Peaches Shrimp and Crab: Brooklyn Brunch

Let me start of by saying that I am a Brooklynite who doesn’t really brunch. I know, it doesn’t make sense. All the beautiful people in Brookyn get decked out (stylish not Sunday Best) to leisurely hang at their favorite brunch spot. They don’t mind waiting on long lines to feast on sweet and savory fare.

This weekend, a friend mentioned a brunch spot that serves Southern eats that is contemporary yet still homely. She showed me the food pics from Peaches Shrimp and Crab online and my tastebuds were immediately piqued.

I made the decision then and there that I was going to try the Shrimp and Grits. It would officially be my first time trying grits. I know, don’t ask. You don’t want to know. Fast forward and, well, my first taste of grits was worth the wait. This creamy, parmesan laced goodness was perfect and the shrimp was the quintessential compliment. Just all creaminess and melt in your mouth goodness.

The menu is simple but good.

The full bar just in case you want to skip the grits and head straight to the cocktails.

The Scene:

It is Christmas time so tree greeted us at the entrance. The decor is minimal and the walls are what looks like original brick from the old Brooklyn building.

There is a large glass window lined with real greenery, live plants.

Brooklyn is for the Fashionable Folk. There is a constant stream of stylish Brooklynites lounging and enjoying the scene.

For the folks who only check for ratings, the spot got an “A”.

December 20, 2017 2

Weekend Wind-down

It’s a treat for me to spend a weekend day in bed next to a lit candle, fresh flowers, fashions and Chrissy.

The winter weekends call for comfy, warm and inviting spaces as well as routines that include beauty and eats.

Curl up in bed eight your favorite magazine and slather on your best skin care products.

Ren Skincare is great for exfoliating and softening my face. My Instyle magazine is never too far behind. It keeps me posted on all of the latest trends.

A glass of red is good for the heart.

Treat yourself to a descent bottle directly from France. La Vielle Ferme is affordable and smooth.

Make a Meal.

Make yourself a fresh, healthy meal. Snag some fresh flowers and have a 4-star experience.

This goes beyond “self-care”. You don’t have to schedule time in your day to truly care for yourself. Care for yourself on a day to day basis. Self care does not even have to be a “thing”. Control your thoughts. Be kind to yourself and others in your mind me thoughts. Forgive. Focus on what makes you happy and fulfilled and smile.

December 16, 2017 0

Welcome BET Her

Did you notice a few months ago that your Centric TV switched over to BET Her? There were teaser promos for BET’s “Her” channel while Centric TV was still alive. I was excited to see the snippets of women of color who did not fit the convention for average body size and there weren’t women arguing or throwing drinks in the promos either! There were no reality show hijinks promised and I looked forward to it. Well, BET Her is now in full swing and I have to be honest, I have not watched as often as I wished. Whenever I tune in, I am never in luck to catch original programming. It’s Sunday, I’m typing and tuned into BET Her and the iconic movie, “Lean on Me” is on the air, followed by another iconic drama, “Set it Off”.

I would prefer some original programming on this Sunday afternoon though but I know how hard good content is to come by. It’s not easy for the blog writer nor the big networks, especially when they are creating for niche markets like women of color. But, do not despair! The website is chock full of really cool content to peruse.

Check it out: https://www.bet.com/bet-her.html

Love that there is content for personal fitness, travel, finance, women who inspire. All the goods! Recently, BET Her covered the fight against cancer by having real survivors speak to us directly through IG stories as they completed the fight against cancer walk in Prospect Park, Brooklyn. Real women are fighting real battles for themselves, their families and their communities and BET Her brings that to us directly. Well, they bring real women and definitely brings out the celebs who fight for the causes as well.

November 12, 2017 2

Low Carb? No. Slow Carb: Weight Loss Edition

For the month of November, my goal is to lose a few pounds before the holidays creep up on me. Yup, Thanksgiving, and Christmas sneak up on me like a thief in the night every year without fail. Well this year, I’ve devised a plan to cut off the holiday pounds before I even think of piling them on. It’s pure math, numbers. If I can lose a few now then I can afford to indulge in a hearty and savory meal or two. Plus, hopefully, I’ve put in enough work for the month that I won’t want to undo my hard work and indulge in every meal wholeheartedly.

I came across a blog/twitter post from Tim Ferriss recently that introduced me to a slow carb eating plan in order to really drop pounds rapidly. The plan is to eat a very limited variety of protein, veggies, and beans. It’s super simple. It looks a lot like the Atkins, Low Carb plan we all know but the addition of beans is a new concept for me. I love beans and they are packed with protein. The stern rule is to not have any white carb. Like any.

These delicious, crispy truffle fries…I can’t have any.

I can still have my black coffee (no sugar) to help me get through the day.

Clearly, this isn’t a sustainable plan and should not be followed beyond a month. It’s important to have a balanced eating plan and the low carb and even this slow carb plan ain’t it. The overall goal is to eat right and exercise but sometimes a girl needs a jumpstart. I need to see the number on the scale decrease. It’s motivating to see movement.

Oh, and don’t forget self-care. It can come in any form that is comfortable for you and should fit your lifestyle and budget. There is no need to buy a pricey plane ticket just to say that you took that vacation and post that passport picture on IG. If you can afford it the jet away but we can’t always flee. We can indulge in a home message (from your significant other) or spruce up your space and make your house feel like a home.

Take a long bath and then slather some awesome oil on your skin. @Sheamoisture

Upgrade your living space with a vibe that fits your lifestyle. @consort

November 3, 2017 0

Sweater Dress and Boots: Must Have for Fall

The air is getting crisp and the leaves are the color of mother nature’s sun when it sets. The beauty of Fall is that it’s not freezing cold or burning up hot. The temperature feels just right for cozy sweaters, boots, tall socks, long scarves. You get the picture!

One trend that I’ve been loving this season is the sweater dress (loose, not super tight) and tall boots. The look is perfect for the girls who brunch, a weeknight date or weekend out with the girls. It’s sexy but doesn’t look like you are trying too hard.

This French Connection cable trim sweater dress is perfect for the season and its cashmere blend. Swoon. www.frenchconnection.com

FC2 — If you prefer to do a pair of booties then feel free to pair it with your sweater dress.

Leave it to Zara to keep it funky. You’ve got to have swag to carry this look. www.zara.com

Give the weekend the cold shoulder in this cool cut-out. www.forever21.com

This is a casual yet sexy look. She is giving modern Bridgette Bardot feels in this blush tone. www.forever21.com

Drumroll for this oh, so perfect cable knit sweater dress. Brought to you by one of our favorite retailers, Target! The look is right and the price is right. (Praise Dance). www.target.com

October 17, 2017 0

Blonde Ambition

It’s fall and the leaves are turning/changing color. Mother Nature isn’t the only one who likes to switch it up. I do too? It’s time for my annual cut and color and I am truly contemplating going very light with my hair color, blonde.

Let me confess. I am a little overwhelmed by the amount of platinum blonde hair on women. I’m not a big fan of the look. It is over the top and most of the platinum blonde ladies I see fit the bill in the personality area so the hair falls in line with the attitudes. I am avoiding the platinum for now and looking into earth tones. The blondes you may find on those golden leaves that create beautiful fall scenery.

katghram — Kat Graham, Foster Grant’s spokesmodel is rocking the perfect mixture of warm blonde tones.

Ishteria — Designer, Shateria Moragne has the perfect cut, color, and curls. The trifecta.

You cannot go wrong with a short, sleek cut and golden tresses. Rihanna gets it right everytime.

That one time Chrisette Michelle did the “big chop” and then bleached her hair blonde. So fresh.

Gabrielle Union’s deep auburn and blonde combo is perfect for bringing the sun-kissed hair feel into Fall.

I am choosing a color combination and cut that will work great for straightened or curly hair. The commitment that I make by going blonde will definitely require routine hair care. It’s important to get regular deep conditions (to prevent dryness and damage) as well as shampoo and condition with products for color treated hair in order to help your color stay vibrant longer.

September 30, 2017 0

The Finance Bar/Curlbox: Financially Fine Wrap Up.

Myleik Teele, the Chief Experience Officer of Curlbox, teamed up with the good folks at The Finance Bar in order to bring us the wrap up for the Summertime Financially Fine Challenge. The ladies live streamed a conversation where the talk hovered around making sound financial decisions. This is a wrap-up of the conversation between Myleik and Melissa Chanel.

Finance Bar: What are the reasons to save?

Myleik:”The more money you save the more options you have.” Options give you the ability to move on from situations that you may want to leave or even venture out on.

Options give you the ability to move on from situations that you may want to leave or even move into situations you may want to venture out on.

Finance Bar: Discipline. What does it look like?

Myleik: “You’ve got to get tired of being broke.” It’s simple. The broke life is a joke life. The amount of money that you make does not determine how much you will save. The reality is that you must educate yourself on how to save and how to respect money. Create a zero balance that tells you when to stop spending. Do not get to “zero” on your account balance. Pay yourself first when you get a check. Be diligent about moving money from checking to savings and get some satisfaction from watching your balance grow.

Become educated about money from reading books, talking to your accountant, wealth manager, broker and invest your money wisely.

Finance Bar: Investing? Where do you start?

Myleik: “Try to save $5,000 or $10,000 in order to start investing.” You can get to a million dollars if you invest wisely after starting small. The managers at the bank can educate you on the investment products that fit your investing style. If one bank turns you down then go to another.

Finance Bar: Does buying expensive things boost the ego or make you feel different?

Myleik: People who really have a lot of money don’t really want you to know. “I used to think that I was an unhappy person because I didn’t have the things that make people happy.” I was initially trying to obtain the things that made people happy. Things will not make you happy. I had to work on my own personal happiness. I am most happy about being financially happy. The privilege is being able to pay your bills. My thought process on buying things now is, “If I lose this, will I care?” If I am going to care then I won’t buy it.

The Finance Bar: How has saving money allowed you to get some of your time back?

Myleik: “In order for me to get a home loan, the bank wanted me to pay an extra $200,000.” I had it saved but it hurt. It was in my home, I still had it but it hurt to hand over $200,000 because I had poor credit. After buying the home my credit soared. My savings opened up the door to buy a home and if I wanted a business loan I am able to get one.

The Finance Bar: Why is financial stability important?

Myleik: “More than anything we have to change our mindset about spending.” Do not be afraid of being called “cheap” or “stingy”. Have money in the bank and have money conversations with friends and family. Financial stability changes many things in your life. It changes the way you live, date, the foods that you eat. Financial stability gives you leverage. You do not have to save for special occasions or a trip. Save for the sake of saving. On the other hand, treat yourself at the end of the year after successful saving and sacrificing. Stay at a great hotel or take yourself on a great trip.

In Truth–Wealthy, hard working, people are hard working. They wake up early. They are up at the very top of the day getting business started. Overall, they are good to people, kind and humble. Most people who have money also have a team. They pay for help. The work has to be distributed in order for you to buy your time back. When you employ people you give others the opportunity to earn.

Tonight–Get a journal and set a ridiculous financial goal for yourself that you will achieve. Have conversations with your friends about money because it is here that you will get/share resources that may be beneficial for you. Destigmatize the idea of talking about money. Have a relationship with your bank manager in order find out how to make your money grow further.

Tips: Cut Housing Costs, Eat Out Less, Cook More, Make Meals That “Stretch”, Build a Strong Financial Team.

http://www.thefinancebar.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/blogazinesummer2015.pdf

https://www.thefinancebar.com/

http://www.curlbox.com/16/home.htm

September 19, 2017 0

Emmys 2017: Red Carpet Glamour Edition

I like to watch television. Well, “like” is actually an understatement. I love to watch television. There is probably nothing I love more than coming home from work, retreating to the couch and turning on the tube. As much as I love watching tv, I’m gonna fess up and let you guys know that I don’t love watching award shows like the Emmys. I flip channels and check out who’s wearing what.

What do I do if I don’t watch the shows? I tune into the red carpet show. I love seeing the glamorous designer gowns and luxe hairstyles grace the carpet.

My favorite Red Carpet Looks:

anika — Anika Noni Rose in a soft pink gown that compliments her hair color perfectly.

Anthony and — Anthony Anderson and Alvina Stewart make a beautiful pair.

Issa Rae is my bae!!! (Insert a big smiley emoji face)

69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards - Arrivals — The belle of the carpet, Yara Shahidi. “Blackish” always represents on the red carpet.

69th Primetime Emmy Awards, Arrivals, Los Angeles, USA - 17 Sep 2017 — Frozen Realness. Madeline Brewer looks like an Ice Queen.

janefonda — Ok Jane Fonda, show these young ones how it’s done. This is a pink moment.

Tess Thompson.jpg — Wow! Tessa Thompson did not come to play with you ****. This look is giving me Studio 54 meets Egyptian Goddess all at the same damn time.

I predict that “Blackish” and “Insecure” will be taking home some type of Moonperson tonight.

And in the words of the great former Miss America, Vanessa Williams “…Just when I thought our chance had passed, you go and save the best for last.”

gabrielleunion — I watched Gabrielle Union get her hair ready (with her own line of products) on IG and I was ready to see the dress that matched the big pony on the carpet. SHE DID NOT FAIL. SEXY SLAY.

Tracee Ellis — JOAN, RAINBOW, I mean TRACEE!!! Zaaam Woman! You went and pulled out the Chanel Haute Couture on ’em. Play fair next time.

September 17, 2017 0

What’s In My Weekend Bag?

I have “work” bags and I have “weekend” bags. My work bags are normally large totes that can probably hold and carry a small child. My work bag carries a laptop at times and is compartmentalized using a bag organizer insert that I can easily take out of one bag and place in another.

Now my weekend Bag!!!! That’s my carefree, small and fun bag. The only thing I carry on the weekends while I’m shopping, eating out or going on our many city excursions is my wallet, phone and maybe a lip gloss (but definitely chapstick).

The Bag

Bag: H&M– http://www.hm.com/us/product/73542?article=73542-B&cm_vc=PRA1

What’s Inside?

My weekend shoulder or crossbody always contain:

My leather Cole Haan coin purse that I use exclusively as my wallet. I carry my cards and cash in that purse. The purse goes from my weekend to work bag with ease. I don’t like carrying a traditional (large) wallet because they are just too large.

Cole Haan Women Leather Coin Purse One Size — This purse is similar to the purse that I own.

2) Carmex. I have tried all of the other brands and nothing works for repairing my dry lips like Carmex. I keep a stash in my car, several tubes at home and I always have a tube in my purse no matter the season.

3) E.L.F Red Matte lipstick. Every now and then I want to feel fabulous. It can happen at any time. I may be on the subway and I want to feel NYC fab. How do I do that in an instant? Red Lips. This red is perfect for my skin tone and the matte is not too drying. My lips are already super dry so some mattes can make my lips feel and look like I need a gallon of water. Not cute.

Image result for elf red matte lipstick — The perfect red.

4) Dickenson”s Witch Hazel Towelettes. Now these are new to my bag and I love using them in the warmer months when I’m up and about because my skin tends to get oily and nothing feels better than a quick swipe of the witch hazel wipes over my skin.

Image result for dickinson towelettes — Refreshing and cool when used on my face.

5) As a New Yorker, my Metro Card is always stashed in my purse but the train rides have gotten so pricey that there are times when my family will opt to drive to our whereabouts instead of hopping on the train because driving is cheaper after you factor in fares for the three of us. My purse also has to hold my keys (which is bulky–I have no clue why) buy I have a cool mountain clamp that I can use to clamp the key onto the outside of my purse if my bag is too small.

What are your weekend purse essentials?

August 30, 2017 4

Berkshires Bound: Weekend Getaway

The very scenic and rural area affectionately termed, “The Berkshires”, by all New Yorkers is a region in the mountains of western Massachusetts. The region is made up of small villages and towns that are all comprised of family run farms and general stores. Outdoor activities can be enjoyed during every season. Personally, I’m not a big fan of the snow and cold so I probably won’t be making the trek from the city to the mountains to see the crystal beds of snow. I know, I know, it’s beautiful and the Shakers (historically religious group) do a great snow shoe tour through the mountains in the winter! I’m still not going. It’s too cold.

I am there for the breezy summers and fantastic fall foliage though. Let us not forget the farm-to-table food scene and thriving arts institutions. We visited a few family farms for fresh fruits and veggies. I ate tomatoes like they were cherries. I shopped at the outlet and we also took a phenomenal visit to the Norman Rockwell museum. The pieces are a must see.

Where to Stay:

While driving to an adjacent town, Lenox, from Pittsfield, we drove past the Marriott Courtyard. Listen Linda, listen. This hotel is perched atop a small hill and it is gorgeous. It appears to be brand spanking new and had luxury written all over her. I did not go inside not did I stay there but I was wowed by what I saw whilst driving.

https://www.berkshirescourtyard.com/

Image result for berkshires marriott courtyard images — She is even prettier in person.

We stayed at the Crown Plaza Hotel and the location was good. It is located in the town of Pittsfield. It is right along the main street and the Berkshire Museum is right across the street from the hotel. The downside is the hotel rooms are a bit dated. The room felt old. The lighting was poor and the wallpaper takes you back to “Family Ties” days. It’s great if you aren’t picky with the hotel room:

http://berkshirecrowne.com/

What to Do:

I am a big art fan so the fact that a Norman Rockwell, an American legend, was nearby meant we had to make a visit. The grounds that the museum is built on is stunning. There is rolling green grass everywhere. You have an amazing view of the Appalachian mountains and not only do you get to see Rockwell’s art, you also get a peek at his actual studio where he made his art. The museum is located in the town of Stockbridge, MA.

https://www.nrm.org/

Rockwell lived in the town of Stockbridge and had his studio on their Main Street. He painted people from Stockbridge in many of his most famous pieces. Take the tour with the docent. You won’t regret it.

Shop:

I like to shop so the Lee Premium Outlet was perfect way to spend the evening. It isn’t a really big and overwhelming outlet and had the outlet basics like Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, Gap Outlet and Nike.

http://www.premiumoutlets.com/outlet/lee

Farm Life:

Honestly, there is no way to not see small family farms as you drive through the towns. Stop in and patronize.

http://www.taftfarms.com/

Where to Eat:

On our way to the Norman Rockwell Museum, we stopped off at the Red Lion Inn for lunch. The Inn is large and there is a great big porch when rocking chairs (all full) lining the porch. The decor is a mix of Victorian and turn of the century swag. The food was fresh and good.

http://www.redlioninn.com/

The Red Lion is located on a busy Main Street. Visit the General Store next door.

Plan your own visit to New England but first visit http://berkshires.org/ to plan your own itinerary.

August 29, 2017 0