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Dreams Fulfilled!!

January 21, 2009

Yesterday will be etched in my memory forever – the day that the first African-American became president of the United States! I can’t even begin to describe the exhilaration of witnessing it at the Mall in Washington, D.C. amongst hundreds of thousands of others. Despite the cold winds the energy of the crowd was electrifying. There really was no other place that I would have rather been (well maybe sitting up close like the politicians and dignitaries of course 🙂 because witnessing President Barack Obama take oath in D.C. was simply priceless.

I’m extremely tired because I just got back to NYC this morning. I have photos from the Obama exhibit, “Manifest Hope” gallery that I will share tomorrow.

Were you in D.C. or did you watch it from home, work, etc.?

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Category: Uncategorized | 20 Comments

Bringing Brown-Bagging It Back!

January 15, 2009

Shopping is definitely one of my biggest weaknesses and the ongoing, outrageous sales are not helping me in my effort to save. Since I know that I will have a hard time resisting a reasonably priced dress, I have to be smart and cut back spending in other areas. My cutback of choice has been dining out during the week.

For the last few weeks, I’ve been consistently bringing my lunch to work. I prepare my meals for the week on Sunday or simply grab an inexpensive microwavable entrée. Buying pricey lunches can add up quickly. Studies have shown that you can save up to $2000 a year by packing your lunch for work. Plus, by not going out for lunch can eliminate the temptation of stopping in a store to splurge. Looks like being frugal is in fashion!

Do you brown girls brown-bag it? If so, what meals do you usually bring? Please share your easy, inexpensive lunch ideas.

**The winner of the fitness DVDs is T!! Please email me your mailing address. Congrats!

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Category: Food | 28 Comments

Get in Gear!

January 14, 2009

Since we’re a mere 2 weeks into the New Year, hopefully those who have made a resolution to lose weight or to live an overall healthier lifestyle haven’t fallen off of the wagon just yet! Although working out did not make my resolutions list this year (or ever), it really should be taken seriously and implemented into our daily routines or at least a few times a week. The benefits of working out are abundant and our bodies will thank us accordingly.

Maybe these super cute fitness accessories will jump start my mood to hit the gym. Wishful thinking!

How often do you work out? What’s your favorite indoor exercise?

Everlast Boxing Gloves available at www.lucy.com for $30

Cap Barbell 32 lb. Neoprene Dumbbell Set available at www.modells.com for $59.99

Resistance Tubes by Natural Fitness available at www.lucy.com for $12

Adidas Alexia Mesh Fitness Shoe available at www.modells.com for $64.99

Valeo 65″ cm Pink Body Exercise Ball w/Pump available at www.uniquefit1.com for $19.99

Apple iPod Arm Band available at www.apple.com for $29

Jansport Duffel Bag available at www.modells.com for $59.99

Jeanette Jenkins “The Hollywood Trainer” (Queen Latifah’s personal trainer) Workout Videos: Cardio Dance and Sexy Arms, Abs and Legs DVD available at www.thehollywoodtrainervideo.com for $19.95 each

**One lucky reader will win both fitness DVDs (a value of $40). Just leave a comment and a winner will be selected randomly and announced tomorrow!

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Category: Health | 30 Comments

Affordable Accessories to Update Your Wardrobe!

January 13, 2009

Since we’re all feeling a bit of a pinch in our pocketbooks lately, buying new clothes is definitely not at the top of our to-do-lists. So what’s a fashion-loving BG to do? Well, one of the most cost-effective ways to satisfy expensive shopping urges is to simply update your look with low-priced accessories. Jewelry, belts and other accessories can instantly add flair to the gorgeous garments already in your closet. Have fun and play with the possibilities!

Have you cut back your spending on clothes or are you just a sucker for the sensational sales? I think I’m somewhere in between!

Check out a few of these fab accessories all under $20!:

City Style Pyramid Stud Belt available at www.nyandcompany.com for $13.96

Drape Chain Necklace available at www.ardenb.com for $19.60

Hammered Metal Hoops available at www.charlotterusse.com for $4

Chunky Knit Beret available at www.delias.com for $10.50

Polished Bar Necklace available at www.forever21.com for $9.80

Fifirofi Animal Print Wood Bangles available at www.aldoshoes.com for $9.98

Chunky Cocktail Ring available at www.urbanoutfitters.com for $16.99

Triple Link Mesh Earrings available at www.ardenb.com for $16.80

Hardware Bangle available at www.frenchconnection.com for $9.99 (orig. $38!)

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Category: Fashion | 19 Comments

Cream of the Crop

January 12, 2009

As you guys know, I’m always on the prowl for pretty blushes and bronzers. My latest obsession with these cheek-enhancing products is cream blush. I’ve been using one brand in particular for the past couple of weeks just to switch things up a bit since winter arrived.

I’ve found that using cream-based blushes are actually great alternatives to powder blushes during the colder months because they add a bit of much-needed moisture to dry skin. Plus, they provide an enviable dewy look that is usually only attainable during the warm seasons. So go ahead and get a head start on summer with a sexy, creamy cheek color. TIP: Berry-hues, dark reds and deep pinks are the most complementary on many BG skin tones.

Have you ever used a cream blush? If so, what are your thoughts?

Jane Iredale Cream Blush available at www.janeiredaledirect.com for $26

Nars Cream Blush available at www.nordstrom.com for $23.50

Clinique Blush Wear Cream Stick available at www.saks.com for $18.50

M-A-C Blushcream available at www.nordstrom.com for $18

DuWop Blush Therapy Retreat available at www.skinstore.com for $22

Prescriptives Blush More or Less Creamy Color available at www.prescriptives.com for $21.50

Revlon Cream Blush with Pop-up Mirror available at www.drugstore.coom for $8.81

Ulta Cream Blush available at www.ulta.com for $6.50

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Category: Beauty | 22 Comments

Notorious!

January 8, 2009

A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of catching a press screening of the upcoming film, Notorious. This biopic based on the life of the late rapper, Christopher Wallace better known as the “Notorious B.I.G” or “Biggie Smalls” gives viewers a glimpse into the world of the legendary lyricist from his rise to fame until his untimely death.

Most of the actors do an excellent job portraying their famous characters, especially breakout star Jamal Woolard who plays Biggie. However, Derek Luke as “Puff Daddy” (his moniker back then) wasn’t exactly what I was expecting – I guess Puff’s unique swagger just can’t be copied.

Overall, it was a respectable movie that I’m sure hip-hop fans and moviegoers around the world will enjoy; it’s just too bad Biggie isn’t here to witness it.

Do you plan on seeing, Notorious? Were you a fan of his music? If so, what is your favorite song by him?

Check out the trailer:

In theaters nationwide on Friday, January 16th!

P.S For those readers in NYC, did you notice how the Union Square – 14th Street train station is like a huge billboard for the movie!! LOL

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Category: Movie Reviews | 24 Comments

Cleaning Out My Closet!

January 7, 2009

Now that we’re all starting fresh due to the New Year, taking inventory of our closets is definitely in order. This past weekend, I decided to purge some items that are no longer welcome in my wardrobe. For a few of the garments I found myself asking, “What was I thinking when I bought this,” or “was this ever in style?”

Those unflattering fashions were donated to my local charity while others were turned in for cold-hard cash at Beacon’s Closet, a NYC-based store where you can sell, trade and donate clothes.

If you decide to clean out your closet, be sure to hang on to these timeless pieces that will take you from season to season!

LBD (these frocks are my weakness…you can never have too many!)

Lightweight scarf (perfect for chilly days or summer nights)

White cotton/Spandex blend t-shirt (long & short sleeve – the most versatile item I own!)

Cashmere cardigan (if not cashmere, any fabric in this sweater style will do!)

What do you do with your unwanted clothes? Do you swap with friends, donate or hold on to them hoping you’ll fit into them again or they’ll come back in style?

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Category: Fashion | 25 Comments

Vintage…

January 6, 2009

While I was in the store, I noticed a lot of vintage and super stylish attire for unbelievable prices. I’ve never been a fan of used clothing, but with the little help of a dry cleaner all is forgiven! During these tough financial times, reinventing your wardrobe just might include taking a trip to a nearby consignment or thrift store!

What do you

Category: Uncategorized | Leave a Comment

Beat the Winter Skin Blues!

January 6, 2009

Since winter is here to stay for the next few months, now is definitely NOT the time to skimp on moisturizing! Harsh winter winds can wreak havoc on our skin if not properly treated. The best way to protect it during these cold days is to use a facial moisturizer (ideally with SPF 15). I never leave the house without applying a double dose of Oil of Olay; it’s the best for maintaining a healthy glow, while combatting dull, winter-ridden skin!

Do you double-up your daily moisturizing routine during the winter? If so, what is your favorite brand?

Check out some of these top moisturizers!

Oil of Olay Complete Daily Moisturizer available at www.drugstore.com for $10.99

Juice Beauty Organic Facial Moisturizer Concentrate available at www.sephora.com for $36

Hope in a Jar Moisturizer available at www.sephora.com for $15

Cetaphil UVA/UVB Defense Facial Moisturizer SPF-50 available at www.drugstore.com for $13.99

Ambi Facial Moisturizer available at www.target.com for $9.49

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Moisturizer SPF 15 (4 oz.) available at www.barneys.com $29.50

Dove Deep Moisture Facial Cream available at www.skinstore.com for $6.99

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Category: Beauty | 19 Comments

Off to a Great Start!

January 5, 2009

Happy New Year!! I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season. I had an absolutely perfect time with my family during my trip to Chicago. Although the weather caused a bit of concern initially, ultimately I arrived safely.

I can’t believe it’s 2009!! There are quite a few things that I hope to accomplish within the next 12 months considering it will be my last full year in my fabulous 20s!

What are your hopes and goals for this year? Do you ever make resolutions? If so, do you ever keep them?

Here are a few of mine:

Enhance BGG!