December 30, 2014

Top 4 Posts Women Loved in 2014


 
Hi BLUSH Beauty,
This has been an amazing year sharing inspiration to women all over the world!  I hope you enjoyed the weekly blog posts I poured my love into.

In two days we’ll be saying bye-bye to 2014 and hello to 2015!  So what better way to end the year by recapping BLUSH Society's top 4 blog post from 2014.

December 23, 2014

The #1 Secret You Should Never Keep When Dating


 
During the start of my holiday break, I had a chance to catch up on some of my reality shows.  Love and Hip Hop was one of them and I was truly floored by one of the scenes. 

Long story short, a cast member was dating a guy for over two years. She strongly felt this relationship would lead to a promising future.  But there was one problem- she decided to keep a major secret from him.  The secret was that she had a six year old daughter… you do the math.

December 16, 2014

5 Corny Ways to Say "I LOVE YOU"

 

Today, I honor the life of my granddad Jimmy as I express my love and appreciation for the amazing memories we created.  The only thing promised in life is death...which also happens to be the hardest thing to mentally wrap your mind around when you lose a love one. 
As I reflect on the good olde times, I’m grateful for the opportunities to tell my granddad “I LOVE YOU.” 

December 9, 2014

4 Quotes to Cope With Grief During the Holidays




A few posts ago, I shared a special prayer for my granddad.  It’s with great sadness that I share that he passed away.  My grandparents were indeed two peas in a pod!   I’m lost for many words, but I thank God that he granted my family time to spend with him on Thanksgiving and over the weekend. 

December 2, 2014

4 Scriptures to a New Year's Resolution





Say hello to new beginnings,

What better time to start thinking about your New Year’s Resolution than now!  Before January 1st rolls in, take some time in the month of December to assess your accomplishments in 2014 and set personal goals for 2015.

November 25, 2014

November 18, 2014

Top 5 Quotes for Holiday Healing



 
 
 
 
Once in a while it’s easier to understand the meaning of a message by reading quotes.  Here are 5 quotes I would like to share that are perfect to prepare you mentally for this holiday season. 

Each quote was inspired by last Tuesday’s post: Every Woman Should Know About Holiday Healing.
 

November 11, 2014

Every Woman Should Know About Holiday Healing


 
Hi Ladies,
The holidays are vastly approaching! I want to encourage you to truly focus on the true essence of this holiday season.  Enjoy your time with family and friends and partake in spreading the love to others around you. 

I’m pretty sure you’ve heard this before but it’s critical that you fully understand my previous statement- Reread it if you must. 

November 4, 2014

Eliminate Stress in 5 Minutes




BLUSH Society’s Principle #3 is Spirituality.  It’s a necessity that you have a strong spiritual foundation.  Instead of always searching for answers and confirmation from others, you can tap into your own spirituality for guidance.
As women, it’s common that we see ourselves as Wonder Woman.  We take on so much responsibility that life becomes overwhelming. We feel obligated to carry the weight of everyone's problems around us on our shoulders. 

October 28, 2014

Prioritize Your 6 C's to Why Your Relationship is Suffering (Part 3)



I hope you didn't plan on just reading the 6 relationship C's without applying them to your life.  Now you are tasked to rank the 6 C's in order from 1 to 6 with 1 being the most important to your current relationship OR most important if you were dating.
Relationship Workout
Here are a few pointers for analyzing the significance of how you ranked your 6 C’s.

October 25, 2014

Which Look Would You Rock?



 

Hi BLUSH Beauty,

This post is all about Principle #1 Self and Principle #2 Style!  There’s nothing wrong with drawing style inspiration from others whose style you simply like or admire. 
Style is personal because it represents who you are as a person.  Believe it or not, your style creates that first impression before you even open your mouth to speak.

It’s always funny when someone makes the comment that you’re not yourself today solely based on how you look.  I’ve noticed even at work they expect me to look a certain way and if I’m off point in their eyes, the assumption is made that something must be wrong. 

October 21, 2014

6 C’s to Why Your Relationship is Suffering (Part 2)




I hope you enjoyed Part 1!  I had to leave the top 3 critical C’s to Why Your Relationship is Suffering for Part 2.  Continue reading to get advice on how to find that happy medium in your relationship.
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C4:  COMMUNICATION

October 18, 2014

Learn From Ali’s 2 Week Marriage




We've all been here at some point in our life where that inner voice told us to run and don't look back.  But instead we blow it off as having a bad day or just not the right time to pack up and leave.   

October 16, 2014

5 Trends You Must Wear This Fall




TREND #1: SNOW WHITE 
Pic courtesy of E Online

Looking for that wow factor at this year's holiday party.  Try wearing all white suiting... besides it represents purity!
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TREND #2 & #3: SHINGLE FEVER & GLADIATORS

October 14, 2014

6 C’s to Why Your Relationship is Suffering (Part 1)



We all find happiness in the relationships we cherish.  Healthy relationships provide hope, excitement and fill the void of love that we all want to experience in life.  But what happens when you lose that connection- read Part 1 of 6 C’s to Why Your Relationship is Suffering.

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C1:  CHEMISTRY


The easiest thing to do is to mistaken lust for love.  But when your eight weeks, eight months or eight years into your relationship, can you honestly say there’s an authentic connection.

October 7, 2014

3 Common Myths About Breast Cancer



 

October is the official Breast Cancer Awareness Month.  Just when you thought you knew everything about how to detect Breast Cancer and what causes it-  here are 3 common myths about Breast Cancer that you probably second guessed.  

Last year, I had the opportunity to participate in a Susan G. Komen breast cancer walk and a Zumba fundraiser for the cause.  If you don’t have a chance to actively participate in a Breast Cancer event this year, be social. Share the facts and encourage the women and men you love to complete self-examinations.

September 30, 2014

Is Your Relationship a Hot Mess?



I love watching Investigation Discovery!  It’s not hard to find a story of a woman who conspired or committed murder for her lover because she was deeply in love.

…And your first thought would probably be that she’s right down crazy or stupid.  But the mere truth is that in the supernatural sense, someone had control over her mind.

When you’re crazy in love or should I say reckless with love, you believe crap and do foolish things.  You blindly believe the fairy tale and fall so hard for love that you surrender your power and start doing and believe anything.

September 23, 2014

Look at What I’m Reading This Fall!





 Fall is officially here ladies!  

I love magazines and this week, I had a chance to open up my book of inspiration and found 3 things I would love to share!  It’s so therapeutic when I get a few minutes to flip through magazines. 

I love tearing out pages of inspiration.  The amazing thing about knowledge is that it never gets old.  For with every new chapter in our life, the essence of a message will always ring true.

Glamour.com:  11 Times You Still Need Your Mother

September 16, 2014

The Beauty Secrets Behind Photoshop


 
I’m guilty of being awe-struck by magazine covers when I’m at the gym.  The celebs look so perfect- if only I exercise for 10 more minutes, I’ll have that space between my thighs.
Don’t believe the hype.  Beauty is truly in the eye of the beholder. 


Here are 6 different ways the picture of the woman above was photoshopped in 6 different countries.  Moral to the story... let's learn to love ourselves by defining our own definition of beauty instead of being brainwashed by society’s false portrayal of the perfect woman.

September 11, 2014

Are Your Hips Spreading Like Rumors?




Of course your hips are spreading!   You had too much fun this summer eating whatever you wanted.  But, you do know that the holiday party pictures are right around the corner.  So join me on my healthy lifestyle journey A.K.A. losing weight baby!

I really did go back to the gym on last week.  I had no choice because it’s the only way for me to move the pounds... plus release stress and regain my energy.  

September 9, 2014

Let’s Talk About Ray Rice and Domestic Violence




BLUSH SOCIETY can’t ignore the events surrounding the Ray Rice video that emerged today of a public display of domestic violence.  For this nightmare could have been your story or is your story now.
The bigger question is “Do you think his then-fiancé acted out of LOVE or FEAR to marry him after the incident occurred?

September 2, 2014

Are You Ready to Follow Your Dream?





Get over it! … Real women don’t consider starting over a failure.  They just take life as a lesson learned and bust their butts to pick up the pieces and move on.  That’s exactly what I have to remind myself.

You’ve probably heard this message Follow Your Dream a million times, but not quite like this.  So watch this week’s message:  “Are You Ready to Follow Your Dream?” 

August 26, 2014

3 Things I'm Happy About



 
SELF: ARE YOU ON AN EMOTIONAL ROLLER COASTER?
You won’t be happy always… that was my story this weekend.  I can’t blame it all on PMS, but knowing was half the battle.  Ladies, when you’re unhappy it’s a good thing to separate yourself from others.  There’s nothing wrong with needing some alone time to gather your thoughts and avoid acting out of anger. 

August 19, 2014

BLUSH BUZZ: Fall 2014 Bucket List




Hi BLUSH Beauty, BLUSH Society is remixing the weekly post to bring you unexpectedly exciting inspiration to positively influence your Self, Style and Spirituality.

This morning I walked outside and could smell Fall in the air.  Now is the time to start preparing yourself for the new season with August’s edition of BLUSH BUZZ: Bucket List.  Check out BLUSH Society’s top 6 trendy picks for Fall 2014.

August 12, 2014

Are You the Next BLUSH BOSS?




Are you or someone you know have a successful business, hobby or new career they are truly happy about?  BLUSH Society is looking for the next BLUSH Boss for our new blog feature.

If you’re a woman and your work is your happy space, I would love to spotlight you as the next BLUSH BOSS.    

Highly Interested?

August 5, 2014

Why I’m Happy About Self, Style and Spirituality





It’s always a good time to get acquainted with BLUSH Society’s three guiding principles.  This week, find out how Homemade Brownies, Master Bedroom Remodel and Prayer for Grand-pop’s Healing manifested happiness as it relates to my Self, Style and Spirituality. 

Each principle is designed to bring a balance to your life and ultimately create moments of happiness.  They are essentially the foundation to living a purpose filled life.

July 29, 2014

Hello Mr. & Mrs. Who?

 
 
 
Hi Ms. Jackson- you know who you are!  This week’s topic is Part II of our friendly debate, “When is the right time to legally change your last name after getting hitched.” 
Ask yourself, is it a sign of being submissive as a wife or is it just plain, old tradition?

July 22, 2014

Tell the Truth Tuesday About Committed Relationships



When you reach a certain age in life, as a woman there are things on your bucket list that no matter what must happen.   Every six months, you glance at your list, only to be emotionally upset to find that the box next to “Mr. Right” still hasn’t been checked.

You are not alone.  

Relationships are one of the #1 things we associate happiness with.  And you’re likely guilty of attaching some sort of time limit like a specific age as to when it must happen.

Find out my response to this week's Tell the Truth question: Is it a bad thing that I feel lonely and unhappy that I’m not in a committed relationship?  

July 15, 2014

Find A Hobby That Brings You Happiness






Are you working in a job that’s boring?  You are not alone and could probably benefit tremendously from a change of pace or scenery.   

In the meantime, I highly recommend that you find a creative outlet outside of the office that allows you to fill your free time.  Maybe it’s time to Find A Hobby That Brings You Happiness.

July 8, 2014

I’m Happy About 3 Simple Things



 

It’s the simple things in life that truly evokes small moments of happiness.  No matter what’s not going right, right now, it’s the little things you have to treasure.

Over the 4th of July weekend, I spent some good, quality time with my family.  It didn’t cost me a thing, besides the macaroni salad I made.  But on a serious note, it was filled with fabulous moments of happiness.

July 4, 2014

SPECIAL DELIVERY: BLUSH BUZZ

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HEALTHY PLEASURES

I’m a girl who loves easy recipes!  Last week, I had dinner at the Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel.  Here’s a pic I snapped of my delicious salad.

I’ll be trying this at my next gathering with the girls.  Instead of a boring house salad try this fruit lover’s salad.

It’s just 5 simple ingredients and you can use as much or little as you like: Fresh Spring Mix Lettuce, Tomatoes, Pear, Goat Cheese with Balsamic Vinaigrette. 

Oh did you know that tomatoes are considered a fruit.  And if you don’t like pears, try strawberries or watermelon.  Remember your food should be as colorful as your outfits, evoking feelings of boldness, creativity and yumminess.

July 1, 2014

Summer Hair Care 101

 



I am so lucky to have sisters to do my hair.  From my wraps, braids and weaves they are there to help me out.  My main hairstylist is my sister Lee, who tried a new updo that I’ve been nagging her about for the last few weeks.  It turned out to be the perfect hairstyle for my trip to Kings Dominion. I know I’ll be surely rubbing it in the whole for the summer :).  

Hair is one of the easiest ways to create a small ounce of self-happiness in your life! But in order to keep that happiness long after you've taken your hair out, it's essential to know the importance of hair care.

June 24, 2014

3 Reasons to Wake Up and Smell the Coffee

Life is full of twists and turns.  Making the right turn in life depends on knowing when to make the right move.  Do you find yourself in situations where you continuously go back and forth with trying to decide if you should stay or go, accept or decline, keep or give?

Think of the last time you found yourself torn between making a tough decision.  You probably wasted precious time pondering over the situation and looking for advice, when the answer was looking you in the face, the entire time. 

June 17, 2014

Are You the "Negative Nancy" in the Room?



I hope you had an amazing weekend celebrating Father's Day.  Summer is truly here!  It was the perfect weather to flip through my book of inspiration and spend some quality time outside on the deck with my family.   

A pop up visit to my aunt and uncle's house with my mom plus sister, turned into fun conversations chatting mostly about amazing business ventures.  I had a fabulous time with all the positivity and laughter in the air while indulging in cupcakes and my favorite dish, pizza.

June 10, 2014

The Writings on the Wall





When you lose a love one, it’s one of the most devastating moments in your life.  Many times you don’t quite understand the “why” behind why they had to die.  The first time I came face to face with understanding death and the toll it takes on your family is when my sister, Shonda passed away. 

I was only 13 years old when this tragedy left me with a broken heart and living in what I pictured was a horrible nightmare.  All the sympathy cards in the world could not bring comfort to my soul.  

June 3, 2014

3 Tips for Creating Happy Relationships



After being married going on 6 years, which I still pinch myself sometimes, I've learned a thing or two about the art of crafting healthy and happy relationships.  I was blessed to build a relationship with someone I first considered a friend.  Plus, he was my neighbor and my chess-playing buddy.
I’d be telling a lie if I told you it’s an easy, breezy stroll through the park balancing yourself and relationships.  I loved riding see-saws as a child, but no woman really wants to deal with the highs and lows that come with relationships.

May 27, 2014

My 3 Favorite Things for Organizing Accessories

 
 
If you love accessories as much as I do, I know you'll appreciate this week’s message, My 3 Favorite Things for Organizing Accessories.  Here at BLUSH Society, one of our three guiding principles is Style.  When it comes to Style, no outfit is complete without the right accessories.
Accessories can take a boring outfit and personalize it in a stylish, show-stopping way.  I've also discovered that accessories are a great networking tool!  I can't begin to count how many times my jewelry selection was a true conversation piece that sparked connections with other ladies.

May 20, 2014

My Scar is My Story



After hearing about Beyoncé’s family fiasco made public for the whole world to see, I immediately saw the bigger picture in what every woman could learn from her situation.  It was very simple and could easily be explained from my personal experience of burning my hand.

You may be a little puzzled with how these two situations relate, but you will soon learn that My Scar is My Story.  When I was in college, one of my favorite gourmet dinners to make was a caesar salad, Stouffer's chicken alfredo entree and hot biscuits.  One night while cooking, I went to remove my biscuits from the oven, when immediately I felt a hot sensation on the side of my hand.

May 13, 2014

#1 Reason Why You're Not on the Guest List




When was the last time you were invited to an event and forgot to RSVP … oops, it happens even with all the smart phones in the world.  But when it happens over and over again, it becomes crystal clear that there’s a bigger issue at hand.

It’s becoming the norm that women are blatantly not responding to invites or infamously providing excuses as a way to decline their attendance to an event.  Well I have news for you, that’s the #1 Reason Why You're Not on the Guest List.

May 6, 2014

Can You Sense the 3 Things I am Happy About?



Hi BLUSH Beauty,

Last week, I was at Macy’s with my husband in the men’s department when I saw an older gentleman shopping for a robe with his daughter.  As we were browsing through the clothing racks, I overheard him describing the color, length and texture of the robe he wanted.  Then, he tried on the robe and reached down to ensure it was the right length.  As he expressed excitement that he found the perfect robe, I looked up and realized the man was blind.
In that moment, my heart was filled with sentiment as I expressed to my husband that it’s the simple things in life that we take for granted.  Like our five senses, we overlook the daily blessings given to us to hear, see, touch, smell or taste.

April 29, 2014

RHOA Tell the Truth Tuesday


Do you have a question that peaks your curiosity?  Feel free to send your questions to BLUSH Society to be answered during our new segment called Tell the Truth Tuesday. 

First, I want to express my gratitude for BLUSH Society as we reach women across state lines!  I received a question from Debbie in Texas:  I was watching the Real Housewives of Atlanta (RHOA) and was wondering, “How do you avoid allowing someone to bring you out of your character?”
If you look at the FAQ page on the blog, I share that one of the things I draw inspiration from is reality TV shows.  Once you cut through the drama, you will actually see the hustle, passion and life experiences of people that are really like you and I.  Sometimes seeing others mistakes or shortcomings is therapeutic.  Not only is it invaluable lessons learned, but it triggers wonderful questions like this for Tell the Truth Tuesday. 

April 22, 2014

HI SIS! (Part 2)

I hope you had a chance to take at least 5 minutes to yourself and ponder about the one thing that is truly affecting your self-esteem at this very moment. Once you have that issue in mind, you are ready to rebuild your Sexy, Irresistible Self-esteem.  Don’t get hung up on the title, it’s just a fun way to get you fired up about addressing your self-esteem issues.  
This two part series is a simple way for you to increase your level of self-confidence and self-acceptance.  We all have our personal standards of how we envision our life to be.  But too often, life throws a curve ball and as women we have to roll with the punches and make the best of our situation.  When this happens, your self-esteem is tested.

April 15, 2014

HI SIS! (Part 1)

Hi Happy Lady!

Now is the time to face the music and acknowledge that your happiness will not be released until you address your self-esteem issues.  Today, join me in saying Hi SIS! aka Hi to your Sexy, Irresistible Self-esteem.

Did you know that every aspect of your life affects your self-esteem? Together we can expose the unspoken truth that mature women “do” have self-esteem issues.  This is the key to unlocking the door to your blessings and happiness in life.