Facebook Pet Peeves

My love for Facebook (FB)  has grown over time. In the beginning, I signed in once in a while, but now access it quite a few times daily. During this increased use, I have also gathered several pet peeves that I would like to share. They are:

1. Clicking certain links. Don't you hate it when you accidentally hit a link you're not really that interested in? It becomes further frustrating when it doesn't open or refresh quickly.

2. When you ask FB friends to "like" a page and they instead "like" your comment. FYI, when a FB friend asks you to "like" their page, page being the emphasized word, they mean please search Facebook for a separate page. Usually they will tell you the name of said page and/or include a link for you to click. Once you have entered the new page click "like."

3. Private jokes for the public. If it's so private, why are you putting it online and making everyone else curious?

4. FB friends that use the status field like it's your private message space.

5. This last one is a doozy...FB warns you not to request friends that are not your real friends.

With all of that said, you must learn to take the good with the pet peeves. Oh, in case you were wondering, yes I do have a Facebook Page.  It's called Alice Benton, Writer and Author. Please click "like" and join the fun. Here is a link to make it easy. http://www.facebook.com/pages/Alice-Benton-Writer-and-Author/169108496452965

Please forgive me for being shameless.


*Posts you may enjoy:

Social Media Place to Find Alice
Social Network Crushes
Twitter

This I Know About Life

Life is an ever changing experience.  There are things in it that are clearly coming, there are also wildly unpredictable events.  Life itself provides a classroom for constant learning and we as people need to make certain lessons stick.

I have learned about many different subjects, but this I know about life.  It comes down to three things basically.  First, life is what it is. Fair or not, sometimes there are things that simply are out of our control.  So pray often, and focus on that which you can change. Second, life also was what it was.  Embrace the truth about it because history will not going to change.  Third, the possibilities for what tomorrow will be are endless.  Think about what you want out of life and work hard to assist the onset of that reality.

Trust God and know that it's never too late for new direction.


*Posts you may enjoy:

God is in Control
Life Learner
Regrets
What's On Your Agenda?

It's All About Accessories

Do you need a wardrobe boost, but cannot necessarily afford to run out and shop?  Maybe you have the money, but are looking for something a little different to spruce things up.  Either way, a new way to put a shine on an old item is simple because it's all about accessories.

Find a great accessory and your new look problems are over.  I love trying to do something different.  Anyone can slap on a great set of jewelry, but changing up what you already have can be difficult.  So challenge yourself to think outside the box!

For instance, lets say you had one of those three-strand necklaces that look great together, but lost or broke two.  If your like most, you haven't thrown away the single necklace because you love it.  And you never wear it because it doesn't look that great on it's own. Well, wear it as a bracelet.  Wrap the jeweled rope around your wrist as many times as it will allow and even them out.

Here are some other helpful hints.  Select your favorite belt and wear it in varied ways.  Sometimes over a beltless dress or over a blazer. Consider wearing it high one day and low around the hips another, that is if it's long enough.  Apply an old broach to a necklace or scarf. Also, take all of those pocketbook straps that you never use and really look at them.  They make the perfect belts and you already have bags that match!

Remember, the solution to a problem is often right in front of you. This time it might even be in your jewelry box or closet.  Apply a unique perspective so you can see things different and create the look you want.


*Posts you may enjoy are Shoes and Bags in your Closet, Jimmy Choo Sandals and What Makes You Feel Attractive?

Chef Yu

The Chef Yu Restaurant located in the garment district at 520 8th Avenue in New York City is a treat.  This chinese restaurant prides itself on being authentic. While I honestly don't know what authentic chinese food tastes like, I do know the food served in this place is delicious. 

The ambience is lovely.  The simply elegant table settings are complimented by gentle lights and there are few booths available as well. It has a cozy feel, even though, parties are welcome.

I have frequented this restaurant and no matter what I eat my delicate palate is satisfied.  I only have one rule, which is to also order dumplings and a scallion pancake for the table.

Mark Chef Yu on your list as a place to visit.  You can start with the website, which is www.chefyu-nyc.com, but it's better in person. 



* Posts you may like are Village Natural and A Small Step Towards Heart Health

Shoes and Bags in your Closet

Since you've been cleaning out your closet, shoes and bags need to be discussed as well. If you're lucky enough to have one of those Mariah Carey closets, kudos, but this is not for you. This advice is for those who have a small to medium closet whose space is a precious commodity.

A quick fix to solve the problem of no shoe real estate comes down to two things. Those two things are stackable shoe boxes and instant photos. Regardless of how they look, the boxes must be stackable to improve upon usage of your vertical closet space, as opposed to horizontal. The instant photos are to take a picture of your shoes to place on the outside of each box. Keep in mind, even if you buy clear boxes the shoes are not always clearly visible, especially when space is limited. So you will still need to take a picture.

When it comes to the storage of purses, I like to display them on the top shelf of my closet. That makes them easy to match up with the perfect outfit or coat. I also have a wood wardrobe where pocket books are lined up on the top. When showing bags outside of a closet always leave the nicest ones out to add to decor. Never hang a purse on hooks because it can add to wear and tear. If the bag is delicate or loses shape with ease, I like to stuff it with tissue paper when not in use.  

Also, if you have high end bags and shoes in your closet, it is always best to store them in the pouches provided when not in use.


*Posts you many enjoy:

Real Cleaning
Jimmy Choo Sandals
Cleaning out your Closet

Beauty in Pain (Upcoming 2011 Book) Update

Beauty in Pain is Alice Benton's upcoming 2011 novel.  Beauty in Pain has been on the road to publication.  It was sent for an editorial evaluation a few weeks back and now has returned.  While it received quite a few kudos, thankfully, many interesting suggestions were given.  After reading the evaluation and giving it some serious thought I went back to work.

I have been focusing on the suggestions.  To take or not to take? That is the question.  The answer is layered inside this fascinating book, Beauty in Pain.  I'm so excited!  My anticipation grows as it moves closer to the release.  Stay tuned!


*Posts you may enjoy are Beauty in Pain Excerpt, Another Beauty in Pain Sneak Peek, and Beauty in Pain's Valerie Peterson.

I'm Blessed

Today was a "trying" day, to say the least. I had a mountain of things to get done, but a little bit of time to complete each task. I was determined to succeed, yet every step of the way an obstacle found its way to me. That's annoying, but not necessarily a problem because I see hurdles as challenges to do my best not as deterrents. Every time I lifted myself above an obstacle another appeared...oh, what a night.

I have noticed that whenever I'm feeling especially blessed negative situations arise. Negativity wants to reach me, but luckily my positivity bubble is hard to burst. At times, I feel lucky, but no, I've never been. I'm blessed and have been since before my parents ever thought about knowing me. I stand firm in that knowledge and no occurrence regardless of the type will ever make me feel different.

So I say to those things and people that literally try to knock me off my holy game. I forgive you, God bless you and be well.  

*Posts you may enjoy:

God is in Control
Regrets
A Prayer for My Readers

Jimmy Choo Sandals

The shift in the weather, outside of that snow we just had, made me wonder what do I need more of in my closet.  Well, I love a good sandal and then The Perfect Strappy Sandal was revealed.  

The Choo 24:7  collection is fabulous.  It has a wide variety and really knows how to make a gal stand out.  Two personal favorites of mine are the Paxton, which is excellent for a simple, but elegant look. And the to die for Magnum, it can found in the Cruise 11 collection.  

These particular shoes are not cheap, but they exude quality and inspire glamor. 

Weddings & Vera Wang and What Makes You Feel Attractive?

World Water Week

World Water Week is a special time allotted towards focusing on the water issues on our planet.  There are many things going on all over the globe regarding water, more likely, the lack of clean water.  This is always a problem but this week specifically there are extra campaigns demonstrating ways to help.

Want to do your part?  If you enjoy sitting down for a great meal with friends this might be for you.  Simply decide where to go out for dinner carefully this week.  Dine at a UNICEF Tap Project Restaurant and help further the cause.  You can also gather more information from Charity: Water Log, which is the Charity Water Organization's blog.  It has some exceptional information about water news.


*Posts you may like are Serve Humanity Through Charity Water, VDay Santa Monica 2011 and When it Rains it Pours

Regrets

Moving through life, people often have many regrets.  If it isn't about the one that got away, it's about not going to college or getting too serious and responsible too fast.  Time is wasted on wanting what you never had or not appreciating what you did.

The truth is, for whatever reason, you had to go through some things and not experience others.  Is that good or bad?  Unfortunately, you're uncertain, but you don't have to be.  Those things have helped to shape who you are and who you're becoming.  Trust in God, which means that even if you do not understand something you are well.

Know that you didn't miss anything because that "thing" was not meant for you.  How do you know it wouldn't have been horrific. Remember that the grass is always greener...as they say.  As far as having done wrong, learn from what you did and do better because guilt serves no one.  Last, it is never too late to do something good that would make you happy or better your life like going back to school. Whatever your positive dream is pursue it.


*Posts you may like are God is in Control and Ideas Should Materialize 

Weddings & Vera Wang

Now that Spring is here, so are fast approaching Wedding Days. With that said, the dress often creates the setting for everything else. Whether the bride-to-be will be wearing Vera Wang, or not, the truth is Vera's Wedding Dresses will come to mind.

White by Vera Wang is a stunning new line by the wedding diva herself, Vera Wang.  She has blessed chapel aisles with aesthetic gowns since her own nuptials and continues to do so.  What's exciting about White by Vera Wang, is that more brides will be able to obtain the dresses created by the couture queen.  They are affordable ranging approximately from $600 - $1500 and available exclusively at David's Bridal.

For those of you who do not need a wedding dress that okay because we still have Simply Vera available at Kohl's.


*A post you may enjoy is What Makes You Feel Attractive?

The 2011 Audi R8 Spyder

I believe I first began to fall in love with Audi when a childhood friend of mine was given one for his eighteenth birthday.  The love was further deepened many years later on the big screen during the movie Transporter.  Now, having knowledge of the the 2011 Audi R8 Spyder makes me think this it, we'll be in love for life.  Just as progress.audiusa.com proclaims, luxury has progressed, it has.

The2011 Audi R8 Spyder is absolutely beautiful.  It exceeded my expectations and the design is unreal.  Forgive me for sounding like a dude, but it has a very attractive rear end.  This vehicle also has 525 horse power and makes it from 0 to 60 in four seconds flat.  A feature I love is the microphone attached to the seat belt for voice control.  Makes the starting price tag of about $160,000 sound worth it.  Well, it doesn't get much better than that.

I'm sold, but in case you need more information it has a V10 engine, as well as a top speed of 195.  The soft top will retract in little as 19 seconds.  Vehicle progression is steadily moving forward at a miraculous pace.


*Another post you may enjoy is Mercedes Benz SLK Roadster - Another Valentine Suggestion

VDAY Santa Monica 2011

Alice Benton's Blog and Black Love are a proud sponsor of VDAY Santa Monica 2011!  VDAY is an organized statement against violence towards women, as it says in their Mission Statement.  Each year VDAY focuses on a specific group of women to broaden awareness.  This years focus is on women and girls in Haiti.

There will be a two day phenomenal event takes place on March 25 - 26, 2011.  Friday night are the V Men Monologues which will include Dylan McDermott, as well as many others.  Saturday evening will consist of the Vagina Monologues and the Red Carpet After Party.

For more information about VDAY Santa Monica 2011 visit www.vdaysantamonica.com.

Cleaning Out your Closet

Cleaning the house is one thing, but cleaning out your bedroom closet is an entirely different chore.  You may have things to toss or that are out of place in the house, but you know where they belong.  Spring Cleaning your home for the most part becomes about putting things where they actually belong, getting rid of access and junk while thoroughly sprucing up the place.  Cleaning your closet may take a little more thought.

There is another element to cleaning your closet.  Often you become attached to their clothes shoes and accessories, after all, you probably invested hard earned money and time into them.  For that reason, it may be easier to tackle the issues in your closet.  For instance, if you have too many clothes pushed up against each other so you cannot find an ensemble, get ready some pieces need to go.

First, pull each article of clothing from the closet.  This will make it easy to see what you have.  You will have to try on everything that you haven't worn in a while.  Second, as you look through everything start making piles.  This will help identify where things go when finished.  Pile#1 is for the things you absolutely love.  They feel great, look fabulous and bring you joy.  Pile#2 is for things that do not fit, but are in good condition to donate.  Pile #3 is for worn looking non-fitting clothing that will be thrown in the garbage.

Once you are certain everything is in the proper pile put everything from #1 back in the closet placing like items and colors together. You'll notice an immediate difference.  Next, put pile #2 in a box to donate to charity.  Last pick up pile #3 and trash it!


Another post you may be interested in is Real Spring Cleaning.

Social Media Place's to Find Alice

While I also would like you to always visit me here on Alice Benton's Blog, I can be found other places as well.  They are the following:


Facebook Fan Page - Search for Alice V Benton, Writer and Author to "like" my page.

Twitter - Follow @AliceBenton

Myspace - Friend me at Myspace.com/Author of Black Love


Also, my website is coming soon - alicebenton.com


* Posts you may enjoy are Old Fashion Social Networking, Pages on Alice Benton's Blog, and Social Networking.

Alice Benton's Blog Reader Appreciation

Today, I wanted to share with you how rewarding writing can be to a writer.  Many of my blog readers have blessed me with behind the scenes emails about how Alice Benton's Blog has affected them.  I love knowing that I have helped or inspired some of you.  You are appreciated too.  

Below, is an email that truly touched my heart.  It was in response to the God is in Control post.  I have shortened it, as well as edited it for privacy.  It read:

Alice,

I read your blog and was moved by the spirit of God which flowed in its words.  God is so good and confirms His word using some of the most unlikely ways to show Himself.  Today, He used you. 

Reading your blog reminded me that no matter what my plans may be, God is the one who is in control.  He set my path a long time ago and to its end I must follow His will.

Please honor me by considering me your friend, one concerned for you and your families well being.  Someone pleased to see our God working so strongly in your life.  I will keep you in my prayers as I pray you do the same for me.

*Posts you may enjoy are Beethoven - Love Letters of Great Men,  Life Learner and One Mother's Letter to Her Children.

Saint Patrick's Day

Alice Benton's Blog wishes you a very happy Saint Patrick's Day! Regardless of whether you attend a parade or stay at home wearing green, enjoy.  This religious holiday has been around for thousands of years making its appearance during Lent.  God bless us all, but especially the Irish and the Irish hearted!

Spring's Blockbuster Museum Shows / nycgo.com

Spring's Blockbuster Museum Shows / nycgo.com

Recently Opened Restaurants / nycgo.com

Recently Opened Restaurants / nycgo.com

Saint Patrick's Day Parade Information

New York City's 250th Saint Patrick's Day Parade will be held Thursday, March 17, 2011, according to www.st-patricks-day.com.  The parade will begin at 44th Street, on 5th avenue, at 11a.m. and it will conclude at the Metropolitan Museum about 5 p.m. The st-patricks-day-.com website also provides other parades that are happening throughout the month of March to continue the celebration.  You can also find great information about the day itself.

Another great resource is http://nycstpatricksparade.org/, listed as the official website.  They supply the latest news.  Also, if you cannot make it to the parade you can view it on this site.  

The Ides of March

March 15th, also known as the ides of March, always reminds me of Julius Caesar.  Shakespeare's phrase, "beware the ides of March" is infamous for its negative connotation; the day Caesar is killed and betrayed.  This date is also historically attached to many other wonderful happenstances as well.

Today there are a variety of ways to incorporate plays like Hamlet into your life. You can read a play or rent both old school and updated movie versions on DVD.  That way the story becomes alive making it easier to get children interested.  In my house it's a positive excuse to explore the many great tragedies like Julius Caesar that William Shakespeare gave to society.

For more information on things that happened on this date here is a link to an article I enjoyed.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/03/15/ides-of-march-2011_n_835983.html#s253846&title=1985_The_First

A Prayer for my Readers

Thank you for blessing me and my words with your time.  I appreciate it more than you know.  I hope you receive my post in the spirit that they are intended, which is with love.  It is my wish to entertain and enlighten you and I hope to fulfill that in my books as well.

Dear Father,

I ask You to please bless and protect the person that reads this, as well as those they love.  Surround this person in Your love and grace. Fill them with happiness and peace.  May they feel and be better spreading joy to all they encounter.  Hold them in Your arms and address any and all issues they may have, in Jesus' name, amen.

God is in Control

Today has been a reminder of sorts. In fact, the past weekend has been full of surprises that left me without proper sleep. Tonight I laid down to take a nap and my body took the rest it needed; six hours worth. I'm thankful, but the schedule I placed myself on was interrupted. Often, life has its own way of doing things.

For me, it was a nice and subtle reminder that God is in control. Yes, I have my plans, but there is a power greater than me that is in control of it all. I humbly and respectfully submit to You Father. This is why I am never alone because when I can see no other, God can still see me.


*Posts you may enjoy:

Regrets
Ideas Should Materialize
When It Rains It Pours

It Takes Two

When it comes to relationships it takes two.  Couples are always ready and willing to take the glory when it comes to success, but what about failure.  Where relationships are concerned that still requires two people as well. 

More often than not, one part of the duo has done something to set a collapse in motion.  That person may have behaved inappropriately, but what was happening.  Was something going on?  Or missing?  Of course, a partner that breaks a promise is at fault because adults should be responsible for their actions, but something, examined or not, was already wrong to get to that point. 

Take into consideration what’s really going on, if necessary.  However, if you are no longer in the “bad” relationship, reflect on the whole story; forgiving them and yourself for whatever part you may have played.  Forgiveness doesn’t mean you condone what happened or will partake in more of it.  It means that you are free of it because you have given the burden to God.

Good Company

Keeping good friends are important because the company you keep can influence your state of mind. Take a moment and think about your group. Are they nurturing and supportive of each other? Or, maybe you’re a go-getter whose chosen circle doesn't appreciate less time between meetings. There are different levels of friendship, but your closet circle must be picked wisely.

 

The people you spend the most time with can have a great impact on your way of thinking. Your mind is a powerful tool. Protect it by casting negativity aside. Surround yourself with people that represent positive qualities like love, respect and support.

 

While looking at your buddies traits, don’t forget to examine your own. Your characteristics matter just as much as theirs. Don’t forget that you are an imperative part of the friendship too.    




*Posts you may enjoy:


Choices
God Gift
Ups & Downs

Tsunami 2011

Alice Benton's Blog sends out prayers to all those affected by the tsunami.  God bless you all!

Who is Gwyneth Paltrow?

Lately, everyone has been asking who is Gwyneth Paltrow?  Stars often become so easily recognizable for the one thing they do or a specific style, but not Gwyneth.

Generally speaking she's the daughter of a producer and an actress. She has also long been noticed as an award winning actress, although, she has become much more than that.  The new and improved Gwyneth is known for cooking, as well as singing.

What's next?  Maybe a more birthdays campaign?  Gotta love the idea.  Someone should suggest it.


Country Strong

When it Rains it Pours

Ever have something bad happen, only to find that another negative thing followed?  Haven’t we all?  Learn how to effectively weather the storm.  Life can be a challenge, but it isn’t something you cannot survive.

All people have an internal source of resilience inside of them.  Meaning you can get through anything that comes your way.  The unfortunate truth is you're not always aware that you possess such a thing.  Well, you do!

Now that you have this knowledge, look for it when necessary.  Don’t say, “I can’t take this!”  Another wonderful fact is you can.  You may not want to handle some things, but you can.  You are stronger than you ever knew.

 

You may not always feel powerful, but you are.  God breathed strength into you the day you were made.  When you’re tempted to not be able to “take it” say “I may not want to take this but I can and I will survive it because I am strong.”




*Posts you may also enjoy are Distractions and Working Through Adversity

Cafe Lou's

Every first Friday, Cafe Lou's has an open mic night.  Cafe Lou's is located at 3060 Boston Road in the Bronx, NY.  The cover charge at the door is only $5 and there's a bar inside, as well as a place to eat.

I attended the event this month and it was really something to see.  I really enjoyed the show.  There was a great emcee by the name of RIP Michaels, as well as DJ Hollywood, a poet, rappers and even a singer.

The Big Man Entertainment (BME) All Stars flexed there presence in this showcase. Everyone was good, but among my favorites were the poet, known as Info and Beau Bostic.  Grand also held his own while performing, although, he is not with BME, he was very entertaining.  Not a bad way to spend a Friday night.

 http://www.myspace.com/cafelous
http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.bigmanentertainmentmusic.webs.com%2F&h=31511

Male Characters from Women Writers: Writing for the Opposite Sex

To date, I have only ever gotten into writing one male character.  His name is Lem and there is an entire chapter in my upcoming 2011 novel, Beauty in Pain, dedicated to him.

 

I found the creation of Lem and his “voice” to be easier than I thought.  To tackle this fictional personality I referenced past history, stories I have heard, things I have seen and basic observation.  I did not focus on what I wanted him to say, how I wanted him to be or how this character could please.  My concern was purely how he fit into my story and was it believable.

 

After all, as women we know what men sound like.  So, I decided for the most part to trust my instincts.  I also had a male friend read that section.  He shared his opinion, as well as offered advice.  My friend mostly commented on inserting additional comments.  Some I agreed with and others took the story too far to the left.  This character is powerful and I would often down play him to position him correctly.

 

My advice to fellow women writers about their male characters is simple. First, believe in what it is that you know.  Believe me, you know more than you realize.  Second, abandon your need to fix him; making your character look perfect.  That isn't necessary because people are not perfect.  Third, consult other trusted writers.  Last, get a trusted male opinion while remembering it’s still your story.


Men, the same is true for you.  You've been talking to women you're whole life.  Accessing those previously held talks are where you start for the voice of your women characters.

*Posts you may enjoy:
Behind the Scenes Fact about Beauty in Pain Character Lem
Beauty in Pain (Upcoming Novel) Character Introduction - Lem

Michelle Obama: 'We've Come A Long Way Ladies!'

Social Network Crushes

Have you ever developed a crush?  Most of us have at point or another in our lives.  The present day version differs from what used to be known as normal.  Crushes are now forming on our favorite social network sites like Twitter and Facebook.

Do you have a "friend" that you click "like" for instantly.  It almost doesn't matter what they say.  Maybe it's a tweet-heart that you go back and read all you have missed, only to reply to everything said.   Or is your media love showing through comment and bulletins?

I love social networks development, but feel that some people put too much personal information on the screen.  And, real cyber love makes me nervous.  Sites like Myspace are great, but some people are too comfortable on them for my taste.  All of that said, a little crush never hurt anyone.  Now, it's time for me to write a bulletin, update my status and tweet!


*Posts you may enjoy are Facebook Pet Peeves, Twitter and Old Fashion Social Networking.

Loving Life

Love your life. I know it could be better, but it could also be much worse. Bide your time by spending it with people that you love. Also do what you love.

 

There is an inner tranquility that spreads through the body when your world circles love. It offers you peace and delight. Not only are you blessed, you begin to bless others through your gift.  

One pleasure filled person equals another more joyful one because happiness can be infectious. Look into doing what you love. Then step back and see the blissful ramifications. 




*Posts you may enjoy:


Avoiding Bad Situations
Good Company
Positivity

Beauty in Pain Excerpt

To view other pieces of information about my upcoming book, Beauty in Pain, click its link in the label section.  Beauty in Pain also has a page that you can access by clicking the link at the top of this blog.

Excerpt

Rick, the resident family comic and warrior didn’t want to come to blows either.  Rick wouldn’t shut up, but for once, he didn’t want to fight.  He just kept saying, “If you want to hit me, just hit me.  I’ll let you have that.”  That was the first recognizable sign that this incident was changing the family.  Rick was growing up. Chuck was trying to hold on to his mother and the adults were crumbling at the seams, as they found out that June was located on the seventh floor. 

June was being taken care of in the Intensive Care Trauma Unit.  As they approached her room, the couple from the lobby was leaving it crying hysterically.  Their faces reflected horror.  Initially, Valerie ignored the disturbing glimpses being displayed on their faces.  She thought, damn, we should have known better.  They know June and we’re acting out in front of them.  Moving forward and remembering the uneasiness she just witnessed Valerie braced for the worst. 

They went in immediately to see June and this person lying before them was not recognizable to Valerie.  Her first honest internal reaction was one of relief.  She thought how do they know it’s her?  Maybe it’s not June, mix ups happen and for a second Valerie was privately joyous.  Admittedly, that was an awful thought to have because if it were not June, it would have been someone else’s sister, mother, daughter or niece.  Valerie would have been ecstatic, in that moment, if it were another person.  After staring at this individual for a while an uncomfortable familiarity began to rise.  Valerie could kind of see it – June’s face.  June’s features were emerging slowly and Valerie’s brief gleam of hope was diminishing.

                                                                                                                         - by Alice V. Benton

                                                                                                                            Beauty in Pain

                                                                                                                            upcoming novel

*Posts you may enjoy are Beauty in Pain Sneak Peek Quote and Another Beauty in Pain Sneak Peek

A Small Step Towards Heart Health

Did you know that heart disease is the leading killer in America?  Not cancer, HIV or even diabetes.  We need to pay attention to being heart healthy because that is the category where both sexes are losing the battle.  There are many ways to step up and do a better job, but I’m choosing to start small.  I have decided to eat oatmeal (a heart healthy food) most days for breakfast.

 

Both men and women should join together to make it their family’s first meal of the day.  Do it for yourself, but if you can’t do it for the ones you love.

Historically, Oatmeal has not been my first food choice, but now I find it absolutely delicious.  It’s also a fast meal that can move you out the door quickly.  Here’s how I make my morning oatmeal.  

Oatmeal Recipe

1/2 cup Quaker Oats Quick- 1 Minute Oatmeal
1    cup Mott's Original 100% Apple Juice
3    crumbled Walnuts
1    small scoop of Sun-Maid Raisins
1/2 tablespoon cinnamon 


Mix the oatmeal with the walnuts, raisins and cinnamon.  Bring apple juice to a boil then stir in the oatmeal mixture.  Stir while cooking for 1 minute.

Once you’re used to making it, make adjustments according to your own taste.  That’s when it really becomes scrumptious.


http://www.quakeroats.com/oats-do-more.aspx
http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/deaths.htm


*Posts you may like are Chef Yu, Village Natural, or view an old Fitness Challenge

Real Spring Cleaning

Once again, the seasons are changing.  It’s almost springtime, which means spring cleaning needs to be done.  This is the time when we freshen up all of those things we don’t do normally as the house is straitened.  That includes the windows, ground in dust around old fashion radiators and basement cleanings to name a few. The cleaning list is long and frankly we don’t always know what to do with some things.  So they find the way back to our attics.  Don’t fret because there are resources available.

 

We all know that the Salvation Army takes clothes, but they also take furniture and household items.  You can also schedule a pick up.  Business clothing can be donated to Dress for success at dressforsuccess.org.  O Magazine’s March 2011 Issue has a piece entitled Who Wants My _ _ _ _?, that offers an expanded list of things and places to donate, recycle or sale goods.  Another handy site is earth911.org.

I'll through in a couple of tip.  For dust that appears hard to lift, use a hard bristled handheld brush and scrub.  Use an old toothbrush for small hard to reach places like a radiator.  Whip up your best batch of cleaning solvent or use your favorite brand to soak the brushes and go at it.

http://www.use.salvationarmy.org/use/www_use.nsf/vw-dynamic-index/A41470197378A76285256D9B006C51C8?openDocument 

Happy Birthday Jo Ann!

Jo Ann O., Alice Benton's Blog wishes you a very happy birthday! Enjoy your wonderful day and God bless.  May all your hopes and dreams come true.

The Fitness Challenge Ends

Today, March 2, 2011, marks the end of Alice Benton's Blogs Fitness Challenge.  It was really hard, but worth it.  This is a great program.  It strengthened my body and helped me to be more energetic.  It's over, but I intend of continuing a life of fitness.  I highly recommend Jillian Michaels - 30 Day Shred.    

My total beginning weight dropped by thirteen pounds.  Which is great for me and accurate for what I did during the month.  If you would like more information about the preceding comment or to read about the fitness challenge please view the Fitness Challenge Page.  You may access it by clicking on its link located at the top of this blog.  For the final comments scroll down to the last statements.

It was a success!

Ideas Should Materialize

Ideas can be wonderful. Thoughts are the first step in making your dream manifest. Our positive goals were meant to become visible to the world. We were designed to make an optimistic impression on one another; improving our world.

Recently, I have encountered people that were unwittingly gravitating towards their goals. Ideas they helped along would materialize. Only to see the person reject it. Life was pulling them into a new and improved reality. Often, one they prayed for but never imagined could happen.

Don’t allow fear to run to the forefront of your mind and attempt a takeover. Reject panic and initiate self-control. The quality of your life will be enhanced because of it and so will your neighbors. Work towards what you want, prepare to receive it and embrace it when it arrives.




*Posts you may enjoy:


Regrets
God is in Control
When it Rains it Pours