Archives for March 2017

March 20, 2017

The Mane Choice brings you Ancient Egypt

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If you have read my blog recently, I found a great shampoo line called  The Mane Choice. I have been using The Mane Choice for quite some time now and having nice results. The line has offered features for my hair such as detangling, softening, extra shine and strengthening. The Hair Mask was amazing!! You can imagine how excited I was to learn of another line they have, The Mane Choice Ancient Egyptian Anti Breakage and Repair Antedote.  As soon as I see “Anti-breakage” I know I am going to try it. After all, I want to keep as much of my hair as possible. Pony tails, headbands and decorative combs and hot appliances have caused breakage to my hair and I have a few split ends that I want to get rid of now!

The Mane Choice Ancient Egyptian Anti Breakage and Repair Antedote line consists of 5 products; Shampoo and Conditioner, Hair Mask (used every 1 t 2 weeks), Oil which I use often for fabulous softness and shine, and a Split-End Treatment Serum. Right off the bat let me tell you they smell amazing. You will get the benefits of the tropical scents while washing and conditioning your hair and afterwards, with the split end treatment, Oil and Hair Mask. This Ancient Egyptian line is excellent for repair as well as prevention so everyone in the family can use it no matter what their hair type is. I love how my hair looks and it feels soft as ever.  I am loosing a lot less hair in the shower and not a split-end in sight.

As stated by The Mane Choice, “During the ancient Egyptian times hair was something that was considered a personal and important method of self-expression, and from the high positions of the pharaohs to the lowly servants, a great deal of thought was put into the way that they wore and cared for their tresses. Ancient Egyptian Anti-Breakage & Repair Antidote Collection has come close to duplicating the most historical formulas used during the ancient Egyptian era. Filled with some of the most rare and robust natural oils such as Kalahari Oil, Oleaster Oil, Mongongo Oil, and Baobab Oil to strengthen, repair and add remarkable shine.

My younger daughter loves the Split-End Treatment Serum too! I’m sure it won’t be hanging around the bathroom too much longer. Ancient Egyptian Anti-Breakage & Repair Antidote Split-End Treatment Serum is formulated to replenish and prevent split ends. Loaded with fatty acids omega 3,6,and 9, this powerful serum willleave your hair stronger, shinier and healthier. The Serum penetrats deep within the layers of the hair shaft and prevents and repairs cuticle damage. The serum really does work.

Ancient Egyptian Anti-Breakage & Repair Antidote Shampoo & Conditioner gently cleanses and conditions your hair helping to protect and repair damage.  I use the shampoo and conditioner every time I wash  my hair. They both contain fatty acids omega 3, 6 and 9, reduces frizz, reflect damaging UV rays & protect hair from the sun, helps to replenish hair & fight against split ends and strengthens and moisturizes. All great qualities when choosing the perfect shampoo and conditioner

Of course, the older I get the more I notice my hair becoming dryer and fragile, the Ancient Egyptian Anti-Breakage & Repair Antidote Hair Mask does the trick for me. It is the best one hour spent deep conditioning. After the mask treatment, my hair feels great, I feel great! The hair mask contains all the properties the shampoo, conditioner and serum do. The mask gives you added moisture for much stronger hair. You won’t know the difference until you try it.

Ancient Egyptian Anti-Breakage & Repair Antidote Oil (Retention Oil) is a perfect choice if you adore Hot Oil Treatments. I choose to add a little bit of oil to my scalp every few days for the shine and the smell. Like I stated earlier, the oil smells amazing. My daughter could  smell the tropical scent on me which was a big reason for her trying the serum.

Ancient Egyptian Anti-Breakage & Repair Antidote are formulated WITH Signature K.O.M.B. Oils (Kalahari Oil, Oleaster Oil, Mongongo Oil, Baobab Oil)

Ancient Egyptian Anti-Breakage & Repair Antidote is formulated WITHOUT Mineral Oil, Petroleum, Parabens Sulfates or formaldehydes.

You can find The Mane Choice Collections at their website www.themanechoice.com, Target, Walmart, and other large retail stores nationwide.

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March 20, 2017

Luscious Lashes

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I have always wanted long lashes, but we can’t always get what we want.  Or could we?  Well, before you answer that let me tell you about Kawaii Girl Cosmetics.  KGC has all kinds of eyelashes!  Ooh, I have a pair called Roppongi.  Ladies, they are so long, light and lush. You can’t help but feel glamorous when you are wearing them.  You are just batting those eyes at everyone.  They are made from human hair which makes them so soft and light.  They are 100% handmade and if you treat them right they can be reusable.  So, yes you can get what you want.  You can be that wide-eyed doe, go ahead Bambi or anything you desire.  Kawaii Girl Cosmetics has three different collections, By Day, Nightlife, and Whimsical.  Check out the website kawaiigirlcosmetics.com . You will see they have lashes for all occasions and get this, free shipping.  What are you waiting for?  Go get you a pair of long, luscious lashes.

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March 19, 2017

Rock your Posture

When it comes to looking your best, a small change can often make a huge difference. Correct posture is of utmost importance when you want to look good and manifest self-assurance to the rest of the world. If you want to rock your look then start with good posture.

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(BRITTAN TAYLOR & MAGGIE O’BRIEN ABOVE)

Standing up straight projects a strong sense of self. It gives you an exquisite appearance. It is also sexy to have good posture. People with great posture are the kind of people others want to be around — and want to be.
If you slouch, stop. Get into the habit of walking erect, as if a string is pulling your head from the top. It might be tough, or feel strange or uncomfortable at first. But soon your body will adjust.

The truth is, poor posture can lead to problems down the road. Slouching can create a rounded back and shoulders, and lead to long-term pain and degradation of connective tissue through misalignment of the vertebrae and the interspersed necessary vertebral disks. A rounded back projects low self-esteem, as well as poor physical health and fitness. It also makes one look old.

Example of the way a person can look when the posture is poor.

Example of the way a person can look when the posture is poor.

I have a young friend who hunches over, which makes her come off as if she is withdrawn and tired, and lacking in self-worth. It makes her stomach pouch out. Standing tall — a small change — would make a huge difference in her overall appearance.

Good posture will help you ooze confidence and youth. In addition, it helps with proper breathing, improves circulation, instantly slims you, enhances the health of your spine and eases your muscles and joints. Plus, it totally changes your frame of mind. When I stand tall, I feel like I can take on the world. So I strut my stuff.

Look at yourself in a full-length mirror, or in the reflection of a window as you walk down the street. Now, pull your shoulders back. Make a conscious effort to stand and sit straight. It may take some time, but you will eventually have strong, correct posture that make you look and feel healthy, happy and confident.

Just take a look at any of the celebrities on the red carpet and you will notice how they project themselves with good posture.

And that my, friends, is beautiful.

Donna Spangler "Good posture will always convey a positive image"

Donna Spangler “Good posture will always convey a positive image”

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March 19, 2017

Ava Kaufman: A Heart Transplant Didn’t Get In The Way of Keeping Her Glamorous!

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Ava Kaufman has been through a lot in her life. A former professional dancer working alongside iconic superstar Gloria Gaynor, to being a single mother while undergoing life-saving heart transplant surgery, Ava is beyond extraordinary.

Now fully recovered from her surgery, Ava has created and turned her non-profit charity organization Ava’s Heart into one of the top ones in the country for organ donors.

While still raising her daughter, working out daily, and running her charity, Ava continues to look and feel glamorous! We caught up with Ava at her Hollywood home to find out more…

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Nick Northstar: How would you describe your own personal fashion style – both while at home and while working?

Ava Kaufman: My style at home is, for sure, very casual. I usually wear workout clothes, leggings, a t-shirt and sneakers. I am really into sneakers these days! I even love wearing them with a little dress or jeans. They come in so many styles and colors. I love the brand APL; so comfy. As for work, it depends on what the day holds. I might be in jeans and either high or low boots and an elegant top. If I have to dress it up, I usually go with an elegant, classy little dress and short boots, or fabulous slacks, or Elaine Kim leggings with a silky top and jacket. This past season I have been into coats as well.

NN: The word Glamorous can mean many different things… what is your definition of it?

AK: In the dictionary ‘glamorous’ means “an appearance of enchanted attractiveness”. I think that glamour first has to come from within. It’s the way you feel about you and how you carry yourself, how comfortable you are in your body, not really what you wear. I think it’s also knowing what looks good on your body and not overdoing it. ‘Glamorous’ to me is simple and sophisticated, elegant even in sneakers. Dress for yourself, no one else!

NN: How do you stay so glamorous & fabulous while running around as a busy mother and founder of a charity organization?

AK: It’s all about knowing what looks good on you, the way it hangs on your body, what colors work for you, and being comfortable. I must interject here that my daughter Jade is 19 and pretty much takes care of herself. However, there are days that I am on the go from am to pm. I like clothing where all I have to do is change my shoes and put on a different color lipstick and I can go all day knowing that I am wearing something that makes me feel good and that shows off my best parts. That’s why I love Elaine Kim. And then I breathe! You have to breathe.

NN: Do you feel more glamorous now after your transplant and finally healthy again, or more so before in your professional dancing days?

AK: This might shock you but I feel more glamorous now. That is because I have never been so confident and clear about my purpose. I don’t sweat the small stuff and I truly come from gratitude every day, no matter what is going on. I am not so caught up in what other people think and I’m not trying to be what I think people want me to be. ‘Easy does it’ and ‘one day at a time’ gives one a certain elegance that comes with knowing who you are.

NN: What is your advice to anyone wanting to pursue their dreams, whether early on in life or later in life?

AK: I say if you are fortunate to truly have a dream, go for it. Age doesn’t matter at all. Be aware that nothing is easy and it takes courage and patience. Don’t listen to anyone’s doubts, they have nothing to do with you. Have faith and don’t push too hard. Work hard, do your homework, and believe in miracles. Make a plan and follow it. Stay on track and have such confidence in yourself that all the no’s that may come your way are just small road blocks. I have made many of my dreams come true. None of them were easy. The one I am pursuing now is the most challenging of them all. This time around I have more faith and total determination. Sometimes pursuing a dream can lead to another dream. Go out and make your dreams come true!

NN: What advice would you give other transplant patients who are not feeling so great and fabulous as they await their name to be called upon on a transplant recipient waiting list?

AK: One of the things that most transplant patients deal with awaiting transplant is knowing that in order for them to live, someone else is going to die. I think that knowing that ‘souls go to heaven, organs don’t’ is a simple way to think about that. I thank my donor family many times during every day.

NN: What has been the biggest life lesson you have learned over the past several years?

AK: To enjoy each day and never take anything for granted, stop and appreciate the day, and love from the depth of your soul. Be grateful, as life is such a precious gift!

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March 17, 2017

Aesthetic Nurse, Jill Caruso Shares 5 Terrific Winter to Spring Tips

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FROM THE PROS:

As we say goodbye to the Winter season and hello to Spring, there are important beauty tips and tricks to keep in mind to ensure your beauty regimen continues to thrive through the transitioning seasons. New York City based Beauty Expert Jill Caruso of Fox Vein Care, has come up with the perfect Winter to Spring beauty tips to ensure vibrant skin.

Harsh weather conditions in the Winter can bring anyone’s skin woes, so as the first bud of spring blooms there are a few things to keep in mind. Jill is a Board Certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialist and her distinctive background in medicine, design, and skin esthetics gives her a unique approach when analyzing a patient’s face and determining an individual treatment. She suggests the following for Winter to Spring flawless skin:

Do not forget your sunscreen – This is not an option, but an essential everyday necessity, regardless of weather, to protect your skin from UV radiation. Also, contrary to popular belief, SPF ratings higher than 30 do not offer more protection and no sunscreen can block more than 97 percent of UV rays.
Be sure to moisturize daily – Moisturizing your face will help you to look and feel younger, resulting in softer, more elastic skin… not to mention it will keep your skin hydrated.
Wash your face every night – This is vital, as it removes not only makeup, but the dirt and dust that accumulates throughout the day. Outside elements as well as makeup clogs your pores with dirt, dust, smoke, etc., however, Jill suggests that soap-less cleansers are okay occasionally as they can act as cleansers with nondrying agents.
Light Chemical peels can be great for the season change – There are lower UV levels during the winter, making it optimal for recovery and an ideal time to prepare your skin for the forthcoming spring season.
Lastly, when it comes to makeup, less is more – People often tend to overdo it on the winter. Heavy foundation, mascara, and lipstick often ages women.

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March 17, 2017

Lais Ribeiro Wears Lili Claspe!

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LOS ANGELES – March 15, 2017 –  Lais Ribeiro shared a photograph on Instagram wearing Lili Claspe jewelry during a Victoria’s Secret shoot! The model posted a sexy selfie with fellow model Elsa Hosk wearing Lili Claspe’sEllie Choker in Gold ($70, www.lilicaslpe.com).
Photos courtesy of Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laisribeiro
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March 17, 2017

Sharing a morning with the gals at Good Day Charlotte

FOX GDC Enya Flack

The spotlight is on: Dr. Marder Skincare, Chi, La Tweez and more.

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March 17, 2017

We always love spending time with Jamarcus

A nice photo of me and Jamarcus on set at Studio62… (one of Lisa’s Favorite photos)

 

Enya and Jamarcus Studio62

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March 14, 2017

SPRING INTO SPRING!! 7 Ways to Be More Optimistic

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FROM THE PROS:

We set the clocks ahead for daylight savings and many of us woke up to a darker sky feeling sluggish thanks to a one hour loss of sleep. If you hit the snooze, pulled the covers up over your head still feeling bummed out about your waistline, bank account, career or love life, you’re not alone. Despite more daylight our worries will still be there. So how do we spring into spring, a season that’s all about new beginnings and rebirth? For practical ways, to cultivate optimism in our lives we turned to Dr. Sanam Hafeez, a NYC based licensed clinical psychologist, teaching faculty member at the prestigious Columbia University Teacher’s College and the founder and Clinical Director of Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services who shares these tips and tools.

1. Focus on the good.

“A daily exercise I often have my patients do is keep an appreciation or gratitude journal. When you focus on all the things to be happy for in your life then more great things come. Think generally and use your senses. What do you appreciate seeing, smelling, touching, tasting, listening to? Write it down. Within a few weeks you’ll train the mind to pivot to an appreciate thought when a negative thought comes,” explains Dr. Hafeez.

2. Make plans.

Making plans to see relatives, to see a new exhibit a movie or to travel gets our mind moving forward towards something positive that we can be hopeful and optimistic about. Dr. Hafeez suggests making plans to do 3 things per month for the next 3 months. “Choose things that you know will bring you joy and then go do them! Feeling excited about what is coming and talking about how fun it will be keeps us optimistic and forward moving,” says Dr. Hafeez.

3. Control what you can, delegate the rest! 

We get pessimistic and worry about the worst possible outcomes when we realize that we cannot control every detail. This leads to anxiety and an even stronger feeling of having to control conditions, and even others. According to Dr. Hafeez, this is a trap. “Figure out what needs to get done. What actions you can take. Then let go of anything else that is beyond your control with faith that everything will turn out fine. Envision the desired outcome,” advises Dr. Hafeez.

4. Limit your news watching and avoid it before bed. 

“There is a very common pattern I see people falling into,” says Hafeez. “People awaken and immediately reach for their smartphone for news headlines. They then turn on the TV news as background noise. They listen to news in their cars, have news alerts going off on their phones all day, catch the evening news and then the 11pm news before bed. No wonder they’re less optimistic! What you choose to look at will impact your mood. Remember, good news doesn’t get ratings,” she adds.

5. Don’t snooze. Instead just breathe.

When the alarm goes off give yourself a few minutes to just lie there, eyes closed focused on your breathing. Breathe in counting to 4 and then breathe out. Do a mental scan of your entire body from head to toe thanking your cells for restoring you as you slept. “Deep breathing is a form of meditation and in the morning, you have a small window of opportunity to decide what kind of day you want it to be,” says Dr. Hafeez.

6. Distract yourself with something that requires focus.

The key here is to pick something you truly enjoy doing and do it daily. It can be painting, coloring, yoga, a 20-minute walk or jog, listening to music and dancing around your living room. “When you are fully engaged in something, you can’t ruminate which leads to pessimism,” explains Dr. Hafeez.

7. Make feeling good top priority.

When you commit to feeling good you instantly start to think more optimistically. According to Dr. Hafeez, when you’re mindful of your own negativity and shift to a better feeling positive thought you feel powerful. You’ll feel like you can conquer anything when you can master your own mindset.

Dr. Sanam Hafeez PsyD is a NYC based licensed clinical psychologist, teaching faculty member at the prestigious Columbia University Teacher’s College and the founder and Clinical Director of Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services, P.C. a neuropsychological, developmental and educational center in Manhattan and Queens. 

Dr. Hafeez masterfully applies her years of experience connecting psychological implications to address some of today’s common issues such as body image, social media addiction, relationships, workplace stress, parenting and psychopathology (bipolar, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, etc…). In addition, Dr. Hafeez works with individuals who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), learning disabilities, attention and memory problems, and abuse. Dr. Hafeez often shares her credible expertise to various news outlets in New York City and frequently appears on CNN and Dr.Oz.

Connect with her via twitter @comprehendMind or www.comprehendthemind.com

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March 13, 2017

Stefanie Scott Wears Emma Jane Designs and it’s under $30

AUSTIN, TX - MARCH 11: Actress Stefanie Scott attends the "Small Town Crime" premiere 2017 SXSW Conference and Festivals on March 11, 2017 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for SXSW)

AUSTIN, TX – MARCH 11: Actress Stefanie Scott attends the “Small Town Crime” premiere 2017 SXSW Conference and Festivals on March 11, 2017 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for SXSW)

LOS ANGELES – March 13, 2017 – Stefanie Scott was photographed wearing Emma Jane Designs while at SXSW! The actress kept it simple pairing her red jumpsuit with the Seed Necklace in copper ($28 www.emmajane-designs.com).
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