Midweek Escape

Leave of absence

2012-02-08T10:34:00.000-06:00

Hey FABS! I know I have been away for awhile and I truly do miss you all....school is kicking my boo-tay and 18 hours of it ain't helping either...just bare with me and I will return. Hope all is well. -Brittany

Pressures of beauty

2012-01-30T00:05:00.000-06:00

|JUST LOVE WHO YOU ARE|

TAG your it...Encore!!!

2012-01-15T18:54:00.000-06:00

I got tagged again for the umpteenth time by the beautiful blogger KLBGLAM- but I love it b/c I am enjoying learning so much about the other bloggers and you gals learning about me...This was a great game to create unity and I hope we all continue to uplift and grow together. I won't be tagging anyone cause mostly everyone has already been tagged, but if I think of anyone, I will be sure to include you! Here it goes....

My Questions:

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

In 10 years I want to be established in my career as a principal, but still be able to express my love for fashion in some way (ex. freelance stylist). I also want to be moved out of Texas and raising a beautiful family with peace and stability.

What are you trying to accomplish this year?

This year my goals are to grow stronger in Christ and push myself to be the best I can be in life, school, relationships, etc. I want to find stability and possible open a small business or create some path for me to earn income while completing school and rely less on others.

How do you indulge?

I indulge on thrifting and fine cuisine. Last year I stopped shopping at the mall and fell in love with Ebay and thrift stores - It is my escape when I need a break. In addition, I LOVE to cook. I faithfully watch cooking channels and love creating dishes to practice...Expensive dishes on a college student budget :/

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what THREE things would you have to have?

1. Bible- I definitely would need guidance and divine strength.

2. Ipad- I need to keep in touch with the world and of course my blog :)

3. Steak & Mushrooms- There's no better hearty combination! lol

Has blogging brought any changes to your life?

Blogging has given me a way to be heard and express my love for fashion and empowering women. I want to be a blessing to others and at the end of the day....that's why this blog was created.

Whats your fave hair product?

Silk Elements MegaSilk Heat Protection Spray- This spray helps prevent heat damage, controls my natural frizz, gives perfect light-weight shine and smells AMAZING!

Whats your favorite scent?

2006 Betsey Johnson Perfume- Even though it's discontinued, I stay stocked and get sooo many compliments. I love woody and sweet smells and this has the perfect balance. I never will get tired of this!

What makes for a perfect night for you?

A perfect night for me would be dinner on the water watching the sunset, doing a little fishing, and completing the night with the song "Let's Chill" by guy!

What do you love about yourself?

I love my giving/caring spirit and my ability to remain humble/calm in tough situations. I haven't always been this way..so I am abundantly grateful for God bringing me closer to the woman I want to be for him, myself, and others.

Whats your go-to beauty product?

Maybelline Falsies Flared- This is the first mascara that made me leave fake lashes alone and gives an instant face boost by itself.

What do you consider "comfy" attire?

What I consider comfy attire is a neutral bronzed look. I like to wear cropped tees with jeans, ugg boots, and a nice big handbag.

FAB Giveaway...

2012-01-15T17:57:00.000-06:00

Ladies if you get a chance, please go check out the FAB blog Kiwi Fashion & Beauty for a wonderful handbag essential giveaway. One lucky winner will be picked Jan. 5th randomly so HURRY!!!!

If I were your stylist....MLK Day Edition

2012-01-14T20:11:00.000-06:00

Martin Luther King Jr. was one of America's greatest leaders. He felt very strongly about the rights of Black Americans. He felt that everyone, Black or White, should have equal rights. The right to work and make an honest living, the right to vote, the right to a good education, and the right to use all public places. Martin believed in using love instead of hate to settle disagreements. He was a very influential leader, one who will always be remembered and honored in this country. This is possible because in 1983, President Ronald Reagan signed a bill declaring that beginning in 1986, the third Monday of every January would be celebrated as a national holiday known as Martin Luther King Day.

How are you going to celebrate Martin Luther King Day?

Snack Attack...

2012-01-13T00:19:00.001-06:00

Hey! Hate to say it, but ladies we ARE what we EAT! Health plays a very important factor in our everyday life and we should not take this as a care-free issue. Many of us are constantly running around trying fad diets, etc. to look the best but it honestly starts from inside. I have seen many "In Shape" people be the unhealthiest, so this is not targeted to anyone..but more of a wake up call to evaluate our diets and replace those fatty snacks with more healthy ones. Don't get scared..We can still have our curves & thickness. I just call it "Curves With A Purpose"! LET'S GET STARTED and check out my 5 top snackers!

|5| Low-fat plain or flavored yogurt with 100 calories or less

Yogurt is a quick and easy nutritious snack. It provides not only nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D, but also contains probiotics, or the 'good' bacteria of the digestive tract which provide a broad range of health benefits.

|4| String cheese

String cheese is the perfect portable snack that’s packed with protein, zinc, vitamin A and B12. At just 80 calories per serving, string cheese is the ideal way to fill up on the go and avoid all those tempting fast-food signs on the road.

|3| Shrimp & Cocktail Sauce

Shrimp is remarkably low in calories - with four large shrimp having only twenty-two total. Plus, the protein content of shrimp (almost eighteen grams in four of them) is great for building lean body mass when combined with an exercise program. Foods that are high in protein such as shrimp are also more satisfying - so there's less risk of overeating. Shrimp is clean eating at its best.

NOTE:It's best to go light on the cocktail sauce if you're eating shrimp cocktail at a restaurant since it can be high in sodium and sugar. Cocktail sauce does have some redeeming value though. Since it's made with ketchup, it contains lycopenes - a carotenoid that's heart healthy.

|2| Turkey Jerky

Because moisture and fat is removed from the meat during the preparation process, it is an excellent source of protein (as much as 15g of protein per serving size) and is generally 97% Fat Free. BUT...Keep in mind though that all jerky meat-types are somewhat different when it comes to calories, fat, and protein per serving size.

|1|Pretzels

Pretzels can be a healthy snack, with vitamins, minerals and fiber, and whole-wheat pretzels contain even more fiber. Pretzels can be helpful in losing weight because are low in calories, and they are a tasty treat many of us enjoy. Pretzels are also low in saturated and total fat.

SO...WHAT SNACK ARE YOU TRADING IN??

|SPEAK UP|

If I were your stylist....

2012-01-13T00:02:00.000-06:00

Fab Feature: Niesha Bell

2012-01-08T20:57:00.001-06:00

This month's "fab feature" is an amazing woman. I met her through my cousin and happy to say she is such a sweet person. When she's not busy playing mommy to her son, you can catch her looking haute. I picked her because she has FAB fashion-sense and is another positive woman doing great things for herself and those around her. Thanks Niesha!

|KEEP READING FOR INTERVIEW|

Name: Niesha Bell

Location: Austin,Texas

Occupation: State Employee/Student

What does womanhood mean to you?Womanhood means to me strength. It is the rise of the essence of a woman in her physical, mental, intellectual, and spiritual sense, (Like the transition from a girl to a woman). Going through life an experiencing obstacles, learning from your mistakes and continuously taking steps forward in life. Being motivating, encouraging, and positive. Being in touch with your divine aspects of nature which personifies the compassion, nurturing, unification within (Such as being a grandmother, mother, sister, daughter aunt, niece). It is the awakening which establishes a connection between our inner self and the external surroundings.

What defines Your style?

I am such a versatile person. Being born in the 80’s and growing up through the 90’s and into the 2000’s each decade being completely different from the other, but in all are a transition piece from one another. In my style today, I think it represents a transition of my life. When I was younger I went through the tom boy stage, to the school girl look, then through the edgy all out phase, to the overly sexy phase, to the laid back chill phase, and then to where I am now. I guess if I had to call it something it would be glamorously live, outgoingly over the top, tastefully flirtatious, laid back and chill.

What keeps you motivated in life?

God, my son, and the fear of failing in life. God is my motivator because I would not be the person I am today if it had not been for him. I have been in some pretty dark places were I didn’t see myself getting out. I didn’t see what they call the light at the end of the tunnel. But someway, somehow God changed that for me. I don’t know how and I sure don’t know why, but he believed in me at times when I didn’t believe in myself. Even after all the mistakes and the constant questioning of my Faith he instilled in me the ability to have a child. To be able to have a child is a blessing; it is so much more than you and your significant other deciding you want a baby or even you accidentally becoming pregnant. First of all, God doesn’t make mistakes and that child you were blessed with is Gods Child and if he blesses you to be a Mother that is him saying; I trust you with my child; to protect him, and raise him so that he will return back to me. My little boy is my other motivator. He is an everyday reminder that God Trusts me.

One Interesting thing about yourself?

I'm not a very shy kind of person. Growing up I always spoke what was on my mind. I never really had a problem expressing myself when need be and speaking in front of people wasn’t a very big problem either. At a young age my Mother instilled in me the confidence I would need to be able to do those kinds of things. But one thing I have always struggled with is approaching a man. If I see a good looking guy, then that’s it. I just saw a good looking guy.) I would not go up to him and start a conversation or even try to get to know him better. Its not because I don’t want to, I guess im just a scaredy cat. It may sound crazy, but I really am. Friends laugh because Im so confident in other areas, but when it comes to that I am scary, for real!!!

If you could take ONE thing with you on a desert island what would it be, and why?

I would take a note pad and something to write with. I would want to record the experience; everything I seen, my emotions, and all of my experiences. I would do this just in case I didn’t make it off the island. Hopefully some day, someone can use this information and possibly turn it into a movie or even a book. But if I did make it off the island this information would remind me of the experiences I went through and to never to put myself in the situation that caused me to end up stranded on some island.

Words of Wisdom to the ladies:
Know your worth...and if whenever in doubt choose yourself

Favorite song @ the moment?

Jennifer Hudson- I Remember Me

Must have beauty item?

Lip Gloss

Niesha, thank you so much for taking out the time to do this interview!! You are truly a wonderful person and I wish you nothing but happiness and success in all your endeavors. Continue to shine!!!

Ladies feel free to comment below

|Speak on it|

2012-01-05T13:50:00.002-06:00

TAG your it

2012-01-02T19:11:00.001-06:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR LADIES!!!!!

I enjoyed bringing in the new year @ church and spending time with my honey...I know God has so much lined up in my life and I am ready to start the quest. #chasingdreams

Sooo I had the honor of being "TAGGED" by the adorable Miss Dre @ http://www.soshewritesbymissdre.com make sure you stop by and check her out!

Questions:

1. What makes you happy?

Spending time with family and helping others. It brings ultimate Joy to my heart to know I made someone feel better.

2. What do you love most about yourself?

I love my giving spirit and my intelligence

3. What is the best thing anyone has ever done for you?

All the support during my brother's death

4. How would you describe love?

Embracing life...it's the happiness you feel everyday when you open your eyes.

5. Do you pick your friends like you pick your fruit? lol

I can count my best friends on one hand and they have been down with me since 6th grade..at times I wish I had more, but at the end of the day I know they are TRUE FRIENDS and I'm thankful

6. Are you missing someone right now? If so, who?

Pieces to my family history...I just started genealogy and I wish I could fit the pieces to the puzzle a lot easier and have my ancestors around.

7. What is the most influential book you’ve read?

Hill Harper: The Conversation- he laid issues in my lap so that I could no longer ignore them and offered courage and assistance to make a change. This book was so honest and open. It made me acknowledge and face things that were hidden within the black family.

8. What is the most influential movie you’ve watched?

Eat.Pray.Love

9. Who’s your favorite reality tv star?

I love Emily from Love & Hip Hop. Her fashion sense is the bomb.com and she is so humble....God has big plans for her.

10. What’s your current favorite music video?

@ This time-PARTY by Beyonce...so fun and has a 90s vibe which I love

11. What’s your favorite song?

Let's Chill-Guy This will FOREVER be the best song invented :D

THIS WAS SOO FUN!!!!!

HERE ARE MY 11 QUESTIONS FOR YOU... TAG YOUR IT

1. What is one thing you would change?

2. Who is the most influential person in your life?

3. What puts a smile on your face?

4. What do you feel is your purpose?

5. What fashion era is your favorite?

6. What's one "Unexpected" thing about you?

7. Do you believe in Love?

8. Live. Laugh.______

9. You can't live without?

10. Blogs/Blogging gives me?

11. I want to see more of _____ on Midweekescape?

Christmas RECAP

2011-12-27T15:41:00.000-06:00

HO HO HO Ladies...I hope each of you had a FAB CHRISTMAS!!!! I was so caught up in being with my family and loved ones that I did not get to take any pics of my outfit this Christmas season, but I know many of you were stunning! This year, surprisingly, I kept it very simple and rocked grey and black with a pop of blue suede. Here is a similar recap of what I wore this holiday. I PROMISE TO START HAVING MORE PICTURES :D ENJOY!

WHAT DID YOU WEAR |SPEAK UP| ????

Traveled to the 80s

2011-12-22T13:39:00.000-06:00

This is nowhere near my typical everyday look, but I was jamming 80s classics today and wanted to recreate myself....Gosh I have to get a tripod or a camera person soon...I am screaming for OOTD's

Ohhh Santa... Lol

“Today, fashion is really about sensuality—how a woman feels on the inside. In the '80s women used suits with exaggerated shoulders and waists to make a strong impression. Women are now more comfortable with themselves and their bodies—they no longer feel the need to hide behind their clothes.”

DON'T FORGET TO ENTER THE HOLIDAY GIVEAWAY!!!!!

Holiday GIVEAWAY!!!!!

2011-12-21T12:43:00.001-06:00

So....my first giveaway was a fail, BUT I don't mind trying this again!

Since it's the holiday season and I'm also just a SUPERCALIFRAGILISTIC person, I've decided to host a small giveaway and share a special random gift package with one lucky FAB follower.

PRIZES

BRAND NEW PAIR OF GORGEOUS EARRINGS

DECEMBER 2011 ISSUE OF "W" MAGAZINE

2 MINI'S: BATH & BODY WORK: 2OZ. BALI MANGO LOTION
JUICY COUTURE: VIVA LA JUICY TESTER

Eligibility: Giveaway is open to readers with US/Canada shipping addresses ONLY and you must follow my blog with Google Friend Connect. "Note" To follow click “join this site” in the Google Friend Connect Widget on the sidebar.NO EXCEPTIONS!

How 2 Enter:
Entry is typically made by leaving a comment & email on this giveaway post and all of the following:

Let others know about the giveaway ==> via Twitter, FB, Blog or Tumblr- include with your comment/email which social network you used.
"Like" Midweek Escape Blog on Facebook www.facebook.com/MidweekEscape
"Follow" Midweek Escape Blog on Twitter (Click follow button @ top of page)

|You may only enter ONCE|
ENDS @ 11:59 PM CST 12/28/11

Winner will be contacted via email!!!!

GOOD LUCK!!

The winner will be chosen via Random.org and will be posted once the prize is claimed by the chosen winner. If the person chosen does not respond to contact within 2 days of giveaway ending... a new winner will be chosen! XOXO

2011-12-21T06:08:00.000-06:00

What can’t come through you, can’t come to you. If you want to attract in the people, situations and circumstances that support the manifestation of love in your life, then you must feel love, believe that it is possible for you and claim it as your own. Because we draw towards us that which is most compelling within us, believing with all your heart that you can and will have love is the single most important thing that you can do on this quest for fulfillment.

--Katherine Woodward Thomas

Haute Holiday Hats

2011-12-16T14:56:00.000-06:00

Hats are one of the ultimate winter fashion accessories – ultra stylish with ultimate warmth!

Now don't act like this is a secret because we all know that hats have been a symbol of style and elegance for decades. However, there are so many new styles and types on the market to choose from...keep reading to take a look @ what hat styles I'm diggin' this winter

Wide-Brim

Complete your boho or retro style outfit with that hat and you are high on trend. Think flowing flared trousers, loose blouses with bow-tie necks, and 70′s-style double-breasted jackets to create the right mood.

Fedora Hat

You can’t really do wrong with wearing a Fedora hat. Celebs wear it with literally any outfit. There are so many styles and fabrics and finishes you just have to coordinate it with your outfit or accessories.

Vintage Hats

Pill box hats had made their appearance at Marc Jacobs’ fashion show and can be worn with modernized 60′s-inspired wear. Cloche hats which were extremely popular in 1920′s and can be worn with evening gowns and furs in a flapper-style.

WHAT HAT STYLE IS MAKING YOUR LIST THIS WINTER?

Throwback Turntable

2011-12-14T06:25:00.001-06:00

Yep...I'm back and will be continuing my |Throwback Turntable| spinning the hottest 80s & 90s R&B jams you know you still love. This time around were going to get in the holiday spirit and recognize the group "A Few Good Men" and their version of Silver Bells.

This group had a very short career, first appearing on LaFace Family Christmas in 1993. In 1995 they recorded their first album Take a Dip and made two successful hits reaching the R&B charts. I loved this song growing up and wish they still made real music like this...Enjoy

Wonder where they are now?

|Vixen|Tracee Ellis Ross

2011-12-14T04:09:00.001-06:00

Photo Courtesy: Vibevixen.com

Vibevixen.com (One of my favorite mags) has just revealed their Dec/Jan cover and what better way to share it than with such an amazing diva Ms.Tracee Ellis Ross. She will be taking us on a journey discussing topics ranging from style, personality, dating and much more. She is truly an icon!

A sneak peek into the article...

VV: Is it difficult balancing your role as producer with starring in the show?
Ross: I wouldn’t say difficult, but it’s definitely makes for a long day. But it is the kind of full plate that I adore. I adore this kind of work and it’s very rewarding. The producer role very much plays into the kind of person I am. In the evolution of my career it is a really exciting step for me because I am the kind of creative person that has a real opinion about the kind of images that I want to portray and want in the public in general. So having a seat at the table with the many voices that is part of the collaborative art of television is really and exciting and wonderful for me.

VV: Let’s talk about your style. Before when we spoke, you mentioned that some of the pieces from Girlfriends would find their way into Carla’s wardrobe. What’s the inspiration? Do you work with designers or find things out and about?
Ross: It’s stuff that’s been found out and about. The way I went about Joan and Carla is I always ask myself who this woman is. Every once in a while people say Carla is so much like Joan, and I’m like, ‘People, Tracee plays both people.’ So what you’re seeing that’s the same between Carla and Joan is not Carla being like Joan, but it’s Tracee. Tracee was Joan and Tracee is Carla. It’s so funny people don’t understand that, it makes me laugh.

FAV look by Tracee

Don't you just love this lady!!!!?

Check out the entire interview on December 19th

Did it on Em' |Nicki's OPI Collection|

2011-12-12T19:34:00.000-06:00

Yep she sure did it on us once again because this stylish and sassy doll Nicki Minaj will be launching her OPI collection this upcoming January and it's nothing but FABULOUSNESS! She's bringing her love of bold color and sparkle to our fingertips and get this|EXCITED|it's made up of shades inspired by songs from Minaj's debut album, including "Metallic 4 Life," "Fly," "Save Me," "Did It On Em," "Super Bass Shatter," and of course "Pink Friday."

Is it January yet? Lol

8.50 each
Try it on @OPI.COM

Read more for a closer look @ each color

Metallic for life

Fly

Did it on em'

Pink Friday

Save Me

Super Bass Shatter

Sooooo You Like??? SPEAK UP!!!!

Artist Alert: |STAR STATUS|

2011-12-12T09:00:00.001-06:00

Ashton Isabella

@ashmoneybank

Ladies...I am super |AmpED| to present to you a amazing Singer/Songwriter/Actress that is from my hometown Austin.

Long story short- Ashton and I went to high school together and I always knew it was something special about her beyond her beauty! This doll is on her way to the TOP and nobody is stopping her......

Her style is definitely in it's own category and I am loving every minute of her new video "WAR CRY"

Check it out!!!!

SOOOO...YOU LIKE??? speak on it.....

2011-12-12T07:07:00.001-06:00

LOVE after WAR

2011-12-12T05:39:00.000-06:00

Just had a drawn-out argument with your hun and neither of you wants to talk about it.

What now?

Arguments are part of every relationship, but how we respond to them is crucial. Our reaction to conflict or any stressful event is based on our life experiences and genetics. We all have those friends who are so laid back that nothing affects them and we also have friends who become frazzled over the smallest situations. But to successfully manage conflict, we need to manage our stress first. If you cannot quickly calm yourself down, you will not be able to hear what your partner is really saying, so you will have difficulty resolving the disagreement.

How do you stay calm when your partner is doing or saying something that is triggering an emotion?

The very first thing is to disengage and allow some time for both of you to simmer down and reflect. Because we don’t all respond to stressful events the same way, it is important to know your stress style, your unique response when faced with frustrating or upsetting situations.

It is important to know your stress response beforehand, so in the heat of the moment, you can use the technique that quickly reduces your reaction to the event.

If you yell, stomp and slam doors, you will respond best to something that quickly quiets you down. Try these suggestions and see which ones work best for you:

• You cannot be calm if you are hyperventilating, shallow breathing or holding your breath, so start by taking 5 deep belly breaths (in through your nose, out through your mouth)

• Close your eyes and picture a place that makes you feel peaceful, maybe a place in nature or a favorite place growing up

• Listen to some soothing music

• Enjoy the relaxing sound of a water fountain

• Use aromatherapy, either with scented candles or essential oils

• Go for a walk/Run

• Take a warm bath

• Drink a cup of hot tea

• Meditate

•Cuddle up to a funny flick

If arguments or conflict make you feel tearful, rejected and sad, techniques to quiet and calm may not work for you. You may need something that stimulates and energizes you:

• Dancing to lively music
• Yoga/Zumba
• Squeezing a “stress” ball
• Taking a nice drive
• Eating a healthy, crunchy snack
• Self-massage
• Singing
• Talking to a friend
• Deep belly breathing, because it increases your oxygen and shifts your body chemistry

Relationships are not perfect. Every once in a while we quarrel with our partner over some serious or not so serious matters. You have a bad day at work and you are stressed out and she/he starts to annoy you but whatever the reasons for your quarrel, there are various ways to settle and make love after the war.

What better way of telling a break-up to make-up story than with your wife? Blue-eyed crooner Robin Thicke considered this when casting his wife, Paula Patton, as the leading lady for his new music video “Love After War.”

|CHECK IT OUT|

Cupcake Cravings

2011-12-11T01:21:00.000-06:00

If you follow my FB group or know me personally, then you know I have a fetish for "cupcakes" (Seriously it's baaaad...anything cupcake-I'm sold!)

Anyway..with all this studying and finals, I have worked myself up a sweet tooth instead of eating complete meals-which I know is not good at all, but in my case I am losing pounds, so I ain't EVEN complaining. :D Yesterday while taking a break I decided to hit up that good ol' Wal-mart and decided to stroll down the baking isle....who knew I would run into

OMG!!! I snatched this up so quick and made mini- cupcakes with butter cream icing and small pecan crumbles...talking about "YUM YUM"... OK I'm sounding fatter, but make sure you check this out!!!!!! Lol

|FOOD FOR THOUGHT|

Finals are almost over.....

2011-12-11T00:09:00.000-06:00

Then we can get back to my "definition" of studying :D xoxo

TIME For The Holidays

2011-12-04T04:18:00.000-06:00

Christmas holidays are approaching and what better way to bring it in than with style?

Accessorizing is always a hot trend and women watches are at the forefront this winter...so let's take a look at some of my favorites--->Apart from Michael Kors :D

Icon Voyage Watch With Lizard-Embossed Leather Strap

A unique shape & textured leather strap makes this watch a confident choice for standout style

BCBG 125.00

Vintage Beige Skeleton Watch

Dead-stock vintage early 1990’s Luxury analog quartz wristwatch featuring Roman numerals on a clear watch face, exposing interior metalwork.

American Apparel 45.00

Titanium 'Boyfriend' Watch

Glittering jewels ring the bezel of a playfully oversized watch with a multi-function dial

Nordstrom 18.00

Leopard Cuff Watch

One word "FAB"

Bakers 48.00

Betsey Johnson 'Lots 'n' Lots of Time' Face Dial

A face graphic gives artistic flair to the large dial of a lightweight watch

Betsey Johnson 65.00

Do you like any of these???

Share your favorite watch style this season

2011-11-29T05:43:00.000-06:00