Simply Femme

Just some Entertainment Tidbit News For You

2010-02-18T16:13:00.007-05:00

While you and I were at work or home yesterday... 3 year old Suri Cruise rocked a $850.00 mini version of her mom's $1,700.00 Ferragamo purse while boarding a private plane in Jamaica.

WOW what is this girl going to be like as a teen? Pray now Cruises ! --she is stinking adorable though!!

Is she or isn't she getting back with Tiger? Today she sports all Nike gear on the way to pick up her daughter from school, which would be OK but...it just so happens so did Tiger in his "framed" paparazzi jogging shot yesterday. Nike is one of the big endorsements who did not drop Tiger after the Thanksgiving scandal. However, his speech for tomorrow (which is scheduled during a big golf event mind you) was leaked and he claims they will be living apart but he will have visitation with kids...for now.

My guess is he is trying to restore his image by living apart and going through "counseling" before they move back in together on record. That way his billion dollar endorsements will come crawling back . He must have paid her off to stay.

Back to reality, thats all folks.

Valentine's Day Traditions

2010-02-15T06:00:00.003-05:00

I hope that everyone had a wonderful Valentine's Day! Whether you're single or married, engaged or just friends, love can come in all forms. Since Kiki posted a great article about the greatest love stories, I thought I would post some of the Valentine's traditions from around the world. Enjoy!

In ancient England, children used to dress up like adults and visit homes singing love songs. In Wales, lovers exchange wooden love spoons.

During the middle ages, the young unmarried men and women used to draw names from the bowl to see who their valentines would be and then they would wear the names on their sleeves for a week.

In some countries it is believed that if a woman saw a robin flying overhead on this day then she will get married to a sailor, if she sees a sparrow then she will get married to a poor man but she will be very happy. A woman who sees a goldfinch on this day will get married to a millionaire

(Source: funmunch.com)

In Australia: Valentine's Day Festival has a history of extravagant celebrations in Australia. It is said that during the Australian gold rush period miners became extremely rich due to the new wealth found from the Ballarat Mines. These miners ordered extravagant Valentines amounting to thousands of pounds at a time. Some of the most lavish Valentines were made of a satin cushion and were perfumed and ornately decorated with flowers and colored shells. Some were even adorned with taxidermied humming bird or bird of paradise. This valuable treasure used to be kept in a neatly decorated box.

In Britain:Early Valentine's Day Tradition in Britain
Unmarried girls in Britain and Italy used to wake up before sunrise on Valentine's Day. They believed that the first man they see on Valentine's Day or someone who looks like him would marry them within a year. Girls, therefore, used to wake up early to stand by their window and wait for the man to pass. William Shakespeare, the famous English playwright, mentions this belief in Hamlet (1603). Ophelia, a woman in the play, sings:
Good morrow! 'Tis St. Valentine's Day
All in the morning betime,
And I a maid at your window,
To be your valentine!

Another popular belief held by people of Great Britain made women pin four bay leaves to the corners of their pillow and eat eggs with salt replacing the removed yokes on Valentine's Day eve. Unmarried girls to dream of their future husband followed the custom. Unmarried ladies also used to write their lover's names on paper and put them on clay balls that they would drop into the water. It was believed that whichever paper came up first, that man would be their future husband!

In Japan:Valentine's Day is celebrated in an interesting manner on two different dates in the country of Japan. On February 14, female present gifts to their boyfriends or any man close to them. The favor is returned to ladies on the White Day celebrated on March 14 when men pamper women who gave them gifts a month before on Valentines Day.

Tradition of Gifting Chocolates
There is a strong tradition of women gifting chocolates to men on Valentines Day in Japan. It is seen that two types of chocolates are more popular for Valentine's Day. One type of chocolate called giri-choco is bought for friends, bosses, colleagues and close male friends. ‘Giri' in Japan means obligation hence these types of chocolates has no romantic association. Giri chocolates are mostly bought from the store. Ladies make sure they pass on giri-choco to please all men close to them as it is seen that men who do not receive any chocolate feel embarrassed.

Chocolates for boyfriends, lovers or husbands are special ones and are called hon-mei. Many Japanese girls think that it is not true love if they buy Valentine's day chocolates for their boyfriend and hence honmei -choco is usually prepared by girls themselves. Men feel lucky if they receive honmei (prospective winner)-choco on Valentine's Day.

As chocolate is the most popular gift for the occasion, days before the festival department and grocery stores stock themselves with chocolates in large variety to lure customers. It is estimated that more than half the chocolate sold in a year is sold around Valentines Day in Japan.

Tradition of Celebrating White Day
White Day celebration in Japan is said to have been initiated as a marketing tool by marshmallow chocolate company in the 1960s. On March 14 or White Day men are supposed to give return gifts of chocolates to women who gifted them chocolates on February 14. The color of the chocolate is generally white because of the name of the day. These days, men also gift flowers, candies and other gifts along with the chocolates.

France:History of Valentine's Day in France
History of Valentine's Day Festival has a strong association with France. It is said that during the Middle Ages, there was a popular belief in France and England that birds began to mate halfway through the second month of the year. For this reason lovers saw the day special and considered it auspicious to exchange love letters and tokens of love on Valentine's Day. During fourteenth and fifteenth centuries, French and English poets and litterateurs too stressed on this idea and created a romantic image of the day in the minds of the people.

Valentine's Day Cards too are said to have originated in France. A young Frenchman, Charles, Duke of Orleans is said to have written the first written Valentine's Day Cards. The Duke who was captured at the Battle of Agincourt in 1415 is said to have written a poem or ‘Valentine' to his wife while imprisonment in the Tower of London.

Valentine's Day Custom in France
People in France once followed a peculiar Valentine's Day custom called “drawing for”. Unmarried young and old people would go into houses facing each other and begin calling out across from one window to another and pair off with their chosen partner. If the young man failed to be particularly enthralled with his valentine, he would desert her. A bonfire would be lit later where ladies would burn images of their ungrateful lovers and hurl abuses at them. The ritual was eventually abandoned as it left much room for nastiness and ridicule. French government handed-down a decree and officially banned the custom.

There was also a custom in France to exchange elegant cards containing tender messages called cartes d'amities. These were not essentially Valentine and resulted chiefly due a trend popular in England.

Italy:Valentine's Day was initially celebrated as a Spring Festival in Italy. Celebration for the day was held in the open air. Young people would gather in tree arbors or ornamental gardens and enjoy listening to music and reading of poetry. Later they would stroll off with their Valentine into the gardens. The custom steadily ceased over the course of years and has not been celebrated for centuries.

Early Valentine's Day Tradition in Italy
In the Italian City of Turin, betrothed couple used to announce their engagement on the Valentine's Day. Several days ahead of February 14, stores were decorated and loaded with a huge variety of bon-bon. Some even sold china baskets and cups filled with delectable Valentine's Day candies and tied with a ribbon. These were to be presented as gifts to Valentine.

Another interesting Valentine's Day tradition followed in Italy and Britain made unmarried girls to wake up before sunrise. People strongly believed that the first man an unmarried girl sees on Valentine's Day, or someone who looks like him would marry her within a year. Girls therefore used to wake up early on Valentine's Day and stand by their window to watch a man pass.

Valentine's Day Celebration in Italy
People of Italy see Valentine's Day as a holiday imported from US, just like Halloween and Mother's Day. For the love and lovers country of Italy, the major day for celebration of love is il giorno della festa degli innamorati. As lovers' exclusively celebrate this day family members and friends do not exchange gifts.

In recent times however, lovers in Italy celebrate Valentine's Day by expressing their love to sweethearts. Couples usually go out for dinners at pizzeria or ristorante. Just as in several other countries, the festival has been commercialized to a great extent. There is a strong tradition to exchange gifts like rose, perfume, chocolates and diamonds depending on the age and taste of person. Another popular Valentine's Day gift in Italy is Baci Perugina - a small, chocolate-covered hazelnuts containing a small slip of paper with a romantic poetic quote in four languages

India: Valentine's Day celebration is a recent phenomenon in India but has caught the fancy of people to a great extent. Though some see it as a western import and hesitate to celebrate, there exist a large and growing number of those who love the feeling behind the beautiful and romantic festival. Especially to the Indian youth February 14 signifies love - a day when people express their affection for others. Just as several other countries, people in India too celebrate the Valentine's Day by exchanging cards and gifts.

Euphoria of Valentine's Day festival can be experienced weeks before the festival. Television, radio and print media start creating hype about the festival by covering all facets of it. Gift marketers and card companies launch a rigorous campaign to lure the youngsters. Card and gift shops are interestingly decorated with symbols of Valentine's Day including roses, cupid and heart shaped balloons. Shopping malls in metropolitan cities organize fun-filled competitions and distribute discount coupons to lure the consumers.

On February 14, the Valentine's Day restaurants, discos, Cineplex, pubs and pizza parlors see a particularly busy time as couples celebrate the day in togetherness. Many boys and girls even propose to their sweetheart on this romantic day. People also express love to their friends, teachers, siblings and parents. Popular Valentine's Day gifts exchanged in India include chocolates, fresh flowers, cards, soft toys and candies. These are also clubbed with several other gifts to pamper sweethearts.

China:The celebrations of Chinese Valentine's Day or Qi Qiao Jie - the seventh eve is quite different from usual Valentine's Day celebration we see in rest of the world. There are specific and colorful rituals for the day besides the usual exchange of flowers, cards and chocolates as tokens of love between lovers.

Following the tradition, lovers visit the Temple of Matchmaker on the Chinese Valentine's Day and pray for their love and happiness and their possible marriage. Singles too visit the temple on the day and ask for their luck in love.

The Chinese Valentine Day is also known as the Daughter's Festival. Chinese girls always wished to learn a good handcrafting skill like the weaving maid. On the night of the Chinese Valentine's Day, unmarried girls offer prayers to the Weaving Maid star and seek blessings to become smarter. When the star Vega is high up in the sky, girls perform a test by putting a needle on the water surface. If the needle doesn't sink, it's a sign of girl's maturity and smartness indicating she is eligible to find a husband. Girl who passes the test may ask for any one wish. It is also traditional for young girls in China to demonstrate their domestic arts, especially melon carving, on this day. Chinese Valentine's Day is therefore also known as The Festival to Plead for Skills, The Seventh Sister's Birthday and The Night of Skills.

In some provinces of China, people decorate the ox's horn by flowers on the Chinese Valentine Day in a belief that the ritual will save them from catastrophe. Following the age old tradition women also wash hair to make them look fresh and shining. Children wash their face the next morning using the overnight water for a more natural and beautiful look.

Stargazers celebrate the festival by looking up at star Vega on the east of the Milky Way which represents Zhi Nu, and at the constellation Aquila, on the west side of the Milky Way, where Niu Lang waits for his lover to join him.

Denmark:Lover's Card
The tradition of 'lover's card' is the most popular and romantic Valentine's Day custom in Denmark. Earlier, these cards came in the form of transparent cards which reflected the picture of a lover presenting his beloved a wonderful gift when it was kept in front of light. Now any card is called a Lover's Card. Every card shop is stocked up with colorful and musical lover's card with charming Valentine messages.

Custom of White Flowers
People celebrate the custom of White Flower with immense love and care. As per the tradition, people send white flowers called 'snowdrops' to their friends and lovers.

Tradition of Gaekkebrev
Young couples also write special love poems, beautiful romantic love notes and some funny poems known as 'gaekkebrev'. It is customary for the sender of gaekkebrev to pen down a rhyme for his beloved. He is not required to put his name on it. He signs the message with dots for the lady. Now, the girl who receives the card is supposed to guess the name of the sender. If she is able to guess the right name, then she is rewarded with an 'Easter Egg' on that very year.

Valentine's Day Celebrations in Denmark
Valentine's Day is celebrated with great parties and get togethers all over Denmark. Different flowers, gifts and cards are sent across the world to the near and dear ones. In Denmark, various Valentine events take place such as musical concerts, display shows, game shows and art exhibitions take place. People book party halls and restaurants for the celebration with their Valentine. Some people love to visit the Little Mermaid, Den Lille Havfure in Copenhagen and the famous Tivoli amusement park specially on Valentine's Day while some plan special Valentine at an appealing holiday spot.

Scotland:Valentine's Day celebrations is not a grand affair in Scotland. People prefer small get-togethers or a romantic candlelight dinner. They exchange gifts and cards with their loved ones to make them feel special.

Various games are played in Scottish Valentine parties. In a most popular game, an equal number of men and women are made to write their names on a piece of paper which is then folded and placed into a hat. One hat is for ladies and the other one is for men. The female then draws one name from the men's hat and the chosen man has to stick with his Valentine throughout the party. Later on, gifts are exchanged and Valentine's Day is greeted with hugs and kisses. Such wonderful Valentine games often result in unusual marriages.

South Africa:Valentine's Day celebrations begin well in advance in South Africa. Shops and market places are beautifully adorned with fragrant flowers, love symbols like cupid, love birds, hearts and in traditional African style decorations. Week long parties and celebrations take place in various clubs and hotels. These activities highlight the tradition and South African culture. People totally indulge themselves in the African culture and art to celebrate the occasion of Valentine. Be it an old man of 60 or a young lass of 16, the joy of celebrating love is same in everybody.

Different events take place in various parts of South Africa. All the discotheques, pubs and restaurants are completely booked. South Africans as well as tourists attend huge balls where they match their dancing steps and flow in the Valentine mood with different alcoholic beverages. People of South Africa like to visit wildlife parks and sanctuaries with their friends and families. Many other events like river rafting, mountaineering amidst the exotic islands of Cape Town and Johannesburg are main attraction of the day. Luxurious resorts gives the most enthralling view and rated as one of the best place to spend a romantic evening. Apart from this, a very popular small coastal village Hermanus is just the place to be. Grand festivities are marked in the city of Durban, where innumerable tourists flock in large numbers.

(source: Stvalentinesday.org)

Do you have any special Valentine's Day traditions? What is your idea of the perfect Valentine's Day? How did you spend your day?

Valentine's Day

2010-02-13T05:00:00.004-05:00

Whether you celebrate with roses and champagne, a nice dinner with someone special, or by simply exchanging cards, at the heart of Valentine's Day is the celebration of love!

In honor of this romantic holiday, here are some of the greatest love stories in history! The following original article can be found HERE.

Cleopatra and Mark Antony

When: 31 BC

Where: Rome and Egypt

What’s So Special about Their Love: These two had a love so strong, war was waged against them to break them up. When Mark Antony left his wife, Octavia, for the mesmerizing Cleopatra, Octavia’s brother Octavian brought the army of Rome to destroy them. These two lovers were so entranced with each other that they committed suicide rather than be apart- the ultimate Romeo and Juliet true love story.

Napoleon and Josephine

When: 1800’s

Where: France

What’s So Special about Their Love: Napoleon was immediately smitten when he saw the beautiful Josephine, but it took him years to woo her. Once they were together, theirs was a stormy romance full of infidelity and drama. When Josephine could not produce him an heir, Napoleon left her for another woman, and she died of a broken heart. Napoleon never got over Josephine – rumor has it that he carried violets from her garden in his locket until he died.

Juan and Evita Peron

When: 1940’s

Where: Argentina

What’s So Special about Their Love: Juan Domingo and Evita were the ultimate political power couple. After raising herself up from poor beginnings, Evita harmed Juan Domingo and the two fell in love. They changed the entire scope of Argentinian government and became one of the most beloved political couples of the era. Just after one of their biggest political victories, Evita tragically died of cancer.

Prince Edward and Wallis Simpson

When: 1900’s

Where: England

What’s So Special about Their Love: Edward made big news – and big changes to the British monarchy – when he fell for the charming (and married!) Wallis Simpson. Wallis, an American who was unable to be a British queen, soon divorced her husband in 1934, and the two embarked on a wild romance. Edward became King of England in 1936, but he soon abdicated the throne to be married to the woman he loved.

Voltaire and Emilie du Chatelet

When: 1700’s

Where: France

What’s So Special about Their Love: Voltaire was a brilliant playwright and author who was beloved by French royal society, and Emilie was a young, intelligent socialite.

Emilie was married to the Marquis du Chatelet, but neither she nor Voltaire cared about what people thought – they went out and about together as a couple for the fifteen years until Emilie died, even living together in a house owned by her husband. These two were not only attracted to each other physically, but even more so attracted to each other’s superior intellect.

Czar Nicholas II and Alexandra Federovna

When: late 1800’s – early 1900’s

Where: Russia

What’s So Special about Their Love: Nicholas, the future Czar of Russia, fell in love with the lovely German princess Alexandra. Against the wishes of both families, they were determined to be together, and were well-known for their public displays of affection! When the Bolsheviks took the Russian royal family captive, Alexandra and Nicholas were executed. Together.

Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor

When: 1960’s

Where: United States

What’s So Special about Their Love: Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor starred together in many movies, including the story of Mark Antony and Cleopatra! Their chemistry and sexual attraction to each other could not be contained, even though they were both married to other people when their love story began.

They married, but their tumultuous relationship burned out quickly, and they divorced… only to remarry each other 16 months later in Africa!

Lord Nelson and Lady Emma Hamilton

When: late 1700’s

Where: England

What’s So Special about Their Love: Emma is a famous beauty who was a muse to artist George Romney – her loveliness is featured in many of his paintings. Emma was married to Sir William Hamilton, while Lord Nelson was married to the Lady Fanny Nelson. When they met, the gorgeous Emma was so taken with Lord Nelson that she fainted against him, calling out, “Oh, God, is this possible?!” What a meeting! They lived together with her husband for several years in an audacious affair that captivated London.

Tristan and Isolde

When: 1200’s AD

Where: Ireland

What’s So Special about Their Love: Tristan falls in love with his beloved uncle King Mark’s wife, Isolde. Involved in a bitter love triangle where all parties have love and respect for the other, Tristan and Isolde cannot deny their passion for each other and ultimately begin an adulterous affair. When King Mark finds out, he flies into a rage and kills his nephew Tristan with a poisoned sword. When Isolde learns of his death and sees his corpse, she dies of grief and falls over upon him.

Pyramus and Thisbe

When: 331 BC

Where: Babylonia

What’s So Special about Their Love: Pyramus was the most gorgeous man and Thisbe the most beautiful maiden in Babylonia. Neighbors and childhood friends, they were forbidden to marry by their parents. One night, they planned to meet and run away together, but a mountain lion attacked Thisbe. She escaped, but the mountain lion took her veil.

When Pyramus saw her bloodied veil in the mountain lion's mouth, he believed she’d been killed, and so he stabbed himself with his sword. When Thisbe saw Pyramus dead, she picked up his sword and killed herself also. What star-crossed lovers!

Prince Khurram and Mumtaz Mahal Begum

When: 1600 AD

Where: India

What’s So Special about Their Love: Prince Khurrum (who later became Shah Jahan) fell passionately in love with the beautiful, graceful Arjumand Banu Begum (who he later renamed Mumtaz Mahal) when she was only fourteen. Although he had two other wives, Mumtaz Mahal was the love of his life. They traveled everywhere together, and when she died in childbirth delivering their fourteenth child, Shah Jahan commissioned the Taj Mahal be built in her honor.

Prince Saleem and Anarkali

When: 1615 AD

Where: Lahore

What’s So Special about Their Love: Prince Saleem, son of Mughal Emperor Akbar, fell in love with the lovely slave girl Anarkali. Akbar and his wife Jodha were shamed by their son’s love for a common servant, and they forbid him to see her. Instead, Prince Saleem declared war on his father.

After a battle, Akbar defeated his son and demanded that Saleem either surrender Anarkali or be killed. Prince Saleem chose death, but Anarkali could not see her love killed – instead, she gave her up life in exchange for one night with Prince Saleem. After their one night together, Akbar had her buried alive in a brick tomb that still stands today.

What is your favorite love story?

The Teddy Turn Off

2010-02-12T04:00:00.000-05:00

Valentine's Day is just around the corner. With that in mind, I thought I'd share with you a lingerie misadventure I had in the recent past...because believe me, ladies...the last thing you want to do is look like a sack of spuds to your lover.

A couple years ago, I was doing some on-line shopping for a cute, sexy teddy. Or rather, my 'gift' to my husband on Valentine's Day...me, wrapped in silk and satin. Now, as I'm sure most of you know, I'm a full-figured kind of gal....but I finally found a sexy red silk teddy, trimmed in black, which came with a cute little transparent robe. It offered enough coverage that I assumed I'd be comfortable strutting around in it before my husband's adoring eyes. (LOL..okay, sorry, the 'adoring eyes' thing even made me snort in laughter).

I excitedly placed the order, choosing my normal size, and anxiously awaited the arrival of my package in the mail. When it finally arrived, instead of trying it on to make sure it fit, I hid it from prying eyes and promptly forgot all about it until the big day.

Our Valentine's Day that year was lovely...a nice meal, champagne, and snuggles on the couch after the kids were put to bed. After awhile, I snuck upstairs to prepare for all the sexy adventures the night held in store. (Again, snorting with laughter over here).

I took a quick bubble bath, shaved my legs, rubbed myself in lotion so I'd be soft and supple, reapplied my make-up, brushed out my hair, and sprayed my husband's favorite scent between my cleavage. Everything was ready, I just needed to step into my brand new lingerie.

As I unwrapped the silk garment from it's tissue paper, I thought to myself, "Oh no! They've sent the wrong size!" The bra cups were REALLY small, ya'll. But as I unfolded the garment and saw that it could easily wrap around an elephant, I realized the size was correct...but the bra was made REALLY tiny. Now, this was a problem. I have large breasts. Large breasts as in size DD. And after breastfeeding two children, they're droopy, large breasts.

I tried to calm down by telling myself it must be some sort of push up bra which would make me look perky and phenomenal...despite the fact there nothing there that would 'push me up' at all. As I pulled the garment over my head, my worst fears were confirmed. The bra cups where lying flat against my chest...while my boobs hung well below the bra cup seams. It was NOT a good look.

I frantically pulled a black, lacy bra on, hoping it would help. But let me tell ya, folks, there was no way in hell any bra in the world was going to mush my boobs enough to fit in those tiny teddy cups.

"Think, Bridgett. Think! How can I make this work? This garment was too expensive not to use at all...and I've already promised Doug a surprise. What can I do?"

And so...I did the only logical thing I could think to do. I sprawled diagonally across our bed, flat on my stomach, my legs bent at the knee, showing off my black stilettos, while my boobies were tucked securely beneath me. Hey, if he couldn't see my boobs at all, he couldn't see how ill-fitting the teddy was...right?

It worked like a charm, ladies. He had that teddy off me so quickly, he never even registered the fact I looked like a raging dork. And I learned a big lesson on that day, not so long ago.

Avoid ordering teddies on-line.

And if you absolutely have to?

Try the damn things on as soon as they arrive.

Happy Valentine's Day!

Sex Addiction

2010-02-11T21:25:00.012-05:00

What is sex a addiction?

Compulsive sexual thoughts and acts.

What is wrong with that?

As sex addiction progresses it can have negative effects on family members. Sometimes sex addiction only goes as far as compulsive masturbation and extensive use of pornography. For others sex addiction can lead to exhibitionism, voyeurism, child molestation, and rape. 71 percent of child molesters are sex addicts. Sex addicts usually have multiple partners which causes them to gain multiple STDs and the chain of such diseases will spread to hundreds, of thousands and millions of people. Was the AIDS virus created by an sex addict?

We have a lot of help/rehab for alcoholism and drug addiction, but what about sex addiction? Will the Tiger Woods scandal allow us to flirt with the idea of having more Sex Addiciton rehabs? Will there be a positive outcome? Will it lower rape and molestation? No one can really answer those questions, time and action can only tell.. can we make some good out of this horrible incident? Of course no good came out of this for his family and our society as a whole, but what can we do to change for the better.

Why are some people sex addicts?

This is different for every sex addict but in general there are biological, psychological, and spiritual reasons.

-The biological addict is someone who has conditioned their body to receive endorphins (brain chemicals) primarily through reinforcing a fantasy state with the ejaculation that provides these chemicals to their brain.

-Psychologically, the need to medicate or escape physical, emotional or sexual abuse can demand a substance, the early addict finds the sex medicine usually before alcohol or drugs.

-Spiritually, a person is filling up the God hole in them with their sexual addiction. The addiction is their spirituality, it comforts them, celebrates them and is always available and present. Then there is the sex addict who can be two or even three of the above reasons. This is why a specialist in sex addiction is the best route for recovery with sex addiction. -- Ever read Equus?

Researchers find that sex addiction comes from a way of coping with stress in their life. The individual can often not stop this addiction themself.

Do you know a sex addict? Most people do or at least can think of someone they have came across who was, but most cannot recall them seeking help for it.

Or maybe you are a sex addict. Would you consider going to sex rehab?

*I am no way diagnosing Tiger Woods as a sex addict. I am just speaking of it because of the recent publicity of sex addiction from him seeking help in rehab for it. In fact, This post is purely about sex addiction. I hope that there is more research and rehab facilities built for this addiction if it can prevent some horrible life changing crimes.

Superbowl 2010

2010-02-08T06:00:00.000-05:00

Did you watch the Superbowl? What are your thoughts? What was your favorite commercial? :)

Grammy Fashion Review

2010-02-04T17:00:00.009-05:00

Did you all watch the Grammys? Check out our comments on the Fashion! There was a bit of diversity last Sunday! Join in on the comments. Looks like our Big winner is Pink and Big loser is Britney Spears.

Katy Perry

Ugly & yucky! I don't really know what else to say but ask why; why is she in that and why is she there?- Cassie

I love Katy Perry, but I do not like her fashion choices. Horrible color choice for her dress and that hairstyle makes me feel icky. Not right for her at all.- Stephanie

Meh, not a fan of this look. I think it looks too bland with her fair skin and dark hair...and it kinda looks like someone forgot to cut the bottom off of an ice skating outfit. -Bernadette

I agree, I think it blends in too much with her skin, it just doesn't seem very "her" to me. - Kaileigh

Miley Cyrus

Her legs look good but that is about it. She looks very uncomfortable in those. Someone give her the kidds back... she must be from outta town. I think if the dress were a different color it would work better and the shoes don't really match. -Cassie

Miley looks great in this dress. Her legs are killer, and I actually think the shoes look perfect. I think that dress color looks great with her hair color. - Stephanie

Not a bad outfit, not a great outfit....but the color is perfect for her. I've seen some photos of that girls legs that aren't flattering, so those shoes are definitely doing something good for her. -Bernadette

I'm kinda indifferent to this one. It's fine, but not amazing. - Kaileigh

Pink

My favorite dress of the night just GORGEOUS, I wish the pic was up close so you could see the detail in this dress. It has awesome texture and very pretty rhinestone belts and work all over it. I drooled when I first saw this. Purple, greys and blacks are my favorites to match. You are rock star gorgeous Pink! I love how she can be a princess and a bad ass bitch - Cassie

All hail Queen Pink. I just love her. She manages to look classy but still add an edge. She was by far my favorite of the night. - Stephanie

I love this gown, it's gorgeous. Wish she'd ditch the platinum hair, she looks so good with color. ....gah, I love that dress! -Bernadette

This is really beautiful and elegant, I love the colors! - Kaileigh

Beyonce

I'm not a couture fan because why the hell would I ever be wearing it. About this... why tan? Pretty earrings and very well fit though. I get a Cleopatra vibe. I think she wore this because she can and its probably the most expensive of the night. -Cassie

I think the dress is a great shape for Beyonce's body, but the color wasn't the right choice. And is that a zipper?? - Stephanie

Another beautiful dress...great shape, great neckline, and I love the design. -Bernadette

I don't know... I'm not crazy about this one, but it isn't horrible. It really doesn't do much for her. - Kaileigh

Taylor Swift

I think she looks so gorgeous. This dress screams I am the full package. She owned the night and she knew it when she stepped out of the limo. You go Tay! - Cassie

I cringed when I saw Taylor. She is one of my favorites always, but she makes some odd hair and clothing choices. I do not like this color on her, and the chest area of this dress is just bizarre. Not a good fit at all. - Stephanie

I literally said "Holy Avatar Dress, Batman" when I scrolled down to this photo. Yeah, not liking this whole style choice. Her hair looks like it's pulled back too tight, and that dress needs a more womanly figure to look just right. She looks like a tomboy playing dress up. -Bernadette

This doesn't look like it fits her and flatters her very well. I do like the color on her though! - Kaileigh

Rhianna

Just don't like it. I think the turtle neck with her hair style kill it, maybe if it were different. It looked cute in the back though. -Cassie

I like this. I'm not generally a big fan of neck poofs, but it somehow works. I don't know how, but it does. Maybe it's the shoes. - Stephanie

Really?! I don't even know what to say. I hate this whole look. I can't decide which fluffed, feathered part of it I dislike the most. -Bernadette

Love the dress, but not the hair. White looks gorgeous on her, and I think it looks pretty unique - Kaileigh

Fergie

I'm torn. I likethe dress but I don't know that it would be my first choice if I was the Ferg @ the Gams. I really love the shoes. - Cassie

Beautiful color on her! I love this one. - Stephanie

I think it's a great outfit...for a club or a party. Maybe if her hair was up I'd see the glamor in it. -Bernadette

Ick. This dress looks really out of place in my opinion, too. - Kaileigh

Keri Hilson

Very pretty dress. Suits her well. She looks good. - Cassie

Gorgeous. It's a perfect shape for her, and that belt really adds the fun, Grammy's dress touch to it. - Stephanie

Wow, she has great arms! I like this dress, even if I'm not a fan of the mermaid skirt. -Bernadette

Ohhhh.... I really like this one! And I'm usually not a fan of mermaid skirts either! I think this fits very nicely, is a lovely color, and looks really polished! - Kaileigh

Lea Michele

I think this is adorable. She looks girl next door cute. - Cassie

So cute and fun. I love it! - Stephanie

Very cute and young....right down to the nail polish....love it. -Bernadette

I love this! Very girly, and yet the dark colors make it look simultaneously edgy! I think this may be my favorite - Kaileigh

Lady Gaga

Just lol. She's done worse. The only thing that I HATE is the yellow hair at the bottom. The rest is just "Gaga" and I think that is how she wants me to feel. - Cassie

What an excellent choice. The hoop of the dress really shows off her pasty white legs, and that ninja witch spike adds the perfect touch. My only complaint is her hair. The yellow really should have been purple instead to tie the look together. - Stephanie

Erase the neck up, and the bottom 3 inches of shoe...then we'll talk about this outfit! I love her outrageous style usually, and I really do think that dress could look amazing...but I can't get over the fact that I haaaaate that hair and it looks like she stomped on a field of pixies to get to the show. -Bernadette

I have to be honest you guys, I like this. I think I've grown to expect strange looks from Lady Gaga, and I have to say this certainly beats the "Kermit the Frog" outfit, and other bizarre ones. LOL, the weird hair was my favorite part, I think mostly I just find it interesting to look at. - Kaileigh

Melody Thornton

She looks so gorgeous. I LOVE the dress. Her curves are a perfect 8 shape. She also has a beautiful smile, she looks very happy and full of life. She did well! - Cassie

Beautiful choice. The hairstyle and the neckline of the dress were a perfect match. - Stephanie

Very pretty. In my opinion, she looks perfectly dressed for the occasion. A woman who seems to realize that you don't have to try that hard to be a beautiful woman. Loves it. -Bernadette

Very pretty and a great fit on the dress! - Kaileigh

Britney Spears

I wanted to write wtf then told myself "Really, your going to write that?" I should be over thinking wtf about her and assume of course she loves the "Wal-Mart clearance Halloween rack look". People need to start telling this lady NO. - Cassie

What in the mother effing hell was she thinking? That is all. - Stephanie

Yeah...not surprised. What *would* surprise me would be her showing up anywhere dressed in something somewhat appropriate for the occasion. This poor girl needs better friends. -Bernadette

This is just...odd. And not in a good way. - Kaileigh

Carrie Underwood

Just not that flattering girl, love ya but no. She should have worn her performance golden dress when she collaborated "The Earth Song" for the MJ tribute. She looked VERY stunning and sang her soul out. -Cassie

I do not like this one. It looks like something is missing. Nice try, though. - Stephanie

I like this look, though I'm getting a little tired of the sweet, innocent, angelic look she's got going on. I feel like a bright light is going to burst around her and she's going to break into a choir song at any moment. I think she's a gorgeous girl who doesn't need to wear a fitted dress to look sexy. Love her accessories, too. -Bernadette

I think I would probably like this one if it had a better, tighter fit. Maybe if the waist was emphasized a bit more? - Kaileigh

MJ's cuties of the night

They are so adorable and seem to be great kids. The son has some strong words live up too. I hope they do use their dads earnings for charity and live a pure life (as much as possible in the limelight)- Cassie

They both act and look wise beyond their years and I hope the best for them. Paris is SO beautiful. With those glasses and that adorable haircut, she looked amazing. - Stephanie

Gorgeous kids...and what can you say about the outfits?! That look will forever be iconic. -Bernadette

Well, I didn't watch much of the show, so I didn't hear them speak, but they look very mature and elegant in this photo. You can never go wrong with basics! - Kaileigh

Parental Control, Or Controlling Parent?

2010-02-01T06:00:00.000-05:00

Parental Controls. We all know what they are, and we all know what they're for. And as technology advances, there are more options available for parents to use. From knowing what sites our kids surf on the net, to even knowing their exact location, if enabled, by your cell phone.

Has parental control gone too far, or in this day and age is it more important to have it then it ever has been before? If you are a parent of an older child, do you use parental control? To what extent? Do you parents of younger children plan on using it? Is there ever a point that it has gone too far, stifled creativity, or broken privacy?

What are your thoughts on parental control?

Extreme Wedding Purposal

2010-01-28T10:00:00.003-05:00

www.oddee.com

I am not married however, I LOVE hearing proposal stories! This week its my job to write about one crazy story. I love all kinds though from simple to extreme.....share yours!

Asking at Near Zero Gravity :

To celebrate Austria's birthday lucky passengers got to board a Boeing 727 that creates the experience of microgravity, during five minute plunges as it flies up and down between 24,000 and 35,000 feet.

27 year old Manhattan architect got to celebrate more than the birthday. She received a proposal from her boyfriend while floating in an airplane cabin.

Luckly the ring didn't float away! A love so strong unbound by gravity its self! The couple plan on spending their 10 year anniversary in orbit.

Abortion at the Super Bowl?

2010-01-28T08:36:00.002-05:00

In 1987, a pregnant mother on a missionary trip to the Philippines, became ill with amoebic dysentery. The medicine she was required to take in order to become well again put her unborn fetus at risk. Doctors urged her to abort the baby. She refused. On August 14, 1987, she gave birth to her fifth child...a little boy she named Timothy Richard, a.k.a. Tim.

Or, for those of you familiar with college football, Tim Tebow.

This story is the basis of an upcoming pro-life commercial scheduled to air during the Super Bowl, and paid for (with a pretty penny, I might add), by a conservative Christian group, Focus on the Family.

Now, before this goes any further, I want to say right now, this writing is NOT an argument for or against abortion, as I don't plan on even mentioning my opinion about that particular topic. Nor is it a slam at conservatives or Christians. This is simply me writing to convey my severe distaste for a moral/ethical/religious commercial scheduled to air during the Super Bowl. I'd be writing this very same article if the commercial was pro-choice or even covered other ethical topics. The Super Bowl is a television event notorious for it's rowdy, hilarious commercials which inevitably manage to bridge the gap between the cultures, resulting in one great collective chuckle.

As far as I'm concerned, what this ad represents has absolutely no place at an entertainment venue and threatens to be quite divisive. What's particularly concerning to me, why air a commercial primarily aimed at women during what's considered a "man's" sporting event? Do we truly feel a sporting event where guys are bashing each other to pulp is the most politically correct place to talk about abortion issues?

My answer to that question is a resounding NO.

Fellow blogger, LJ, feels the same and had this to say on her blog, A Racing Mind:

Entertainment venues have no business jumping into any
serious political stances. Ever. EVER! This would be akin to playing a Pro-Life
or Pro-Choice ad during the previews before a movie starts at the theater. Or
during the commercial breaks of the Olympics. Or to see an anti-abortion
billboard sign on the side of a NASCAR vehicle at the track. Hell, why should we
stop at the Super Bowl, folks? Let's just put those ads, no matter which side of
the fence, in the previews at the beginning of your child's DVDs. Disney? How
about an abortion debate ad leading up to your seeing Mickey? Anything sound
wrong with any of that?

CBS, the network holding the rights to the Super Bowl this year, recently turned down a commercial made by the United Church of Christ because it depicted acceptance of homosexuality. Yet now, because they've "changed their mandates," they're running pro-life ads? Make sense? I didn't think so either.

Money talks, folks. In this ebbing economy, the networks are feeling the pinch. Focus on the Family, the religious group behind this controversial commercial, saw an opportunity and took full advantage. Yet, as far as I'm concerned, CBS and the NFL should be ashamed of themselves. At the very least, if they're steadfast about airing this ad, they should also offer Planned Parenthood the opportunity to air a pro-choice commercial. It's only fair, after all.

So tell me, dear readers, what are your thoughts about this controverisal topic? I don't think there is any need to remind you to be respectful of other's opinions. We're all adults here. :)

Snake on a Dorm

2010-01-27T22:48:00.002-05:00

I can't even begin to understand how the students in this college dorm building, located in Poland, managed to do this. It is truly amazing!

Heidi Montag-Pratt: Beautiful, or Plastic?

2010-01-25T06:00:00.001-05:00

If you follow pop culture, you've probably seen all of the recent articles about Heidi Pratt from The Hills undergoing 10 plastic surgery procedures in one day.

In the interview below, Heidi states that she had an eyebrow lift, her ears pinned back, her jaw sawed down and reshaped, her nose corrected, fat injections in the cheeks and lips (taken from her legs), botox in her forehead, DDD breasts (she wanted H), back shaping, fat injection into buttocks, and inner and outer liposuction.

Here is a video and a before and after picture. Whether you love or hate The Hills, I thought Heidi was a really pretty girl, and I didn't notice the major things she was pointing out (like a bigger chin) until she said them herself.

What are your thoughts on this?

Video courtesy of You Tube

Photo courtesy of Huffington Post- view the full article here.

Winter (Skin) Woes...

2010-01-23T22:28:00.006-05:00

I don't know about you guys, but winter wages complete havoc on my skin.

The cold, dry weather outside, and the moisture-less air inside from central heating add to my already naturally dry skin. This week, I have officially reached my limit on how much dryness I can stand, ESPECIALLY on my face!

It seems like this year is even worse than before, and has me wondering...

What do you do to battle winter skin issues? What better way to get some advice on how to hydrate and repair my skin than from a community of other women? Please be so kind to post your tips and tricks for keeping your skin fabulous during the winter! I can't be the only one with this annoying issue!

I have one tried-and-true trick of my own for battling chapped winter lips that I will start with!

Before bed...
Exfoliate your lips with a soft toothbrush (purchased new and soft, or a retired well-worn brush)
Apply your favorite lip balm or chap-stick liberally over your lips (My favorite is Burt's Bees Honey lip balm!)
Sleep with this slathered on your lips, and awaken with smooth moisturized lips!

Please share your tips in the comments section!!!

Hairy Stars

2010-01-22T04:00:00.001-05:00

I'm the first to admit I truly enjoyed the Twilight series of books by Stephenie Meyer. I read them years ago before they became enormously overexposed. Would they hold such a special place in my heart if I read them today? Perhaps. Perhaps not. However, I am TOTALLY sick of all the Twilight/New Moon toys, games, jewelry, decorations, and clothes saturating our stores and lives.

So when I saw the following on Amazon today, I at first thought it had to be a joke. Seriously? Who would buy this stuff...and for $40 each, no less! Check it out...

First up, Jacob Black.

We all know he's complete and utter eye candy, with abs which make me want to lick pink champagne off them. So if this wig actually makes a guy look like Jacob, I say spend that $40! On the other hand, if it makes you look like this guy:

Steer clear!!!

**********

Next up is Alice Cullen, the sweet, pixie-like beauty whose character sees/predicts the future. She has an adorable little razored, flip 'do. But trust me, it looks NOTHING like this:

Yes...this dynamic hair piece is available for purchase on Amazon right this minute, you lucky buyers, you. Maybe if you're really industrious, you can even find the white face paint this model used too!

**********

Then there's Bella Swan, the awkward, bumbling, but ultimately attractive human who steals Edward's heart. Frankly, in the Twilight movie, I thought her hair looked a stringy mess. New Moon brought a new and improved head of hair, probably because she was wearing a wig too.

However, in NEITHER of the movies did her hair look like this hot mess....

...but your hair can! And for the bargain price of only $39.95!

**********

And finally, I saved the best for last.

Edward. Oh Edward. How I love your tousled auburn locks, pale skin, and golden eyes.

So tell me...why is your 'hair' on a woman's head?

Or, even worse....on HIS head?

Seriously...W.T.F?

Does that look like a studly vamp to you?

Yea, me either.

And here's the weirdest thing of all....many of these atrocious wigs were being rated five stars by Amazon buyers. Ummmm. Yea.

Sometimes, there simply aren't words....

Just a little tribute to our Men and Women

2010-01-21T09:58:00.003-05:00

Say a prayer for Peace..For every fallen daughter and son..Set our spirits free, let us lay down our guns.. Sweet Mother Mary We're so tired.. But we can't come home till the last shots fired.

SPOTTED!

2010-01-20T22:44:00.002-05:00

A Tiger Shark spotted off South Florida beaches...

Swimmers....

Beware.

Do Your Cosmetics Taste Good?

2010-01-18T06:00:00.000-05:00

"Cosmetics are not subject to FDA approval before hitting the shelves (minus those products that contain color additives), and the administration is also not authorized to recall hazardous cosmetics from the markets."

Seriously?

According to Glamour Magazine's June "Beauty Quickie Tip," "women inadvertently (but harmlessly) eat 4 lbs of lipstick" in a lifetime. But the latest science shows that no level of lead is "harmless."

FOUR POUNDS???

Ok I know this won't apply to me, because I rarely wear lipstick, but still. Four pounds?! Does it go straight to our hips and thighs like everything else that we eat?

Awhile back, I did a post on harmful ingredients in our cosmetics. I am hoping soon to compile a decent sized list of ones that are not, but with such flaky regulations in place by the FDA, "safe" things are hard to come by. Especially when most unsafe things are cleverly marketed, so that we don't realize exactly what we're using.

Check out this video and see what you think! (View the youtube here)

Do you wear lipstick? Lick your lips often? Do you have a craving now for some red Max Factor? ;)

Ew.

Rerun: Recipe Challenge: Christina Ferrare's Roasted Chicken

2010-01-16T06:00:00.001-05:00

UPDATE: Since originally posting this, my mom also tried this recipe on a turkey, and it was just as fabulous! An absolute family favorite!!

So apparently this is a pretty popular recipe, since everyone I've mentioned it to has pretty much already heard of it. I also found the link to the recipe on Oprah's website, so I'm guessing that may be the culprit ;)

I actually got the recipe originally from my mother. She had prepared a chicken to go into the oven, and something came up, so she brought it over to my house to finish up and cook. The first time it came out absolutely delicious, so I just had to try and replicate it on my own!

Here are some pictures before and after from my attempt to make this chicken. I think it looks a little brown in the after pictures, but it really did taste fantastic!

This specific recipe is for two chickens, because the intention is to have leftover chicken for other recipes. I only used one chicken and simply cut whatever was meant for 2 chickens in half :)

Here is the Recipe: (As noted above, a copy online can be found on Oprah's Website)

Ingredients:

Roasted Chicken:

2 chickens , 4 1/2 to 5 pounds each
6 lemons
A poultry mix of fresh herbs: Rosemary, sage, thyme, parsley and oregano work well

Marinade for one chicken:

1 cup Dijon mustard
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/2 cup juice from fresh lemon (don't discard lemon rinds)

To make marinade: Place all ingredients in a nonreactive bowl. Whisk with a wire whisk until ingredients are incorporated well—the marinade should have a smooth and creamy consistency.

To make roasted chicken: Preheat oven to 425°.

Clean chickens well and pat dry. Place each chicken in its own baking dish.

Stuff cavities with lemon rinds and fresh herbs. A poultry mix is fine, usually consisting of rosemary, sage, thyme, parsley and oregano.

Pour marinade over chicken. Add cracked pepper and remaining herbs to the top of each chicken.

Place an oven thermometer in each chicken and cover with aluminum foil. Place on the lower rack of the oven. Bake for 1 1/2 hours, then remove the aluminum foil. Baste with a basting bulb. Keep basting often, ever 15 minutes until the thermometer reads 180°.

Leftover Lemon Rinds (from making lemon juice for recipe) stuffed with herbs (these are stuffed inside the chicken)

Yes... a bit too brown the second time around, but like I said, it tasted perfect.

And there you have it! A delicious Roasted Chicken! And even a newbie to cooking like myself can pull it off!

REPOST: One Ex-Nurse's Misadventures

2010-01-15T05:00:00.001-05:00

Originally posted April 7, 2009.

**********

I graduated from nursing school in 1998. It was an exciting time in my life. I was single, carefree, and frequented a club called Liquid nearly every Saturday night (when I wasn't wiping butts and giving bed baths, that is).

Nursing school, however, was a bitch. If I never see another nursing care plan, it will be too soon.

Picture this:

The year is 1996. A young nursing student in her all-white uniform (complete with goofy squarish hat), strides proudly down the halls of a local nursing home. It's her first day of clinical rotations and she's so excited and nervous! Lives are quite literally being placed in her hands. She's responsible for two patients that day and she knows she's going to be a fabulous caretaker. She's made her to-do lists, checked them twice, and she's raring to go.

She arrives at the closed door of her first patient...a 90 year old elderly gentlemen who happens to be very hard of hearing. She introduces herself.

::he doesn't hear her::

She introduces herself again.

::once again, he's completely unaware she's in the room::

She gets right up to his ear and yells at the top of her voice, "Hi! I'm *%&$. I'll be your nurse today."

"I have to poop."

[Well, nice to meet you too, she thinks to herself.]

She very carefully assists her patient to the bedside commode. Afterwards, she checks his vital signs, weighs him, completes an overall health assessment, and gives her patient his daily bed bath.

[Just look at me go! This isn't so hard. I am nursing student, hear me roar!]

She calmly and confidently strides to the door of patient number two after assuring her nursing professor she's got her shit under control (using much different language, of course.) She knows from scouring the charts her patient is a 52 year old female--alert, awake, and oriented with absolutely no deficits in her hearing. Pushing open the door with a smile on her face she singsongs, "Hello, I'm *#&%. I'll be your nurse for the next few hours!"

She stops short.

["How did I miss this information?", she thinks frantically, her eyes wide with disbelief.]

Somehow, some way, she has missed the very pertinent fact that her patient weighs in excess of 500 pounds.

[I am sooo not the shit. I am sooo not the shit. How can I do this by myself?]

"Mrs. X needs an enema, you know. She's been constipated for days and the doctor has ordered a Fleets enema. It's your lucky day," states her nursing instructor matter-of-factly, walking through the door.

[And I'm supposed to find her asshole HOW? the student nurse mutters under her breath.]

"I'm going to invite all the other nursing students to watch and to assist with turning. This will be our first official enema in clinical rotations!"

Her nursing instructor smiles and walks out of the room.

[Yikes. Pressure's on! I've got to make this woman poo...like now!]

She proceeds to try and do a health assessment on her patient while carrying on polite chatter. Unfortunately, she can't find her patient's heartbeat and the lung sounds are non-existent.

[This nursing thing is so hard! How does anybody get through it? I need a drink. I am nursing student...hear me sob!]

Just as she's about to throw her stethoscope across the room in frustration, in walks her nursing instructor carrying a long, rectangular box...the word FLEETS printed on the side in all capital letters. Following closely behind is a group decked out in white scrubs, anticipatory smiles on their faces.

"You're so lucky!"

"I wish I was the first to perform a procedure."

"Enema's are so hella cool. You're going to rock this!"

She puts on latex gloves as eight nursing students help roll patient number two to her side. "Ouch," the patient yells, "you're hurting me!"

[Just wait until I'm done with you!]

After much pushing and prodding of the 'cheeks,' she finally finds her point of entrance.

"Be sure to angle it correctly. You don't want to perforate her rectum," her professor tones.

[Lovely.]

She slowly slides the applicator into her patient's anus. It slides smoothly and with no restraint. Upon getting it perfectly in place, she gently pushes the fluid into her patient's butt hole.

[Hey! This isn't so bad! It doesn't even stink!]

PPPPPPPPLLLLLLLLLLLLLFFFFFFTTTTTT!

She feels something warm slide down her arms and notices something brown on her shirt.
And her pants.
And her shoes.

[What the....?]

She looks around the faces of her fellow students. Jaws are hanging open.
But their uniforms are still crisp & white.
Their arms are still clean.
They have yet to be christened with shit.
Shit from a 500 pound woman, no less.

Like I was.

On my very first day of nursing clinicals.

At a nursing home.

Probably makes you wonder why I'd continue on, huh?
Well, let me just say...I'm a glutton for punishment.
And I feel I had a successful first day.
I got her to poop, didn't I?

Will Green Olives and Pickle Juice...PLEASE STAND UP ?

2010-01-14T12:00:00.003-05:00

This Thursday marks one week for our 100th reader give away.

Unfortunately, our winner did not comment to claim her prize. Please read the rules new winner HERE

Todays number is 36.

Which is Kelly Dawn! I have been reading Kelly FOREVER she is awesome :)

Mrs. Green Olives and Pickle Juice, please claim your prize!

Pray for Haiti, HELP

2010-01-14T10:08:00.007-05:00

Praying for Haiti , over 100,000+ dead. How can we help? Text "Haiti" to 90999 to donate $10 to the Red Cross, charged to your cell bill. One of many Articles verify this here : http://money.cnn.com/2010/01/13/technology/twitter_haiti_donations/index.htm and @Redcross on twitter.

Spread the word by mouth, Facebook, blog and Twitter! I did this and received a confirmation verification pretty quickly.

This is a very sad tragedy that has struck upon a very poor Nation. I read on CNN bodies are lined up on streets. May God and strength be with them.

Return Week : How much is too much?

2010-01-14T10:00:00.002-05:00

OK ladies, we've ALL been there. When that creepy guy is staring a little over kill, flirting, touchy, getting fresh and then the uncomfortableness.
So how much is too much flirting, and the proper response? I've taken mental notes of all the instances I can remember of these type of "run ends" that have happened with my friends and I. Anywhere from bars to the super market at 7 a.m.

Some of them act polite, some just roll eyes and try to remove one self, others will laugh and play along, and lastly there was one that kicked him in his nuts.
I think I was the smile & roll eyes/remove type. However, with age I have been able to handle these situations A LOT better. I actually remember saying recently "Thanks but no thanks." Or "I appreciate it but I do not feel comfortable."

I grew up without a true father figure so at times I felt either REALLY superior to men or very inferior. It can be very uncomfortable when someone is invading your space and you are a young shy girl. I think as women we have the natural instinct to "feel" a man moving in on us like a hawk, especially when it is unwanted.
What reasonable advice do you give these girls? Hell what advice do you give the girls that play along and don't care? They probably care unconsciously. I know it depends on the situations and all but just be general, play along and be honest. I know we all aren't over or under confident.

I have a friend who played along and let a guy cross the line. Her excuse was " Oh, I'm used to it." To me that is very sad and I felt violated for her.
If you have this situation on a daily basis please know you have options! Speak up, you are a important person and you deserve better!!

I'm just talking mainly about first run in instances, but list any you feel. That is just horrible to know this happens to people day in and day out and they feel "used to it."

Rerun Week: Organic Beauty

2010-01-13T10:45:00.000-05:00

Before spas and expensive products, women had to create their own treatments to stay beautiful. Not only do they still work today, but they are truly all-natural and organic.

Pamper yourself with a few of my favorites:

Smash a banana up, and mix it with an egg white. Add a bit of plain yogurt to make it the right consistency, and put it on your face for 10-15 minutes for a potassium-filled mask that will restore your skin's moisture balance.

Combine smashed strawerries, sea salt, and olive oil to make a great exfoliator to use in the shower.

Have oily skin? Make a mask with an egg white, 1/2 cup of cooked plain oatmeal, a teaspoon of olive oil, and a few drops of lemon juice. Leave it on for 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.

Add 1/2 cup rolled oats, 1/4 cup powdered milk, and 2 tablespoons of honey to your bath water, and relax. It will soothe and soften your skin.

To help remove blotches and tighten skin, mix together one beaten egg white and the juice from half of a lemon. Leave it on overnight, or for just 15 minutes for a quick treatment.

A great treatment for removing product build-up from your hair: After conditioning, rinse with 1/4 cup vinegar and 1 cup water.

Avocados are a perfect moisturizer. Remove the skin and smash one up into a creamy texture. Massage it into your face and neck, and leave it on for 15 minutes.

Do you have any all-natural beauty treatments you want to share? Did you try any of these treatments? Share with us in the comments section!

Simply Femme Repeat: Women and Self Esteem

2010-01-11T06:00:00.002-05:00

***In honor of reaching 100 followers, the authors of Simply Femme will each be choosing a favorite post that they have made, to share again with you. Think of it as Simply Femme repeats for the week ;) we appreciate each and every one of you for taking interest in what we have to say. Enjoy!***

My favorite post on Simply Femme, Women and Self Esteem:

These days, is it any wonder that a good percentage of women have low self esteem? Every magazine is graced with a stick thin model. Some major department stores don't even carry designer brands in sizes larger than 10. The models in fashion catalogues look like they could float away at a slight gust of wind.

But who decides that these women are the norm? Sure, we'd all like to drop a few (or more) pounds, but don't you like to eat a burger or a big juicy piece of chicken now and then? Why has society led us to believe that if you're not thin, you're not beautiful?

I have to admit, that the face is the first thing I notice on a woman. I don't notice if she is heavy or thin, I notice her face. After all, it says a lot about her. The wrinkles by her eyes, from many sleepless nights worrying about her children and family. Maybe she was up all night rocking a crying newborn, and her eyes are red from crying silently with him/her. The lines around her mouth, from many years of laughter. The sparkle in her eyes, that shows love and life. Wisdom. These are the things that make a woman beautiful to me. A positive attitude and a kind word, are more important than a pair of size 2 jeans.

Don't get me wrong. Before I had kids, I was a size 4, and I desperately miss those days of being able to pull something off the rack and know that it would look great on me. I've never, until now, actually heard a sales lady say "That's the biggest size we sell it in". It's been a long, hard journey to love the body that I have now, and I'm still nowhere near satisfied with it.

But I know that deep down, I am still beautiful, and most importantly- no matter what happens to my body, it won't change my soul;
it won't change who I am.

Only I can control that, and each day I aspire to be a good person. Those are things that I think make a woman beautiful. What kind of person you are, after all, is what counts the most.

So when I saw this picture below, I knew I HAD to share it with you. This is an article from Glamour.com about loving who you are, being comfortable in your own skin. At first glance, I didn't understand what the big deal was. What was the big fuss about this beautiful girl, why is everyone so happy about this article? Until I saw it. Her slight stretch marks, her bigger thighs, her slightly sagging stomach, and then I realized that she was real. She really looks like that, and is quite proud of it. Why shouldn't she be? She's gorgeous! I really applaud Glamour for putting such a normal, beautiful woman in their magazine.

See, we as women do not have to look like a Victoria's Secret model to be beautiful. Our life and our accomplishments are what make us beautiful. If you have stretch marks from pregnancy, embrace them for what they are- scars from the joy of a child that you created, that you birthed. Do you have cellulite? Look around, the majority of other women do too. The sacrifices that we as women make to raise our kids, or be a wife or girlfriend or partner, or work full time, are the things that have made us who we are. And a few wrinkles and saggy skin along the way is just a way to remember our accomplishments and how far we've come.

We here at Simply Femme give 10 million stars to Glamour for featuring a real woman on the page. Am I saying that if you're naturally skinny, you aren't a real woman? Absolutely not. But it's rare that you see a woman like this in a magazine. It's nice to know that beauty is seen in someone who looks beautiful just as she is. Even people like Kelly Clarkson, who has embraced a fuller figure, are victims of airbrushing to make a cover look better (click on the link, the differences are quite obvious in her pictures!). Isn't it a sad day when a woman embraces her own body, and yet mainstream media still airbrush her, for fear of how it comes across to the viewers? When you learn to love yourself, and people still knock you down, is it any wonder women are turning to plastic surgery more and more? Anything in moderation is good, but someone with low self esteem may turn to multiple surgeries and eventually look nothing like when they started. Sometimes, it's a bad thing.

Low self esteem can lead to something known as Body Dysmorphic Disorder- an actual recognized, mental condition, in which a woman sees fat (or ugly, or other bad things) no matter what she is told, or what the scale says. This can lead to anorexia, bulimia, and a number of many other problems. BDD can be very serious if it spirals out of control, due to the impulsive behavior that it may cause.

Does it hurt, to look in the mirror everyday and tell yourself that you're beautiful? Didn't think so ;)

Embrace who you are. If you are bigger, it doesn't make you ugly. The best thing you can do for your body is to eat a healthy diet, and get regular exercise. But if you do that and you're still bigger than your friends, it doesn't make you any less of a person. If we all looked alike, what kind of planet would this be? We are all different, but we are all still beautiful (to quote one of my favorite movies, Bridget Jones' Diary)....just the way we are. :)

Would you like to share with us, what makes you love your body? What parts would you change? How do you feel about your level of self- esteem? Do skinny models on magazine covers make you more likely to buy the products, or are you just as happy with the pictures above, and models like the Dove Campaign for beauty? What makes a woman beautiful, to you?

Product Review: Amazing Concealer

2010-01-09T05:00:00.003-05:00

Well, I realize that I frequently do reviews on Simply Femme, and I think I lean towards doing reviews because I'm personally such a product and review junkie... and also because my creativity is currently at an all time low.

For my birthday, I recently received a gift card for Sephora (YAY!). I went out and decided to use part of the gift card to purchase this concealer:

Amazing Concealer by Amazing Cosmetics!

I looked specifically for this concealer, because I usually see YouTube Makeup Guru Michelle Phan using this concealer. When I tried it out at the store, I could see why she recommended it!

It's a little bit pricey, but a little goes a LONG way. A teeny tiny dab of this can cover just about anything without looking gloppy and caked-on (which I experienced with my other runner-up: Benefit's Erase Paste). Also, I was told that the tiny bottle would last me from six months to a year, and based on how little I need to use... I am pretty convinced that it will last me that long.

Long story short, if you're looking for a great concealer that looks light, yet covers up just about anything, this is definitely one of your best bets.

Also, for all the pale gals out there like myself, the light is actually light enough, unlike so many others I've tried. Also unlike other concealers it comes in many shades for you to find just the right one!

If anyone tries this, let me know what you think!