Content and Content Creators CLASSYANDCHIC

GEMS

MAGAZINE

Mental Health Gems-Anita Ford Military Gems-Alvin Ford Beauty Gems-Joann Raguayo Faith Gems-Anita Ford Family Gems-Anita Ford Fashion Gems-Wendi Vincent and Betsy Brown Craft Gems-Kayla Colburn Hair Gems-Tracy Colon Health Gems-Nat Melnikov

Editor-Anita Ford A Note from the Editor CLASSYANDCHIC

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Q: Were you ever stationed in another country? A: Yes, I was stationed overseas several times before getting married. After having a family, we were stationed in Germany for three years and I was stationed in Korea for two years.

Army Veteran, Father, Husband, Mentor and Jesus Follower-Retired (1SG) Alvin Ford is a writer in our Military Gems section this month. Retired from serving in the military over 30 Years, Alvin is a hero and his perspective about family, life and faith will bless you. Q: How did the military change your life? A: Being in the military not only changed my life, but it also gave me an added sense of pride to know that I was serving my country and making a difference in the lives of others. I met many lifelong friends with whom I deployed with and later ended up being stationed in the same area. I am so thankful to have served my country. When you’re in the military, you always have family all over the world. It doesn’t matter if your family was given to you by God or you developed an extra family while you were serving, you never forget the people who made a difference in your life.

Q:How would you describe your military family? A:We have two sons and one daughter. All three of our children are resilient. They are brave. They are smart. And most of all, they love the Lord. Now grown adults, each of Q: What was your favorite duty them would tell you that station and why? being a military family A: My favorite duty station was Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. I member is lifestyle they was a Drill Instructor while will never forget. stationed in Missouri. I enjoyed this assignment because I was given the opportunity to lead, train and mentor civilians on their way to becoming soldiers in the Army. No matter where everyone was from, we all had one thing in common... We shared an immense amount of pride for our country.

Q: What does faith men to you? If I want to lead well, I must follow the King. God is first and foremost in my life and I am so very thankful for all that He continuously does for me.

God, Family and Country

MILITARY GEMS

Classyandchic Gems

5 years ago, I was sitting in the car listening to a local Christian radio station in Atlanta. This particular weekend was the weekend before I was scheduled to have major surgery. I prayed and asked God to let His will be done. But, in my mind, I knew God was going to show up in such a huge way that I wouldn't need surgery. God began speaking to me. In a small gentle voice, The Lord simply said to me, “Trust me.” As tears fell down my face, I knew God had a plan for my surgery. I knew I couldn't possibly live the rest of my life with a massive tumor in my abdomen, I knew something had to change for my quality of life to improve. But, I wanted God to take it away. I wanted a miracle to happen. Little did I know, I would have a story that would be a tremendous testament

Blessings

Written By Inspirational Speaker Anita Ford

MENTAL HEALTH GEMS

I can’t tell you the amount of people I've shared my testimony with because I've lost count. God had me speaking life into people while I was facing my own storms. He laid it on my heart to share my testimony with so many people while I was in the hospital, as I was going through recuperation and years later. God took an event in my life that was very painful and turned it into something beautiful. You see, the smile on my face isn't because I haven't been through the fire... My smile is because I've been refined! Most of the people who inspire others have walked through life changing circumstances themselves.

God is in the midst of every storm we face in this life. The devil had a plan to kill me from surgery complications, but God had a greater plan! There is nothing in this life that can steal my joy because I’ve seen God’s favor and grace. I will continue to stand because I know where my help comes from. Your biggest blessings often come in the form of disappointments, but God is faithful to keep you as you walk through life’s hardships and disappointments.Keep running the race! -Inspirational Speaker Anita Ford CLASSYANDCHIC GEMS MAGAZINE

Beauty Beauty Gems Gems

Fall Fall Favorites Favorites with with Beauty Beauty Blogger: Blogger: Joann Joann Raguayo Raguayo from from @JcindyRaguayo.. @JcindyRaguayo..

•What are your 5 beauty must have products in your makeup bag? Eyebrow Pomade,Foundation,Eyeliner,Lipstick and Blush.

We love all things FALL around here and today, we are interviewing Joann to find out her favorite things about fall.

•You receive many compliments about your beautiful skin. What is your every day skincare routine? I take care of my skin by using a dedicated skincare regimen that includes the following products:Cleanser,Toner,Serum and Moisturizer.

•What are your favorite fall clothing items to wear? I love cozy sweaters and boots. •What are your favorite fall comfort foods and drinks? I love soups and warm drinks. •What are your favorite activities to do with you family during the fall? We enjoy family time. Fall traditions for my family include staying home cooking meals, watching movies and making Warm Mexican Drinks.

•What is your favorite drugstore product? My favorite Drugstore Product is Wetnwildbeauty.

BEAUTY GEMS

•How did you learn to perfect your makeup routine? Your makeup is always beautiful. I learned my makeup techniques by practicing everyday. I believe we all learn best by practicing and applying new techniques that look good on our skin.

ClassyandChic Gems Magazine

While the journey to finding your purpose may seem

You are His

’

difficult at times, it s important to never allow the voices of the world to confuse you. The world wants

Masterpiece F A I T H

G E M S

everyone to be cookie cutter versions of each other. The world wants people to compete and compare. The world

’

wants people to assume an identity that doesn t belong

By Anita Ford Photographer: Alvin Ford

to them in order to be accepted. But, take comfort in

’

knowing what s for you, will always be for you and

’

what s for someone else will always be for them.Inspirational Speaker Anita Ford

Classyandchic Gems

CHAMPIONS

CHAMPIONS: WRITTEN BY CREATOR: ANITA FORD If my grandmother could deal with living a life with her legs amputated, I can deal with pain that comes and goes. When I look at life through the shoes of another person, I often find myself seeing new reasons to be strong. So, how do we overcome giants in our daily lives? First, we must be ready for battle and equipped in the word. Second, we must remain thankful.The enemy wants us to grumble, complain, and be ungrateful. But, the truth is, we are blessed beyond measure. Often, it's so easy to look at things with eyes that only see our current situation. But, when we fully trust in God, we know that He will make a way when it seems like there is no way. Many of you may be facing lifealtering situations at this present moment in your life, but be confident in this very thing, He who began a good work in you will see it unto completion. God will never leave you nor forsake you. When we trust in the one who knows our hearts and knows what’s best for us, we can’t fail. I pray that even as we walk through the valley. May we always remember our protector walks beside us and keeps us from harm. What a mighty God we serve! -Inspirational Speaker Anita Ford

We serve a God whose sovereign will outweighs every situation we face in this life. No matter how difficult the circumstance, God always turns trials.

When I think about the word, faith- I think about trusting God in all circumstances.

Family Gems ICLASSYANDCHICGEMS

Affordable Fashion CREATOR: WENDI SANDLER VINCENT

Affordable fashion is easier to find than ever before! With online retailers, to big chain stores, the competition for the consumer’s dollar is in full force! For the price conscious to fashionistas alike, this means a bigger wardrobe at a fraction of the cost. If you’re anything like me, you like variety in your wardrobe, and with these affordable fashion tips, you can have just that!

Online shopping is where I find many of my deals and good finds. First thing I recommend is having an items or items in mind. I’ll then do a quick google search, as well as check on Amazon (I get so many of my pieces on Amazon..if you haven’t checked them out for clothes, you should give them a try) to see which retailer is having the best deal for what I’m looking for at that time. Also make sure to join any of your favorite stores rewards programs if they are free. Ire you looking for?

I save a bundle during the year with these programs and earned free clothes. Some of my favorites include American Eagle, Express and Abercrombie & Fitch. Signing up with one of the afore mentioned for a store credit card will also earn you double points.When I’m shopping in person and looking for the most affordable option, if time permits, I will see which stores are having sales in the department I’m shopping. Once in the store, I also run by the clearance and sale sections first to see what I may be able to piece together for an outfit. Target usually has a good clearance section with many options. Also be sure to sign up for the new Circle Offers for discounts throughout the store. Whether you’re shopping online or in person, the key is to be prepared; what a ; what are you looking for? What is your budget? Are there coupons/discounts you can use? Is there a free rewards program that will earn you a discount? Keeping all of these things in mind will not only make your shopping experience more enjoyable, but more affordable as well.

Connect with Wendy via Social Media: Instagram and Facebook: Beachnfashionista

FASHION GEMS

Classyandchic Gems

Splurges

What are your favorite type of sneakers? Do you select your sneakers based on comfort or style?

Creator: Betsy Brown I’ve never been one not to splurge! It could be my middle name. Not only would I splurge on boots but I’d splurge on an ice cream sundae, a handbag, a necklace, a tennis racket, skis, and so much more. Splurging is such a fun activity! Sometimes I even find ways to splurge without my husband realizing. The conversation reads like this. Him.... new bag? Me....Are you nuts? I’ve had that bag for two years. You never look at anything I’ve ever shown you. So now the successful splurge works! My big splurge that I’m sharing with you are my new sneakers. How can you splurge on sneakers you ask? Sneakers can be more expensive than you’d ever believe!

Connect with Betsy via social media on Facebook and Instagram at @afewgoodygumdrops. FASHION GEMS

Classyandchic Gems Magazine

CRAFTY GIFTS CRAFT GEMS Creator: Kayla Colburn

Oh Hey! I didn’t see you there. Well, don’t be shy. Come on in and find out more about my small business. But before I show you everything, let me introduce myself. My name is Kayla, and I am the owner of ColburnCrafty. This business started out as a fun DIY project to save as much money as I could for my wedding day. Then, so many other people started asking me to make them things. I just fell in love with making people gifts that made them happy and that they could add to their home. In 2015, I began an unimaginable dream and dove right into making a variety of items.

Anything from faux leather earrings, etched glasses, personalized wood and tile signs, baby announcement gifts, farmhouse books, clothing, and so much more. I loved doing it all so much, and my hobby became my business. I always find it eye-opening after I put just one new piece of décor in my home. What a difference that one piece makes! This fall I added a fall tablecloth with a mason jar vase and flowers, and it brightened up my whole kitchen.An item I want to share with you all today is my Farmhouse Books. These books add a beautiful, personal touch to every single home. They can be personalized or just go with the theme of the season. I love putting them on a shelf in the living room, or they even go great on an ottoman. You can truly put them wherever you want in your home. Looking for more inspiration? Check me out by searching ColburnCrafty on the Etsy app!Connect with Kayla on Instagram at @Kaylastylesit.

ICLASSYANDCHIC GEMS

H A I R

G E M S

HEALTHY HAIR By: Tracy Colon

Connect with Tracy at @Findyourdazzle on Instagram and Facebook.

D

As the weather starts to cool down we trade out our summer dresses for cozy knits, scarves, and boots. But how often do we think about changing up our haircare for the fall? When the temperature drops your hair becomes prone to breakage and may start to lack moisture due to the cool, dry weather. That's why fall is the perfect time to start prepping your hair for the colder months. Not sure where to start? I've got you covered with two essential hair care products that will protect, hydrate, and keep your hair healthy all season long!

Deep Conditioning Treatment Cold weather and dry climates can really wreak havoc on the health of your hair. That's why it's important to keep your strands hydrated with a high quality deep conditioning treatment once a week or biweekly. My favorite deep conditioning treatment is Overtone's The Remedy. The Remedy is a hair mask that delivers intense hydration and is filled with nourishing ingredients. This treatment is 100% vegan, free of ammonias, parabens, and sulfates. Each time you use this hair mask you will notice visibly shinier, bouncy, and frizz-free hair. It's a great option for color treated hair, curly tresses, and anyone looking to add some life back into their hair! Overtone even offers a version of The Remedy hair mask for people with fine hair so that you don't have to worry about the treatment weighing down your hair.

Heat Styling Protectant

If you tend to use hot tools in the cooler months then a heat styling protectant is a must. And yes, you need a heat protectant even if you're just blow drying your hair. You may not realize it, but your blow dryer could be just as damaging as your curling wand! Heat protectant products create a protective layer over the cuticle of the hair which helps your strands from becoming overly exposed to the heat thus preventing further damage. It also helps your hair to retain moisture, lock in shine, and prevent frizz. Living Proof Restore Instant Protection Protective Styling Hairspray is a great choice for many different hair types because it's lightweight, silicone-free, and protects your hair up to 450F/250C. In addition, it provides UV-ray protection, static control, and helps to keep your hair silky smooth.

Next, take small steps. Make sure you stay

HEALTH BY NAT

GEMS

CREATOR: MELNIKOV

hydrated. Can you add a few more veggies to your plate? Try to use less processed foods, and add more of whole foods. Most importantly, give yourself a praise for every small win and enjoy the process. “You yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection.” – Buddha

Are you feeling overwhelmed with the amount of,

Connect with Nat on Instagram at

sometimes very contradictious, nutritional

@Prettyveganfit.

information out there? Have you tried any possible diet but are still trying to take your weight and health under control? If you answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions, know that you are not the only one. A number of diets claiming to be “the one” has been growing exponentially in the last 30 years. We are told to eliminate food groups, count calories, detox, and the list can go on and on. Add all that to our busy life schedules and you got a recipe for a failure. How do we keep up with all those recommendations and should we? Where do we start? The obvious (or not so) answer is start with your goals. Is it weight loss or weight gain? Is it improving your flexibility, strength, or hearth health? Once you are clear on that, take your measurements and check your weight, and start a food journal. Simply record everything you eat for at least a week and how you are feeling. Are you feeling tired? Energized? Ready to conquer the world? Be as honest as you can, as you are doing it for yourself. Next, review your food journal and take your measurements again. Have you gained or lost weight? If your goal is to lose weight and your measurements are up, take another look at your food. Is there something that you shouldn’t have had? What is that? Once again, be as honest as you can. No need to give yourself a hard time, it is just an analysis first. FHealth Gems

Classyandchic Gems Magazine

THERE IS IMMEASURABLE BEAUTY FOUND IN A PERSON WHO ALL OF THE ODDS WERE STACKED AGAINST THEM, BUT GOD STEPPED IN AND SAVED THEM. INSPIRATIONAL SPEAKER ANITA FORD