Grandmother's Beauty Secrets

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A grandmother is one of the best treasures within a family. To a little girl turned budding woman, a grandmother's wisdom is priceless. Grandmother's shed wisdom on everything from spirituality, love, finances, and of course beauty. Some of grandmother's "tried 'n true" beauty treasures are greater than any self help book or product on the market.

My grandmother and many of the elders in the community swore by the use of natural herbs for beauty and wellness. She used a variety of things such as oatmeal scrubs, honey, rose water, olive oil, crushed aspirin, cloves, and sage. Some dismissed these concoctions as "snake oils" but "G-mama" and the others were free of harsh illnesses, wrinkles, and other things that we deemed as problematic.

G-mama and the elders offered the following:

• Clean skin with peroxide and tone with witch hazel.

• Oatmeal scrubs for smooth skin.

• Mix olive oil with lotion to prevent ashy skin.

• Crushed aspirin mixed with a hint of Noxzema to clean and exfoliate.

• Honey was a humectant for our hair and skin.

Did your grandmother use nontraditional products for beauty and wellness?

Tell us about it.

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"Fashion Week" - Work Edition

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Women who work outside of the home are often challenged with selecting appropriate yet appealing clothing for the work week. Our work locations vary: executive, business casual, or casual. Therefore, finding clothing that aligns with work expectations yet representing our personal taste is important.

My work environment is mostly business casual. It's dressy without the suit, and casual without the jeans. Therefore, there's a lot of room for interpretation. For the most part, I linger around this dressy casual genre. I don't want to appear too relaxed nor too dressy. 

Here's the tricky part, my closet is a hodge-podge of everything. It is neatly arranged by color: blouses, jeans, pants, and jackets. I fold my shirts. I feel that I have a decent amount of clothes, but I could always use more. However, I wear the same work outfits, over, and over, and over, and over. Why? Procrastination and preparation.

Before I leave the house, my bedroom is a mess because I am hunting for something to wear.

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It's frustrating to say the least.

So I BEG ask, how do you prepare your work outfits for the week? I want to be fashionable all week and not look like an overworked and underpaid middle manager (because I'm not). 

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Fashionably Chic - Home Decor

photo courtesy of Midtown Patch

Home decor is very important to me. My home is my "queendom" and styling her like a gem is supreme. One of the elements I looked for when purchasing a home was size. Because my tastes vary and align with the side of luxurious; I knew that it was important to find a large house for variety, and a favorite store for economic purposes. 

Z Gallerie was the perfect fit.

I first became acquainted with Z Gallerie when I first moved to Atlanta. One of its locations  is at Perimeter Mall which was only a few blocks from my then apartment. I immediately fell in love with Z Gallerie (and so did my mom). We were in the store for hours. The displays were phenomenal. I found the perfect arrangement for one of my guest bedrooms. The beds were opulent and the decorative accessories were a perfect match. My mom and I wanted to buy one of everything. We were both amazed with how affordable their chic furnishings were. The level of quality and beauty that Z Gallerie offers is typically very expensive in similar stores. 

I finished my guest room with one of their many pieces of art. I am a huge fan of abstract pieces and Z Gallerie has them in abundance. I really liked Levels by Charlene Lynch. 

One of the greatest things about Z Gallerie is their online selection. If there isn't a store near you, all of their fabulous finds are online.

Have you ever visited Z Gallerie? What did you think?

This is a sponsored post. All experiences and opinions are unique to me: Dr. Reginia and Her Perfect Black Dress

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Rosa Mexicano (Review)

You guys know that I took a trip across the waters for my birthday; well during the tiny vacation, I shimmied around Miami a day or two as well. My friend and I stopped for a few bites to eat after a day of shopping of the sorts in the Lincoln Rd area of South Beach.

We stopped by a casual but swanky spot called Rosa Mexicano. There's one here in Atlanta, in Atlantic Station, but I've never been. We arrived at the joint just in the nick of time because shortly thereafter, the wait list began.

The restaurant is quite sultry in appearance; very attractive and a perfect fit for Lincoln Rd and Atlantic Station. Though the lights are low and the seating hints of "tre' posh", it is slightly family friendly (a crying baby would ruin everyone's mood).

On the way to our table, I noticed a cart filled with freshly cut vegetables. I didn't give it a second thought until the server asked if we wanted to try their signature guacamole. (We indulged)

My friend loves guacamole so I decided to try it (again). I must say that this guacamole was heavenly. It was made with fresh avocados, onions, tomatoes, lemon, and lime (probably something else too but I forgot).

We also had this skillet cheese dip type of thing, I forgot the name of that too (maybe the margaritas). I do remember the Chicken Tortilla Pie
(so good).

Upon entering, I assumed that this was a standard, casual, dining place but no ma'am, the bill set us back $96 (including tip). Have your coins in order before taking a taste of Ms. Rosa Mexicano.

Locations are;

• ATLANTA, G

• HACKENSACK, NJ

• LOS ANGELES, CA (L.A. LIVE)

• LOS ANGELES, CA (SUNSET BLVD)

• MIAMI, FL (MARY BRICKELL VILLAGE)

• MIAMI, FL (SOUTH BEACH)

• MINNEAPOLIS, MN

• NATIONAL HARBOR, MD

• NEW YORK, NY (FIRST AVENUE)

• NEW YORK, NY (LINCOLN CENTER)

• NEW YORK, NY (UNION SQUARE)

• WASHINGTON, DC (PENN QUARTER)

• WASHINGTON, DC (CHEVY CHASE)

• PANAMA CITY, PANAMA

I will try Rosa Mexicano again.

Have you been? Does this sound like a place that you'd like to try? 

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Let's Go Cruising Together..

Recently, I had the opportunity to frolic around Miami, thus the pictures of the Miami Port. I was greeted by a few cruise liners. I must say, there is such beauty in seeing all of the liners together; it's so statuesque. I noticed Norwegian, Carnival, and Celebrity.

I am a fan of cruising. It's like a buffet vacation. You have lodging, food, and destination all packaged into one. I prefer a 7 day cruise with at least 4 ports. What better way to see various countries than a short stay on a port-of-call. I've only sailed with two companies: Norwegian and Carnival.                                                                                                                                                                                       Norwegian offers a low frills, straight to the point combination. It has "freestyle cruising" which allows you to have dinner at times that are good for you unlike the other liners. Many of the other amenities are the same: pools, hot tubs, games, shows, all day eating, and the captain's dinner.

Carnival has gained the reputation of being a party liner and a favorite among African-American cruisers. It is a spirited adventure and there's never a dull moment. Carnival offers short packages with economically friendly rates.

               

My favorite parts of cruising are the port-of-calls and of course the food. I suggest dieting before and after cruising to avoid a shock on the scale. I hope the cruise again soon.

Are you a fan of cruises?

Our prayers are with the families who were affect by the cruise tragedy in Italy.

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Tanda Skincare

One of my goals for 2012, is to take better care my skin. As a 30 something, hormonal being, I am sometimes plagued with breakouts due to hormonal changes and bacteria. I must admit that sometimes I leave my make-up on overnight which a big NO-NO, so I'm sure this attributes to some unsightly pimples. 

As I am a product-junkie, I am always on the hunt for the next best product. I have found some effective solutions along the way. Recently, I happened upon Tanda. Because Tanda has a variety of treatments for various skin problems, I am considering trying one of their acne light treatment and anti-aging light therapy products. The treatment of acne starts below the service, both of these products address skin issues at their source. I will try both of these products under the supervision of my dermatologist. 

Do you have any new skin care regimens?






This is a sponsored post but all opinions and experiences are unique to Dr. Reginia and Her Perfect Black Dress.

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Friday the 13th: Freaky or Superstitious?

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Superstitions are supernatural causalities on human subjects.

Here are a few popular ones:

• Friday the thirteenth is an unlucky day

• A rabbit's foot brings good luck

• To find a four-leaf clover is to find good luck

• If you walk under a ladder, you will have bad luck

• If a black cat crosses your path you will have bad luck

• To break a mirror will bring you seven years bad luck

• To open an umbrella in the house is to bring bad luck

• An itchy palm means money will come your way

• A beginner will always have good luck: beginner's luck

• A cat has nine lives

• Eating fish makes you smart

• Toads cause warts

• A cricket in the house brings good luck

Sounds familiar? Do you subscribe to any of these or know someone who does?

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Happy Birthday Reginia ~ 2012

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Dinner and a Movie

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Somewhere out there in the "Land of Love" there is a couple or 10 who are trying to decide on the perfect first date. Eons ago, when I first started dating, it was expected and rather traditional for the first date to consist of dinner and a movie.

Let's fast forward to a new century. Since my first date, many things have transpired and I've kicked a many guy to the curb because the first date was all wrong. The traditional dinner and a movie hoopla are a no-no for me. I mean who wants to sit next to a stranger between 90-120 minutes risk his hands, hot breath, and weird vibes. *lowers hand - NOT ME. Therefore, I encourage short, trendy first dates to simply gauge what's what. You may have found Mr. What's His Name via online, a hook up, by chance or stalking; either way, the first date is important.

My suggestions are; coffee shops, book stores, a "vibing" lounge, happy hour, a tech bar, or appetizers at the hip restaurant. First dates should be quick and fun. Most sane people can determine general character and vibes. Why plan for a long drawn out date for a maybe? Why chance it? Who has that type of time?

                                                                                                       
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What's your idea of a great first date? What did you do with your catch?

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Warning; Brow Beating Ahead!

A woman's beauty is one of her greatest treasures. Though "beauty" is in the eye of the beholder (as the cliche' goes) beauty and appearance are cousins, therefore they are "hand & hand".

One of the most noted trends in beauty and fashion is the revolution of the eye brow. Revolution, you say. Yes ma'am the "Revolution of the Eyebrow". There is such great attention given to the transformation of the brow. Women across the world are giving greater lust to their eyebrows because it is a key element in framing the face, creating an alluring appearance, and for some, shaking the once unibrow. 

As evolution and transformation goes, great things spawn and tales of tragic loom. (insert sigh here). Welp, unfortunately, there are many, many, many, tales of tragic as it relates to the transformation of the brow. If you are into fashion, or a fashion or beauty blogger, you've seen tragedy on Youtube and on MUA blogs. This post in no means is passage to "throw shade" or call anyone out, but, it's an alignment with creating a better brow for the good of mankind. OK. Let's get started shall we.

1. Good-bye Natural Brow

In my opinion (IMO), removing the natural brow to only draw them back on is the worst offense EVER. This has been one of the greatest eyebrow offenses for decades. Ladies and drag queens too, please stop. It's really not a good look. 

2. Dramatic brow

O_o. This nonsense started in around 2005 or so from what I can remember. Um why? Why in the world would any person create a Teen Wolf effect on their face. Unless hairy is the new sexy, please stop.

3. Brow Creativity.

Amateur, novice, kitchentician MUAs, this is primary your fault. I know it's hard breaking into the fashion/beauty industry. I know that one must create a bounty of authenticity to stand before the crowd, but please take it from me, this Create-a-Brow AIN'T it. Stop it.

There are several other brow offenses in and about someone's "beauty" but it's 2012 so just stop it. Ok. This is a PSA from me, with light and love of course. There are several women, and drag queens too, who are doing it swell in 2012, therefore that post is to come.

In your opinion, what are the greatest brow offenses?

These pictures were found on the internet and none were taken by me. I wouldn't do such a thing.

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Reality TV - My Favorites

Everybody knows that reality TV is one of the hottest trends in network programming. There are reality shows based on every genre that one can imagine. The span includes housewives, dieters, thrill seekers, money makers, makeovers, cooking, and the list goes on.

I've been a reality TV connoisseur since the early 90s with the launch of Real World - New York on MTV. It's been almost 20 years since my love affair with reality TV began and I don't see it ending soon. I must admit, the "realness" of these shows have taken a huge decline. Many of the shows are scripted and deeply contrived, so my viewing pleasures are somewhat limited these days.

Below is a list of a few of my favorite personalities:

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Phaedra is my absolute favorite of all the housewives on any series. Though she may not be a housewife in the traditional sense, her talents far exceed any reality show title. I like Phaedra because she's smart, southern, witty, and able to roll with the flow. Her fashions are fly. There's something about intelligent Type A personalities that just screams swell - this is so Phaedra. This season, I get to see more interactions between she, Apollo, and baby Aden. Baby Aden is such a cutie. I want to see more of Phaedra's mom. She's a hoot and I'm her namesake.So with that...Everybody knows that Phaedra Parks is my weekly watch. Get it Phaedra.

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Lisa is my favorite member of the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. IMO, she's the picture of a real housewife. She's pretty, involved, well-dressed, and she is NOT the bread winner. She also has the 80s glam which I love. The way she interacts with her husband tickles me to no end. Though she's the eldest of the group, she doesn't act like some matriarch. She's lively and sophisticated.

PS. I've eaten at Villa Blanca and it's quite good. If you're ever in Beverly Hills, this is a must try. I shared the Baked King Crab Rolls and I had the Roasted Prime Filet Mignon.

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T.I. and Tiny: The Family Hustle is my newest fav. They are the absolute cutest couple ever. Their dynamic makes them such a likable pair. Both are soooooo southern and have the Atlanta charm down to a sweet potato science. I'd love to spend the day with the both of them at a summer cookout. They seem like they'd be the best hosts: refreshing your sweet tea, bringing another rib or five, great music playing...you know the perfect summer set up. I don't know why I think of summer BBQ's with them, I just do. 

I will be tuned in to them for the rest of the season.

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Drita, Drite, Drita! Drita is the gritty vixen from Mob Wives. I like Drita because she's a no nonsense kind of girl. Though she's a bit of a hot head, she seems very likable and loyal. She's the good girlfriend that you can talk to no matter what. IMO, Drita and I could hang, kick it, and pal around NYC. See, she's straight from the hip most times, and I dig people like that. "Love me some Drita". 

Reality TV is one of my guilty pleasures? What about you?

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Black-Eyed Peas & Collard Greens

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A good southern person knows that black-eyed peas and collards greens are the symbols of good luck for the new year. Therefore as I tap, tug, and sometimes hide my southern roots, I follow the prototype of their calling.

On or around January 1, 2012, it was my duty to prepare a dish for our annual New Year's Couples Brunch.

(pause)


Yes, I'm very much single and still very much attended the couple's brunch. It was my idea and I'm the matriarch, so I shall attend. RIGHT. RIGHT (Let's digress shall we).


This year, I decided I would make the grand dish of black-eyed peas and collard greens. You'd think after the incident with the chicken spaghetti, I'd cool it for a minute, but I didn't. So, here's what happened. I decided to be fancy and tried a black-eyed pea dip instead of the traditional dish. I figured, new year, new things, and the dish looked easy enough. It was, kind of.

I found the recipe on Pinterest, it had rave reviews, so you know......

It required few ingredients and minimal time (sort of). The end result was good, not great, but good. I suggest a bit more salt and pepper, Rotel instead of salsa, and the baking time is 1 hr instead of 30 mins. Also, I used two cans of peas, not fresh ones, added Mexican corn, and voila, a hit among friends. 

PS. I made the greens the traditional way & you may find the recipe in the link above.

Do you follow any traditions for New Year's Day? How about the bid for black eyed-peas and collard greens?

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