March 2012 Volume 9
Is Marriage Just For White Folks? Getting your Wardrobe “Spring Ready” 5 Thing’s Every Model Should Have in their Grab-bag
Slash Your Living Expenses
Lower Your Cholesterol
Dear Readers, I have finally finish with the move to Tuscaloosa, Alabama. I have really enjoyed our time in Texas. Moving out of state is an experience that you have to experience at least once. I have done it 5 times( so far). My husband and I have moved according to the will and provision of God. It is a calling only for a select few. I never thought I would be one of the few. It is not easy but over the course of time we have learned to adjust to the situation. Our journey is similar to that of Abraham and Sarah. Not saying we are as holy as they were but the similarity is that we were called to leave familiar surrounding to follow the purpose of God for our individual lives. Look back over your life and see if there were times when you felt God asking you to do some things out side of the box, Many times we are lead of the Lord to leave your comfort zones and venture into unknown territory. We see in the bible where he directed his followers to do this on several different occasions. Don’t be afraid to follow the leading of the Lord into unchartered territory. You will be amazed at the joys and benefits that will be made manifest unto you. Through our journeys my husband and I have met many wonderful people across this land. I am sure we would not have met them if we had not launched out into the unknown. Your out of the box experience might not be to travel across the country. It might be as simple as visiting a different church, speaking to a different group of people, shopping at a different store. Listen for the prompting of God to increase your territory and enlarge your purpose. You will enjoy the benefits.
Be Blessed, Roxanne 2
2 Editors Perspective
18 Sassy Scribe
3 Contents
20 Spring into a Break
4 Meet Our Cover Girl
22 Money Facts
6 Poetry/Prose
24 Tantalize Your Taste buds
8 Slash Your Living Expenses
26 Spring Ready Wardrobe
10 Movie Mania 28 A Woman’s Health 12 Model Grab Bag 30 From A Man’s Perspective 14 Our Sports Authority 32 Contact us 16 Time To Start Living 3
MEET LASHAI WOODS LaShai Braziel Woods is a African American Actress, Model and Singer. Born and raised in Des Moines, Iowa. She moved from the small city to Dallas, TX to explore what the big city had to offer. ******
She has appeared in many TV shows and films such as The Good Guys, Friday Night Lights, Big Rich Texas, Dallas and the Film "Chasing Shakespeare" starring Danny Glover. She loves to motivate women and help them build confidence! Love the skin your in is what she loves to always say! ****** LaShai has modeled in many fashion shows although she is considered a petite plus model standing at a confident 5'6. She has modeled for Korto Momlou of Project Runway and has worn design for Qristal Frazier also from Project Runway. ******
As a firm believer in God she believes anything is possible if you have faith and Believe. Don't Reach for the Stars. Go far beyond! This young, confident, Size Sexy lady is on the move!
www.wix.com/lashaibraziel/model-actress ******
44
5
5
Send in your Caption for this photo and be entered to win a $25 Wal-Mart gift card Send your caption to info@wefgwmagazine.com
6
Excuse Me Mr. President
Excuse Me Mr. President, I have a few things to say. First, I want you to know that for you and your family, I Pray- every day. My prayer is this, Mr. President. That when, you lay down to sleep, You will have Blessed Rest all becauseYou know Jesus, there fore you Know Peace. I pray that your family he will keep, you are after all, one of his sheep. Excuse me Mr. President, but that is not all. I have asked God to Bless you to stand and not let you fall. I want you to stand as the man God called you to be Making decisions as our Father in heaven leads thee. Excuse me Mr. President, I know that many place all this country’s problems on you. However, that is not true. You have a job that no one man will ever be able to do, I Pray for you and Your Family every night and Day, I say again I pray that God you and yours safe along the way. Excuse me Mr. President, This is election year, and I have also asked God to close the doors no man can open, and open the doors no man can close‌..
Evangelist Janice Alston February , 2012
7
How to Slash
than half full. You'll still have plenty of water to bathe.
Your Living Expenses Right Now!
money every week. Decreasing your cable/ satellite service and packing your lunch at least 3
Finding money in your budget for unexpected ex-
days a week will also reduce your living expenses
penses isn't easy. What can you do when you need
substantially. However, you can save the most
to cut your living expenses immediately? Review
money by being money-wise at the grocery store.
these strategies in case there comes a time when
Take
you need to slash your living expenses quickly.
action
Conserve lighting in your home. Think about
now
the number of times that lights are left on in 3
to
slash
or 4 rooms at a time. Use a single light when
your
you need it.
living
If you replace your most often-used lights with compact fluorescent light bulbs, you'll save
costs so you can
even more on your utilities bill.
save your cash.
Reduce your cable or satellite television services. Are you really watching all of those channels? For quick dollars, decrease your television cable or satellite services for a few months. You might find that you don't miss all those channels! Take your lunch at least 3 days a week. Doing so will cut your lunch expenditures by over 50%. That's money you'll immediately have in your pocket. Prepare and pack your lunch the evening before when you're cleaning up the kitchen after dinner. This way, your lunch will be ready to go in the morning when you are. Use less water when you shower and bathe. For the shower, set your cell phone timer for 5 minutes, which is enough time to shower and shampoo. For the bath, fill the tub no more
8
Spend less on groceries. You'll leave the store
money every week. Decreasing your cable/
with more money in your pocket when you
satellite service and packing your lunch at least 3
take advantage of the easy savings available to
days a week will also reduce your living expenses
you.
substantially. However, you can save the most money by being money-wise at the grocery store.
Buy the store brand.
Take action now to slash your living costs so
Use coupons. Many stores keep their store's
you can save your cash.
coupons right by the door where you walk in.
Known for a contagious passion for excellence, a
Purchase items that are on sale.
talent for practical business solutions, and a com-
Examine all "buy one get one free" offers to get
petence for being a motivational leader, Lorene
free food.
Collier Purcy, is professional speaker, a certified
Choose fewer snack food items.
credit, entrepreneur & personal development
Adjust your thermostat. Set the temperature on
coach, a contributing author to (2) newly released
your thermostat to one degree warmer in the
books “The Power of Change: Reinventing Your-
summer. Turn it one degree cooler if your fur-
self at Any Age” & “How to Break the Glass Ceiling
nace is operating.
Without a Hammer: Career Strategies for
On cold nights, you might even be able to ad-
Women”. Whether it’s life balance, money, career
just your thermostat to an even cooler set-
or relationship issues, Lorene has been helping
ting, as you'll be snuggled under the covers
individuals realize their true potential and acts as
for warmth.
their accountability partner, assisting them on
Reduce your fuel use. Consider the following:
how to effectively implement strategies to live the
Carpool to and from work.
life they truly deserve. You can contact Lorene at
Is work close enough for you to walk to and
info@savvychicks.me or visit her online at
from the office?
www.savvychicks.me.
Run errands on your way to and from work to save fuel costs.
Lorene Collier Purcy
If you work from home, set a goal to stay out of the car at least 4 days a week. You'll be pleasantly surprised at the money you'll save - not only from the fuel you'll be saving but also by the fact that you're not going anywhere to spend any money. Using less electricity, water and fuel will save you
9
Watch out now today's hot list is a smoky one no seriously it is. Number 1 is Ghost Rider (Spirit of Vengeance) I'm just going to go ahead and say it up front this was a good movie I loved every minute of it and you know how we all like when good triumphs over evil. So one of my favorite actors who is a very well known star from the first Ghost rider Nicholas Cage. Yes he is so the hero and the epitome of fine, pause for reaction also stars in this sequel. He is captivating as usual, as he puts these bad guys literally from hell in there place. Now Nicholas is fine but this guy Idrissa Akuna Elba is down to earth charming and he has a British accent. He recently starred in Takers, and Tyler Perry's Daddy's Little Girls. Again pausing for the reaction. Yes he is one of a kind. He can definitely be my current husband. He plays a supporting role helping Johnny Blaze (Cage) to save the life of a little boy wanted by the baddest of them all the devil. He in trying to help gains something he has always wanted friendship. The two take on the grueling task of saving the little boys life and succeed with great sacrifice. THIS IS A MUST SEE, SO
GO!!!!!!
10
Next on the list is yes you guessed it Tyler
Perry's Good Deeds lets see how many words can I use to describe the excellence of his film making. He is so multitalented he writes, he stars in his films, directs and produces, he is a one man show only if need be. This guy... as my friends says is awesome. He owns his own movie production company and still has time to write plays. Watch out ladies for whomever he decides to marry they better be all that and a bag of chips. Tyler Perry of-course is the star of this original movie about a man who has let people dictate his life. He is pretty happy go lucky and people in his life fail to realize he can think for himself. Here is the star cast: Tyler Perry staring as Mr. Deeds himself, Thandie Newton who plays a love interest yes I know , Brian White who plays his brother ironically, Rebecca Romijn, Jamie Kennedy, Eddie Cibrian, Jordenn Thompson, Beverly Johnson, Phylicia Rashad who plays his mom you know it has to be good if she's in it, Gabrielle Union who plays the initial love interest um hmm see that's why you have to go see it. Need I say more I can but I won't just that this is an exceptional movie just like anything else he puts his hands on SO GO SEE IT DUH!!!! This has been CJ's movie critiques of the month enjoy and Oh don't forget GO SEE THEM!!!!
Cheriden J. Kirven
11
toed, depends more on the client you are working
5 Thing’s Every Model Should Have in their Grab-Bag
for, however a black pair of stilettos is a must. Current fashion trends concerning the heels height suggests a heel around four inches. If you are not comfortable with that height, practice
In the three years I have worked as a plus model, I
with a three inch heel for a while and work your
have learned there are certain items a model
way up!
should always have in their bag, when attending photo-shoots, fittings or runway shows. Each cast-
ITEM TWO
ing, show or event may ask you to bring other,
The second item to make sure you have in your
specific items, however I found these five things
model grab-bag, or even wear to your gig, is a pair
to be the most commonly request items, then any
of white or flesh colored undies and strapless bra.
other. Because of this, I usually bring all five to
Some models bring spank’s as well: something
every event, just to make sure my basics are cov-
that I always have in my grab-bag! Bring other
ered.
shades and colors if you feel it’s appropriate or asked by your client.
Five Thing’s Every Model Should Have in their Model Grab-Bag
ITEM ONE Number one item to have with you in your model grab bag: black high heals. Close-toed or open-
12
ITEM THREE
Freelance writer and web designer Keri Atkins
Often at my shoots and show’s there are makeup
has always enjoyed fashion, but never thought she
artists and hairstylists provided for styling.
had a place in fashion as a plus sized woman.
However it is always a good idea to have a touch-
However in late 2008 a store manager to a local
up kit in your model grab-bag. Foundation, pow-
Lane Bryant encouraged her to look into plus
der, mascara, blush, even a few shades of eye-
modeling. Since then, plus model Keri Atkins has
shadow can be a lifesaver for sudden touch-ups or
became an advocate for size acceptance and en-
gig’s that require your own styling. Don’t forget
couraging all sizes to be represented in main-
to bring a brush, bobby pins, hairspray: even
stream fashion. Her fashion blog, Model Fashion,
a straightener and curling iron if you think it ap-
was inspired by this goal: to share fashion
propriate!
spreads, modeling tips, 'how to' styling videos and more for all sizes. Currently located in Portland
ITEM FOUR
Oregon, Keri Atkins is striving for size acceptance
Clips, needle and thread, safety pins and anything
for all, while trying to encourage a stronger indus-
else that can help with fit issue’s: a mending kit is
try in her own home town.
always a good idea to have with you in your
www.modelfashion.info
model bag. When you are at a shoot or show with
www.keriatkins.info
the designer present, they will take care of such issues. However sometimes you are using items from your own wardrobe. Bring a mending kit as even alterations are sometimes needed on your own clothes. ITEM FIVE Bring a hard copy of your modeling portfolio, a comp card, or even a business card with you to all events and gigs. This is not usually requested to gigs already booked, however you tend to meet possible future clients at events. It’s also nice to leave your client with a hard copy of your info: it encourages future rehire.
13
do everything on the court. Their strengths are getting to the inside, which means they can drive up the court, through the paint. They are also
Basketball Basics
known for their quickness. They are also depended on being good free throw shooters; they typically get fouled more because of how they do
Part II
drive the ball.
The positions of a basketball team are not nearly as complicated as football! Plus, the same 5 positions are on the floor all the
Power Forward – This player
time. The players get switched out often, but it is
often plays around the same
the same positions on the floor. For the most part,
area of the court as the Cen-
the defensive positions just guard their
ter, and are known for their
“mirror” (the person on the opposing team who is
mid range shots. They also
playing the same position) and try to prevent
play well in the mid range
them from doing their job, weather it be passing,
area of the basket. They are
dribbling, shooting, and rebounding.
excellent defenders.
Center – The center is usually is the tallest person
Point Guard – The point guard is usually the
on the team. The average center is around the 7’
team’s best ball handler. He is usually the one
mark. Of course, there are plenty of centers that
calling the plays and
are much taller than that, and some shorter than
placing his teammates
that, too. The center normally plays near the bas-
where they need to be on
ket, also called “in the paint” or “the bottom of the
the court, very similar to
key.” While on offense, the center’s responsibili-
what a quarterback does
ties are to shoot from the area very near the bas-
in football. The point
ket and to rebound balls (missed shots).
guard is often the shortest player on the team.
Small Forward – Typically, the small forward can
You will often find at the top of the point (around the curve of the 3 point line), hence the “point” guard.
14
Shooting Guard – As the name suggests, this person is the team’s best shooter and is known for making long-range shots. They also have good ball handling skills. You will often find them in the outer edges of the paint, back to 3-point line, trying to get open for a shot. Basketball
The “starters” are the 5 players who start the game. They generally are the 5 best players on the team and will play the majority of the game. When they need a small break or are in foul trouble, the “bench” will enter the game and relive the starter. The “bench” are all the players that did not start the game.
Next month, we will start with baseball. The season will have just begun, which means the dog days of summer are just around the corner!
Sara Hughes 15
Have you ever wondered what motivates a fat girl to stay positive in a "pro skinny girl society"? “What Every Fat Girl Wants “ will answer those questions once and for all. You will laugh and you might cry but you will hear the truth from a fat girl’s perspective. Available at www.whateveryfatgirlwants.com , www.amazon.com , www.smashwords.com and the Dock bookshop in Ft Worth Texas . Available in print and as an eBook for your Nook and Kindle.
16
buy clothes , shoes, hair, teeth. You can find something for everybody these days! Yes, you are full , large and beautiful! We have a This month I have a message for all of the beauti-
whole lot more to love and give!
ful full size women out there!
Get up woman and Get out there! Come up out of
I can speak on it, because I am a full size woman
the dry place! Valley of dry bones!
myself !
Let the beauty of the Lord shine on you for every-
In the bible there's a story about The Valley of the
one to see! Feel the breath of God breathing on
dry bones.
you telling you that He loves you . We all have a
EZEKIEL 37:1-10
purpose! There is a reason for you being here!
Ezekiel was down in the valley which was full of
The beauty of Jesus will give you confidence in
bones. They were very dry and dead. They had no
yourself. The Lords love will make you love your-
life in them.
self. Become loveable! Jesus will make you whole,
You may say where's Pastor Nannie going with
like the woman with the issue of blood. She
this one?
pushed through the crowd . The woman pressed
The bible says, he prophesy for these bones shall
her way through to get what she needed. Her need
live.
was healing! Step out and go get it! Let the Lord
There was a noise, a shaking and the bones came
breathe on you and give you life and eternal
together , bone to his bone. Flesh came up upon
life ,that only comes from Jesus! Start living.
them, and the skin covered them : but there was
Show off those beautiful curves (in a Godly way
no breath in them.
that is) Stand Up, Breath , Speak Life and Start
He prophesy to the wind! Spoke to the atmos-
Living! Woman of God , It's time to start living!
phere, breath came, they stood up on there feet
God bless you all
and they lived ! Stood up upon their feet, an ex-
Pastor Nannie German
ceeding great army. No matter what may be happening to you in your life it's time to stand up , breath and start living! Come out of the valley! No more dry bone! It's time for some of us to start living , breathing and standing up for ourselves! Being full size does not mean that life is over ! There's no reason why we can not look good from head to toe! You can
17
IS MARRIAGE FOR WHITE PEOPLE ?
of individuals getting older and therefore marrying out of fear of growing old alone. Or women who have never married and
A few years ago I read an article in the
are more concerned about being able to
Washington Post by Joy Jones entitled
share the experience of an “on my wed-
“Marriage is for White People” and the arti-
ding” story and feeling left out and left be-
cle talked to adolescent children who
hind by their girlfriends.
claimed that marriage was for white people. It went on to state various statistics,
I have plenty of friends that have children,
i.e. since the 1960’s the marriage rate for
it doesn’t make me want to rush out and
African American’s has continued to drop.
get pregnant so I can share the experience
Statistics such as this and others of its kind
of a “pregnancy/baby shower/labor”
about Black women and the Black commu-
story…its asinine and stupid. What works
nity prompted me to ask why is it that
for one individual does not necessarily
marriage is not preached, instilled, taught,
work for others. Envy and jealousy come
or encouraged in our community.
into play in respect to marriage and children. Some women may never experience
Having grown up in a two parent house-
either, and in some cases may not wish to
hold, whose parents are still alive and to-
have those experiences?
gether, I witnessed love, struggle, trials, and tribulations. I witnessed infidelity and
Maybe this question is deeper than the
counseling, and two people working to-
black community. Maybe its societies fault,
gether to create, grow, build, learn, and
or Hollywood’s fault for glorifying shacking
love---together. It is the reason why I be-
up and out of wedlock parenting as op-
lieve in the sanctity of marriage. I believe
posed to marriages and families. Don’t get
in standing before God and repeating vows
me wrong, I know folks can be just as, if
to merge your lives into one. I believe in
not more committed without marriage, but
the sacrament of the vows.
if you are a spiritual person, marriage is deeper than that piece of paper. It’s com-
What I don’t believe in, is the recent trend
mitting yourselves and making a promise 18
to God. We can go back as far as slavery and Willie
So if marriage is supposed to be “the big
Lynch and the separation of the black man
win” or the culmination/prize of a rela-
from the family. We can discuss the exces-
tionship, why then is it not revered in the
sive number of single parent house holds
Black community?
or we can talk about the fact that folks don’t really know one another prior to
Saundra aka SassyScribe
marriage. Yet during slavery days WE were not allowed to document our marriage, which is the significance of jumping the broom…a tradition still practiced in many African American weddings.
I know that there are a myriad of reasons as to why people are single and why people will cohabitate than marriage. For some women it’s easier to live with him first, and before they know it its 3 kids and ten years later and if one person were to die, the survivor would have no legal ties to anything. Yes, I know that can be changed with a living will and what have you, but how many folks that are living together truly have their “paperwork” in order? However, each year the declining number of marriages, hits black women the most. 19
Spring Into A Break" If you’ve got kids, you
weekend-long Crafting Community for all
know that “spring break”
ages. It’s not Crayola and Play-Doh, either:
has nothing in common
kids can do everything from make their
with college students
own henna tattoos to watch movies alfresco
partying at the beach or
(popcorn and glow sticks provided).
a couple’s spontaneous escape to a resort. Organizing the needs and wants of various age groups
As
is no vacation. According to the U.S. Travel Asso-
mom
ciation, 30 percent of travelers have children in
Mere-
tow, and with such a large share of the market,
dith
you can bet hotels and cities across the country
Alex-
are rolling out the red carpet for all
ander
ages. Whether you’re looking to have a relaxing
says, “It’s as if someone came into my head and
getaway in the U.S. or an extreme adventure
created the perfect weekend for my family.” Not a
abroad, a growing number of hotels and tour com-
bad review!
panies are catering to families. The result can be an unforgettable experience for your children and a fun trip for everyone. If your kids have webbed feet, the new Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, will have them squealing with delight. But the hotel is also a parent’s dream. It’s the first Disney property in Hawaii — on a serene crescent of sand along Oahu’s western shore — and the first property not connected to a theme park. Children are won over by Aulani’s waterslides, which tunnel through lava rock. Also go paddle boarding or snorkeling in the shallow waters off the beach, which teem with tame stingrays and angelfish. Artsy families will find inspiration at the Ace Hotel Palm Springs. Every year, the staff offers a
20
But maybe the truest break comes with heading
destination. Look into what your budget will allow
into the wild and letting kids release all that en-
before making any spring break commitments.
ergy in the great outdoors, exposing them to wildlife and America’s natural beauty. A favorite out-
If you've already got your heart set on your dream
fitter trip is an awe-inspiring introduction to a na-
vacation over spring break, do your best to start
tional park that includes riding horses and learn-
budgeting for it as far in advance as you can.
ing canyoneering.
Travel is fun and will definitely add to the overall life experience, but it's not worth going
Last but not least,
broke over.
the non-profit
~Finding A Way 2 Your Purpose~
Rona Walton, Travel Designer
house builder Habitat For Humanity is
Destynee Travel
reporting that more
512-524-3874/o
than 10,000 high school and college students are
512-524-3875/f
lining up to swing hammers over spring break through Habitat's Collegiate Challenge alternative spring break program - that's a massive increase in student support over the last five years! In previous years, more than 1,531 students volunteered to spend spring break volunteering to help rebuild the storm-torn US Gulf Coast.
A great holiday isn't necessarily about where you go. Remember that you might have just as much fun on a staycation or a road trip as you would on an elaborate (and expensive) vacation in an exotic
21
Interesting Money Facts Courtesy of www.moneyfactory.com Funny Money Before the days of paper money, Americans traded animal skins, including deer and elk bucks, for goods and services. Hence the word "buck" to describe money. What happens if your money gets trashed? The Office of Currency Standards will replace it if you can present to officials 51 percent of the note. If your cash has been burned, torn or otherwise destroyed, they will help you verify and replace that money. The office once received a shotgun in which a man had hidden some money, but forgot and fired the gun. In another case, a farmer sent his cow’s stomach stuffed with money. Parker Brothers printed more money for its Monopoly games than the Federal Reserve has issued in real money for the United States. If you stacked up all the Monopoly sets made, the pile would be more than 1,100 miles high.
Money is Art! The hands of the clock on the back of the $100 bill are set at approximately 4:10. Although the time is not readily identifiable to the naked eye, it can be seen when examined with 20-fold magnification. There are no records explaining why that particular time was chosen. Martha Washington is the only woman whose portrait has appeared on a U.S. currency note.
Amazing Facts There is about $823 in circulation for each person in America. A piece of currency can be folded forward and back 4,000 times before it will tear. The $100 note has been the largest denomination of currency in circulation since 1969. The largest bill ever printed was the $100,000 bill; it was actually a Gold Certificate issued in 1934. These notes were used for transactions between Federal Reserve banks and were not circulated among the general public. President Woodrow Wilson was depicted on the bill.
Making Money Ninety-five percent of the notes printed each year are used to replace those already in circulation. Fortyfive percent of the notes printed are $1 bills. In 2002, the U.S. Mint produced 14,413,236,610 coins for general circulation.
22
Inflation From 1940 to 1946, the average income in America doubled. During 1940, the average worker was paid less than $600 a year. In 1946 the same worker got $1,200 a year. In 1919 the average income in America was around $650 per year. In the 1920s you could buy a brand new car for less than $300. In 1931 a new Chevrolet cost $623. Between 1968 and 1978 the price of new cars went up drastically. Cars cost twice as much in 1978 as they did in 1968.
Money Measurements A mile of pennies laid out is $844.80. By this standard, America is about $2.5 million wide, coast to coast. A million $1 bills weigh 2,200 pounds. A stack of bills destroyed in a single year would measure 200 miles high. Mt. Everest, the tallest mountain on Earth, is a mere 19,035 feet, or slightly more than 3 miles high.
Fun Facts If you have three quarters, four dimes and four pennies, you have $1.19. You also have the largest amount of money in coins possible without being able to make change for a dollar. Did you know that a quarter has 119 grooves around the edge, and a dime has 118? Do you know the purpose of the ridges on the edges of coins? Without ridges, it is possible to scrape metal off coins without it being obvious. In the days when coins were made of silver or gold, a person could have made a good, but illegal, living from shaving coins and selling the precious metal. How long do bills last? The Federal Reserve System lists the following life spans:
$1
22 months
$5
2 years
$ 10
3 years
$ 20
4 years
$ 50
9 years
$100
9 years
Coins usually survive in circulation for about 30 years.
Sara Hughes 23
BROWN BUTTER MADELEINES Ingredients 1/2 cup unsalted butter 2 eggs 1/3 cup sugar Nice drizzle of honey (1 to 2 teaspoons) 2/3 cup flour 1/2 teaspoon baking powder Salt 1/2 orange, zested
Special equipment: madeleine mold*
Directions Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. To brown the butter, melt the butter over medium heat in a heavy saucepan, allowing to bubble and foam, stirring frequently. Once the foaming subsides, allow the butter to brown along the bottom and then remove the pan from the heat. Browning will take about 5 minutes total; do not burn. In a medium bowl, mix the eggs, sugar, and honey with electric mixer until thick and pale. Add the browned butter and mix. In a small bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon salt, and mix into liquid ingredients, along with zest, just until blended. Fill the greased madeleine baking molds and bake until golden, 9 to 11 minutes.
24
North African Meatballs For the North African Sauce: 2 tablespoons olive oil 1/2 small onion, diced 2 cloves garlic, chopped 1 lemon, zested 1/2 cup pitted and chopped briny olives 1/2 cup white wine 1/4 cup chicken stock or broth 1 (14-ounce) can crushed or diced tomatoes 1 teaspoon light brown sugar 1/2 teaspoon dried red pepper flakes Pinch ground cinnamon Salt and freshly ground black pepper
To make the North African Sauce:
For the Meatballs:
In a large saucepan heat the olive oil over medium
1 egg 2 tablespoons tomato paste 3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh cilantro leaves 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger 1 teaspoon ground cumin Pinch ground cinnamon 3/4 pound ground beef 1/3 cup finely ground rolled oats or fine bread crumbs Salt and freshly ground black pepper 3 to 4 tablespoons vegetable oil, for cooking 4 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
heat and sautĂŠ the onion and garlic until soft but not brown, about 3 minutes. Add the lemon zest and olives and cook for 1 more minute. Add the white wine, deglaze the pan, and let it reduce for a 1 to 2 minutes. Stir in the stock, canned tomatoes, sugar, red pepper flakes, and cinnamon, and simmer to blend flavors, about 7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. To make the Meatballs: In a medium bowl, add the egg and tomato paste and stir until smooth. Add the cilantro, ginger, cumin, and cinnamon and mix until well blended. Stir in the ground beef and oats, season with salt and pepper, to taste, and combine gently after each addition. Do not over mix. Rolling with your hands, make about 32 meatballs, about 1-inch in diameter. In a large sautĂŠ pan, heat 3 tablespoons vegetable oil over medium heat, and brown the meatballs in batches until golden on all sides. Add more oil, as needed. Transfer the meatballs to the pan with the sauce and let simmer for 20 minutes.
25
for There are key pieces that every Plus Size woman
spring.
needs to have in her wardrobe and I cannot live
3. A-Line Skirt: A Plus Size woman cannot go
without. Now that spring is here, I thought it
wrong with A-line! This skirt style is especially
would be good to get every woman started on the
great for women who have either a tummy issue
right path in creating their new "spring-fabulous"
or a hip/thigh issue but works well for most fig-
wardrobe. These wardrobe essentials will help
ures. When finding the right length in an A-line
you create a variety of looks that are classy, figure
skirt you want to stay away from styles that hit
-flattering, and timeless.
you mid-calf, it's better to just hit at or below the knee where the leg is the thinnest and shows off
1. Foundation Garments: Starting with the proper
the curve of the calf. Try and pick an A-line with a
undergarments is key to having a "Spring-
pretty floral pattern that is perfect for spring.
Fabulous" wardrobe. I feel that what you wear under clothes can definitely make or break your out-
4. Classic Button-Front Shirt: A classic shirt you
fit. Every Plus Size woman must be sure to have
will reach for again and again. You can't go wrong
proper fitting bras, panties, shapers, etc. to help
with this style whether if it's for work, a casual
smooth out your curves and complete the look
day out and about, or a night out on the town.
you are trying to achieve. I don't leave home with-
Long sleeve, short-sleeve, three-quarter sleeve,
out these and particularly love the hide and sleek
whatever sleeve, pair it up with a fitted vest or
cami by SPANX.
under a light weight sorbet colored cardigan and you are "Spring-Fabulous."
2. Sexy Wrap Dress: This is a definite must have dress style for every Plus Size woman. Why it's so
5. Jeans: Whether they are cropped or not, no
amazing is because the diagonal part of the wrap
wardrobe is complete without a great pair of plus
works like magic to show off a narrow waist and
size jeans! They can be dressed up or down. Wide-
fakes one for the wider waisted women. The wrap
leg trouser style jeans are especially great for the
dress is a classic and is super sexy whether in a
more pear-shaped woman and the "Skinny" jean
print or solid, pair it with a sexy pair of open toed
styles are a great fit for the apple-shaped Plus Size
heels and you're "Spring-Fabulous." Check out the
woman. For spring, try out a pair of distressed
gorgeous new Anastasia Interchangeable Plus Size
"Boyfriend Style" jeans for a more casual laid-
Wrap Dress ($89.99). This dress can also be worn
back look. Whatever style you choose, be sure to
as a one-shoulder style which is particularly hot
save the lighter washes for more casual daytime looks and the darker washes for the dressier night
26
6.Trench
Coat: This is a perfect spring staple! A
10. Hobo Bag: Comfortable hobo style bags in col-
Trench coat gives an outfit a complete, more pol-
ors such as black, white, beige, metallic, blue,
ished look. Pick one in a bright spring color or ba-
green, orange, and violet are extremely hot this
sic khaki. Find one that fits close to your body or
season. Make an impression and carry something
that has a tie at the waist for a more figure flatter-
bold and bright.
ing look. Three-quarter length styles are the most flattering. Be sure to stay away from the styles that have oversized lapels that can be extremely overpowering. 7. Flat Sandals: The foot-friendly flat sandal is a true essential for a "Spring-Fabulous" wardrobe. In addition to embellished, fringed, patent, metallic, and snakeskin print flat sandals, the "gladiator" look is particularly stylish and is worn great with jeans, Bohemian style tops, skirts, and dresses. 8. Romantic Blouse: This blouse should have a romantic feel to it with a lightweight, soft, flowy fabric in a light pastel solid or print. Find a style that has some lace or ruffle detail to make it "SpringFabulous." If the blouse is loose enough perhaps try belting it to define your waistline. Pair this blouse with jeans and your flat sandals and you are set. 9. Deep V-Neck Top: Deep V-necklines are a staple in Plus Size women fashions. Wearing a deep vneck makes the body look longer and leaner and is extremely flattering for a Plus Size figure. If a deep V-neck is not for you, pair it with a lightweight coordinating color cami for a great layered look with a pair of jeans.
27
.
Steps to Lowering your Cholesterol
1
Watch your diet. Foods that are high in saturated fat, such as fatty meats, processed meats, egg yolks, butter, processed grain products, and whole milk are also high in bad cholesterol. By avoiding these foods, you are sure to lower your cholesterol level. Foods such as fatty fish, nuts, oatmeal, and other foods fortified with stanols should be included in your diet, as they have been known to improve cholesterol levels.
2
Engage in physical activity. Exercise is an important factor in keeping cholesterol at a moderate level. It is recommended that people engage in 30 to 60 minutes of exercise daily. (Ref. 1.) If you are not physically fit, walking is a great way to exercise. Activities such as aerobics, running, gymnastics, and yoga are other great exercise routines.
3
Lose weight. This will reduce the level of bad cholesterol, while increasing good cholesterol levels. However, if you lose weight, it needs to be maintained. Periods of gaining and losing weight are dangerous for your health and will not improve cholesterol.
4
Changing your lifestyle is a primary factor in improving your health. Smoking and alcohol consumption are factors that increase cholesterol, as well as the risk of other health problems such as high blood pressure and heart disease. Smoking should be stopped and alcohol should only be used in moderation. For women, this means only one drink a day.
5
Take medication. If all else fails, see a medical professional who can test and monitor your cholesterol. If other health conditions are present, the doctor may recommend medication. However, medication should be taken as a last resort, because it often has unpleasant side effects.
28
Pastor Nannie German Sr. Pastor of Spirit and In Truth Ministries in NJ . Pastor German writes our Spiritual Insight column. Freelance writer and web designer Keri Atkins has always enjoyed fashion, but never thought she had a place in fashion as a plus sized woman. Her fashion blog, Model Fashion, was inspired by this goal: to share fashion spreads, modeling tips, 'how to' styling videos and more for all sizes.
Steve Harris is a licensed minister of the gospel. He resides in Tuscaloosa Alabama with his wife Roxanne Harris,
29
son manipulated his mother and he took the no approach and when he cried he put him in his walker. My grandson is a sponge and does what he sees my son do which is what we want them to The definition of post is used as a soldier who
do , but what we must do is pour things into our
is present and working his
sons that are honorable, responsible and caring to
assigned area.
name a few. If our sons see fathers hitting, curs-
Have you wondered why our young men act and
ing, not coming home, not supporting their chil-
conduct themselves like they do.?
dren then they will see and mirror that behavior.
Where’d they learn it from and how is it possible
Men who abuse their wives have an effect on their
they’re allowed to continue to act that way?
sons because the son will mirror that behavior
To say it bluntly, our young men have not had
believing that is the
good role models that address issues facing them
right way to do it,
as an individual. Instead those in the media have
daughters will mirror
become a type of substitute father regardless
that behavior by seek-
Of how bad their personal life is. The attention of
ing out a man that is
fame, notoriety, name brand clothing and
abusive believing that
Popularity has become the young man’s teacher
is the way she is to be
and what they strive to become. Fathers have
loved. But if they see
huge jobs in training up their son’s properly with
their parents caring,
the streets, media all competing for the ear of
loving one another this
their son. When a son is born the training begins
behavior and her selection will mirror the par-
before they’re crawling or walking. The word no
ents. When our sons go through the hitting phase
must come early to establish boundaries from
fathers must be consistent in the discipline in this
both parents if not the child will mature quickly
area they cannot go to kindergarten hitting. A
seeking yes from the one parent it knows it can
child that hits is quickly labeled and if not ad-
manipulate. My son Stephen’s son will cry, make
dressed this behavior will accompany them in
noise to his mother to get what he wants from
their later years of school and adulthood. You re-
her , but his son does not do that when he and his
member the phrase “ monkey see monkey do’’
son are alone together. Why because my son
keep that in mind when you do the things you do.
started training early, Stephen saw how easily his
Our son’s are going to learn how to do things ei-
30
ther from you, media, street or misfit friends. Why not you? Training up a child in the way he should go and when he gets old he will not depart from that teaching. Now go look at your son(s) how great can they be with the correct up bringing fill his mind with challenging thoughts , critical thinking , And the love and obedience of Jesus Christ. Here are a few questions to ask yourself.
If my son was exactly like me what kind of son would my son be? My son has a good knowledge of money matters, My son understands how to deal with conflict. My son has a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and is active in Church. My son respect his mother and all women? My son has goals and dreams for his life. There are many more questions we could ask here but education begins at home and not at School or church .You can remember how you struggled as a young man with no father, do the right thing.
Steve Harris 31
Follow us on
To purchase a print copy of magazine and have it mailed to your home. www.magcloud.com/browse/issue/357691
WEFGW MAGAZINE ™ No part of this magazine can be duplicated without written permission from publisher. Thank You.
32