Not So Dirty 30: The Roomie Shuffle

It looks like I am losing yet another roommate. She can't take the heat...literally.

"How can you live like this?" she asked. "It's so hot!" she was sprawled out across her air mattress with a straw hat over her face. Once she moves out, this will be my 5th roomie since I graduated college. At 30, aren't I a little long in the tooth for the roommate shuffle?

You would think I would be used to it after my early days at Hell House with A and C. C was a chronic pot smoker that became a good friend. But A ran men in and out of our house like we were running a motel! Then I moved into my current place with B, who would skip out on the lease, owing me nearly $1000.  D would move in a year later only to move back to NYC after not finding a job and now there is E that is bouncing because my apartment is too hot.

I don't want to go through this again-  online ad postings and potential roomie interviews. It is exhausting and stressful, needing a roomie to help pay your rent while crossing your fingers that she won't kill you!

Wish me luck.

Review: Outer Spice

I have high blood pressure which stinks! I have to take meds and avoid as much salt as possible. This is not only difficult, but it also make making well-seasoned food a challenge. That is why I am so happy that I have tried Outer Spice. They specialize in make low and no sodium seasonings.

I usually don't like spice on my food. It upsets my stomach. Outer Spice Spicy is great because it doesn't smother your food on spice. It just gives it a little kick. 

I am a huge fan of the Outer Spice Original seasonings, my favorite being the one with the Himalayan Salt (because I am not supposed to have it). They bring the flavor out in the foot instead of taking it over. 

Each seasoning is $7.99 and can be purchased at OutSpiceIt.com. These seasonings are perfect, even if you are not hypertensive. Try them, and I know you will love them as I do! 

Snapped: Cast of Dope at Cannes

Highly anticipated movie Dope made its International premiere at the Cannes Film Festival.
Photo Credit: Alex B. Huckle Getty Images

Shameik Moore

Pharrell Williams

Zoe Kravitz

Chanel Iman

Jessica Robertson Lip Gloss Collection

As you all know, I am always on the look out for new lip colors to share with you and I am so excited to tell you about these lip glosses from the Jessica Robertson Collection. 

They are available in six colors: Cherry Red, Berry, Nude, Peach Mango, Iced Mocha and Cotton Candy and are $7 a piece. This may seem a little steep, but the glosses come in  large tubes that hold enough gloss to carry you through many applications this summer.

These glosses went on smooth and really made my lips pop! They also smell really good☺ My favorite color is Cherry Red, but all the colors stand out on their own. They are what I like to call "color essentials", or the perfect go-to shades to transcend all of your outfits and occassions for summer. 

To view all the of the Jessica Robertson products and to get more info on the lip gloss, go to DrSunRX.com. 

April Faves

I love spring! The temperature is just right, the world around me seems to be rejuvenating, my hair always looks particularly good for some reason, and I am always eager to get my hands on the latest beauty goodies. Below are my beauty faves for April:

My nail color for the spring is the Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Color Set Sail. It is a perfect baby blue and makes me smile whenever I see it on my nails. If blue is not your color, I still suggest you check out the Insta-Dri collection. Out of all the polishes I have tried that claim to dry quickly, this is one of the few  that is actually telling the truth! It also dries shiny, no top coat needed.

The cool thing about Life Therapy products is that they are characterized by mood. The Hydrating Body Lotion in Escape is my favorite. The lotion is very light in both consistency and aroma, which is great for summer. It also includes one of my favorite moisturizers: Shea butter. Plus, their Mood Inhancing Hand and Body Wash, also in escape, is a must-try as well.

The first product I ever tried from Burt's Bees was their lip balm. It was one of my essentials for a long time. So I was very excited to try a product from their new Renewl Collection. The brand teamed up with nutritionist Kimberly Snyder to launch a 28 day "Face Cleanse". Your skin renews every 28 days, so using the collection, you can see the difference in your skin during this time frame. My favorite product is the Renewal Refining Cleanser with Hibiscus and Apple Rejuvenating Complex. You know I love scents, and it smells like heaven!!! The apple gives it a sweet aroma that fits the season. As you also know, I am typically afraid of facial products because of my sensitive skin but this product exfoliates gently and made my complexion noticeably brighter after one wash!

Rituals makes amazing, spa-grade bath and body products and this spring they are launching the Rituals Sakura Collection. The Japanese celebrate "Sakura", which is the annual blossoming of the Cherry Blossom. The Rituals Sakura Collection includes Cherry Blossom and Organic Rice Milk. I had the opportunity to try the Sakura Scrub, which has this exotic, clean scent that I can not get enough of! I actually caught myself sniffing myself the other day, lol, it's great! It leaves skin smooth and supple and isn't overpowering. It's a must for the season.

Giving Me Life 8: Naja Eco-Friendly Bras and Knickers

Naja.co has an AMAZING array of panties, bras, and swimwear. They are sexy, coming in various prints and colors, and they are also affordable! Now, to make them even cooler, they have come out with an Eco-friendly line...made of recycled plastic bottles! Below are my faves:

Jackie Bra Swinging London, $65

Martina Lo- Rise Blue, $24

Marsha Bikini Swinging London, $22

Poppy Bra Get Happy, $65

Carmen High Waisted Get Happy, $28

 *Sign up for the Naja newsletter and updates and you'll receive 10% off your first bra purchase! Furthermore, if you refer a friend you will receive $15 off your next purchase. 

* See their entire bra and panty collections below here and here.

Manuka Secrets Pt. 1: The Interview

Have you ever heard of Manuka Honey? It's a type of honey, native to New Zealand, that is not only edible but also full of goodies that benefit the body and skin when it comes to anti-aging. It is a major ingredient in anti-aging line Manuka Secrets. I recently spoke with brand Managing Director Russell Cowley about the products (which are available at US Ulta stores)and the benefits of Manuka Honey.

TheBGInTheCity: What sets Manuka Secrets apart from other anti-aging product lines?
Russell Cowley: We have a brand position: owned by nature, proven by science. We know that honey is good for you, but our products include Manuka Honey which has UMF (unique manuka factor) which no other honey has. This is the heart of our products.

TheBGInTheCity: What is Manuka Honey?

Russell Cowley: It's a type of honey in New Zealand that has always been used for skin healing. It has high antioxidants, and hydrates and moisturizes skin. It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, and it helps the skin produce collagen. 

TheBGinthecity: What are the must-have products of the brand? 

Russell Cowley: The day and night creams as well as the serum are getting rave reviews, as well as our natural cleanser.

TheBGInTheCity: I see in your ingredient list that many of your products include cocoa butter and Shea butter which are key ingredients in beauty products for African-Americans. Can Manuka Secrets be used on the skin of women from different racial groups?

Russell Cowley: Yes. We consciously decided to create this brand for all women. All women need accessible and affordable skincare.

Visit ManukaLab.co.nz for more info! 

Not So Dirty 30: The Texting Tools

I think that its time that we create some rules for texting between the sexes. I apologize if there are some already in circulation, but they definitely haven't made their way to the men I talk to. Here are a few rules to nibble on, inspired by what I have dealt with these past two weeks:
1. When a girl texts you a standard wyd text, that is not license for you to send her a topless photo of you in pajama pants.😞
2. If you haven't talked to a girl in OVER A YEAR, there is no need to text her ever again, even if your girlfriend has dumped you and there is no one else to text.
3. Texting a girl that you want to go on a date with her....to her own house...at midnight is a clear sign that you are not seriously  interested. Do not text her a confused emoticon when she does not reply.
4. And with that in mind, use your words. How are 7 different yellow faces in a row supposed to communicate to me that you had a bad day at work and will hit me back after watching Boodocks on Netflix?

Again, these are just a few rules to consider.

Review: The Just Be Spring Collection 2015 @Family Dollar

Summer is on the way, and if you are anything like me, you are looking to update your wardrobe without breaking the bank. Thanks to the Just Be Family Dollar Spring 2015 Collection, this is possible! 

When you think of Family Dollar, you probably don't think of fashion, but this season, you definitely should. The new Just Be Spring Collection 2015 has fabulous, inexpensive separates that are perfect for the season. And the pieces are on trend, including ruffles, tribal prints, and stripes! And when I say inexpensive, I mean great separates under $15! 

And the collection doesn't just stop at clothing. They also have sandals and accessories, as well as pieces in plus sizes! See my favorites below from the collection:

Coral Strapless, DoubLe Gauze, Tulip Hem Dress $12.50, Plus Size, $15

Colorblock Floral Infinity Scarf, $4

Cork Wedge Thong Sandal, $8

Crochet Lace Peasant Top, $10, Plus Size, $12.50

Moroccan Stripe Print Knit Maxi Skirt, $10, Plus Size, $12

Cork Wedge Sandal, $8

Brush Stroke Geometric Print Woven Dress, $12.50, Plus Size, $15

Animal Print Metallic Thong Sandal, $6

Placed Screen Print Knit Maxi Dress, $12.50, Plus Size, $15

Frosted Metal Leaves Necklace and Earrings Set, $3

Microsuede, Back Zip Thong Sandal with Stud Details, $8

Review: Balm Chicky Balm Balm

Balm Chicky Balm Balm is gaining momentum across the map. Many fans became familiar with them from their appearance on the hit show Shark Tank. They have recently moved into Target stores, and their plentiful tubes even come with a Friend End for sharing. 

Because of my dry lips, I go through lip balms consistently! I love this product because its containers hold 3x more than the average balm tube. It's also smooth, and works well with my lip gloss. It doesn't have a scent or flavor, but I dont mind. 

The balms come in five flavors and go for $7 a pop. I know that this may seem a little steep, but it is well worth it.

Learn more at BalmChicky.com.

Brytni Talks Beauty

If actress Brytni Sarpy looks familiar to you, it may be from her previous work on Disney. Today, this natural beauty is the newest star on super soap General Hospital. She was able to take time off the set to speak with me about her new character and cosmetic tips.

TheBGInTheCity: Tell me about your new role as Valerie.
Brytni: Valerie is the newest addition to the legendary Spencer family. She is definitely a Spencer through and through; tough and passionate.

TheBGInTheCity: What is your biggest beauty secret?
Brytni: Drinking water. I don't particularly like water, but when I'm on my water game, my skin looks better and my hair grows.

TheBGInTheCity: What are some of your favorite beauty products?

Brytni: I use the Enzo Milano Wand to reinforce my curls. I also use Dior mascara and Oribe shampoo and conditioner. 

TheBGInTheCity: What is your favorite feature? 

Brytni: My eyes. I get a lot of compliments on them and they are fun to play around with. I love doing a smokey eye. Adjusting my eye makeup colors makes my eye color change. 

TheBGInTheCity: How can we follow you on social media? 

Brytni: I am @_brytni on Twitter and @brytni on IG. 

DIY Try: Edible Moisture Mask

Keeping your skin moisturized is essential, and, contrary to popular belief, can be done without spending bundles on creams and gels. Thanks to anti-aging experts Michele Periquet and Firouze Zeroual, we have a recipe for the perfect summer moisture that can also make a tasty treat.

EDIBLE MOISTURE MASK

What you need:
1 tablespoon milled chia
1 tablespoon raw honey
1/2 avocado, pitted and mashed

Instructions
1. In a small bowl, mix ingredients together into a paste.
2. Apply to freshly cleansed skin and let it sit for 15-30 minutes.
3. Remove gently with warm water and a washcloth.

Note: You can find milled chia at a health food store or you can grind chia seeds at home using a food processor or a coffee mill until you get a coarse flour-like texture.

Event Recap: Block Party LA

Saturday's 2nd Annual Block Party LA was a community-centered festival featuring some of today's hottest indie artists. Headlined by Talib Kweli, a portion of the event's proceeds were donated to the Children's Defense Fund scholarship program "Beat the Odds”. According to Block Party LA founder Ashley Glaspie, it also served as a vessel to pump positivity into the community. BG Contributor Mary Hill was on the scene asking artists how they felt their work was, much like Block Party LA, helping to bring the community together through music.

Q: How does your music fit into  bringing together the community through music?

A: Ramaj Eroc:
"My music is influential, for all cultures and races."

A: Dean Risko:
"My music is really relatable which is the same reason Drake blew up. It’s genuine and honest. It ties in the community because it’s honest, like the community. Less commercial, more real."

A: The League
"Our underling message is for the community. It’s about being yourself and showing love to everybody. It’s also based on how we live and how we were built."

*Mary Hill is a BG Contributor for LA*

Not So Dirty 30: Manless in Atlanta

It was not until I had to attend a ball recently that I realized the harsh truth: I know no men!

And I am not talking about dream boats to fall in love with and marry. I am talking about single, clean men that have good enough manners to escort me to an event without making me look stupid!

You should have seen me hours before the event, surfing my phone's contact list like a loser. All my guy friends are either married, out of state, involved, or impossible to understand outside of the context of a text. Unfortunately, emoticons and mispelled slang are not acceptable ways to converse at a formal event.

At this point, I don't know if I want a boyfriend or husband or whatever. But a lady would like a presentable male to escort her to these pesky social events. I will keep you posted on my progress.

Recipe: Low Fat Tiramisu

I love sweets! It's true. And one thing I am learning to love as much as sweets is baking. I am so excited about this yummy (and low fat) recipe for Tiramisu Pastry Pups from Kim Lassiter, Founder of Symply Pure and Decadent Bakery.

You Need:

2 pkg.  (3 oz. each) ladyfingers, split, divided

2 Tbsp.  Coffee liqueur 

1 Tbsp.  organic sugar

1 cup  boiling water

2 pkg.  (8 oz. each) Neufchatel Cheese, softened

1/2 Organic cup  sugar

1/2 Tbsp.  coffee liqueur or fresh organic brewed coffee

2 cups  LITE Whipping cream

1 tsp.  unsweetened natural cocoa powder

1/2 cup of 10x sugar

1 package of powder gelatin or three sheets of gelatin soaked in cold water

Directions:

ARRANGE 1 pkg. of the ladyfingers on bottom of 13x9-inch dish. Dissolve instant coffee and 1 Tbsp. organic sugar.  Mix the sugar and 1/2 cup of fresh brewed coffee in a bowl. Brush 1/2 cup of the coffee mixture over ladyfingers in a dish.

BEAT Neufchatel Cheese with electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and add 1 package powder or three sheets of gelatin. Add 2 tsp of the coffee liqueur 1/2 cup organic sugar and liqueur, mixing until blended. Gently stir in whipped topping. 

Whipped Topping 2 cups of LITE whipping cream in a mixer whip on high speed until it has a medium peak add 1/2 cup 10x

SPREAD Neufchatel Cheese filling into a silicone mold. Refrigerate for two hrs. After two hrs pop out of mold and top with remaining ladyfin ladyfingers; brush with remaining coffee. Top with whipped cream. Dust with cocoa powder and serve.

Tips 
(optional) Drizzle chocolate sauce or chocolate syrup on plate with fresh berries for decor

New: INGLOT O2M Nail Enamel

INGLOT recently released their 02M nail enamels. Their new formula is a mixture of air and water permeable nail enamel – created to promote nail health.

Snapped: Mad Max: Fury Roaf Red Carpet

Last week, stars of the upcoming movie Mad Max: Fury Road strutted the red carpet of the movie's LA premiere at the TCL Chinese theater.

DIY Try: Skyy Hadley's Refreshing Cucumber Lemon Foot Scrub

Sexy feet are a must for the summer, which is why celeb manicurist Skyy Hadley is sharing her DIY Refreshing Cucumber Lemon Foot Scrub recipe with us!

o   Start with 2 whole cucumbers (one per foot), 2 tablespoons of lemon juice and 2 tablespoons of olive oil; mix in a blender until pureed. 

o   Pour the mixture into a bowl and heat it up to warm temperature. 

o   Place half of the mixture in a large Ziploc baggie and half in a second baggie. 

o   Slide feet right into each baggie, rubbing cucumber mask until each foot is fully soaked. 

o   Leave on for 5-10 minutes then rinse with warm water. 

o   The cucumber is extra refreshing and reviving for tired toes, the lemon helps exfoliate and the olive oil deeply moisturizes for super softness.

Introducing Prajje 1983

Haitian born Boston bred designer Prajje Jr. Jean creates feminine, classic looks for his line Prajje1983. He has dressed celebs such as Wyclef Jean, and his lattest creations include fun yellow slacks (that are perfect for summer) and a classic, flowing white dress, also great for the season.

For more info, visit http://www.prajje1983.com/ as well as his gofundme page at http://www.gofundme.com/Prajje-1983-Haiti.

Get The Look: Olivia Munn's MET Ball Manicure

Everyone was hypnotized by the gowns of this year's MET Ball but for me, the manicures for the night were also head turners. Actress Olivia Munn had one-of-a-kind nails created by celebrity manicure artist and Sally Hansen Nail Ambassador, Tracylee.
To create the look seen at the Met Ball, Tracylee used Sally Hansen’s award winning Complete Salon Manicure in Red My Lips with a fade to black using Hard As Nails Xtreme Wear in Black Out. She completed the look with Big Matte Top Coat.