Mocha Beauti - A Blog For Women of Color

B Healthy: How to kiss Winter's dry skin goodbye

2010-01-06T22:16:00.001-05:00

B Healthy

During the winter months it's cold, the weatheris nasty, colds and flu's wreck havoc, and people suffer from dry skin. No one wants itchy, dry, chapped skin. So many people try everything to get rid of it but it seems like there is no hope but here is a few tips on how to give your skin some relief.

Use a humidifier. During the winter, the inside of your house becomes hot and dry because of the heat. This hot and dry air then makes your skin dry. A humidifier helps bring moisture into the air and circulate the air to relieve you from some of the dryness.
Cut down hot showers and baths. Everyone likes taking a hot shower or bath to relax but prolonged exposure to hot water strips the skin of essential vitamins and minerals needed to maintain moisture. Also after your shower or bath, pat your skin dry instead of rubbing it, this leaves small droplets on the skin that makes it easier for moisture to be absorbed into the skin.
Moisturize. Your moisturizer is vital during this time. There are many brands that you can choose from located in our very own Mocha Beauti Shop such as Ary's Natural Whipped Body Butter or Juara Candlenut Body Creme but when all else fails simple petroleum jelly will work.
The last tip and maybe a very important was is to DRINK LOTS OF WATER, if your body is well hydrated your skin would be too.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

2010-01-01T14:59:00.000-05:00

Have a blessed & prosperous 2010!

Men Are Not the Enemy

2009-11-02T19:35:00.003-05:00

Often after a break up women adopt negative feelings about the opposite sex. We swear off the entire male population and proudly boast to our closest girls 'I'm never doing this again, I am done with men!" As much as this temporary exclaimation soothes our disposition, surely we don't mean it.

Yes,yes men can be thoughtless, insensitive,inconsiderate, egotistical, selfish,unfaithful,disrespectful down right jerks!!!! I agree. However,that is not a fair or true statement for ALL men. There are honest,loyal, respectful, sensitive,caring positive men in this world. Both genders bear positives and negatives in respect to relationships and let's be real, none of us are perfect.

Instead of blaming the man, how about examining ourselves. Are we truly ready for the kind of relationship we say we want? How well do we relate to ourselves? Do you love yourself enough for somebody to love you? Are we chosing the right man or the right now man?

I've had my share of break ups, but ultimately, being able to decipher who I am, what I need and what I'm prepared to give, allows me to make healthy decisions in my relationships.

These are questions we need to ask ourselves even if we fear the answers. Instead of condemning men, we should be condemning the confinements that shackle our conscious thoughts and values keeping us from loving ourselves truly and freely as we deserve.

B Inspired by Minister Yvette Pressley - Fall Forward

2009-10-08T08:04:00.004-04:00

With this falling economy, many find their faith has fallen, trust has fallen and motivation has fallen. We fall away, fall out, fall off, fall back and fall in - into depression, into discouragement and disgust. Often times, it is hard to make a comeback. Our Higher Power gives us an assurance that if we place our trust in Him, He is able to keep us from falling. But if you fall – fall forward. The song writer wrote, “We Fall Down but We Get Up.” You may not always make the mark. What’s more important is how you recover. Own up to your mistakes. Stay connected to the one who has the blueprint for your life. Devise a new plan and move forward. Keep believing. Keep the faith and continue to work. Don’t let anything or anyone stop you.
Fall Forward.

Min Y Pressley

New Feature – B Inspired

2009-10-07T22:40:00.001-04:00

We are glad to announce a new addition to the blog entitled – B Inspired by Minister Yvette Pressley.

Aside from her church engagements and philanthropic duties; Minister Pressley is also the owner of El Shaddai Productions, a design and event house that caters to upscale events, specialty interior design, and custom suits for men and women. We are pleased to have her as a contributor - her posts will help keep us encouraged and inspired.

Later Mochas!

Cross My Heart and Hope to Die.... Is it ever okay to tell a secret?

2009-10-06T21:18:00.002-04:00

Is it ever okay to share a secret? That was the topic of discussion this past weekend at a friend’s dinner party.

The resounding answer was YES. Here were some of the comments:

As long as it’s in a different circle.
It depends on the situation.
It wasn’t really a secret if you told someone.
If it’s a detriment to someone safety.
If it has anything with safety and concern of children.
If the secret can be used as a learning tool.

What’s your take?

Leggings, Stockings, Knee Highs & Socks

2009-10-05T07:06:00.004-04:00

Okay so the temperature is steadily dropping and it's time to cover up; check out these fun and vibrate essentials for your legs and feet.

WELOVECOLORS.com features opaque tights with funky patterns and cheerful colors; the store also carry's mini dresses, dancewear, and gloves.

Zebra Tights $14.00

Caroline Geys Custom Tights $45.00

Splash Color Nylon $10.00

Fishnet Lace $12.00

AMERICANAPPAREL.com always fresh and fashion forward

RSARS Rochelle Satin $36.00

Printed Cotton Stripped Legging $30.00

RSASKTH Stripe Thigh - High $15.00

The SOCKWIZARD.com is stocked with fun styles for everyone:

Camouflage Socks $11.99

Denim Pockets $11.99

Camel Diamond Plaid $9.99

Lion Stripe $13.99

Later, Mochas!!

B Healthy Series: 6 Great Websites For Health & Fitness

2009-09-22T10:21:00.000-04:00

Mysistahs.org is a website created by and for young women of color to provide information and offer support on sexual and reproductive health issues through education and advocacy.

Started by a physician BlackWomensHealth.com has a simple philosophy and mission: to be the premier Internet site dedicated to promoting the physical, mental and spiritual wellness of today’s African American woman. Furthermore, the site will educate and empower women on ways to improve their health status in an effort to live happier, more productive lives.

EmpowHer.com is a unique online resource dedicated to helping women improve their health and well-being. We provide up-to-date medical information, access to leading medical experts and advocates, and a devoted community of women who ask questions, share stories, and connect with one another in a safe and supportive environment.

Yogaflava.com is the brainchild of yoga instructor Robin Downes; who found a creative way of adding a little flava to yoga by including soulful grooves and ancient moves for healing and overall well being.

WomensHealthmag.com - This site seeks to achieve the balance between living life and staying healthy features on fitness, sex & relationships, nutrition, weight loss, and women’s health issues.

DailyBurn.com – This website features a food search menu that contains over 170,000 foods with detailed nutritional facts and calorie counts, their exercise library contains actual video instruction of various workouts from abdominal programs to strength building. Track what you eat online and record your workouts in minutes.

Later Mochas!

Atlanta Houswives Sheree Debuts Her Fashion Line - She by Sheree....Check It Out!

2009-09-13T20:09:00.000-04:00

I think she played it way to safe..........

And We're Back..........................

2009-09-08T22:44:00.000-04:00

Hey Mochas…..kiss kiss and a big hug. Summer just flew by for me, since being in school (for fashion design), and slaving away on my laptop constructing my special announcement……… which is that Mocha Beauti will open an online beauty boutique for women of color this fall. I am beside myself with excitement. I would love to get some feedback from you all……feel free to leave comments in the box as well as suggestions, and constructive criticisms all is welcome……...because the shop is all about you. Click on the mocha beauti shop tab in the navigation bar above to check it out. The full site is not yet available, but followers of mocha beauti will get a sneak peek to most of the site soon. You can click on “push” located on the door to enter into the visitors lounge.

Besides that I’ll be introducing the B-Series to the blog which is the following:

B healthy

Health is vital to your overall being; being healthy adds vibrancy to everything you are and everything you do. MB is committed to keeping our mocha’s on point with simple exercise techniques, tasty (but nutritious) recipes, skincare treatments, healthy hair tips, and special commentary on women’s health issues.

B stylish

MB celebrates stylish diversity and believes fashion is what you make it. Everyone has a distinct style unto themselves, which gives us our own unique flavor. MB is really not into trends (unless it’s something irresistibly cute). We firmly believe a big part of being fashionable is being comfortable in your clothes and knowing what looks good on your body type. We’re big on accessories, color (vivid colors are beautiful on mocha skin tones), and trust that you can never go wrong with classic pieces.

B savvy

Knowledge is POWER! In an effort to empower; MB will share resourceful information and shed light on important topics including personal finance, small business, politics, and technology.

B grown

When I was a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a woman, I put away childish things (I Corinthians 13:11). Evolve and expand your mind. In life, you should always be in a continuous state of evolution. Be progressive in your relationships, advance your lifestyle, accomplish your goals - in short seek development in every part of your life.

Mocha Beauti will also introduce featured writers…………and look forward to special post on vendors featured at the shop.

Later Mochas.....It's good to be back.

We'll Be Back Soon............Promise

2009-06-19T14:18:00.002-04:00

Hello Mochas,

Just wanted to inform everyone that the site will be taking a break inorder to re-vamp. So look forward to the new look and a special announcement pertaining to Mocha Beauti taking it to the next level. I'm so excited and can't wait to share the great news. I look forward to everyone's support, comments and suggestions. See ya in amount 2-3 weeks!!!

Later Mochas!!

The Benefits of Tea

2009-06-09T07:55:00.009-04:00

The addition of tea to your diet can prove to be an effective method of maintaining optimal health. Tea contains antioxidants, which have been known to fight off free radicals which can cause cancer by weakening and damaging cells. In addition, antioxidants are known to deter other major ailments such as heart disease, allergens, and also prevent pre-mature aging. Most of us are familiar with green tea and all of its therapeutic properties, but it’s not the only tea on the block.

Other teas such as Black, White, and Rooibos are also power-packed with vitamins and nutrients. Before you run out to your local grocer for a box of tea bags, you need to understand that in order to really benefit from drinking tea you need to identify a quality tea brand. Getting the most out of your tea depends on its quality. The quality of tea is determined by its grade.

Loose tea leaves are considered to be better quality and a highly concentrated grade. Most tea bags at the local grocer are considered to be a low grade of tea. Tea connoisseurs refer to tea bags as “tea dust”, because they are literally the dust from quality tea leaves (Yes, the bottom of the barrel). Whole brewed teas give you more bang for your buck and allow you to achieve optimal health results. So sip sip away………

Summer Essentials

2009-05-25T11:20:00.028-04:00

For black folks Memorial Day is the official kick off to summer. This summer we will all enjoy barbecue hopping, amusement parks, beaches, backyard parties, and more barbecues. Here are 3 items that are absolutely essential during summer.

1. SUNSCREEN
Sunscreen protects against hazardous UVA /UVB Rays.
MYTH: Black folks don’t need sunscreen. Yes, it is true that our darker hue naturally offers protection from the sun and allows us to age gracefully, but it does not make us exempt from sun damage which can cause skin cancer. Aside from that, sunscreen minimizes long-lasting blemishes and discolorations which our skin is more prone to and allows our skin to age even more gracefully.

NEED TO KNOW FACTS:
-UVB damages the outer layers of our skin by causing sunburn; it can also affect the DNA within the skin which can cause skin cancer.
-UVA penetrates deep into the skin and causes pre-mature aging, wrinkles, discolorations, and age spots.
-The number assigned to the SPF (Sun Protection Factor) indicates how much longer you will be protected outdoors. For example, if you experience sunburn within 20 minutes of being outdoors an SPF of 15 will allow you 300 more minutes of protection in the sun (20min x 15SPF = 300 minutes of protection).
-The sun is strongest between the hours of 11am and 4pm.
-Apply sunscreen 20 minutes prior to sun exposure, because it needs to set into your skin in order to protect it.
-Sunscreen should be re-applied every 2-4 hours.

Ingredients to look for in sunscreen include: Titanium Dioxide, Zinc Oxide, and AvobenzoneAlmay Sun Protector for Body Spray, $6.99
Aveeno Active Naturals Daily Moisturizing Lotion, SPF 15, $8.99

Burt’s Bees Chemical Free SunScreen $14.99

2. SUNGLASSES

UV Rays are not only harmful to your skin, but your eyes as well. Research has shown that daily exposure to very bright light can cause cataracts (cloudy vision) over time. Make sure the sunglasses you purchase are UV Protected.

Gucci Aviators, $265.99

Prada 19 LS, $179.99
Banana Republic - Sarena, $78.00

Urban Outfitters - First Lady, $14.99

Charlotte Russe - Plastic Aviators, $5.99

3. Insect Repellent Spray

Mosquitoes and ticks are the leading carriers of diseases. One bite from one of these insects can cause you to fall ill. Ticks cause lime disease and Mosquitoes can cause West Nile Viruses and other illnesses. So if you are going to be in wooded areas, parks, etc. Make sure you spray all day. NOTE: Insect repellent can reduce the SPF sunscreen by up to one-third. So increase your SPF and apply more often than normal.

Check Out New Black Movies Coming Soon To A Theater Near You.....

2009-05-16T15:39:00.008-04:00

Support Black Cinema & Black Actors!! Both Movies will be out this summer...

Precious is produced by Tyler Perry and Oprah and stars Monique and Mariah Carey its based on a true story. Click on the link to view the trailer:
http://www.hollywood.com/trailers?pid=MguK516_VF4lDW0mhoOfRWyQWWf9Biaf

Cracktown stars Kerry Washington, Evan Ross, and Rza. Click on the link to view the trailer:

http://www.hollywood.com/trailers?pid=yT8JvA2Oc1QOQRPsEQ3rtwNhiwXos3zV

Later Mochas!

Mocha Beauti Celebs and their Reality Shows - Fantasia, Keisha-Knight Pulliam, Monique, and Monica

2009-05-15T11:18:00.022-04:00

Hey Mochas, get ready for an entertaining line-up of new reality shows featuring some of our favorite mocha celebs. Here's the roll call:

Keisha And Kaseem on the Oxgen Network

Featuring our favorite little kid from the Cosby show, Keisha-Knight Pulliam. After two years of dating, she moves in with her boyfriend Kaseem Penn. The show will be based on the two newly co-habitating, being young and rich. Kaseem is said to be a successful Caribbean entrepreneur based in Atlanta who got his start in real estate . The show is being produced by Tracy Edmonds and PullPenn Productions a company that the couple owns together. It will premiere the end of this year.

Fantasia Barrino from American Idol has inked a deal with VH1 to air her reality show. The show will depict her life as a single mother/singer and there’s also talk that she’ll be returning to school. The show is set to premiere early next year.

Comedian/Actress/Entrepreneur Monique has a late night variety show that will premiere on BET at the end of the year.

Monica - Still Standing, will highlight her life as a mom and her journey to re-establish her music career. Set to preview on BET at the end of the year. Click below to watch Monica cry as she hears her debut single "Still Standing" for the first time in the studio.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c8Jxc0-ECEQ

It's very touching...

Attainable Cosmetic Surgery

2009-05-11T13:32:00.018-04:00

Have you ever wished you can get a little work done, but feel it’s unattainable? I’m sure all of us would want to get something altered or fixed - if we could afford it. I’d be the first in line. Even if you’re lucky enough to have health insurance it is widely known that they do not pay for cosmetic surgeries. Maybe you want to fix your grill, get those bunions and corns off your feet, or maybe you need a little more than crunches to get that tummy together. Well Mochas, guess what……. it is attainable. How?, you ask. By FINANCING. Now-a-days you can finance just about any procedure you can think of from dental work to lipo-suction and everything in between. I believe it’s worth it if it improves your appearance, self-esteem and you’re not trying to become a different person altogether.
So look into it, and maybe you’ll have your own before and after photos. Look at what a little tweaking can do:

You start with these companies:
CAPITAL ONE HEALTHCARE FINANCE
http://www.capitalonehealthcarefinance.com/
CARE CREDIT
http://www.carecredit.com/
CITIBANK
https://www.citicards.com/cards/portal/healthcard/nsc/content.do?screenID=5000

CHASE BANK
http://www.chasehealthadvance.com/patient-financing/

What would you get done?

Til Next Time....

B Healthy - Heart Disease Is No Joke!

2009-05-06T10:36:00.008-04:00

I’ve been visiting a friend in the hospital for the past couple of days; luckily she’ll be fine as long as she changes her diet. At only age 29, she suffered a mild heart attack last week Thursday. This has been a wake-up call to my friends and I. She’s what you would consider a thick chick, which a lot of black females think is cute because the guys like it. But it isn’t cute when you’re up in the hospital suffering from heart disease.

Heart Disease is the #1 killer of women in the United States. I personally feel like African-American women do not take this disease seriously enough, and wait long before it’s too late. We have mostly our diets to blame, Mac & Cheese (my favorite), Fried Chicken, and Candied Yams are real good to our taste buds, but not good for our hearts. Foods high in saturated fats (mostly animal products, processed, and pre-packaged foods) are harmful to the maintenance of a healthy heart. Obviously, smoking is a no-no. I realize now-a-days African-American women are proud of their voluptuous bodies, which is absolutely great. But please realize that extreme obesity is just not conducive to your overall health.

Here are some facts you should know, according to Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield:

•African-American women face a greater threat of death from heart disease than women of other races.

•The prevalence of Cardiovascular Disease in African-American women is 44.7% compared to 32.4% in White Women.

•77.2% of African-American women 20 and older are overweight or obese.

•33.9% of African-American women are inactive compared to 21.6% of white women.

Care for your heart by limiting greasy fried foods, sweet desserts, and adding as much fruit, vegetables, and water to your diet as you can. Being active is a big plus! Leave the car at home sometimes and walk to the store or just walk around the block. For your heart’s sake!

Mocha Beauti Celebs & Their Products: Erykah Badu, Halle Berry & Serena Williams

2009-04-29T10:07:00.019-04:00

Erykah Badu & Kiehl's teamed up to create Limited Edition Superbly Restorative Body Lotion, Cost-$55.00. This body lotion is power-packed with Argan Oil, Squalane, and Vitamin E. One-hundred percent of the proceeds up to $100,000 will support the Waterkeeper Alliance, an organization that promotes safe drinking water world-wide.

Halle Berry is teaming up with Charity Buzz to auction off a replica of the bracelet she wore in her ad campaign for Halle Perfume. The bracelet was designed by Gara Danielle and was specifically made for Ms. Berry. Proceeds from the auction will be given to the Jenesse Center, a non-profit organization that was founded in 1980 and provides help to victims of domestic violence through support facilities, education and health programs, among others. Serena Williams & Mission Skincare created, Pomegranate Lip Balmer SPF 15, Cost-$3.99. The lip balmer contains vitamins, antioxidants, and moisturizing oils that leave lips smooth and soft. Flavored with pomegranate. Proceeds from the lip balm go to Serena Williams Foundation, which aims to create an atmosphere that fosters education and provides the resources and financing kids need to continue their education past high school.

Serena is also the latest celebrity to join the HSN (Home Shopping Network). She will premiere her line Serena's Signature Statement Collection, which features a line of jewelry, handbags, and fashion pieces. Go..... Serena!! Tune into HSNtv on April 30 for this exciting premiere, check your local listings!

Later Mochas!!

Pump Me

2009-04-25T13:21:00.025-04:00

Well it's just about that time of the year where you start getting your pedicures done on a weekly basis; so that they can compliment your Spring/Summer shoes. I'm all about the pumps. There's nothing like a good pair of pumps to add a little sex-appeal to your fab. I'm currently in the midst of stocking up and had to share some of my favorite finds. Mochas....feast your eyes on these.......

BCBGGirls Amir Black Raw Leather, $109.95

Fergie Pepper Grape Soda Palatino Leather, $128.95

BCBGGirls Ariel Mulberry Painted Splash, $89.95 BCBGGirls Callya Brown Sugar Yellow/Snake, $110.00
Jessica Simpson Josette – Graphite Perfect Liquid, $78.95
Jessica Simpson Josette – Rust Degrade Patent, $78.95

Jessica Simpson Josette – Carbon Splatter Metallic, $78.95
Jessica Simpson Parigi – Shell/Burnt Pewter Studded Leather, $88.95
Johnathan Kanye Chareleston - Clear, $80.95

Dyeables Very Special Silver, $77.45

Johnathan Kayne Austrisa Taupe, $157.95
Sizzle Atlantis - $80.95

Shoes feautured are available at:
Later Mochas!!

What Men Really Think – I Would Never Marry Her

2009-04-20T09:39:00.003-04:00

So the other day I’m in conversation with one of my male friends, who is African-American and in his early thirties. He is moderately successful in several business endeavors including film and television, and he loves to trick & treat. Ever since I have known him, he has exclusively dated Latinas (preferably Puerto Ricans & Dominicans), and even has a child with one. Keep note - He likes them young; if your over 26 that’s a little too long in the tubes for him. The nerve!!

So deep into our conversation, I’m like - “When are you gonna grow up, settle down, and find you a nice Spanish girl? He retorts. Yeah, I plan on getting married, but I would never marry a Spanish girl. I said, huh? What do you mean? That’s all you date. He stated, I would never marry a Spanish woman because, they don’t age well. Their looks start to fade by age 25 and after they have a kid or two it’s definitely a wrap, because their bodies be out of shape. Who ever I marry would have to be black, because they age gracefully and still look good into their forties & fifties. All I could say was – WOW. Isn’t that some sh*t, Mochas?!

Keeping Your Mocha Beautiful: Microdermabrasion

2009-04-19T14:33:00.012-04:00

Microdermabrasion is an exfoliation process that uses crystals to remove dead, damaged skin cells in an effort to reveal new rejuvenated skin. Dermatologist use different types of crystals (aluminum oxide, sodium bicarbonate, sodium chloride, magnesium oxide to name a few) so if you have sensitive skin you definitely want to do your research further to see which crystal would best suit your skin. For those concerned about potential health hazards with crystals, another microdermabrasion option is the diamond process (same price range) which uses a microdermabrasion tip covered with tiny diamonds that loosens the dead skin cells and removes them into a cotton filter where you can view the removed cells.

The microdermabrasion process reduces pores, diminishes acne scars, fades discoloration, and makes your skin look glowingly fresh & vibrant. Microdermabrasion can be used on other body parts and is also great for fading stretch marks. The cost for microdermabrasion ranges from $100-$200 dollars. For those on a budget microdermabrasion home kits are readily available online (DERMAdoctor.com) or at your local beauty supply. The home-kits are definitely not as potent as visiting a dermatologist or local spa, but a good exfoliation is beneficial to your skin on any level.

Some consumer favorites include:

Neutrogena Healthy Skin Rejuvenator $35.00

DermaNew Microdermabrasion Acne & Oily Clarifying System $70.00

Olay Regenerist Microdermabrasion System $25.99

Later, Mochas!!!

Check Out - American Violet Movie Trailer (In Theaters This Weekend)

2009-04-15T12:13:00.017-04:00

Support Black Cinemas!!! Click The Link Below To Watch....

http://www.hollywood.com/trailers?pid=BiFc28hoEXboyw_Ssv9nIYVS33VQ1Nij

A Healthy Twist on an American Classic

2009-04-13T13:14:00.013-04:00

Since becoming a Pesce-vegetarian (meaning I still eat fish), it has been a challenge trying to replace some of my favorite meals. Cheeseburgers and french fries being one of them, I recently came across a delicious alternative:

The Shrimp Burger

If you ever made a crab cake it’s pretty similar and you can play around with the ingredients to suit your taste. But you can start with the following:

Ingredients

-One pound medium shrimp
-One onion finely chopped
-A handful of parsley
-One cup of seasoned bread crumbs
-Three tablespoons of mayo
-One egg
-Two sprinkles of salt, pepper, and Old Bay
-One-eighth of a teaspoon of Cajun seasonings
-One eighth of a teaspoon of hot sauce or jerk sauce
-Two tablespoons of olive oil
-And hamburger buns
Topping Suggestions: Lettuce, tomatoes & tatar sauce

Preparation
Clean & devein shrimp, than chop into pieces.
Combine shrimps with chopped onions & parsley, and mix in a bowl.
Add seasoned bread crumbs and the next 5 ingredients – stir or use blender.
Shape into patties, place olive into large nonstick skillet and cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Serve on buns with desired toppings.

The Shrimp Burger is 190 calories vs. A beef hamburger at 350 calories.

Sweet Potato French Fries

Ingredients

-Two large sweet potatoes
-One teaspoon of white or brown sugar
-A pinch of cinnamon

Preparation
Cut potatoes into "thick-cut french fries" and soak in cold water for thirty minutes. Pre-heat oven to 350. Place french fries in single layer on cooking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper, grease with olive oil. Bake for 15 minutes than turn around, and bake addtl 15 minutes or until light brown. Place sugar, cinnamon, and french fries in ziplock bag, and shake to coat. Yummy!

The Baked Sweet Potato French Fries is 170 vs. Regular French Fries at 250.

The B Grown Files: Examine Your Relationships

2009-04-06T10:08:00.004-04:00

The people that you choose to interact with on a regularly basis really make a significant impact on you, whether you realize it or not. Your current relationships speak volumes about you and where you’re heading in life. Continuous conflict, confusion, and drama are counter-productive to your progress and growth. So if you feel you have a bunch of two-faced, back-stabbing girlfriends, who are constantly hating (please don’t get constructive criticism confused with hating) & a bunch of trifling, good for nothing dudes -you really need to examine yourself, because in some cases you attract who you are (so, check yourself).

Stop trying to save damaged, strained relationships that really serve you nothing and just add stress to your life. Recognize when relationships need to be severed or downgraded. Subscribe to the good old-fashion three strikes and you’re out rule. Think about it, are you really going to give someone more than three chances to sh*t on you. A quick and fun way to examine your relationship is:

List your most significant relationship and answer the following for each relationship:
Examples:

Friend: Kim
The (+): Kim is fun, resourceful, trustworthy, and encouraging
The (-): Kim is selfish, needy, drains my energy, unreliable, and inconsistent
Kim’s purpose in my life: Now if you can’t answer this question……you already know!

Friend: Bret
The (+): Bret is sexy, funny, engaging, and romantic
The (-): Bret is busy, a playboy, and a weed-head,
Bret’s purpose in my life: Now if you can’t answer this question……you already know!

B Grown Tip: If you’re like me, you probably have a diverse group of friends from ghetto-hood to straight snobbish and everything in between. Wouldn’t it be nice if they all got along? But never try to force your friends to like each other; it usually turns out to be a disaster.

Later, Mochas!

March Madness

2009-03-21T19:29:00.002-04:00

Hey Mochas, I hope all is well with everyone. I apologize for not keeping the blog updated – but business has been booming for me, and this month is crazier than last month. Just straight madness!! In case you’re wondering what I’m into its business development, and everyone is trying to start their own business right now due to massive layoffs. Anyway I just wanted to send a shout out to all of you, and let you know I’ll be back posting regularly in April. As promised, plans are still in the works to take Mocha Beauti to the next level this year. For all you entrepreneurial mocha’s this is definitely the time to get in the game. Opportunities are limitless right now, and it is wide open for innovative, swift, savvy leaders - which I know you ladies are. So get in there!! Peace Mocha’s…..