Foodie Tuesday with Smarty Marty - Mandarin Orange Chicken

 This week's Foodie Tuesday Delight from Smarty Marty is a Mandarin Orange Chicken

a different twist on your chicken breast. Let's get started. 1st things first lets gather up the necessary ingredients. 

What you need is the following: 
2 teaspoons dark sesame oil
4 (4-ounce) skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup chopped green onions
1 teaspoon bottled minced garlic
1/2 cup fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
2 teaspoons cornstarch

Directions: 

Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper. Add chicken to pan; cook 4 minutes on each side or until browned.
While chicken cooks, drain oranges in a colander over a bowl, reserving 2 tablespoons liquid. Add oranges, 2 tablespoons liquid, onions, jalapeño, and garlic to pan. Reduce heat; simmer 2 minutes. Combine broth, soy sauce, and cornstarch; add to pan. Bring to a boil; cook 1 minute or until slightly thickened.
 

Food Styled and Prepared By Smarty Marty 

Recipe By - Allrecipes.com 

Atlanta Based Photography Elisha Akram (Kustom Kreation Photography) weekly food/recipe contributor Smarty Marty(My Older Sister) combines her love for cooking, photography and plating meals each and every Tuesday for this Segment entitled Foodie Tuesday. Join us each week for a variety of dishes prepared by Smarty Marty

Foodie Tuesday by Smarty Marty- Homemade Potato Salad!

So Smarty Marty is getting you all prepared for your 4th of July cook out! So along with all the favorite BBQ delights here is a recipe for one of the sides that can make a way to the table come tomorrow. So let's get started by father up the necessary ingredients needed:  

• 5 potatoes
• 3 eggs
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup sweet pickle relish
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt

• 1/4 teaspoon celery salt
• 1 tablespoon prepared mustard
• ground black pepper to taste

Direction:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add potatoes and cook until tender but still firm, about 15 minutes. Drain, cool, peel and chop.
• Place eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring water to a boil; cover, remove from heat, and let eggs stand in hot water for 10 to 12 minutes. Remove from hot water, cool, peel and chop.
• In a large bowl, combine the potatoes, eggs, celery, onion, relish, garlic salt, celery salt, mustard, pepper and mayonnaise. Mix together well and refrigerate unti

Dinner is Served with some other delicious Delights ! 

Food Styled and Prepared By Smarty Marty 

Recipe By - Allrecipes.com 

Atlanta Based Photography Elisha Akram (Kustom Kreation Photography) weekly food/recipe contributor Smarty Marty(My Older Sister) combines her love for cooking, photography and plating meals each and every Tuesday for this Segment entitled Foodie Tuesday. Join us each week for a variety of dishes prepared by Smarty Marty

"My Mental Breakdown"

Last Friday around 1:13 in the afternoon I experienced a mental breakdown. Is that okay to share or talk about these days??  If not, this is a break from all regularly scheduled programs that are being broadcasted on the picture perfect social media channel.  I interrupt this program with a dose of reality. 

After a week full of 9 – 10 hour days covering for a colleague’s work load on top of my own - my brain could take no more.  I had received three calls from frustrated suppliers and managers that morning.  During the last call I could feel my voice starting to crack as I tried to listen to this manager’s frustration.  Nothing to do with me, just her frustration with the process.  I hit my red ‘end call’ button on my phone and started to shake, then the tears started to flow.   Luckily, I was working from home. The dam that was holding all the stress and anxiety of trying to handle too many things together finally broke.  I mean I was seriously sobbing uncontrollably the kind of cry that comes from a deep place within.  My laptop continued to chime with incoming emails, reminders, skype messages pinging me everyone wanting something. All I could do was cry -  I could not take in one more thing. 

Thankfully my husband returned home early and found me.  He didn’t know what was wrong and I could barely get any words out.  He told me that I needed to message my manager to tell him I needed a break as I was in full meltdown. He had watched me come home from work that week each night like a zombie.  How do you message your manager telling him that you are having a mental meltdown?   It’s not like in a sports game where you can yell to the referee that you need a timeout – this is life.  You can’t use the words “mental breakdown” in a skype or email message at work.  Well this girl had to break that ‘rule’ on a beautiful Friday afternoon as I simply could not pull myself together.

My manager responded after a few seconds and asked why I did not ask for help earlier in the week and wondered how things got to that point.  I told him that I thought I was handling things okay, but evidently, I wasn’t.  More embarrassment as I continued to try to explain how I got to this point - where tears were spilling onto my hands and splashing my laptop as I typed. He made me step away from work for a few hours to regroup. 

I was in shock that I got to the point of breaking down. As a mom, I’m used to mentally juggling a million different things, throw work and life on top of that and this is just another day in my world.  Nope not that day – my brain and spirit said otherwise.  The whistle had been blown I was officially down and in time out.  I feel slightly embarrassed and vulnerable post meltdown at work especially with my managers.  I guess my meltdown did result in a conversation led by my managers the following week making sure that the team knew that although things are super busy we need to know that we can ask for help.  There is even discussion of a monthly mental health day.  I guess my tears are making a difference, lol!

It has me thinking, why is this the norm? Trying to keep everything buttoned up, perfect and okay.  We give our best selves to our work all day and come home with nothing to give but irritability and exhaustion to the people that matter the most.  Our society rewards and encourages this work horse, lean in, slaying it mentally. I especially do not think this is good for women and moms. We must take more things off our plate, speak up and ask for help.  The norm should not be to run a million miles an hour and juggling a billion things.  If you do have a lot going on you need to have more downtime and self-care.  It needs to be okay to ask for a time out at work.  Where do we find that courage to say we are not okay and make this a priority?  Our western culture rewards the hustle and places more value on material possessions, success and power while eastern cultures embrace going with the natural flow of life, shorter work days, time with family, slowing down and taking care of yourself spiritually, mentally and physically.  

Last week’s meltdown was a scary wakeup call that I was NOT expecting. I feel differently and want to change my approach to my mental health.  I also hope to create social change in our culture and how we work especially as women in a society that was created by men with traditional 9-6 values.  Our bodies were not meant to slay it Monday - Friday for 8-10 hrs.  Especially as women we go through monthly cycles that sometime require us to rest more or need more downtime.  We are taught as woman to ignore our bodies and to be like men, umm yeah no we are different we birth babies for crying out loud! Our work systems were not designed with this in mind.   It is time for more conversations around this topic and change.  I’ll start here with sharing my meltdown moment instead of the highlight reels of my life that we all choose to share daily. 

I hope my emergency broadcast will help someone.  If you are in a meltdown moment, find someone to talk to, if you have EAP (Employee Assistance Program) at work use it. If you are in extreme crisis and no one to talk to call 1-800-273-8255 or even message me if needed.  I’m here to help and support!

Feel free to leave a comment about any recent meltdowns that you have experienced or practices that you have in place to protect your mental health and wellness!

Cheers to breakdowns that lead to getting the help that we need!

By Kara Norman- Empower Her, Inc.

Kara Norman Atlanta Based Women Empowerment Thought Leader and bi-weekly blog contributor.

Kara Norman has been working with Women and Girls for a number of years. Her nonprofit organization Empower Her Inc , have led to many opportunities in the space of making social changes as it deals with women and their many roles in society. You can learn more about Kara Norman and Empower Her Inc. at http://www.empowerherinc.com/

Foodie Tuesday with Smarty Marty- Macaroni Salad

This week recipe idea is a classic with a twist... Macaroni Please, but not just any macaroni , we are adding a few vegetables to make this what they call a Macaroni Salad....  As always 1st things 1st we need to gather up the following ingredients. 

Ingredient Listing: 

• 4 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
• 1 cup mayonnaise

  1/4 cup distilled white vinegar

• 2/3 cup white sugar
• 2 1/2 tablespoons prepared yellow mustard
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt

• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

  1 large onion, chopped

• 2 stalks celery, chopped

• 1 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped
• 1/4 cup grated carrot (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chopped pimento peppers (optional)

The Fresh Ingredients 

All chopped & diced ready for the next step 

Ready to serve 

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni, and cook until tender, about 8 minutes. Rinse under cold water and drain.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, mustard, salt and pepper. Stir in the onion, celery, green pepper, carrot, pimentos and macaroni. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving, but preferably overnight.

Food Styled and Prepared By Smarty Marty 

Recipe By - Allrecipes.com 

Atlanta Based Photography Elisha Akram (Kustom Kreation Photography) weekly food/recipe contributor Smarty Marty(My Older Sister) combines her love for cooking, photography and plating meals each and every Tuesday for this Segment entitled Foodie Tuesday. Join us each week for a variety of dishes prepared by Smarty Marty

Black Love visits Atlanta!

By invitation only well not really if you're familiar with local events you could've signed up to attend this evening event Black Love. My friend Kara Norman invited me to a night out to one of her favorite shows on TV for an open discussion into challenges that come up in a marriage. We enjoyed an evening of what would be considered a live broadcast of the show with special celebrity guest Grant Hill and Tamia. It was an evening of conversation dealing with marriages from different perspectives and couples from all ranges from newlyweds two couples with plenty of skin in the game dealing with the real issues in overcoming to stay together. During our outing we had lots of fun at the photo booth provided by Far Out Galaxy! They also gave us lots of fun gifts from and Kara and I got a chance to grab a quick picture with the celebrity panelist!!! Exciting night I was all smiles and enjoyed every minute of my time.

My good buddy Kara Norman and I grabbed a picture on the step and repeat banner 

Having a few fun moments at the photo booth!!! 

Kara joins in on the fun at the booth! 

We grabbed a quick photo with Grant Hill & Tamia as they were leaving out the event 

Elisha Akram (Kustom Kreation Photography) is an Atlanta Based Photographer Specialing in Social Events, Weddings, Families  High School Seniors & Business Headshots!

We also custom design party supplies for life's celebrated moments! Live Love Create Go Kustom! 

Kara Norman Atlanta Based Women Empowerment Thought Leader and bi-weekly blog contributor.

Kara Norman has been working with Women and Girls for a number of years. Her nonprofit organization Empower Her Inc , have led to many opportunities in the space of making social changes as it deals with women and their many roles in society. You can learn more about Kara Norman and Empower Her Inc. at http://www.empowerherinc.com/

Foodie Tuesday with Smarty Marty -Vegetable & Chicken Lasagna

Noodles Chicken and Vegetables... a delicious combination. This week Smarty Marty is cooking up Lasagna utilizing chicken tenderloins and fresh vegetables. To get started with this dish we need to gather up the following ingredients. 

Ingredients

• Nonstick cooking spray
• 2tablespoons olive oil
• 1 1/2cups very thin bite-size carrot strips
• 1cup chopped onion (1 large)
• 4cloves garlic, minced
• 14 - 16ounces frozen broccoli florets, thawed
• 12ounces shredded cooked chicken breast
• 3cups fat-free milk
• 9tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 1/2cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
• 1 1/2teaspoons salt
• 1/2teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4cup snipped fresh basil
• 115 ounce carton fat-free ricotta cheese
• 1cup shredded low-fat mozzarella cheese (4 ounces)
• 12no-boil lasagna noodles (about 8 ounces)
• 1cup whole wheat panko (Japanese-style bread crumbs)
• 1/4cup grated Parmesan cheese (1 ounce)

Cooking up the tenderloins on the stove top 

Chopping up the fresh vegetables and the cooked chicken

Cooking up the fresh ingredients on stove top.

 

Directions

1. Lightly coat a 3-quart rectangular baking dish with cooking spray. Set aside.
2. In a large nonstick skillet heat 1 tablespoon of the oil over medium heat, swirling to coat the bottom of the skillet. Add carrots, onion, and garlic; cook about 6 minutes or until softened, stirring frequently. Remove from heat. Stir in broccoli and chicken; set aside.
3. For sauce, in a large saucepan whisk together milk and flour. Add broth, salt, and pepper, whisking until smooth. Bring to boiling over medium-high heat, whisking constantly. Boil about 1 minute or until slightly thickened, whisking constantly. Remove from heat. Stir in basil. Set aside.
4. In a small bowl stir together ricotta cheese and mozzarella cheese.
5. Spread 1 cup of the sauce in the prepared baking dish. Arrange three of the lasagna noodles crosswise over the sauce in baking dish. Spoon another 1 cup of the sauce over the noodles, spreading evenly. Dot with one-third of the ricotta mixture, then one-third of the chicken mixture. Repeat layers twice. Top with the remaining three lasagna noodles. Spread the remaining sauce over the top. Cover baking dish with foil. Cover and chill for at least 8 hours or up to 24 hours.
6. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Bake, covered, for 1-1/2 hours. Remove foil. Bake for 30 minutes more.
7. Meanwhile, in a small bowl stir together panko and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle panko mixture over lasagna. Drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Bake, uncovered, about 5 minutes more or until the top is lightly browned. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Preparing to bake in the oven 

Food Styled and Prepared By Smarty Marty 

Recipe By - www.bhg.com

Atlanta Based Photography Elisha Akram (Kustom Kreation Photography) weekly food/recipe contributor Smarty Marty(My Older Sister) combines her love for cooking, photography and plating meals each and every Tuesday for this Segment entitled Foodie Tuesday. Join us each week for a variety of dishes prepared by Smarty Marty

“Leaping, Falling, Tail Tucking & Getting Back on the Horse!”

Six years ago, I walked away from my six-figure job to pursue my dreams to empower women and girls.  I found this picture and I blogged about that moment when I walked into my boss’s office and boldly said “I quit!”. You can check out my original blog post here: http://empowerherinc.blogspot.com/2012/08/ps-i-quit-step-closer-to-my-dream.html.  That person that took that leap seems so foreign to me now. I’m in tears just thinking about that moment and even sharing my thoughts in this week’s blog post.

I quit my job to have more flexibility for my family and to walk in my passion and gifts. I took on some contract work to supplement my income and set off to change the world.  I had no plan just - a 501 (C) 3 and a dream. My oldest daughter was entering high school and I knew that I wanted to be home when more.  I was very successful at work but my job was very demanding and offered little flexibility. Prior to my quitting I had helped to run a community based organization for girls for 5years.  I created great programs and events for girls in our community and was ready to branch out to help women and create more events that would spark social change on a full-time-basis.  

I launched my organization and hosted several events.  It started out great - then life happened.  A close family member got sick and passed away, we experienced unexpected financial issues and many other challenges.  A year later I tucked my tail between my legs and returned to my 9-5, so ashamed that I was back where I started.  I was back to being overworked, stressed and embarrassed that my plan did not work.  I tried to keep things going with my dreams on the side but I got busy being a mom and wife.  Empower Her, Inc. had a “Closed” sign on its virtual door.  I have tons of dust covered boxes in my attic right now full of my Empower Her, Inc dreams, visions, etc.

Fast forward to June 12th, 2018.  My friend sent me a screenshot of plans I made in 2013 for a leadership camp for girls. She read me the details of my proposal for this program and the requirements that I was requesting for a space to host the camp.  I could not believe that it had been 5 years. The details were so specific.  At the time I knew that I would get that space, register tons of girls and provide a camp that would also help my girls! The camp was a big part of my plans but it never got off the ground due to not finding a space and the resources.  I had forgotten about that dream and about my plans.  It’s funny how God brings things to your attention at the right time.  Especially as my 14-year-old is settling into her summer routine and is too old for camps but needs some type of enrichment.

The same thoughts of wanting to put together amazing programs for girls and women has crept back into my spirit as well as fear. The thought of putting something together again and relaunching has me shaking in my boots. Just to even write again on this blog started out as a struggle. I enjoy blogging as a guest on this blog because it is under the safe covering of someone else’s dream. I have my own blog that I started over six years ago that I have not touched instead I am sharing my thoughts here where it is safe. It’s like I have “Leaping for Your Dreams PTSD”, lol. 

God has been telling me over the last few months that it is time to share my journey and gifts with the world again. I want to stay hidden and quiet but He is pushing me to move forward. So,I am leaning into Him more, praying, planning and strategizing to launch some new programs/events in the fall.  I am at the end of this week’s Power Hour Blog post and I realize I did not have much to share - just my journey, where I am today and where I want to be.  I guess that is okay too.  I would ask for prayers and support as I get the strength to get back on the horse again.  For those of you that have scrapped up knees from your recent leaps I am here to provide band aids, to be scared with you and to be your biggest cheerleader when you are ready to leap again. 

Feel free to share your recent leaps, falls or tail tucked between your legs moments in the comments section.

Cheers to leaping, falling and getting back up again!

By Kara Norman- Empower Her, Inc.

Kara Norman Atlanta Based Women Empowerment Thought Leader and bi-weekly blog contributor.

Kara Norman has been working with Women and Girls for a number of years. Her nonprofit organization Empower Her Inc , have led to many opportunities in the space of making social changes as it deals with women and their many roles in society. You can learn more about Kara Norman and Empower Her Inc. at http://www.empowerherinc.com/

Foodie Tuesday with Smarty Marty- Shrimp Fried Rice

Smarty Marty foodie Tuesday recipe idea this week is a take out favorite... She's cooking up some shrimp fried rice. 1st and foremost we must gather up the ingredients needed for the dish. 

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice
• 3 cups water
• 4 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 cup fresh bean sprouts
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1 1/2 cups cooked medium shrimp, peeled and deveined without tail
• 1/4 cup chopped green onion
• 2 eggs, beaten

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 4 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil

1. In a saucepan bring water to a boil. Add rice and stir. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 20 minutes. Set aside and allow rice to cool.
2. Heat a large skillet or wok for 2 minutes. When the skillet or wok is hot, pour in vegetable oil, bean sprouts and onions. Mix well and cook for 3 minutes.
3. Mix in cooled rice and shrimp and cook for another 3 minutes. Stirring constantly.
4. Mix in green onions, eggs, salt, pepper, soy sauce and sesame oil. Cook for another 4 minutes, stirring continuously, until eggs are cooked and everything is blended evenly.

Food Styled and Prepared By Smarty Marty 

Recipe By - Allrecipes.com 

Atlanta Based Photography Elisha Akram (Kustom Kreation Photography) weekly food/recipe contributor Smarty Marty(My Older Sister) combines her love for cooking, photography and plating meals each and every Tuesday for this Segment entitled Foodie Tuesday. Join us each week for a variety of dishes prepared by Smarty Marty

40th Birthday Celebration in the Garden !

You've heard of a vegatable garden, a flower garden and even a secret garden. So with all that in mind earlier this year we were contacted by Ronda, she was putting together her birthday celebration and she decided to have an intimate dinner with friends in her private home. The theme of the dinner party was Garden. 

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Friends How many of us have them? Well for Ronda, she has quite a few that joined her for a private chef table experience. It was a milestone birthday and she decided to celebrate with her closest friends over some delicious dinner paired up with the best-tasting wine for the entree. We were so happy to be apart of the beautiful celebration and we totally appreciate being able to take a delicious plate home. 
 

A very welcoming table scape with customize menus fresh flowers and paired dinner wines for the meal. 

Appetizers and drinks were served as the guest awaited the time to be seated for dinner.

Check out the private Chef Aleem in action to learn more about the chef and his services click  here! 

Great night with close friends over delicious dinner and wine. 

your choice of drinks and champayne for birthday toast 

Happy Birthday Dear Ronda! This smile says it all as they closed out the night with the famous birthday song by friends. 

Elisha Akram (Kustom Kreation Photography) is an Atlanta Based Photographer Specialing in Social Events, Weddings, Families  High School Seniors & Business Headshots!

We also custom design party supplies for life's celebrated moments! Live Love Create Go Kustom! 

A Moment with Mother!

A moment with mother!

A flash back to the  Saturday before Mother's Day we travel approximately 60 miles to Serenbe Farms to capture a beautiful luncheon with daughters and their mothers. This event really had me feeling warm and fuzzy on the inside. Seeing the love between mothers and daughters. One delightful part of the luncheon was a video presentation that featured the daughters giving special Mother's Day messages. For me it warms my heart to be able to capture these timeless images that will be cherished for generations to come. 

The beautiful setup for all the mothers and daughters 

The ladies were able to mix and mingle while we awaited the program to start.

Captured Moments while they enjoyed refreshing drinks and home style muffins 

Ladies enjoyed a beautiful video presentation of the daughters giving Mother's Day messages to their mothers. After the presentation they were gifted with beautiful charmed necklaces. 

A game was played of how much you know about your mother which brought lots of laughs 

Mother and daughter images were captured to cherish this day. 

Elisha Akram (Kustom Kreation Photography) is an Atlanta Based Photographer Specialing in Social Events, Weddings, Families  High School Seniors & Business Headshots!

We also custom design party supplies for life's celebrated moments! Live Love Create Go Kustom! 

40 Years of Love... A Beautiful love Story ...

Way Back in 2016 (as though that was a lifetime ago :) we had the true pleasure to capture this beautiful love story of Mr. & Mrs. Palmer. 

So here goes the story... 

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A true Blessing indeed to be ab le to capture the lives of many everyday people who are doing wonderful things that can teach you lessons to carry on in your life. Today was a day I was blessed to capture a beautiful 40 year old love story and the off springs of that union 40 years ago . This date was filled with beautiful stories of the couple a skit of how they came to be and the beautiful offsprings from this union...

This beautiful event was created by Rebecca Palmer the eldest daughter of the Palmers - Infinite Affairs 

This stunning couple were waiting for the grand entrance .

The Palmer's made their grand entrance and was greeted by family & friends 

The children of the Palmer's entertained their parents and guest with playing tunes from the instruments they played in school. They children also acted a full skit for guest and parents giving the history of how they came to be. 

The Beautiful Family including parents and offsprings grandchildren and extended family members.  

40th Anniversary Celebration Skit of the Palmer's 

Celebration Planned & Styled By Rebecca Palmer - Infinite Affairs

Rebecca Palmer  is an Atlanta Based Event Consultant with over 10 years of experience planning memorable occasions for her clients. 

Elisha Akram (Kustom Kreation Photography) is an Atlanta Based Photographer Specialing in Social Events, Weddings, Families  High School Seniors & Business Headshots!

We also custom design party supplies for life's celebrated moments! Live Love Create Go Kustom! 

Foodie Tuesday with Smarty Marty - Avocado - Shrimp Salad

Happy Tuesday !!! It's another great Tuesday with a great recipe Idea from Smarty Marty! Summer is heating up and in order to cool it down Smarty Smarty has a  cool salad idea for This week delightful delight is  Avocado - Shrimp Salad

Let's Start out with gathering up the necessary ingredients.

Ingredients

• 1 small sweet onion, chopped
• 1 pound cooked salad shrimp
• 1 pinch salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons lime juice

Directions:

Stir together avocadoes, tomatoes, onion, and shrimp in a large bowl. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Stir in lime juice. Serve cold.

Food Styled and Prepared By Smarty Marty 

Recipe By - Allrecipes.com 

Atlanta Based Photography Elisha Akram (Kustom Kreation Photography) weekly food/recipe contributor Smarty Marty(My Older Sister) combines her love for cooking, photography and plating meals each and every Tuesday for this Segment entitled Foodie Tuesday. Join us each week for a variety of dishes prepared by Smarty Marty

Christina's 9th Birthday Celebration- Hop Scotch & Jacks Tournament

One two buckle my shoe three four feet flat on the floor.... kiddie theme rhymes takes me back to times in the past when it seems like everything was so simple.  That brings me to this classic birthday celebration. Hop Scotch & Jacks Tournament! 

We were thrilled to captured moments of Christina's 9th Birthday Celebration. 

This unplugged celebration engaged the attendees in classic games. They played Hop Scotch, Bingo Toss, Tic Tac Toe and we even played Hangman. Below is a few video highlights of celebration! 

Party Created Styled & Planned By Helena Paschal -  CEP

Helena Paschal is a National Event Trainer & Personal Development Coach with over 15 years of experience in training professional event planners. Interested in Professional Event Training Learn more at correlationsllc.com

Elisha Akram (Kustom Kreation Photography) is an Atlanta Based Photographer Specialing in Social Events, Weddings, Families  High School Seniors & Business Headshots!

We also custom design party supplies for life's celebrated moments! Live Love Create Go Kustom! 

Happy National Creativity Day – Nourish Your Creative Spirit!

May 30th is the official day to celebrate the creative spirits in your world! It’s National Creativity Day! Raising my virtual glass and throwing some confetti in honor of the musicians, hairstylist, authors, actors/actresses, artist, DJ’s, filmmakers, photographers, carpenters, designers, chefs, caterers, bloggers, engineers, stylist and tons of other creatives in the world. When you really think about it everything besides nature started with a creative thought. What a cool day to stop and take time to toast the power of the imagination!

I have always loved creating things since I was a little girl. I would write, paint, re-arrange my room almost weekly, try to make things, one time at 6 years I even tried to make shoes out of cardboard!  It has carried over into my grown-up life! I LOVE everything about creating events for women and girls and gathering beautiful details and extraordinary content to make my experiences special. I love hosting family and friends in my home – and making everyday gatherings something wonderful and memorable. Why be boring!

Sometimes in life we can bury our creativity with the day to day hum drum of life. So It is important to always make time to be creative and tap into your God given talents that you were born to bring to the world.

Here are 5 great tips to help nourish your creative spirit!

1. Work when you are inspired and excited! I know there are certain ebbs and flows in my creativity and I am learning that when the spirit is flowing within it’s time to capture new ideas, design new things and take the steps to execute a plan. As a woman I have noticed my natural rhythms and at certain times of the month my energy levels are down, creativity is out the window and I need take time to rest and recharge.  I am learning to not push myself during this time and mother myself if needed.  Then a few weeks later I am the energizer bunny ready to roll!  There are even certain times of year or seasons when I am more inspired. Take note of these times and work with your flow to make the most of your creativity.

2. Get out of your comfort zone and try something different! Set aside time to write down at least 10 things that you would like to try this summer and get out there and try them!  I am normally a person that does not like to try new things. I always order the same food at restaurants but lately I have been trying new dishes and trying to cook new things.  I am normally a person that always wears black or dark colors but now starting to branch out and wear different patterns and more bold colors. Making little changes in the everyday experiences helps to feed our creative spirits.

3. Find creativity in the everyday moments in life!  Try and find ways to infuse your creative spirit into the boring task of life.  Find innovative ways to do the laundry, cook, clean, and work to make things more fun and interesting. Changing your mindset about everyday tasks can do wonders!

4. Find and connect with other creative people on a regular basis!  I was blessed to be a part of Kustom Kreations recent Portfolio and Perspectives event last month where event stylist came together to do styled shoots. The creative energy in that space was palpable and on fire!  I loved seeing all the beautiful details and how they came together. Surround yourself with creative people especially when you are feeling not so inspired! Check out upcoming events on Eventbrite that interest you and get out and connect!

5. Create space and take care of your creative gifts! I am learning to spend more time in mediation/prayer to get still, quiet and connect with God. He ultimately put every talent and gift in us when we were created. He knows best how to nurture, cultivate and grow our gifts.  Getting the right rest and having time to dream and be still allows things to flow more smoothly. When I am busy or tired I have no space, energy or desire to do anything but the basics. It’s important to take care of ourselves and be replenished! Also, schedule time to disconnect from social media and the busyness of life to find quiet spaces especially in nature to flow in YOUR gifts not someone else’s that you see online.

Cheers to your creative spirit - may you unleash more of your greatness into the world today and every day! Feel free to leave a comment and tell us what your creative gifts are or some of the new creative things that you would like to explore this summer!

By Kara Norman- Empower Her, Inc.

Kara Norman Atlanta Based Women Empowerment Thought Leader and bi-weekly blog contributor.

Kara Norman has been working with Women and Girls for a number of years. Her nonprofit organization Empower Her Inc , have led to many opportunities in the space of making social changes as it deals with women and their many roles in society. You can learn more about Kara Norman and Empower Her Inc. at http://www.empowerherinc.com/

Foodie Tuesday with Smarty Marty - Shrimp Avocado Salad

Well well here we are the Tuesday after the Memorial Day Holiday~! So smarty Marty is bring to us and easy meal idea for this Foodie Tuesday.  Shrimp Avocado Salad. Let's get started by gathering up the following items.  

Ingredients

• 2 pounds boiled or steamed shrimp peeled and deveined
• 2 avocados cut into large pieces
• 2 tablespoons diced red onion

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon parsley chopped
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• salt and pepper to taste

 

Directions

1. Add shrimp, avocado, and onion to a large bowl.

2. In a 2-cup measuring cup, mix together ingredients for the dressing. Whisk until well-combined.

3. Add dressing to shrimp avocado salad until it has the amount you desire. Serve additional dressing on the side.

Salad  Prepared By Smarty Marty

Recipe By: addapinch.com

Photography & Styling By Smarty Marty

Atlanta Based Photography Elisha Akram (Kustom Kreation Photography) weekly food/recipe contributor Smarty Marty(My Older Sister) combines her love for cooking , photography and plating meals each and every Tuesday for this Segment entitled Foodie Tuesday. Join us each week for a variety of dishes prepared by Smarty Marty

4th Grade Surprise Performance for Parents - Tomorrow by Telvin Campbell

During my son's elementary schools award banquet ceremony, the 4th-grade class surprise all the parents and guest with a surprise performance of Tomorrow by Tevin Campbell. This was so heartwarming to see them singing!!! 

4th Grade Class of Sims Elementary in Conyers, Georgia Surprises the Parents and Guest with a Performance of Tomorrow by Tevin Campbell

4th Grade Class of Sims Elementary in Conyers, Georgia Surprises the Parents and Guest with a Performance of Tomorrow by Tevin Campbell

Elisha Akram (Kustom Kreation Photography) is an Atlanta Based Photographer Specialing in Social Events, Weddings, Families  High School Seniors & Business Headshots!

We also custom design party supplies for life's celebrated moments! Live Love Create Go Kustom! 

Foodie Tuesday with Smarty Marty- Asian Chicken Egg Rolls

Ooh wee it's Tuesday and we have a delicious delight for you today. Smarty Marty whips up some Asian Chicken Egg Rolls! If you are ready to cook you up something flavorful  let's start first with gathering up what you will need to create  this dish: 

Ingredients: 

• 12egg roll wraps
• 1⁄2-1lb ground pork (or chicken or beef)
• 2teaspoons chopped fresh ginger
• 2garlic cloves, minced
• 1teaspoon salt
• 1teaspoon sugar
• 1⁄4cup soy sauce
• 1teaspoon sesame oil
• 1(16 ounce) bagshredded cabbage and carrot coleslaw mix (not quite the whole bag)
• 4green onions, sliced
• 1egg, beaten with
• 1teaspoon water
• oil (for frying)

DIRECTIONS

1. Brown chicken with ginger and garlic in pan; drain any grease.
2. Mix salt, sugar, soy sauce and sesame oil. Add to pork and mix well.
3. In large bowl combine cabbage mix and green onions.
4. Pour hot meat over vegetables and stir well. Let cool slightly.
5. Lay wrap in front of you so that it looks like a diamond.
6. Place 3 tablespoons pork filling in center of egg roll wrapper.
7. Fold bottom point up over filling and roll once.
8. Fold in right and left points.
9. Brush beaten egg on top point.
10. Finish rolling.
11. Set aside and repeat with remaining filling.
12. Heat 2-3 inches oil in large frying pan to very hot (350ºF).
13. Fry a few egg rolls in pan at a time, 2-3 minutes per side.
14. Drain on paper towels.
15. Serve with sweet and sour sauce, plum sauce, hoisin sauce or jalapeño pepper jelly.

Salad  Prepared By Smarty Marty

Recipe By: Geniuskitchen.com 

Photography & Styling By Smarty Marty

Atlanta Based Photography Elisha Akram (Kustom Kreation Photography) weekly food/recipe contributor Smarty Marty(My Older Sister) combines her love for cooking , photography and plating meals each and every Tuesday for this Segment entitled Foodie Tuesday. Join us each week for a variety of dishes prepared by Smarty Marty

Did you work on Mother's Day?

My Mother’s Day weekend was wonderful. I made a conscious decision to spend Mother’s Day eve pampering myself by getting my hair and nails done and just spending the day with myself.  It was wonderful! Sunday rolled around and we went to church and then my family took me out to brunch. I received lovely gifts and beautiful flowers.  We came home and I looked around the house and there were several things that needed to be done to prepare for the week.  My family told me to sit down and relax because it was Mother’s Day. I knew that if I didn’t take the time to get things done and plan for the week everything would really spiral out of control. I was refreshed from my self-care day the day before and got busy taking care of things on Mother’s Day evening.  I love this picture below this is totally a mother’s reality! Ha!!

I went to bed on Mother’s day feeling so refreshed and relaxed. I hit Monday morning ready for the week.  Well it’s only Wednesday and my week has been CRAY – ZAY! My Zen from the weekend has totally evaporated and I am in busy mom, wife everything mode!   I smile at myself knowing at least I tried to prepare before all the wheels came off.  So, on this week’s blog I wanted to remind all the mothers out there to practice self-care daily, heck even hourly during those crazy times.  We are the best for our families when we take diligent care of ourselves. I am always reminded of this principle when we are traveling on the plane.  The flight attendant directs the passengers that in an emergency if you are traveling with small children to put the oxygen mask on yourself first and then place it on your children. We are no help if we are passed out or exhausted mentally and physically.  So, Moms here’s your permission slip to make self-care your daily practice!

Happy Mother’s Day/Week/Month and year to everyone!!

By Kara Norman- Empower Her, Inc.

Kara Norman Atlanta Based Women Empowerment Thought Leader and bi-weekly blog contributor.

Kara Norman has been working with Women and Girls for a number of years. Her nonprofit organization Empower Her Inc , have led to many opportunities in the space of making social changes as it deals with women and their many roles in society. You can learn more about Kara Norman and Empower Her Inc. at http://www.empowerherinc.com/

Foodie Tuesday with Smarty Marty- Lemon Pepper Wings

This week's Food Tuesday Recipe Idea from Smarty Marty is one of my personal favorites... Yummy Yummy Goodness Lemon Pepper Wings! 

1st Things first gather the necessary ingredients : 

Lemon Pepper Wings
1 teaspoon season salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon lemon pepper
2 to 3 pounds chicken wings
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/3 cup butter 

Directions For Wing Preparation: 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cut wings on each join, there are two joints per wing
. 
Coat the wing portions with olive oil. Dredge the wings in seasonings. Shake off excess.

Place wings on a rack on a cookie sheet and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. When chicken is golden brown combine with melted butter and lemon pepper.

Lemon Pepper Wings Prepared By Smarty Marty 

Photography & Styling By Smarty Marty

Atlanta Based Photography Elisha Akram (Kustom Kreation Photography) weekly food/recipe contributor Smarty Marty(My Older Sister) combines her love for cooking , photography and plating meals each and every Tuesday for this Segment entitled Foodie Tuesday. Join us each week for a variety of dishes prepared by Smarty Marty

Foodie Tuesday with Smarty Marty- Summer Fruit Salad

Something sweet to eat delicious delights for all ... well, we got something natural for your taste buds this week! Smarty Marty gives us a Summer Fruit Salad... Just in time to get Bikini Fine for the Summer Time 

First things first we need to gather up all the necessary ingredients for our summer fruit salad: 

Ingredients
2/3 cup fresh orange juice
1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup honey
1/2 teaspoon grated orange zest
1/2 teaspoon grated lime zest
2 cups cubed fresh pineapple
1/2 cup mango, peeled and sliced
2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 kiwi fruit, peeled and sliced
1 bananas, sliced
2 oranges, peeled and sectioned
1 cup seedless grapes
2 cups mixed berries, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries

Bring orange juice, lemon juice,honey, orange zest, and lime zest to a boil in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat, and stir in vanilla extract. Set aside to cool.

Layer the fruit in a large, clear glass bowl in this order: pineapple, strawberries, mango, kiwi fruit, bananas, oranges, grapes, and mixed berries. Pour the cooled sauce over the fruit. Cover and refrigerate for 3 to 4 hours before serving.

Salad  Prepared By Smarty Marty 

Photography & Styling By Smarty Marty

Atlanta Based Photography Elisha Akram (Kustom Kreation Photography) weekly food/recipe contributor Smarty Marty(My Older Sister) combines her love for cooking , photography and plating meals each and every Tuesday for this Segment entitled Foodie Tuesday. Join us each week for a variety of dishes prepared by Smarty Marty