Lite & Shining Armor

Spring Tweetup/Meetup SUNDAY 4/4/2010

2010-04-01T11:05:00.002-04:00

You asked for it and it's back! Greetings to you all! Let's gather in the name of positive energy and great food. I personally am excited to have a reason to return to the International vegan delight that is the Loving Hut Come out in your spring time fits and I will hold down an outdoor eating area for us! YAS!

Join us @ the Loving Hut for an array of savory and delectable dishes specially prepared with Love by the Loving Hut staff!

Date: Sunday, April 4, 2010

Time: 4:00 pm
Address: 6385 Spalding Drive, Suite E, Norcross, GA. 30092
Tel: 678-421-9191

Menu items:

Dishes
Miso Soup
BBQ Stick
Garden Salad
Sushi
Pad Thai Noodle
Green Fried Rice
Stir-Fry Vegetables
Veggie Ball
Rotini Pasta Salad
Desserts
Fresh Mix Fruits
Banana Cake
Drink
Thai Ice Tea

Cost: $8.99 Adults, Under 12 half price, Under 6 eat free
*They will not be serving their regular menu during this buffet*

PEACE+BUTTERFLIES
From LITE}{

Giving Thanks Fast!

2009-11-20T19:03:00.001-05:00

PEACE+BUTTERFLIES
From LITE}{

Scarves, Scarfs and Scarphs?

2009-11-04T11:41:00.001-05:00

There is a way to wear a scarf, and here are just a few....Most of us have one of these types of scarves and they are a great way to rejuvenate our wardrobe during the autumn/winter months.

I personally recommend always carrying or wearing a scarf of some sort. In case of temperature decline, or if I need to tie my hair back, I'm always coverered, LITERALLY. Keep one in your car, or tie one around the strap of your bag as pictured above,#28. In places such as NYC, London, Los Angeles etc., SCARVES ARE WORN YEAR ROUND. Scarves are an ancient accessory still being rocked by our peoples in Africa, Asia, Latin America and all over the world. Texture, and weight will vary based on the weather and region's climate. NOW Here's an idea: Use a piece of your favorite fabric, or frolic through some fabric stores and cut out your own original scarf. 3ft or longer by 10 inches to 1 foot should be sufficient depending on the type fabric, and just how much warmth & coverage needed.

DESIGN YOUR LIFE.

PEACE+BUTTERFLIES
From LITE}{

WORLD VEGETARIAN DAY! 1 de Octubre

2009-10-01T12:01:00.009-04:00

One of my favorite days during one of my favorite months and favorite seasons!

There is so much positivity that comes from being a vegetarian! Never let anyone tear down that energy. If done right, your eyes shine brighter, your skin will glisten, your hair will shimmer, YOUR BODY WILL THANK YOU. Healthy folks ARE soooo very dashingly, attractive. The WORLD Recognizes your beauty and commitment to yourself, people, animal life and the Earth.

In honor of World Vegetarian Day do SOMETHING, ANYTHING VEGGIE. In the words of Dead Prez.....Be Healthy Y'all. Here is a tribute to their inspirational song on living vegetarian....

Check out this link for info on how WE can celebrate today and everyday, responsibly HEALTHY. http://www.worldvegetarianday.org/youcando/

PEACE+BUTTERFLIES
From LITE}{

The Future Of Food

2009-09-29T09:08:00.004-04:00

This is an hour and a half long documentary so it's worth saving and then passing on. Time to have a movie-nite with purpose.
Is this the Future of Your Food?

PEACE+BUTTERFLIES
From LITE}{

Atl Veggie Tweetup/Meetup @ Cafe Sunflower Saturday September 26th

2009-09-16T13:55:00.003-04:00

click the link for details------> See Ya there!
PEACE+BUTTERFLIES
From LITE}{

Veggie Tweetup/ Meetup on Sunday August 23rd @ R. Thomas Deluxe Grill

2009-08-10T16:14:00.018-04:00

This one is for all the Atlanta Area locals or visting folks who want to meet up with others who fall under any of these catergories.

People Who:

Are open to different types of great tasting food
Want to implement healthier foods into their lives
Are interested in connecting with others who strive to eat/live healthy
Drink teas, wines, smoothies etc.
Live a vegetarian/vegan lifestyle

Ok, so yes that sounds like everyone in the world, but that's the whole point. Many of us are more open to eating/living healthier than we may even realize. Friends, new and old are getting together to eat some good food in a casual atmosphere, and share stories, ideas, issues and chat it up. This is a great way to meet a new, possibly special + healthy someone!

Tweet Up/Meet us @ 3pm Sunday 8.23.09

R. Thomas Deluxe Grill

1812 Peachtree Road N.W., Atlanta, GA, 30309

Menu Snippets include my favorite, the Veggie Sausage Queen Omlette with tofu instead of eggs. Maybe I'll get something new this time?

R. Thomas has tons of sides, wines, beers, free range options, smoothies, and vegan desserts available

Please remember to leave a RSVP/Comment here or hit me on twitter via (click here)@litefm if you are coming! See ya then, Be healthy ya'll!

PEACE+BUTTERFLIES
From LITE}{

Good Hair Gone Bad??

2009-08-09T10:32:00.004-04:00

This is a societal phenomenon which speaks volumes about how we view what is an accepatable standard of beauty. Many people of all walks of life and cultural identities view straighter and/or blonde/lighter colored hair as "Good Hair". This notion exists in the minds of some people all over the globe. I, along with many others who allow our own luxurious thick hair to be, (and wear it like the crown that it is) have been frowned upon for rocking it proudly. I have been told that I looked better with straight hair or , "Wow, it takes courage to wear your hair like that (in its natural state?????)". Wearing your hair the exact way it was intended to be worn, and they way it grows out of your head has become somewhat of a novelty for some of us. Some folks think naturally kinky or course hair is kind of interesting. While others look on in great admiration. Check out actor/comedian extrodinaire Chris Rock's Documentary on the topic, expected out in theatres this October.

Amazing but true. This Good Hair/Bad Hair ideal has existed for many years and stems from a history of teaching lies that have spread around the world. Unfortunately, the saga continues. I, along with many other beauties will continue to inspire, create, lock, braid, twist, cornrow, design and wear our hair naturally even when the world sometimes does not approve. Why wouldn't we? YOU LOOK BEAUTIFUL TO ME.
RECOGNIZE ART AND BEAUTY. IT IS ABUNDANT AND ALL AROUND US }{

PEACE+BUTTERFLIES
From LITE}{

National Black Arts Fest----2009 is Fine

2009-08-03T17:29:00.009-04:00

What a dandy time it was this past Saturday at the annual National Black Arts Festival in Atlanta. I grew up in NY, so festivals are considered somewhat of a past time. Could this festival measure up to the many carnivals, parades and fests that Nueva York is known for? Well, I judge an art fest by the vendors and by the entertainment. YES! There was a live Salsa band along with a band that covered the sounds and spirit of Fela Kuti. I saw lots of the same artsy-farsty stuff we see at many festivals, but was elated when I found these.
Had to bring them home. What a treasure!
Check them out, they are quite Ugly-Pretty! Pretty has been so overdone!
These handmade leather sandals with "fur" are straight from Accra, Kenya and are the business. They are soooo ugly! Yes!

I met this enchanting statue with jewelry detailing made of stone. Isn't she lovely?

Then I linked with this real-life Goddess and fellow artist Sheree Amore: Where would we be without the Arts? It exists everywhere, stop and take a look :)

PEACE+BUTTERFLIES
From LITE}{

Mango+Self-Determination

2009-07-31T18:25:00.002-04:00

This is my latest choice of nail art design and NO IT IS NOT THE FRENCH MANICURE! Pish Posh! I was thinking of dipping my fingers into my favorite Vegan Mango Sorbet when I chose the color.
I did hear from a birdie that besides friendship, the color yellow also symbolizes Self-Determination and a bright future, as shown below in the Mauritius Flag. I will take it!For more info on the African country, Mauritius and it's flag's meaning, go here.

PEACE+BUTTERFLIES
From LITE}{

Lov'n It Live

2009-07-17T16:48:00.007-04:00

This week has been overwhelmingly inspiring for me. The summer is usually a time when we eat lighter, or even healthier usually but I have been doing just the opposite. So when a friend and fellow artist/writer invited me to dinner at an all raw-food veggie spot I jumped at the oppurtunity. I actually have been to Lov'n It Live over 6 years ago, but have stayed away way too long. I had the pie du jour which was Raw Strawberry Creme Pie, (YUMMMMMY). My friend and her companion shared a tray that looked like this!!!!!!!

Can't remember the actual names of each item on the dish but the bite I had was majestic. Avocadoes, Nuts, Greens, Tomatoes, Onions are just a few of the all-natural, raw ingredients :)

Check out the menu here ----> http://www.lovingitlive.com/menu_art/Loving%20it%20live%20Menu.pdf The restaurant is cute and quaint and is community-oriented just the way they should be so I will be back very soon. The pie was so good, I didn't stop to capture a pic of it ;)

Ok, so why has my 85% vegan self been slacking off and not being better to myself? Let's move forward. I will be adding more raw/live prepared meals to my lifestyle. Yes LIFESTYLE. NOT DIET. THIS IS ABOUT HOW ONE CHOOSES TO LIVE. BEING IN CONTROL OF YOUR HEALTH & WELL-BEING IS AS SEXY, & STYLISH AS IT GETS.

DESIGN YOUR LIFE, YA'LL

OH and yeah, can't forget about the documentary film I viewed this week on the big screen. Talk about life-altering information. What are really eating??

I urge you all to see Food Inc. Click here to watch the trailer and find out more.

Told ya, I had an extra-enlightening week :)

PEACE+BUTTERFLIES
From LITE}{

Nails: Punk Panama Style

2009-07-15T10:16:00.010-04:00

If you know me even a little bit you know I am big on Nail Design. Art is everywhere, so I say don't skip the nails. Color Color Color. French Manicure?????? Sooo Overrated! Yeah I said it! (or typed it ;) Too many of us are afraid of color. Too concerned about what the boss is gonna think? Get colorful with the toes, then! Rocking nail design is a great way to display body art without the commitment of tattoos, piercings or hair coloring, if that matters.
I'm not into playing it safe just because "I'm supposed to", but I believe in expressing one's self in anyway possible. I was born in Panama and yes I represent for mi gente!!!! As some of us may know, Panamanians have our own Manicure! Media Luna to be exact, which means "half moon" en ingles. So I go to the best Nail artist in Brooklyn, if not Nueva York, if not the world! Of course she's Panamanian born and bred and she's a beast with the nail art, yall. Everyone agrees and comes from near and far to get their nails done in styles reminiscent of a Basquiat painting. I opted for the traditional "Media Luna" style but with non-traditional colors (green/black) Check out the more conventional colors via my previous post from last summer here.

Never let societal pressures stop you from being yourself. Inspire. Create. DESIGN YOUR LIFE.

I call this Afro-Panama Punk. People say they look like danger, like animals-who-bite-or-sting-or-are-poisonous kinda danger! I love those animals =)PEACE+BUTTERFLIES
From LITE}{

Where in the World is......

2009-07-05T19:09:00.002-04:00

Between here and there....I have been getting back in touch with my NYC peoples, checking out the style on the street, getting and giving love! I'm meeting some great innovative artists that I hope to be working with soon :) This chica is excited to be returning back for another quarter of my interior design program, and doing some modeling gigs this summer! I'm coordinating a fashion/hair show for an awesome cause in August, so details will be coming.....till I plant my feet at home I'll leave you with a pic of me all tanned up and happy, just how I like it :) Soon & Latas, Ya'll!

PEACE+BUTTERFLIES
From LITE}{

What more can I say? What more can I do?

2009-06-27T19:12:00.001-04:00

He was my favorite and closest stranger. Here he is in one the most fashionably/well designed video he's been apart of. Him and his sister remind me of my brother and I. Listen to his words, he's been trying to tell us something all along! Respect Life. Design Your Life.

We love you, MICHEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAL!

PEACE+BUTTERFLIES
From LITE}{

Simple, Spicy and Oh-So-Cheesy

2009-06-05T16:04:00.008-04:00

Ok, so we all have figured out that I am totally PRO-VEGAN Right? Great. That makes me sooo happy inside. What a wonderful world it would be, if we were all vegan. Ok, so back to the present world that we live in :/ In the meantime we still need to keep it fit/fresh/forever more. Yes folks, being vegan is a process and not a temporary diet or fad. Imagine being vegan for 40 or more years..........(imagining)..........Well that's the plan for this chica. An adventurous life filled with energy, vigor and longevity.

So, here is a scrumptuous good snackin' idea I came up with for the always-hungry vegan, vegetarian, or health-conscious humans out there. I promise you this yummy idea came outta nowhere but just my extreme love for cheese (once in a while) and popcorn :) Remember I'm 85% vegan, so gimme break on the cheese part. Popcorn aids in digestion because it has what we call fiber. Plain, air-popped popcorn is also fat-free which = a sensible, easy snack.

Spicy Vegan Cheesy Popcorn

Plain Popcorn (Organic, preferably not microwaved, and freshly popped, or even all-natural store bought, pre-popped)
Extra-virgin Olive Oil
Sea Salt
Paprika
Cayenne Pepper
Miscellaneous herbs of your choice, just look in your cupboard....(rosemary, basil, , yeah that'll do it :)
Nutritional Yeast Flakes (this plays the role of a cheese alternative)
Black Pepper

Put popcorn in a bowl/container that can be covered or keep in a bag that can be closed for shaking purposes
Add Olive oil basing it on the amount of popcorn you're using. (You may lightly warm the olive oil on the stove for a nice toasty feeling :)
Shake container with oil and popcorn allowing the oil to coat the popcorn nicely.
Add, paprika, cayenne pepper, sea salt, black pepper, and any other assorted herbs.
Shake covered container/closed bag again allowing the "seasoning" to stick to the olive oil
Next add the Nutritional Yeast flakes
Shake again and add a little more olive oil if necessary.

Remember to add each ingredient to your tasting. If you are "hot tamale" then add a lil more of the peppers and so on.

Enjoy with someone fun, familiar and/or someone who loves you dearly because once you start eating, it will get messy, ha ha! Perfect for you and your signifigant companion to incorporate other activities with, tee hee!

PEACE+BUTTERFLIES
From LITE}{

OOOOhhh, that's my Sh*t!!!!

2009-05-28T21:21:00.011-04:00

We have all seen the scene in the movie Slumdog Millionaire where the younger brother is having a bowel movement aka taking a sh*t and alllllll the neigborhood's poo is permeating right under him on the ground, correct? Some of us have even witnessed up close and personal outhouses where you relieve yourself outside, right? BUT, what about a water-less, YES that's right, water-less toilet! I was shocked and amazed to find out about Envirolet's toilets that either uses little to or no water, run on solar batteries/non-electric and composts your feces, (yes folks). Your lovely waste will never hit sewage plants, landfills or the unknown distant (or not so distant island) it usually is shipped to (YUCK). So. I don't know all the specifics but this company has actually been around since 1977???? Where have I been? Totally missed the memo. I'm really open to something like this. I think it's an awesome idea as long as it's not smelly. Whoa no! That is not going down, in my home! This is perfect for campers, RVs, Cabin homes, and of course your lovely outhouses. We all have one of those, right? Ha!

I am down with this, and will continue to do more research on this environmentally and slightly stylish, somewhat aerodynamically shaped waste container. Yes. That's what I will call it. Take a look.......

How far will you go to be GREEN? This sh*t is BANANAS!

Nature's Nails

2009-05-13T12:18:00.005-04:00

Ok, so I totally love nail design/art. It's an awesome way to display my love for color, patterns, etc. Since I am 85% vegan, (yeah, that's what I call it :) I am happy to find YES! vegan nail polish. I was getting my nails "did" the other day and skimmed thru a salon magazine and found out about Sparitual nail lacquers. Formaldehyde free, and free of all that other toxic stuff that makes nail polish so odorous. At first I was thinking there would only be like 5 colors available, but they actually have over 40 shades! So I'm ordering some now. They also specialize in eco-friendly/vegan nail care products. I'm elated! I can't wait to try it out. yup.

Here's a lady whose nails I've always dug. Work them nails, Doll!
She's sooooo pretty...
PEACE+BUTTERFLIES
From LITE}{

Lucky Bamboo

2009-05-04T12:46:00.005-04:00

Ok, so I'm a little late but I am uber-excited about my latest find!!!! Just when we thought we couldn't get more fashionable, or more green, or more fit, here comes Bamboo Bikes to the rescue. As some of us know Bamboo is like the world's fastest growing tree/plant/greenery. So this makes it one of the most earthfriendly, natural material. Cutting down bamboo is like magic, I'm so serious! It grows right back, yo! Makes more sense than cutting down the South American rain forests, right? Uhhh yeah.

Soooooo, now there's Bamboo Bikes. You got it! Bikes made from bamboo. Here's a pic:

Not only are they ca-ute, the purpose is there. A factory to produce Bamboo bikes in Kenya is in the making. I missed the Bamboo Bike Block Party, which took place in Brooklyn, yesterday (Bummer). I sooooo want one. For Christmas, Kwanzaa, Labor Day and what ever else we celebrate! I will see what the price tag will be ;) For more info click this.

PEACE+BUTTERFLIES
From LITE}{

Been So Long.....Been Missing You Baby.....

2009-05-02T09:43:00.007-04:00

Yes, Yes...I been gone too long. Hibernation is what I'd like to call it. Learned some things while I was away. Interior Design School is awesome, I'm so enjoying it! Had a couple of dinner parties (YEAH!) and had my first TEA Party, (Ladies Only). Spring is when I re-enter the outside world. (Ok, that was an exaggeration) I'd been swirling around in my head the idea of the modern day tea party and decided the theme would be the Sex in the City Movie. Hence the name, THE SEX IN THE CI-TEA PARTY. We watched the movie while sipping on herbal teas, iced tea and some "homemade" Long Island Iced Tea!!!! YUP. Teas galore! We even played a little trivia game and discussed all things girly. It was like a grown up slumber party without the PJs. Fun Fun Fun.

Next Tea Party coming up will be Co-ed, lol. The New Jack Ci-TEA Party. Yeah, you read right. More tea drinking, movie watching and more chances to put my interior design and event planning ideas to work.

Here's one idea. Use real plates and silverware! Yes, I know they will have to be washed but it's just a more grown-up, and eco-friendly way to entertain and serve your guests. It makes 'em feel special!!! Breaking out the wine goblets, and tea cups etc. is cool when the guestlist is no more than 10, total. Otherwise plastic (not paper) plates and cups are the way to go! AND I know you are all recycling, right? Have guests put all recyclable items in your at-home recycling bin. Here's a cool and reasonably priced one that I have at home: http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/90076364

Here's what I'm feeling about being away. I promise I won't do it again :)

Been So Long (LP Version) - Anita Baker
PEACE+BUTTERFLIES }{

Proud+Prego+Powerful

2009-02-09T10:01:00.006-05:00

Who performs on the Grammy awards at 9 months pregnant? M.I.A. does. I'm not mad at her all. For those of us who watched, I feel like this performance spiced up the usually mundane award show, that it has come to be. I get tired of seeing folks all dressed up in evening gowns obviously trying to please the fashion police and following "the rules".

Needless to say, many did not approve of her wardrobe choice, but what did they expect M.I.A. to wear??? A modest cover-up!? Come on. She is an artist. She does what she wants and that's why we love her. Nuff said.

Check out the flick of her performing "Swagger Like Us" with T.I., Jay-Z, Lil' Wayne and Kanye West.

Hats OFF to the Queen

2009-01-24T14:05:00.005-05:00

See now, I'm not a lover of rhinestones and crystals but I so enjoyed the hat Aretha Franklin rocked @ the Inauguration on Tuesday. Never mind what she was singing, this was the best she's dressed in a while. This is what I call Winter Wonderful.It was totally fab and fitting for a woman of her age, and her level of accomplishment. Plus she did GRAY!!!! I love that she didn't just be lazy and go for wearing the usual black that so many people do. Some said it looked like a bow on a present, but isn't she a gift to the world??? I mean, my 1st name means "gift from God", OK! The Queen of Soul has given us so much over the last decades and I was glad to see her adorned with a beautiful crown and that her cleavage wasn't the highlight of her performance and outfit. What did you think?

There seems to be way more lovas than hatas though. A new fan page has started on facebook (and yes I joined as a fan) and it's over 70, 000 strong.The creator of the hat is Luke Song of Detriot who owns/operates his father's hat shop. He currently sells his hats to thousands of stores around the country and Aretha has been getting hats made from his company for 20 of the 25 years it's been open. This gray, some say flamboyant number, is estimated to be valued at $500 bucks (free for Ms. Franklin), but replicas are available for under $200. Thousands of Church Ladies, Divas (hate that word, but you get the picture, lol) and Distinguished Fashionistas everywhere are ordering from Mr. Song Millinery for their own satin version. Smart move Mr. Song....I am not mad at you. (I hear he's having trouble keeping up with all those orders. I wonder why:)

Keep stylishly warm ya'll! Ciao for now}{

New Year, New Accessory

2009-01-17T20:01:00.010-05:00

I've missed out on at least 3 really cool events this week and I blame them all on this new accessory I've been dragging around with me all week. The goings-on that I was unable to attend were as follows:

A Quincy Jones Party: The point of this shindig was to play music that this producer extraordinaire has put his stamp on in some way, shape or form. That is actually a hell of a lot of music, folks! I looked at this as a musical learning experience for me. I like stuff like that. A party with a history lesson attached, along with food, drinks and the usual. Makes sense to me.

Next, songstress Shaleyah along with her band Waterseed had two performances this week. One on Thursday and one (today) Saturday. Shaleyah is an artist that I've been wardrobe styling/image consulting for and she's pretty talented. I planned to show some support and check out these two shows. Oh well!

Now, today there's a fashion show today by a designer whose new line is called Demetrius Shun. I was invited and was most likely going to go. I'm a designer, I model, I like to socialize, plus art and fashion expression are so important to me. I'm soooo there, right? NOT!

SO, what is this accessory item I've been sooo attached to lately?

A DAMN zit. AKA pimple AKA crater AKA pubescent mark!!!!! No biggie you say? I wish! It's the size of a fricken spaceship if you ask me! I don't usually sweat them, but then again, I don't usually get them (and never in this size!) Yes, I am an adult. I'm generally confident and yes I'm a social bug. So you gotta understand my conflict. Like I said, I am an adult so why in heaven's name am I dealing with this right now in my grown-ass life, lol??? I saw the woman at the doctor's office this week staring at this 3-dimensional addition protruding from under my left eye while she complemented me on how ca-ute my earrings are. She couldn't take her eyes off of it! And neither can I. I can actually see it when I look down and I can feel the weight of it on my face. Ha! I know I may be having a teenager moment right now but if you saw it you'd understand. (Sorry no pics, lol)

All I can say now is that I'm looking forward to next week when hopefully I can step out and attend some things other than the basics - school, appointments and weekly errands???

Here's to the future. The very near future.

New Year, New Me, I guess. Now I feel a bit better.

Ciao for now }{

Back from the HOLLY-DAZE

2009-01-09T13:41:00.018-05:00

This year at my home we hosted our annual end-of-the-year Kwanzaa Gathering where we invite friends/family over to celebrate for food and festivities. I'm glad to say this year was waaaaay better than last year's. We are totally embracing our new tradition and look forward to 2009 which will make it year three of us celebrating.

I loved how everything came together from a design standpoint. Here are some glimpses that I managed to capture between hosting and taking a sip of wine when I got a chance......lol

This is my "Honeydew" doing the Kwanzaa ceremony. He decorated the table allllll by himself. Notice the pop culture tree on the left that I decorated which included disco balls, a South Park character ornament, Hello Kitty ornaments, two dream catchers, a couple of owls and a gold grenade! lol Now the stockings on the left and the right of it are handmade by my Mommy-in-law!! Now that's a handy woman. She even put African proverbs on each one for us. HOW SPECIAL...Here's a close-up below:
Here's a mouthwatering sample from the menu below which included:

Barbecue-un meatballs (vegan)
tofu stuffing (vegetarian)
mushroom pockets (vegetarian)
seasoned salad
curry vegetable rice stir-fry (vegan)
assorted fresh fruit
mango creme cake
Spicy popcorn (vegan)
beers from all over the damn world
and wines galore, lol

Cool friends.....
Some serious nails....all equal a happy me....I like how 2008 ended, and so far 2009 has been interesting. (more on that later) I'm off to plan a dinner for four for tomorrow. I plan on documenting life more this year and will share more of my design and lifestyle escapades and ideas. More pics to come! Yippie!

Injoy and Be Happy Ya'll }{

Oh yeah, here's a blast from my past song/video that just came to mind that really embodies how I'm feeling about today and the future. 1997 folks, that's all I have to say! lol I hope this song is on her greatest hits album, if she has one, that is.

Gimme, Gimme More!!!!

2008-12-22T11:40:00.007-05:00

Greetings!

It's that time of year and I know some of us are still scrambling for last minute gifts. I've been hearing about families who cannot afford to give their children the usual amount of gifts this time around. Some are unable to give anything at all.
If you are going to be giving, please don't feel the need to over-exert your wallet and bank account(s). It's really not that serious. I hear about folks (who are financially-challenged AKA debt rich) getting their children (ages 9-12) laptops and cell phones and outfits and money and think to myself, "this has gone way too far". If you are a parent or any person giving at all, remember the thought is what really counts. If someone loves you less because you gave them only 2 gifts under 50 dollars, then screw them! (unless they are your children, mate, or other really important family member or friend, lol) I guess it's OK to screw your mate???? That should be a low cost PRESENT!

Here are some alternative last minute "gift" ideas:

Doing a family project together, such as redecorating a room in your home. This will have a long-lasting effect on your family and hopefully so will the results!
Cooking/preparing a meal together for your family or another family/member of your community. Trust me they will appreciate it.
Making cards/gifts/books together out of fun items such as paint, wood, newspaper, Popsicle sticks etc. Gifts that are personalized show how much thought and/or effort you put into it.
Giving books! There are books on every topic known to human kind. There's something for everyone. Children of course, should always be flooded with books just because :)
Adopting another family. There is somebody worse off than you no matter what situation you are in. Look in your cabinets, basements, attics and closets. All that crap that you never use, can go to a family that really needs it.
Fasting from certain foods, TV, or other addictive activities as a family is a great gift. It will bring the whole group/family closer together. Try it with a couple of friends or coworkers that you share commonalities with.
Support vendors and businesses in your community (online and nearby) that support you! That means that they are beneficial to your family, your schools, your parks, etc. Farmers markets could be a good place to start.
Patronize small businesses. Especially now with the economy in such bad shape small business owners depend on the people who live in their neighborhoods in order for them to continue to thrive.
Invite somebody over or visit someone just because. It can be lonely around this time of year for some of us. Give someone a call or send an e-card or mail them one. Sometimes company is the best gift of all. Unfortunately the suicide rate goes up at this time of year, too:(
Chill out with yourself! It's not a selfish thing to reflect on you and give yourself feedback on what can better someone else who's really important. That's you!

INJOY, Ya'll }{
PEACE+BUTTERFLIES

DESIGNER HI-LITE

2008-12-18T12:27:00.004-05:00

Greetings!!!!
OK, so if you're gonna get that special homegirl, sister, partner (or me! lol) something for Kwanzaa or Hanukkah or just because they deserve some fly threads, please stop by this site.... BoxingKitten. OMGoodness! I'm so elated to see beautiful, body-conscious clothing with flava!!! I love the extra-ness of it all. Here's a sample or two...

Sweet and dainty and dope and innovative all at the same time!

Here's Entertainer/Fashionista Extraordinaire Erykah Badu (below) wearing Boxing Kitten for a magazine shoot

Boxing Kitten Designer Maya Amina wearing the "Billie Dress" inspired by Ms. Holiday of course!

African prints. Retro designs! Inspired by iconic women such as Josephine Baker & Eartha Kitt? You can actually order a design based on color groups? Great Idea.
Email me @ lite(dot)freedomariposas(at)yahoo(dot)com if you need to know what size I wear. I'm easy. I like any color group, obviously lol;)

Injoy}{

Peace+Butterflies