at the very beautiful Asante Restaurant in Atlanta, headed by celebrity chef Marvin Woods.

The media brunch included tips and lessons learned by Design Essentials Founder and CEO Cornell McBride Sr. and the DE family. The conversation-based event was the perfect setting and timing for unveiling their 25^th Anniversary Look Book. Celebrity photographer, Allen Cooley images graced the pages of the book. Take a look inside the event.

L to R: Design Essentials® founder and CEO Cornell McBride Sr., 

Design Essentials® Director of Interactive Media Shalonda McBride Armstrong, Essence.com Hair and Beauty Editor, Deena Campbell, Design Essentials® President Cornell McBride Jr., and Design Essentials® Director of Operations Andre McBride. Photos: ExclusiveAccess

 

 

Steps Event beautifully put the magic (décor) touch throughout the event. Table bathe in the Design Essentials colors along with a course menu list.

 

Bloggers and media asked a round of questions regarding the beauty industry and their experiences related to it.

 

Pictured (far right) is Design Essentials Look Book cover model. Fashion Designer Ade Bakard styled the models for this event.

 

 

The man behind the Design Essentials 25^th Look Book images, Allen Cooley, explained his inspiration when capturing images.

Congratulations Design Essentials on 25 years of beauty and solidifying a place in the haircare industry. Looking forward to 25 more years.

Do you follow me, Urban Crush? If you like this or similar posts be sure to like, share, follow, join etc. I love reading all the cool comments or answer questions you all have. Thanks again. Until next time XO

 

Fashion Shoes Slider UC Entertainment

Every woman should own a pair of basic-colored shoes in her closet. I have many of the classic black but decided to expand my collection of nudes/tans. Retail therapy is a calm and soothing outlet to do, no matter if its window shopping, cruising online sites, or strolling the mall etc., I always stumble upon great things I like to share with you all.  And, because summer is not officially over yet, we have plenty of time left. So, first stop:

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Love at first sight! I found these cute Guess wedges (above photo), but in another color. Oh no, just my luck they didn’t have my size, bummer. I strolled over to the sale section and not only are they marked down but an additional percentage off as well. Woot Woot! Ha! Upon first sight I looked for the flaw, but the sales associate explained they’ll mark down a shoe when it is the last color/size…. Oh really?! Ok, where have I been, am I the last person who knew this? You know I had to snatch them up.

Allow me to give an honorable mention and share this pair (wedge), I purchased some months back when I first decided I was going nude, lol! Again, saw them and knew they would make a great addition.

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Although these fabric ballerina flats are not nude, but they're in the basic-color family that I found at Urban Outfitters. Talk about comfort you guys, wow! Just what the doctor ordered when you are on some chill relax day and wearing six-inched heels is not in your forecast. By the way… I love their fabric-like bags, cute!

In the photo above you see my daughter and myself modeling two of the styles that I purchased. They have many colors and styles to choose, but again I went for the basic laid-back look.

Another honorable mention are these cute gold and tan heels my daughter modeled…and yes we wear the same size shoe, lol.

There you have it, some of my recent buys for my collection and I didn’t technically have to get nude to get it, lol.  Summer is drifting away and not sure what to focus on next. Hmm, maybe adding more metallic or adding to my boot collection perhaps? Not sure yet but whatever it is, I’ll definitely showcase my finds with you. Until next time you guys! XO

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Real Talk Slider UC Lifestyle

We live in a fast-paced society but always hear “Life is short…”, but what we do with it and how we spend our time makes all the difference in our future. Finding yourself on the wrong side of the tracks or going into an early grave is not a good look.

ALL THAT GLITTERS AIN'T GOLD **********************

We see many artists, entertainers, and idols flaunt their lavish lifestyle via television, music or social media platforms. I’ll admit, ballin’ out is very enticing and many want to ‘represent or be about that life’ also…. minus the millions of dollars in many bank accounts. They say, “It’s not trickin’ if you got it” so to each its’ own but don’t try to keep up with the Jones, Kardashians or anyone else if you can’t afford to.

 Designer brands/style, the hottest cars and phones may be new one minute and considered old in a year or two with an updated version. Focus on your book smarts and less on plastic surgery to imitate the celebrity-style you’re eagerly seeking. What is your real goal here? To impress, to be popular, to hold on to a boy/girl that you're sooo in love with…or so you think?! That boy or girl will be there, stay strong and don’t cheat your youth just to hurry to adult hood.

At some point we all want independence but, if your story reads like front page negative news, or you-should-have-your-own-ratchet-reality-show storyline, then fine-tuning your priorities may not be a bad idea. It’s not cool to be out of control, drugged-out, disrespectful to parents (or other authorities) - missing guidance, etc. Another mother shouldn’t have to lose her child to the streets or senseless acts caused by police brutality, or hatred in the world.   

THERE’S LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL**************

Slow down you’re moving too fast, pace yourself and find your rhythm. The world is yours and you’ll get where you need to go in due time. Play your position by educating yourself, and surround yourself with the right people. Be a respectable reliable force others can see in your bright future. What seeds you plant today will flourish tomorrow, be it good or bad. So keep your eye on the prize.

·        -Celebrate more birthdays, have fun but grow wiser.

·        -Achieve great things as you make your mark in the world, putting forth the effort can be very rewarding.

First rule of business, stay in school, get your diploma….hey go for a degree or two. Whether via interning or a job, show responsibility, work ethic and leadership skills. Aim for advancement, if you have a passion for something, truly go after it. Create your own lane and soar high.

“School just isn’t my thing” or “I’m not interested in being an entrepreneur”, yeah I get it but, are you happy with your 9 to 5 job, if you have one? Maybe you have goals and dreams, and if so, education will play an important role in your upcoming moves so, plan it out. Don’t allow fear to take over decisions that could be life-changing for you. Everyone have a talent they’re good at, or passion for something so find what it is and onward march! Young world, do you know where you’re running to? Expecting success when everyone else is expecting failure is a sign of a visionary. Seeing things no one else can yet see sounds like a BOSS to me! Stay motivated, you can do it….let’s go! Xo

What advice would you give our youth today?  Or to your younger self, if you could. Stay blessed! 

Recipes Slider UC Entertainment

As much as I love to cook, I equally love to bake. Oh boy! If only a scratch n’ sniff area was supplied on all screens you could smell this delicious sweet dessert. 

INGREDIENTS

1 Cup Chocolate Chips

2 Cups Pecans

¾ Cup Butter (melted)

½ Cup Evaporated Milk

1 (14oz) bag Caramel

1-1/3 Cup Water

1/3 Cup Oil

3 Eggs

1 (18oz box) German Chocolate Cake Mix

 DIRECTIONS

Prepare cake mix according to the box instructions. Pour ½ batter into a 13x9 inch pan and top with 1 cup of Pecans. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes. Remove from oven, set aside to cool.

(NOTE: You may alter cake mix flavor with Chocolate or another cake of your choice. Get creative, it’s your cake. I initially try a recipe as-is, per original recipe but then my creative juices come up with other alternatives to try.)

Let cake cool. In double broiler (or in my case a pot of boiling water with a bowl on top)

melt caramel, milk and butter stir constantly until melted. 

(Note: I used a personal touch by adding a little cocoa powder to my milk mixture also caramel do not need to melt separately, I sat a small portion aside for something else.) 

Pour the caramel mixture over the cooled (room temp) cake. This layer would be the caramel in the center of the cake. (NOTE I also added a little pecans and chocolate chips on this step)

Pour the remaining batter on top, sprinkle last 1 Cup, or remainder of Pecans, depending on if you use some for center of cake, and chocolate chips. Bake an additional 20 minutes, let cool and Voila! Enjoy. 

Ooooohhh, so delish! This is one dessert I will schedule either as a 'cheat' day or just-because-I-deserve-it day, lol. 

(Note: if you like a real gooey center, you may want to use more caramel)
What are some of your go-to desserts, Peach Cobbler? Red Velvet Cake? I would love to hear about them. Have any questions or comments, leave them in the comment box below. Until next time, xo. 

  

Crushing On Slider UC Entertainment

I lalaLove various types of bags, the more unique the better....guess that makes me a bag lady, huh. The funny thing is no matter how much I put inside, it tends to get over-loaded and weighed down. Like many women, we switch our bags quite often and I want to share my latest find. This Isaac Mizrahi cutie that I picked up at Marshalls, the right size & fit that can be utilize for any purpose.

The black patent leather with gold zippers and name plate on the outside, was the sleek look I was searching for. Looking inside the bag, I noticed the cute pink polka dots and four deep pockets- two on each side. Making it the great on-the-go makeup/hair or traveling bag. I may start off using it as my purse, either way, here are some essential items I normally carry… of course it varies depending on the size and occasion.

It’s a must that I have gum on deck- and yes I am a popper, but mindful while I’m out standing next to someone. At times, I attend long events and in the mist of conversations, the sweetest, coolest people could scorch your nose hairs clean out of your nose… maybe eyebrows and lashes too, lol. I wouldn’t want my breath to be associated with hot garbage either, so being prepared is much easier on both parties.

                                                         

My lips feel bare if I don’t have Chapstick or gloss to keep them moisturized, so that's always a plus. Touching countless objects, handles and whatnots require plenty hand sanitizer and lotion, a definite staple. I spruce up my perfume by having a travel-sized roll-on or mini-sized bottle of my favorite scent.

                                                            

With a million and one things going on- like many of us- jotting down a to-do lists, content to write, etc. the old fashion way with a notepad and a couple of pens equal satisfaction. It’s not fun having year-around allergies, but my albuterol inhaler and non-drowsy allergy medicine is crucial for my occasional asthma flare-ups & unexpected reactions. I’m also prepared to stop headaches right in its tracks whenever they start to come around. 

 Am I the only one who still carries around a ‘Tip Guide’ card? It’s quicker for me to pull it out than to type the info in my phone. My set of keys have way-too-many-reward cards on them, only a few are in heavy rotation.

Oh yeah more gum; can’t get enough, lol. My little blue pouch contains first aid items…..you never know what minor emergency you’ll encounter while out. I guess it’s the ‘prepared-mom’ in me.

Again, these are my normal items but other times I may have a music device, mini-notepad, tablet, vitamins, makeup, snacks, etc. Grab my phone, keys and decide which pair of sunglasses to sport for the day and I am out the door, ready to tackle the world.

What are some of your go-to essential items? Have a great one. xoxo 

All photos: Urban Crush

Hair Slider UC Lifestyle

I decided a while back that my hair needed a major detox from relaxers. My hair is relaxed two, sometimes three, times a year and my last relaxer was several months ago, back in February. Since then, I’ve gained about two inches of new growth….yikes! Shout out to all my natural and transitioning sistahs out there, natural haircare maintenance can be a lot of work.

What is your haircare routine?

I have dry thirsty hair which requires me to frequently moisturize it. I still incorporate my basic routine that you can find in this past post here. Although I buy more sulfate-free and natural hair products nowadays, I still love trying other items to switch up every couple of months.

(Pictured) Peppermint Essential Oil- Stimulates blood flow deep down to the hair root.
Lavender Essential Oil- Has soothing properties, great for regeneration and anti-inflammatory. I add a few drops to my bathe along with bubbles and even Epsom Salt- depending on the day I had. Heaven.

Essential Oils are used in a wide variety of beauty products. These oils pack a powerful punch and very potent, so if used on skin, it’s advised to always dilute them with a carrier oil; Coconut, Olive, Jojoba, Grapeseed, Avocado, etc. Or even water. A few drops goes a long way.
Extra Virgin Coconut Oil (EVCO) is one of my top go-to staples. I use it in an applicator bottle and can be used for skin, hair, cooking… everything! The benefits are amazing.

I keep infused-water in my spritz bottle. Just add a few drops of your favorite essential oil and you’re done. Any bottle will do and I set my nozzle to spray in a light mist. I use this twice daily on most days, but use as needed. For extra shine I sometimes use a mist/spray but serums give shine also.

 
(Above pic) My hair was in Bantu knots overnight and taken out the following day. This is one way to get the curls/coils you want without applying heat. The soft curls sprung back in place when I stretched a few out to its normal length.

After I wash/condition hair, I used the Moisturize & Seal method. I misted my hair with infused-water, then apply a leave-in conditioner, followed by an oil. I’ll then twist, braid, Bantu knots or pin it up before placing a satin hair bonnet/scarf on it.  

Lighting and shine is all you need.
This look lasted several days for me but once those coils fell and the curls were done, I decided to moist & seal again but this time wearing a twist out. Some attempts turn out better than others but the results were nice.

 After a couple of days of the Twist out, I finally used heat by flat ironing my hair. Don’t forget to use a heat protectant, a lifesaver for your hair. I loved my straight silky look and although I didn’t add more product to my hair, it still had a nice shine.

No one can detect two inches of new growth. Oh and I cut about an inch off my armpit-length hair due to split ends. When I don’t use heat to straighten my hair, I love rocking the simple blow-dried look, just blow and go, lol. (Tip: I normally air dry my tresses but when I decide to blow dry it’s usually set on cool.)    

There you have it, a few simple things that I add to my routine. Staying on a haircare regimen and paying attention to your hair needs will allow you to achieve the healthy hair results you’re seeking. Good luck on your haircare journey. -xoxo

Have any questions or want to share your routine, leave it below in the comment box. I would love to know great products or tips you use.

All photos: Urban Crush