BSM_MAG January - February Issue 2019

BSM BEAUTIFULLY SAID MAGAZINE JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2019

New Year New Love Tips Inside!

TABITHA

BROWN

WHAT A DIFFERENCE A YEAR MAKES!

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HOT?

WHAT’S

The Most Important Makeup Tip in this Month’s Issue

FACE TO FACE

LAMIK BEAUTY 2.0

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PHOTO CREDIT: CHARLES DANTE

BSM

BEAUTIFULLY SAID MAGAZINE Vol. 8

from the

PUBLISHER BSM Media Group

editor’s desk

GROUP EDITORS-IN-CHIEF La Trisha McIntosh La Tasha Taylor GROUP EDITOR BSM Team SENIOR WRITER La Trisha McIntosh La Tasha Taylor EDITOR AT LARGE Rosalind Robinson STAFF WRITERS Emelda De Coteau Desirae Alexander CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Chamber Group Dr. Alok Trivedi ADMINISTRATION BSM Team CREATIVE DESIGNERS Naz Taheri PHOTOGRAPHERS Naz Taheri Christopher Allen INTERNS

La trisha (l) La tasha (r)

Happy New Year! Wow! Can you believe it’s 2019? One more year before we enter into a new decade. But, wait! We’re not rushing things. It seemed just like yesterday, we were all believing the year 2000, (the start of the millennial) is when things like our computers would crash. We’re especially partial to this period of time because BSM was born. Who can remember their humble beginnings as budding entrepreneurs? Or, the bravery it took to share our failures?

This issue is about succeeding no matter the circumstances. Take our cover story with Tabitha Brown. The actress turned vegan foodie influencer whose life changed through a simple act of faith. Kim Roxie, the environmentally friendly, make up entrepreneur whose rebranding has taken her company to new levels.

These are just a few examples of the spirit shared going into 2019. Know all your hard work is not without rewards. Though success may not happen overnight, it happens! Go into the New Year with the same anticipation

Desirae Alexander

felt when the millennial year was upon us.

Thinking of the unknown, but realizing your spiritual roots would build a solid foundation for the impossible.

Wishing everyone a wonderful year filled with love and compassion for people and the things you love. Be committed to your better self because you deserve the wonderful experiences which come from your years of hard work and sacrifice.

Thank you for supporting us all these years and welcoming our new look and growth.

From our family to yours.

MARKETING EXECUTIVES BSM Marketing Team CIRCULATION & SUBSCRIPTION bsmandmedia.com

The ‘Original’ Twins of Media - Digital, Print, and BSM Network.

Culture: Celebrity News, Entrepreneurs and Lifestyle.

Happy New Year!

La Trisha McIntosh La Tasha Taylor

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CONTENTS 6

16

20 COVER STORY

6 kim roxie Founder kim Roxie provides make up tips for the New Year through her company LAMIK BEAUTY.

12 komal singh Author of “Ara the Star Engineer” encourages young girls to pursue a career in stem.

tabitah

Brown

“BRAND AMBASEDOR FOR A VEGAN LIFESTYLE”

20 Actress turned vegan

14 ENRIQUE PASCAL

Foodie Influencer, Tabitha Brown on her blessed year

On his new book “What does a Real Man Look Like”.

Cover photo credit: Jesse Ashton Photography

16 Young at style Founder LaShoundra Holmes Young shares her style tips for New Year’s and Valentine’s Day.

18 new year’s tips Dr. Alok Trivedi

Subscribe Today www.bsmandmedia.com Print and digital subscriptions offers

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1701 S. Shepherd, Suite C, Houston, TX 77019 713-622-7722

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BACK WITH

PHOTOGRAPHER CREDIT: MICHELLE

A BANG!

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LAMIK BEAUTY 2.0 Founder Kim Roxie provides make up tips for the New Year through her company LAMIK. Q: Provide 3 great makeup tips for the New Year?

A: It’s all about the Eyes! Always, Always, Always start your makeup look with enhancing your brows first.

•Take your brow powder and fill in your brows, your brows frame 75% of your face, so it’s a Must!

•Take a sparkly eyeshadow/eyeliner and use it right along your bottom lash line.

•Go overboard with your mascara or take your time and add lash falsies.

Q: Lamik Beauty package ideas to treat your mother, sister, friend for Valentine’s Day? A: Great idea is to treat your loved one to the LAMIK Beauty Celebrity brow kit. It’s the best brow kit, she didn’t know she needed.

Q: Top reasons people should visit LAMIK Beauty?

A: Top reasons people should visit www. lamikbeauty.com, We are the premiere clean makeup line for women of color because we deserve non-toxic ingredient beauty products.

Plus, our company name means something; Love And Makeup In Kindness.

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Things to Learn From

3

Gabri

PHOTO CREDIT: INSTAGRAM

“Every family is unique. How each family is created and comes together is special.”

Gabrielle Union has extended her family by welcoming her baby girl into the world via surrogate. It’s no rumor that Union has been wanting children of her own since having issues conceiving a child. Union is a step mother of three and is delighted to now have her original addition to the Wade family. Knowing that Union has suffered and endured pain 8 | BSM MAGAZINE

most women go through when being diagnosed with adenomyosis, she still gets backlash on social media for posting photos and tidbits about the way she welcomed her baby girl.

As Union gets settled in with her newborn, she continues to get “momshamed”. The kind of shame where you get ridiculed for being a new mom that has used alternatives and getting shunned for your parenting skills. Union is not new to the fact that others have

elle Union on Mom Shaming

By Desirae K. Alexander

opinions about her parenting styles and knows that she is a straight target considering she didn’t physically have the baby.

Her husband (NBA Player) Dwyane Wade helps her and supports her through this precious time in their lives by disregarding and subsiding negative comments and hate.

Union has been bombarded by unethical questioning about her choice on surrogacy and how she will implement her parenting skills to her newborn.

Being a new mom can be challenging especially when you’re in the public eye. Union shared a few tips on how to overcome hate, shame and to educate and inform the ignorance.

“ BEING A MOTHER HAS NO SHAME!”

3 Things to learn from Gabrielle Union on Mom Shaming: “Everyone’s journey is different,” Union said.

Knowing that there are many ways to become parents, you can’t be blind and figure things are going to work out for every-

one. Do your research and ask the right questions to get the right answers.

“If you’re gonna be in our business have the right information,” Union said.

Couple/families who follow through with alternatives to bring in a new addition to their family is not necessarily anyone’s business. Being mindful of what people went through to get where they are today is something to remember. Being misinformed can come off as offensive, so educate yourself.

If you choose alternatives, it is your business whether or not you want to share that personal information, don’t feel obligated to do so.

“You have to eliminate the haters,” Union said.

This tip is essential to know because no one knows your story!

Being constantly bugged by hate from others can seriously impact your mental state and have you questioning your parenting skills. It can become a distraction from what’s important, being a parent to your child.

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MOVIE REVIEWS

WE OFTEN WONDER IF PEOPLE ENJOY “MOMENTS” ANYMORE? OR, IF THEY’RE TOO BUSY TRYING TO CAPTURE IT ON FACEBOOK OR INSTAGRAM. IT’S WHY WE HIGHLIGHTED THESE MOVIES IN PARTICULAR. EACH, EXPRESSING A DIFFERENT MEANING TO REMIND US TO LIVE IN THE NOW WITH GRATITUDE.

Based on the novel by James Baldwin, IF BEALE STREET COULD TALK is the story of Tish, a newly engaged Harlem woman who races against the clock to prove her lover’s innocence while carrying their first-born child to term. It is a celebration of love told through the story of a young couple, their families and their lives, trying to bring about justice through love, for love and the promise of the American dream. The films is written and directed by Barry Jenkins with Adele Romanski, Sara Murphy, Barry Jenkins, Dede Gardner, Jeremy Kleiner and stars KiKi Layne, Stephan James, Colman Domingo, Teyonah Parris, Michael Beach, Aunjanue Ellis, Dave Franco, Diego Luna, Pedro Pascal, Emily Rios, Ed Skrein, Finn Wittrock, Bryan Tyree Henry & Regina King.

Release Date: December 14, 2018 Photo credit: Annapurna Pictures

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BUMBLBEE written by Christina Hodson is a feel good movie for transformer fans looking for a more human yet action packed storyline where the main character Charlie falls in love with what she thinks is her dream car turned robot who she instantly bonds with. Throughtout the film the two are inseparable helping one another to get through a difficult time while working together to save planet earth. The film stars Hailee Steinfeld, John Cena, Jorge Lendeborg Jr., John Ortiz, Jason Drucker, Pamela Adlon, Stephen Schneider with director Travis Knight and produced by Lorenzo di Bonaventura, Tom DeSanto & Don Murphy, Michael Bay, Mark Vahradian and executive produced by Steven Spielberg, Brian Goldner, Chris Brigham.

Release date: December 21, 2018 Photo credit: Paramount Pictures

SECOND ACT is an inspirational comedy starring Jennifer Lopez as Maya, a 40-year-old woman struggling with frustrations of not having achieved more in life. As an experienced, quick-witted, perceptive employee, she is passed over for a promotion solely because she doesn’t have a college degree. Until, that is, she gets the chance to prove that street smarts are as valuable as book smarts, and that it is never too late for a Second Act. The cast includes: Jennifer Lopez, Leah Remini, Vanessa Hudgens with Treat Williams and Milo Ventimiglia. The film is written by Justin Zackham & Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas with director Peter Segal and produced

by Jennifer Lopez, Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas, Benny Medina, Justin Zackham Release Date: December 21, 2018 Photo credit: STX Entertainment

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then pursued my M.Sc in Computer Science from Simon Fraser University in Canada. I worked with a couple of tech consulting firms as a software engineer and program manager for about 10 years. I tried 3 times over a period of 3-years and then finally made it to Google!!

Q: What is your role at Google?

A: I work as a Program Manager within Engineering. In particular, I work on a team called “Ads Infrastructure” which basically means we design and build the software backbone that is used to “serve” ads on the internet - anytime you are surfing the internet and see ads, I’m on the team that makes it possible. The Ads System is one of the biggest systems in the world, serving trillions of ads every day, to billions of users, in split seconds.

Q: What inspired you to write the book Ara the Star Engineer? Tell us about the concept to create it.

PHOTO CREDIT: HILARY GAULD

Dreams of

GIRL ENGINEERS A CONVERSATION WITH KOMAL SINGH

BY BSM TEAM

Ara is a book by a group of women of color at Google, written to encourage girls and children of color to pursue STEM. The primary author, Komal Singh, was inspired when her young daughter proclaimed that “engineers are boys.”

Q: At what age did you realize that you wanted to become an engineer?

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A: I grew up in India in the 80s. My dad was an engineer and my mom a homemaker. I really admired my dad’s technical know-how and problem solving skills. That’s what inspired me to become a software engineer in the first place. It was in Grade 11 when I decided to pursue Science courses to set my career path in that direction. I didn’t know for sure at the time, if I’d actually end up becoming one. I did my undergrad in Information Technology from Delhi University in India. I

A: I have been working in tech for the past 15 years and as a woman of color, have always felt strongly about the lack of diversity, and have always felt the desire to inspire young girls to explore fields in tech. But it is something that my four- year-old daughter said to me - “Mamma, engineers are boys.” That really bummed and upset me. It was then I decided to write the book. I feel books are a universal and a loved medium to gain entry into the lives and minds of young kids, and hence a direct channel of inspiration. I wanted to write a story that was whimsical and based on real-life role models of diverse backgrounds. And thus the concept of the book is quite unique and novel: an inspiring, inclusive and whimsical way to spark kid’s curiosity in STEM by showcasing real-life role models.

•Also, you can check out this video trailer to know more about the “Story behind the story”: https:// www.blog.google/inside-google/ googlers/ara-star-engineer-stembook-mission/

Q: What does your four-year old daughter think about the book?

A: She has said to me “Mama, I love this book infinity. I love the words and the superheroes. And I love that Ara and DeeDee are problem solvers.”

Q: Who are the characters?

A: The story is based on the heroine Ara and her side-kick droid DeeDee. During their quest for counting all the stars, they encounter 4 real-life engineering trailblazers: (a) Kripa Krishnan, the Prolific Problem Solver, (b) Parisa Tabriz, the Intrepid Innovator (c) Diane Tang, the Code Commander (d) Marian Croak, the Tenacious Troubleshooter.

•You can find a fun and quippy description of the characters here: https://www.arastarengineer.com/meet-the-characters Q: Do you plan to incorporate the book in school systems soon?

A: You are giving me ideas!

We haven’t formally explored that yet, but we’ve had interest from a number of teachers and schools. So we’ll explore this path more soon. But no such plans yet. However, the book is available in school and public libraries in Canada.

Q: What has been the feedback from parents, young girls and boys?

A: Extremely fun and endearing. We’ve had parents tell us that they themselves learned a lot about the world of tech and engineering problem-solving from the book, and that the message of 4C’s - courage, creativity, coding, collaboration - is so universal and inspiring for every-day life endeavors.

•Another parent mentioned that “my daughter wrote an algorithm

to feed the cats”. One parent mentioned, “My son has been troubleshooting all the gadgets in the house after reading the book”.

•A lot of parents have mentioned their ‘kids’ favorite part is the last bio-page where they get to see the “superhero characters” are based on real life people and get to look at their real pictures and read about being “directors” and “VPs” in real-life. That goes a long way in establishing “if they can see it, they can be it!”

Q: Do you plan to create a series from your latest work?

•I’d love to! There are so many amazing and inspiring technical things that can be explained in a fun

“WE THOUGHT THE BOOK WAS VERY COOL. WE LIKE THE FACT THAT SHE WAS COUNTING THE STARS” -AYANA & LEILANI B.

“THANK YOU KOMAL!!!

I HAVE ENJOYED READING “ARA THE STAR ENGINEER” TO MY DAUGTER KIYA. THIS WILL DEFINITELY BE ADDED TO OUR ROTATION OF BOOKS FOR STORY TIME. WONDERFUL STORY AND ILLUSTRATIONS!!!!”

-KUSHANA D. and whimsical manner to kids, to spark their curiosity further. Things such as Computational Numbers, AI, Internet etc. Plus I’d love to combine this with highlighting real-life role models.

•We’ll soon be opening a ‘public feedback form’ for parents/teachers/children to fill out on what kind of content they’d like to see in the series and would love to take all of that into account.

Q: How is Google supporting the book?

•This book is not an official product of Google. This is an effort undertaken by me and a number of my Googler peers in their personal capacity. However, Google has supported me in ways such as: monetary grants for me to hire editing/ illustration services etc. My peers helped out in their personal capacity with items such as building the website, designing activity sheets content. Creating the immersive experiences such as the VR Expedition.

Q: What’s next for Komal Singh?

•The usual as before - work, kids, family, friends and hobbies. But now with the added enthusiastic spark of creating a book series with amazing content and new immersive storytelling ideas!

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Enrique the

relationship counselor You are the author of the book “What Does A Real Man Look Like.” What motivated you to write about this topic?

I was the host of a weekly online radio show that focused on healthy relationships. I received an email from a listener, that provoked me to dig deep within myself. Truthfully, I was not able to give her the answer she needed. My upbringing and surroundings played a significant role in the men I admired and emulated.

Being raised in a fatherless home was quite challenging. I was easily influenced by what I thought a man should be. I did not know any better at the time, so I repeated what I admired. Because of her question, I sought God for the answer, and He gave me the Wisdom, which directed me in the right direction.

An email I received and the circumstances I faced in my life inspired me to write this book. The email read: “Hello, Enrique, my name is Brittany, and I am looking for real love. I am so hurt and frustrated. My last three relationships have sucked the life out of me. I am just sick, tired, and fed the heck up!!! One guy was married and never told me, the other ran up my credit cards, and the other is on the down low [living a gay lifestyle].

I had no idea. What does a real man look like? Please help me. I am a frustrated woman with a major issue.” Brittany What Relationship gems do you have for couples in the New Year and Valentine’s Day?

BY: La Trisha and La Tasha PHOTO BY: Virgil Odell

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I have so many. I will give you two.

The relationship you have with God is the most important relationship you will ever have. Every relationship

consists of three people, God, Man, and Woman, or Satan, Man, and Woman. You know who is leading the couple by the amount of Heaven or Hell they face in their household and lives. God is the Creator/Manufacturer of relationship and marriage.

So, if you exclude Him, it is going to malfunction. The iPhone does not tell Apple I do not need you. When the manufacturer makes a product, it comes with a warranty. The builder has the blueprint and tools to fix whatever issues the product has.

When, we, the product excludes the Manufacturer {God} from our relationships, we try to fix things ourselves. We make matters worse because we do not have the proper tools. We bring a hammer to a screwdriver problem. When you take God out of the equation, you invite the enemy in, just like Adam and Eve did, in the Garden of Eden {Genesis 3}.

Never lose your singleness. Even though you are in a relationship or married, never misplace your individuality. In other words, please do not stop doing what you did before you connected with your companion.

Wash your clothes, cook your food, and clean the house. Be a blessing, not a liability. Where is it written, “Cooking and cleaning is a woman’s job?” Where is it the law that, “taking out the trash or mowing the lawn is a man’s job?” Do not get me wrong. I am all for teamwork and helping your mate out, but you should not expect help, to the point of adding pressure to your partner. It is best for you to continue to do all you did before you got together, so you will be a blessing, not added weight. When I was single, I cooked my food, cleaned my home, and washed my clothes.

Now that I am married, I cook for Katrina and me, I wash our clothes,

Pascal and I clean our home. I do not expect her to do it, because “That’s a woman’s job.” I do all that I do, because, I refuse to lose my singleness. This Biblical principle has saved countless relationships when the couples embrace it. God created the relationship with one single human – Adam.

God did not make Adam dependent on Eve and Eve dependent on Adam. They were successfully single before they were married. When Adam and Eve saw each other, they saw nothing but blessings. Adam was carrying his weight and Eve was able to be in her proper role, as his “Suitable Helper.” Your success in being together is contingent upon your achievement in being single. If you are not good by yourself, you will not be good with anyone else.

Top reason men and women should read your book? Where can we purchase it?

This book is a must read for men and women, because it is rich with Wisdom. Here is a shocker, relationships do not fail because of adultery, finance, or blended family.

Relationships fail because of ignorance “my people are destroyed from lack of knowledge.

Because you have rejected knowledge” {Hosea 4:6 NIV}. It is sad to say, but, people fail in their relationship because they do not know how to function as God designed for us to function. When you buy any product, it comes with instructions, telling you how to care for it. Your car, phone, even your clothes come with care information. For example, “Do not wash this shirt with colored clothes, wash with cold water, and hang dry.” If you do not follow those instructions, you will damage a lovely shirt. God has given us the guidelines we need to succeed in the Bible. However, quite a few of us do not take the time to read these principles and apply them. I have counseled countless people who had no clue about the codes of relationship or

“Your success in being together is contingent upon your achivment in being single.”

marriage. When the keys I am speaking of are applied, their relationship turns entirely around, in no time. I say it this way, darkness {ignorance} disappears when light {Wisdom} shows up. What Does A Real MAN Look Like? will be released February 14, 2019 {Valentine’s Day}. You can get your autographed copy at www.enriquepascal.com/store or Amazon for the book and Kindle version.

How do you honor your marriage and family?

I honor my marriage and family by living a sacrificial life. I follow the steps of Jesus. I am instructed to “love my wife as Christ loved the church, and gave Himself for it” {Ephesians 5:25}. In my obedience to His Word, He lives in and through me, so living to this degree, does not make me uncomfortable. I fully embrace this lifestyle, with open arms. When I die to anything that hinders my relationship with God, my wife, and family benefits. I have been living this way for a while now. I would not have it any other way.

What does 2019 look like for you? How do you plan to promote your book?

2019, looks very promising for me. I am claiming that this year is the best year of my life. I have been working in 2019, since September 2018.

I will release several books this year, I will be speaking at quite a few conferences, and I plan on saving even more relationships and marriages. I will be utilizing all social media platforms, television, radio, and print advertisement to promote this project. Thanks for the opportunity.

You are much appreciated!

Last time you literally laughed out loud instead of typing the letters?

Our nine-year-old daughter sent me a text the other day that caught me by surprise. I could not help but laugh aloud before I responded to her.

Skyy is beyond her age. She is such a blessing from God!

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YOUNG AT STYLE WITH LASHOUNDRA YOUNG

STYLE & PROFILE BOTH IN THE NEW YEAR AND VALENTINE’S DAY BY: LA TASHA TAYLOR PHOTOS : CURVY GIRLS ROCK & CHRIS BRUNO @THEKIDBRUNO

LaShoundra Holmes Young is a Mobile, AL native who has one of the hottest fashion blogs on Instagram @youngatstyle. We spoke with the fashionista as she shares New Year style tips and more.

What are 3 great fashion tips for the New Year?

Don’t be afraid to step outside of your style comfort zone! Invest in a good denim jacket. Trust me! Purchase a good handbag that’s ideal for everyday use. Don’t be afraid of simple DIYs. Create a pair of custom denim using fabric paint. You can’t go wrong!

of extra-wide leg denim and pair it with a white turtleneck and fur stole. For extra sassiness, add a red lippie (lip color).

Top reason women should embrace their natural style to promote self-love?

Here’s the deal, we all have insecurities. The pretty woman on social media, your fav person in a magazine, or the one who’s always smiling.

So, it’s important to choose ONE thing about yourself and accentuate it! Self-love reflects an inner peace and beauty no one can disturb!

Young at Style wardrobe ideas for Valentine’s Day? Keep it simple. Allow the one piece you’re wearing to stand out! For example, grab a pair

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10

TIPS

TO TURN YOUR

NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS INTO

REALITY Source: Scott Jones || TIPS BY: Dr. Alok Trivedi

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It’s the time of year when many people are setting their annual New Year’s resolutions. What can you do to better your chances of turning those goals into reality?

Dr. Alok Trivedi is a human behavior and psychological performance expert. He is the founder of the Aligned Performance Institute and author of the book Chasing Success. http://alignedperformanceinstitute.com/

He offers these 10 tips: 1.Starting small: Having a big goal in mind is fine, but realize the best way to be successful is to see it as an incremental process. Maybe you want to lose 50 pounds. That’s great, but focus on losing 10 pounds at a time. If you constantly look at the big picture, you’re going to get overwhelmed. Smaller goals are easier to accomplish and will leave you feeling motivated and inspired to keep moving towards your larger goals.

2. Keeping your mouth shut: When you keep your goals to yourself, it creates an inner drive to achieve them. Telling everyone else what you want to accomplish only puts more pressure on you and makes the process much more difficult to manage. If you feel like sharing, tell other people about your failures. It makes you a humbler person. The other reason to speak about your failures is because there is so much learning in failure for yourself as well as those around you.

3.Not comparing your goals to someone else’s goals: This is your life, your goals and your reality. What you want to accomplish in your life is going to be very different from what someone else wants to achieve. For example, in the next few weeks, so many people are going to say they want to lose weight in the new year. Do they really want to lose weight or are they saying that because it’s the popular thing to do? Set goals that are truly valuable to you.

4.Mastering your failures. Master the areas you have failed at by finding out why. Why didn’t you succeed in the past? If you didn’t accomplish your goals last year, figure out what went wrong so you don’t make the same mistakes. Treat your failures as a learning experience to move you closer to success.

5.Starting to focus on the experience, not the goal: It’s not the million dollars that you’re after, it’s the experiences you get to have because of the million dollars. It’s fine to have your goals, but rather than spending so much time obsessed with them, focus on the experience. Every day is a new experience with new people and new adventures. Knowing where you want to go is important, but don’t miss out on the ride.

6. Expecting bumps in the road: Trying to accomplish any goal is a process filled with ups and downs. Most people enter the new year expecting things to just magically change without any effort or obstacles. The person who accomplishes his New Year’s resolutions is the person who overcame the most obstacles.

7. Listening to the negative talk: All the self-help gurus, while well-intentioned, encourage you to only think positive thoughts. This is unrealistic because you’re living in a fantasy world. Paying attention to your negative self-talk is extremely important because it’s trying to break you of your addiction to that fantasy. The key is to be optimistic about what you want while listening to the negative thoughts because it will keep you grounded in reality.

8. Focusing on your ‘why not:’ Most personal development people will tell you to focus on your ‘why.’ Instead, you need to focus on your ‘why not.’ This is the real reason you’re not going after your goals. Until you figure out what’s really holding you back, you can’t have any forward progress.

9. Not creating vision boards: These should be called nightmare boards. All they do is slap you in the face and constantly remind you of all the things you haven’t been able to accomplish. Staring at million-dollar mansions, Lamborghinis and super fit models with bulging muscles isn’t going to inspire you for greatness. It’s delusional thinking that will leave feeling down on your luck.

10.Not waiting until January 1: Why wait until January 1? Thinking you’re going to make a magical change come the New Year is delusional thinking, gives you more time to indulge in the bad behavior and digs a deeper hole. If you’re really serious about making a change, start right now, this very second.

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COVER STORY

T

he vibrant energy and southern charm of Tabitha Brown is immediately felt from the time we connect on the call. It’s still morning time in Los Angeles where the actress and vegan foodie influencer lives with her husband and kids. She’s running errands and talking to us at the same time when a stranger approaches her car window.

“Hold on guys,” she says. From there, we here bits of their conversation before Tabitha returns to the line. “When I tell you God is good!” she proclaims, as she continues the conversation.

“I saw this woman’s hand stretch toward me (crying). I rolled my window down and she asked, “Can I pray for you?” It’s moments like the one Tabitha just described that is evident of the wonderful year she’s had. Not long ago, she experienced health challenges on top of not finding much work as an actress in Hollywood. Blessed and mind-blowing is how she sums up, the great things happening in her life.

All while giving thanks to God. “My purpose in life is to show people love” Tabitha will be the first to tell you her newfound success was a surprise only when it came to the simplicity of how it happened. Who can forget the video of her eating a TTLA sandwich from Whole Foods Market that instantly went viral and changed her life? This was during the time she drove Uber in between acting jobs; nothing too much out of the ordinary, considering she had been vegan for a short time already, and filming Facebook Live videos. What she didn’t know was that this one in particular would change everything.

“The part about me eating a sandwich was a surprise!” she admits. Tabitha said what took place afterwards was to be expected. “I had been obedient to God knowing something good would happen.” I heard God say, if you will submit to me…all of you, I will literally blow your mind. From that moment on, Tabitha said she made the decision to only do what God had instructed. “So, yeah! The surprise was not because all of a sudden something great was happening, but how God did it.”

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With a huge fanbase comes an even bigger level of responsibility. Something Tabitha is very much aware of when we asked this particular question. “It’s funny you bring it up,” she laughs. The comment I get the most is… Tabitha, I feel like I’m right in the kitchen with you! Noting, her audience appreciates the authenticity she delivers when making delicious, vegan recipes out of the comfort of her kitchen. The same place where thousands of her followers have come to know her family as well. Even their dog, blacky has become a fan favorite. “You know, I had been sick for a while before I became vegan. When I took on the 30-day challenge (with my family) I was already in a dark place. I felt like I was so close to death in my mind,” she says. Tabitha recalls that things had gotten so bad with her health, she was literally going to the doctor every week. They couldn’t find out what was wrong with me! It got to the point where she asked God “Why are you keeping me? Why are you waking me up? She soon realized her obedience to completing the challenge was the answer. “It not only changed my life on the outside but on the inside as well, and I instantly started to feel better!” Tabitha knows that through her health journey came the opportunity to be there for others. “I remember someone had contacted me to say they were on the brink of suicide and my video popped up,” she pauses briefly, before continuing. The person told me they had never heard about me before!

That was confirmation for me. “I feel like I’m a light!” And with as much conviction as her voice could muster…she tells us… I’m on assignment! I know my purpose in life is to show people love.

PHOTO : INSTAGRAM

“My family is my foundation” It is the kind of love Tabitha shows to people, that has allowed her to use her vegan platform to heal and provide guidance to her followers.

“I realize people have a hard time with control.

And because I am a black woman, I especially want to encourage people of color to have better control,” she says. “If we can control something as simple as what we put into our mouths, then imagine how many more things we can control; finances, tempers, emotions etc. Self-control is being obedient to God. “I’ve had to turn down projects because, like I said a few minutes ago, I’m on assignment! It is my gift for me to handle people with care through my cooking; with humor and comedy. I have other people’s lives in my hands. I am committed to helping their hearts and minds!”

How does the actress turned vegan foodie influencer feel about family? “My family is my foundation. You can’t build anything without it,” she says proudly. Check out Tabitha’s social media page (Instagram in particular) and you will see the order in which her lifestyle is listed; Believer, PHOTO : CHOYCE BROWN

Choyce Brown

“If we can control something as simple as what we put into our mouths, then imagine how many more things we can control” Wife, and Mother and…. everything else follows.

“My middle name is Bonita so if you want to see me go from Tabitha to Bonita…mess with my family (laughs). My husband is my life partner.

God linked us together. I thought my big break would come through me acting, but I have to be honest…God didn’t give it to me then because I was not ready. I don’t know if my marriage would have survived if I had been given what I have now… twelve years ago. Now, my foundation is tight and secure. My husband and I are here to raise our family. Money and career may come and go, but the foundation of my family is everything!”

To have a conversation with Tabitha Brown is to know she’s never too far removed from her roots.

She’s lived in California well over 14 years, but we believe it’s her southern charm that’s endearing to the people around her. She reflects on her own happiness with words of wisdom: “I laugh so much,” she says. “Laughter heals the soul. Sometimes you laugh so hard to keep from crying or you cry so hard, you start laughing…either way, it’s good for the soul!

We’re reminded Tabitha has to get back to running errands, but before we get off the line we hear her say, “I love y’all.” Something we, and all her fans know she means with great sincerity.

So, what does 2019 look like for Tabitha Brown?

“I was just talking to my manager and I can’t tell you what it looks like, but I know it’s more than what I imagine!” adding. “I do have a play and film lined up, and I am in the developing stages of selling my TV show. She also mentions the “Storytime” tour happening in the New Year where she’ll tour different cities, providing storytelling and laughter with (vegan food and vendors). “It’s going to be busy, but fun!

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PHOTO CREDIT: NBC

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Why are black network

shows Being canceled!

“Marlon” Show Canceled The television show Marlon has been canceled. The comedy starred Marlon Wayans and Essence Atkins and was loosely based on the life of Wayans.The half-hour sitcom aired for two seasons on NBC and included fellow cast members; Bresha Webb, Diallo Riddle, Notlim Taylor and Amir O’Neil.

The series had a solid first season with 5.6 million viewers, but averaged only 3 million viewers in it’s second season.

doing what I love to do. Thank you @marlonwayans for assembling such a fantastic group of people who not only are talented but also extraordinarily dope and kind!”

Atkins took to Twitter to express her heartfelt thoughts on what the show meant: “This show gave me new friends who became family helped me heal after my own divorce and allowed me to thrive

With sitcoms like, The Carmichael Show and now Marlon, “We ask why are black network shows being canceled?”

Marlon aired its final episode on Dec. 28.

Fans of the series can hope for the best, as it is reported the show is being shopped to other outlets. In the meantime, we wish the entire team the best!

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By Emelda De Coteau

Break up with Busy and Live with Deeper Purpose Busy is a way of life for most Americans. Down time? What’s that? Scroll your social media feeds any day of the week, and confront countless references by way of colorful memes to our productivity-obsessed culture: “team no sleep,” “hustle hard,” etc. glare back at us from screens, constant reminders to push to the max – no matter what cost.

What if we questioned why we are always running? Is it possible to break up with busy in an era where we’re simultaneously concerned with securing the bag, gloom and doom headlines and the Twitter musings of the current administration? What might it look like to live with greater intention, coming into an awareness about the interconnected nature of our world? American society socializes us to derive worth from amassing accomplishments, while relegating our thoughts to the surface level.

Making the Shift in Mindset But we can resist this paradigm and become intentional, cultivating compassion for ourselves and by extension, the larger world. Pema Chödrön thinker, author and Buddhist nun, writes in The Places That Scare You: A Guide to Fearlessness in Difficult Times: “Compassion is not a relationship between the healer and the wounded.

It’s a relationship between equals.

Only when we know our own darkness well can we be present with the darkness of others. Compassion becomes real when we recognize our shared humanity.”

Living out these practices everyday is a journey; shedding old habits is difficult but not impossible.

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for a life of increased intention and awareness: Journaling - People have journaled for thousands of years, but in our modern world, it is increasingly becoming a tool for centering wellness.

In a recent post from Intermountain Healthcare, blogger Kasee Bailey writes about this practice, and its ability to reduce stress and improve immune function, citing a study from Scientific American Journal, published in 2013, which reported journal writing helped adults heal from a required biopsy: “In the study, 49 healthy adults aged 64 to 97 years wrote about either upsetting events or daily activities for 20 minutes, three days in a row. After a time lag of two weeks, to make sure any initial negative feelings stirred up by recalling upsetting events had passed, all the subjects had a biopsy on the arm, and photographs over the next 21 days tracked its healing.

On the 11th day, 76 percent of the group that did expressive writing had fully healed as compared with 42 percent of the control group.”

Even if you are not dealing with chronic illness, stress is a consistent force so taking a few minutes towards the end of the day or morning, before it all gets hectic, relieves the mind and body. Try setting aside time for this kind of reflection.

Breathing with Focus - We breathe without thinking, it is natural of course but being conscious of the rhythm, whether rapid, calm or in between, gives unique insights into the mind / body / spirit connection.

Take a few moments during different parts of your day (especially when rushing) to slow down and check in

with your body. Body scans assist with this deep listening practice.

Tamara Schenk of Heart Sands blog, writes: “Breathing deeply (diaphragmatic) leads immediately to a more centered state of being. And as a side effect: you cannot remain angry or upset if you focus on breathing this way: slowly and deeply. So whatever happens to you that has the potential to upset you: focus on your breath and calm down before taking any further action. It always helps.”

Schenk goes on to share a simple technique for breathing more consciously (which I use now): “Lay down on your bed or a comfortable mat, such as a yoga mat, or a blanket.

Inhale deeply and count slowly from 1 to 4; focus on a deep breath that fills your entire lungs, especially the lower lungs. Keep the breath for a moment. And then exhale slowly and fully, counting from 1 to 8. Repeat that for a few times. Then, repeat and focus while you inhale (round-belly breaths) on arching the small of your back. While you

Moving Forward with Intention It takes effort to shift mindsets, but doing so help us to walk into renewed freedom.

Struggle is a prolific teacher, within my own season of difficulty, I deeply appreciate the miraculousness of being alive, connecting genuinely with family, friends and community, working towards a world where seeds of hope, compassion, and radical love, instead of destructive bitterness, hatred and division.

Create space for embracing intentional living and growth daily, as it will enrich not only your life, but the life of each person you encounter. The words of the prolific writer and activist Arundhati Roy come to mind: “Another day is not only possible, she is on her way. On a quiet day, I can hear her breathing.”

PHOTO : LEIGHANN RENEE

exhale, flatten your back. If you put your hands on your sides, you can feel what is happening in your body.”

Actively setting aside these times throughout our days can radically shift how we show up in various spaces – home, work, with friends, etc.

Saying and Writing out Affirmations Do you spend time speaking intentionally about what you want to see come to pass in your life? The Bible tells us to “write the vision and make it plain” (Habakkuk 2:2), and warns “the power of life and death are in the tongue” (Proverbs 18:21).

There is a direct correlation between what we say and manifest or bring about in the world. Affirmations (either writing, speaking, and committing them to memory or both) place our visions at the forefront of consciousness.

Here are a few examples of daily affirmations:

“Compassion is not a relationship between the healer and the wounded. It’s a relationship between equals.”

I affirm there is purpose rooted in my unique gifts. I believe possibilities always unfold and everything comes together for my good.

I care for myself, family and community with ease. I am not depleted, but constantly nurtured as I care for mind, body and spirit with deep love.

Photo: Stock photo

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IF BEALE STREET COULD TALK

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“IF BEALE STREET COULD TALK”

By Desirae K. Alexander

B

“If Beale Street Could Talk” Focuses on Black Love.

The love filled film isn’t just a movie about love, it’s about black love and the solidarity it holds with its main characters. The film is directed by Barry Jenkins who in his own way brought to life the love novel, written by James Baldwin. On screen, it shows that black love is alive and real and that it doesn’t really hide in the back like other black love films. Though it takes place during the 1970s, there are still relevant issues that happen in our time today.

During the time of this black love, they face injustice, separation, bigotry, and police brutality. The film focuses on main characters Clementine “Tish” Rivers and Alonzo “Fonny” Hunt, who are played by Kiki Layne and Stephan James. The storyline surrounds the young black couple and focuses on their love as they fight for their right to be together while being alienated for an unfortunate cause.

Its no secret that being young and in love can be a powerful bond that one just can’t break. “If Beale Street Could Talk,” isn’t your typical black love story, considering the term “black love” is something taboo and only relevant on social media or referring to a couple that is wealthy. One way this film stands out is that, Tish and Fonny made their love to be true and honest at a time where black love was rare.

They showed love at such a young age as they had to grow up fast because of their unfortunate situation. It’s a love

story that we don’t get to often and find out through the hardships, black love still prevails!

In an interview by Emmy-Winner Jake Hamilton, he sits down with the Beal Street cast/ director, Barry Jenkins, Regina King, Kiki Layne, Stephan and Colman Domingo. He discusses with them about James Baldwin and what would be their reaction if they were granted to watch the film with him.

“I want him to still feel all that love even in the mist of pain,” Said Kiki Layne Fighting to be together physically and emotionally, is a signifier that love is real. It’s the kind of black love we all look up to in a sense of doing whatever it takes to be in that state of love.

Through the event of Fonny being falsely incarcerated, Tish had to struggle to become sane and trusting in her relationship by depending on the love and support from her family. In the film, you can see the pain and the unknowing fear for each other’s future together or apart. Such portrayal defines how James Baldwin wanted to show the injustice and hardship it brought to Tish and Fonny’s life while being a black couple in America. A lot of what they went through plays a major role in our lives today. The film overall brings a lot of hope that a true power couple doesn’t just happen overnight or have matching outfits. It takes hard work, compassion, faith and love. The focus of the entire film is to get our attention to see that love can withstand chaos and despair. In a way love can heal.

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SOURCE / PHOTOGRAPH : The Chamber Group

PREMIERES HEARTFELT VIDEO FOR NEW SINGLE “TESTIFY”

Diamond selling, 5x Grammy-nominated recording artist, actor and entertainer, Robin Thicke, premieres the touching new video for his brand new single “Testify,” a heartfelt, emotionally transparent r&b cut produced by both Robin and longtime collaborative producer Pro J. “Testify” marks Thicke’s first musical release since 2016’s “Deep” feat. Nas and “One Shot” feat. Juicy J and acts as the debut push from his new partnership under Thicke Music/ EMPIRE. Directed by Arrad Rahgoshay, the video showcases Robin playing guitar under the California sun with highlights of everyday people who are often forgotten. “This video is about the struggles we all face at some point in our lives. And how, with the love of God, family and friends we can overcome any obstacles and turn darkness into light.” says Robin.

“Testify” comes in the midst of a vulnerable period for Robin, who wrote the record at his home in Malibu which recently burned down due to California wildfire crisis. The anticipation of new music and the return to his fans keeps Robin energized about his tenacious career as well as his new role starring as “The Masked Singer,” a singing competition show that airs January 2nd, 2019 on FOX.

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SANCTUARY SPA AROMATHERAPY Q: What are 4 great reasons to treat your skin; mind, body and spirit in the New Year?

1.The New Year is always a great time of self-reflection and to set intentions for yourself. Understanding with every passing day, that you are grateful to be on this earth, but also ensuring you are living your best life; making your life and other’s better.

2.Massage, hydrotherapy and facials all work your muscles: relaxing, stretching, stimulating lymph drainage, retraining muscle movement. Think about how much you move in a 24-hour period – every car ride, every moment at the desk, standing. cooking, working out, or bending to pick up your child. Everyone deserves to have their body and skin worked on and to feel the satisfaction of a relaxed, glowing body.

3.Your skin is the only skin you have, so love it, nurture it, care for it. The New Year is a wonderful time to asses just how much self-care you are investing in your own body and create an accountability plan to ensure you get back on track or stay on track.

By: BSM Team

4.Relaxation, peacefulness, and confidence can all be awakened and nurtured when receiving spa treatments. From our Signature scent that you can take a deep inhalation of as you walk through the door and signals for your mind to exhale not only your breath, but also your stress and worries for the day. The relaxing music, dim lights, warm tea, and cozy chairs will be all the appreciation you need for giving yourself this break. Finally, your amazing skin and body services will result in a tremendous sense of serenity, an energy that can transfer into your other daily activities.

Q: Spa package ideas to treat your loved ones for Valentine’s day?

Our Sanctuary Spa Duo Package is a great way to celebrate your love

together. Be sure to arrive early, so you can enjoy the relaxation lounge.

Whether in our relaxing massage chairs or comfy lounge chairs, sit back and sip on Prosecco as you get your mind ready for your massage. In our couple’s massage room, you’ll find two massage beds side by side where you will enjoy your 75-minute Sanctuary Signature massages. Each therapist will customize the massage to your own needs.

Experiencing the ultimate relaxation together will increase your connection this Valentine’s Day.

visit the spa when you have something to address like acne, wrinkles or shoulder tension. Prevention and being proactive is key for youthful looking, healthy skin and body in the long run. We can’t fix everything with one visit, it’s important for us to become partners, both invested in your health and wellness. Initial maintenance, getting a massage before you feel the constant tension in your shoulders or getting a facial before even seeing those first fine lines are important steps to ensure you stay in maintenance mode vs treatment mode.

If you and your loved one have more time, our Ultimate Duo Package is a fantastic choice. Beginning with our 60-minute Sanctuary Signature Massage in our couple’s massage room, this package gives you both some much needed time to unwind together.

After your massage you will each enjoy 60-minute Personalized Facials. Our personalized facials, similar to our massages, are customized specifically for your particular concerns and skin type.

For men without beards, get ready to enjoy some amazing deep cleansing and exfoliation to make sure you can get a closer shave. For men with beards, enjoy the same deep cleanse and exfoliation, but appreciate the serums that will hydrate your skin and leave your beard silk smooth.

Q: Provide 3 great tips for self-care in between spa visits?

Q: What are two common misconceptions about visiting a spa?

One misconception is that there are unwritten rules that everyone knows.

Some feel intimidated that they may do something “wrong” or don’t know when to ask a question or make a comment.

We encourage everyone to ask any question they want. We have heard just about every type of question, so it’s unlikely to be new or shocking. And even if it is, so what? Our commitment is for you to have an amazing experience while you are here, and we believe you can be more comfortable if you can speak your mind. Whether you’ve been to the spa hundreds of times or you are going for your first time, don’t be shy.

Another misconception is that you only

Whether you visit the spa monthly or annually, self-care at home is so very important! One spa visit can’t erase months of not stretching or washing your face at night, but it can get you back on track.

Our top 3 tips include:

1.Wash Your Face Every Night: We know, this tip sounds so basic, how can it be included in our top 3 tips? Well, it’s pretty simple – the basics are the foundation to healthy skin! If you wear makeup, not washing your face at night can enable that make up to clog your pores, creating issues further down the road with the appearance of breakouts, enlarged pores and overall irritated skin. Even if you don’t wear makeup, washing your face is important to rid your skin of any sweat and normal environmental exposure that accumulates on your skin, like dirt and pollution build up. When we don’t rid our skin of this build up, they can impair your skin’s collagen production which leads to speeding up the appearance of fine lines.

Just reading that, don’t you want to go wash your face right now?

2.Stretch Daily: Most work-out enthusiasts and athletes understand the importance of stretching before and after their workout. But, guess what, stretching is not only needed after high energy, high impact activities. The benefits of stretching are numerous and apply to everyone.

Whether an office worker or a stay at home parent, it’s important to keep your body flexible and reduce any chances for injury. Other great side benefits include reduced stress, better posture, and better

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Kim, Guest Care Associate, with our aromatherapy, photo credit: Sabrina Colgin, instagram

FOUNDATION TO SELF-CARE

cortisol levels. Whether you find a 5 to 10-minute routine that you can commit to daily or grab a few moments to stretch here and there throughout the day, it’s another foundation to self-care. Even better, there isn’t any special equipment needed. You can do it next to your desk, in front of your television, or at the park with your children.

3.A Moment of Reflection: Your mind is just as important as your skin and body to give special care. We describe this tip as a moment of reflection because we want each person to adapt it in a way that’s comfortable and can be incorporated

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into their daily routine. The word meditation can sometimes be intimidating, as if you need a special lesson to make sure you are doing it “right”. While learning about meditation is wonderful and we do encourage it, we also encourage you taking a moment in your car on the way to work, or a breath while the children are napping, or at the end of the night when you lay your head on your pillow. This moment of reflection, of awareness of yourself and those around you, can lead to a better understanding of what is going on in your life now, a better understanding of the path forward and most importantly an internal calm. Include

it in your routine and notice your increased happiness, better ideas, decreased anxiety or depression, and improved concentration.

Q: Top reasons people should visit Sanctuary Spa?

As one of the first spas in the United States, we take pride in our extensive knowledge delivering remarkable spa services and ensuring guests leave happy and return. Sanctuary Spa’s vision for you, our guest, is to provide an amazing spa experience that is personalized to meet your needs, helping to better your body, mind

and soul. Every detail is designed to increase your comfort. Every guest care associate is mindful of your energy and looking to make your day happier. Every technician is ready to partner with you to meet your treatment goals. Whether you are visiting once a year as a Valentine’s treat or become a member and join us each month, we will care for you like our own friends and family and deliver relaxing, results-driven services.

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