Issue 10 by Full Blossom Magazine

Model: Myka Drake Photography : Patrick Webster

I am a Full Blossom Beauty

Model: Alex Larosa Photography: MomentsByMello.com

And So Are You! Model: Alex Larosa Photography: MomentsByMello.com

A Note from the Editor Be Still and Know that I AM GOD….

Psalms 46:10

I’m not sure who this is for but I felt that someone needed to read this verse. That someone may be you. I encourage you, no matter what problem or stress you may be going through… Give your problems to the “Man Upstairs.” Let HIM help you “Cheat the Heat” that life and this Summer may bring to you! MomentsByMello

Model: Malinda Bell "YUMYUM" Photography: Kaan Photos

JULY 2013 ISSUE 10

Photography. Graphic Art. Design. Production Evron “Mello” AndrewsCo-Founder/ Editor-In- Chief Writers Maira Plus Size Angel Spangler Catherine Schuller Tasha Andrews Lakeisha Smith Charity Lynette LaTanya Ward Showers

Cover Photo CoverModels: Andrea Jackson, Nicole Flore, Michele Hilton Tasha Andrews- MUA for Andrea Jackson Barbie Armstrong- MUA/Hair/ Styling-for Nicole Flores Photography: MomentsByMello.com

Contents 18. Introducing Maira Plus Size 21. Maira Help Me Cheat the Heat 24. Here Comes The Bride 29. Culture Corner 36. The Top 3 Summer Detoxes 39. Money Matters 40. FBM Spotlight 46. 5 Ways to Survive A Heatwave 52. Cheat the Heat 55. Epitome Of Sexy 63. Summer Swimwear 72. Workout Tips for Curvy Chicks 76. 4 Great Vacation Spots 78. Maintaining Wellness With A Busy Life 80. Naturally You 84. Entertainment

PNB photography Makeup/Hair/Styling Chrisandra Wells Swimsuit- Forever 21+

“Hey I’m Nicole Flores! I’ll be your Guide For Issue 10 And Remember, You Are A Full Blossom Beauty!” Model: Nicole Flores Hair, Makeup, Styling:Barbie Armstrong Photography: MomentsByMello.com

FBM

• • • •

P a c k a g e s f o r a l l B u d ge t s • 2 Hour Photoshoot • Unlimited Outfit Changes 10 High Resolution Images • 5 Re-Touched Images

as low as $100 Make-up, Hair, and Styling Not Provided with All Packages PayPal Accepted

S C H E D U L E Y O U R P H O T O S H O O T T O DAY @ FBMMODELS@FULLBLOSSOMMAGAZINE.COM

Introducing FULL BLOSSOM’S NEW FASHION COLUMNIST

Maira Plus Size Hi dear friends, a little intro, my name it’s Maira, but you would say Myra, I’m from Brazil, living in USA for 14 years, used to live in New Jersey by Edgewater/GW Bridge, moved 6 years ago to upstate NY, married with one child, a wonderful teenager girl, very proud momma. I’m 45 years old, 5’ 3” (shawty), 228 lbs, blonde hair and green eyes, but my “mark” is my smile and kindness of my eyes they say. I am very sincere and funny, have a energy of a battery bunny on me, but I will try not to hurt anyone feelings in the process. I love to take care of my little family, go to church, paint canvases, do some embroidery and sewing. I love to decorate my house, watch movies, cook brazilian and Italian food, go out to dance with friends and the hubbie, but I really love to be alone and work in my corner. I also recycle everything and anything possible, and can not forget to volunteer in my community. Fashion was always my passion, but the Plus Size Industry still has lots and lots of years to grow, and we need to fight for it. All my friends and I have the common knowledge about how it’s difficult to find well fitted, young, hippy and modern clothes for us, I know it’s out there, but the prices can be a little too much. I’m well known for being the QUEEN OF BARGAINS; if it’s full price, sorry, I’m not buying it. I work as a fashion consultant and a columnist for sites and E-zines also. As a Christian woman, I try to teach my followers and clients to first of all, love and accept themselves, stop looking at their “flaws” on the mirror, and do NOT accept less than you deserve it. The beauty of a woman is when she finally discovers herself and shows the world who she is, independent being plus size or not. Then, they should dress for the life they want for themselves. A smile goes miles and miles in life.

We all have totally different body types, more tall, more belly or less belly, so when she go shopping, we should look at the mannequin (a far away cry from a real plus size women), and not even worry about it. Because sister, you are not an animate object! Buy basic pieces like trousers, bottom down shirts, knee length skirts and shorts, boots, sandals and jewelry in neutral colors (black/white/dark jeans/navy blue/brown/gray/metallic) and think about the value of your money. I love my money, and I will try to buy clothing or accessories that can go years and years in my closet, the quality of the fabric is important too, some cotton tee shirts are like garbage nowadays.

Buy few accessories here and there, they don't need to be expensive at all. Look out for promotions and clearance, to follow the trends, otherwise, the basic and classics wins every time. I will mix and match them with whatever I have to make a respectful look and usually people never guess my real age, love the younger and fresh look for day time and work, and to go out I love to use bold colors. Hope you will enjoy my fashion column, letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s be bffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and share experiences and learn together. Never, ever, ever forget to love and respect yourself, be confident; those trades are the most beautiful fashion trend a woman can have. Big hugs, Maira Plus Size Instagram/Polyvore/Twitter: mairaplussize Facebook: www.facebook.com/maira.plussize Fanpage on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Maira-Plus-Sizemairamulheraoblogspotcom/215465398548014?ref=ts&fref=ts PLEASE USE MY BLACK AND WHITE PHOTO FROM MY PROFILE ON FACEBOOK. TKS MAIRA.

Finally summer is here and for us on the East Coast, it’s a celebration because my last memory of snow was just a few days ago. Let’s enjoy the best of summer, but the Heat can be a little too much, so let’s see the best for the beautiful full blossom women. A great resource in clothing in cotton or jersey, light and easy to use. I prefer dresses and Bermudas with tanks or blouses. I am not a big fan of shorts; usually we (PLUS SIZE WOMEN) have bigger thighs and the infamous cellulite, and good sense says to be more elegant day or night. I give preference to the Bermudas in fabrics like trousers, or even get some old trousers and cut below the knee and tailor for the middle of the knee. Sandals and flats for day time, high heels sandals for night time, be bold on the jewelry. It’s a great time to show your personality with colors. With the dresses I always look for the wrap around style, knee length, V neck, shorts or ¾ sleeves. The models will be different, but the most importantly is the fit on your body, and the enface on the empire waist (below the bust on the ribcage), to show the smallest part of your body. The flow on the dress can be very helpful too; too tight can be sometimes “vulgar”. Try 20 or more; discover which one flatters you the best. And enjoy the summer with confidence, a smile and show the world, that we can be funny, flirt and fabulous, independent of size. A personnel preference of mine, it’s the baby oil or Vaseline spray for the body, it will make your skin shine and be pure glamour, and will keep the bugs away. I love the spray with shine glitter for night time too, after using one of the oils. At night or inside can be a little cold, usually because of the air conditioner, have a little jeans jacket or a bolero. Use neutral color in this case to be easier to use with all the colors of your clothing. When using jeans, the dark wash and white are my 1st options, because it’s easier to go with anything and everything in your closet. Do not forget to wear your spank, it doesn’t not need to be a entire piece, bust to tights, can be the little shorts only, they will cover your belly and tights, and hold your body showing your beautiful curves. And believe me, it’s not that bad for the heat, because you will get overly sweaty. When shopping also think about how useful those pieces will be in the other seasons of the year. You can use the same clothes with tights, boots, a jacket and up the accessories for night time. Let your money go to work for you all year long. Hope you will have fun in the sun and “Cheat on the Heat”!!! Xoxo, Maira Plus Size www.facebook.com/maira.plussize https://www.facebook.com/pages/Maira-Plus-Sizemairamulheraoblogspotcom/215465398548014?ref=ts&fref=ts

Rapunzel

Here Come the Brides (….and in one of every size!) By Catherine Schuller, AICI, CIP

One of my new roles is as Fashion Coordinator of the Yotel Hotel NYC’s Sunday Brunch. After Plus’ Night Out success last year, I met the host of the Sunday Brunch, Errickson Wilcox, during our prep time at the restaurant and lounge area. Errickson asked me after PNO to coordinate a fashion aspect of his brunch to coincide with Mercedes Benz Fashion Week. Since I am an instructor at Fashion Institute of Technology in NYC, I have access to new designers every day. I invited four designers and thirty models to showcase their finery on the terrace of the Yotel on September 9th last year. Talk about the right fit! From that moment on I knew that I had found a home for my fashion show productions to be showcased. After my years of MODE on the Road (the Vogue-executed plus magazine which reigned from 1997 till its closing in 2001), subsequent production of the high end CurveStyle: Reshaping Fashion runway event at the Puck Building which led to my being media spokesperson for Charming Shoppes’ Catherine’s Plus Size division and working with Figure Magazine. I staged the fashion shows during the local markets around the United States and using their TV morning shows as a platform to promote Catherine’s.

The Yotel is a perfect place for me to flex my runway muscle and it has been a wonderful experience. I stage themed runway events on a regular basis and June 9th was my Bridal Brunch show. Since the brunch caters to everyone from “toddlers to trannies”, the addition of a “diverse” aspect was an easy segue. I told Errickson that Innovative Integration is what it’s all about and is the flavor I add to the brunch entertainment festivities. It’s a lively brunch to say the least, and my fashion shows are so well received. June is bride month and I had everyone from brides to bridesmaids to mother of the brides to grooms and father of the brides represented. Every size, age, shape and ethnicity was represented and the crowd ate it up!

I featured designers that catered to every size obviously…Sydney’s Closet for the curvy gal, because they truly “Size up Glamour”, Cassandra Bromfield Bridal because she does custom work with an edge-y creative and sophisticated feel, and Gabrielle Carlson who has an ethereal romantic quality to her designs. Headresses were provided by Shelli Hobson Greene and Beauloni….We had every bride covered. Brides are choosing all kinds of styles these days, and there was something for everyone. The sponsors were DermaMD, who donated a $350 gift basket to a lucky winner, Spirit Cruises who donated a dinner for two on the boat around Manhattan, and PartyFlops who do custom flip flops with any artwork you want customized onto the insole…It was a great party souvenir and the Bridal Brunch was a fun and festive time for all!

Full Blossom Magazine was there capturing all the backstage action and interviews with the models and designers. Makeup was provided by Beauty by Judy and Brian DeCook did the hair on 25 models in record time. The models were all gorgeous and with one of every size, the diversity theme was celebrated down the aisle in style!! Behind It Magazine’s creative director, Alejandro Di Esko was there capturing the entire afternoon behind the scenes and on the runway. We will be doing an integrated swimwear event at the Yotel in July 21st to coincide with Miami Swim Week. Please come on down and have a brunch to remember with free flowing plates and champagne on the most beautiful terrace and restaurant. Hope to see you there!!! Catherine Schuller, AICI, CIP Vice President of Marketing Association of Image Consultants International www.aicinytristate.org 917-375-0731

Model: Alex Larosa Photography: MomentsByMello.com

Model: Alex Larosa Dress|Styling: Huudaverti Photography: MomentsByMello.com

“Very Few People can Guess that I Am Actually

Italian”

Meet

Stacy The Incredible French Model Hails From

PARIS

Model: Stacy Egerie Dress: Onoz Photography: MomentsByMello.com

I am Crystal Her. A Proud Asian Model From a little place called

Hmong

Model: Crystal Her Photographer: Erin Fackler

The Top 3 Summer Detoxes

Master Cleanse This 10-Day Cleanse involves very few calories coming in and lots of toxins coming out -- by way of cayenne pepper, lemon, maple syrup and a daily laxative. Beyonce swears by it and credits it for the 20lbs she dropped before "Dreamgirls". The BluePrint Juice Cleanse This popular cleanse takes the guesswork out of the equation. Choose the beginner, moderate or advanced level and BluePrint will deliver the juice to you. All you have to do is pick your flavors and drink the all-natural juice when it arrives. It's foolproof

JuJu Cleanse The best part about the JuJu Cleanse is that it's quick: just one or three days. Order the pre-mixed juices online and you'll be well on your way to a healthier you. The juice mixture focuses on restoring your body's alkalinity and flushing the toxins (with a mild laxative) to hurry your body into a more natural state.

Choco Peanut Butter Ice Cream Ingredients (Serves 2)

2 Bananas 1 Tablespoons Organic Peanut Butter (No Added Sugar) 1 Tablespoon Cacoa Nibs Peel bananas then place in a plastic bag and freeze.

Once bananas are frozen, place in food processor along with peanut butter and process until the mixture becomes thick and smooth. Pour mixture into a plastic tub, add cacoa nibs and stir through. Re freeze for a couple of hours and then take out of freezer 5 mins before serving. Scoop out using an ice cream scoop and serve.

Eat Healthyâ&#x20AC;Ś

Money Matters Simple Financial Tips for the Common Woman

Todays’ Tip:

Forget About Get Rich Quick Schemes!!! Never do business or an investment of any kind with anyone who is rushing you to spend YOUR MONEY! When someone is trying to sell you on a “New Money Venture(Scheme)” they are involved with, ask them to provide itemized proof through checks and receipts on how much they’ve made since being in the business. If they can’t provide… Tell them to take a hike!!!

FBM Spotlights Publicist

FBM:One word you would use to describe yourself? Ernest: Passionate Why? Because as a Publicist I take every project personally. I feel that if you trust me with your dream, I have to embody your goals and make them a reality. FBM: Describe your company and what you do? Ernest: We do Public Relations. Artist/Model Management and Video/Photography. We have worked with some of todays top celebrities and have worked high end Red Carpets. We have really catered to the Plus Size industry as of late, mainly because we want to help the ladies of the industry reach their goals. We started with management of Plus Size Super Model Christina Mendez and now we work with Celebrity Fitness Instructor/Plus Model Charity Lynette. Who knows what's next. I do know we have a lot of love and support for Full Blossom Faces "Michele Hilton and Andrea Jackson", who are beautiful ladies inside and out. We also have worked with Popular Plus Model/Writer Kymberly Nichole, who is doing great things right now. FBM: At what age did you realize you wanted to become a publicist? Who and/or what were your inspirations? Ernest: My first big break came doing Independent promotions for J Records at 28. My first project was "Mario" Just a Friend. From there I went to promoting for Roc-A-Fella Records & Def Jam. As the music died down from street promotions, I needed another avenue of staying in the business. I started my own tv show called "The VIP Section" with some partners Eduardo Simmonds, Wayne Christie, & Durvel Wilson. While doing that we met a lot of Publicists and I quickly realized they where the windows to the big stars. I wanted to become one, but didn't know how to start. I also thought you had to go to school for it. I was about to give up on that idea until I seen a post on craigslist for a Junior Publicist for a press day with Kurupt of The Dogg Pound and other West Coast artist who was in town for the Hip Hop Honors. I answered it and met the amazing Publicist Trea Davenport. That day I found my calling and with that she guided me on the path of PR until I was able to walk on my own. I am so grateful because today I can help others dreams come through. When people hire MNS Media for a project they don't only get a Publicist but a great Marketing mind comes with that as well.

FBM: Who and/or what continues to inspire you throughout your life in general?

Ernest: God is my biggest inspiration but honestly I use facebook a lot and watching all these great people promoting what they are doing on my timeline is motivating. My partner Durvel Wilson also Inspires me because he works his butt of in the studio with the artist development and still has time to be a family man and work a part time job. I am hoping that our new TV show "Spades After Dark" produced by MNS Media/Concept Group NYC and Keith White, will allow my whole team to be able to eat and live off this great project.

FBM: Do you have a favorite quote or phrase that gives you extra drive? Ernest: I have two. 1. Quote: 2 Thessalonians 3:10 "If a Man Don't Work He Shouldn't Eat" 2.

Phrase: "THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX"

FBM: How did you hear about Full Blossom Magazine? What was your first impression? Ernest: Working within the Plus Model Industry you are bound to hear about those that stand out in the business. I heard about the magazine a lot at events and online. Eventually I met Mello Andrews and instantly know we would work together. He has the Grind & the Mind, like myself. I am the Publicist for Full Blossom Magazine and will make sure that it will be one of the top magazines in the business, visibility wise. FBM: What advice or last words do you have for our readers? No matter what, keep it grinding. If someone don't accept you in this business then you start your own. Never feel like your not meant for it, because people don't support you. "THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX" PLEASE MAKE SURE AND FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @stricklyforthep on Facebook: MNS Media For PR Services email us at stricklyforthepromo@gmail.com

Model: Charity Lynette Photography by: Artistic Cliques

5 Ways to Survive a

Heatwave By Latashia Andrews

A little sweat never hurt nobody, but a Heat Stroke can!!! Here are a few ways to Cheat the Heatâ&#x20AC;Ś

1.Visit Cool Places… • • • •

Museums Libraries Malls Movies

I am a Full Blossom Beauty

2. GET WET… • • • • •

Go to the Beach Go to the Pool Go to a Water Park Have a Water Fight Open a Johnny Pump Model: Malinda Bell "YUMYUM" Photography: Kaan Photos

3. Dress Smart… • Wear a Wide Brim Hat • Wear light colors & Fabrics

4. Eat Light… • Salads • Fruit • Vegetables

5. Relax! Don’t work to hard • Leave Work as Early as Possible • Stay Away from Stressful People • Cut Back on Strenuous Work, save the gardening and yard work for a cooler day

Cheat The Heat By Lakeisha Smith

It’s that time of year again, my favorite of course. Summer, summer, summertime, in my Fresh Prince voice. With temperatures rising and humidity rising with it, our summer days can become uncomfortable and miserable. We can get to the point where the heat is so unbearable that we are wishing the short season away. While we cannot do anything about the heat, we can do some things to “cheat the heat.” From how we wear our hair, to the activities we take part in, to the foods we eat. There are ways to “Cheat The Heat.” A big one for me is the hair! As we want to keep our hair fly and beautiful, we sometimes forget how much it can contribute to being overly heated. Try going for a short haircut. Short hairstyles are very manageable do’s. You don’t have to worry about that long hair hovering down your back and over your shoulders. Go to a professional that you know and trust and cut off that mane for the summer. Besides, it’s only hair and will grow back! If you of course love your long hair and refuse to part with it, there are also some techniques to keep cool. Create a style that will allow for you to pull your hair away from your face. There’s nothing worse than having a bunch of hair attacking your face along with the smoldering heat. Placing your hair in a very sexy ponytail is another way of keeping your long hair while cheating the heat. Ponytails are some of the oldest but now modernized accommodating do’s.

Cheat The Heat (Cont’d) As I was growing up, one-way to cheat the heat was getting wet by the fire hydrants. Someone in the neighborhood would come by with a wrench big enough to twist the top and front locks off of the fire hydrant in order for the children, and yes adults, to get wet and cool off from the scorching heat. I am by no means encouraging this ; ) but it use to work for us! If you are saying to yourself, I am way too old to be getting wet via fire hydrant, I will just say this, don’t knock it till you try it! If the fire hydrant deal doesn’t work for you, check out your local lakes and beaches. A nice walk along the shores and piers, coupled with a nice relaxing day in the sand, is a sure way to cheat the heat. Water parks are also a great way to stay cool and relaxed. What we eat can also contribute to summertime blues. Foods that are heavy such as subs and burgers can cause us to feel sluggish, tired and too full. Try keeping it light and fresh. Items such as green salads, light pasta salads, fresh fruits and vegetables and lean meats will keep you satiated with a light refreshed feeling. There’s nothing worse than having heavy food in your system when the weather is hot. It can be very uncomfortable. I know we all like to celebrate and party during the summer with alcohol beverages. Just keep in my, that alcohol beverages elevate your body temperature. Keep the alcohol beverages to a minimum. If you are going to drink, drink when the sun sets, as it will be much cooler and more enjoyable. Water should always be a staple during the summer months as it will keep you hydrated, cool, and contribute to your healthy beautiful skin. Stay cool, and if you can’t, utilize these tips to “cheat the heat.” Enjoy your summer, Full Blossom Subscribers!

I am a Full Blossom Beauty

You Are About to Enter theâ&#x20AC;Ś Model: Nicole Flores Hair, Makeup, Styling:Barbie Armstrong Photography: MomentsByMello.com

PNB photography Makeup/Hair/Styling Chrisandra Wells Swimsuit- Forever 21+

Model: Shani Arias Photographer: Mercy D. Perkins of Merciful Photography www.mercifulphotography.com Hair: Marla Moorer of Hair Control Makeup: Lyrica Wafer of Makeup by Lyrie

Models: Andrea Jackson/ Michele Hilton MUA: Tasha Andrews Photography: MomentsByMello.com

Model: Michele Hilton Photography: MomentsByMello.com

Model: Andrea Jackson MUA: Tasha Andrews Photography: MomentsByMello.com

Summer Swimwear ByAngel Spangler

FATKINI!

Seriously, can you research plus size swimwear

without seeing that word? Probably not. And it’s a good thing! Finally plus size women are coming out of the woodworks, and demanding that designers start thinking of them when creating sexy swimwear. With Gabi Gregg’s fatkini selling out in record time, fatkinis and plus size bathing suits have made national news. Until pretty recently, the pickings have been very slim as far as swim suits that don’t make us look like grandmas, or like we want to cover every last bit of skin. It’s too hot to be wearing capris and a t-shirt outside, much less to the pool. Whether you’re like me and have been lusting after fatkinis for the past few years, or you have your eye on something a little more conservative (but equally cute, of course), then you know that bathing suit season and summer is a time to be celebrated. This year, we’re throwing away those worries and anxieties of the impending doom that most think of when they think of shopping for swimwear. This summer, we’re excited to get out to the pool or on the beach and show some skin. This summer, we’re going to flaunt our stuff in shorts and sleeveless tops because they’re cute. And because they come in our size. And because it’s just too dang hot to wear anything else. This summer, we’re going to be fierce, fabulous, and sexy in as little or as much clothing as we want. Enjoy the summer, ladies. You deserve it.

Model: Michele Hilton Photography: MomentsByMello.com

Model: Nicole Flores Hair, Makeup, Styling:Barbie Armstrong Photography: MomentsByMello.com

Model: Andrea Jackson MUA: Tasha Andrews Photography: MomentsByMello.com

Indulge a little bitâ&#x20AC;Ś

Workout Tips for Curvy Chicks. Lets Get it Ladies written by Charity Lynette

Hello my fellow curvy chicks! I get a ton of emails inquiring about what exercises workout specific body parts the best. So I am going to give you basic exercises for the main body part and most of these exercises can be done at home with or without weights. You want to do 4 sets of 15 to 20 reps per exercise. To burn more calories do 25 jumping jacks in between each exercise and resting for 10 seconds after completing the jumping jacks.

Thighs & Glutes Squat kicks are great for the glutes! There are two different ways you can do them. Make sure your legs are shoulder width apart squat down and on your way back up kick the right leg in front of you, squat back down and this time kick with the left leg. This can also be done with kicking your leg to the side instead of the front. Remember to count your squat not the kicks for reps. Leg lifts can be done standing up or lying down. If standing put hands on your hips and extend your leg and lift the leg up and down.When doing leg lifts make sure that your foot is flexed or pointed and that the foot doesn't hit the ground during your set. These can be done lying on your side. Walking lunges are amazing for the outer thighs. When starting these make sure you have enough room to walk forward. To begin you want to step forward with the right leg and lower your left knee to the ground by bending the left leg and making sure the right knee doesn't go over the toe. On your way up you want to step forward with the left leg and do the same thing. These can be without walking you just need to make sure that instead of walking forward on your way up the leg you stepped forward with comes back to the starting position.

Biceps & Triceps Arm curls work the biceps. You will need at least a 5 lb dumb bell. Start with elbows at your waist make sure that they are actually touching your waist with your palms up. Holding the dumb bells lower them so that your arm is extended and curl up keeping your wrist straight making sure to curl the arms all the way up. Push ups work your triceps as well as your back. On your knees or on your toes place hands a little over shoulder width apart keeping your back straight lower your body to the ground without actually touching and resting on the ground before pushing your self back up Arm circles mainly work the shoulders. These can be done with our with out weights start at a lighter weight on these 3 to 5 lbs should do the trick even gallons of water will work just pour water out if its too heavy. Extend arms to the side and make small circles going forward for 20 reps then switch directions doing 20 more.

Abs Abs are tricky. There are ab exercises that work the muscles but they don't get rid of belly fat. To really get the area around your mid section you really need to be on top of your cardio and watching your sugar and carb intake. That is the first area those two are stored if they aren't burned off. Straight arm crunches are very easy. Start by lying on your back with you legs bent straighten your arms beside you and crunch up and down while keeping your arms straight beside you. Leg holds sound like they would only work your legs but that is the secondary muscle group that they work. Start by lying on the ground on you back. Place the palms of yours hand on the ground and move them under you so that you are literally sitting on your hands. Extend your legs and lift them both off the ground at the same time. You don't need to raise them high off the ground but high enough so that they are not touching the ground and you are going to hold them there for as long as your can. When you can't hold them any long just relax and let them come down. How ever long you held them that is what you will use to measure the next hold. If it was 10 seconds or 60 seconds do the same length of time next hold. Resting only 5 to 7 seconds in between each hold. These are just a few basic exercises that can be done in the comfort of your home. Make sure that you are stretching before and after and are getting plenty of water while exercising. If you have any questions please feel free to contact me! Follow the movement @curvychickfit on Twitter and like my fan page on Facebook Curvy Chick Fitness for tips on exercises and nutrition

4GREAT VACATION SPOTS Yellow Stone National Park, Wyoming • Visit Old FaithfulThe most renowned Geyser in the world

Atlantic City, New Jersey • • • • •

Eat Dance See a show Gamble Swim

4GREAT VACATION SPOTS Montego Bay, Jamaica • • • •

Waterfalls Swimming Nightlife Great Food

Yellow Stone National Park, Wyoming Visit Old Faithful- The most renowned Geyser in the world

Rome • • • •

Sight seeing Great food Tours Visit the Colosseum

Maintaining Wellness With A Busy Life By LaTanya Ward Showers, LWDesires

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s great to plan fitness goals for the summer and perhaps for some a new chapter in life. Juggling it all and staying on top of your health can be a bit of a challenge sometimes. If you wish to not only look good in your new swimsuit but also want to commit to a health and fitness plan then start off by making at least small adjustments to your busy lifestyle.

Good nutrition and regular exercise are just a few healthy habits to help you focus on your path to wellness and more importantly staying fit even beyond the summer months.

Model: LaTanya Ward-Showers Photographer: Kevin Osborne with Banana Glass Photography

We interviewed Certified Personal Trainer and Lecturer in Health and Kinesiology Tunetha Wren Parchem, MPT for a few nutrition and exercise tips to help shift your thinking from too busy to exercise mentality to thinking of ways to use your time better.

I was hoping for a magic number below 30, but Tunetha confirmed that according to the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) at least 30 minutes of exercise is the best way to gain results.

Ok so no excuses, finding the time to exercise can be a challenge but there are always ways to fit it in. One tip Tunetha suggested is to try and get up at least 30 minutes earlier one to two times a week until your body adjusts to morning workouts. Body weight exercises such as squats, push-ups, lunges, and crunches can all be done in the comfort of your home. Tunetha also adds that exercising in the comfort of your home can help you save time from having to drive to the gym. And when it comes to personal activity skip the mall or dinner out with your friends and encourage them to join you for a group exercise instead. All of you can catch up on the latest and get your fitness in at the same time. Nutrition is one of the main reasons fitness goals are not obtained so to stay on target Tunetha suggests planning ahead. Overcome distraction and be at the top of your game by getting organized. One of the best ways to reduce stress while making the most of your tight schedule is to get organized and energize your mind. You can also energize your mind by eating the right foods. Beat the urge of snacking on greasy and fried foods by packing healthy snacks such as fruit, veggies, cheese and crackers. Just because certain foods are easily accessible doesn’t mean they are good for you so PLAN AHEAD! Focus on the health and fitness goals you set and make good use of your valuable time. Even if you have to do it in small increments each week make the time. It’s ok to be busy, but don’t let yourself get overwhelmed. Establish a lifestyle that will help you stay on schedule, set realistic goals, and continue to make strides on the right path.

NATURALLY YOU Dedicated to the Beauty of Natural Hair

Interview with 1. What inspired you to go natural?

If you did not know, I am a Triple Negative Breast Cancer Survivor. Almost 6 years to be exact. I chopped my hair before I allowed chemotherapy to take it out. When I was done with treatments, I vowed to never cut my hair again.

Suzette Michelle

2. When did you do your big chop?

My chemotherapy was complete in 9/2008. This is when I consider myself to be cancer free. From then until the day after thanksgiving 2012, I was wearing wigs. I decided to wear my natural hair and put a head band around it on Thanksgiving. It so tight, I had a severe headache. The very next day I took my sister, Sherronda Green, ad we went straight to the barber.

3. What is your current hair regimen?

Every week or week in a half I go to Guy Germain at Upper Cuts Barber Shop in Linden, NJ and he makes sure I'm right and out quickly.

4. What are your favorite hair products?

I moisturizer with Organic Shea Butter or Olive Oil brush and go. It's a beautiful thing!! 5. What are the pros and cons you've faced having natural hair? The pros are it's easy hair maintenance. Being natural doesn't require the heat or unnecessary processes that break down the hair. I have never come up against anyone that doesn't say something positive about my hair. I can be as short as I want and wear a wig if I want and still get the se compliments. The versatility is great!!! The cons are society sees beauty as long hair and will over look natural beauty for hair. In the words of India Arie 'I am not my hair' there is not many other con because most people are wearing weave, wigs and extensions and so can I. I just prefer my natural crop.

Model: Suzette Michelle Designer: Marco Hall Photographer: Oz Millenia/Falcone-Reale Fotografia LLC

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