Tuesday, June 30, 2015

American Culture Of Violence And The Little Pink Elephant


We are living in an ever-changing world, where people world-wide have their share of the effects of political decision-making most times beyond their control. Surely we could then understand why the demeanor of people change along with their circumstances.

We can certainly all attempt to live within the philosophy of Buddhism, whereby man is expected to live practically, practicing ethical conduct, mental discipline (through meditation) and exercising wisdom. Or maybe even live as the Dalai Lama of Tibet, who's primary focus is living with compassion, forgiveness, tolerance, contentment and self-discipline.

Yet the truth of the matter is, with a multitude of beliefs or dis-beliefs we are left with a mirage; a fallacy if you will, of people conducting themselves according to their impulsive responses to their environment; which brings me to the state of the American people, living daily in a culture of violence.

I could get all in to the gory details from an analytical/philosophical perspective of people and behavior and the effects of a violent society, yet I'm not going to bore you with the details of such study. Simplistically enough, an experience I had just today with a customer led me to question why people respond in the ways that they do.... Let me provide you with the scenario (briefly, I promise).


SCENARIO:

I had an online customer a few days ago contact me as she was irate, that the bracelet that she purchased from me with the cutest little pink elephant attached, did not fit her daughter. I felt so bad about it as this was a birthday gift, that I immediately refunded her money and asked that she send the bracelet back and I would adjust for her at no cost at all. Essentially it was my gift to the customer for the inconvenience of the circumstances. Well...I didn't hear from her... Quite naturally, I gave her a few days so that she could respond, and nothing. When I checked back with her today via email, questioning her motives, she ranted, she complained, she fussed, she gave me a poor review, she stated that she was insulted by my inquiry...and lastly, she was reporting me to the e-commerce co. hosting my shop.

Let me get this straight: You have a free bracelet and you are insulted, thus immediately proceed to abuse me (???)

A shopping terrorist indeed! And I was the victim of her rage.


You see... when living in a culture of violence, one may come across several people in a day who are ready to decapitate you for something as simple as purchasing a little pink elephant.

At the end of the day, we are all held accountable for maintaining harmony, order and balance, in our lives, so that the construct of a violent existence does not eat away at our souls from day to day. We can not wait on any political figures, nor religious entities to save us from ourselves. It is a conscious decision to maintain sanity in the midst of an incestuous pool of bestiality.

Moral of the story...? Make purple the new pink!

Go Ahead & Click The Orange Button:

Sunday, June 28, 2015

Can You Say, Yummmm?



Foods that make you say Yummm....

Summertime And Still Working? Leave The Office And Drift Away


For many of us, tomorrow starts the "dreaded" work week. Yes, some of us are still dangling by a thread, working for others....It's rather insulting isn't it? I myself am working very diligently to sever ties with the 9 to 5 schedule, that can so very easily become 7am to 7pm (or longer!!!) You see, that's how those jobs work. Nine to five is only a myth.

At any rate, take time out this coming week (if you are not already on vacation) and envision yourself on a magnificent tropical island. This way, when the burdensome people approach you with their nagging requests, you can say, "Oh, huh...did you say something? I wasn't paying you any attention on account that I was sipping on my berry daiquiri. Here...hold my umbrella."

Yes folks, never envision your colleagues in your daydream. It will only spoil the mood.

Go Ahead & Click The Orange Button:




Saturday, June 27, 2015

Khepera Adornments, LLC: Save 10% Off On Men's Jewelry, Summer Sale!

Come join us and partake in the Summer Sale on Men's Jewelry. Take 10% off your next purchase at Khepera Adornments, LLC. Use Coupon Code: UNIQUE2015 It's easy! Just click the Etsy button to the left! www.KheperaAdornments.com

Friday, June 26, 2015

U.S. Supreme Court Approved Same Sex Marriage Nationwide


Looking slap happy in that photo young lady... That's because, in a landmark opinion, a divided Supreme Court ruled Friday that States cannot ban same-sex marriage. This means that gay rights activists have won an all-time victory in the United States. Who would have thunk it? The 5-4 ruling had Justice Anthony Kennedy writing for the majority with the four liberal justices. Did he even know what he was doing? Apparently he did! This decision settles one of many civil rights fights of this era.

Here's Your Key Players Of The 5-4 Ruling



Chief Justice Roberts, Jr. states, “If you are among the many Americans — of whatever sexual orientation — who favor expanding same-sex marriage, by all means celebrate today’s decision,” Chief Justice Roberts wrote. “Celebrate the achievement of a desired goal. Celebrate the opportunity for a new expression of commitment to a partner. Celebrate the availability of new benefits. But do not celebrate the Constitution. It had nothing to do with it.”

The Windsor Decision
http://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/12pdf/12-307_6j37.pdf

A second decision on the same day, U.S. vs. Windsor induced the movement for same-sex marriage with what ended up a landslide in majority decision. It essentially scattered the part of the Defense of Marriage Act that barred federal benefits for same-sex couples married in states that allowed such unions.

NY Times reports that the Windsor decision was based partly on federalism grounds, with Justice Kennedy’s majority opinion stressing that state decisions on how to treat marriages deserved respect. But lower courts focused on other parts of his opinion, ones that emphasized the dignity of gay relationships and the harm that families of gay couples suffered from bans on same-sex marriage.

Decades of litigation and activism would have it that public opinion with utilization of polls indicate that MOST Americans now approve of same-sex marriage. (Really....most???) Hey, why not believe all that is told to you!

It's an ever-changing world my friends, and the U.S. is surely making attempts to be the state-of-the-art jump-starter for change.

And with that being said...

Go Ahead & Click The Orange Button:

Self Awareness: Know Yourself (This Makes Total Sense)

Artist Of Obama 'Hope' Picture Faces Arrest For Felony In Detroit


So it seems that artist Shepard Fairey has gotten himself into a little trouble. The nerve of him to vandalize the streets of Detroit with his mural of President Barrack Obama's portrait of "Hope" on a building which caused a whopping $9000 worth of damage. The Detroit Free Press, reports that Fairey faces two felony counts of malicious destruction of property and was issued the warrant which was filed last Friday. Fairey can potentially face up to five years in jail, as well as fines that could exceed $10,000. Whoah!

He is being called names such as "vandal" and "artist of terror". Well that's not fair.

So let me get this strait: An artist potentially attempts to beautify the streets of Detroit and faces jail time? Ummm, let's take a look at Detroit streets shall we?


As a disclaimer, all of Detroit surely does not look like this, however, I'm sure the upper echelon of neighborhoods were not about to be graced with "Hope" serving as an incentive to the wealthy to seek the face it. Ya feel me?

Fairey....Keep "Hope" alive. Hope you have the cash to bail yourself out of jail. In the meantime...stop vandalizing.

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Tuesday, June 23, 2015

How To Ward Off Anger In An Aggressive World: Don't Be The Terrorist Within


Let's face it. In a world filled with anger, where we can so easily find reasons to be angry, it's no wonder we don't just walk up to people and just bop them over the head merely for existing.....right? This is how we should conduct ourselves on this Earth...correct? After all, food prices are going up, healthcare is diminishing, people have different hues of pigmentation, that bitch down the road purchased the last pair of designer jeans in my favorite department store.... Yep, those are indeed all solid and valid reasons to be angry for long periods of time.

Go ahead. Let me see your best grimace.


Oh for goodness sake, not that Grimace!! See now I'm getting angry. See how easy that was? Just get angry and all of your problems are resolved.

If that is your philosophy on living, I can tell you now that your lifespan diminishes with each adrenaline rush. The truth of the matter is, that anger can cause increased anxiety, high blood pressure and headaches. Moreover, there are a host of adverse health conditions that can arise when one decides to continuously let their blood boil. Here are some to name a few:

-digestion problems and abdominal pain
-insomnia
-depression
-skin disorders (i.e., eczema)
-heart attack
-stroke

Taking A Spiritual Approach Can Help Reduce Sporadic Anger Attacks

One of my all time favorite spiritual leaders, Eckhart Tolle, who's profound teachings have changed the face of societal thought and behavior theorizes that anger can be considered "spiritual ignorance". While Tolle does not diminish the legitimacy that people find in selecting to be angry, he suggests that one should accept the situation as such, and recognize the condition for what it is. "There's vast amounts of evil still happening on the planet, which means suffering--humans inflicting on other humans, on other life forms, on the planet itself, on nature."

Rather than feeling angry, Tolle says to feel compassion. "You can come to a place of compassion when you see that people are unconscious. They don't know what they are doing" he states. "Once you see that, you can come to a place of compassion for those people who are still controlled by ego and who are acting unconsciously."

So now that we have had our "ah-ha" moment, let's get down to the real work. According to the Mayo Clinic, they have provided a few suggestions to helping bouts of anger.

Ten Tips To Tame Your Temper:

1. Think before you speak

In the heat of the moment, it's easy to say something you'll later regret. Take a few moments to collect your thoughts before saying anything — and allow others involved in the situation to do the same.

2. Once you're calm, express your anger

As soon as you're thinking clearly, express your frustration in an assertive but nonconfrontational way. State your concerns and needs clearly and directly, without hurting others or trying to control them.

3. Get some exercise

Physical activity can help reduce stress that can cause you to become angry. If you feel your anger escalating, go for a brisk walk or run, or spend some time doing other enjoyable physical activities.

4. Take a timeout

Timeouts aren't just for kids. Give yourself short breaks during times of the day that tend to be stressful. A few moments of quiet time might help you feel better prepared to handle what's ahead without getting irritated or angry.

5. Identify possible solutions

Instead of focusing on what made you mad, work on resolving the issue at hand. Does your child's messy room drive you crazy? Close the door. Is your partner late for dinner every night? Schedule meals later in the evening — or agree to eat on your own a few times a week. Remind yourself that anger won't fix anything and might only make it worse.

6. Stick with 'I' statements

To avoid criticizing or placing blame — which might only increase tension — use "I" statements to describe the problem. Be respectful and specific. For example, say, "I'm upset that you left the table without offering to help with the dishes," instead of, "You never do any housework."

7. Don't hold a grudge

Forgiveness is a powerful tool. If you allow anger and other negative feelings to crowd out positive feelings, you might find yourself swallowed up by your own bitterness or sense of injustice. But if you can forgive someone who angered you, you might both learn from the situation. It's unrealistic to expect everyone to behave exactly as you want at all times.

8. Use humor to release tension

Lightening up can help diffuse tension. Use humor to help you face what's making you angry and, possibly, any unrealistic expectations you have for how things should go. Avoid sarcasm, though — it can hurt feelings and make things worse.

9. Practice relaxation skills

When your temper flares, put relaxation skills to work. Practice deep-breathing exercises, imagine a relaxing scene, or repeat a calming word or phrase, such as, "Take it easy." You might also listen to music, write in a journal or do a few yoga poses — whatever it takes to encourage relaxation.

10. Know when to seek help

Learning to control anger is a challenge for everyone at times. Consider seeking help for anger issues if your anger seems out of control, causes you to do things you regret or hurts those around you.


Remember, blowing a gasket, just ain't cool. So take a chill-pill and,

Click That Orange Button:






Monday, June 22, 2015

5 Easy Ways To Lose Weight Fast


It's really not as challenging as you think to take off unwanted pounds. While rapid weight loss is not the healthiest form of losing weight, doesn't it sound promising?

Well it doesn't hurt to take off a few extra pounds with these simple techniques, which surely will steer your health regimen in the right direction. Always, always, always, seek consultation first from your healthcare provider before embarking on any change in diet or exercise geared toward weight loss. So Let's Get Started.

No. 1 Just Say No To Salty Snacks:

Step away from the snack aisle. The temptation to walk down that aisle is just too much to bare, so just don't do it. Your cravings will decrease if you don't lay your eyes on those evil little colorful bags that create extra pounds.

No. 2 300-Calorie Breakfast Please!:

A healthy mix of protein and whole grains is the best way to take control of those extra calories. Natural peanut butter on whole wheat bread or a small bowl of oatmeal with fruit will fill you up without having the added sugar or cholesterol that other breakfast-types may provide.

No. 3 Do The Dishes Dance:

Whether you are washing the dishes (if not utilizing a dish washer of course) or folding laundry, be sure to multi-task and move. I tend to march around at home to each room that I enter, do some sporadic crunches, or park my car several aisles away from the market I intend to shop in. Intervals of additional movement will create gradual tone to the body, and your clothes just may fit better.

No. 4 Super Foods For Super Health:

Yes, yes! Green leafy vegetables will help you lose weight. You have permission to load up on spinach,collard greens,kale, broccoli, to name a few. These are all your friends. They can identify with your mission and get to work right away. All you have to do is eat up!

No. 5 Water, Water, & More Water

Water has zero calories and carbs and little to no sodium. This makes it the perfect slim-down drink. And phenomenally, it actually helps flush out excess water weight as well as jump-starts your metabolism. Add a dash of flavour such as adding lemon wedges, cucumbers or mint leaves to spruce your water up. Or just gulp it down as I tend to do. Try and substitute your other beverages for water within just one week and watch the difference it makes in the way you feel and look.

So now that you're looking all good, do the happy dance!


Go Ahead, Click The Orange Button:





Thursday, June 18, 2015

Be Kind To Your Prostate & Tomatoes Are Your Friend: Men's Sexual Health From The Woman's Perspective

How Much Do I Really Care About My Sexual Health & Drive?

I would think that the sexual health of a man should be top on his priority list, should he maintain an interest in successful sexual performance. As a matter of fact, according to WebMD, "studies" have shown that men under 60 think about sex at least one time per day. That's it???? Naaaah....!

I think those "studies" may be a tad conservative, as I would imagine that men not only think about sex several times per day with an added bonus of arousal, but also make attempts to venture out to satisfy those very natural urges.

Nothing wrong with that....right? Certainly not. Yet I would say that along my journey, when talking to men's female counterparts, the actual execution of erection may not always correspond to those desires to perform. Oops! I'm sorry. Did I give away a secret?

That's right! Your "stud" in the bedroom may not be performing as he may project himself to be doing so. Meanwhile, he may be out in the community, bragging to his peers. He may even think he is performing well in the bedroom, while his partner lay there in sheer disappointment.
"When I said we needed more magic in our marriage....."



Many times, particularly in casual dating situations, the man may never develop a close enough relationship with the women he dates, that would have them tell him, "Dude.... you really need to see about that thing, 'cause something ain't right..." Okay, well maybe he wouldn't deserve such an announcement in that manner. But essentially what I'm saying is, women have silently encountered situations with men they are dating or even married to, where the performance of their man was less than desirable due to either erectile dysfunction or penile curvature that creates a burden in the bedroom.

Whew! Okay...I got it out. Yes my friends! And I'm talking the men are experiencing this phenomenon at very early stages in their lives. (Late 20's, 30's & 40's). Not sure what your thinking...but that's a problem. Moreover, it seems that the men either don't notice this as it regards their penises, or they think it's a normal process in the construct of aging.... NOT! And their mates are just....dealing with it. Not cool.

Peyronie's Disease

For the sake of conservative imagery, I've provided a piece of fruit to represent the male's tool to sexual satisfaction (and procreation of course). Moreover, it shall symbolize the very unfortunate curvature of the penis, that some men experience, while women suffer in silence in pain as they must endure the wrath of the curve.

For those who don't know, Peyronie's Disease (according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases), is a disorder in which scar tissue, called a plaque, forms in the penis. The plaque builds up inside the tissues of a thick, elastic membrane called the tunica albuginea. The most common area for the plaque is on the top or bottom of the penis. As the plaque builds up, the penis will curve or bend, which can cause painful erections. Curves in the penis can make sexual intercourse painful, difficult, or even impossible. Peyronie’s disease begins with inflammation, or swelling, which can become a hard scar.

So now that we have covered that somewhat uncomfortable description, I would say that the purpose of describing it, is essential as both partners should pay close attention, and be very aware of the subtle changes that may occur over time with the body as a whole.  It is absolutely essential to ensure good health. In this particular case, some changes in the body are not simply from a natural course in life, but can either be avoided, corrected or prevented.

Diet & The Healthy Penis

Hey guys, we as women are only looking out for your health. As my personal gift to you, I've made myself spokesperson on behalf of all the ladies who never had the guts to discuss this situation outwardly. So I'm going for it.

Here's the magic question: Can diet cause the penis to bend? (drum roll please) YES. Sure Can! You absolutely have to change your nutritional routine.

There are specific dietary elements that are necessary for the cells of the body to strengthen and be flexible. When these elements are deficient or not present the body breaks down more easily and it develops in an inferior way. Thus the case of hard scar tissue and plaque found in a bent/curved penis caused by Peyronie's Disease.

One of the most important food nutrients for proper healing is fat. When the body is deprived of the necessary fats it needs to heal properly and maintain strong and elastic cellular structure, the greater the increase in getting Peyronies Disease.

Good Fats Can & Should Be Eaten:
  • monounsaturated fats (good fats)
  • polyunsaturated fats (good fats)
  • trans fats (bad fats)
  • saturated fats (bad fats)
The myth is that it is the fats that cause the arteries to clog, but in fact, dehydration, sugar consumption, lack of vitamin B, and consumption of trans fats (found in processed foods, for example) causes the body's inability to burn the good fats needed to strengthen cells.

Bottom Line: Stay away from junk food, fast food, canned and boxed foods high in sodium. You're injuring your penis!

Proactive Measures & Solutions to Virility & A Healthy Prostate

Guys, let me place emphasis that tomatoes are your friend.  Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant found in tomatoes. It may help prevent prostate cancer as well as reduce tumor growth among men with prostate cancer.

Because lycopene is tightly bound to cell walls, our bodies have a difficult time extracting it from raw tomatoes. Cooked or pureed tomato products may be better options. Look to products like, tomato paste, home-made spaghetti sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato juice. But please avoid salt at all costs! 'Tis best to use fresh tomatoes to create these foods as already-prepared foods in jars and cans are filled with preservatives including high sodium, which defeats the purpose, as you may be right back down the road of erectile challenges again.

Lessons On The Penis & The Root Chakra: Think Red

Red Fruits & Vegetables Are The Keys To Great Prostate Health!


Lesson I:
The Root Chakra links us to the physical world, solidity and support; especially to the physical body. It is the foundation of energy. The Base or Root Chakra manifests strongly in the motivation to ensure personal survival by way of food, rest, and sexual expression.

Root Chakra Color:
The color associated with the root chakra is RED. Red symbolizes life, vitality, strength and the physical nature of man. Rose-red is the color of universal harmony.

Lesson II:

Men should be eating RED Fruits For Prostate Health:

*Eat Watermelon and Strawberries

These fruits contain lycopene, which promotes proper prostate function and has been shown to relax blood vessels and improve blood flow to the organs. Red fruits are also recommended as a natural remedy for erectile dysfunction as lycopene acts as a “natural Viagra.”

Lesson III:

Create Your Own Tonic For Prostate Health: I'll Start You Off With One.

Watermelon/Strawberry Tonic:
Ingredients
1 pound diced seedless watermelon (without rind), about 3-4 cups
8 ounces (fresh) strawberries (about a pint)
1 Tbsp lemon or lime juice
1/4 to 1/2 cup chilled water

Method:
Put all ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth. If you choose, strain out any pulpy pieces that did not get broken up in the blender. Adjust the ingredients to taste. **Drink Regularly**


In SUMMARY: Guys it's never too late to ensure great sexual health. Being mindful of your diet is the key to a great sex life. Now, go get 'em tiger!

Go Ahead & Click That Orange Button:

Wednesday, June 17, 2015

Happy Birthday Gemini! Turn It Up.

Why on Earth would one wish to sit back and watch the world go by? There are an immense amount of opportunities in your lifetime to turn it up. So do just that.

I have an allergy towards boredom. And even when the conversation gets drab, I slowly drift away...

Just know people, that when you are in the company of a Gemini, we are examining your ability to entertain us, keep us engaged, teach us something we did not already know (which will be a mighty task).

Be brilliant with us.... Otherwise, please step away, promptly, as we've got to get our party started.

Thank you in advance.
~Abeni Bamidele



Click It.


Sunday, June 14, 2015

African Fashion: Ankara Draped Hoop Earrings At Khepera Adornments LLC, Don't Miss It!

Ankara Print Fabrics Of West Africa

 The Beauty Of Ankara Fabrics

 The magnificently designed Ankara fabrics embedded in the culture of West Africa, have strong cultural, social and economic importance.
These bold, festive fabrics tell stories, poems and traditional African tales all throughout the patterns. An array of designs can vary in clothing, accessories such as handbags and sunglasses, jewelry, and shoes as well, to name a few. 


My Love For Ankara:

I adore the fabrics. As a matter of fact, there may even be an addiction. My eyes are pleased when looking at the variety of colors and patterns. That is why, I've offered to my customers an array of Ankara prints within the jewelry I design. One of my latest inventions below:

Ankara Draped Hoop Earrings


The jewelry I design is particularly for those who are far from shy. Wear these lovely adornments with solid color clothing such as white, yellow, black, or a host of others, and make your adornments to the ears the focal point to your overall look. They are light weight despite the immense detail. Famous question: Is a long neck necessary? Well certainly having a neck helps!

Be Bold, and enjoy the richness of Ankara at Khepera Adornments, LLC. See you there! ;-)




 




But Of Course, Click The Orange Button:






 



Friday, June 12, 2015

The Color Run Shall Chase One To Serenity: Vast Interest Makes The World Go 'Round

Wembley Park Station, London, U.K., 6.6.2015

Well, I am back in the states again, and it is unbelievable that it was just last weekend that I was in London in the midst of a swarm of people, all wearing pretty much the same t-shirts which fascinated me, as the shirts stated, "The Color Run". I quickly thought to myself..."What on Earth could that mean?" particularly because there seemed to be limitations to a variety of color with the exception of the lettering on the t-shirts. I didn't know whether to be agitated or inquisitive. Nonetheless, my agitation erupted more-so because all I wanted to do was enter the Wembley Park station without disruption, as I was on a mission to go to my very favourite bead shop, Creative Beadcraft  at Smith's Court.

Goodness...they were everywhere. I couldn't get away. They were on the sidewalks, in lines uploading funds on oyster cards to catch the train. Moreover, smashed together like sardines in the train cars, arms dangling from the the bars which would support them from toppling over. The Color Run, The Color Run, The Color Run...... This would become embedded in my mind and burnt within my retinas before I could have a small semblance of peace, so that my focus would be on the joy I would receive in making my selections to design my next jewellery masterpieces. ;-)

At any rate, what I noticed from these massive clusters of people were that they seemed quite happy with the days events.  And while I was not a participant nor observer, I instantly knew that it was a very good day. And particularly for me as well, as a sunny day in London is certainly a brilliant day indeed.

The clusters would disperse over time as I would come closer to reaching my destination. The Color Run, The Color Run.... This would soon exude hints of a secret society who on this very day would grace us with their presence in the name of some form of unity. As I would understand it, this group comes together far and wide, all shapes and sizes; even with disparities in physical capability. Quite an interesting concept. My interest actually ceased at that point, as I would require instant gratification in purpose to proceed in gaining a better understanding.

Aaaah, and so I arrived.

Quite the quaint little shoppe, that would have everything I needed to fulfill and satisfy my creative urges.

No noise, no t-shirts, no clambering, no hovering, no giddiness.  Just pure genius.

A very good day indeed.















Go Ahead & Click The Orange Button:



Tuesday, June 2, 2015

Your Divine Path Is Patiently Waiting For You...

























COUNT-DOWN TO SOLAR RETURN:

Indeed it is the count-down, and I celebrate my Earth Day. I've learned a lot along the way, with much more to come...

One thing I've learned is that despite any challenge you may face, it is an opportunity to become better, stronger, wiser, and more powerful than ever before. So rejoice in the midst of your challenges!! One can not wait for others to provide you with magnificent life experiences. You must independently strive for them daily, and whatever support you may need along the way shall manifest. Start first, with gaining momentum in propelling your psychological strength, for it will lead you in the direction of your Divine Path.

Advice I would give? Stay away from toxins (which would include toxic people.) Give thanks. Be kind. Be complimentary. Be generous. Give of yourself freely to others without expectation of a return, as you shall receive it back tenfold. (Guaranteed) Take time to be quiet. Listen to others.

And whatever you do..... Do NOT harbor ANY anger, for it will chomp away at your spirit and rob you of your joy and peace.

Truly, I Give Thanks.

~Abeni Bamidele
Go Ahead: Click The Orange Button