No Favorite Fabulous Photos Today

Unfortunately, I am unable to post my favorite fabulous photos today. My computer is not getting an Internet connection for some reason. Therefore, I'm using my Blackberry to write this posting.

Anyway, I'll be back next week after the holidays. Who knows, if my computer is functioning properly this weekend I may post the photos of the week.

Happy Holidays!

BG: Mary J. Blige's New CD

If you haven't already bought the Queen of Hip-Hop Soul, Mary J. Blige's new CD, Growing Pains, you should do so immediately if you enjoy good hip-hop/R&B music. One of the best R&B BG singers of our time, Blige doesn't disappoint with her latest project. Although it isn't her best work, the CD is still worthy of inclusion in your MJB collection.

Growing Pains, is her 8th CD (not including live or special albums), but it still manages to have a fresh sound. Of course it still has Blige's signature R&B flavor, but the CD definitely reflects her maturity and newfound confidence.

The uptempo intro track, "Work That," is a testatment to her positive self-image and she encourages women to find their own too. Her first single from the CD, "Just Fine," is by far the best song on the album. This infectious, feel-good song just makes you want to hit the dance floor.

Growing Pains is sprinkled with other sweet-sounding tunes, especially her smooth duet with Usher in "Shake Down." Staying true to her customary rap-infused/R&B roots, the CD includes features with hip-hop heavyweights Ludacris and Pharrell.

"Just Fine" Video:


The CD appropriately closes with the harmonious, "Come to Me (Peace)," which is akin to an uplifting choir-sung spiritual. This particular ballad will definitely be one of Blige's classic performance songs.

From What's the 411, to her latest installment, Blige will and always be the R&B voice of this generation. Her truthful, soulful and unique sound has often been imitated, but she'll always be an original.

P.S If you're in the NYC area, you can meet Mary J. Blige at the Carol's Daughter store in Harlem today (12/20) at 6pm. You can pick up her new CD along with some Carol's Daughter goodies too!

Take Note

Now that the new year is rapidly approaching, why not pick up a few journals for yourself and others this holiday season?

At the start of each year I try to write my personal thoughts and reflections in a journal. I credit my mom for instilling in me the importance of the written word. She's kept a journal throughout most of her life. Me on the otherhand, I'm not as consistent, but I do have several journals.

Actually, journal writing doesn't have to be consistent or contain certain thoughts. All that matters is that you write down exactly how you feel at that particular moment in time. From random thoughts to a rant about an annoying co-worker at your office, journals are your personal space to vent and reflect.

I recently read one of my journals from college and found it to be quite funny and entertaining. Although at the time, my circumstances were far from humorous. The affairs that were going on in my life during that time are totally irrelavant now, but it was fun and interesting to read years later.

So head to your nearest Papyrus or local stationery store to buy a journal. They make great stocking stuffers!

Here are a few pretty journals to check out **Please note that some of these journals are pricey, but you can find more affordable ones at Borders and Barnes and Noble bookstores**:



Leather Monogrammed Diaries & Journals Available at Neiman Marcus www.neimanmarcus.com from $40-98



12 Monthly Journals Available at www.redenvelope.com for $98



Seagrass Journal Available at Papyrus www.papyrusonline.com for $24.95




Leather Journals Available at Neiman Marcus www.neimanmarcus.com from $45-80



Pink Flowers Journal Available at Target www.target.com for $14.99



Cashmere Journal from Neiman Marcus www.neimanmarcus.com for $95



Allegra Leather Journal from Kate's Paperie www.katespaperie.com for $32



Copper and Teal Embossed Pattern - Journal from Papyrus www.papyrusonline for $19.95

Glove Love

For those BGs who live in warm climates and don't have to worry about the unfavorable cold, wintry weather, be thankful! It's December so it's freezing in both of my favorite cities -- Chicago and New York.

That means layering and keeping my body as warm as possible is essential to getting anything done outside of my cozy homes during these long, frigid months.

For me, the first thing on my body that gets cold are my hands; that's why I have several pairs of gloves to keep in the pockets of each of my winter coats.

A nicely lined pair of gloves can keep your fingers toasty and fashionable!

Check out some of these functional, yet fabulous pairs of gloves.



Coach Leather Gloves Available at www.coach.com for $298



Australian Ugg Sheepskin Gloves Available at www.nordstrom.com for $140



Isotoner Cashmere-Lined Leather Gloves Available at www.isontoner.com for $40



Chain Leather Gloves Available at www.nordstrom.com for $88



Forzieri White Italian Leather Gloves Available at www.forzieri.com for $79



Isotoner Stretch Leather Fleece-Lined Gloves Available at www.isotoner.com for $35



Cashmere gloves available at www.walmart.com for $12

"Spa"ctacular!

What's the perfect holiday gift that you can give a BG or guy who is always on the go and always helping others, but never seems to find time for themselves? Oh yes, this includes YOU too -- a gift certificate to a spa!

A nice spa treatment will help the over-worked, tired and always busy loved one in your life take a break from his or her demanding schedule and escape the daily grind.

Spa treatments have been proven to be an effective way to alleviate stress and provide relaxation for your mind, body and spirit. Whether it's a facial, Swedish massage or a mani or pedi, giving one's self "me" time is essential to healthy living. When you feel good, you treat others well and are more productive.

Here are a few popular spas throughout the U.S:

Bliss Soho

One of their most popular treatments right now is the "Mistle Toes." This treatment gives your shopped out soles a lift with this hot milk, sweet orange oil and cinnamon stick soak plus paraffin wrap pedicure. Served with a cup of hot apple cider, and you'll get a FREE holiday Essie nail polish.
60 min $70

568 Broadway, 2nd Floor
NYC NY 10012
212 219 8970
www.blissworld.com

P.S There are several Bliss spas throughout the United States. Check the website for more locations.

Honey Child Salon & Spa

I once got my hair styled at this salon/spa and received more compliments on my hair than I've ever gotten in my life! Plus, the owner is a BG!

735 N. LaSalle
Chicago, IL
(312) 573-1300
www.honeychildsalonandspa.com

The Root of You Salon and Day Spa

They boast a great massage called the "Awakening." It's a 50 minute Swedish full body massage that releases muscle tension with slow strokes along with finger pressure applied both following and across the grain of muscles and tendons to promote relaxation and help improve circulation. $70

5190 Buffalo Speedway
Houston, Texas 77005
(off Highway 59 on Buffalo Speedway @ Westpark)
832-778-1225
www.therootofyou.com

Le Petite Retreat Day Spa

One of their best-sellers is the True Transformation Facial. This classic custom spa facial helps restore skin's dull, dried, damaged appearance. Aromatherapy and marine-based elements rich in trace minerals balance skin's ph level, replenishing lost nutrients for that healthy, youthful glow.
60 mins: $110

331 N. Larchmont Blvd.
Los Angeles CA, 90004
(323) 466-1028
www.lprdayspa.com

The "Perfect" Holiday Movie

I had the pleasure of seeing The Perfect Holiday the other night. Despite an extremely cold evening, I had to go support our BGs and guys who directed, produced and starred in this pioneering romantic holiday comedy.

Prior to the release of this film and This Christmas, which came out last month, there hadn’t been any holiday movies starring an all African-American cast. I know that’s hard to believe, but it’s true.

The movie is about a recent divorcee with 3 young children named, Nancy, portrayed by the beautiful BG Gabrielle Union who is anxious to start dating again. The adorable, Khail Bryant plays her daughter who makes a wish to a shopping mall’s Santa Claus for her mom to meet a nice man. She inadvertently sets her mom up with who Union’s character thinks is an ideal suitor, played by actor, Morris Chestnut, but finds out that he hasn’t been completely honest with her. During their courtship, her eldest child portrayed by Malik Hammond, isn’t exactly adjusting to his mother’s new boyfriend. He tries to sabotage their relationship by playing pranks on Chestnut's character a la Home Alone style.

In the midst of the romantic twists and turns, the film is sprinkled with magical and funny scenes acted by an unbelievably talented cast which includes: Queen Latifah (who actually produced the movie), Terrence Howard, Charlie Murphy, Faizon Love, Jill Marie Jones, Rachel True and Katt Williams.

It’s refreshing, relatable and simply entertaining which makes it the perfect movie to take your entire family to see this holiday season.

Iman Launches New Line

This seems like a busy week for our BG fashion entrepreneurs. First the Simmons sisters announce the expansion of their line, Pastry earlier this week and now supermodel and fashion icon, Iman, is launching Iman Global Chic, which will include handbags and accessories on Saturday (Dec. 15th) exclusively on the Home Shopping Network.

Her internationally inspired fashion style will definitely be reflected in this affordable line. As we BGs already know, Iman also has a wonderful cosmetic line which she created with us in mind.

Here are a few of her pieces from Global Chic:



Glamourous day planner $19.95



Vintage inspired handbag $54



Gold-toned cuff $49.95

Saleisha Strikes a Winning Pose!

So our BG Saleisha took the coveted spot as America’s Next Top Model 2007. From the very beginning I had a feeling that she was going to win the fashion-focused reality competition. Her bubbly personality coupled with her unyielding drive to succeed made her the top choice for the spot. Although I didn't like her Bono-esque hairdo, she did have a killer walk that rivaled Naomi Campbell!





If you watched the show, do you think she deserved the title?

Classic BG: Dorothy Dandridge

I’ve always been fascinated by old Hollywood glamour. However, when I was younger I only knew about white actresses from that period. That was until I was in 8th grade and had to watch the groundbreaking opera, Porgy & Bess for a class assignment and saw Dorothy Dandridge.

Prior to viewing this pioneering film, I never saw African-Americans in roles from the 1940s and 1950s that weren’t mammies or minstrels.

So after that assignment I wanted to know more about the film’s leading lady. After seeing old photographs of Dorothy in magazines I immediately admired her style! To me, Dorothy exuded class and sophistication. Her fashion sense was impeccably chic.

Even decades after her death, she’s still a fashion icon to many. So, for those young BGs who only know about Carmen Jones from seeing Beyonce’s portrayal from MTV’s hip-hopera a few years ago, it was Dorothy who first brought the feisty character to life!

5 Facts About Dorothy Dandridge:

1. She was born in Cleveland, OH in 1922

2. First African-American actress to be Oscar-nominated for "Best Actress in a Leading Role."

3. She loved soul food. Her favorite was chitterlings and greens, which she ate only once a week.

4. First black woman to grace the cover of Life Magazine.

5. She was first choice for the role of Cleopatra but ultimately the role went to Elizabeth Taylor.

Sweet Treats

The Simmons sisters are at it again. This time they’re cooking up tasty fashions to complement their already sweet line of sneakers – Pastry. The extended brand will now include a handbag collection with messenger bags, hobos, bowler bags and duffels as well as junior sportswear.

Ranging in prices from $13-50, the line is sure to be a hit with young girls and women who have a sweet tooth for Pastry.

Next up for the reality-TV stars – lingerie and jewelry. There’s apparently no stopping these entrepreneurial sisters.



The line will be available in stores such as, Against All Odds, Mony, Jimmy Jazz and www.drjays.com starting January 25, 2008.

Wax & Wick Picks

Nothing makes your space feel more comfy and homey as the gleam of a flickering flame on a sweet or subtle smelling candle. A few years ago I wasn’t really into candles. In fact, I re-gifted several of these practical and often pretty products to my sister who absolutely loves candles.

My care for candles changed once I got married and moved out of my mother’s house and into my own apartment. As I started to semi-decorate the awkward and the seemingly out-of-place mantle in my bedroom, I realized that candles would add panache, as well as help create a sensual mood in my bedroom during those romantic nights with my husband.

Now when I receive a candle as a present I am pleasantly delighted; or when I smell an inviting aroma in a store, I am inclined to buy the candle that’s producing the soothing scent.

Whether you want to enhance the ambiance of your living space or give a gift that most people (mainly women) would appreciate, candles are a great choice. Varying in myriad styles and scents, you’re sure to find a candle that’s right for you.

Check out some of my choices:


"Tea Leaves" candle at Banana Republic: www.bananarepublic.com $24



"Eucalyptus and Patchouli Soy" Candle Available at Target: www.target.com for $10.19



Jo Malone "Coffret" Candle Set Available at Neiman Marcus: www.neimanmarcus.com for $85



White Barn "Apple" Scented Candle Available at Bath & Body Works: www.bathandbodyworks.com for $19.50



"Cannabis and Santal" Candle Available at Fresh: www.fresh.com for $48



"Winter" Candle Available at Bath & Body Works: www.bathandbodyworks.com $16.50

I've Been Tagged!

Typically, I post my favorite fabulous photos of the week, but I’ve been tagged by one of my favorite blogs, The Daily Cookie. This is my first time being tagged since I’ve only been a part of the blogging community for a short few months. For those of you who don’t know what being “tagged” is, it’s when a fellow blogger asks for you to share several tidbits about yourself and post them on your blog.

Here are the The Rules: Each player starts with 7 random facts/habits about themselves. People who are tagged need to then report this on their own blog with their 7 things as well as these rules. They then need to tag 7 others and list their names on their blog. They are also asked to leave a comment for each of the tagged, to let them know that they have been tagged and to read the blog.

Here are my 7 random facts/habits:

1. I have a serious obsession with sugary candies like sour watermelon slices, gummi worms and any candy besides chocolate.



2. I watch reruns of Soul Food (the series) on BETJ like I’ve never seen every episode on Showtime when they originally aired.



3. If I could, I would eat baked salmon and rice for dinner every night of the week. To be truthful, I almost do.

4. I used to work at People magazine.



5. I’ve never watched one episode of Friends – ever. Nilla Cookie, I know you probably can’t believe this since it’s your favorite show!

6. When I was young I wanted to be just like Vanessa L. Williams when I grew up! I was determined to show the world that I had the “Right Stuff!” LOL



7. I have a huge crush on Nick Lachey. I know he’s with Vanessa Minnillo and I am happily married, but in another life…!!!!



Now I'm tagging Tres Chic Style, Divine Blackness and Kreative Mix

Ho, Ho, Ho for the Host(ess)!

Remember when I shared with you my favorite festive frocks to don during this season of holiday soirees? Well it’s just about that time to put on your pretty party dress and head to your merry affairs.

But before you get into a frenzy about what you're going to wear, don’t forget to pick up a nice gift for your host(ess). Because we BGs always demonstrate proper etiquette, it’s essential that we gift the host(ess) with a nice thank-you when attending a function at someone’s home.

The good news is that the offering doesn’t have to be expensive. A simple and affordable gift will show your appreciation for his/her hospitality. Plus, it just feels good to give!

Here are a few suggestions:



These cute Cuisinart bottle openers will make your host(ess) want to crack open that bottle of wine they've been saving! Available at macys.com for $9.98



You can never go wrong with chocolates because most people love it! Available at redenvelope.com for $42 These are pretty pricey, but you can find other chocolate gift sets much more affordable.



Your hostess will thank you for these adorable travel candle tins. Available at redenvelope.com for $26



Even though I'm not a card player, many folks enjoy card games! Available at gifts.com for $20



If you know about the party far enough in advance, cute monogrammed bar soaps will be a nice touch. Available at redenvelope.com $36.



Flowers are always a sure bet! Poinsettias are perfect for the holidays.

Beauty Booty: Lumene Radiant C Drops

About a week ago I attended this beauty event held in the fashion district in the heart of NYC. Even though I wasn’t feeling the best, I made it my business to brave the cold to see what the beauty gods had to offer.

Not exactly feeling up to reveling in what seemed like a really great party, I scoped out the scene and made a few rounds to several vendors and quickly decided that it was time to head toward the swag bag and make my exit.

After I got home, I checked out the goodies and found that I had obtained a few nice treats. I was elated to know that my trek to the beauty event was not in vain; although I am convinced that the freezing air made my cold even worse, but who cares, that's the sacrifice one makes in the name of beauty!

Here is one of my favorites:


Lumene's Radiant C Beauty Drops Available at CVS stores nationwide for $22

Although this anti-aging skin product came out a few months ago, I had never tried it. So I thought, what the heck? I might as well give it a go since it claims to make skin visibly smoother in 28 days and is supposedly packed with anti-oxidants, berry oils and other great skin enhancing agents. Plus, InStyle claims that fellow BGs Halle Berry and Vanessa Williams are huge fans, which only made me want to try it even more.

After washing my face, I applied the cute orange capsule of moisture to my skin, it tingled a bit, and left my skin feeling both mildy dry and moisturized -- weird, I know. I then applied my tried and true Oil of Olay oil-free moisturizer that I use religiously every night as directed on the Lumene box (they advise you to continue using your regular night creams in addition to one drop/capsule) and went to bed.

I did this regimen for about 5 days and I must say, my skin looks more radiant and clear than prior to using these drops/capsules. Could this all be in my head? I'm not sure, but I can't wait to report back to you once my 28 are up. Hopefully, my skin will only get better! Stay tuned. If you've tried this product, let me know what you think of it.

Time Out!

A watch can say a lot about a person. That’s why every BG should invest in a classic timepiece.

I must admit, when the battery dies in my watch, it might as well be broken or lost because I stop wearing it because I never seem to get around to replacing the battery. I haven’t worn my favorite stainless steel DKNY watch in over a year due to my inability to find the time to keep it ticking.

Due to the fact that I haven’t worn my favorite and only watch in so long, I now feel the need to have a brand new one. I’m not suggesting that you go out and buy a watch if you only need to get a new battery, but I am saying to treat yourself to a timepiece that expresses your personality. I’m hoping to find a beautifully wrapped watch under my Christmas tree this holiday season. Remember, a beautiful watch can act as jewelry and add pizzazz to any ensemble.

Here are a few that tickle my fancy!



Bulova Women's 16-Diamond Bezel Watch $281 Available at Nordstrom.com



One of Oprah's Favorite things, Toywatch in pink $150 Available at Nordstrom.com



Movado "Bela" Stainless Stee Diamond Bangle $495 Available at Nordstrom.com



Fossil Deshazo Watch $55 Available at Fossil.com



DKNY Women's Slim Mesh Strap Watch $75 Available at Macys.com



AK Anne Klein Oval Dial Black Strap Watch $65 Available at Macys.com



Diesel Digital Watch $120 Available at Macys.com



Burberry Ladies' Signature Leather Band Watch $325 Available at Nordstrom.com