Huami Magazine Raleigh/Durham January/February 2018

RALEIGH-DURHAM

Jan./Feb. 2018 Volume 2 Issue 3 FREE

Endivo Hair Gallery

Raleigh/Durham - January/February 2018

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Raleigh/Durham - January/February 2018

www.jj-catering.com

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My Actions Will Make My Dreams A Reality There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!

A Letter From The Editor

Happy New Year!

A Letter from the Editor

If I was to sit at home and dream about vacationing on a tropical island, my imagination would be the only island I would visit. In order What if being tomorrow All with of your hopes I for my physical to bedidn’t able toarrive? catch up my plans, imagination, and dreams wouldn’t have a street park What if would have to make arrangements for it to to do so.on.

Such arrangements everything that you decided to put off until tomorrow may involve contacting a travel agent, purchasing tickets for never a flight, happened?

There would be no reason to save for a rainy and booking a hotel room at a resort. In other words, my reality will could spareby someone the trouble of making only day, existand if anyou action is made me to breathe life into my dreams. promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expired today?

What would you do?given to me, came during a stormy Some of the best advice ever season in my life. Though I wasn’t quite aware of what I was I’ve been told that I often seemcared like Iabout do toomy much. experiencing, someone who genuinely present as well Honestly, I feelme likeaIlife ampreserver. not doing They enough a firm as my future threw toldand meI’m to pay very close believer in knowing thaton God wouldn’t putthat anything on me and attention to what was going around me and not everyone that I couldn’t handle. to I sometimes wonder how“Don’t life would everything I was connected was purposed for me. allow if I chose toyour sit idle and accept what it presented to me. that be or them to kill purpose,” I clearly recall them telling me. I didn’t know whatthat to do it then but the picture would become have found to with be very boring.

In my opinion, opportunity clearer me at athat later time. is afor blessing isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen?

It If was obvious to Iothers that purpose my life, though I do nothing, fail, and if I had try I adon’t, butfor instead learn I wasn’t aware of it.

As I tried to get along and fit in, the bottom something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in appeared give way. returntoacquire life.While the winds of my storm raged with intensity, I was pulled in one direction and knocked down in another. I began The to seek from others buttothat complicated things. This besthelp advice ever given me only happened when someone was totally character for me because was “Mr. told meout to of make my tomorrow happenI today.

InIndependent” doing so and accustomed to having all of the answers and handling I have pressed my way through doors with a key thatthings only all by myself. hope provided. I have also learned the difference between what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with Quite often I look back at knowing that moment and it was God as well.

I compare it to when to realize be confident and working through them to reach me. Those experiences taught when to be quiet, becauseme a great deal about may myself. that someone get Iitlearned confused it is alright to be trusting and caring, with being arrogant. but to also be aware of those who have been sent by the enemy to stunt my Make you tomorrow growth. I also learned if I am running happen today, but most to something that is running away from importantly make it count. me, let it go. When I try to force my Life is but a whisper and way into a situation that has proven we must put ourselves in a I don’t belong there, I am asking for position to hear trouble.

What God has what for meit isis for telling us. for me to obtain it, I me, and in order must act upon it to make it a reality.

Terry L. Watson Terry L. Watson Editor/Founder 4

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www.huamimagazine.com www.huamimagazine.com Editor In Chief Terry L Watson

Publisher Terry L. Watson Allen - Deputy Editor DawnAlana C. Thornton Writer Dr. Marrissa Dick Writer Writers Terry L. Watson Tonya Dixon Writer Terry L. Watson Alana Donald Wilson Allen Tamara Smith Photographer Jeuron Ashleigh Crawley Dove Photographer Toni Shaw Photographer Photographers JerryTodd Barbry

Photographer Perfect Lenz Photography Youngblood Photography Shaw Photography Group Still Shots Photography

Howard Gaither Photography Who Shotya Photography

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HUAMI MAGAZINE is published bimonthly quarterly by the Mykel Media Company. Any reproduction of any portion of this publication is prohibited without written permission from the publisher prior to doing so. Mykel Media doesn’t accept responsibility for statements made by individuals featured or advertisers. Comments concerning this publication may be submitted to the editor by E-mail at terrywatson@huamimagazine.com Email or Telephone terry.editor@yahoo.com terry.editor@yahoo.com or to 336-340-7844 Mykel Media Company, LLC P.O. Box 20102 Greensboro, NC 27420 HUAMI MAGAZINE 2018 All Rights Reserved 2014 All Rights Reserved

On The Cover

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CONTENTS

RALEIGH/DURHAM

Endivo Hair Gallery

Mavis Peaks

On The Cover

Favor Desserts Keijuane Hester

NASHVILLE

YES Builds Consulting & Coaching Yolanda Shields

RICHMOND

Hey Jocey Joceyln Lynch

TRIAD

The Birthing Movement, Inc. Shayla Hilton and Na’Tosha Brooks

MEMPHIS

Go To Girl Tech Solutions Kimberly Wamble

CHARLOTTE

Just Being Jessica Jessica Jordan

GREENVILLE/SPARTANBURG

Olivers Financial Planning Services Stacey Oliver

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Rights of Disposition

Carlton L. Gray

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018

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Kids Rising Into Success

Stephanie Smith

Huami Magazine Cutest Baby

August Jett

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Also Featured Pastor Manwell Faison Inspite of the challenges, She is still finding her way to the top.

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Shirley Williams

Author of “Coversations With The Little Girl With in”

12 Angela Kelley

A+ Introductions Dating Services of Raleigh

22 Raleigh/Durham - January/February 2018

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Keijuane Hester

Favor Desserts

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Raleigh/Durham - January/February 2018

By Dawn Cauthen Thornton Photos by Still Shots Photography he website, Dictionary.com, defines the word ‘recipe’ as a set of instructions for making or preparing something. It also explains it as a method to attain a desired end. The selected ingredients, ideas, and concepts are key to creating either a recipe for disaster or a recipe for success. Keijuane Hester, owner and operator of two bakeries, has experience in both.

In the spring of 1996, Keijuane was sentenced to 42 months in federal prison for selling and distributing narcotics. While serving time, another inmate, who was a baker in the kitchen, befriended then persuaded him to learn how to bake. Keijuane wasn’t interested at all, but in his stubbornness, he couldn’t help but notice how popular his friend’s cakes were.

“The other inmates would line up around the corner just to get a slice of whatever he baked that day. And I realized there might be something to this,” Keijuane remembers. After he took notice, Keijuane asked his friend if he could get him a job in the bakery, and he did, right alongside him. The mentor hoped that Keijuane would have a trade upon his release so he wouldn’t follow in the footsteps of many others and run back to his criminal behavior. According to statistics, more than 50% of offenders return to prison within 5 years of their original release date. It seems that Keijuane’s mentor was trying to be preemptive and discourage that idea.

Though baking was the last thing he wanted to do, Keijuane learned how to make everything from cookies, cakes, and pies, to cheesecake and bread, all from scratch.

Since selling products is what put him behind bars, it’s not surprising that Keijuane’s main goal was to earn a few dollars, pushing his goods to anyone who would buy them.

“Out of all the things I learned how to make, I only wrote the recipe down for one thing, and that was carrot cake. It was so good that I said I was going to make it for my family when I got home.” Keijuane spent almost four years away from his loved ones and the life he knew prior to his conviction. As soon as he returned home, a friend helped him land a job as a lab technician and he hit the ground running. He would occasionally pull the popular recipe out for company potlucks and special occasions, and noticed that every crumb would be gone within a few minutes of the first bite. His co-workers were amazed at his skills and began making requests. A relative took notice and urged him to consider it as a ‘side hustle.’

Continued on the next page Triad - November/December 2017

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“After I didn’t get the job I was hoping for, something on the inside of me said step out and use your gift.”

Raleigh/Durham, NC 5607 HW 55 - Suite 105 Durham, NC 27713 919-908-9264

Greensboro, NC

2804 Randleman Road - Ste P Greensboro, NC 27405 (919) 908-9264

www.favordesserts.com

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“Before, I was hustling cocaine in the street but had converted to selling cakes. I felt like it was corny. So I shrugged it off and didn’t consider it.”

Soon, Keijuane fell back into old habits and resumed his life of crime when he reunited with some old friends from prison. On June 5, 2001, the former drug dealer was spared during an operation that could’ve cost him more years behind bars. His best friend was busted by federal agents, during a drug deal, with Keijuane sitting in a car one block away awaiting his return. His friend was sentenced to 22 ½ years in prison – more than five times the amount Keijuane was sentenced just a few years prior. He knows that could’ve easily been him.

It didn’t take long for the street hustler to hang up his illegal desires and commit to a more stable lifestyle.

Unfortunately, a job lay-off followed, as did a rejection from a potential employer.

“After I didn’t get the job I was hoping for, something on the inside of me said step out and use your gift.”

That gift was baking. The self-taught business man found himself staring at the carrot cake recipe once again. With $30 in his pocket and a small kitchen to utilize, Keijuane started visiting every open-door establishment he could find. He was nervous and still unsure, but forged ahead.

Barbershops, beauty salons, and nail salons were his first stops. With each slice he sold, he would reinvest the money to purchase new ingredients, pots, pans, and eventually a business license. His new product created a buzz around town and in 2012, he opened Favor Desserts in Durham, NC. “I really believe that I had to go to prison to find the gift of baking and be that beacon of hope. I feel like I’m just an instrument God used to show other black males that they can turn their lives around and be something positive,” Keijuane explains.

This past spring, Favor Desserts 2 had its grand opening in Greensboro and Keijuane is currently perusing property in the Charlotte area to bring his mouthwatering sweets to the Queen City in the fall of 2018.

His red velvet, five flavor pound, and carrot cakes are his specialties. Customers line up outside the door and around the corner for a taste. Although this seems very familiar, his clientele is much different and needless to say, so is he.

Pictured above are members of the staff of the Raleigh/Durham location.

From left to right are D’Ontray, Sara, Alonzo, Tonika and Keijuane.

Currently, Keijuane not only has his hands in cake batter and icing, but he’s attending school at NC Central University, he volunteers his time and his previous misfortune to encourage those who are on the brink of giving up, and a host of other charitable efforts. While he was traveling this road to redemption God, his parents and a special best friend helped guide him and see him through. His four children are his ultimate motivation.

He’s unsure of their interest in the family business just yet, but he plans on creating an empire for them just in case they are. h

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Stephanie Smith

Kids Rising Into Success

By Terry L. Watson - Photos by Jerry Barbry Being a mother herself is what helps Stephanie Smith to easily grasp the challenges that come with operating a childcare center. She considers herself to be strong, positive, and motivated. She also has a sincere passion for education, as well as educating others; a passion that has produced K.R.I.S. Childcare Center. K.R.I.S, Kids Rising Into Success Childcare Center is a 4 Star licensed Family Childcare Home, offering quality education and childcare, Monday through Friday. Drop-in care is offered evenings and weekends for date nights, second shift working parents, or parents taking night courses. To ensure the minds and bodies of her young students are performing at an optimum level, Smith provides nutritious meals including breakfast, lunch, snacks and dinner, all of which are prepared on-site.

K.R.I.S, Kids Rising into Success Childcare Center came about while Smith was doing what comes naturally to her, parenting. “I sat at the computer in my home in the wee hours of the night, nursing my four month old son while working on a class assignment. The assignment was to create a layout of my dream childcare center, everything from inventory to creating a brochure. I had completed all the requirements of the assignment, except the name of the center.

I played around with various names, Ms. Smith’s Nest, Mama Steph’s House of Learning, but nothing happened. I was deep in thought and I almost forgot my son was in my arms until he made a little “coo”. I looked at him and said, “Kris”. I held on to the brochure from the class as a reminder that K.R.I.S, Kids Rising into Success Childcare Center would open one day,” she says.

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When she and her husband purchased their home in 2006, she had visions of transforming the entire house into a fully functioning center. She contemplated often and then put it aside and let life move on. After working at several childcare centers over the years, she revisited the idea again in 2015. Then life happened. Smith suffered a series of life altering setbacks that really challenged her as a person. “I suffered from ruptured intestines which caused excruciating pain and infected my entire body. I then had a lapsed lung, inches of my intestines removed, and relied on the assistance of an ileostomy bag. After having a inability to walk I also learned that I had been living with IBD (Irritable Bowel Disorder) known as Crohn’s Disease for the last 15 years. This illness set me down for the entire year at the age of 30. I was unable to care for my children and lost my job as Associate Director at a local University Childcare Center. I thought my life was over. As my family and friends stood by my side day and night, they encouraged me to not give up. My mother continued to encourage me to keep the faith. Things really changed when my husband held my hand, looked me in the eyes and reminded me of my dream, K.R.I.S Childcare Center,” she says.

Childcare Center

(919) 342-8829 krischildcarecenter@gmail.com

Smith is an educator at heart. She earned her BS in Family and Consumer Sciences from North Carolina Central University in 2007, eight months pregnant with her daughter (second child) and oldest child (1-years-old at the time) yelling “Mommy” in the audience. In October 2009, she decided to go back to school to pursue a Master’s Degree in Business Administration. She earned her MBA with a concentration in Human Resources Management from Strayer University in December 2012. “I enjoy education, learning about the world, what surrounds me and how things evolve as time changes. As a teenager I was often left to babysit and care for my younger cousins. I never complained and enjoyed every moment of it, from preparing meals to teaching them new things such as cooking, arts, and crafts. I’ve always had a passion to care for children in some way,” she says.

Moving forward Smith hopes to do even more to help make the lives of her young students better. Currently she is completing a business plan for a Drop Off care center. She hopes to open the center in 2020. From there, she plans to expand to other surrounding cities and states, preferably near Historically Black Colleges and Universities. “I am inspired to educate children between the ages of birth to five years of age. This age range is so precious and powerful because it has the potential to shape and mold a child’s cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. Instilling knowledge at an early age paves the way for future doctors, lawyers, business leaders and maybe even the next president of the United States. Knowing I have been a part of those lives motivates me every day,” says Smith. h

Raleigh/Durham - January/February 2018

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Author Shirley T. Harris

By Terry L. Watson Photos y Shirley T. Harris hirley T. Harris is a native New Yorker who also has roots also in Durham, N.C. She has recently settled in the Charlotte area and is eager to call North Carolina her new home.

Harris is a spiritual Christian who doesn’t back away from a challenge, but rather meets life head on.

She is an author who thinks of herself as a life change facilitator, and not just a professional life coach. She also believes that everyone is the sum total of the choices they make in life, whether good, bad or indifferent and that those choices are the result of the thoughts they have about circumstances or people in any given moment. “I believe the goal for life should be to get better with time. I can’t just sit back and watch people with life, suffer and decline. I am passionate about human rights and empowering women to examine their role in toxic relationships

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with their adult children and others, and supporting them in developing a strategic exit plan to safely exit an abusive relationship,” she says.

For more than twenty years she has worked in the non-profit sector as a business owner, freelance grant-writer and nonprofit administrator. She has over fifty years of life and is starting a new career as an author, speaker and life change facilitator. “My desire as an author is to produce creative works that will provide solutions to some of the most challenging issues in life such as forgiveness, emotional healing and liberation from painful childhood memories. After reading my books, I hope my readers are more open-minded to the world in which they live, and gain a renewed perspective of who they inherently are,” she says.

Her book “Conversations With The Little Girl Within” is about forgiveness and learning to accept one’s path in life, understanding that there is more to the physical realm than one can imagine, and also learning to forgive those that caused hurt. “It’s about letting go of the painful childhood memories and learning to make peace with your past so that you can create a better future. Our past does

Raleigh/Durham - January/February 2018

not define who we are no matter what we’ve gone through. There is a higher purpose and many times people get stuck. Unfortunately, they are unable to move past it or see the greater good for life,” says Harris. “That is where I provide solutions.”

She also has written “A Journey of Forgiveness, Healing and Liberation From Unresolved Childhood Issues”. She has also created a five CD audio series entitled “4 Steps to Reveal Your Divine Nature”.

The series is for people seeking a basic understanding of spiritual principles. It also includes a bonus CD in which she shares her pearls of wisdom.

Last year Harris became certified as a PSYCH–K Facilitator. PSYCH-K techniques incorporate left and right brain exercises to quickly and painlessly change subconscious beliefs that are limiting the full expression of a person’s potential in life. These techniques are very effective for people wanting to develop powerful belief statements to overwrite negative and disempowering beliefs about themselves. h To learn more about Shirley Harris please contact her at www.shirleytharris.com

Rights of Knowing What To Do Before The Time Arrives Information provided by Carlton L. Gray

2810 Kidd Road - Raleigh, NC 27610 919-231-6120 www.carltonlgrayfuneral.com This rule or law may vary from state to state to some degree, but it is the most universally accepted manner of establishing and defining the responsible party. For our article we will be using the laws set forth in the state of North Carolina General Statute 130420(a).

It very important to know that the state of North Carolina does not recognize common law marriage as of this article. So if you have a spouse that has not legally divorced from a prior marriage, it could cause some conflict of interest at the time of death. Here are the Rights of Disposition for the state of North Carolina.

G.S. 130A-420(a).

If a decedent has left no written authorization for the cremation and disposition of the decedent’s body as permitted under subdivision (1) of this subsection, the following competent persons in the order listed may authorize the type, method, place, cremation, and disposition of the decedent’s body:

A The surviving spouse. of the surviving children who are at least 18 years of age B Aandmajority can be located after reasonable efforts.

C The surviving parents.

A majority of the surviving siblings who are at least 18 years of

D age and can be located after reasonable efforts.

E

A majority of the persons in the classes of the next degrees of kinship, in descending order, who, under State law, would inherit the decedent’s estate if the decedent died intestate who are at least 18 years of age and can be located after reasonable efforts.

F

A person who has exhibited special care and concern for the decedent and is willing and able to make decisions about the cremation and disposition.

G

In the case of indigents or any other individuals whose final disposition is the responsibility of the State or any of its instrumentalities, a public administrator, medical examiner, coroner, State-appointed guardian, or any other public official charged with arranging the final disposition of the decedent may serve as the authorizing agent.

H

In the case of individuals who have donated their bodies to science or whose death occurred in a nursing home or private institution and in which the institution is charged with making arrangements for the final of the decedent, a representative of such institution a disposition may serve as the authorizing agent in the absence of any of the above.

the absence of any of the above, any person willing to assume b Inresponsibility as authorizing agent, as specified in this act.

Mavis Peaks

Endivo Hair Gallery

HuamiMagazine.com

Raleigh/Durham - January/February 2018

By Dr. Marrissa Dick Photos by Jerry Barbry

reams do come true. Just ask Mavis Peaks, owner and operator of Endivo Hair Gallery in Durham, North Carolina.

“Since the age of four I have been fascinated with hair. I used to play with my mom’s hair all the time. I remember when Vaseline and spit were my go to products for doing her hair,” Mavis chuckles. Most people can remember back in the day when Diana Ross was “The Boss” and the world was fascinated with her heavy mane of hair and little Mavis was no different.

She shares, “I fell in love with Diana Ross and after watching her receive the Diva Award on MTV I knew when I got older I was going to have my own hair salon.”

All through middle and high school Mavis recalls perfecting her craft as a hair stylist as her mother allowed company to visit her at home. Not only did she continue thinking about obtaining her own salon, but she also wondered how she was going to pay for it all. At the time Mavis assumed that stylists didn’t earn much money doing hair so instead of following her dream after graduating from high school she chose to study law. It didn’t take her long before she realized that being an attorney wasn’t in the cards for her, so she chose a career in information technology, instead.

Needless to say, her second choice didn’t sit well with her either. While reflecting on her future Mavis realized that even though she had tried other career paths she was still doing hair on the side.

Thank goodness Mavis was blessed with a mother who afforded her a third opportunity to get it right. She recalls her mother saying, “This will be your last opportunity, what do you want to do?” So, she told her mother that she wanted to attend beauty school. She is grateful that her mother supported her endeavor of becoming a licensed cosmologist. Since her initial licensure, Mavis has completed Honors Beauty College and then continued her certification at one of the premier beauty accredited institutions, Dudley’s Beauty University.

Now that she had credentials in hand and had garnered experience by working under the tutelage of seasoned stylists in the industry, Mavis began working on acquiring her own hair salon with her husband, Michael Peaks, Sr. She quickly realized that the process was not going to be an easy undertaking. She says, “We’ve been in business for 20 years and counting. I quickly learned that any process you start isn’t going to be easy. Opening the salon involved a lot of blood, sweat, and tears.” The process she’s referring to is launching Endivo Hair Gallery and being newly married while trying to understand the role of being a

“We’ve been in business for 20 years and counting. I quickly learned that any process you start isn’t going to be easy. Opening the salon involved a lot of blood, sweat, and tears”.

Mavis Peaks Continued on the next page

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Continued from the previous page wife and mother. Not to mention the financial responsibility involved.

Mavis recalls, “We made a lot of sacrifices, but my husband was my backbone. He was my support system. It was really hard and sometimes when I wanted to give up he was like, ‘No this is your dream and you’re going to continue with it. We don’t give up in this family. We keep pushing through and we’ll see the rewards in the end.’ That was his motto so, I kept pressing.” Thank goodness for Mavis that she was blessed with a Philippians 3:14 man, “I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” Mavis asserts that her husband wouldn’t allow her to give up. He constantly reminded her that she would reap the benefits of the sacrifice and for her to look for the light at the end of the tunnel. Fortunately, Mavis saw that light at the end of the tunnel as her clientele grew through word of mouth within her community.

Mavis has endured her share of losses. Not long after her mother passed, her husband Micheal of 19 years of marriage, was killed in a tragic motorcycle accident.

“First, I lost my mother then I turned around and lost my husband. I didn’t know how to handle any of that. Those were the two-major people in my life, my biggest supporters.

He was my soulmate. He’s the father of my two children, Michael Jr. and Madison.

What do you do with that?”

As a humanitarian Mavis utilizes her God given talent as a ministry for her community. Endivo Hair Gallery has opened its doors to partner with cancer organizations, Dress for Success, and Back to School initiatives. She shares, “We partner with several organizations and give our services back to the community because we’re a part of them. We open our doors to the underprivileged kids in the community and we adopt families. I believe we make a difference for those we assist.”

Mavis believes that it’s particularly important to give back because God has blessed her with the ability to “transform” the consumer. When they come in they look one way but when they leave out of Endivo they look another way. Though she doesn’t expect special thanks for her services she is excited when those she has assisted come back with positive feedback saying, “Hey I got the job! Dress for Success gave me the clothes and you did my hair!” or seeing the smiles on the young girls faces knowing they can go to school with their hair done.

Those types of acknowledgements remind her that she and her stylists do make a difference because they are helping others feel good about themselves and helping them achieve their next mile stone in life.

So, what happens when you wake up one day and it seems as though putting God first in your life, and your good works are counted as a burnt sacrifice? Mavis shares, “I’ve gone through many obstacles in my life and these obstacles have taught me how to get back up once you’ve been knocked down. First, I lost my mother then I turned around and lost my husband. I didn’t know how to handle any of that.

Those were the two-major people in my life, my biggest supporters. Of course, my mom was always there to help me keep things balanced, but then turning around and losing my husband after 19-years of marriage. He was my soulmate. He’s the father of my two children, Michael Jr. and Madison. What do you do with that? I didn’t know where to go or who I could turn to for the type of emotional stability they provided for me. Don’t get me wrong, I received great support from my stylists, our family and friends, my community and my clients but I had a hard time processing what had just happened to me. And then dealing with people telling me ‘he’s in a better place and God doesn’t make any mistakes’ well at the time I felt He had made a mistake. Here I am in my mid-forties with the loss of my mother and my husband and two children to raise alone. I didn’t believe God needed my mother or my husband up there with Him. They were needed here with me. I mean I had sunken into a deep dark place. I couldn’t go to work; I just couldn’t move.”

A month had past and Mavis began reflecting upon her life. She began reading The Purpose Driven Life which gave her inspiration and direction. She is also thankful for those who were praying for her and her children because she believes it’s through those prayers that God allowed divine intervention to take place. According to Mavis, “My husband came to me and said, ‘Get up Mavis! I will see you on

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Raleigh/Durham - January/February 2018

the other side one day! Get up!’ and I got up. It was a struggle, but I knew I had to figure out a new purpose and direction for my life. Death knocked me down and I know this may sound so cliché’ but what the devil meant for my bad God meant for my good. So, I got up so my children could get up and get it together too.” Talk about a testimony.

Leaning on the Lord daily Mrs. Mavis Peaks is standing, and Endivo Hair Gallery and its’ stylists remain standing strong, too.

Pressing through is what Mavis and her stylists do best. Their motto is “Look Good Feel Even Better.” From the moment clients enter through the doors of Endivo Hair Gallery they receive a WOW experience. Mavis asserts, “We make sure that we give each guest a WOW experience. We cater to all their needs while they are with us from the beginning to the middle to when they check out. Our customer service is one of the attractions we’re known for.” Another attribute Endivo Hair Gallery stylists are known for is understanding that, “Your look is something to be found, not created. Endivo’s legendary hair stylists have been trained to find the clients look, exploit their best attributes, and adapt their hair styles to the client’s personality and lifestyle.”

They specialize in working with the topical portion of alopecia and they also provide make-up applications. Any of these services can be garnered seven days a week.

Mavis would like to thank all those who have stood by her through her trials and tribulations. For those who may be enduring hardships in life her words of encouragement and wisdom are simple, “First of all you have to put God first in everything you do no matter what happens. My husband was a firm believer in that and I am too. Secondly, you don’t always have to reinvent the wheel, but you do have to go in and make the necessary changes that are going to benefit you. The one thing my husband taught me was that the only thing I’m responsible for is today. What I did yesterday is already gone and time waits for no one. If you look at yourself 10 or 15 years from now and you’re still doing the same thing and haven’t changed your situation or reinvented yourself then that’s on you and I understand that now.”

Mavis Peaks is complimented by a very talented and dedicated cast of stylist. Shakira Clark has worked in the salon industry for over 23 years. She is a graduate of Dudley Beauty College in Durham, NC. She specializes in weaving services and natural hair blowouts. She is also an educator and celebrity stylist. Shakira is passionate about teaching upcoming beauty professionals and sharing her knowledge about the beauty industry. Her children are her biggest supporters and motivation. She enjoys inspiring single mothers in becoming entrepreneurs and encourages them to follow their dreams. Shakira believes that with God all things are possible, and she’ll be walking into her divine purpose in 2018. She also looks forward to changing the lives of the clients she serves one head at a time.

Nichole H. Echard has been a professional stylist for 26 years. She is a graduate of Dudley Cosmetology School in Kernersville, NC. She specializes in permanent waves, coloring techniques, relaxing, cutting and updos – waves. Her children are her joy. She is passionate about watching the transformation of her clients as she has serviced them over the years. She is humbled by their continued support. Nichole provides some keys to success that all stylists could glean. She believes that stylists should be professional, make their clients feel good from beginning to end, have a genuine attitude, and definitely have a good reputation. She reminds us all that clients sit in your chair because they want to. h

Endivo Hair Gallery

1058 W Club Blvd - Ste 241 Durham, NC 27707 (919) 401-4078

www.endivohairgalleryinc.com Leah Hill has 30 years of hair styling experience. She is a graduate of Eastern Montgomery Community Technical School in Willow Grove, PA. She specializes in relaxers, coloring, cutting, and giving the hair and scalp the attention needed to maintain healthiness and flexibility. The one thing she really enjoys about the beauty industry is that stylists can make their own work schedule. She is grateful to her mother for all the support she has provided for her and also is appreciative of the relationships she has established with her clients over the years.

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Cutest Baby

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August Jett The son of Melody and Rashaan Jett Photo provided by Still Shots Photography

To submit photographs to be placed in the Huami Magazine Cutest Baby feature, please send a detailed email to huami.cutestbaby@gmail.com

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Manwell Faison Pastor

New Destiny Worship Center 101 Donald Ross Dr. Raleigh N.C 27610

In fact, just getting to see another year is a miracle for you. After all you have survived in your life there must be a purpose greater than your pain. You have survived things that have destroyed other people but you are still here.

Why? You have got to have a tomorrow because all your yesterdays couldn’t kill you. Even though you have made mistakes you were not made a mistake. Your history is powerless to stop your destiny because your opportunity is now and is greater than your regret.

The devil knows that you are about to enter the greatest year of your life and he is using people and problems to stop you before you make it. He hopes that this time you give up like all the other times you tried to change, but he has made the mistake of counting you out. He has buried you too soon because the God who is on your side has resurrection power. Get ready because God is about to turn your setbacks into a comeback, your miseries into victory, and your pain into power. There is more right with you than there is wrong. So, arise from the ground and shake off the dirt.

Pull your dreams out of 2017’s casket and put them back on 2018’s calendar. You are still going to do great things with your life this year. Your future is calling you. Refuse to stay buried beneath your past.

Information and Photo provided by Pastor Manwell Faison

My friend it’s NO accident that you are reading this. I asked God to use this article to encourage somebody as this new year begins. Because of what you are going through right now you were supposed to get this today at this very moment. There is a reason why life is able to fight you but not able to finish you, and I want to tell you why: You are so great that nobody knows you in your full potential yet.

You are judged for what you have done by those who must be afraid of what you are about to do. This explains why you are mistreated by enemies pretending to be friends. They know they can’t stop where favor is taking you. Stop waiting for those who didn’t believe in you in 2017, to give you permission to believe in yourself in 2018.

Their jealousy is confirming that even they know you are greater than what they say about you.

Ask yourself this, “If I am not going to be somebody then why is everybody and everything fighting me so hard now?” You’re being fought now for who you’ll be later.

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What is New Destiny Worship Center (NDWC) about?

New Destiny Worship Center is a multicultural nondenominational church convinced and devoted to the reality that Jesus has an incredible plan for each of our lives.

We are committed to helping those who have lost their way or have been wounded by the enemy of their souls. The cry of our hearts at New Destiny Worship Center is to discover God anew and in deeper ways than ever before. We are desperate for Him. We want to see Jesus lifted up and people coming to know Him in a real way.

In addition to powerful worship services inside the walls, we are active outside of them as well. Through our outreach ministry we are able to feed the hungry, give away clothes, impact the youth, transport residents to church from area shelters, and provide a free Christian movie theater. NDWC is determined to be God’s hand extended to a hurting humanity.

If you are ever in the Raleigh area and want to come to a greater understanding of God’s love, experience God’s marvelous touch, and remove the cloak of heaviness and replace it with a garment of praise and be mightily free in Jesus, we welcome you to New Destiny Worship Center.

We long for pure fellowship with a community of believers without agendas, loving people, and worshiping Jesus as the only King. h

Raleigh/Durham Raleigh/Durham- -January/February January/February 2018 2018

Little Known Black History Facts

Huami Magazine Celebrates Our Nation’s Black History

Information provided by www. http://pickettsmill.typepad.com (101 Little Known Black History Facts)

Louis Latimer

Ruth Ella Moore

Louis Latimer was the only African American engineer/ scientist member of the elite Edison Pioneers research and development organization. Until Latimer’s process for making carbon filament, Edison’s light bulbs would burn only for a few minutes. Latimer’s filament burned for hours.

Ruth Ella Moore received a Ph.D. in Bacteriology from Ohio State University in 1933 becoming the first black female to do so.

Dr. Moore served as the Head of the Department of Bacteriology at Howard University Medical College from 1947 to 1958.

Fanny Jackson Coppin

Frederick McKinley Jones If you enjoy buying fresh food from across the country at your local supermarket, you have an African American inventor named Frederick McKinley Jones to thank. He invented the air-cooling units used in food transporting trucks in the 1930s, and was awarded more than 60 patents over the course of his life, 40 of which involved refrigeration equipment.

Fanny Jackson Coppin, bought into freedom by her aunt, was an educator and missionary. Her innovations as head principle of the Institute of Colored Youth included a practice teaching system and an elaborate industrial training department.

Sarah Boone

Walter S. McAfee

African American Sarah Boone patented an improvement to the ironing board on April 26, 1892.

Sarah Boone’s ironing board was designed to be effective in ironing the sleeves and bodies of ladies’ garments.

Walter S. McAfee is the African American mathematician and physicist first calculatedthe speed of the moon. On January 10, 1946 a radar pulse was transmitted towards the moon. Two and a half seconds later, they received a faint signal, proving that transmissions from earth could cross the vast distances of outer space.

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Raleigh/Durham - January/February 2018

By Terry L. Watson Photos provided by Stacey Oliver Stacey M. Oliver is the founder of Olivers Financial Planning Services Agency, LLC and Financial Kick Start JBJO, Inc., a non profit organization. Known for her gift of gab, in the midst of her younger years, she had cynical ramifications for people calling her “Gabby”. In Oliver’s adulthood, she figured out how to embrace her gift as she comprehended the vitality of the blessing.

With her fluent and powerful speaking, she can sell the socks off anyone. Oliver’s natural sales ability in the corporate financial arena positioned her to receive several awards for top sales with one of the largest diversified financial services companies in the United States. She is an Empowerment Speaker, Certified Accounting Clerk, Licensed Independent Agent, and serves on various boards and committees for financial wellness in the upstate of South Carolina. She has established herself as an expert in the field and is extremely insightful and keen on the financial industry.

Oliver was exposed to the world of finance at an early age by her parents. She recalls her father, James M. Scott, taking her to the bank most Saturdays and acquainting her with the bank representatives and completing a bank visit. In the midst of each visit, he demonstrated to her the proper way to do basic banking. Her parents discussed the value of money in their home and talked about writing checks, the different ways to save, and the importance of investing.

Her paternal grandparents gifted her with money to open her first minor savings account. As she continued to save, her father would take her to the bank to deposit her saved coins in her savings account. One day she found herself working at the same bank her dad took her to visit as a child.

During her banking career, she encountered minorities of all ages who were clueless about their creditworthiness, the essentialness of investing or how to transfer wealth to their loved ones. It was then she acknowledged the urgency to venture out and establish her own business of financial planning services. She saw the absence of learning and a critical need to offer services to demonstrate to individuals generally accepted methods to be monetarily stable. Her mother, Ruby N. Scott, constantly unveiled to her that the sky has no constraints, with God all things are possible if you put Him first. In the pursuit of her purpose and destiny, she held to the principles and ethics her parents and grandparents bestowed in her. With those standards and morals, she built her family.

Oliver firmly believes that someone’s financial success is greatly determined by their ability to take ownership of their financial livelihood. “Individuals are not able to take ownership of their finances unless they first comprehend what is shielding them from acquiring financial success. The main culprit is barriers. Barriers will frustrate, hinder, limit, and restrict your financial wealth,” Oliver states in her book, ‘The Master Key to Complete Financial Freedom’.

With her book, Oliver empowers individuals with the “Master Key” to finding financial freedom. Her mission is to create, enlighten, and empower committed effective stewards of finances. Her firm offers impeccable services to those who want to stop living from paycheck to paycheck, want to better

Olivers Financial Planning Services Agency, LLC PO Box 51363 - Piedmont, SC 29673 www.about.me/staceyoliver 864-329-6403 StaceyOliver@ofpslocksmith.com

manage their finances, those who need a practical perspective of their financial status, need to improve their credit standing, desire to multiply their saving potential, and desire to leave a legacy. Services are available in many facets including one on one, group settings, and speaking platforms.

Oliver’s primary objective is to increase her clients financial literacy awareness so they can fully understand how money works. “Money can work hard for you instead of you working hard for it. Once that concept is learned then the vicious cycle and hold of debt can be removed,” she says.

Oliver’s husband, Larry and their son, Uriah ensure she keeps her priorities in right perspective with their encouragement and support.

When not ministering and working with her business, organization, and daily routine, she is enjoying life in South Carolina. h

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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Keisha Garrett of KG Artistry

Joceyln Lynch is a purpose and business cultivator, business owner, entrepreneur, and mother. She wears many hats but is most proud of being a mom and an entrepreneur.

She was born and raised in Richmond, VA, and is a graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University. She is currently completing course work for her Master of Arts at Liberty University. Music, reading and prayer fuels her days, while family and solid friendships help keep her grounded, encouraged and loved.

As the owner of EWS Consulting & Strategies, LLC Consulting Services, Lynch offers courses, eBooks, journals, and apparel. Soon, she will launch Purposed Discussions, a monthly virtual meetup for women who are striving to break barriers in their personal and professional lives.

Lynch knew she had a purpose in her life. To find it, she started to research business and purpose in 2015. “I knew that there was more to life than the space I occupied at my tiny cube at work. I decided after watching many Periscopes, attending webinars, listening and reading about passive income that it was time to push forward,” she says.

“You know that feeling you get when you are nervous and excited all at the same time but you aren’t sure why or for what. That was me in September of that same year. I decided it was time to launch my website, www.heyjocey. com.” She did on January 1, 2016.

It began as a journey into empowerment, restoration, and leadership. She had no clue on how she would combine all of her ideas, but she was determined. “I read my notes, implemented strategies, cried, gave up and kept pushing.

I began blogging because this was the way, right? That’s what all of the online gurus said. It wasn’t comfortable and I began to waiver. I was still doggy paddling around the pool of online entrepreneurship. I still knew purpose existed and someone needed my help. I knew for certain someone needed my help,” she says.

Passion. Purpose. Business

Confirmation came when she was approached by a co-worker who needed help with her business. She remembered Lynch had previously had a non-profit business and she wanted her help with establishing a (for-profit) business. Lynch says it was different but thrilling, and she was finally in her groove.

EWS Consulting & Strategies, LLC was launched in 2016, three months after her grandmother, Edna Willnette Saunders died. EWS is an ode to her. Lynch is often encouraged by her grandparents, who were hard workers and taught her the true meaning of the hustle. “My grandparents were amazing people.

My maternal grandparents really helped my foundation of life and influenced my values and morals. They were both ministers and taught me about faith, compassion, and strength. I was the grandchild you saw hanging with her grandparents, running to church conferences just so I could sit with them. Little did I know that I was being molded with the attributes and values,” she confesses. Her mom and dad gave balance while growing up. “My dad held me accountable while my mom cheered for me. I’m where I am today because of the solid family values they instilled in me,” says Lynch.

For others who are striving to do some of the things Lynch has done, she offers some sound advice. “Get comfortable with being uncomfortable. You’ll know the difference in your comfort levels and if it’s not in alignment with your purpose, it’s time to level up. Start your day with prayer and ask for clarity, understanding, and compassion. Make time for family and don’t fall for the hype you see on the internet. There are good days and scary days but with focus you can push through and achieve much. Also, let go of perfection because you aren’t going to be perfect starting out the gate and you won’t be perfect later. Be open to receive and open to give and know your story, be thankful for your story and accept your story, it’s your story and someone needs to hear it,” she says. h

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Jocelyn Lynch - Lead Consultant - EWS Consulting and Strategies 804.937.9831 - Richmond, VA www.heyjocey.com

Kimberly Wamble Web Design, Photography & Print Marketing

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Go To Girl Tech Solutions Though Kimberly Wamble is a native of Chicago, she has called Memphis, Tennessee home for most of her life. She is a Christian, wife, mother, and the founder of Go to Girl Tech Solutions, a Web Design, Photography and Print Marketing firm.

Wamble unofficially started Go to Girl Tech Solutions in December of 2016. During that time she was planning her mother’s wedding and decided to do the invitations and programs herself. Shortly afterwards, she was asked to do some flyers for her church and soon became the go to girl there. She realized her talent for web design when her husband asked her to create a website to market his business. “In my 15 year career of administration I gained a lot of web based and marketing skills and decided to take on the task of designing his website. I enjoyed it so much, I jumped at the opportunity to design a website that a church in our area needed. The website was a hit and Go to Girl Tech Solutions was officially born the following January,” she says.

She soon began getting requests to do websites, flyers, business cards, and invitations for other businesses and individuals. Kimberly eventually purchased a camera to take pictures for her web designs. Additionally, she would use her camera for family events, including her cousings bridal shower. The pictures she took were a huge hit and led to Wamble taking more pictures for others. “I love helping people tell their story whether it is through web design, photography or in print. When I design websites or create print items, I get to learn about people and their businesses and get a sense of what they want to convey to their audience,” she says. She now combines all of her skills in design, print, and photography.

“As a business owner, I learn so much just by working with other business owners. I love capturing people’s story through photography. I take photos in such a way that the client is brought back to that moment, to that feeling in time. It’s always an honor for someone to let me share in their intimate moments from, weddings, to birthdays to family gatherings. It is gratifying to bring someone’s vision and story to life,” says Wamble.

For the past 15 years she has worked in business administration, with the last three years focusing on higher education. She holds a BS in Management and recently received her certification in Computer Coding from HarvardX, an online extension of Harvard University, through Tech901 in Memphis. She also serves alongside her husband with the youth department at their church. “It is my dream to help those looking to break into the tech industry by passing on the knowledge and resources others have been generous enough to pass on to me,” she says.

While keeping the things that matter most close to her heart (family and her faith) Wamble is positioning herself for the future. “My belief is that I can do anything through Christ and the motivation and prayers from my biological and spiritual family has carried me a long way. My favorite scripture is Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” I am a strong believer in putting my faith to work,” she says. h

901-308-4622

gtgtechsolutions@outlook.com

Facebook @gotogirltech

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Jessica Just Being

By Jessica Jordan Photos by Donald Wilson

Jessica Jordan is a distinguished healthcare professional with more than 10 years of business experience, including seven years focused in healthcare with Fortune 500 companies and large hospital systems. She recently earned a Master of Health Administration (MHA) from Pfeiffer University. The program combined rigorous business and healthcare administration academics with practical experience for mastering the managerial aspects of healthcare.

Jessica also holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Health (BSPH) from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. She is currently a Clinical Coordinator in Charlotte, NC and has ambitions to become a Healthcare Administrator in the future.

Jessica attributes her inspiration to achieve both academic and career successes to her mother LaFondra T. Jordan. She was a major influence of which motivated Jessica to obtain her postgraduate degree. Jessica shares, “My mother was a successful, intelligent woman who provided leadership as an IT Administrator. She and I started our post graduate effort together to obtain Masters Degrees. She was enrolled in the Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) program at North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University. Sadly, in 2014 she had to suspend her studies due to the reoccurrence of breast cancer. However, despite battling with cancer, she always encouraged and motivated me to keep going and finish my graduate program. I will never forget the example she set. For that reason, I dedicate my graduate degree in her memory.” Jessica’s mother passed in March 2016.

Currently, Jessica is also deeply committed to community service and giving back. She demonstrates this commitment through serving in several civic organizations. Her contributions include volunteering with Freedom School Partners and Hands-On Charlotte. She is also a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. When away from work Jessica enjoys spending time with family and exploring international travel. h

“Despite battling with cancer, she always encouraged and motivated me to keep going and to finish my graduate program. I will never forget the example she set. For that reason, I dedicate my graduate degree in her memory.”

Jessica’s mother LaFondra passed in March 2016 after a long and hard fought battle with Breast Cancer.

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Nashville, TN (347) 454-2093 www.yesbuilds.com

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Yolanda Sheilds Greatness begins with compassion and genuineness. Those two words can be used to describe Yolanda Shields of Nashville, Tennessee. Shields has deep roots in entrepreneurship, faith, and family. As the mother of one son, Roland Jr., she has also served as a great role model to him. He is also an entrepreneur and started his first business at the age of 11. Now 26, he is still making waves in his respective business circle.

Shields grew up listening and watching her grandfather run a businesses he started in Alaska during the 1950’s. “I knew as a child that I would start something. I felt that if my grandfather as a black man could start a successful business in the 50’s, surely I could,” she says. So that is exactly what Yolanda did.

Presently, Shields manages YES Builds Coaching and Consulting. She offers high-energy innovative hands-on training seminars and coaching with a dynamic tandem facilitation style, tool-packed to equip you for success.

Headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee, YES Builds is a consulting and training firm with a focus on business strategy, sustainability, executive coaching, and training for small and midsize for-profit and nonprofit companies worldwide.

“I have a passion for business and empowering others to succeed in all that God has for them,” Shields explains. “As an author, speaker, coach and business strategist, I assist individuals in moving their vision forward with clarity, strategy, and activation. It is one thing to have an idea but the realization of it happens when you are able to put a plan together to move it forward.” Her first book, ‘Letters to Our Sons’ was released in 2011. In 2016, she followed this feat with a second book, ‘Entrepreneurship is a Mindset not a Storefront’ in 2016.

She has over 20 years of experience as a business leader as well as international workforce development and social entrepreneurship in the continent of Africa and other third World Countries. She has also traveled extensively throughout the United States, France, and Africa, which has helped her to expand her reach in the area of business. Shields has an MBA (Human Resource Management and Entrepreneurship) and has been appointed by Tennessee Governor, Bill Haslam to the Labor and Workforce Development Board for the State of Tennessee and Vice Chair of the Oversight Committee.

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Throughout her career, Shields has worked with many corporations for-profit and non-profit and currently serves as a mentor at Vanderbilt University’s Wond’ry Innovation Center. She has been privileged to work with various celebrities such as CeCe Winans, Darrell Green, Art Monk, Tony Boselli, and many others. “My work always includes a component that gives back which is a core value for me and has been a part of the work I do in the continent of Africa and the USA. I believe if you are a servant leader and give back you will succeed. I am a passionate leader that believes everyone should have an opportunity to succeed in whatever they are called to do and it is possible with the right training and support,” she says.

She launched Yes Builds after holding many senior level positions and running several businesses, including consulting part-time for well over 15 years and decided it was time to do it full time. “I tell many entrepreneurs it’s okay to start small and build something that can be sustainable,” she says. Entrepreneurship is not easy but it is rewarding if you have a plan and resources to sustain the work during hard times.

She admits there have been many times she wanted to quit and go back to working for someone, but would tell herself “If I can do it for them I can do it for me”. “When those times come you have to get creative and innovative and I have done just that with great collaborations and partnerships. I know those thoughts will continue to come and that’s when I reevaluate what we are doing and why and make changes where they’re needed. You have to keep it fresh and relevant and not get stuck doing things that are not working or bringing in revenue and great value to your clients and customers,” Shield says.

As an entrepreneur, Shield loves the opportunities she has to make an impact on the next generation with her Youth Entrepreneurship Summit.

The summit is hosted each summer, along with her Entrepreneurship Power Hour in middle and high schools. “I believe entrepreneurship is about finding solutions to problems and I love that I am able to play a role in helping my clients find solutions,” she said.

As Shields continues to move forward, her focus remains with faith, family and friends. “Sometimes you don’t see how much you have accomplished until it’s shared by others. My faith in God continues to remind me that I am destined to win as I walk towards all that I was born to accomplish. I am inspired by the many women and men throughout history that have paved the way for me and how hard they pushed without giving up. That is why I don’t give up,” she says. “Never take small beginnings for granted. Every opportunity is leading you to the next open door. Always give 100 percent and remember things happen when you not only talk about your dreams and visions, but when you put action steps and a plan in place. Give more than expected, be a lifelong learner, give back, never stop believing in yourself, work hard, and always have a prayer strategy.” h

Raleigh/Durham - January/February 2018

www.aplusintroductions.com

Keeping Your New Year’s Resolution

By Angela Kelley Photo by Angela Kelley

Remember that New Year’s resolution you made about a year ago to live your best life and to meet someone special this year? How did it work for you? Did you do all those things that you were committed to doing in an effort to improve your love life? If you are like most people you probably abandoned your goal a few weeks into 2017. As we enter into 2018, maybe it’s time to recommit to a new approach. Since you are undoubtedly making these common resolutions anyway, here’s how you may adapt them to your dating life as well.

Get Healthier

Most of us can acknowledge that we don’t always make the best choices when it comes to living a healthy lifestyle. Take this time to make an honest assessment of where you are currently and where you’d like to be in three, six or 12 months. If you know that you need to lose weight, break a bad habit or address some mental health issues that impacts your life, now is the perfect time to get started!

Lose Weight

From a dating standpoint, we all know that physical appearance is important. If we are honest, we must acknowledge that most Singles are not attracted to unhealthy looking people. Substantially overweight people face challenges when looking for love. As unfair and superficial as it may seem, often those with extra pounds are not considered as desirable for many potential mates. If you are actively looking to meet someone special and date more in 2018, it may be worthwhile to make efforts to lose a few pounds, in order to broaden your options. Most gyms are offering specials for the New Year so beginning a new exercise regimen might be easier than you imagine. And since some of your friends are also battling the bulge on some level, you should have plenty of company and support in your efforts.

Budget Better

Unless you are very careful with your finances it is easy to accidentally break the bank with your active social life and dating activities. If you are regularly dating, the money spent on going out a few times a week can add up quickly. In addition to the basic dinner and drinks, the costs of a nice date outfit and shoes, event tickets and miscellaneous extras (toiletries, Uber rides, manicure and hair appointments) can add on unexpected expenses as well. The cost of online dating site subscriptions and dating apps can also add to your monthly expenses. As you consider your financial goals for the New Year, it is smart to set a reasonable amount for your social life and dating activities. If you plan ahead, you might be able to attend free events or find deals on activities you’ve been meaning to try (Groupon and Living Social often have great options), if dating is a priority for you in 2018, don’t allow your finances to hold you back.

Find A Hobby

The New Year is a great time to enhance your skill set. This could include trying something completely new or revisiting an old pastime that you once enjoyed. By embracing a fun or challenging activity, you are likely to meet new potential mates with common interests. In addition, you will be more well rounded and have more interesting conversation topics when you meet someone new. Most Singles are attracted to people with diverse interests and experiences. Your pursuit of something you are passionate about will increase your happiness level and make you that much more irresistible.

Making the most of your life in 2018 should include a thriving dating life!

As you set your new goals for the New Year, keep in mind how those resolutions will impact your social life. Incorporate a few simple changes and commit to sticking with them over the long haul. You will be proud of yourself for all the positive benefits you notice and will notice a significant boost in your 2018 social life. h

Break A Bad Habit

Are you a smoker? Do you swear constantly? Do you tend to run late? All of these behaviors may be hindering your quest to meet someone special.

Most Singles are specific in their deal-breakers. Smoking (along with other substance abuse) is at the top of the list of habits that most Singles prefer to avoid in a new potential mate. Fortunately, with a little intentional effort and a good plan, many of these habits are possible to overcome. In addition to feeling a sense of accomplishment by reaching your goal, you may also feel more confident as you begin dating more in 2018.

In many circles admitting that you are dealing with a mental health issue is taboo. However, the stigma is not as big as it once was and most Singles can respect someone that reaches out for help. If you are battling depression, anxiety or some other condition that can impact your social life, you owe it to yourself (as well as your potential mates) to become a fully healthy person. In the New Year, make your mental health a priority!

Start by talking with a trusted friend, clergy member or life coach to get grounded and get some trusted advice. In addition, there are often solutions to the issues that a qualified therapist, counselor or doctor may be able to offer.

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