Archives for January 2008

Sleeping Beauty

January 22, 2008

I don’t know about you, but I love to sleep. In fact, I’d rather take a nap than go shopping! Ok, maybe I don’t love it that much, but it’s definitely one of my favorite pasttimes.

On the weekends especially during the winter months, I sleep for at least 11 hours on Friday and Saturday. Even though I sometimes feel guilty for sleeping in, I always awake feeling rejuvenated and refreshed. Studies have shown that we need 7-9 hours of sleep in order to function properly so I guess I’m getting my fair share.

Getting sleep can help improve our brains, heart rate, increase our metabolism, boost our immune system and prevent aging amongst many other health benefits.

I remember reading that singing sensation Mariah Carey and actress/singer Jennifer Lopez both swear by getting at least 8 hours of sleep every night no matter what. Maybe that’s why mom-to-be J. Lo always has that glow…either that or a good bronzer! If these super busy globe-trotting divas can find the time to get the recommended amount of sleep, I’m sure we can too!

If you have trouble sleeping, here are a few tips to getting some quality shut-eye:

1. Don’t watch television or surf the Internet 20 minutes prior to your desired bedtime
2. Perform a sleep preparatin routine each night (i.e wash face, brush teeth, etc.)
3. Limit caffeine and alcohol intake
4. Keep your bedroom quiet and peaceful (NO TVs!!)
5. Don’t eat a large or heavy meal before bedtime

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Category: Health | 10 Comments

Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day

January 21, 2008

Even though he left this earth 40 years ago, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s memory and legacy are still alive today. We BGs and guys should be especially grateful for his contribution toward making our lives better in this country. His unyielding desire for all people to be treated equally despite the color of their skin was remarkable. If it weren’t for his courage and others civil rights activists like him, we wouldn’t be where we are today.

Take a moment out of your day to stop and reflect and honor this outstanding man’s legacy. Be sure to check out your local newpapers or go online to find MLK-related events taking place in your area today.

Also, be sure to watch Oprah’s special show today (check your local listings) in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

He may be gone physically, but his dream will live forever!

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Category: Uncategorized | 5 Comments

Pull Your Card

January 17, 2008

We BGs are always networking and mingling. With professional socializing comes the task of exchanging business cards. Whether you hand out your company-issued business card or your side hustle card, pulling this pertinent piece of information from a chic card holder will always add that extra polish to your professional swagger.

Even though we live in an ever-increasing technological world, handing out your contact information on a rectangular piece of good card stock is still relevant. I’m not saying that you won’t immediately take the data you get from the business card and transmit it into your latest cutting-edge PDA, but you have to get the card first.

From a graduate student to a CEO of a Fortune 500 company, exchanging business cards is a must. You never know where your card or someone else’s may lead!

Check out some of these fabulous business card holders:

Available at www.giftsforprofessionals.com for $10.95

Available at www.giftsforprofessionals.com for $12.95

Available at www.redenvelope.com from $45-$50

Available at www.executivegiftshoppe.com for $31

Available at www.macys.com for $14

Available at www.giftsforprofessionals.com for $17.95

Available at www.redenvelope.com from $45-50

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Category: Career, Gifts | 7 Comments

The Honeymoon is Over!

January 16, 2008

According to People magazine, it looks like the union between Eddie Murphy and Tracey Edmonds has reached it’s end. The couple has allegedly separated after a mere 2 weeks. Although the union in Bora, Bora wasn’t completely official since it took place outside of the U.S., the couple was supposed to get married legally in the states, which is not going to happen now.

Is anyone shocked by this? I’m not, but I will say that I didn’t expect them to call it quits this quickly. Was it all for publicity? Who knows? There have been rumors and speculation about Eddie’s sexual preference. Perhaps there’s some truth to his “suspicious” relationship with his best friend who was also his best man, R&B singer Johnny Gill.

In this situation, I feel sorry for all parties involved, especially their children.

BTW…thanks for the heads-up K-Bear!

What do you guys think about it?

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Category: News | 16 Comments

Brush Stroke

January 16, 2008

Any professional makeup artist will tell you that the most important tool to achieving a flawless look is a makeup brush. Neither the top of the line concealer, foundation, eye shadow or blush/bronzer will successfully produce your desired look without being applied and blended with a proper makeup brush.

Brushes help you apply your makeup smoothly with accuracy and precision, which enhances your overall look. Also, you need to be sure to use the right brush for specific areas of your face. To cover all bases, invest in a good set that includes a variety of brushes.

Remember, you don’t have to be a professional to use brushes! MAC brushes happen to be my favorite brand, but check out some of these:

Sephora brushes available at www.sephora.com for $150

Smashbox brushes available at www.sephora.com $84

Too Faced brushes available at www.sephora.com for $72

Pop-up brush canister set available at www.sephora.com for $45

Sephora brushes available at www.sephora.com for $44

Sephora brushes available at www.sephora.com for $32

MAC brushes available at www.maccosmetics.com $132.50

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Category: Beauty, Fashion | 4 Comments

Ms. Winfrey Gets Her “O”wn TV Network

January 15, 2008

Just when you thought that Oprah’s empire couldn’t get any bigger, it just has. The veteran TV talk show host and mogul announced a deal today where the Discovery Health network will be turned over to her next year, becoming OWN — the Oprah Winfrey Network.

The cash-free transaction involved Winfrey turning over her Web site to Discovery, while the communications company makes her chairman of the network.

David Zaslav, the Discovery Communications chief says, “The focus of the channel will be the focus of Oprah’s brand, which is to educate and inspire people to live the best life they can.’’

“For me, the launch of ‘The Oprah Winfrey Network’ is the evolution of the work I’ve been doing on television all these years and a natural extension of my show,” says Winfrey.

There’s just no stopping the power of O!

One thing’s for sure, I will definitely be tuning in!

Additional reporting by Chicago Sun-Times

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Category: News | 12 Comments

In the Trenches

January 15, 2008

Recently, I caught a fabulous sale at one of my favorite stores – Macy’s. Even though the Macy’s located at 34th Street Herald Square here in New York can be packed with thousands of tourists, sale-seekers and slow-walking shoppers, I decided to brave the fashion jungle anyway.

For those of you who haven’t had the opportunity to visit “the largest department store in the world,” it isn’t for the faint of heart; it takes a die-hard shopper like myself to tackle such a fashion frenzy feat. But boy am I glad I did!!! That day I found a super cute, yet classic black Calvin Klein trench coat for only $106! I was thrilled because the trench was originally priced at $265. Plus, a trench can instantly add sophistication to your look.

As I fought my way in front of a mirror amongst the scores of frantic shoppers to see my reflection, it was love at first sight! I’ve always had a special place in my heart for coats. I don’t know what it is, but a fabulous coat is my fashion weakness. Once I whipped out my Visa gift card (a Christmas gift) to pay the cashier, I anxiously pondered when I’d be able to wear it since it was freezing when I purchased it.

Thanks to the undeniable effects of global warming last week, I was able to rock my new fashion find months earlier than expected. With this unpredictable weird weather, you too might find yourself pulling out your favorite trench before spring officiallly starts. So be prepared!

In the meantime, check these out:

Rampage Alaya trench available at Macy’s www.macys.com for $68