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Meloni Staples Shows Great Compassion with In Home Hair Care By Cordelia Jean–Lewis
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o-owner of Waterfalls Spa, Meloni Staples, is also the executive director of In Home Hair Care. Her organization provides salon services such as hair care, natural nail manicures, and pedicures to clients who are immobile or live in as-
sisted living facilities. Many of Meloni’s clients face serious or chronic health conditions, so their services are based on medical appropriateness. “There is a great benefit for my clients to receive this kind of service,” says Meloni. She believes that in home care services provide personalized one-on-one care and the comfort of a familiar environment. Meloni has been providing mobile salon services part-time for 6 years and currently has seven in home patients and up to six hospital clients. The entrepreneur has recently retired from a Richmond-based Fortune 500 company and will commit full-time to In Home Mobile Care. We had the opportunity to accompany Meloni to one of her appointments. We met husband and wife Jack Miller and Helen Eano Miller. Helen is the accomplished author of Veiled Resistance – a compilation of short stories
and poetry about the religious tension she experienced growing up; Jack is a former Wall Street professional in New York City. When their session with Meloni was over, the 78 + married couple of 6 years was groomed with style and precision. You could tell Helen looked forward to seeing her stylist and friend again – Meloni has become a part of their lives. Meloni is currently accepting new clients and hopes to expand in 2015.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Meloni Staples: In Home Hair Care. Phone: (804) 651-7536. Email: MN.Staples@yahoo.com Website: www.inhomehaircare.org
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Bautista Residence, Master Suite, designed by CIRCLE Design Studio. Winner of two ASID/IIDA IDEA Awards in 2012. Photography by: Fernando Wright.
4 Design Tips for a Romantic Evening at Home By Theresa A.C. Dorlini, CID, ASID
As busy moms, wives and just women in general, it’s sometimes hard to detach from the stresses of everyday life and truly focus on quality time with your significant other. Here are 5 great tips to help you create a romantic atmosphere for an intimate evening at home. 1) Lighting!
Never underestimate the power of warm, soft lighting. Try putting key fixtures on a dimmer switch so you can control the levels for a romantic, golden glow.
2) Memories.
Framed photos of a special time you spent together with your significant other can conjure up fond memories and set the tone for the evening. Wedding photos, special trips or simply images of your favorite places are just a few suggestions.
3) Luxe.
Who doesn’t like rich textures and beautiful shimmer? Invest in some plush bedding, linens and accessories. A little glam is good for the soul…and the feeling of being pampered is sure to give you that extra bit of energy after a long day.
4) Warmth.
We all may not be fortunate enough to have a luxurious fireplace in our home, but that shouldn’t stop you from adding a little warmth to your space. Add a few candles in your favorite scent to give your room that extra special touch.
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CEO Staff Selects Their Favorite Drink and Treats for Valentine’s Day
By Cordelia Jean-Lewis
The Publisher’s Pick: Chocolate-Covered Strawberries Who turns down sexy chocolate-covered strawberries? Our very own CEO Publisher, Sharon Oliver, says she never does. Check out this quick and easy recipe and turn your Valentine’s night into a delectable one. INGREDIENTS • 4 ounces semisweet chocolate, milk chocolate, white chocolate or dark chocolate coarsely chopped • 1 pound strawberries (about 10-15), washed and patted dry
DIRECTIONS 1.Line a baking sheet with waxed paper. In a microwavesafe glass bowl, microwave the chocolate, stopping and stirring every 30 seconds until melted and smooth. 2.Holding a strawberry by the stem, dip it in the melted chocolate, letting the excess chocolate drip off. Next, trans-
fer the dipped strawberry to the prepared baking sheet. As you set the strawberry down, slide it ½ inch to the side to prevent the formation of a chocolate “foot.” Repeat with the remaining berries. 3. Refrigerate the strawberries on the baking sheet until the chocolate is firm, at least 30 minutes.
Sarah’s Selection: Heart-Shaped Pancakes
Being gluten free doesn’t mean you have to give up your favorite goodies. CEO’s Creative Project Manager, Sarah Mandoudis, recommends heart-shaped pancakes to start off the special day with your special someone. INGREDIENTS
DIRECTIONS
• • • •
1.Pour mixture onto preheated sprayed griddle to make 4 inch pancakes. Let pancakes cool and cut out heart shapes with the cookie cutter. Enjoy plain or with toppings!
2 eggs 2 tbsp. of oil ½ cup water 2 cups of dry mix (Gluten Free Waffle and Pancake Mix or Almond Meal) • Heart cookie cutter
A.J.’s Appetite: Easy Strawberry Cheesecake CEO’s Manager of Promotions, Aarion Jones (A.J.), says that he and his honey wouldn’t mind a piece of delicious strawberry cheesecake on Valentine’s Day. Try this recipe at home; it only takes 30 minutes to prepare. Make sure to chill this dessert for 4 hours. INGREDIENTS 1 cup of boiling water 1(8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened 1 cup of white sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 (5 ounce) can cold evaporated milk 1 (9 inch) prepared graham cracker crust 10 fresh strawberries
DIRECTIONS 1.Beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract together in a bowl until smooth. 2.Beat evaporated milk in a separate bowl with an electric mixer until whipped and thick. Gradually pour strawberry gelatin mixture into evaporated milk, beating constantly. Fold cream cheese mixture to form cheesecake filling. 3.Set graham cracker crust on a baking sheet or plate to maintain stability. Pour cheesecake filling into crust. Refrigerate until cake is set, at least 3 ½ hours. 4.After cheesecake is set, cover with sliced strawberries and a generous portion of whipped cream.
Photo Director’s Fancy: Brut Champagne J.R. Jones, CEO’s Photo Director, prefers Brut Champagne as an entry to a romantic filled evening. He loves to partake in the driest of bubblies. You can pick up a bottle at your local grocery store or wine specialty store. Hmm, we wonder which lucky lady will get to share a chilled glass of Brut with CEO’s most dashing bachelor on this special occasion.
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“Oh not me!” Dear Mrs. Corrine,
I met this suave, charming, good looking soft-spoken entrepreneur from New York who co-owned a nightclub, modeled, life coached, and was in the process of launching a new cologne line. I was smitten, and he was just the emotional escape that I needed. On our first encounter, we met in Washington, D.C. and I was surprised that a man of his assumed wealth had taken the bus to D.C. (this should have been my first clue of Dearstupid.me). I ignored my stupid alarm and continued to pursue the relationship. So desperate and excited to see him, I would travel on a bus that only cost $20.00 round trip (equate that to the amount of safety that it afforded me). Many times, the bus driver would be so close to a tractor trailer, I could see the label on the soda can that he was drinking. Still, my stupid self sat with my purse and overnight bag in hand. Upon arriving, he would cook up an excuse as to why I had to buy my own bus ticket, pay for all of my food, and pay for the cab to take us to and from (this should have been my second clue of Dearstupid.me.) On occasion, Mr. Wealthy also needed me to wire him money for items such as new clothes (third clue of Dearstupid.me). Somehow in my mind, the thrill of an escape seemed to make up for it all. In the meantime, while I am still using a notepad and pen, I discover on his iPad (courtesy of Dearstupid.me) that he has another girlfriend. When all was revealed, he was out with his other girlfriend while he told me to get some rest before heading back to Richmond. It seems that his other girlfriend was also married with children and she was thinking of leaving her husband for our mutual significant other. In the end, he wasn’t exactly a nightclub owner, model or life coach. Nor did he have a cologne line or was wealthy. When he left me with devastating test results, I needed a LIFE COACH – but I couldn’t even afford one. How could I be so stupid, Mrs. Corrine? 8 ceosofrva.com
Corrine’s Response:
Well baby, you were teetering on stupid--I must say. However, many women have been taken by men, including me, the wise Mrs. Corrine. In the end, you must find humor in everything. For instance, he wasn’t exactly a nightclub owner but he most likely picked up many women there and considered it a job. He wasn’t a model, but you did buy him lots of new clothes and wired him plenty of money like a modeling job. And the only life he coached was the money right up and out of your wallet. I know you definitely needed a life coach after this ordeal, but he didn’t leave you with enough money to hire as much as a volunteer little league coach, never mind a Coach purse. Baby, take it from Mrs. Corrine, always listen to that little voice that God has given you called intuition…Stupid! Tell us your Dear Stupid moment by emailing us at dearstupid@ceosofrva.com. We promise not to use your real name! Submissions chosen for publication may be edited for length and clarity. All submissions become the property of CEO Magazine LLC and may be published, along with the individual, in any and all CEO Magazines and its affiliate companies – branded media are known or hereafter developed.
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GO RED FOR WOMEN: February is American Heart Month By Jennifer Drummond
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eople give tiny red hearts on Valentine’s Day or soft red roses for special occasions. However, when you wear red in February, you can become a part of an actual movement. It is American Heart Month. The American Heart Association (AHA) has launched its annual awareness campaign: Go Red For Women®. Go Red For Women is the AHA’s national movement to prevent heart disease and stroke in women. According to its site, more women than men die every year from heart disease and stroke. The good news is that 80% of all cardiac events can be prevented with lifestyle changes. Connie Hom and Eucharia Jackson, co-chairs for Circle of Red 2015 — supporters of Go Red For Women, know about this all too well. Both have had family members experience heart issues and understand the importance of educating oneself and living healthy. Hom and Jackson encourage you to get involved. There are several ways that one can participate locally in raising awareness during American Heart Month. For example, the Go Red For Women campaign will host a luncheon on February 20, 2015, at the downtown Richmond Marriott Hotel from 10 – 1 pm. The luncheon includes a silent auction called “What’s In Her Bag?” where women donate a customized purse package that reflects their personalities or interests. The proceeds from sold purses will go towards the Go Red For Women campaign. Contact Amanda.Arnold@heart.org for details. Another popular event in February is the Macy’s Go Red Total Makeover Contest, held on February 7, 2015. Again, Richmond was one of a few cities to host this challenge. This is an opportunity to nominate an individual who has made significant changes to her heart health. The winner of this contest will win a $500 Macy’s gift card and be selected as a Go Red for Women Ambassador. Nominations (in 300 words or less) and a photo can be sent to goredtotalmakeover-richmond@heart.org through January 20. The first Friday in February has been designated as National Wear Red Day by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI). This year it will be held on February 6, 2015. While wearing red can be great and meaningful, it is what you do with the remaining months of the year that have an impact on your heart health for a lifetime. Here are a few things to consider provided by the Go Red For Women campaign. Get Your Numbers: Ask your doctor to check your blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose. Educate Your Family: Make healthy food choices for you and your family. Teach your kids the importance of staying active. Visit richmondvagoredluncheon.ahaevents.org for more information about the campaign and local events. Jennifer M. Drummond is an award-winning fitness and nutrition freelance writer. When she is not writing or hanging out with her family, she participates in short distance races and volunteers with professional writing organizations.
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2015 Circle of Red Co-Chairs: Connie Hom & Eucharia “Ukay” Jackson
Pathways to Success Foundation Hosts the Red and White Ball
By Jennifer Drummond
Left to Right: Delegate Kirk Cox, Senator Rosalyn Dance, Lisa Monroe, Colonel Paul Brooks, Mayor Brian Moore
T
hey have served their country and sacrificed for freedoms that many take for granted; they are our U.S. military veterans. Now many of them have fallen into difficult situations and need help. According to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs’ website, there were approximately 49,933 homeless veterans on a single night in January of 2014 in the United States. Pathways to Success Foundation (PTSF), a nonprofit organization located in Chesterfield, Virginia, has stepped in to assist veterans and their families. Led by Community Director, Lisa Monroe, PTSF has provided ser-
vices that include transitional to permanent housing, job training and mental health counseling and support to over 100 veterans and their families. Initially the organization provided services to all families, but it has since shifted to focus on veterans and their families because of a greater need, according to Monroe. In 2012, PTSF accepted its first veteran into the housing program and continues to serve veterans to this day. Support is still needed to help keep the program operating without interruption. The Red and White Ball, co-hosted by the Petersburg Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., will
be held on February 7, 2015, at 7:00 pm. The fundraiser will take place at the Westin Hotel, 6631 West Broad Street, Richmond, Virginia. Proceeds will go towards scholarships used for Pathway’s training center and educational scholarships supported by Kappa Alpha Psi. Tickets can be purchased at www.eventbrite.com Pathways to Success Foundation, whose mission is to provide child and adult support services of housing, education, mentoring, mental health, parental and work readiness, is making a difference. It’s time to make our veterans proud and show our support by learning more and donating at www.pathways2sf.org
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At Home with the Hopkins:
One Couple Shares How to Build a Love That Will Last by Chaya Braxton
How the Hopkins Met They can’t agree on how long they have been together--Tracy thinks it was 1994 or 1995. They can only agree on their wedding date and the fact that they are still together. I am hanging out with the Hopkins: Tracy, her husband veteran actor “D.L. Hopkins a.k.a. d.l.” and their sons Bryson and Miles. The couple welcomed me into their home, so they could share memories from their romance that has spanned almost two decades. Tracy recalls that she was working at the YMCA when someone tipped her off about a job opening at a bank. Tracy being a recent graduate of Hampton University earning a degree in Information Systems, jumped at the opportunity to interview.
“My parents were headed back stateside and called to tell me if I wanted to visit them, now would be the time, says Tracy. d.l. interjects, “I was hurt and confused by her leaving….how are you going to be dating someone and then the person calls you to say, ‘I am quitting my job and I’m moving to Indonesia?’ ” Tracy reminded her husband that she was just going for a visit and that she called him every day. d.l. laughed and said, “She did, but this is why we can’t agree on how long we were going together.” The couple agree, “It doesn’t matter now, we’re together.”
individuality by using each other’s first names in conversation. “Before we were parents, we were Tracy and d.l.” says d.l. Tracy agrees having separate lives is another key to what has made their relationship work. She loves to travel and make jewelry; she also enjoys acting in commercials. d.l. is an accomplished actor and has been featured in several theater productions, TV series and movies including Linc’s (1998), Swedish Auto (2006) and Shadow of the Valley: The Battle of Chickamauga (2010.) The stage has become a part of their family. Even their youngest son Miles was featured in the movie Ithaca last summer. The Hopkins have had tough times too. When The Secrets to Staying other families could not weather the storm of Together financial challenges, Tracy and d.l.’s union re“I have had many serious relationships, but mained fortified. “I know it is cliché, but faith I knew Tracy was for me when I discovered kept us together,” shares d.l. Both of them lost their jobs at different times that we could effectively argue. We could in the same year. They bounced back but had to move in with d.l.’s mom, while preparing to buy their new home. They decided to travel domestically instead of taking their usual international excursions to save money. During the visit, it was amazing to hear the children describe the quality time they experience with their parents. Bryson Hopkins recalls times when both of his parents would sit on the floor with him and build things out of LEGOs or when his dad would take him to ride his bike, and he would rush home to proudly show mom his new scar.
Advice from the Hopkins d.l. explains, “One day, two beautiful women walked through the doors seeking employment at the bank where I worked, luck would have it that it was Tracy. This was the first time that Tracy and d.l. met. The second time would be at a jazz spoken word café that d.l. hosted in the present day restaurant, Comfort, on Broad Street. d.l. spotted Tracy again at a store where she was working in Georgetown; he kept seeing her in random places, and shortly after they started dating — until Tracy left for Indonesia.
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stick to the issue and walk away disagreeing. I wouldn’t be left wounded and she wouldn’t talk about my mama,” joked d.l. The fact that they are still able to disagree without hurting one another is what he thinks has contributed to the longevity of their relationship. Before they had their sons, the Hopkins went somewhere every weekend. Every weekend they were in the air — from Paris to New York to Belize. When the children were smaller, they would wait until the kids were asleep and have conversations where they’d affirm each other’s
As divorce rates continue to climb and couples struggle to stay together, the Hopkins encourage you to choose [your partner] wisely before deciding to settle down. In a relationship, Tracy and d.l. agree that communicating, arguing effectively, and finding things that you both like to do together and as a family are how you will build a love that will last. Look out for Tracy Hopkins’ travel article in our January digital edition. Photo by Jadien Jones
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CEO Around Town
NIGHT LIFE WITH NATALIE
Dominion Garden Fest of Lights At Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens, Richmond through January 12, 2015
A holiday tradition featuring more than halfa-million twinkling lights, handcrafted botanical decorations, model trains, holiday dinners, family activities and more. Visit often to fully experience Dominion Garden Fest of Lights – the region’s ultimate holiday extravaganza! Check website for ticket prices: www.lewisginter.org
Metro Karaoke
MEGA Mentors 4th Annual Fine Art Benefit & Sale The Hippodrome Theater January 16, 2015
All art aficionados are invited to attend an illustrious evening of fine art and entertainment at the famous Hippodrome Theater. Hosted by the MEGA Mentors organization of Chesterfield. Guests will have the opportunity to purchase extraordinary fine art pieces, while benefitting deserving students of Chesterfield County Public School system.
At Metro Grill, Richmond Karaoke at Metro Grill every Thursday night from 10:30pm to 1:30am with Patrick of Nard’s Professional DJ Service. Metro Karaoke is a free event. www.metrogrillrichmond.com
Around Town with Nina B Crazy is not the word! The flavors that the Crazy Greek family brings out of the kitchen are as immersing as their environment. With shimmering sea speckles of cobalt blue, you will immediately fall into the atmosphere of the Greek Islands. Everyone who steps into Crazy Greek on 11500 Busy Street off Midlothian Turnpike feels like family. Unwind after a long day at work with a Greek olive oil infused 16 ceosofrva.com
herb dip and some Pasta Cicero. The red sauce penne cooked with sausage, chicken, green onions and peppers is as delicious at it looks on the plate. The traditional pita bread with olive oil and rosemary completed the dinner experience. Visit Crazy Greek’s newest location at 11500 Busy Street, Chesterfield, VA 23236 or visit their first location at 1903 Staples Mills Road, Richmond, VA 23230.
H
i, I’m Sharon, and of course he is Bobby, and we are affectionately known as The Olivers.
Now, you may expect us to start our introductions with an opening such as “Meet my handsome husband Bobby” and Bobby to say something like “Meet my beautiful wife Sharon.” These introductions would be flattering and may give you the warm and fuzzies, and some of you may say “aww that’s so sweet,” and the truth is that we really do love each other. As you connect with us, you will discover that we are not your typical couple.
Please allow me to give you a little more insight as to who we are and help you become better acquainted with us. During our 16 years of marriage, we have been fortunate to parent three wonderful kids: Lauren (14), RJ (15) and our son Braxton (19) from a previous marriage. For most of our marriage we have started businesses together and really connected over our entrepreneurial spirit. Our latest venture is CEO Magazine, which empowers women to be the “Chief Executive Officer of Your Life.” Bobby and I are very much like any other couple. We are both very humorous, and we find every moment possible to laugh. I really do believe that I should have been a comedian; unfortunately, I’m too nervous to stand on stage and give it a shot. Bobby thinks that he is a poet, and so did I, until I discovered one day purely by accident that his deep insight was merely an iPhone app…I can definitely say that he is resourceful. Both Bobby and I have amazing hearts for helping people and we believe that it’s a God given quality. We have been through
ups and downs in our individual lives as well as our married life, but we have always prevailed together. As you take this journey with us, you will realize that we keep it real and sometimes we are painfully honest. Our journey some days as a married couple should be titled, “The Idiot’s Guide to Marriage… The What Not to Do Manual.” In closing you may be thinking to yourself, “Sharon, why exactly would your marriage be titled “The Idiot’s Guide to Marriage…The What Not to Do Manual?” Well as you can imagine, I’m certainly not proud to have such a title. I would prefer that it read, “The Perfect Couple’s Guide to a Perfect Marriage.” You will find while connecting with us, we are not proud of the mistakes that we have made, but we won’t mislead you. We will allow you a glimpse into our lives in hopes that you will make adjustments that may be necessary in your marriage. So in the upcoming issues and/or our blog, be prepared to laugh, be entertained, experience shock and even embarrassment. But most of all be prepared for us to be UNMASKED, TRANSPARENT and NOT ASHAMED. Prepare yourself to experience the love, forgiveness and rebuilding of an imperfect marriage that was torn apart, but now is RESTORED and HEALED, being used by God to demonstrate His love. Now you have officially met The Olivers. Check us out in our next issue and/or blog. We would love for you to share your testimony on how your relationship was restored.
THE IDIOT’S GUIDE TO MARRIAGE
The What Not to Do Manual
Bobby&Sharon “The Olivers”
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A Staycation for Valentine’s Day When is the perfect time for a couple getaway? Valentine’s Day! Unfortunately, this is the perfect time for everyone else which can mean crowds and inflated prices. by Tracy Hopkins
I
f you are on a budget, like me, consider a “staycation” (a vacation where you stay at home). Not only will you save money, but you can discover hidden gems in your local area. You might be surprised at how much there is to do. Don’t worry if you don’t want to be bothered. You can still tell everyone you went away for the weekend. Here are a couple of ideas for you to consider: • Go to dinner the day before Valentine’s Day. Better prices and no crowds. Who says you have to celebrate Valentine’s Day ON Valentine’s Day? Nobody! • Make a meal from your three favorite restaurants which my husband and I like to do. Have your favorite appetizer in one restaurant, main course in the next and dessert in another—your own personalized feast for two.
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• Create your own Napa Valley tour. There are several fine places for a wine tasting from Carytown to Short Pump and between. • Grab a glass of wine in the cafe before a romantic stroll through the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA). Second Fridays Wine Tasting just happens to be on the 13th of February and it’s free! Bonus! • Spend all day watching movies at your house. No phones, no
interruptions… just you and your loved one, Netflix and your favorite snacks. (Start your diet next week.) • Splurge on a spa package for two and think how relaxed you both will be. Hopefully, you will save money for that big vacation this year and celebrate your love all in one. See you next month when we continue planning that big trip!
Notes from Saige # 1: I Have the Best Valentine
H
i! My name is Saige-Lynn, but please call me Saige. I am 10 years old and I live in Henrico County, VA. I want to tell you who my valentine is this year. My valentine is my grandfather; I call him “Papa.”
My Papa teaches me about science and we watch educational things on my laptop. Our favorite thing to do is listen to jazz; I love Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughn and Dinah Washington. Who says that grownups are boring? These are a lot of details that show you I have an AWESOME Papa.
I chose Papa to be my valentine because he is always there for me. He was the first person to hold me after I was born. He helps take care of me. I have my own room at his house. Papa helps me with my homework and cooks my favorite food like chili and jambalaya. He buys all of my snacks for school, picks me up every Friday to take me to my piano lessons, calls me every day, and comes to every soccer game. When Papa comes to school to have lunch with me during the week, he brings my favorite Wawa club sandwich and sits with me and my friends in the cafeteria. Sometimes he comes across town on the weekends to bring me breakfast. (I think he just does this because he misses me.) Papa buys my vitamins for me and helps me choose gifts for my family for holidays and birthdays.
He loves me very, very much. Here are five things I do to show Papa I appreciate him too. You can use some of these ideas for your valentine.
5 THINGS I DO FOR PAPA: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Make sure I see him every week Draw pictures and create handmade cards Call and check on Papa every day Keep my room clean and organized Behave myself and do well in school
Happy Valentine’s Day!
Love, Saige
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By Aloma
Red Carpet © Ready Life W
hat do women desire? A fine man, money, a nice house, a happy life? No. What we want is to be Red Carpet Ready (R.C.R)! Now some of us might think we know what R.C.R is. Ladies, I’m here to give you the definition. Red Carpet Ready is not just a style, a fad or something that lasts for a season, but it is a way of life. It is always being dressed to be seen even if you aren’t seen. It is having the confidence inside and out to be prepared for this man’s world by putting your best stiletto forward and being CONFIDENT!
When we wake up in the morning, what is the first thing that we think of? Looking fabulous…of course! In the words of Beyoncé: “I woke up like this!” Many women through the years have asked, “How does Aloma do it?” I don’t imitate other people’s style. I have my own. You have to be comfortable with your own flair. It’s an art form to being sexy. First, we start with the shoes, the foundation, to any fabulous creation. The shoes are the air to any outfit that needs to be resuscitated. We have to understand that the clothes don’t make the shoes; the shoes give the clothes life. BE BOLD! 20 ceosofrva.com
Second, we love feeling sexy!!! Ladies, we love exuding sex appeal. Which one of us doesn’t? [Silence] We own the essence of a man. Entice yourself with the perfect matching bra and panty set. Just the word “panty” is sexy alone. The perfect bra is just that…PERFECT! Is color important? Yes, color is very important! Color gives us femininity and sets the precedent for the mood we’re in. So for February 14, don’t forget your bra and panty set. Entice yourself. BE SEXY!
Lastly, giving the day a theme is powerful. We love playing dress up within our alter-egos. I become her and she becomes me. Ladies, let’s begin each day by controlling our destiny—by celebrating with our style. We can be who we want to be by not just making a fashion statement but by setting the standard for the STATEMENT. Personify the personification of your perfection. Own the day…YOU DESERVE IT!!!!! *CLICK* CLICK* CLICK* CLICK* (R.C.R), Aloma
So Close Yet So Far Away
By Sarasusan El Amiri
We are two-dimensional. Not really, but my husband, Hicham El-Amiri, and I live our married life through computer screens and speakers. Immigration is tough and living separately for five years has been a challenge, to say the least. But what a beautiful story we have written so far, and the best is yet to come. Here in Virginia I look at a map and I point, tapping the tip of North Africa, thinking “He’s just right across the water.” Morocco is such an enchanting
place for me. We have to be creative in living our life this way; we find simple ways to kill the endless amount of time. He is my Arabic tutor, helps me raise my girls with his words of wisdom, and we entertain ourselves with things that make us laugh like videos of kittens and pop music from around the world. I get asked, “How do you do it?” A lot of people say I am crazy when they hear my story and they declare they could never do it. They probably don’t know or have forgotten about the power of love; it bears all things. When I get the chance to visit him, I get the first date butterflies all over again. We get to fall in love again, and we cherish each moment because we know that our time has to come to an end when we tear ourselves away from each other in that little airport in Casablanca. Leaving Hicham behind stings my soul, but he is so worth the test of patience. People dream about the kind of love we have. We adore and respect each other, and we are amazing at communicating. I cherish the silent moments when I am with him and never take for granted the sights and
sounds of the moments we have when we don’t need to find words. It could be worse. I could never know what it is like to be adored and honored the way in which I have always dreamed. This is the kind of feeling that you just don’t walk away from, no matter what challenges you face as a couple. I see my God in Hicham. If you ask him, he says he is the lucky one to have me. One evening Hicham told me that he was talking to the moon, and I asked him, “What did you say, my darling?” He replied, “Let me think. How do I say it in English?” “Say it in Arabic first,” I told him. “Anta kamar w ana bashar, habibi wara a albahr, kayfa asilo ilayh ana ha er,” he said. Then he repeated in English, “You are the moon, and I am a man. My love is across the ocean, and I am confused how to get to her.” Some days the tears fall hard, but the sight of his face gets me through the next day. Sometimes I put my earbuds in just so I can feel the vibration of his voice. We encourage each other. We will get through this nightmare of paperwork. Our faith is strong, and with faith, nothing can tear us apart.
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This One Thing I know About Love
by Cynthia Simms
There’s a lot of conversation these days about the next holiday to celebrate. The stores are already decorated with red hearts and candy, and the pressure of finding the perfect gift to give is on the minds of many. Gifts are wonderful, but in the words of one of my favorite songs, “I want to know what love is! I want you to show me!”
There are various types of love: familial love, brotherly love, romantic love, and that all-together-perfect unconditional love. Though I can’t elaborate on all of them now, I know that love is patient and will support in very difficult times. Love is kind. Love should not hurt. Love does not wish ill will on another person.
tangible or extravagant. Love can be as simple as a heartshaped cookie in your child’s lunch bag or a thank you note of kindness presented to a loved one. Love can be making soup for a sick friend or spending time with them. Once you have experienced real love, it is good to pass it on--and this is one thing I know.
I have seen the various types of love demonstrated in my time. And I have been fortunate enough to have received unconditional love from many. So in your process of gift selecting and giving, remember that love is not always
Cynthia Norman-Simms is a 30-year veteran in the medical field and a lead nurse at a long-term care facility. She is a married mother of three daughters and lives in North Chesterfield, Va.
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