Girls Slumber Party

Grown-Up Girls Stress-Busting Slumber Party

This is a great idea, plan one today! Invite Me!

Remember when your biggest problem was choosing a prom gown or letting the boy you liked know how you felt? Ahh, those were the days. Problems seemed so great, yet in the grand scheme of things, you really only needed a chocolate milkshake or a pint of Ben & Jerry's to assuage your every concern.

Now, with faster-paced lives, more personal and familial responsibilities and even greater problems, sometimes it takes more than a chocolate milkshake or even a gallon of Chunky Monkey could tackle.

For an easier take on life, women truly need to make time for their families, their friends, and essentially, themselves. The key to a successful balance is making time for these entities separately, resulting in a happier life with reduced stressors and a more relaxed outlook.

Family time and personal time can be arranged on a day-to-day basis, with special family meals and movie time, game time or special trips and outings together on the weekends. Bubble baths, naps, scrap-booking, baking and shopping provide nice options for alone time, while activities like yoga, Pilates and general exercise routines can be as good for the soul as they are for the body.

To complete the balance, women should keep in touch with friends and plan get-togethers at least once a year, but preferably more often. As people grow up and move on with their lives, it is common that many friends may find themselves miles and miles, and even states apart. This may call for an old-school approach to the common problems of womanhood.

So who says you're too old for sleepovers once you're married, anyway? Toss your cares to the wind and call up all your old friends and all your new ones in an effort to get the gang together for a night of relaxation, reminiscence and rejuvenation. Send the kids to your parents or your husband's parents house (or failing that, to their friend's house for a sleepover!). Dash out to the supermarket to pick up a few key snacks and ask each friend to bring a goodie to eat and a goodie for the soul.


Acceptable edible goodies for slumber party:

•Baked goods , especially cookies, cupcakes, candy, pastries, etc.
•Cheese and crackers
•Veggie tray
•Shrimp cocktail or other hors doeuvres
•Wine or other beverage of choice
•Pizza
•Tea and hot cocoa
•Other delicious foods

While it is nice to eat healthy and practice a diet all the time, sometimes a little snack here or there might not hurt. Be sure to offer both junk food and healthy food options in case your guests have just begun a new diet. Faithful standbys like ice cream and frozen treats may best be provided by the hostess.


Goodies for the soul may include:

•Photos and scrapbooks from your earlier days
•Home videos and especially videos showing each other
•Favorite movies, especially ladies movies
•Craft projects like knitting and crocheting
•Pedicure kits
•Manicure kits and plenty of nail polish
•Facials
•Aromatherapy
•Music
•lady magazines
•Board games and other fun activities

During your girls slumber party, relax and revisit your past. Spend time with your girlfriends the women who got you through all those tough times and influenced you enough to have even a slight impact on who you are today.

Take the time to go through photographs from years gone by. Enjoy every moment and take new photographs so you have more memories to hold dear. Watch an old favorite movie and reminisce about the days in college when the flick was your soul's medicine during every bad day or every break-up. Indulge in sweet temptations, even if this is the last time before you start your diet.

8 Foods You Should Eat Daily for Optimum Health

I believe in eating only fresh foods After 50 I believe we must take a different attitude in our eating. The years forward are crucial if we want to live happy healthy productive lives in our senior years. I read this article and felt to share this with all of you Fit n Fabulous Divas!! Being youthful and beautiful is just a small perk to the health benefits you'll receive.




1. Spinach - It may be green and leafy, but spinach is also the ultimate man food. This noted biceps builder is a rich source of plant-based omega-3s and folate, which help reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and osteoporosis. Bonus: Folate also increases blood flow to the penis. And spinach is packed with lutein, a compound that fights age-related macular degeneration. Aim for 1 cup fresh spinach or ½ cup cooked per day. SUBSTITUTES: Kale, bok choy, romaine lettuce FIT IT IN: Make your salads with spinach; add spinach to scrambled eggs; drape it over pizza; mix it with marinara sauce and then microwave for an instant dip. PINCH HITTER: Sesame Stir-Braised Kale Heat 4 cloves minced garlic, 1 Tbsp. minced fresh ginger, and 1 tsp. sesame oil in a skillet. Add 2 Tbsp. water and 1 bunch kale (stemmed and chopped). Cover and cook for 3 minutes. Drain. Add 1 tsp. soy sauce and 1 Tbsp. sesame seeds.


2. Yogurt - Various cultures claim yogurt as their own creation, but the 2,000-year-old food’s health benefits are not disputed: Fermentation spawns hundreds of millions of probiotic organisms that serve as reinforcements to the battalions of beneficial bacteria in your body, which boost the immune system and provide protection against cancer. Not all yogurts are probiotic though, so make sure the label says “live and active cultures.” Aim for 1 cup of the calcium- and protein-rich goop a day. SUBSTITUTES: Kefir, soy yogurt FIT IT IN: Yogurt topped with blueberries, walnuts, flaxseed, and honey is the ultimate breakfast—or dessert. Plain low-fat yogurt is also a perfect base for creamy salad dressings and dips. HOME RUN: Power Smoothie Blend 1 cup low-fat yogurt, 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries, 1 cup carrot juice, and 1 cup fresh baby spinach for a nutrient-rich blast.


3. Tomatoes - There are two things you need to know about tomatoes: Red are the best, because they’re packed with more of the antioxidant lycopene, and processed tomatoes are just as potent as fresh ones, because it’s easier for the body to absorb the lycopene. Studies show that a diet rich in lycopene can decrease your risk of bladder, lung, prostate, skin, and stomach cancers, as well as reduce the risk of coronary artery disease. Aim for 22 mg of lycopene a day, which is about eight red cherry tomatoes or a glass of tomato juice. SUBSTITUTES: Red watermelon, pink grapefruit, Japanese persimmon, papaya, guava FIT IT IN: Pile on the ketchup and Ragú; guzzle low-sodium V8 and gazpacho; double the amount of tomato paste called for in a recipe. PINCH HITTER: Red and Pink Fruit Bowl Chop 1 small watermelon, 2 grapefruits, 3 persimmons, 1 papaya, and 4 guavas. Garnish with mint.


4. Carrots - Most red, yellow, or orange vegetables and fruits are spiked with carotenoids—fat-soluble compounds that are associated with a reduction in a wide range of cancers, as well as reduced risk and severity of inflammatory conditions such as asthma and rheumatoid arthritis—but none are as easy to prepare, or have as low a caloric density, as carrots. Aim for ½ cup a day. SUBSTITUTES: Sweet potato, pumpkin, butternut squash, yellow bell pepper, mango FIT IT IN: Raw baby carrots, sliced raw yellow pepper, butternut squash soup, baked sweet potato, pumpkin pie, mango sorbet, carrot cake PINCH HITTER: Baked Sweet Potato Fries Scrub and dry 2 sweet potatoes. Cut each into 8 slices, and then toss with olive oil and paprika. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes at 350°F. Turn and bake for 10 minutes more.


5. Blueberries - Host to more antioxidants than any other popular fruit, blueberries help prevent cancer, diabetes, and age-related memory changes (hence the nickname “brain berry”). Studies show that blueberries, which are rich in fiber and vitamins A and C, boost cardiovascular health. Aim for 1 cup fresh blueberries a day, or ½ cup frozen or dried. SUBSTITUTES: Açai berries, purple grapes, prunes, raisins, strawberries FIT IT IN: Blueberries maintain most of their power in dried, frozen, or jam form. PINCH HITTER: Açai, an Amazonian berry, has even more antioxidants than the blueberry. Mix 2 Tbsp. of açai powder into OJ or add 2 Tbsp. of açai pulp to cereal, yogurt, or a smoothie.


6. Black Beans - All beans are good for your heart, but none can boost your brain power like black beans. That’s because they’re full of anthocyanins, antioxidant compounds that have been shown to improve brain function. A daily ½-cup serving provides 8 grams of protein and 7.5 grams of fiber, and is low in calories and free of saturated fat. SUBSTITUTES: Peas, lentils, and pinto, kidney, fava, and lima beans FIT IT IN: Wrap black beans in a breakfast burrito; use both black beans and kidney beans in your chili; puree 1 cup black beans with ¼ cup olive oil and roasted garlic for a healthy dip; add favas, limas, or peas to pasta dishes. HOME RUN: Black Bean and Tomato Salsa Dice 4 tomatoes, 1 onion, 3 cloves garlic, 2 jalapeños, 1 yellow bell pepper, and 1 mango. Mix in a can of black beans and garnish with ½ cup chopped cilantro and the juice of 2 limes.


7. Walnuts - Richer in heart-healthy omega-3s than salmon, loaded with more anti-inflammatory polyphenols than red wine, and packing half as much muscle-building protein as chicken, the walnut sounds like a Frankenfood, but it grows on trees. Other nuts combine only one or two of these features, not all three. A serving of walnuts—about 1 ounce, or seven nuts—is good anytime, but especially as a postworkout recovery snack. SUBSTITUTES: Almonds, peanuts, pistachios, macadamia nuts, hazelnuts FIT IT IN: Sprinkle on top of salads; dice and add to pancake batter; spoon peanut butter into curries; grind and mix with olive oil to make a marinade for grilled fish or chicken. HOME RUN: Mix 1 cup walnuts with ½ cup dried blueberries and ¼ cup dark chocolate chunks.


8. Oats - The éminence grise of health food, oats garnered the FDA’s first seal of approval. They are packed with soluble fiber, which lowers the risk of heart disease. Yes, oats are loaded with carbs, but the release of those sugars is slowed by the fiber, and because oats also have 10 grams of protein per ½-cup serving, they deliver steady muscle-building energy. SUBSTITUTES: Quinoa, flaxseed, wild rice FIT IT IN: Eat granolas and cereals that have a fiber content of at least 5 grams per serving. Sprinkle 2 Tbsp. ground flaxseed on cereals, salads, and yogurt. PINCH HITTER: Quinoa Salad Quinoa has twice the protein of most cereals, and fewer carbs. Boil 1 cup quinoa in a mixture of 1 cup pear juice and 1 cup water. Let cool. In a large bowl, toss 2 diced apples, 1 cup fresh blueberries, ½ cup chopped walnuts, and 1 cup plain fat-free yogurt.

Photos and article source: BestLifeOnline

The Wonders of Essential Oils

Peppermint, Anise, Myrrh, Frankincense, Vanilla…Just to name a few essential oils.

Aromatherapy is the practice of using volatile plant oils for the psychological and physical well being. These oils are called “Essential Oils.” In recent years it has become very trendy to have an aromatherapy session when you have your spa services. The benefits of aromatherapy have been so longed ignored, or viewed as mystical. But these plant oils were put here on earth by God to aid in the healing and comfort of the human body. The essential oils offer a wide and varied range of benefits, headache cures, relaxation, to open sinuses, allergy relief,antiseptic uses and more. Be careful when you are buying items that may say Aromatherapy read the label and make sure they actually contain an essential oil.

Essential oils can be inhaled or placed topically on the skin. The benefit of inhaling essential oils into the lungs offers the most to psychological and physical benefits. It triggers a reaction to the brain, also inhalation by the lungs helps release the therapeutic benefits faster. Physical application on the skin helps it to be absorbed into the bloodstream. The benefits of skin absorption benefits can be helpful with beauty, health and hygiene. *Whenever applying essential oils to the skin make sure they are diluted with a carrier*

Historically the ancient Egyptians and Chinese were the first cultures to use the practice of aromatherapy. They utilized the natural elements that God placed in the earth to give off healing properties. The list of essential oils is extensive. To learn more about the Essential Oils please send me an email for my free e-book, plusizediva@gmail.com. I am sure you will find a regimen that suits your health needs.


Here are some of my favorite websites that offer grade “A” quality Essential Oils:

http://www.fromnaturewithlove.com
http://www.wingsets.com
http://www.wingedseed.com
http://www/wellspringtrading.com

Loving being a Fit-n-Fabulous Diva
Qualita

What are you feeding your skin?

Fit n’ Fabulous Divas!

Our skin is the most important system of our body. The skin provides so many tasks to keep our bodies healthy and functioning, but it is the one body system that is often overlooked. To keep a youthful look over forty you have to start a regimen to feed your skin. Here are a few of my favorites that I use. My skin is soft, and supple with a youthful glow. When your skin is healthy your body is healthy and you will have a general euphoric feeling.

I use organic products only. The list I have prepared for you is an excellent source of nourishment for your skin.

Greenscape Products:

Organic Olive Exfoliating Salt Scrub $10.99-only pure plant oils and no mineral oils.

Honey, Rhubarb, and Mint Invigorating Body Wash $12.99-beneficial multi-grain goodness.

Orange, Corn and Fenugreek dermal feed bath soak $12.99

Organic Homemade Cucumber, Apple and Rice Bran facial mask $8.99

These products can be ordered at http://www.somerset-distribution.com Visit the “Our Brands” tab and select Homemade Greenscape Products. Let the healing begin!

Loving being a healthy Diva!

Natural Hair and Skin Products

Greetings!

Hey Fit n’ Fabulous Divas!

In the beginning of 2010 I decided to get healthy physically. I also decided to include a transformation in my hair and skin care. Many call this going “Natural.” I am enjoying this journey so much I have decided to share some of the awesome products I have come across with you.

My goal was to find products that would feed and nourish my hair and skin as I was feeding and nourishing my body. I have stopped all chemicals from my diet eating only organic foods. My health has drastically improved. My blood pressure has lowered, I have lost 50lbs and my good cholesterol has elevated. So in my search to stay consistent with my new healthy diet, I looked for organic homemade hair and skin products. The lists below are some of my favorite products, their websites and some price information. If you have any questions or comments feel free to email me plusizediva@gmail.com

http://www.Going-natural.com

This site has a great shampoo without chemicals and sulfates. I recommend Black Olive Soap; it smells awesome and leaves your hair soft and manageable. They also make a Silky Shea Butter. I use this on my hair and skin. Price ranges $10.00-25.00

http://www.oyin-handmade.com

This is one of my favorite sites. They make a hair pomade called “Burnt Sugar.” It soothes and nourishes the scalp and smells so good. I often use their shampoo called “The Grand Poo Bar.” It is a succulent solid shampoo bar that produces suds that will not strip your hair. Price ranges $10.00-$45.00

http://www.beautybydonnamarie.com

This site offers many natural hair and skin products. I use the MiraCurl Detangler, and Supper Buttercreme great for curls, waves, kinks, and coils. Price ranges 2 piece sets $25.00 – 4 piece sets $45.00

http://www.essentious.com

All of the products offer no sulfates, silicones, mineral oil, petroleum or parabens. I get lost in this site.

http://www.janellebeauty.com

Home of the “Diva” natural hair straightening system. If you like to have your hair natural but straight it is offered here. The system costs $49.99. The site also offers natural hair products for all textures of hair. Love it!!

http://www.noahsnaturals.com

Noah offers skin care products made from organic ingredients. They offer an excellent face regimen from prep to cleansing. They are reasonably priced.

Also don't forget Walmart they have alot of product offerings that are all natural.

I hope that you will take a moment and visit these sites you will surely find something you can use. I wish you a long and prosperous healthy life!

Loving being a Diva!

Qualita

Fit n' Fabulous Skin Care

Hey There!

I want to share with you all a Fit n'Fabulous skincare regimen for the woman over 40. I begin to notice that my skin was not as elastic as it used to be. There was no glow. So with a little investigation I developed a skin care regimen that has left my skin smooth, soft, supple with a youthful glow. I will share with you the products I uses and less costly alternatives.

To start I get a facial every three months. My favorite spot is Blue Mercury in Philadelphia 1707 Walnut st. My esthetician is Kimberly Murray she is awesome. An esthetician can help you address skin care issues and recommend products. After my facial my skin feels great with an awesome glow. Now for my daily regimen.

The A.M.

I begin with a facial scrub. My favorite products come from the Caudalie of Paris line. The price range starts at $12.00-$150.00 available at all Sephora Stores or http://www.sephora.com .
The scrub removes dead skin, impurities and blackheads. After cleansing the next step is moisturizing. I use Caudalie Energizing Moisturizer. These products contain grape seed oil.

Another favorite is Laboratoire Remede Alchemy product available at Bliss Stores or http://www.bliss.com Price range is $79.00-$382.00 This product contains grape seed oil, it smells great and leaves your skin so smooth and supple.

For the eye zone I use YonKa Phyto-Contour for puffiness and dark circles $56.00 available at Beans Beauty Store or http://beansbeauty.com

Here are a few less costly alternatives, St. Ives Apricot Scrub $2.99 at Wal-Mart stores, Vitamin E Cream by The Body Shop $10.00 and Garnier eye cream $4.99 at Wal-Mart stores.

The P.M.
I clean my face with soap and water. After cleansing I uses Caudalie Night Cream Complex &79.00 and Aquaphor Healing Ointment Advanced Therapy $4.99 at your local drugstore. The Aquaphor is a great moisturizer for your lips. It is important to keep your skin moisturized while you sleep, your pillow can be very drying on your face.

Less costly alternatives, use BIO-OIL $15.00 at Wal-Mart stores. This oil is great for age lines, wrinkles, stretch marks and dry patches. I love the smell and it l eaves your skin blemish free. I also like Oil of Olay Complete Night Fortifying Cream $10.00 at local Wal-Marts.

Well this is my regimen, I can guarantee if you follow this and drink plenty of water to hydrate your skin you will have healthy glowing skin even over 40.

The Plus Size Diva

Fit and Fabulous Over 40

I have been away for awhile, but I'm back. Stay tuned for exciting posts from me regarding being Fit n' Fabulous over 40. You can be a DIVA no matter the size or age.

Blessings!