The Bay: End of Summer Issue by STYLEZINE Online Magazine

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G I R L TOMII CULMER

T H E B AY 2 0 1 4 : G E T W R E C K E D

Photography: ScharadL Styled by: Parris Barnes, Angel Kenny and LaVonne Alexis for ShoptheCC MUA: Dario Deveaux Hair: Lovette Bethel Swimsuit: Heat Wave Surf & Swim

WHAT’S INSIDE Hair Me Out Skin Deep Runway to Parris Hello Dolls Love Lust & Lunch Its Wateva Photo Spreads The B Side

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VOLUME 2. SUMMER 365 4 years ago we launched The Bay swimsuit/ summer series. Each year since the readers have grown in numbers with anticipation of not only the issue itself but also what is marked now as an online event. What has now become our staple issue of the year has brought The Sports Center/ Heat Wave onboard for a second consecutive year the official title sponsor for the 2014 release. We continued in the vein of the 2013 issue photographed in Abaco and decided to again shoot outside of the capital on Rose Island. The Island set the perfect backdrop for The Bay 2014 Get Wrecked issue.

A LETTER FROM NIK BARNES

We coupled the island with beautiful hand picked beauties to put together the guideline to the shipwrecked island lifestyle. To all our sponsors, models, contributors, advertisers and the best magazine team assembled at Stylezine Magazine, I say thank you for making this issue possible. I now present to you The Bay 2014, Get Wrecked.

CONTRIBUTORS Editor in Chief Nik Barnes Art Director Scharad Lightbourne Staff Writers Celeste Giselle Smith Gavvin Strachan Kedar Clarke Jaychelle Knowles LaVaughn Adderley Parris Barnes TK Glover Gail Lindsey Disha Simone Smith Khashan Poitier Photographers Scharad Lightoburne Photo Editor Melissa Staggs

Nik Barnes

Editor-In-Chief editor@stylezinemagazine.com

Contributing Writers Condesha Smith Sarsha Taylor Sales Team Jaquay Adderley E-Sounds Marketing The Barnes Group Public Relations Colette Hanna Design Team Mecko Gibson Kai Sweeting Katie Storr Alanzo Bannister STYLEZINE MAGAZINE ÂŠ 2014. All rights reserved. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached, or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of the owners. For more information, please contact us. No part of STYLEZINE may be produced in any form by any means without prior written consent. For permissions requests, please call 242.328.5443 or 242.525.9751. For reproduction on articles, please contact Nikolas Barnes at 242.525.9751 or via e-mail at editor@ stylezinemagazine.com.

T H E B AY 2 0 1 4 : G E T W R E C K E D F A S H I O N . A R T . E N T E R T A I N M E N T. L I F E S T Y L E

SOUND OFF VOLUME 2. SUMMER 2014 Andy ISprint TruGod Alexis Make a marine proud of Guarding his Heritage! Tuesday S. White “Soar above it...” #bebiggerthanyourdisappointment #thatsmygirl Marriott Racquel Derricka man i need this mag its super cray!!! Antone Williamson i need my auto graph copy baby Sophie Melissa Taylor Dope!! Nice work!! Javan Johnson S/O to the talented Ms. Shanae Strachan. Just got done finally reading your October issue of Stylezine Magazine and I feel you working oh so hardly for what you want and believe in. I can respect a woman who strives. Make that change! We can use something different as a people once your intent is good of course. The title was on contrary worthy and yes you should have been wearing that belt right now. *wink*. We might not know each other that well but your story is compelling me to believe that having such a title would have put you on a courageous and responsible pedestal to accomplish a lot. Everything happens for a reason. Can’t wait to see whats in store for your journey. Don’t stop. Let’s get global. PJ Sands Just finished Oct13 read of @stylezinemag. if u aren’t a fan of @ ShanaeStrachan WOW ...” #dinmn

“I can respect a woman who strives. Make that change! We can use something different as a people once your intent is good of course.”

Edward Teach ‫@‏‬CalicoFin The new issue of @stylezinemag is #Cray Go check it out! Lee ‫@‏‬leeleerussell Love the new issue of @stylezinemag !!! Great job @iamnikbarnes & @ scharadlphoto one of your best yet! Selina Kyle ‫_@‏‬catalyseur Loving the new issue of @stylezinemag check it out! http://stylezinemagazine. com

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T H E B AY 2 0 1 4 : G E T W R E C K E D

MODELS Crystal Strachan

SP ECIAL THANKS

Celeste Marshall

Margaret Glynatsis

Roxan Smith

The Sports Center

Ashley Knowles Ominique Burrows

Lavonne Ferguson The Cuveitierâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Closet Parris Barnes The Runway to Parris

T I TLE PARTNERS

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BEAUTY F A S H I O N . A R T . E N T E R T A I N M E N T. L I F E S T Y L E

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FASHION

RUNWAY TO

P RRIS

By: Parris Barnes

10 THINGS TO ADD TO YOUR CLOSET THIS SUMMER I know it feels like we just hit summer, but this Bahamian heat is saying that its summer all year round so that means it’s time for our must have list. I’m about to make your shopping a whole lot easier. Here are 10 MUST HAVE items to add too your wardrobe this summer.

Maxi/Midi Skirts & Dresses

SHOPPING

LIST

1. CROP TOPS: Everyone can pull off a crop top in my opinion once you find the right style and fit for your body type you can rock this look all summer! Stripes and Floral print

2. MAXI/MIDI SKIRTS & DRESSES: You have an option to wear it long or mid-length either way is perfect for this summer, choose bright bold colors to get your look a light summery fun look. Skirts with lots of movement always looks fresh and fun to wear. 3. STRIPES AND FLORAL PRINT: Whether its a top, bottom, a pair of sandals or a handbag prints are HOT right now. Wearing print on print or even mix matching prints is definitely the way to go this summer. 4. STATEMENT CLUTCH: Clutch handbags are no longer restricted to wear just in the evenings. Add a bright neon clutch to your wardrobe and see how fun your outfit can be. 5. BERMUDA SHORTS: Bold colored shorts are refreshingly hot and in style. Be sure to find the perfect fit you can either wear it loose or fitted both styles are trending this summer. 6. STACKED JEWELRY: Stack your rings, bracelets, necklaces this summer you can never have to many on. Accessories plays a huge role in your overall look so the next time you go to a store don’t just pick up one ring buy 3 instead! 7. HIGH WAISTED BIKINI : This trend has been circulating for awhile and I can’t get enough of it. 8. ANKLE SANDALS: I love love love this style for the summer you can pair this with almost anything you wear. I particularly love a thick heeled ankle sandal. 9. STATEMENT NECKLACES: Whether you’re wearing a simple tee or dressing for a dinner date with the girls a statement necklace is perfect for any occasion. I always say the bigger the better!! You’ll actually be surprised how easy it is to make on your own. DIY project sometime? 10. TROUSERS: Add a few pairs of trousers to your wardrobe. They’re perfect for work or any outing. High wasted trousers are absolutely my favorite! Go crazy and choose prints, bold colors, white, stripes or whatever your heart desires.

High waisted bikini

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FASHION

NIGHT &DAY

By: Conesha K. 242BlqRze

Summer Time is THE fun season of the year. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a time to kick back with your friends, chill out with your family or turn up the heat with your lover.

However, for the everyday woman, reality doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stop for the season! She still has to report to work, run errands and in some cases, attend classes. So just how can you take your outfit from day to night this summer?! Bahamian blogger, 242BlqRze, has 3 simple ways for the working girl, the girl on the go and the college girl!

pumps and you're off to work!

THE WORKING WOMAN After a long day at work, the “happy hours” are even longer during the summer time! So unless you work in a uniform mandatory organization, dress a little lighter and casual to work during the day for an easy transition for happy hour during the night. Pair a lightweight pastel blazer, with a cowl neck inner blouse and tapered pants. Then step into a comfortable pair of pumps and wear your hair back to allow your accessories, necklace or earrings to make the statement. Grab a tote or satchel that matches your pumps and you’re off to work!

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Now, at 5:00 p.m. it's time to change your daytime outfit, to your night time outfit. Slip into your office bathroom and slip off your cowl neck blouse for a sequin or sheer inner piece. Trade your pumps for strappy heels and your handbag for a wristlets or a clutch with a shoulder strap (just in case you get a little too tipsy and forget where you put your purse). Finally let your hair down and you're ready for happy hour!

Now, at 5:00 p.m. it’s time to change your daytime outfit, to your night time outfit. Slip into your office bathroom and slip off your cowl neck blouse for a sequin or sheer inner piece. Trade your pumps for strappy heels and your handbag for a wristlets or a clutch with a shoulder strap (just in case you get a little too tipsy and forget where you put your purse). Finally let your hair down and you’re ready for happy hour! So for the working woman we changed 3 pieces of her outfit to make the transition: her blouse, her shoes and her handbag. The blazer and tapered pants remain the same for a touch of sophistication at work and after work. Keeping colors cool and neutral also helps for a day to night transition.

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So for the working woman weI Ochanged her FA S H N . A R3Tpieces . E N of T Eher R T Aoutfit I N M to E Nmake T. L Ithe F E Stransition: TYLE blouse, her shoes and her handbag. The blazer and tapered pants remain the same for a touch of sophistication at work and after work. Keeping colors cool and neutral also helps

chambray shirt tied at the waist. Pair it with comfortable wedges, and bring back the backpack trend that matches your wedges. Keep accessories simple and casual.

THE GIRL ON THE GO Life doesn’t pause for the Summer, you still have to pay bills, take the dog to the vet, and grocery shop! It’s going to be hot out, so less is more in your day time “on the go” look. Then you can always add more to the outfit to heat up the night for a dinner date!

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Take a simple body con dress, tube top or sleeveless, and layer it with a jeans vest or chambray shirt tied at the waist. Pair it with comfortable wedges, and bring back the backpack trend that matches your wedges. Keep accessories simple and casual.

After you've handled business, it's time to wine and dine with that special someone. It's summer, so keep the outfit bright and add a little color, even at night. Remove the jacket or vest to reveal a sexy bare collar bone and draw attention to your neckline with a bejeweled statement necklace. Rest down your backpack and pick up a clutch that adds personality to the outfit as your dress itself is so simple. Finally strut out the door in some jeweled designed sandal heels. After you’ve handled business, it’s time to wine and dine with that special someone. It’s summer, so keep the outfit bright and add a little color, even at night. Remove the jacket or vest to reveal a sexy bare collar bone and draw attention to your neckline with a bejeweled statement necklace. Rest down your backpack and pick up a clutch that adds personality to the outfit as your dress itself is so simple. Finally strut out the door in some jeweled designed sandal heels.

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Now for the girl on the go, we did a little math. We added some eye catching accessories and subtracted the layers. The simple body con dress can be subtle in the day and sexy in the night, it all depends on what it’s paired with. And this essential piece is perfect for day

Now for the girl on the go, we did a little math. We added some eye catching accessories

THE COLLEGE GIRL: School is probably the last place you want to be spending your summer days, but anything to complete your courses faster... We totally understand! The faster you get thru school days, the quicker you get to enjoy your summer nights with friends and family. Either way, we encourage you to dress comfortable and relaxed.

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Classes are over; it's time to kick back with family and friends. Maybe at the movies, bowling alley, or a game night at home! Lose the jeans for a skater shirt and grab a jacket, just in case the venue gets cold. It's not a must that you wear it, after all it is summer. Dress up the simple outfit with a statement rhinestone necklace, stackable rings and bracelets, then add a vintage purse.

Wear a loose fit graphic tee, paired . with your favorite skinny jeans and comfortable sneakers, flats or espadrilles for your school days. Graphic tees and jeans are closet staples, so you won’t have to go on a shopping spree for school. And flat shoes or sneakers are best for walking around campus to classes. Stack on your arm candy and grab your book bag on your way to success!

Classes are over; it’s time to kick back with family and friends. Maybe at the movies, bowling alley, or a game night at home! Lose the jeans for a skater shirt and grab a jacket, just in case the venue gets cold. It’s not a must that you wear it, after all it is summer. Dress up the simple outfit with a statement rhinestone necklace, stackable rings and bracelets, then add a vintage purse. The college girl look is all about casual, comfortable fun! Both day and night outfits are simple, and incorporate staple pieces that should be found in every girl’s closet such as the graphic tee, jeans, skirts, and sneakers, which make it very easy to create day and night outfits.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .The

summer months are the most fu and there should be no reason you miss a beat! Remember, bright, light colors in the day can easily be toned down with dark colors for the night. Simple playful accessories in the day can be traded for more dramatic statement accessories at night. 242BlqRze wants you to enjoy your

F A S H I O N . A R T . E N T E Rsummer T A I N MBeautiful... E N T. L I F From E S T Yday L E to night!

The college girl look is all about casual, comfortable fun! Both day and night outfits are

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CELESTE

MISS UNIVERSE BAHAMAS 2012/2013

OMIN IQUE F A S H I O N . A R T . E N T E R T A I N M E N T. L I F E S T Y L E

Top. Alicia Seymour Blue skirt. Fierce Boutique Pink leggings. Charlotte Russe Shoes. Apple Bottoms

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GOOD TASTE IS

CONSISTENT

Dining? Cafe Martinique Mode of Transportation? 2014 Mercedes Benz SLK 500 AMG Destination? Sky Beach, Resort, Eleuthera Residence? 609 Roc Tower, Bayroc Cigar? Graycliff Chateau Grand Cru Timepiece? Panarai Limited Edition Anything Real Estate Matt Sweeting | Your Agent for Life

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By Celeste Giselle

SUMMER 365 Every season brings its unique taste and seasonal ingredients. But summer just somehow seems to be the best in delivering some of the most amazing foods. Strawberries, melons, shrimps, sausagesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; â&#x20AC;Ś.. Ultimate parties and impromptu hangouts, admiring the scorching heat and light crisp air, sipping and munching on goodies while socializing with new acquaintances and old friends. These recipes are easy and fairly cheap so that you cannot only be the center of attention of the party but look great doing it too!

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Shrimp PO’Boy (Makes 4)

Everything about Southern food puts a smile on face. Po’Boys is an easy fix that is flavorful and filling. Ingredients 1 lb small shrimp, peeled and tails removed 1 T Old Bay seasoning, divided 2/3 C flour ¼ C cornmeal 2/3 C buttermilk 2 tsp hot sauce Olive oil (or other) for frying 4 French bread hoagies (6-inch) Butter Granulated garlic 1 ½ C baby spinach 8 Tomato slices Red onion slices Mayonnaise Method Using three bowls, toss the shrimp with 1T of the old bay seasoning mix. In the second bowl combine buttermilk and hot sauce. Add in shrimp. In the third bowl combine all dry ingredients and coat shrimp in mixture. Once oil is heated on medium heat in skillet, add shrimp one at a time and fry for at least 2 minutes on each side (depending on the size of your shrimp). Let drain on paper towel. Cut French hoagie bread and smear each side with butter and garlic spread and lightly toast the buns. To assemble sandwich, smear mayonnaise on each side of bun, place baby spinach then tomatoes and red onions and top with shrimps and close.

Red Wine Sangria (Serves 12)

Nothing screams summer than a refreshing fruity drink engulfed in some wine. This classic summer cocktail is sure to be a splash for any poolside party or even ending a nice relaxing evening. Ingredients ½ orange, thinly sliced ½ lemon, thinly sliced 1 apple, cored and sliced 2 T fresh lime juice 2 T fresh orange juice ¼ C sugar ¼ C brandy ¼ C orange-flavored liqueur (like Cointreau or Grand Marnier) 1 bottle hearty red wine 1 750-ml bottle sparkling water Method Combine all ingredients in a large pitcher, excluding the sparkling water. Stir until sugar dissolved completely. Chill for at least 2hrs.

Churros (Makes 20 ea.)

This Mexican treat is sure to be a hit anywhere! The smell alone will seduce you. This has defiantly one of my favorite snacks from when I was a kid. So throw out those 80’s doughnuts, and in turn try something new! Ingredients 1 C - Water 1/3 C - Butter 2T - Brown Sugar ½ t - Salt 1C- All Purpose Flour 1 Egg ½ t - Vanilla Extract Coating ¼ C - Sugar ¾ tsp - Ground Cinnamon Method 1. Combine water, butter, brown sugar, and bring to a boil. 2. Turn off stove and pour in 1 cup of all purpose flour and stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until combine into a dough form. 3. Cool for 10 minutes, add egg and vanilla extract and continue to beat the mixture with a wooden spoon until incorporated. 4. Transfer mixture to a decorating bag fitted with a large star tip. Line a baking sheet waxed paper. Pipe 4x1-inch logs onto prepared baking sheet, refrigerate for 10 minutes before baking. 5. Preheat oven to 375F. Place baking sheet into oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until center of dough is done (use toothpick to check if it comes out clean when poked). 6. Combine sugar and ground cinnamon altogether and add the baked churros into the cinnamon sugar right out of the oven to coat evenly. 7. Serve with melted chocolate or dulce de leche (In a pot add 1 can of condensed milk and cover with water. Cook for at least 2 hrs. Once done, open can and milk should be or caramel colour.)

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CRYSTAL F A S H I O N . A R T . E N T E R T A I N M E N T. L I F E S T Y L E

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T OMII

>HEAVY ROTATION

Another dope project for bringing in summer with would have to be the hood crooner August Alsina’s “Testimony”. Geared around the story of his life, both past and present; the Radio Killa signee shows just why The-Dream was spot on when he tapped him to join the label. The vocals on this album are undeniably good, along with dope beats and a few well placed features to make this a B-Side #OfficialBanger. Tracks like “Make It Home” (His second radio single) featuring fellow southern artist Young Jeezy and the closing track “Benediction” featuring everyone’s goto feature right now, Ricky Rozay are reason alone to appreciate this body of work and all it’s stories. Other features include Pusha T & Yo Gotti, with he deluxe edition of the album featuring artists like Trinidad Jame$, B.o.B,Trey Songz & Chris Brown. The appropriately titled “Testimony” is in stores and available at your favorite online music distributors now.

TESTIMONY AUGUST ALSINA

I hoped you enjoyed this article. Let me know what you thought and it might end up in the next issue. Tweet me @tkdadon and let me know your opinion!

>SOMETHINGS YOU MIGHT HAVE MISSED Justin Bieber started his #MusicMondays initiative in promotion of his second film “Believe” similar to Kanye West’s popular GOODFriday releases back in 2010 leading up to his “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy” album. Justin started with his record “Heartbreaker” released on October 7th, leading to a string of releases including the song “All That Matters” which is a definite stand out. Check out the hip-hop influenced love song in the music video and if you enjoy you can also go cop the album it lives on, “Journals”. Justin Bieber “All That Matters”

The Weeknd grabs hold of Ty Dolla $ign’s Wiz Khalifa assisted track “Or Nah” and turns it into a slow bounce of a song that just may bring a little bit if the freak out in you on this freebie he dropped for all his fans. Just a little bit of a fair warning guys, you probably don’t want to play this song at work. Yup, it’s one of those. Enjoy. The Weeknd’s “Or Nah” (Remix)

Gearing up for the release of his long overdue next album “Ludaversal”, Ludacris hooks up with the voice himself Jeremih, taps Wiz Khalifa and pulls in up and coming producer and Soundcloud sensation Cashmere Cat for what is likely to be the best interpretation of an Aqua record I’ve ever heard. In actuality, Luda’s portion of this song isn’t that awesome, but the vocals and production surrounding him make this group effort worth hearing. You can look out for the full “Ludaversal” album sometime later this year if things go as planned. Ludacris’ “Party Girls”

>ARTISTWATCH SZA

SZA - “Z” EP Nearly three years ago, an uber talented young songstress by the name SZA (SizzAh) took up the microphone when it became obvious that she would not be able to get to grad-school to pursue her then sought after career in marine biology. The now twenty four year old girl next door has since released two extended plays and signed on to the Top Dawg Entertainment record label where she released her third this past April. The EP titled simply “Z” is quickly making more of a name for the up and coming songstress worldwide. SZA’s second EP “S” marks the beginning of the journey that is thought to be leading upto her debut full length album that is expected to obviously be titled “A” with the complete collection of projects together spelling out her Wu inspired moniker “SZA”. Her newest single “Babylon” is definitely

different and definitely worth listening to. SZA’s Mellow voice over the slow bounce of a track just kind of does something to your mind. Check out the music video for a taste of Z and if you find yourself wanting more head on over to SZA’s Soundcloud and stream the EP or to iTunes and give it a buy. Oh and there’s actually a Kendrick verse on the EP Version of “Babylon” so there’s that to look forward to if you’re one of the Kendrick fans out there. Not that the song actually needed the verse, but what ever, we can count it as a bonus. :) SZA “Babylon”

ISLAND REBEL Photographer: Leo Creary (www.leocreary.com) Grips: Vado Culmer Designer: Dklypse Swimwear (www.dklypse.com) Hair: Lovette Bethel Jewelry: Sunset Beauty Loft Models: Alexandra Pelanne Cadisha Knowles Joyanne Carroll Holli Millerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

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By : Gail Lindsey

In a deep and riveting conversation with a friend the other day they casually remarked to me:

check off this list of symptoms as created by Stephan Labossiere of stephenspeaks.com and Aleasa Word:

“You have a feminine side! You show it, sometimes!”

phenspeaks.com and Aleasa Word: 1) You try to do everything yourself. 2) You have a hard time giving respect. 3) You do not seek help – with ANYTHING if you can avoid it! 4) You put up barriers to avoid being hurt or you are afraid to be vulnerable. 5) Your attitude shows up before you do. 6) You are immovable and stoic. 7) You will not tolerate any form of disrespect and you are ready to attack at all times!

uhmm…which was promptly met by a classic blank stare. Like, what do you mean I show it “sometimes”? It says “Female” on my driver’s license, so doesn’t that mean all my sides are feminine? Ch. I’m talking to the ladies on this one, but I’m sure the fellas can agree that they know at least one female that suffers from IWS, or the “Independent Woman Syndrome”. See, I heard of IWS before and knew that I had a few of the symptoms, but I didn’t think it was still so obvious. Boy was I wrong and as a result, could not take offense to what was said. The truth is, fear and past experience can make you a different person that who you intended to be, or even who you think you are, in a way that receiving feedback from other people may surprise you. It made me consider the fact that modern females have so much pressure on them to assume what society has deemed a masculine role that they may have drifted from their more feminine qualities. NOTE: I’m not trying to say men and women should act a certain way or fulfill certain roles, please don’t jump on that. What I am saying is that I encounter females on a daily basis that are independent women, boot-strapping, a**-kicking take over the world types, that do not embrace or nurture their feminine side. I dare not venture into all of the reasons why a woman can develop IWS – that’s an extensive article for another time and a psychiatrist. Many females can point out life circumstances that forced us to develop the masculine side to survive. However, before you immediately declare that you do not have this debilitating disease,

This isn’t a comprehensive list, but rather covers the main symptoms of IWS. Whether you identify with this list or not, chances are even if you don’t, you know someone that may fit the criteria. Today’s women are career and goal oriented, with a plan in mind and how to get there. The counter to this is that no vulnerability exists with her. The masculine presence in her life has no balance, simply because she has taken the masculine for herself. The feminine energy is out of whack and relationships with the people in your life tend to suffer. There are ways in which you can exude feminine energy and make your man feel good that you are in his life, at the same time. That being said, I will pass on the advice I sought for myself and daily work toward to do better for me. If it is your desire to cure yourself of IWS and welcome full relationships into your life then please take note, or pass on to a friend who may need to do the same.

1) Know that not everyone in the world is bad or out to hurt you some people genuinely care and want you to let them in. 2) Know that you aren’t perfect, and no one is realistically expecting you to be! Your flaws are part of what makes you, you! So embrace them! 3) Stop messing with lames that have forced you to take up the masculine role in the first place. Because my masculine side is stronger, I found that I usually connect with males whose feminine side is stronger, making them seem like panties. This usually resulted in me having to wear the pants in the relationship. Yuck. Having a man who isn’t afraid to step up to the plate and take care of you will make it easier for you to embrace your feminine side as well #justsayin 4) Do not be afraid to be vulnerable. If you have been hurt, you can bounce back because you are strong. When you open up yourself to deserving people and new experiences, life can evolve in ways you never expected. 5) Try being nice. Put the b*tch attitude away (until needed). Speak nicely. Smile. Be nice to people. LOL Relax that tightness around your lips! 6) Know that a complete, whole man will be able to recognize your need to feel secure enough to take down the breast plate of war, and you will feel comfortable doing so. 7) Ask for help if you need it! Yes figure things out on your own, but let that masculine brain and brawn come in handy. Sure you can take out the garbage, but make sure that strapping, healthy man does it so you don’t smudge your nail polish *wink* 8) Don’t be so ready to retaliate or fight. Work on communication and understanding to avoid unnecessary confrontation. Doing this is not allowing anyone to run over you. 9) Give your man respect, if he has earned it. If you do not feel as though he should be respected, uhm.. why are you with him again? Ok. 10) Don’t deny your own needs to make yourself “easy to date” or to go with the flow. 11) Know that you are fierce and fabulous all by yourself, BUT you are a loveable, deserving masterpiece made by the creator, or whatever your belief may be. 12) Know that even in your job, you may need to be a hardworking, strong person, but you can epitomize the being of an intelligent, dignified, capable woman! I don’t have all the answers (#SWAY) but I have acknowledged that perhaps the way I have been doing things can be changed to allow bigger and better things to happen in my life. Maybe you’re comfortable living with IWS, #AndThatsOk. However, being in functional and loving relationships with the people in your life can make a world of a difference. Cure yourself of IWS today! What about you, do you suffer from IWS? Do you know anyone that does? Hit me up on Twitter - @_catalyseur. If not, as always, IT’S WHATEVA.

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