"...being kind to ourselves..."

"...being kind to ourselves is a pre-requisite to being kind to others." ~ Mark Nepo (The Book of Awakening).

Yesterday I went for my pamper appointment with The Massage Mogul, Rob of Just1Touch.
Ladies, I'm telling you, he is the one! Women line up at his door...literally! I met a group of friends yesterday who was vying for the #1 spot in his life (I'm not worried though...I know I hold that spot already  )

The prelude to being "touched" by the massage mogul

We forget to treat ourselves sometimes. We take care of our children, sometimes our parents or siblings, or even our friends, and we forget the people who need it most: OURSELVES!! 

It's like the analogy about being on an airplane, they always tell you to put on your own oxygen mask (God forbid you need it) before you help your child or anyone else, because to be of any use to someone else, you have to be of use to yourself.

There've been times when I've been beyond frazzled: snapping at the slightest thing, completely on edge, because I was stressed out. At one point in my life I didn't even realize just how stressed out I really was. I internalized everything and soon enough it took a toll on my body. Besides being a major crank and irritable majority of the time, I had chest pains and even started losing my hair! Yes, stress can cause loads of issues and when a trip to the doctor proved it was only stress, I realized I really needed to take better care of myself.

Inviting isn't it?

It doesn't take much either, just a willingness to want to be a better you. And trust me, I know it's difficult with families, full schedules and anything else you could think of, but honestly we find the time to do the things we really want to do. 

So promise yourself this very moment that you'll be kinder to yourself. Relax a little, laugh till your sides hurt, read that juicy book, have that glass of wine, forget your routine once in a while, be pampered and love yourself...totally!

Me after the massage....when I found my chi  

Ladies, ask for Will for Foot Reflexology and Fellas don't feel left out, Shakira* is on staff to do your massages.

*not the Columbian singer although this Shakira's hips probably don't lie either. 

Riri, Nicki and J'Nell

I picked up Rihanna's new album "Loud" and Nicki Minaj's "Pink Friday". I was a little surprised that there was no parental advisory warning on Riri's album but I listened to it alone juuuuuuuuuust in case. The very 1st song is "S&M"; very rock n'roll/ pop but uhm have you seen the video?? yeeeeeeeeeeahhhh uhm...Well let's just say Riri pushed the envelope on that one; it's already been banned in 11 countries...need I say more?

Besides the popular "What's my name?" and "Only Girl (In the World)", I like quite a few of the others...

"Fading"

"Man Down"

"Skin"

and "Cheers (Drink to that)" gets me started on my weekend...lol

Then there's my fellow Trini, Onika Maraj, a.k.a. Nicki Minaj. I haven't been able to listen to Nicki Minaj's much; the content is pretty heavy and it's one of those albums I'd have to listen to again but so far I like "Fly" and "Save Me".

And speaking of music/videos, my cousin J'Nell is a young hot videographer based in Brooklyn. She's recorded some of my performances (if you check out her website there's footage of Omarion, DJ Spynfo and Gwen Stefani to name a few) and she recently landed TV and Radio personality Egypt as a client). She covers parties, weddings, promotional purposes etc....for more on her work and contact info, please click here.

Football Fever !

This past Sunday was nationwide madness as millions tuned in to watch the Superbowl!  "Super Bowl XLV between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Green Bay Packers, became the most-watched American television program in history, drawing an average audience of 111 million viewers" (wikipedia). I think it was reportedly watched in 175 countries?...crazy!

Anyway I'd be lying if I said I was into football. I like the Patriots because Tom Brady is cute -- although I'm not feeling his new Robbie Ray/ Hannah Montana's dad hairdo (and yes that's how I choose the team du jour - level of cuteness)...as for the Steelers, my son told me to (one of his fave teams)...but that doesn't mean I'm not getting into the sport.
It's exciting! The adrenaline in that stadium on Sunday was palpable as we watched the game at home!

And of course the much-anticipated perfomances and commercials.
This year Christina Aguilera sang "The Star Spangled Banner" and messed up the words...listen, it must be nerve-wrecking to be up there singing THAT song in front of millions!!! Christina, you held your own, you didn't run off crying or pee yourself (which I have to remind myself not to do) so you get a pass from me.



I must say though, that noone has been able to top Whitney Houston's version...whether they say it was pre-recorded or not...



My 2nd fave performance of the National Anthem would be Ms Beyonce...



My fave commercial this year was Eminem's Brisk. I usually root for the E-trade babies and there were some other funnies as well but I really like Eminem's little angry self...lol...


Superbowl facts: "Advertisers pay as much as $3 million for a thirty-second spot". It is also the 2nd biggest food-consumption day in the US...2nd to Thanksgiving (wikipedia)

Ain't nobody...

...loves me better...

You could never be in a bad mood with this song...

Good Times...

Heading out to celebrate one of my besties' birthdays

At Patria Lounge with Ana (birthday girl) and Johanna (the other bestie)

I totally blame the sangria !

Raspberry Almond Cheesecake...

...flavor created by yours truly for Cakes Galore by Sheila!

mmm mmm mmm BUSTED...

...Diamond scraping the remnants of cheesecake off that knife

Lo Mein styled cupcakes...yes CUPCAKES people!

I know, I know, take a minute to wrap your head around it...all edible confectionery!

courtesy Cakes Galore by Sheila

mmmm cupcakes...sharing one with my little buddy Hannah

Cupcake? What cupcake?

See? This is why you don't give kids sugar!

"One need not lose hope"

I follow Jane Fonda's blog and her recent post was interesting to me. It's about her meeting Stephen Hawking.
I had no idea who he was but when Jane mentioned that he is a "great physicist" despite the fact that he's "had ALS for 50 years" that peaked my interest.
Matter of fact, I didn't even know what ALS was ("Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, often referred to as "Lou Gehrig's Disease," is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord").
Stephen Hawking has written a book, several scientific papers etc and his story is really touching. After reading this, you will re-think the word "can't"...and according to Stephen "one need not lose hope".

Read about Jane's meeting with him:
MY MEETING WITH STEPHEN HAWKING Jane Fonda

And click here to read more on Stephen Hawking and how he found out he had ALS.

When life throws you snow...

...chill beer!

This winter has been brutal! The blizzards, the icy rain, the lack of parking...so while I shovel snow and scrape ice off my car, I might as well enjoy a cold one!
I heard that stupid groundhog didn't see his shadow...SO looking forward to Spring!

Just to share...

...found some pics and thought I'd share with you...

Was feeling this lipstick...luv MAC !

Why we can't be left alone with a camera...lol

Cherry cheesecake from Cakes Galore by Sheila...mmmmm

^^ I think Marilyn (Monroe) was on to something

Bitten by the Bieber Bug!

Yesterday I went to the movie screening of Justin Bieber's "Never Say Never". I know he's cute and talented but so are millions of other kids. I couldn't understand what the whole craze was about, "Bieber Fever" and all that, so I figured I'd check it out.

I took my son and a friend of his (who is an absolute fan!!!). As we waited for the movie to begin they played Justin Bieber songs, and the only thing these excited girls didn't do was raise their cell phones and started swaying from side to side! For a minute I thought I was at a JB concert! They knew every song, some of them had their Bieber books with them; I mean the buzz in the room was definitely tangible!

But after having watched the movie, I HAVE to admit, I too have been bitten by the Bieber bug!

The kid is awesome! Not only is he a cutie, he sings, plays several instruments (guitar, piano, drums and trumpet), but he's also humble and well-grounded, and his family seems to be very loving and supportive. And his fans?? LOYAL!!!! When I heard about his fans threatening Kim Kardashian I thought it was funny, but his fans are not kidding AT ALL!! The little girl I invited knew every single detail about the Biebs and when I mentioned that she might be his #2 fan, given the competition in the room, she gave me this look that really made me fear for my life!! lol

One of the souvenirs which his #1 fan took...

She is pictured holding this sign but I cropped her out of the photo in case other fanatics read this...lol  

It's a very inspiring story and if you're not a fan, this movie might very well change your mind.

What I wanna know is...

WHO PISSED OFF MOTHER NATUUUUURRRREEEEE?? O M Goodness! This snow is driving me CRAZY!! Back to back like this?? Everytime I think that's it...MORE SNOOOOOOOOOOOWWW!

The driveway this morning

I'm knee deep in it...

well on the bright side, it's better than being knee deep in...

Look at the van...yes, that's a van

Any other morning I have to wake him for school -__-

yes, he's in his pj's

hey don't judge me!

And there's supposed to be more this weekend...and next week...and aaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!

SOTU (State of the Union)

President Obama

(Wiki images) 



Did you watch the State of the Union address last night? Chances are you did, and it certainly was the trending topic on Twitter and Facebook!

I am always so impressed by President Obama's dignified manner; a shining example of maintaining his integrity despite the odds. I wasn't feeling Mr John Boehner AT ALL (The Speaker of the House); his body language reeked of attitude and at times he looked as though it was painful to clap... but that's another story.

President Obama touched on some very core topics, especially the structure of education in this country. I was at home saying "mmmhhhmmm, Amen!" to most of what he said because right now that is a major concern for me (I am noticing a rapid decline in academic standards at my son's school). Not all teachers are teaching anymore, they are "data presenters" or "facilitators" as one parent said to me. There is an acceptance of mediocrity in today's society and it is infiltrating the schools. According to President Obama, "when a chid walks into a classroom, it should be a place of high expectations and high performance".  If we don't have that foundation, such an elementary level, what is going to happen to future generations?

Speaking of future generations, my son thought it funny that the President received major applause when he mentioned Google and Facebook lol, and when the business owners were addressed, he turned to me and said "you know he's talking to me right mommy" (yes he sells school supplies to his friends...and pretty much anyone with a dollar lol...see here) 

This generation comes out the womb knowing how to operate computers, ipads and allllll the latest in technology. The days of aspiring to receive that pension and gold watch are looooong gone. This generation is changing the rules, changing the game and blazing their own trail. However, every generation stands on the shoulders of those who came before them...are we giving our children the support they need?

There were many other things the President addressed which I won't delve into here but you can check out the White House website for more info and footage of the speech.

By the way, did Michelle Obama rock her silver ensemble or what? You were working the hair and the Riri nails Lady O  ...and that's another thing before I wrap this up, critics are all over the First Lady's style, commenting on every outfit, every hairstyle...let me just say this, y'all are lucky that I'M not First Lady ok? Vacation in hot ass Arizona? Yes I'm breaking out the poompoom shorts and flipflops! I ain't about to DIE of heatstroke to please y'all. And if I FEEL like traipsing around Spain for 3 - 4 days or 2 weeks for that matter, none of your business!! After supporting my household and being the buffer from all you vultures out there, shoot I'd run with the damn bulls out there if I wanted to but luckily America, y'all have Michelle Obama as First Lady and not me!

HAPPY B/DAY ANA!!!!

Sometimes you meet people in life who are tell-it-like-it-is people; realistic, genuine people. When you do, treasure that person, because in a world where people are afraid to be honest with you or even more detrimental, with themselves, a true friend is someone to hold dear.
There is no room for ego; they will be there as you cry, they will share the smiles and the good times, heck even something as simple as a really good cup of coffee and a very crude joke lol.
When you find someone like that, don't take them for granted, be thankful for them because it is one of life's most precious gifts.
Happy birthday to an awesome chic...my friend, Ana!

(Also wanna say Happy birthday to my friend Wendell who's secretly an Oprah fan...admit it Wendell, just admit it! lol)

"...even the deepest pain will pass."



Finally my copy of "The Book of Awakening" came in the mail. I saw it on Oprah (no, I am not in the book club WENDELL lol) and I was compelled to check it out.
I thought it would be a fairly quick read but it's more of a daily inspirational guide. I'm not quite sure how I feel about it yet but I'm going to read it as intended (daily) to get the most out of it.

Some of the phrases or quotes are so powerful to me. I have learned (and am still learning) to let go, to live authentically (hey there IS only one me ;) and no matter what grief you are experiencing - death of a loved one, you're heartbroken, whatever it is, "even the deepest pain will pass."

So as I read this book, I'll sprinkle a few quotes here and there in my blog but I urge you to get a copy, read it yourself, and hopefully you get something poignant from it too.

Peace.

Moving on up...

Robert and I

For 10 years Massage Mogul, Robert Ballatt, has been in business. He is the magic (hands) behind Just1Touch, his mobile spa company.
I met Rob at a mutual friend's party. He was, as always, working, and was offering massages. At first I was hesitant about getting the massage, as was other females there. Everyone was just enjoying the party and kinda chilln' really, then eventually they started taking turns with Rob (so to speak).
One by one females disappeared behind closed doors with him, only to emerge looking like they were in some kind of orgasmic trance!! I began to wonder "What the HECK is he doing in there??".
Matter of fact, lemme have a double dose of whatever SHE just had please!!!

Women would come out of the room smiling, eyes glazed over, hair tousled but noone complaining (and you know 'sistas' don't play with their hair!), just happy...a lil toooo happy!  So I went into the room to investigate myself...
 
...moments later I too was hooked on Rob!
 
 

At my birthday party, Mandy Mania, last year.

Just1Touch did the massages, and pretty much took care of us.

 
Ladies let me tell you!!! If you have never had one of his massages, book an appt NOWWWW!!!!
Self-conscious? Nervous? Hesitant? Trust me on this...one massage from this man and you will be singing a completely different tune! (And trust me, a few of my friends could testify!)
 
 Recently Rob was acknowledged in Together As One, in a Black Entrepreneur Spotlight. Read article here
 
So Robbie Rob I want to say "CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!". You are living proof that hard work, passion and drive are keys to success. Keep moving on up, hold steadfastly to God and best wishes for many more years of success.
Much luv!
 
Visit http://www.just1touch.com/ to schedule an appt with the Massage Mogul himself, or to book your pamper party!
 

"Girl, Get Your Mind Right!"

Last weekend I finally had a chance to visit "Loveys"...a new ultra-feminine boutique in Brooklyn, owned by Tionna Tee Smalls...yes, the sassy chic trying to help Chilli find a man in VH-1's "What Chilli Wants".

I wasn't able to make the store opening but I was lured there, not only out of curiousity, but also because Tionna is one heck of a marketer! She is the perfect example of using Social Media to the fullest! She's on Facebook, Twitter, on tv...shoot, I have her right up there with Diddy when it comes to promoting, and trust me, Diddy can pretty much sell you the air you breathe!



With Tionna in Loveys

The boutique sits "pretty in pink" right in the heart of Bed-Stuy, and when I asked her about the color choice, her reason was just that: for every female to enjoy the experience of shopping in Loveys; to feel pretty, sexy, feminine (plus she loves the color! lol)

Peep the mannequin...it's really used to display just the accessories but I felt like I should order the "outfit" as a costume for Trini Carnival this year...hey, don't judge me!

Marilyn Monroe featured in the store as well as many other "divas"

Lil Kim ("gotta rep for Bklyn" as Tionna said), Ms Diana Ross, Pam Grier, and more

I wondered why Tionna chose the pictures she did and she said because they are "all strong women, all divas", and she is very passionate about young girls having someone to admire. She wants any little girl out there to see that it is possible to become successful no matter what the circumstance. She grew up in East New York and now owns a boutique, has written 2 books, and fulfilled one of her dreams of being on television.

 

Here I am with one pair of the earrings I bought from Loveys.

 

And anyone who knows me knows how much I love little details.

The earrings I bought came in this little satchel, in the cutest shopping bag...

...presentation is everything!

I was so impressed with Ms Tionna and her fiery determination to succeed that I bought her new book "Girl, Get Your Mind Right!". It's a funny, interesting, quick read. You feel like one of your girlfriends is talking to you, RAW... brutally honest, but exactly what you need to hear.  

Pick up your copy now, and if you're in the Brooklyn area, check out Loveys located at 377 Marcus Garvey Blvd, Brooklyn NY 11221.

Heyyyyyyy I'm baaaaaaaaaaaaaaaack!!!

2 weeks into 2011...how you guys doing? All is well in my world and looking forward to a great year (God Willing).
I was hibernating... a little ...over the holidays and I must say, it was a well-spent staycation!
Here's a glimpse...

I asked Santa for something special from this store...

...all I got was a used car salesman's #

Was drafted into a studio

Made Bread Pudding...was creative with this one :0 lol

My poor sis trying to find North...

...as we were lost in the "Himalayas"

Had girl time with my 2 loves

More friggin snow -_-

And opened the New Year with fam & friends at Sheila's Sunday Dinner.

She spoils us......clearly! :)

Here's to a great year (yes I'm holding up my wine glass lol)...I hope you enjoy every moment, every breath, every Blessing, every day !
Much luv,
Mandy