Natural Woman Magazine 18th Edition Fabulous Over 40 Cincinnati

Natural Woman Magazine* Fabulous Over 40 www.asknaturalwoman.com

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Azizah Nubia Editor in Chief

Tammarah Overton Chief of Beauty & Fashion Gidget Hunter Allen of GIDGETImages Head of Photography Shanell Bowles Russel Beauty Director Vernell Dillingham Head of Video & Production Phillip Hepfinger Video & Production Trazana Staples Environment Contributor

Victoria Gaskins Health / Fitness Contributor Zephanie Garrett Relationship Contributor Nikita Anderson Make Up Artist Fabulous Over 40 Features Photography by: Vernell Dillingham

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Words from the editor 6 Ask Natural Woman 7 Time to Think Different Ladies 10 Victoria's kitchen 13 Get Fit 19 Composting 101 21

Community Spotlight 22 Fabulous Over 40 24 Brains & Beauty: Black Onxy 32 Beauty Tips by Shanell 34

Houston Fashion Week 35 Unique Melodies 37 Fashion Spotlight 38 ABW Productions 40

*Courtesy of TeKay Design

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The cover shot for Fabulous Over 40 Cincinnati the 18th edition of Natural Woman Magazine was shot at Marriott Courtyard in Covington, Ky. This issue features 5 women (Aretha Chapman, Barbaranne Irving, Khrys Styles, Nichole J Means, & Shelly Mathewis) Natural Woman honor these women because of their courage & determination in pursuing their goals and living a life that allows them to be a source of inspiration to women around the world.

Photography by: Vernell Dillingham MUA by Glamorous Faces : Shanell Bowels Russell & Nikita Robinson

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The Fabulous over 40 Cover Wardrobe was provided by The Inspire Salon & Boutique of Cincinnati, Ohio. The Inspire Salon & Boutique houses designs from O Sew Couture and Chosen 4 You To learn more information or to order your Fabulous over 40 Gown please call 513-5415700 or visit them on their FB page Here Dresses Range from $25 o $300

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Wow this is the 18th Edition of Natural Woman Magazine and my has it been a journey.

Looking back to when we first started we have come along way to get here.

It's an amazing feeling to know that Natural Woman has made other women feel good about themselves, because that has been our mission from the very beginning of Natural Woman's conception.

This issue represents many things for me 1.) It show our growth as a brand, 2.) We had the opportunity to feature 5 amazing women who inspire so many just with their presence.

3.) This issue represents sisterhood. The bonds made while putting this project together reflect the message that we spread and that is being united as one.

I hope you find the message that Natural Woman has for you, its our mission to inspire you to be your Natural Self and through our pages we hope to help you get to her.

Thank you for taking the journey with us!

Azizah Nubia @Azizah Nubia

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Photography by Gidget Hunter Allen of GIDGETImages

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Great question Tiara! There are plenty of ways to boost your immune system during the winter months.

On the next page you will see 5 powerful natural herbs you can use to boost your immunity. And remember that your immune system is your bodies defense system.

Although food and herbs can help you to stay illness free. The best way to prevent cold & flu is to drink plenty of high frequency waters, get plenty of rest, and most of all keep a positive state of mind and vibration.

Send Naural Woman your natural health, beauty or hair question. And you may see I in our net upcoming issue. Visit www.asknaturalwoman.com Natural Woman Magazine* Fabulous Over 40 www.asknaturalwoman.com

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Winter is approaching fast and tis’ is the season of the common cold. But lucky for you Natural Woman has found 5 amazing herbs that can prevent the common cold and leave you and your family cold free all winter.

Elderberry 

Peppermint

Cinnamon

Helps relieve nasal congestion



Anti Inflammatory



Anti viral



Immune Booster



Lowers Fever

Increase blood circulation



Boost Immune System

Antiviral & Antibiotic



Lessens Chest Congestion



*Relieve Chronic Cough

 

Use as a tea on tincture.

Thyme Garlic 

Boost Immune System



Antiviral

Take as a supplement.

Chew on a garlic clove Or mince clove and mix it with honey for easy consumption.

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Fights Congestion and mucus in chest



Relieves Coughing

Take as an essential oil by adding a few drops to you bath water. Or use as a dried herb for tea, or add to food.

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Interviewed by Azizah Nubia

Are Women today more masculinized in our thinking? Have we forgotten what it really means to be a woman? Well according to the Tantric Mongoose Shantam Nityama most of us have. “The woman has completely lost her voice on this planet.” History tells us of many ancient Gynocentric civilizations that honored and respected the feminine principal. We were upheld as the most sacred thing on the planet because we are the bringers of life.

Now we live in a time where we are fighting to be heard, but are we hearing ourselves?

I had an opportunity to speak with the Shantam Nityama the Tantric Mongoose, who’s mission is to shake up the insanity we have accepted to be normal and return us to a new ancient way of thinking. “Basically from everywhere that I have gone the men are men and the women are too.

Meaning for the most part many women have adopted a strong male approach to life. They are functioning from a more masculine psychology than a feminine psychology”, Shantam shared with me during our talk.

pecially women. We can create a world of order, beauty, peace and happiness. “ I really want to encourage women to stop and take a look at where you are. It is a real challenge to get a woman to hear her own voice and give volume to who she is, women are petrified of this. I also encourage that men step up and represent maleness in a totally different form as well. The men really need to become educated enough to be able to support women. If we fell to restore the feminine quality to the world humanity will not make it.”

You see we humans are composed of both masculine and feminine energy. And based upon your gender you will have more of your dominate quality. Men fall under the masculine principle of logic, reasoning, action, and being firm. Women fall under the feminine principle of intuition, nurturing, healing, and being calm. The problem is that throughout the years the feminine principle has been looked down upon for centuries. And now our planet is at a destructive phase of dysfunction, chaos and sickness. It is believed that by resurrecting the feminine principle within all things es-

“If a woman is struggling or any part of her unit is struggling , on any level it is because the woman has forgotten what it means to be a woman. A woman can manifest anything on this planet through the power of her womb. Women are so powerful that if you give her a sperm cell some food, water and leave her in a room for 9 months she would give you a fully developed little human being. A human being is made up of everything in this universe, and a woman can draw to herself all of that to her womb and birth a child. So why can’t she birth that million dollar business, or cre-

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ate a world that is filled with beauty and peace. But in order for her to get to this level she will have to change the way she is thinking about things. She can’t be upset and worried about how she looks, or if she looks too old to compete with the younger women for men.�

Shantam Nityama is a world renowned Tantric master regarded by many to be the leading authority on conscious relating and spiritual sexuality. Nityama travels extensively conducting workshops and private sessions. For information about private sessions and consultations please visit the services pages of the following website: http://www.nityama.com/ blog To purchase a demonstration DVD of Nityama conducting a session: http:// www.nityama.com/blog/nbdvd.html Please direct all other inquires for Shantam Nityama by email to:contact@nityama.com

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I’m originally a southern gal who grew up on a farm in Florida. I spent many days in the kitchen cooking with my mother and sometimes not by choice. By the time I was a teenager I had grown a passion for cooking. I try to stay true to the cooking fundamentals my mother taught me: cook with fresh, simple ingredients and put a lot of love into every dish.

pajamas and enjoying a hot bowl of soup. It warms me up from the inside out. I have shared some of my favorite soup recipes and I hope they bring you as much joy and nourishment as they bring me.

Since moving to Cincinnati I have a different view of soup. In Florida it was too hot to truly enjoy this dish. I’m pretty sure my mom only made two types of soup. Being here I learned there is no feeling like coming in from the cold, putting on my

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1 28oz can of peeled whole tomatoes 5 cloves of garlic in skin 1 tsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil 1 medium potato, peeled and diced ½ c sweet onion, chopped 1 tsp dried thyme leaves ¼ tsp Cajun seasoning 1 c Vegetable Stock Liquid Smoke Kosher Salt Black Pepper

Preheat oven to 350. Cut the tomatoes in half and place them on a foil-lined baking sheet, cut side up.

Be sure to leave about half your baking sheet empty.

Pour one drop of liquid smoke on each tomato.

Place garlic in a small piece of foil and fold it closed.

Place your garlic bundle on the baking sheet with the tomatoes and place in the oven for 20 minutes.

seasoning as necessary. Serve with Grilled Cheese Croutons. Yields 4 cups Grilled Cheese Croutons:

Place 4 pieces of bread on a cutting board and coat with 3 Tbsp of melted butter. Flip over 2 pieces of bread and top each with 2oz of shredded Gruyere cheese. Cover with remaining bread slices, buttered In a small bowl combine potatoes, onion, thyme, Ca- side up. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high jun seasoning, olive oil, salt and pepper. Remove the flame and place sandwiches in skillet. Cook for 3 baking sheet from the oven and add the potato mix- minutes on each side. Place sandwiches on a cutting ture to the empty side of the baking sheet. Roast the board and allow to cool for 2 minutes. Cut into croutomatoes and potatoes for 20 minutes. If necessary, ton-size pieces. You can also add turkey to this recicook longer until the potatoes are tender. pe. My favorite is Boar’s Head Blackened Turkey.

Allow vegetables to cool down for a minute or two and add tomatoes, potato mixture and vegetable stock in a food processor. Unwrap your garlic bundle and squeeze the garlic cloves out of their skin into the food processor. Blend until smooth. Add your mixture into a pot and heat it to a low boil. Adjust Natural Woman Magazine* Fabulous Over 40 www.asknaturalwoman.com

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Turkey and Rice Stew

Make use of your Thanksgiving Day leftovers 3 ½ c Turkey, cooked and cut into bite-size pieces 6 ½ c Turkey Stock 2 Celery Stalks, chopped 4 Carrots, chopped 1 small Onion, chopped 1 Tbsp unsalted butter 1 c uncooked Jasmine Rice 1 Tbsp dried Marjoram 1 tsp dried Thyme 1 tsp ground Cumin ½ tsp Cajun Seasoning 2 Bay Leaves 1 Rosemary sprig In a stock pot heat butter. Stir in onions, celery and carrots and cook until tender, about 6 minutes.

Add turkey, stock, rice, marjoram, thyme, cumin, Cajun seasoning, bay leaves, rosemary. Bring to a boil and simmer for 30 minutes or until rice is tender. Remove bay leaves and rosemary sprig, adjust salt and pepper if necessary.

Yields 8 cups

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5 Tbsp butter ¼ c all-purpose flour ½ small onion, diced 2 c half and half 3 c chicken stock 2 bay leaves ¼ tsp nutmeg ¼ tsp garlic powder 2 carrots diced 4 c broccoli florets

2 c grated sharp cheddar cheese 1 c grated extra sharp white cheddar cheese Kosher salt Black Pepper

Directions: Over medium heat melt butter in a soup pot. Saute onions in the butter until tender, about 5 minutes. Whisk in flour and sauté until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Gradually whisk in half and half until smooth.

Add chicken broth, bay leaves, nutmeg, garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 20 minutes. Stir frequently.

Add broccoli florets and carrots and cook until tender, about 20 minutes.

Pulse half of the soup in a blender. Add blended soup back into the pot.

Add both cheeses to the soup and stir. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Yields 8 cups.

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Cardio Smarter Not Harder:

Week 3

3 min run, 2 min walk (4x)

Cardio is an important part of any fitness plan. It’s a way to burn calories and help you lose weight. Even if you’re not trying to lose weight cardio is still important. It reduces you risk of heart attack, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and diabetes. My favorite cardio routine is interval running (short periods of intense running followed by a short recovery period).

It’s a more effective way to train than exercising at one intensity level.

Week 4

5 min run, 2 min walk (3x)

Week 5

6 min run, 2 min walk (3x)

Strength Training is Your Friend:

I hear a lot of women say they don’t want to do strength training because they don’t want to lose their curves. The truth is it may enhance your curves.

Strength training fights muscle loss, bone mass loss True, running at a constant speed for a distance will (osteoporosis), reduces blood pressure and improves burn calories, but you will reach a point in which your your ability to do everyday activities. weight loss can flatline as your body adjusts to your If you haven’t worked out in a while ease your way exercise routine. Listed below is an example of an interval cardio schedule. You can adjust this schedule into a strength training routine. Begin by training 2 days a week, taking at least one day of rest between to fit you by increasing your speed or incline. your training days. Start with 2-3 exercises for lower and upper body and 1-2 core exercises. If your routine becomes too easy you can increase reps, add Interval Cardio by Week (example) weights and additional exercises as you muscles beWeek 1 1 min run, 2 min walk (7x) come stronger.

Week 2 2 min run, 2 min walk (5x) The most important thing is to perform these exercisNatural Woman Magazine* Fabulous Over 40 www.asknaturalwoman.com

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es properly. Not maintaining the correct form can result in injury. Always maintain your form!

Stretch It Out: So you just finished your exercise routine, but you’re not through. Stretching is a vital part of a well-rounded fitness regimen. Exercise without stretching makes your muscles shorter and tighter which results in decreased circulation, decreased flexibility, an increased risk of tendonitis and an increase in aches and pain.

Before stretching make sure your muscles are warmed up.

Do not stretch while your muscles are “cold”. If you stretch before your workout do a 5-10 minute warm up (walking or light jogging). Be sure to stretch all your major muscle groups, particularly those involved in your workout routine.

Stretching with poor technique can make the stretch less effective and can even cause injury. Maintain form, breathe into your stretches and hold them for 20-30 seconds.

It’s never too late to start a workout routine. Your personal health is one of the best investments you can make. Remember to workout according to your abilities not your goals and always consult a physician before beginning any exercise regimen. (End)

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By: Trazana A. Staples, MELP

According to EcoWatch.com, in 2011, more than 36 million tons of food waste was generated, with only 4 percent diverted from landfills and incinerators for composting. In a recent report, from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, it stated that food scraps and yard waste make up 20 percent to 30 percent of what we throw away and are the largest category of municipal solid waste going into landfills and incinerators.

In addition, food scraps in landfills take up space and release methane gas, a potent greenhouse gas. If every household composted their food waste, fruits and vegetable, there would be a tremendous decrease in landfills and ultimately reduce the carbon emissions substantially.

Everyone can compost whether you live in a house or an apartment. It is magical to see food waste turn in to compost that can be used in gardens, house plants, and extra nutrients for the soil, and everyone young and old can participate. Composting also teaches “G.R.A.C.E” (Gardening, Recycling, Advocacy, Composting, Education). So today, no more excuses for those living in apartments or those living in houses…Get to composting and happy GRACE! (end)

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By: Azizah Nubia

Nella Pearl Asante, affectionately known as “Ms. Pearl has been a pillar for her Nashville community.

A woman of courage and vast wisdom, Asante surrounds herself with family, particularly children and elders, and always has positive and constructive words to offer to those who need them. “I’ll tell anyone not to let being poor or afraid stop you from reaching your dream. Strive for success through putting structure into your life.”

With the help of Nashville Food Advocates, family, neighbors, and friends, Ms. Pearl birthed Brooklyn Heights Community Garden in 2011. The creation of this garden stemmed from a deep need for the community to get back to its roots of connection between the senior citizens and the youth to rebuild and reconstruct self-awareness, self-pride, and selfesteem. In addition to providing team building opportunities, the garden ultimately promotes the teaching of sustainability and healthy living and the nurturing of plants and human beings.

Ms. Pearl enthusiastically explains how her community gardens are positive forces in the neighborhoods where they are located. She

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touts that these gardens attract people who live in surrounding areas including Goodlettsville, Hendersonville, Franklin, and Mt. Juliet. Community gardens tend to bring together diverse groups of volunteers, in addition the people who reside near the garden locations. Nutrition advocates, Food Advocates Team and Foodscape, were on hand to assure a hearty crop when the gardens were planted. The Davidson County Sheriffs Department provided twenty workers to help prepare the lots for the gardens and Lutherans Church Missionaries brought twenty volunteers to help build raised plant beds and a shed.

People have selflessly given their time, energy, and resources to bring the Brooklyn Heights Community Garden locations to fruition.

Not only do the gardens yield nutritious food, they also provide activities to foster intergenerational bonding and educational experiences. Grandparents, parents, and Natural Woman Magazine* Fabulous Over 40 www.asknaturalwoman.com

children from toddlers to teens have learned, planted, weeded and harvested together. High school and college students have added new skills in soil preparation and conservation to their growing wealth of knowledge and expertise. “The work is … overwhelmingly rewarding when I look into a child’s face and see how proud he/ she was to plant seeds, then see their … seeds pushing up through the earth, reaching up to the sun, [and] becoming a vegetable … The whole process is indeed a miracle.”

“Ms. Pearl”, has always been able to take a little and create plenty. As a result, she and her family received the 2014 Family of the Year Award for Charity, given by the Consortium of Doctors, Inc. She has also won numerous other awards, including the 1999 Dr. R. H. Boyd Minority Business Achievement Award.

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Natural Woman Magazine all over the country for Fabulous Women over 40, who not only have beauty, but women who are accomplished and have overcome many obstacles to get where they are today. We received many submissions from women everywhere, although we could not choose all of these Fabulous Women. Natural Woman Magazine still wanted to give them a platform to share their FABULOCITY!!

Deniece Barnes is a 45 year old radio and television personality in Nashville, TN. She began my media/broadcasting career over 20 years ago in Nashville, TN at one of Nashville’s oldest radio stations, WVOL 1470 AM “Nashville’s Heritage Station” the station where media mogul, Oprah Winfrey began her broadcasting career. Currently, she id the Co-host on The Midday Show airing daily on Cromwell Radio 102.1 FM, Nashville, TN and 101.9 FM Clarksville, TN. She has been the host of my own radio program, "DIFFERENCES Radio Magazine Show" for the last 6+ years. The program broadcasts throughout Middle Tennessee and worldwide via ustreamtv.com

Joyce Kendrick received her Juris Doctorate from Touro Law Center in 1995. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts Science and a Minor in Child and Family Studies from Stony Brook University. In February of 2011, she graduated with high honors from Ashford University with a Master of Arts in Education. She was inducted into the Golden Key International Honour Society in November of 2011 because of her outstanding academic achievements.

Are You Fabulous Over 40?

Send us your photo and a paragraph about what makes you

Joyce began her career as a Defense Attorney in the Criminal Defense Division of the Legal Aid Society in 1996. She joined Brooklyn Defender Services in 1997 as a Staff Attorney. Since 2004, she has served as the primary attorney responsible for the legal representation of their clients in Brooklyn Mental Health Court.

Joyce is married to Darryl Kendrick and is the mother of three children, She and her husband manage a nine piece band called Sugar Fabulous. and Spice (www.sugarandspiceband.com) where she also serves as the lead singer.

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When you think of Fabulous over 40 some may envision a woman with the body of a 20 year old. But Natural Woman Magazine was on quest to find women who not only exhibited beautiful features. We also wanted to highlight women who have dedicated their lives to inspire other women to live their highest good. I did not quite know what I was getting myself into when I made the decision to go through with this idea, but having spent time with Aretha Chapman, Barbaranne Irving, Khrys Styles, Nichole J. Means, & Shelly Mathewis. I then began to realize that this encounter with these women was not just a coincidence, but a destined connection meant to happen.

The stories that these women lived are stories of healing, forgiveness, courage, and second chances.

Their lives have been full of struggle and even pain,

but somehow they managed to allow those challenges to shape them into courageous, fearless, gracious and very caring women. Their mission in life is to be themselves and to let that take them as far as it can go, because they understand that although life can be a bit of a hurricane, everything has purpose.

Our mission as human being on this planet is to find what that purpose is and begin acting on it. I hope their stories will inspire all of you to continue to pursue your goals, never give up, and to be happy with being your divine beautiful self. Remember that you’re FABULOUS no matter what your age is, you were born that way.

Natural Woman Magazine* Fabulous Over 40 www.asknaturalwoman.com

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When Aretha Chapman walks in a room I guarantee everyone heads will turn, of course because she is beautiful, but Aretha has a presence to her that commands attention. Aretha is a vocalist, actress, and author of an upcoming book set to release next month. She is a part of the band Second Wind one of the biggest bands in the Midwest.

An avid believer in the law of attraction and that we create our realities, Aretha has claimed 2015 to be her year. She has already tackled her bucket list items of being on the cover of a magazine, acting in a major motion picture film; she recently was part of the film by Don Cheadle’s Miles Davis, and the Last Witch Hunter starring Vin Diesel.

One of the major obstacles Aretha had to face growing up was losing her mother at the tender age of twelve years old. Although nothing could replace the lost of a mother Aretha had her 3 older sisters to help raise her and help mold her into the woman she is today. In spite of her obstacles Aretha has made entertaining her full time job using her God given talents to make others feel good as well as doing what she loves.

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When you see Barbaranne Irving you would probably have no clue that she is 64 years old. A mother 4, IT Health Care worker, a former model coach, advocate of Domestic Violence and she even has skills as an interior decorate, she put in her new bathroom. Barbaranne has had a life full of ups and downs, but through it all she has managed to pick up all of those broken pieces and continue her path of being the Fabulous Barbaranne.

Domestic violence has played a big role in Barbaranne’s life from her being a survivor of a domestic violence relationship to having experience the murder of her daughter Cassandra or Sandy as she likes to call her and unborn grandchild. Barbaranne trusted me enough to open up to me about her scary past “My husband use to lock me in the closet on the weekends for about 6 months, and my children had to feed me food from under the door.

Those times were some of the scariest moments of my life. But nothing could take away the pain of losing a child; I’ve tried to commit suicide twice. The murder of my daughter has been the hardest thing to I had to overcome in my life.” But as you can see Barbaranne has used her pain to be a channel of healing for others. Through her community work with domestic violence Barbarannce has helped several Domestic Violence groups close judicial gap to help victims and families of domestic violence.

In addition to Barbaranne’s list of talents and skills, she recently graduated with a Masters in IT, she says she went back to school to be an example for her daughter and granddaughter. Her motto ,if I can do it so can you. Thank you Barbaranne for being so fabulous!

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What can I say about the Fabulous Nichole J. Means? Well one thing she is one of the most charming and warmest personalities I have met.

Nicole is a co-host for NXSTV Style & Fashion segment, the assistant store manager for 3 in 1 men’s fashion an upscale clothing store for men, she was former runway model she has been featured in New York Fashion Week, Hype Hair, and Essence Magazine, she is a book author of a book called The Mother: She wants to be, it’s a fictional book based on real life scenarios.

We all have stories to tell and Nichole is no exception, she has had her bouts with jealousy, and betrayal leaving her feeling that she could not trust anyone. But through her being able to share her experience through her book, she has been able to heal and move on. Now Nichole’s new motto is to Create & Be Beautiful, she wants to share knowledge of style and fashion to help women to feel beautiful. Nichole is an advocate for positive female relationship and sisterhood. In spite of her past, Nichole has learned that people only do things to hurt other because they are lacking something within their own lives. Having knowing this Nichole has had the power to forgive and through that power Nichole has been able to touch many with her grace and bubbly spirit. A true example of what a Natural Woman Fabulous over 40 represents.

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Ordained Reverend, actress, vocalist, empowerment leader and the biggest fan of the Kansas City Chiefs & Royals Shelly Mathewis knows how valuable a 2nd chance is. After loosing her mother from Breast Cancer and losing her father a short time later. Shelly found herself at 19 years old ready to say goodbye to life. She over drugged herself with medical prescription drugs and took a drive hoping that would be her last ride to free her from the pain she felt from the tragedy she experienced. But God had plans for Shelly , “I woke up and I was in the hospital, not a scratch on me and the car.”

Shelly’s life was saved and from that point on she vowed to never try and take her life again, because she finally realized that she had a job to do on this planet. God gave her a second chance because she had a reason to be here. “I’m here to be a blessing for someone”. Shelly fulfills that purpose every time she is steps on the stage, speaks in the mic, or just being Fabulous Shelly.

Shelly has also been tested to have faith in spite of the storm. Having been a 2 time cancer survivor and losing her husband to kidney failure. Shelly still sees the brighter sides of things, and believes that there is a meaning for everything. “I am not going to allow my circumstances to dictate my life. I am here to uplift and bring positivity and that’s what I will do no matter what.”

Shelly is truly an inspiration because through all of her pain she has been able to channel it into healing energy to help others, and that my friend is what being a Natural Woman Fabulous over 40 is all about.

Shelly has great things lined for 2015, she did share with me that she is working on a One Woman Show and she will be starting her PHD program in Organizational Business and Leadership specializing in Corporate Training and eLearning.

We wish much success Shelly and we are looking forward to calling you Dr. Shelly L. Mathewis.

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If you were to ask Khrys Styles who Krhys Styles is she would probably say “I couldn’t tell you”. Not because she doesn’t know who she is, but its hard to put Khrys styles into a category. “I am One Black Woman, I can’t be anybody but me.” The talented, Khrys Styles is a mother, award winning actress, radio personality, TV host for NXSTV, and the founder and creator of the K.A.S.S.I.E Project .

Delving into the world of the arts at the tender age of 4 Khrys has always been apart of the entertainment world. But life has not always been filled with glitz and glamour, Khrys started her early college years being a wife and mother. She has 3 children she has always felt that having a family structure was the most important thing for her children. Khrys later divorced and was a single mother, but this did not stop her from pursuing her goals. Khrys entered into the world of media and is still continuing to soar.

Although living her dream of being on the screen Khrys’s newest project include not only the screen but advocating for survivors of domestic abuse. After having to experience the tragic death of her best friend Cassie who was murdered by her boyfriend on December 21, 2000. Khrys has made it her mission to create a platform for survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse victims, who need to share and heal. “I believe if I would have known that Cassie was in an abusive relationship. I would have gone with her that night, but she never told me.

That’s why the K.A.S.S.I.E. Project is so important. I want people to feel safe enough to be able to share and heal.” Although the death of her best friend was tragic and painful Khrys has managed to take that energy and transmute it into a powerful vehicle to bring change to our world. This is what makes Khrys a Natural Woman Fabulous over 40. .We would also like to congratulate Khrys and the KASSIE Project for their award of $2,500 Scholarship from the Mayers on Student Philanthropy Project at NKU.

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Entrepreneur Spotlight

Interviewed by Tammarah Overton

Tammarah Overton: What inspired you to go into the natural hair care business?

Rochelle: Graham: Initially, I began documenting my natural hair journey in college with photos and videos to use as a reference point for determining the best ways to re-create my hair styles later. I was bouncing between undergraduate courses and working, so the videos made it easier for me to remember what I did to achieve different looks. As more people started inquiring about what I did to achieve different styles on my natural hair, I started creating instructional videos on my BlackOnyx77 YouTube channel to support other women as they embarked on the same path. At the time, there was a void in the market for products that addressed the hair care needs of highly textured hair.

I felt that the hair care options that were available at that time didn’t have the natural ingredients packed with healing properties and natural humectants that I needed to nurture my tresses from root to tip. Always having felt a connection with nature since my early countryside childhood with my herbalist grand-

mother in Jamaica, I decided to bring those herbalist remedies to life in my kitchen. My first product, the Essential 17 Hair Growth Oil, changed my life. This was the beginning of everything Alikay Naturals. Today, the beauty line founded by my husband and I consists of more than 60 natural and organic products that include hair care, skin care, and bath and body.

Alikay Naturals is sold in 70 salons and boutique retailers (including Be Fabulous Salon) AlikayNaturals.com, Target.com and over 100 Target stores nationwide.

Tammarah Overton: *What fears and obstacles did you have to overcome to get where you are now?

Rochelle Graham: I was never afraid of the possibility of failure. I was always confident in knowing what I wanted to do. My obstacles at first were figuring out exactly what I needed to do and what steps I needed to take to get there. we've been told "No" many times but instead of setting us back that became motivation to keep going.

Tammarah Overton: Do you believe that your are fulfilling

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your purpose?

Yes, my purpose in life has always been to serve inspire and provide for others. My initial plan was to become a lawyer, however God had different plans for me. I'm grateful that there was a change in my path. I feel that being a vlogger and brand owner has played such an important role in my overall movement for men women and children alike to embrace there natural beauty and have self acceptance.

Tammarah Overton: What products would you recommend for people who is at the stage of transiting?

to keep their hair soft and moisturized. definitely the Essential 17 Hair Growth Oil they should apply this product and do a scalp massage every night then wrap hair in a silk scarf.

Tammarah Overton: What are some of your next up coming events that you would like the Natural Woman audience to be looking out for?

Rochelle Graham: In January 2015, I will be kicking of the 7 city RISE Tour as a platform for entrepreneurial women of color to share their tips for success. Follow Alikay Naturals on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @alikaynaturals for the latest brand news, tips and giveaways.

If someone is transitioning it's vital for them to have products keep their hair moisturized while preventing shedding and breakage. The first product I would suggest would be the Alikay Natural Avocado Cream Deep Conditioner. That will help with any shedding or breakage they might experience. I would then recommend the Lemongrass Leave in Conditioner

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By: Shanell Russell

Your skin changes in your 30's but the good news is you can take more time to pamper yourself. Change your regime with these few tips for a flawless look .

display of your eyes.

You may say I've been using this foundation for years, and that maybe so. Don't change your favorite brand just look for foundation that has more moisture to keep the elasticity in your skin.

Tinted foundations no longer works...

Natural Woman Magazine promotes enhancing your natural beauty.

Let your inner you shine from the inside out!!

Be a Natural Woman More tips and questions ?

Visit us online at www.asknaturalwoman.com

Eye shadow Eye shadow creams are a no, no. The creams will Primer settle in the creases of your lids giving your eyes a Primer fills in and mask those imperfections allowing tired look and causing a less flattering effect. your makeup to glide on easier for a poreless finish. Instead opt for mineral powder with a matte finish. It will last longer and look beautiful.

Foundation.

Brows Eyebrows are so important at any age, but the easiest way to look older is to have thin eyebrows lose your brows . Don't go too thick or heavy, use light strokes to fill, in your brows to create a prominent

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*Courtesy of TeKay Design Houstonians celebrated a week of fashion and philanthropy during the annual Houston Fashion Week showcased at the JW Marriott Hotel. Notable dignitaries in attendance were Ms. Trinelle Mc Hughes-Thomas from the City of Houston, Mayor's office, Miss Houston, Miss Teen Houston, Mrs. Texas Int'l, Miss Jr. Lone Star State and Miss Teen Texas. The event spanned six days; and is produced by a group of local models, fashion photographers and style enthusiasts who are in support of Houston's local Fashion Designers. There was a silent auction of dresses created by the participating designers to help raise financial support for the National Spinal Cord Injury Association's chapter in Houston. The catwalk was wheelchair accessible; making this the first wheelchair friendly runway format for the Houston Fashion Week event.

During the awards segment, one designer, Kimma Wreh of TeKay Designs was awarded as the Best Couture Designer and Best Bridal Designer title for the "Queen of the Brides" gown collection and the "Crown Collection" of formal gowns. Kimma Wreh also won the Best Fashion Designer of the year award. The voting is based on scores by affiliate networks of the event, which includes the Houston Fashion and Beauty Chamber. TeKay's Queen of the Brides Collection is a high-end bridal line with each gown representative of a historic woman of power and social significance from different countries around the world. The line is heavily influenced by ancient Egyptian and European styles and adorned with lavish accessories. The bridal collection carries white and cream colored gowns with gold trimmings. This season the line introduces a silver ensemble into the bridal collection. The bridal gowns were created using silver pleated satin fabric inserted into a silver metallic lace, which offers women a striking appearance.

TeKay continues to expand with a new line of high-end formal gowns titled the "Crown Collection" which also showcased this

L to R: Ambassador for the National Spinal Cord Injury Association, Deborah Grayson Carpenter and Fashion Designer Kimma Wreh of Tekay Designs

season and includes looks for pageant and red carpet occasions.

The Crown Collection offers elegance with color, and was inspired by client's request for red carpet dresses." We've been working with several pageant events these past few years. Many of the contestants have utilized TeKay Designs because our dress collection is inspired by culture. Culture resonates with these ladies, and they wish to include their cultural expression into the pageant presentation to differentiate themselves from competitors. I've learned a lot about the demands for pageant winners to be glamorous since I've begun working within pageant events." Explains Creative Director, Kimma Wreh. " The need to be glamorous extends beyond the award winning moment. These ladies have philanthropic causes which they represent, and they help by enrolling financial sponsors to support their causes. With each public appearance or presentation they must bring that same level of elegance and charm to the forefront. Being elegant is an occupational requirement of the title

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holder. Pageant queens are particular about wearing unique dress designs. God forbid another woman arrives at an affair wearing the same gown as the pageant winner! TeKay Designs is available to support in creating custom gowns for these women of discerning taste." claims Kimma.

TeKay Designs has lent its efforts towards bringing community together for various charitable causes. Global fashion is often the first to expose itself and help out when tragedies strike and financial assistance is needed. The Crown Collection positions the TeKay brand within a network of pageant queens who are ambassadors to philanthropic causes. Many pageant winners have shared the lime-light with TeKay during fashion charity

events. The Houston Fashion Week event included a charitable fundraising segment that offered women with spinal cord disabilities to share the catwalk during a moment of glamour. Making this the first wheelchair friendly runway for the fashion week event. "We see that this has potential, and it's all about making all women look and feel beautiful." Explained VictorQuinteros, the event's Brand Development Director. The special guests graced the runway in wheelchairs while adorned in elegant gowns. "Hopefully, fashion designers will realize a woman can look just as good sitting in a dress as she can standing up." Explains Deborah Grayson Carpenter, who is one of the wheelchair models, and is a former contestant of the Ms. Wheelchair Texas Pageant.

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By: Tammarah Overton

life by being a mom. I would make sure home work Melody Howard is the owner and founder of Unique is complete; dinner is ready while still seeing after Melodies Located in the heart of Cleveland, Ohio Her my cliental. Sometimes I would have to close the shop earlier to make sure my family was taking care mission is to up lift every plus size woman around of. I would say the only obstacle for me is my timthe world through her love for fashion, as well as embrace their beautiful curves no matter what. You ing. Just finding the time to be a mom and run my can check her out on Instagram under Unique Melo- own business. dy and on Facebook at Melody Howard.

Tammarah Overton: What were your intentions on Tammarah Overton: Tell Natural Woman Magazine opening up Unique Melodies Boutique? about you?

Melody Howard: I want to beautify plus size womMelody Howard: I am 35 years of age with two chil- en. I notice with a lot of plus size women have self esteem issues and lack of confidence. I feel like just dren, one is 17 years old and my youngest is 8. I because you have a little meat on your bones you have worked so many medial jobs over the years can still be beautiful. In fact when they come in deand I begin to gain weight. During that time I was pending on what she is looking for I have them try it wearing a size 24 to a size 26 at my heaviest, but that never stopped my love for fashion! Over time I on and look at her. I then proceed to teach them how to stick their chest out and walk with confidid lose weight, and I begin shopping at different dence. boutiques in which I seen how nice the owners where towards me, plus the different styles of clothing. So with the support of my I decided to open up my own boutique for plus size women.

Tammarah Overton: What fears and obstacles did you have to overcome to get to where you are now?

Melody Howard: Actually I am still over coming them. The first step I had to do was rearranging my Natural Woman Magazine* Fabulous Over 40 www.asknaturalwoman.com

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Designer Spotlight **Photography provided by designer** The Wild Woman Market was created by Jasmine Elliot of Nashville, Tennessee check out her Wild Woman Line by visiting her esty account : https://www.etsy.com/listing/209295781/handmade-african-formal-dress-size-5-8? ref=shop_home_active_4

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Pictures & Photography Courtesy of ABW Productions

Andrea Fulton, president of ABW Productions, has celebrated over 30 years in the beauty industry. “As I reflect on my life and commitment to my trade, a fashion show production is a perfect testament to celebrate the talent and creativity I have witnessed for years within my community as well as continue my commitment to fundraise for programs dedicated to individuals and families affected by domestic violence and mental illnesses. “

es fashion shows, liturgical praise ensembles, and theatrical entertainment inspired by positive, uplifting music, multicultural themes and high fashion wearable art. Youth and adult models who attended the “WalkTrue” Program have been preparing for this event by attending an eight-week workshop series which encompassed: Modeling 101; learning posture, posing, and runway techniques; developing a total look with the help of fashion stylists; and behind-the-scenes instruction of The mission of ABW Productions is to show- modeling courtesy. They also learned handstitching, up-cycling garments and attended case talent premiering hair and fashion designers, models, dancers, artists, poets, vocal- many rehearsals. We visited local thrift shops and purchased fabulous trendy fashions that ists, choreographers, make-up artists, and costume designers. ABW Productions produc- will be worn on the runway.

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Local businesses volunteered their time to share information on modeling professionally, self-defense, health, nutrition, and finance. The young ladies and gentlemen benefited from being participants in our “WalkTrue” Program by learning a trade, building confidence, developing life-skills, socializing with new friends, dreaming big, and bringing a ‘vision’ to life by creating with their own hands.

Creative and visual artistry, in many forms, is a way to help heal the hearts and minds of men and women that have been devastated by domestic violence and mental illnesses. “Since I am reminded daily of the physical assault which almost took the life of my daughter, I feel the need to help families who have not been as fortunate to see their loved ones alive after they suffered abuse. I also see vividly the struggles of depression and dementia in my own family.”

Too frequently, conversation or daily news reveals how families deal with the aftermath of their loved ones decisions to take their own lives or another. With no cure insight, only treatment, people continue to suffer. Dementia, Alzheimer, bipolar disorder, depression, schizophrenia, post-traumatic stress depression, and anxiety are just a few of the disorders affecting our communities at an alarming rate.

These are not pretty words and are rarely openly discussed without shame. Please help us bring awareness and financial support to the programs for families who are suffering.

CRÈME DE LA COUTURE

FASHION * MODEL * DANCE * PRODUCTION SATURDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2014 SCOTTISH RITE CATHEDRAL 2701 NORTH 3RD STREET HARRISBURG, PA 17105

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By : Zephanie Garrett Discover what is most meaningful to you and how you want to be loved by choosing from this simple 10 binary statements. These statements may not fit your situation perfectly, but whatever seizes the essence of what is most meaningful to you will direct you to the right love language. When you know how you want to be loved it leaves you centered in the place where you can ask for it, receive it, and give it freely. It will also deepen the relationship you have with your partner and others you love.

I feel more loved when….

A. When someone tells me how great I look B. I'm with someone I love and we just hang out and do nothing C. Someone is talking behind my back and my loved one shows their loyalty to me D. Someone I love gives me a hug when I've had a rough day or for no reason at all.

I feel more loved when….

A. I hear words of encouragement from someone I love.

B. Someone I love goes to a show with me they don't normally enjoy.

C. I get a small gift I wanted but never asked for by someone I love.

D. We are out in public and I get a spontaneous kiss from someone I love.

It's more meaningful to me when….

A. I get praise from a loved one.

B. Someone I love cancels their plans just to come over to cheer me up.

C. Someone I love does what they said they would do without me asking over and over.

D. I sit next to someone I love and they put their arm around me.

I feel more loved when….

A. The one I love says "You're Perfect Just The Way It's more meaningful to me when….

You Are".

A. I hear a loved one say, "I'm so proud of you".

B. Were talking someone I love isn't on their phone B. Someone I love makes time to spend with me. constantly checking messages, social media, etc.

C. Someone I love helps me with a project.

C. Someone I love sees something is bothering me and D. I feel more connected to someone I love if they hold doesn't waste any time trying to fix it. my hand.

D. Someone I loved touches me on the hand or shoul-

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der to show their concern for me.

It's more meaningful to me when….

A. Someone I love tells me they admirer me.

B. My family and friends come over for a night of fun playing cards or whatever will keep us laughing.

C. My love one buys me an exciting gift.

D. Someone I love just gives me a hug that I haven't seen in a long time.

quiz your Love Language is Words of Affirmation: which means that when you get compliments, encouragement, love notes, or someone says you've done well in anything your heart is truly full and warm inside. You light up like you have your own personal 4th of July going on inside you. Whether you get harsh criticism or not when it comes you're emotional drained by it.

If you picked mostly B's for the statements in this quiz your Love Language is I feel more loved when….

A. Someone I love still says how special it was the first Quality Time: which means you love to spend time with the people you love more than anything. You aptime we met. preciate it when they go out of their way to be around B. Someone I love plans a quiet and romantic dinner you. You wouldn't hesitate to do the same for them. just for the two of us at home.

Just talking to them knowing they want to listen is the C. Some I love thinks enough of me to do some work best gift you could ever ask for. If you feel left out, unI'm too stressed to complete on my own. wanted, or your loved one is showing their too busy for D. I get a sweet kiss on the forehead before I fall you things will go down hill very quickly. asleep from someone I love.

It's more meaningful to me when….

A. I hear someone I love tell me how much I really mean to them.

B. I take a great getaway vacation with some of my closest friends.

C. The holidays come around that means lots of special gifts from the people I love.

D. I have my back rubbed by someone I love.

I feel more loved when….

A. Someone I love reassures me when I've made a mistake B. Someone I love respects my opinion and asks what I think.

C. My friend lets me borrow something from them.

D. I get a wonderful foot massage from someone I love.

If you picked mostly C's for the statements in this quiz your Love Language is Acts of Service: You feel loved the most when people show up for you in your time of need. When the world starts to get a little too overwhelming here comes the one you love most to take the extra load off your shoulders. They are loyal to you and are concerned for your well being and will do wants needed to make you feel better. Whether it running to the store for you, cleaning, or giving you a thoughtful gift to show your hard work is appreciated. You would blow a short fuse if no one was pitching in to help you and just watched you go down in flames without lifting a finger your way.

If you picked mostly D's for the statements in this quiz your Love Language is Physical Touch: which means you are moved by physical affection. You don't care who may see as a child you loved the hugs you use to get. There were never enough times to cuddle and as an adult you feel the same.

It's more meaningful to me when….

Walking down a busy street you don't mind a kiss or a A. I hear you'll be by my side no matter what happens playful pat on the behind from your sweetie. You want B. I spend time with the one I love doing anything. to hold hands or lock arm in arm together the physical C. I get a small token of appreciation from someone I touch is worth more than gold to you. If you link up love who really put some thought into it. with someone who doesn't do PDA or doesn't like to be D. Someone I love sneaks up behind me and puts their touched run away and never look back. arms around me.

Love Language Results If you picked mostly A's for the statements in this

If you would like more quizzes like this please share your comments on our Natural Woman Magazine facebook page or hit us up on twitter @NaturalWoman3

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