Vee's Favorite Things

 

Fire Place 1- Marvilis

                                                               
You've heard of Oprah's Favorite Things, now I'd like to share a few of my favorite things with you!  And I apologize, but unlike Oprah's show, I won't be giving them away.  However, I will list the cheapest places to go and purchase them!

1.Dreamfields Healthy Low Carb Pasta

 

This low carb pasta is the best!  It tastes great, is low in carbs and allows me to enjoy my favorite pasta recipes, without the guilt!

2. Crest Classic Whitestrips Teeth White 56 Strips 14 Day
 


These white strips are an alternative to the more advanced, expensive ones on the market.  They're affordable, easy to use and they work! 

 3. Cheesecake Factory Low Carb Cheesecake

It's cheesecake, and it's low carb. What else is there to say?

4. Netflix

Watch your favorite movies and shows without expensive cable fees.

 
5.Haier Professional Panini Press

 


This panini makes the best, even cooked, crisp on the outside, warm and gooey on the inside, panini sandwiches!  It's also fashionable on your kitchen counter-top, and easy to clean! 

6. Egyptian Cotton Bed in a Bag Set




This bed set is not only fashionable, but soft, wash after wash and they retain their robust color!  These sheets feel so good, you'll feel like royalty when sleeping on them!

7. The Millionaire Next Door: Surprising Secrets of America's Wealthy




This is the best book on wealth management and understanding what it takes to become financially independent, and it's straight from the horses mouth!

7. Tracey Anderson's 30 Day Method

Her philosophy is like none I've ever seen!


8. ebay

    

This is, by far, the best place to find the discount products you need.


9. Toshiba Satellite



This is the most reasonably priced, name brand, refurbished lap top on the market! It's great as a starter component for doing homework and basic computing activities. 

10. Quest Bar 2.12 oz. Low Carb, Gluten Free, High Fiber Protein Bars (Box of 12 Bars)

 
These are the best, low-carb, high protein bars on the market and, they don't taste like cardboard!

So, these are just a few of my favorite things that I thought I'd share with you.  To find out more about the products listed, just click on the link above the picture to be redirected to the product information page.  Until then, happy shopping and be sure to check back for part II of my favorite things!  Also, I'd like to know what are some of your favorite things, so be sure to share them in the comment box!

The Perfect Weekend

 

shore-stefan G81

I'm always looking for a good excuse to lounge and relax or, just get away.  And what better excuse is there, than it's the weekend?  So, I've decided to come up with what my perfect weekend would be like. It would be something short of a movie!

First, I would surround myself in a peaceful, quiet and beautiful scenery; perhaps a cabin in the fall, or beach house.  I would drive to my destination so I could free my mind, on the way.  I would arrive early on Thursday or Friday in the morning, so I could enjoy the entire day as part of my weekend. I would pull up to the house, park my car or SUV very close, just in case I had to escape in an emergency.  We all know there are all kinds of lions and tigers and bears, and Jason's, oh my..in the woods.

I would then go inside and look around.  I would make sure everything is working fine, the water, the toilets,  the electricity and the kitchen appliances.  Then, I would set up shop.  I'd unpack my bags, which would consist of: my favorite pajamas, "Old Navy" flip flops , my pillow, my favorite blanket, my favorite t shirts and sweats or yoga pants, my teddy bear, lip gloss, my favorite mystery book, scary movies, my journal, fitness magazine, my laptop, cell phone, Aveeno face wash and moisturizer, nail polish, toothpaste and toothbrush, teeth whitening strips, firming lotion, vitamins and supplements, workout gear, deodorant, a knife, a gun and perhaps a dog or two ;)

My groceries would consist of: a half case of my favorite red wine,  low carb spaghetti, chunky vegetable spaghetti sauce, Parmesan cheese, salad, olives, fat free ranch dressing, garlic bread, refrigerator-dough
oatmeal raisin cookies, popcorn with fat-free butter, sugar free dark chocolate, soup, oatmeal with blueberries and veggie sausage for breakfast,  sugar free chocolate mint gum, tootsie pops, espresso-to make sugar free vanilla soy lattes, tea and bottled water.

I would begin my weekend by changing into my lounge clothes, doing yoga then making my breakfast.  I would then sit on the front porch, with my breakfast and journal, and eat and write whatever was on my mind.  I would enjoy the view, in between writing and eating, while breathing in the fresh air. I would stay there until dinner time, then go back in, lock up the house and make dinner.  I'd then enjoy dinner, desert and wine on the couch, in front of the television.  I'd watch scary movies all night until I dozed off.  

I would arise early the next morning, have a cup of coffee, then go jogging outdoors or on the treadmill. I would shower then enjoy breakfast on the front porch as I wrote in my journal.  Then I'd get on my laptop, check my email for messages and amazon.com for great deals.  I'd then prepare my blog or document for writing. If I was really lucky, I'd write an award winning script!  I would then enjoy the rest of the day writing and taking in the view until dinner time. Dinner would be leftovers from the night before and I'd enjoy it, on the couch, in front of the television again. I would watch movies again until I dozed off.  

I would sleep late the next day, because it's Sunday. I would then, get up, make a soy latte and sit on the front porch and write in my journal.  I'd get dressed, grab another soy latte, then pack. I'd load up my car and lock up, then leave. I'd stop by the local family owned restaurant for some small town gossip, buttery pancakes, greasy cheese eggs, greasy hash-browns and orange juice, before I hit the road.  I would take the rest of my meal in a doggy bag, to enjoy on the drive home.  I'd  then drive home listening to my favorite music and taking in the relaxing scenery as I basked in the after glow of my much-needed get-a-way!

Now, it's your turn.  What would be your perfect weekend?

Blogging 101

Red Lady-alicja  sto

 “Blog is short for Web log, an online personal essay.  Blogs are informal, informative and often entertaining.  They sometimes resemble newspaper columns: Both provide individual responses to current news stories as well as to other issues-everything from favorite recipes to terrible first dates to product evaluations” (Marsh, Guth & Short, 2009).   

Blogs are your very own space, intended for your unique voice and audience.  In order to get the most out of your blog, or to make your blog most effective, four factors should be taken into consideration when designing your space: Purpose, design, content and audience. These four factors blended together help make each level of your blog more appealing, thus insuring your intention or purpose of the blog while captivating your audience.

Purpose/Audience

            According to Marsh, Guth & Short (2009), the purpose of a blog is to communicate with individuals who avoid traditional media and/or who seek the less formal, more personal relationships that successful blogs can build.  Blogs actively invite written responses, offering a Comments link to allow readers to agree, disagree or extend the discussion (Marsh, Guth & Short, 2009).

 In other words, blogs are personal spaces designed to interact on a more intimate level.  When choosing subjects, content, and words, the author should be sure to use items that illicit a response from their readers.  This draws your reader in and allows them get involved. A good blog provokes the reader to respond and get involved with your topic.

 Design

            According to Marsh, Guth & Short (2009), when producing a blog, the entries usually begin with a headline in large type.  Beneath the heading, in smaller type, is the date and time of posting. The text of the blog is single-spaced, with extra spaces between paragraphs.  The text type is often sans-serif typeface such as Lucida Grande.  Blogs contain highlighted links to earlier posts, other blogs, online documents, videos, or Web sites and/or similar information sources.  Many blogs include previous entries beneath the current entry, which readers can access simply by scrolling down the web page.  Many blogs also include an RSS link; this allows your readers to automatically receive new posts from your site.

            When designing your blog, your blog should be designed with your audience in mind.  You should not only write your subject, but also include as many other informational sources as possible.  Your blog should be designed with your audience’s ease in mind. In other words, all posts, informational links, and feeds should be viewable and easily accessible to your audience.  This will allow your audience the opportunity to become as informed as possible on your subject and maneuver around your site as easy as possible.

Content

            Marsh, Guth & Short (2009) state that blogs must be updated frequently; many are updated daily.  Successful blogs generally address different aspects of broad topic such as, politics, product development or the stock market.  In other words establish an area of expertise, make it interesting and keep your audience coming back for more.

           Blog posts can range from one paragraph to several paragraphs.  Be informal: Use the first-person pronouns I and we.  Sentence fragments and nonstandard grammar are fine. However, deviations from standard grammar should be intentional, non standard grammar should not appear to be the result of sloppiness or ignorance.  Bloggers must frequently review readers’ comments and respond when possible.  You may delete threatening comments but not comments that simply disagree with your post.  According to Marsh, Guth & Short (2009) the best way to learn how to blog is by looking at other blogs.  Websites such as Technorati.com can help steer you to blogs that might interest you.

            In other words, blogs should be designed using an interesting or controversial topic; one that can be multi-topical, or spread out in a number of different posts. The content of your blog should be intimate and appealing.  Your posts should encourage interaction with your audience through the Comments box.   This not only encourages a following but helps you develop a target audience.  

Conclusion

            Blogs are a personal way to communicate.  The main purpose of a blog is to gain an audience or following of your topic.  This can be done by choosing interesting subjects; ones that encourage interaction, feedback and repeat visits from your audience.  These posts should be updated frequently, to keep your audience engaged.  Another way to encourage an audience is by making links, posts, and RSS feeds easily accessible. And lastly, a blog should be fun!

Reference

Marsh, C., Guth, D. W., & Short, B. P. (2009). Strategic Writing: Multimedia writing for public    

relations and more. USA: Pearson

           

Godiva Chocolate Truffle Review

Bakery Desert Truffles-Godiva

I am an avid chocolate lover so I never pass up the chance to sample different chocolates.  One day while visiting the mall, I passed the Godiva chocolates store.  I had a taste for some white chocolate so I went in, in search of some.  I cased the store, looking for my delectable treasures and as I got to the back of the store, I was presented to the truffle case. As I viewed the different tempting visuals and names in the huge array of chocolate balls, I knew I had to have some.  I opted for the Southern Red Velvet Cake truffle and a white chocolate Tiramasu flavored truffle.

When I first heard the price for just one chocolate morsel, I thought, wow,  but the names of the treats sounded so promising, I couldn't pass it up.  Then, as I got to the register, the sales associate informed me of a rewards program they have.  Under this program, I simply give them my email address and one of my truffles, were free!  I also get one free piece of chocolate every month!  I was already set to make my expensive purchase but the rewards program just made it even sweeter!

I didn't want to eat my delectable sweets while at the mall, so I decided to take them home, where I could savor them.  I got home, put away my items then changed into my pajamas.  I took a seat in my favorite comfy spot and took my first bite. I tried the white chocolate Southern Red Velvet Cake truffle, first.  When I bit into it, I was expecting to see a red center, but it wasn't.  None the less, it really tastes like red velvet cake, but smooth and creamier. The morsel was soft white chocolate on the outside but creamy and rich on the inside. I finished my treat in about 3-4 bites, trying to savor the flavor and texture as long as I could.  I couldn't wait to try the other one.  I waited a while between tastings, like a wine tasting, because I didn't want to mix the flavors, so I cleared  my pallet first, then moved onto the next one. 

I saved the white chocolate Tiramasu for last because Tiramasu is my favorite.  Being that it's my favorite, my tongue couldn't wait to dissect the flavors to see if it really taste like Tiramasu.  I bit into the delectable mouth-sized sphere and held my breath as I let the morsel melt in my mouth; waiting for my taste buds to record the flavors.  And, sure enough, it really does taste like Tiramasu, but more rich and creamier!

I have had tried chocolate truffles before but was not a huge fan of them.  I'm not sure if it is Godiva's innovative way of infusing bakery flavors into their masterpieces, or their great art of making chocolate but I love it! Not only were they worth the $2.30 a piece, they charge, but I am now ready to spend $25.00 for a whole box of them! Godiva's chocolate truffles are the kind of truffles that really take you away!   I would definitely recommend Godiva's chocolate truffles to anyone who's looking for the perfect escape or end to the day!

Super Models

friends-duchesssa

Female mentors and female positive role models, the women who take that extra step to do the right thing in order to make a positive impact on young girls lives, are the most beautiful people in the world to me!

Growing up as a young girl, and even now, I always wanted a positive female role model in my life. I was bombarded by negative influences, but I knew I didn't want my life to be like that.  I craved for the guidance and support of a positive female in my life to help me be a better person.  There were lots of older girls and women all around me, but they never actually took the time to teach me or encourage me in life. The only thing I had gathered from them was what I didn't want to be like. Feeling the gap in my life and knowing that I could have been a better person, had I had a positive female influence in my life, I knew I wanted to set a positive example for younger girls.  According to 13 year old, Imani Stevens (2010) "A good positive role model can show a girl how to be positive and feel good about herself.  They also help us to believe that we can do anything in the world if we work for it and really put our minds to it." In other words, positive role models enrich our lives!

And now, to all those women who have made a positive impact in my life, I'd like to say "thank you:"

To Mrs Jackson, for always having a kind word to say to me and who did wonders for my self esteem, thank you, you're beautiful. To Beyonce Knowles, for waiting until you were married to start a family and for the song "Me, Myself and I," thank you, you're beautiful. To Mrs Gwen, for always having a nice word to say whenever I see you, and for understanding, thank you, you're beautiful. To Paula Abdul, for helping people of all ages live out their dreams in dance, thank you, you're beautiful.  To Joyce Meyers who never judges and always knows what to say, thank you, you're beautiful.  To Miss Pat (RIP)  for always taking me in when I was in a bad relationship, for always understanding, and never judging me, thank you, you're beautiful.  To Nellie Wright, this little article could not begin to sum up the thanks I have for you, but thank you for everything! You're beautiful.  To Charli Baltimore, for having such a strong voice for us women in the struggle, thank you, you're beautiful.  To Foxy Brown for being a female "Don," thank you, you're beautiful.  To Oprah Winfrey, for showing me that a black woman could make it big! Thank you, you're beautiful! To Michelle Obama, for showing me what a real female positive role model looks like, thank you, you're beautiful.  To TLC, for the song "Unpretty," which I still listen to to this day, to help my self esteem, thank you, you're beautiful.  To Little Kim for making "Ladies Night," thank you, you're beautiful.  To Halle Berry, Jennifer Anniston, Janet Jackson, Demi Moore, Toni Braxton, Pamela Anderson, and Trudy for showing me that you can still be sexy even when you get older, thank you, you're beautiful.  To Halle Berry, Celine Dionne, Kelly Preston, and Mariah Carey for showing me "you didn't wait too long," and that you can still have a family after 40, thank you, you're beautiful.  To Christina Aguilera for the song "Beautiful," thank you, you're beautiful.  To Nicole Kidman and Lisa Ling, for sharing your heartbreaking stories about your miscarraiges, thank you, you're beautiful.  To Whoopie Goldberg, for sharing your story about your periodontal disease, thank you, you're beautiful. To Angela Winbush for producing so many Isley Brother's hits, thank you, you're beautiful.  To Shakira for showing me what beautiful, sexy, talented and smart looks like, thank you, you're beautiful. To Demi Moore and Mariah Carey for showing us that we can find unconditional love, thank you, you're beautiful. To Mariah Carey for making the song "Make it Happen," which keeps me from giving up on my dreams, to this day, thank you, you're beautiful. To Tyra Banks for "America's Next Top Model" and for sharing your supermodel/beauty secrets, thank you, you're beautiful. 

This list in no way excludes other positive female role models.  It just means that these are the women who have most impacted my life.




Reference

Williams, M. (2010). Young Gifted and Black. Essence.com.
            
               Retrieved March 9, 2011, from

              http://blogs.essence.com/fastforward_to_fabulous/2010/10/young-
            
              gifted-and-black.php

First Comes Love, Then Comes Marraige, Then Comes the Wife with a Baby Carraige..

 

ring-francog

..Or maybe not.  Now a days it seems to be "first comes the baby carriage, then maybe love, and you're lucky if you get the marriage."  Lately I've been wondering if I've been a little too harsh or brutal in my judgment towards unwed mothers.  I guess because I regret that I was one, I've been sulking in my own pond of guilt and frustration from my choices and now, I'm wondering if It's starting to make me bitter and too judgmental. 

Being a female myself, I've always assumed that all women wanted to be respected and loved, find their prince charming, be married to him, have children and live in a big house with a white picket fence. I just assumed this was the "American Dream!" But lately, it seems that more and more women are being promiscuous, having child after child out of wedlock, not really standing for anything but this, and being proud of it.   I've always felt it was wrong or shameful for women to be promiscuous and have children on "accident" or out of wedlock and society used to shun it too but today, the high amount of sympathy, help and praise that teenage and unwed mothers are generating, causes me to wonder.  

Lately I've been feeling a bit judged, ridiculed and teased because I only have one child (I did so, with a combination of the depo provera shot and abstinence), while others, some married, some not, have more. I had my first child out of wedlock and the amount of shame I felt from doing so along with the hard work it took to take care of him (his father and I split, so he never really helped) was enough to make me stop there. I vowed to never have kids again, until I found my prince charming and got married.  

In today's culture it's become a "fashion" to be pregnant, with or without a husband.  And as I look around at the females who have multiple children, without husbands, they seem to make it look "hip" or cool.  I look at them, with stress, sadness, and pain in my eyes, from raising my own child alone, and I simply can't understand why they're not feeling it too.  Heck, I even look at married women in two parent homes,with children, thinking how hard and expensive it is to raise kids. Yet, some single women still continue to have child after child. I fear that they are making it appear too easy and glamorous that very young girls and teenagers are starting to have and want children without being married.  Today I overheard a 12 year old girl tell her friends that she wanted her first child when she was about 16. Apparently she was influenced by another young girl ,16 or 19, who had a child or was already pregnant.  All I could think about was my own experience and how so..sorry I felt for her thinking it was gonna be so.. easy.

So, I wonder is it just me who's had a rough experience with childbearing and that it's easier for others?  Is it because I have a conscience or religion that I feel bad for having a child out of wedlock and other people don't?  Is it just part of our instinct to procreate, without a husband, like animals, just for the sole purpose of continuing our species?  And for those of us who do wait, and  for those who've waited too long for love and marriage before procreating, are we just torturing ourselves? I mean, it's not like a huge lightening bolt comes out of the sky and strikes down those of us who don't wait.  If it does, they never share this story with other people, especially younger kids and maybe they should, in order to help them or save them from thinking it's just a game!