Express Me, Express You, Embrace We
Cover Story 12 Married To Ministry with Prophet Monique Strong
Featured 6 Dani Jo, Dancing with Great Joy with Dandria Williams 17 CEO Life ~ Theatrical Soul Saving with LaTosha Holden
20 Contents of My Clutch
with Author Chazle’ Woodley
35 Saluting the Bond of Marriage with Chef Veah
Voices of LASUMXP & Guests 3
Editor’s Heart Beat
Prophet Monique Strong
22
Nailz GlamHer
23
Woman, A Wife of Wisdom
27
Reuniting & It Tastes So Good
Shana Sanders
Apostle Denise Chase
w/Chef Chantea
To share your story or advertise with us, send an email to: mzmoministry@gmail.com
Wow! It has been two years and I still love this. It is challenging and at times I question rather or not I should continue. But with each issue of LASUMXP, every story shared, recipe or glam tip, I smile bigger and brighter. I know that there are so many more women with stories, unknown, yet to be penned and still needing to grace the hearts of those who’ll dare to journey on with me. I absolutely never had intentions on being the cover story of any issue of LASUMXP. But here we are and with so much more to share. While I never intended to be on the cover, nor write beyond the “Heart Beat” pieces, I did have dreams of being on the cover of a magazine. I just didn’t know, as that bright-eyed little girl, full of hope that I would share in the responsibility and honor of producing it. With so much going on it can be overwhelming just being ourselves. We have to stay woke, support everyone we know, be a friend but mind our business, encourage others, pray, go to work, church, school, PTA...wait! Do parents still go to PTA meetings? Do they still have them? Anyway, cook and learn new ways to make healthier eating choices. Because God knows that nothing is truly healthy for us. There is so much fighting for our attention and demanding our time. We have less and less time for ourselves and relationships seem more fragile than ever. Maybe it is because we are all (those of us who this applies to) stretched a little thin. Pouring out so much of ourselves, with an unrecognizable return. But we are so busy that we overlook the return, rewards and simple, yet beautiful gifts of life. That friend that cracks jokes, prays down walls, slays demons, smiles brightly and calls to check on you often, may need your undivided attention. But you’re worn out being the world’s greatest mom, hubby’s good thing and juggling the demands of your life that await you, the moment you open your eyes. The point is that we can all use a friend. We need each other. The prayer warrior, the wife, the mom, the oldest sibling, the CEO, the preacher, the single friend with no kids, the encourager, the worshipper, the coach, the cook, the teacher, the happy one and so on. A “Hey sister girl, how are you? How have you been? Is there anything we can lock hands on and pray about?” goes a long way. We live our lives crossing the paths of many, yet some bearing the weight of our world on our shoulders alone. In a world full of countless people, we still live seemingly solo lives. Even some who are married with/(out) children still feel alone, invisible and at times unappreciated. Ministries, organizations, books, conferences, blogs, live/periscope videos, coaches, vision boards, focus frames and magazines, yet for some, there is still no life-changing connection. For some of us, it is time to take a pause for the cause. We must reevaluate and reprioritize some things and make it a priority to see about ourselves. Honesty about where we are and what’s going on with us is a good thing and necessary for others to assist us. Although those close to us know a thing or two about us, they don’t major in reading our minds. Not that their assistance doesn’t mean they have the answer. Sometimes it simply lets them know to check in on us a little more, or at all. Maybe all they have time for is to give the biggest tightest hug they can muster up. “I need help” also means that you matter too and is an opportunity for those connected to us, to cover us with love, prayer or resources if needed and on hand. It doesn’t make you a punk, nor is it a sign of defeat. It means help me to journey on. Be sure that even in your own time of need that your ear is tuned to hear the call of others. Maybe all you’ll be
able to do is cry together. Just make sure you have enough tissue for you both ;) I’m not saying have a pity party. Sometimes getting it out, frees you up to get to work on making it better. Some of the greatest strategy sessions have been birthed from venting sessions. It brings a comfort that although you’re living it out, it isn’t a personal punishment. You may find answers within your circle to things you’ve been struggling with and be the answer to some things that others have been struggling with. Switching gears a bit. It is October and the last quarter of the year. Yearly I shut down for the last three months of the year. October is my month of reflection. I am honest with myself, I look back over the year and take note of what transpired. How did I handle things? What things did I just let go unchecked? What areas did I neglect? What did I lend my time, talents and treasures to the most? Were they fruitful? Did I seed fertile soil to yield my desired future harvest? Did I accomplish what I set out to? Why not? What worked and didn’t work? Are there things still around pass their expiration? November is my time of seeking. I seek God for wisdom, accurate discernment and guidance. There is a lot of study, prayer and concentrated worship during this time. I pull on heaven like never before. Now December is the time to write it down, document my strategy and prepare to make the next year more fruitful than those before. That’s also when I struggle with my thoughts the most. At times it trips me up, but I’m working on it. I am looking forward to another great year for LASUMXP! Bigger, better and deeper we shall grow. In This Issue… I actually purchased and read the book by our featured author, Chazle’ Woodley. Wow! She really lets us in and takes us on a journey. Grab a copy. Oh, My Goodness! The journey with the chefs in this issue. Amazing! There were three scheduled, so we are missing one treat. But we’ll get it in the next issue. I hope you enjoy them as much as I did while editing them. Speaking of editing, anyone interested in joining me? Shana, our Nailz GlamHer tech, has some great tips for those of us who rock those nail extensions. I’m so glad she is back with us. Email her your questions, so she can start on her next articles :) Our CEO an Artist came through for us. I had the pleasure of seeing a production by both ladies and it blessed me so. Connect with them and stay tuned, as I am sure they’ll have many opportunities to bless your hearts beyond their stories shared in this issue. So glad to have Apostle Chase sharing with us and she has already committed to sharing with us for 2018. But it will be on a whole new scale, so stay tuned. Well, on with your reading. Enjoy and don’t forget to share it with every woman you know. Love you all. Hugs, kisses, favor and Kingdom living be your portion. Smooches Queens! Xoxo Keep IT Kingdom!
Monique Strong
LASUMXP Editor In Chief
info@LASUM.org
www.moniquestrong.org
Dani Jo, Dancing with great Joy By Dandria Williams
People always ask me, “Dani Jo, how did you start dancing?” The story is quite interesting. I remember being in the middle of a large circle of my fellow three-year-old peers in preschool, dancing during a game called, “Going to Kentucky”. I would put my hands on my hips and shake side to side with a big smile on my face. My teacher told my mom about how much rhythm I had so, she put me in dance classes. That’s when I knew that I loved to dance. I studied with legendary Janet Jackson choreographer Gil Duldulao, and studios such as Cityside Dance Company, joined Michele Clark High School’s majorette team, multiple hip hop dance groups including 187 Footwork Team, and even founded dance groups in various genres such as lyrical, jazz, mime, etc. I kept my grades up graduating number 5 in my class with Honors. I wanted to be a professional dancer but doubted whether it was a good career path financially. I decided to attend Lewis University in Romeoville, IL majoring in Accounting. The moment I got there I joined 3 dance teams! I couldn’t run from what I was called to do! I returned to Chicago and finished at Columbia College Chicago as a Dance major. While attending Columbia, I got my first dance Teaching Artist gig at Kidz Express NFP, a free community center located in the Austin neighborhood of Chicago (screaming “Westside” in my deep voice) where I grew up. I went from teaching a 1-hour dance class to a management position in a year the result of being dedicated to changing the lives of youth beyond dance. Dance was simply the tool to teaching life skills and addressing emotional and environmental issues affecting black kids in my neighborhood. I started a program called “Girl Talk” and “Guy Talk” to provide resources and education to prevent and assist with teen pregnancy. In November 2012, God told me to start my own dance company so I resigned. There were a lot of people that thought I was crazy and that I would fail in my venture. I ignored them. My family was in my corner, always down. I struggled for a year with marketing, finding a studio, money and most of all health. In January 2013, I was diagnosed with Interstitial Cystitis (IC) and doctors said I wouldn’t dance anymore. For those that don’t know what IC is, here’s a brief crash course. IC, also known as Painful Bladder Syndrome is a condition causing chronic bladder pressure, pain and pelvic pain and may cause erosions on the bladder lining. People with it may have to urinate 40-60 times a day and may not be able to perform daily routines due to the pain. There is no cure available, but medical pain relief is. When I was diagnosed my condition was chronic. I could not move around much. I remained on a daily medication called Elmiron and bladder instillations weekly. I became depressed at one point but, my desire to dance overpowered my depression. I knew that my purpose is to inspire through dance and I could not let anything stop that! I begin to research a cure heavily. I knew that one of my doctor’s orders was to rid my diet of spices, acid, cured meat and citrus. I started there. When I had a flare up I would eat almonds, blueberries, and power through the pain. Eventually, my doctor took me off the medicine and I could move freely again in 6 months! To this day, I’m still
on that same diet. Yes, I still feel the pain, but the pain isn’t stopping me! I feel like that was the test to see if I was ready to conquer the storm and shine in my purpose. My first day returning to dance was in June 2013. I took a Zumba class with Iris T. London at a studio in Oak Park, IL. I got a spot at the back of the class because I figured I would be a little rusty picking up the dance moves. She spotted me and said, “You’re a dancer! I know it.” She asked me to be her assistant at her dance company, Brand New Life Performing Arts. I accepted the offer. In the same year, she closed her company of 17 years and transferred me her clientele. I opened my dance company originally called Be You Now Performing Arts Company (BY’NPAC). After running BY’NPAC for a year I wanted to make some improvements with new marketing, branding, and business structure so we went under construction for about a year. I was quite busy with my career doing Broadway shows, choreographing for Harold Washington Cultural Center and rapper, T-Star. It seems that after I started moving in my destiny, I met my husband, T. L. Williams. All through life I was trying to find my husband. The moment I focused on building me, God sent the man that I was made for. We met backstage at The Black Women’s Expo in Chicago. I was performing with T-Star and he was headlining the next day. When I went home and told my parents I had met someone they freaked out. They knew more about my husband than I did because they were fans of his music! Our first date was April 3, 2014, we got married 2 years later April 3, 2016. Since then I have choreographed for various recording artists, events, and schools, also reopened my dance company, with my husband called The Dani Jo Company. I work as a Dance Teaching Artist and Choreographer at The Joffrey Ballet. I teach over 200 kids a year ages 5 and up in the Chicagoland and South suburban areas. I also have the pleasure of teaching at The Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University at Hearts to Arts, a program that offers healing through art for kids ages 7-14 who experienced the loss of a parent. We provide music, theatre, dance and healing counselors to work through the stages of grief. As an African American woman from the Austin neighborhood of Chicago, the statistics say that I shouldn’t have made it this far. Inspiring and building up others is my calling, which is why I teach dance. My journey like others is unique to my very own destiny. Dancing is moving with purpose and when I’m dancing all is well!
With Prophet Monique Strong was a girl with low self-esteem and a load of daddy issues that could sink the Titanic. Who was my daddy anyway and why did his absence have such an effect on a cute little chocolate drop? With eyes as wide and full of light as headlights, cute little hands, a sweet face and a smile that could brighten a room. It took me 30 years to see the beauty in me. I didn’t think about it too much in my younger years. I can’t even tell you when the ugly lies came in. But there they were. I was never phased by what a girl said about me. But if a boy, young man or man said or acted like I was unattractive…that sent me spiraling. Rejection was my enemy that I courted quite often. After a few scary experiences with dating an sex, I started abstaining. I did really well for just over 8 years. I fell off for a couple of brief encounters and got back on track. You can read the longer version in my next book ;) Once I started abstaining my relationship with God blossomed. I started back going to church regularly, singing in the choir (where I shouldn’t have been…lol) and I had found my true voice through prayer. Now I started back going to church regularly before I started abstaining. Abstaining came about a year or so later. My spiritual big sister, Dee, had adopted me as her prayer partner. We studied, hung out, had a ball, prayed, worked with the youth, sang in the choir and were going to change the world together, one youth at a time. We were going to be sharp doing it too. No stuffy old lady church clothes for us. Our shoe game was bad and needed weekly alter prayer. One night there was a special prayer service called at the church. I can’t remember what bad thing had taken place that rocked the nations, but we were in prayer. Since it was a first, there was no real structure. Just anybody who felt like praying, walk up to the mic and pray. What in the world was I doing strolling down the aisle to the mic? There I was! This young girl with a bad attitude, quick sharp tongue, was standing at the mic. I opened my mouth and God shocked everybody. Even me! When I opened my eyes my big sis was standing there clapping, with this huge smile on her face, because she knew. She graced the mic after me and soon, we were the two young praying sisters, known around the church. But Dee had a different type of boldness and she embraced it. Me…I wanted no parts of it or ministry. But I liked what was developing between me and God. Dee and a few others went to a women’s retreat that defied religious boundaries. It introduced them to a portion of God that changed all of our lives. They returned on fire and began thirsting for God even more. I wanted some of whatever they had and they wanted more. This desire sent us in pursuit of the whole truth about God. Not just the parts we had heard. Who is God really and what does a relationship with Him truly yield? At that point, the Jesus Junkies were birthed. There were about 5 or 6 of us and we were determined to taste and see that the Lord, Our God was/is gooooood! A whole year of praying, personal and small group bible study, conferences and messages from men and women of God who knew things we had never heard of. Finally, the retreat that started it all had come around again and I was on my way to encountering God like never before. Speaking in tongues, deliverance, two days of God’s Word, food, and no sleep. I didn’t know whether to rest in the fear or drown in what was so intriguing. Prophetic words being released. Prophecy? Really? What’s that? All I knew was that I wanted whatever God wanted for me. Just call me thirsty, because I was. I still attend the yearly Cedar Lake Women’s Retreat, hosted by Bobbie Grant and her lovely team. I was asked by many how I was able to abstain for so long. I said, the temptation was present and the desire, but I felt like I had grown so close to God and that sex would interrupt it. I loved sex for many reasons. But, even without full understanding, I loved what was exploding between God and I and sex wasn’t worth losing
it. This was the first relationship that felt good and didn’t disappoint in any way. Unlike the boys who were a part of my past, God was good to me, faithful and good for me. I didn’t know what all God had in store for me, but I was sure sticking around to find out. Although abstaining, my slick tongue was still a problem. Falling in love with God began to peel back the layers of life, abuse, neglect, rejection and hurt that had become a part of me. Prayer and working with the youth led to teaching the youth and starting one on one sessions with some of them, about life. I remember praying, asking God to use me, but I knew my mouth was going to be a problem. So I began praying for Him to deal with my mouth. Nobody knew, but God and I. One night at a “Sister Circle” gathering, the speaker called me up. She said, “You’ve been praying asking God to close your mouth or take it away. But God isn’t going to silence you. That same mouth you use today to tear down so many will be used to build up so many more. It’s not a mouth issue that you have, My daughter. It is a heart issue, known to many as a bad attitude.” I cried. Yep, this tough chic was a cry baby when it came to all things God. LOL. Then death hit my family when the men in my life started transitioning on. My job moved me to Charlotte, NC and I met some men and women of God that were instrumental in the next phase of my growth and development. I remember sitting and hanging on their every word. My oh, my did I ever really know God? Asked and answered. As one day standing in my huge walk in closet, off of my master suite, I wondered about that very question. I felt like the Holy Spirit whispered to my spirit and said, “Do you really want to know the Truth?” and I nervously said yes. Then His response was, “in order to know the truth, you must forget everything you know. Because even what you know isn’t the full truth.” Surrendering all, I embarked on a never ending, life changing journey. The more time I spent on my knees, face or back alone with just God’s Spirit, the more I learned about Him. The more I learned about Him, the more I learned about me. Who I became, who I was to be and what forever would look like. I had a conversation with my spiritual leaders about being called to ministry and the training began. Prayer, Exhortations, Sermonettes to bringing forth the Word of God during service. Who would have thought? Well, my granny and my uncle did, but not me and many others either. But I left Chicago, hungry and open. Charlotte matured me and digging in God’s Word made me say yes to whatever He wanted to do with my life. I was sold out, on fire and void of fear. I was committed to God and wanted to tell everybody I knew about Him. That place gave birth to Lift A Sister Up Ministries aka LASUM. Birthed and implemented, but not long lived. It started with inspirational emails that I sent out to a few ladies, which grew to hundreds of women across multiple cities and states. Sharing, growing, expanding and life for me was going well. Excited about my installation service and chatting with an old friend from Chicago, conversations began to form visions and dreams of serving in ministry, in Chicago. Having someone to talk with that shared in this new passion and fire for serving was amazing. The passing of my prayer partner, Dee left me feeling alone in ministry. But I had God and He and I were rocking and I was all good. Longer story cut short and I am headed back to Chicago, resigned from the best job I ever had, abandoning my first brand new home and all of the things I filled it with. There were many days and nights I spent all over my house, worshipping God, crying out and interceding on behalf of people and places I knew nothing about. Receiving prophetic songs of worship, dancing before my Father and just building a love fest and holy boldness, I had never known before. So much transpired during my return. The making of the woman God called me to be, was excruciating and I didn’t recall asking for it. I said I wanted more of God, not the madness I was
encountering. But I learned that He looks upon the same things and far more each day and still loves us, hoping that we would rise above it. God longs for us to walk out His original intentions for us as a royal priesthood. Living holy as kings and queens, fruitful, and multiplying, replenishing, subduing and taking dominion in the earth. He wants us to prosper. Serving in ministry hasn’t been easy for me. But it is service, it is purpose. Why is it so hard? We were created to serve God and worship Him. Why is the fulfillment of God, Our Creator’s intent so hard? Is it really hard? The word says that the way of the transgressor is hard (Proverbs 13:15). Was my serving in ministry going against the grain of God’s intent/will? What was I doing wrong? I just wanted more of God and later for the madness. But serving God meant representing Him in the earth. Reminding each other to walk in love (Hebrews 10:2325). If we needed reminders then clearly we would at some point be in need of adjusting. That time of need wouldn’t be pleasant for those interacting with us. But the warfare that I was enduring was too much for me. I wasn’t mature enough to handle so much in my little walk. But it became part of my preparation. From 2009 through really 2016, it was like being submerged in the processing chemicals in a dark room. That time covered a span of chapters actually and seemed never ending. Through it all, I was still fighting to get my life back on track and had others looking to me for inspiration, encouragement and a word from God. How could I hear when I was so confused, disgusted with myself and unsure if God still loved me at times? God spoke to me about the details of my destiny, reminding me of the visions from my childhood, those that I didn’t understand and feared. He began to walk me through what ministry for me had been and what was to come. God was still processing me to walk out my purpose. Bishop Thomas and Apostle Jean Porter were instrumental in me accepting my call to ministry and I was installed as a minister in October 2007. I was later ordained in May 2013 as a pastor and prophet, by the powerful Apostolic Duo Apostles Samuel and Denise Chase. No matter what I’ve experienced, nor how many times I wanted to give up on life, I’m still committed to growing in Christ and to living life on God’s terms. Continuously I am presenting my heart before the throne, with hopes of living a life that pleases God, glorifies Him and properly loves and servers His people. Being married to ministry, will never change, even as my ministry, my measure, my assignment does. Keep praying for me as I am still learning, growing and prayerfully maturing in the ways and will of God. As always, Keep IT Kingdom!
Prophet Monique Strong
CEO Life ~ Theatrical Soul Saving By LaTosha Holden
The day I realized that success was not contingent upon my bank account, I freed myself to fully operate in my theatrical gifting as a producer. In 2013, my husband and I gave birth to Holden Entertainment Ministry (HE Ministry). However, it has taken me another four years to accept my role and position regarding the purpose of this ministry. In short, today HE Ministry is transforming the theatrical setting from a place of entertainment to a place of worship and deliverance. My name is LaTosha M. Holden, MSIMC, I am the Producer of HE Ministry and we produce theatrical experiences that save souls. I am a forty-year-old southern belle that accepted the Lord as her Savior at the age of 12. I have always been a dreamer, who loves to entertain. Till this day, my aunts laugh at how I would walk around the house in my dress shoes trying to tap dance and how I would recite television commercials. My mother groomed me to be a strong choir singer, with an extensive range and ability to naturally harmonize. I wrote my first short story in the 9th grade and won my first essay contest in the 10th grade. You would have never known that I struggled to read and write. Like most southern seventies babies, we had two options after high school graduation which were either the military or college. Continuing my education after high school was not my choice, but Uncle Sam would not allow me to enlist. I quickly found myself as a high school senior with a 2.3 GPA. I was a poor reader, terrible speller, but I knew I was creative. Since I didn’t have the GPA to obtain scholarship money, I went back to my talent. In less than a year, I found money to pay for my undergraduate education through winning the oratorical contest, winning pageants, and obtaining a four-year theatre scholarship. It also didn’t hurt that my mom worked at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB). God’s plan for college manifested while attending UAPB I held the title of Best Actress from 1995 – 1999 and competed in a Miss Black USA scholarship pageant as Miss Black Arkansas 1996. Naturally, performance was and engrained in my purpose. However, professionally, you’d be surprised that I took a totally different route. I choose to pursue Mass Communications; a degree which I thought would provide a dependable salary and career. I soon found out that I needed to continue my education and specialize in a specific area of Mass Communications. Although I was now college educated, I still had issues with spelling and reading. Nevertheless, that did not stop me from pursuing my masters in Journalism. I lasted a year at the University of North Texas, as a Journalism major. I was on academic probation after one semester. I was ashamed, had no clue what to do next because I couldn’t pass my grammar and writing classes. Despite failing those classes, my counselor had also enrolled me in a consumer marketing class and that began my love affair with marketing. Marketing allowed me to be creative and it provided a financially secure profession with vast opportunities. At this point in time, I was a young adult, venturing off to the Chicagoland area with no safety net. Little did I know, God was setting me up for a future in ministry. For the most part, I’m not a risk taker. I’m a planner and I make strategic moves and decisions that are sure to benefit me. After obtaining my masters in Integrated Marketing Communications, I found my career path in professional medical associations. In my 16 years, I moved from a secretary to a director and was recognized
as one of Association Forums “Top 40 Under 40”, in 2014. At 39, I was technically successful, now what? The Lord led me to support my husband in finishing his degree. This decision put me in a position where I totally had to seek God like never before. I was surprised to find out that supporting my husband meant he would have to move to Jackson, Miss. to complete his degree while I remained in Lombard, Ill. with my two youngest children. It became clear that I was going to need to develop a stronger prayer life in order to get through 10 months of a long-distance marriage. Within those 10 months, I became a licensed evangelist and I received the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Shortly afterward, the Lord brought me back to my first love, Theatre. I was contacted by a graduate school friend that was directing the Amen Corner and needed someone to play the role of Odessa because the cast member was unable to perform two weeks before the show. It just so happened, that Odessa in the Amen Corner was the first role I ever played while on scholarship at UAPB. Those two weeks rekindled my desire to perform and create. Shortly after the play, I gave birth to my first theatrical ministry project, “…And God Spoke”, January 11, 2014. In 2014, God showed me how all things work for the good of those that love the Lord. Until then, I had never produced a play. Even though I paid for my undergraduate degree with a theatre scholarship, I never took any production classes. I learned stage commands and blocking from participating in the plays. I had the ability to remember everything that was said and everyone’s lines because I was covering up the fact that I struggled with reading. What I thought was my short coming or handicap, He used as my gift. I learned that God uses our short comings so that we cannot take credit for the blessings that come from them. Think about it, how does a person that stutters when she reads, failed her graduate grammar classes and barely passed her under grad grammar classes become a writer? Only by the grace of God! It would take me another three years before I fully accepted what God had assigned for me to do. It’s one thing to step out on faith; it’s another thing to set out in faith into uncharted territory. The hardest lesson I’ve learned in all of this has been to stay focused on what I have been assigned to do. Don’t compare myself to anyone else. Just complete the assignment. Do not despise small beginnings. My success is based on fulfilling that which God has entrusted me to do, not how profitable it may become. Be confident that God’s Word, which He shared with us in Isaiah 55:11 (b), … it shall not return to me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. Today, I’m blessed to say that my husband and I are the pioneers of a new theatrical worship experience and we are fully embracing God’s plan for us with our next project to be released September 2018. Our Christian faith based theatrical productions are accompanied with praise and worship, prayer, in addition to a call to Christ. The goal is to meet the people where they are and minister to their souls in such a way that they can instantly relate to the message that’s being ministered to them through theatrical soul saving.
Contents of My Clutch By Chazle Woodley Greetings Ladies! My name is Chazle’ Woodley and I am honored to be featured in the October edition of LASUMXP. I was born and raised in Durham, NC and moved to Chicago, IL in 2014 when I married the love of my life, Keith D. Woodley. My husband and I met at Kids Across America Christian sports camp in Summer 2009, where I was a camp counselor for the entire summer and he was the Director of Programs. Essentially, a few years after camp, our friendship blossomed, a bad storm hit Chicago which peaked my interest and increased our communication, and I always like to say it this way…”He started talking to me, and I to him...and it hasn’t stopped since.” Now that I’ve moved to the city and could be considered a somewhat Chicagoan, I am still a proud Southern Belle with a goal of making Chicago full of more love, more southern hospitality, and more fellowship because I strongly believe that if people loved more, they would kill less. Like many women, I wear a variety of hats with my most permanent one being a daughter of the King. I am also a wife as mentioned above, a mother to a growing 7-month-old Keith Jr. who we call “KJ,” a sister, an auntie, and a friend. Though I am small in stature, I have affectionately been called a “pit-bull with pearls” because of my bold, loving, and passionate preaching and teaching style. From the time I gave my life to Jesus Christ at 8 years old, I knew that I wanted to be an evangelist and preach and teach the word of God. After preaching sermons to my great-grandmother as a young girl, I became involved in ministry at my local church and the rest is history. As I have progressed through life, I have noticed that one thing that unites us all is that we all have or will experience one of life’s trials. These life experiences birthed the creation of my first book because the Holy Spirit showed me that everything we need to overcome life’s obstacles has already been placed inside of us by Jesus Christ. He’s such a good Father that he doesn’t only forewarn us several times in his Word that we will face tribulation, but he also promises us that he will be with us in the midst of it and that he has already overcome it. We are students, wives, mothers, career women, or all or none of the above. What if I told you that everything you needed to overcome and to face trials was literally within your reach? My story about possessing the very things needed to do so is found in “Contents Of My Clutch.” I encourage all readers to come join me on an amazing journey as I use common items found in a woman's clutch purse to provide symbolism of how, when viewed on a deeper level, can equip you to live victoriously. I essentially take items found in your purse and show how they can be used spiritually to overcome trials, and I use my own life experiences to provide an open look into how the Holy Spirit equipped me to do so. For example, I explain how lipstick is not just for putting on your lips, but what's more important is what comes out of your mouth. My first and newly released book “Contents Of My Clutch” can be purchased on all Amazon outlets and on www.createspace.com. All booking requests can be directed to www.chazlewoodleyministries.com.
Nailz GlamHer By Shana Sanders
Okay, Ladies, it’s your Nailz GlamHer Natural Nail Tech here again with some 411. Now we all know how those No-chip manicures, gel nails, and acrylic nails make our natural nails weak over time. But what I bet you didn’t know, is that in-between getting those pretty nail enhancements that we all just LOVE sooooooo much there are a few nail soaks you could do at home to strengthen your natural nails and keep them strong. The first nail soak I am introducing is going to be a Milk and Honey Soak. Yea, yea I know what you all are saying because I am Laughing Out Loud right now as I type it. So the answer to your question is YES. Yes, I use honey for and in everything, from what I eat, drink, scrub (face/hands/feet and body) now down to my nails. It’s my number one go to anti-inflammatory ingredient and I LOVE IT!!! The milk and honey soak will provide strengthening benefits from the double calcium because calcium is in both ingredients. Mix ¼ cup of milk and 1 tbsp. of honey in a bowl and use this soak 2 times a week, at least 10 to 12 minutes each soak session. When done soaking, rinse and dry your nails and add coconut oil for moisture. After 3 weeks you should begin to see and feel the strengthening results. The second soak that I am going to introduce is the Egg Soak. This soak has 2 ingredients also, which are egg yolks and olive oil. The strengthening benefit of egg yolks is the protein that it provides the nails and olive oil has natural fatty oils and vitamins that can help reproduce any skin cells that may have been lost, from multiple enhancements and not taking a break in between those treatments. Mix 2 egg yolks and a tbsp. of olive oil in a bowl and soak your nails for at least 10 to 12 minutes each soak session. Do this 2 times a week or alternate with the milk and honey soak either or. When done soaking rinse and dry your nails, then moisturize with coconut oil. I suggest doing one or both of these treatments right before getting your manicures done for the BEST results!! The soaks can also be used for hand and foot facials but that’s another article so stay tuned until Pen and Paper meet again!! Smoochies XOXO Shana Let’s Discuss some Nail Topics! Email me@: NailzGlamHer@gmail.com
Woman, A Wife of Wisdom... By Apostle Denise Chase
I used to think that I would never be married because that is what I was told when I got pregnant out of wedlock. However, even though that is what was spoken to me and over me, something on the inside of me would not allow me to believe it or accept it because I still had a desire to be married. I never saw myself as just a “girlfriend”. I always envisioned myself as a “wife”. As all little girls do, I dreamed of having a husband and kids. Living the “American Dream”. Involved in family outings and gatherings, etc. And although there was a glitch in my vision by my teenage pregnancy, my dream never died. As I moved on with my life and began my journey with Jesus, I began my process of preparation to be married. The process started with me setting myself in agreement with God and allowing Him to MAKE ME OVER. Because I had a child out of wedlock, the enemy taunted me with thoughts of failure and shame. But I pressed passed the lies of the enemy to embrace the truth of what God said and purposed for me. As I stated earlier, the first lie that I killed was the stigma that I was not a wife. I refused to settle for anything less than what God had for me. Anyone that pursued me but did not have a commitment in view, I quickly dismissed. When I met my “would be husband”, God set me up! At the time my mother, sister, myself and our children were on our way to spend the Christmas Holiday with my brother in Indiana. We had not seen him in almost 2 years. We were excited. However, I had a stirring in my spirit that there was more to our trip than just seeing my brother. As we drove on our way, the Lord began to deal with me and tell me that there was an assignment He was sending me to do as I am on vacation. I said yes Lord. Now, I have to tell you that at this particular time I WAS NOT INTERESTED in having a relationship. I was coming out of a traumatic situation (I’ll tell this story another time) and I just was not ready to be involved with anyone. So, I told God, “Lord, I will do whatever you want me to do, BUT, I am not interested in meeting anyone, so please keep me covered from being approached by anyone trying to show any interest in me”. “It’s just YOU (GOD) and me”. Well, upon arrival, we were excited to see my brother and vice versa. We got settled in for the night to prepare for dinner the next day at my brother’s “girlfriend’s” house. Christmas Morning we arise, get dressed, my brother picks us up from the hotel and to the house, we go. We get there, meet and greet everyone, etc. It’s smelling really good, so of course, I’m sitting there like when is dinner, lol. However, I sit and wait patiently, while guests and other family are still arriving. I’m like Lord ok, who do you want me to minister to? Suddenly, my “would be husband” walks through the door. My brother introduces all of us and immediately the Spirit of the Lord says, “I want you to minister to him”. I say yes Lord. Well after sitting and talking, playing games, eating, etc. the plan was for those that wanted, to go bowling after dinner. But, Y'all know how we do after we eat…. Everyone was full, sleepy and lazy. But not me. I still wanted to go. After all, I was in a place I had never been before, so I wanted to see the sights. Well as it would be, it ended up being only myself and my “would be husband” going bowling. What a setup right? As we rode to the bowling alley I got to know more about him, and he about me. I had already determined that he would be a “great friend”. As for a husband he was “NOT MY TYPE”. Fast forwarding and getting to the meat of this article. We met in December, got married in June and have been married 24 years. Still in love and enjoying fulfilling our God-purposed mission and ministry. In 24 years of marriage, becoming a Proverbs 31 woman has been an ongoing process. Let me tell you, I had no idea what a Proverbs 31 woman was and wasn’t sure I wanted to be one because from what I had heard of the Proverbs 31 woman, they did not exist. So, I was a little apprehensive when God spoke to me to study Proverbs 31. I thought God (at first) was punishing me for not being like the Proverbs 31 woman. But to the contrary, He was answering my prayer of making me a woman of wisdom. I had to repent and pray and ask God to remove from me the erroneous teachings I had received so that I could receive understanding and revelation as He taught me. For me, being a Proverbs 31 woman is a daily lifestyle. It makes me proud to know that I am loved,
appreciated, respected and that what I contribute to my family is celebrated. I enjoy being a support to my husband, children, and grandchildren. I get joy when I cook meals for them, spend time with them and know that they feel the same. Sharing my life experiences, wisdom and insight in helping them to learn and know that there is more than one way to deal with life situations is very fulfilling. Being a shoulder to cry on, a comforter, an encourager to my family means a lot for us all. I’m glad that my husband, after a long day of working is elated to come home to me and tells me that seeing me is the “highlight” of his day. In a day and time where divorce, separation and extramarital affairs are at an all-time high, I thank God that I have a solid relationship with my husband and we share the same thoughts and feelings of how important commitment really is. Even being able to share our stories of overcoming the challenges we have faced with other couples is rewarding. I think that many women get the wrong understanding that a Proverbs 31 woman is a “perfect woman”. A woman with no flaws, that doesn't make mistakes, that has everything all together, etc. (such as I did). So, they shy away from giving themselves wholly to relationships because of their fear of “not doing everything right”. I have learned that the true essence of being a Proverbs 31 woman is being true to herself and her family. Being submissive to the Will of God and allowing Him to lead her in being all that He has created her to be, she desires to be and that her family needs. For me, living daily as a Proverbs 31 woman is my greatest life accomplishment. I say this because, for my family, it established a new legacy. Coming from a home of dysfunction and divorce, it was important to me to not allow this generational curse to continue to plague my lineage. I decreed that my children WOULD NOT experience the same thing I did growing up. I wanted them to know love and that marriage is right and can work. Becoming a Proverbs 31 woman has helped me to accomplish this goal. Being a Proverbs 31 woman has also taught me that being a good wife to my husband goes far beyond the age old saying of “doing my wifely duties”, but that, what I bring to the relationship is just as important as what he brings and that getting past our differences, mutually respecting one another and working together, there is NOTHING we cannot overcome. Graciously submitted, Apostle Denise Chase a.k.a. “THE BREAKER” Empowering, Encouraging and Equipping women to break cycles of negativity and embrace the freedom to become the Designer’s Originals they were created to be. Founder and COO of Know Your Worth Empowerment Group, LLC
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It’s finally going to happen. My girlfriends from college are coming to visit for the weekend. We haven’t seen each other in about 5 years since Sasha passed from breast cancer. Everyone has been so busy with their careers and family that we haven’t slowed down enough to get together. I really miss my girls. We have been through so much together and Sasha would be ecstatic about our weekend. She was the trip planner and kept us all together. The five of us were a force to be reckoned with back in the day! Since I’m still the single one and just bought a house, I thought it would be a perfect opportunity for us to reunite. The brunch I have prepared is going to highlight some of our most favorite times we have spent together. My sunroom is going to be the perfect spot to host our brunch. It has eight windows surrounding it in a semi-circle and the sunlight is going to be breathtaking. I have a dark, cherry wood table that seats six with lilac chair cushions. Purple is my favorite color. There is also a matching couch and two wicker chairs. On my table, I have a fresh bouquet of lavender roses, lavender waxflower, purple limonium and rich green salal. I just bought a set of white rectangle plates trimmed in platinum. I folded the lilac linen napkins so that the purse shaped menus would fit right in it. Tanya loves purses. She has an entire closet full of purses. The last time we were at her house we all took a purse and she never missed it…LOL! Sasha fussed at us but she got one too. To top it off everyone has their name in pink glitter die cut letters placed on top of the napkins. I did this for Renee, who has always been the over-the-top friend who wants everything personalized. While we are waiting on everyone to arrive, our appetizer is going to be Cajun shrimp and grits served in martini glasses. The beverage will be mimosas. I have to tell you this story. After our college graduation, we went to the Bahamas as a gift to ourselves. Trisha was in charge of making the mimosas. Instead of putting the traditional champagne, she put strawberry vodka. Needless to say, we were a little tipsy. Thank God, we were only at a condo we rented out. She claimed she didn’t know that champagne went in the drink. We never let her make the drinks after that. Lisa made the bomb Cajun shrimp that weekend. We haven’t had any better since then so I hope mine pass the test. The brunch I’ve created will be a family style buffet of all our favorite foods. They will be totally shocked to know that I actually cooked it. There were always getting me to cook stuff for them but I didn’t always feel like it. This weekend I’m going all out for them. Every item on the menu has a story behind it. I remember our sophomore year we snuck to Mardi Gras and didn’t tell our parents. Well, it was the first time that Sasha and Lisa had beignets. They thought it was the best thing since sliced bread. Everywhere we went, they ordered a beignet. It’s going to be an emotional weekend without Sasha but we are going to have fun and enjoy each other. It’s been a long time coming! I also put little goodie bags in their rooms of the things that I love about each of them the most. The one thing that we will have together is a pink ribbon charm bracelet in memory of our Sasha. I have a wonderful
weekend planned for us that includes a much-needed spa trip. Trisha has two-year-old twin boys and doesn’t get a break so I know she will appreciate it the most. I will probably have to drag her out. After that, we will go to our private Paint & Sip session, since Renee and Lisa have both mentioned on the phone several times about how much they would love to go but don’t have the time. What is my special gift you may be wondering? Just to be with my girls again is all I need. It will be the perfect housewarming gift. What more can a girl ask for? Here is our menu: Ham, Cheese & Spinach Puffs Cinnamon Apple French Toast Casserole Million Dollar Bacon Sausage & Hash Brown Balls Fresh Fruit Tart Beignets
- And Now For The Recipes -
Ham Cheese & Spinach Puffs Makes 8:
2 sheets puff pastry (homemade recipe here) 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 cup (240ml) warm milk 1 pinch of salt Freshly cracked pepper, to taste Ground nutmeg (optional) 1/2 lb (220g) cooked ham, diced 2 cups fresh spinach, rinsed and chopped 1 cup Swiss cheese, grated
DIRECTIONS 1. Cut the puff pastry sheets into 5-inch (13cm) squares. Set aside in the refrigerator. Pre-heat your oven to 400°F(200°C). 2. For the béchamel sauce: Melt butter over medium heat in a saucepan. Add flour and salt; cook, stirring frequently until the mixture becomes pale golden with a slightly nutty aroma. 3. Pour warm milk in 2 steps, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon and whisk until smooth. Cook the mixture, stirring constantly along the bottom of the saucepan, until boiling, about 7 minutes. 4. Reduce heat to low. Simmer gently until sauce thickens, about 10 minutes. If you still have lumps, use your immersion blender! 5. Stir in spinach and cook for 1 minute. Add ham and cheese and stir well. Set aside. 6. Arrange the puff pastry squares on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Dollop 1 or 2 tablespoons of the béchamel mixture top with grated cheese and close the pockets by folding the corners on top. 7. Make an egg wash using an egg and 1 coffee spoon of cold water. Brush the puff pastry and bake in the oven for 20 minutes, until puffed and golden. Serve immediately with a crisp salad. (Source: http://www.eatwell101.com/ham-cheese-spinach-puffs-recipe)
OVE RNIGH T C INNA M ON AP P L E BAKE D F RE NCH TOAS T CA S S E ROLE YIELD: ABOUT 12 SERVINGS
INGREDIENTS: C AS S ER OLE 1 lb loaf Sourdough Or French Bread, cut into chunks 3 cups (326g) chopped apples (2 large apples) 8 large eggs 2 cups (480ml) milk (whole or 2%) 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy whipping cream 1/2 cup (104g) sugar 1/4 cup (36g) light brown sugar, unpacked 2 tsp vanilla extract 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon S TR EUS E L TOP P IN G 3/4 cup (98g) all-purpose flour 3/4 cup (169g) firmly packed brown sugar 1 tsp cinnamon 1 1/2 tsp apple pie spice 1/2 cup (112g) salted butter, cut into pieces
DIRECTIONS: 1. Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish. 2. Combine the bread chunks and chopped apples and lay in an even layer in the bottom of the dish. 3. In a large bowl, whisk together the remaining ingredients, minus the streusel, and pour evenly over bread. Cover the casserole and store in the fridge overnight. 4. When ready to bake the casserole, preheat the oven to 350°F (176°C). 5. Bake the casserole for about 35-40 minutes. 6. While casserole bakes, in another bowl, combine the dry ingredients for the streusel. Add the butter and mash into the dry mixture until it forms a crumbly mixture. 7. Remove the casserole from the oven and crumble the streusel over the top of the casserole. 8. Continue baking casserole for about 5 minutes, or until the streusel is melted over the top. 9. Serve the casserole warm with syrup. (Source: http://www.lifeloveandsugar.com/2016/09/26/overnight-cinnamon-apple-baked-french-toastcasserole)
MILLION DOLLAR BACON Serves: 12 Ingredients 1lb thick cut bacon 6 tablespoons brown sugar 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes Instructions 1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350° and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. (You can sub aluminum foil if you don’t have any parchment paper lying around.) 2. Sprinkle the bacon with about half of the brown sugar. 3. Sprinkle on the red pepper flakes, cayenne and cracked black pepper. 4. Sprinkle the rest of the brown sugar on the top and then give it a good pat all over. Think of it as a rub that’s going to coat your bacon in candy-like goodness. You don’t really have to worry about coating the reverse side because as the bacon cooks, the sugary coating will run under it and coat the other side of the bacon, too. 5. Bake for 20 – 30 minutes, until it reaches your desired crispiness. Done and done! (Source: http://thesweetestoccasion.com/2014/03/million-dollar-bacon-recipe/)
Sausage & Hash Brown Balls Makes approximately 60
1 lb hot sausage, uncooked 8 oz cream cheese, softened 1 1/2 cups Bisquick 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded 1/2 (30oz) package frozen shredded hash brown potatoes (about 4 cups)
Preheat oven to 400F. Mix all ingredients until well combined. (I use my KitchenAid mixer with the dough hook attachment) Roll into 1 1/2-inch balls. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until brown. Makes approximately 60. Sausage balls may be frozen uncooked. If baking frozen, add a few minutes to the baking time. (source: http://www.plainchicken.com/2014/12/sausage-hash-brown-balls-football-friday.html? utm_content=buffer1e472&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook.com&utm_campaign=buffer&m=1)
Beautiful Breakfast Tart Serves 6
Ingredients 1 1/2 cup old fashioned oats 1 cup mixed chopped nuts and seeds (I used almonds, pistachios, hazelnuts, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds) 5 Tbsp butter, melted 1/4 cup honey 1 tsp vanilla extract about 3 cups Greek yogurt, coconut yogurt, or almond yogurt (If your yogurt is loose, strain it first) assorted sliced or whole fruit for topping Instructions 1. Set oven to 325F 2. Mix the oats, nuts and seeds, melted butter, honey and vanilla together in a bowl until everything is thoroughly coated. 3. Press the mixture into a greased 10" tart pan with a removable bottom (or a pie plate). Use a measuring cup to help press the granola evenly across the pan and up the sides. 4. Bake for about 15 minutes, until lightly golden. Let cool. You can make the crust ahead if you want to and fill it the next morning just before serving. 5. Fill the tart with Greek yogurt, and smooth out evenly. 6. Arrange the fruit on top. Serve immediately. (Source: https://theviewfromgreatisland.com/beautiful-breakfast-tart/)
French Quarter Beignets Yields: About 3 Dozen
Ingredients
1 ½ cups lukewarm water ½ cup granulated sugar 1 envelope active dry yeast 2 eggs, slightly beaten 1 ¼ teaspoons salt 1 cup evaporated milk 7 cups bread flour ¼ cup shortening Nonstick spray Oil, for deep-frying 3 cups confectioners' sugar
Directions Mix water, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl and let sit for 10 minutes. In another bowl, beat the eggs, salt and evaporated milk together. Mix egg mixture to the yeast mixture. In a separate bowl, measure out the bread flour. Add 3 cups of the flour to the yeast mixture and stir to combine. Add the shortening and continue to stir while adding the remaining flour. Remove dough from the bowl, place onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth. Spray a large bowl with nonstick spray. Put dough into the bowl and cover with plastic wrap or a towel. Let rise in a warm place for at least 2 hours. Preheat oil in a deep-fryer to 350 degrees F. Add the confectioners' sugar to a paper or plastic bag and set aside. Roll the dough out to about ¼ - inch thickness and cut into 1-inch squares. Deep-fry, flipping constantly until they become a golden color. After beignets are fried, drain them for a few seconds on paper towels, and then toss them into the bag of confectioners' sugar. Hold bag closed and shake to coat evenly. (Source: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/paula-deen/french-quarter-beignets-recipe-2014039)
Saluting the Bond of Marriage w/Food & Fantasy With Chef Veah Are you looking to rekindle the spark in your marriage? Or are you looking to find a romantic and sexy way to present breakfast to your mate? Allow Veah, co –owner and cook at Two Sisters Catering to give you some food for thought. What is a sure fire way to have a sexy start to your Saturday morning breakfast? Create an experience your spouse will not soon forget. If you two have always discussed taking a trip of a lifetime yet have not made time or had the finances to go there, create a scene in your home from your bucket list destination. My husband and I always talk about going to one of the Caribbean Islands to look at that beautiful blue water and stick our feet in the sandy beaches while taking in a landscape that is incomparable. Let’s start with the visual. Find a space in your home that you can transform a balcony, office or spare room. Purchase ahead of time the items you will need. In my case that would be a drop cloth, sand, sea shells, photos or ornate full-length body towels and a couple Adirondack chairs. From your home pull in your breakfast table and a table cloth along with your “good dishes” including the flatware and glasses. The evening before when my husband has gone to sleep I would begin working on my canvas. My spare room is painted two shades of blue so that is my back drop and can keep the feeling of the sea forever present. I would place the drop cloths on the floor and anchor them with balloon weights and poor my sand all over the floor once I have the sand level, I would place sea shells in different places on the floor. The Adirondack chairs would be placed in the far right corner with two of the scenic beach towels on them along with a drink table between the two. I would place two glasses with beverage napkins on the table and an ice bucket. Now I would place the breakfast table in the center of the room with the table cloth and then set the table with the proper place settings and glassware. Lastly, I would place the artwork on or against the walls to complete the look and as you know no setting is complete without music, so I would create a playlist of music that will set the mood and keep us both engaged in the fantasy. Alright, now that you have set the stage to create a lasting new memory let’s talk food. What is sexier than looking at a beautiful plate of food prepared with love for your mate. So, I would have shopped for these items ahead of time and done some prep the night before so that it does not take forever to get this meal on the table. Let’s start with our main protein which would be two boneless Angus Ribeye steaks, that I would create a herb compound butter to finish them off with after cooking. The remainder of the meal will be buttermilk biscuits with homemade syrup; breakfast potatoes made from Yukon Gold potatoes, bell pepper and onions (that can be baked or cooked on the stove stop) along with scrambled eggs that contain sautéed spinach, bell peppers and herbs for flavor, fresh fruit sundae, orange juice, water and cranberry juice. Now, ladies, you have to give your husband one other visual, you. You should finish cooking with enough time to jump in the shower and change into the early morning, for his eyes only attire. What is that? A new piece of lingerie, with a sheer gown. When he awakes and goes to take his morning shower, you should hang on the back of the bathroom door lounge wear for him with a note attached that reads, “Put these on and meet me in the spare bedroom”. When he walks in say. “Good morning my love and welcome to the Caribbean, are you ready for breakfast?”
Breakfast is now served and your morning should be off to a wonderful start. Ladies it does not take much to create a new memory. All that limits us is our imagination. Now for the Recipes: Boneless Angus Ribeye Steak - create a quick 20-minute marinade that you can place in a bowl, Ziploc bag or casserole dish (1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, mix until the brown sugar is totally dissolved). - season blend of salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, parsley (set aside, to be added to the steak after marinating and before placing it in the cast iron skillet or on top of the grill plate). - remove the steaks from the marinade and drain all of the marinade from the steak, place them on a cutting board, season both sides of the steak with your seasoning blend and gently pat the seasoning into the steak while the skillet or grill plate is heating up. - If using a cast iron skillet: preheat the oven to 450 degrees with cast iron skillet in the oven, once the oven reaches temp, remove the cast iron skillet and place 1 tablespoon of olive oil in the skillet then the steak, sear on both sides for 4 minutes per side, put the skillet back in the oven for 8 minutes and then remove, tilt the skillet as you place the compound butter in and scoop the butter onto the steaks for 1-3 minutes then place back in the oven for an additional 7-8 minutes. Remove and let rest 5 minutes, top the steaks with the remaining browned butter in the skillet. - If using a grill plate: heat the grill plate on medium-high heat and place ¼ stick of butter on the surface per steak, brush with olive oil before placing the steak on it, sear the steak on one side for 2 minutes and rotate 90 degrees to get cross-hatch pattern on your steak after it cooks an additional 2-3 minute on the same side flip the steak and repeat the same process you did on the other side (you will have a medium rare steak but if you want it a little more well-done cook for 3-4 minutes more per turn and then remove to rest). - Remember steak will continue to cook after it has been removed from the heat. Breakfast Potatoes - If you are baking: peel, wash, dry thoroughly and dice potatoes. Season with salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic, thyme, parsley and cayenne pepper and set to the side. Then you will wash and dice red and green bell peppers along with onions (cut all the same size). Mix the diced vegetables with the diced potatoes and place in a casserole dish. Bake in the oven at 450 degrees for 20 minutes (check on the doneness, each oven cooks differently). - If you are cooking on the stove top: peel and dice the potatoes, rinse them, place in a stock pot and lightly salt the potatoes, put just enough water to cover the potatoes. Boil the potatoes for 15 minutes. Pour all the water off. Season the onions and bell peppers with onion powder, garlic, thyme, parsley and cayenne pepper then sauté in a skillet for approximately 4 minutes. Toss the potatoes in with the sautéed vegetables and cook for an additional 5-8 minutes depending on how soft you want your potatoes. Eggs - On your stove top: add enough margarine to cover the surface of the skillet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the bell peppers add the spinach once they are a little tender add the eggs along with your favorite spices, cook gently on a medium high to medium low heat using your heat safe spatula to move the eggs around to make sure they cook thoroughly and do not burn. Fruit Sundae - Margarita Glass: place 2 tablespoons of vanilla yogurt in the bottom of the glass - Add your favorite fruit (ex. diced pineapple, cantaloupe, honey dew, watermelon, grapes or tangerine segments) and add another table spoon of vanilla yogurt and top with a cherry