Celebration of Life (My Life)



Me- 41st Birthday



Yesterday was my 41^st Birthday (yes, I’m in my forties honey… I don’t look a day over 30 -at least that’s what a twitter follower told me J lol..lol..) . Yesterday I took the time to reflect and appreciate the wonderful gift of life. This time last year I was still dealing with the diagnosis of Lupus and trying to figure out just how I would live. Besides a flare up and depression, what should have been a milestone celebration (my 40^th birthday) was anything but. This year I decided things would be different. I’ve grown to accept that I will forever have lupus BUT Lupus won’t have me. I will NOT stop living. I will (and have) become an advocate and a glimmer of hope for all my lupie sistas who are still fighting. When I awoke yesterday (mainly from Face Book notifications – You guys were on it! Mini me had the first notification at 11:59 p.m. Saturday night), I immediately knelt down and THANK THE LORD for allowing me to live and survive another year-despite Lupus.



My New Grand daughter Mailia Elizabeth Fowler



I’m in a new city (I relocated to Atlanta), I became a grandmother for the 2^nd time (hi Malia), my projects and businesses are thriving, I’m happy and BLESSED. I knew I would not sit around sad or depressed on my birthday this year. I was going to get dressed, put on makeup and rock out like only Mz. Sixx can. I decided I would get out of my comfort zone and I would start crossing a few things off my “50 before 50” list.



#My View- after the Falcons beat The Oakland Raiders 23-20



Yesterday afternoon, I attended my first live NFL game yesterday (Atlanta Falcons vs. Oakland Raiders). It was very exciting to sit in the executive suite (hosted by Verizon Wireless). The view was awesome- nothing like watching it on TV. I felt like I could reach right over and touch the players. I could see every move, every play, hear every cuss word (lol) and actually understood what was going on. I felt myself cheering and screaming like a Justin Beiber Fan (sweating out my freshly blow dried natural hair) cheering for the falcons to make a touchdown. For the first time I think this year, I had on my infamous 5 inch stiletto ankle boots, leather legging, and an Asian inspired top. Some of the executives kept touching my pants & rubbing my legs (Saying ummmm ” I like those” looking at me like I was a pulled pork sandwich). If I was conceited I would swear they were checking for me…lol..lol.. My co workers surprised me with a cake, they sung Happy Birthday, and we DRANK LOTS OF WINE ( lol..lol). During half time, the band played the wobble- and YOU KNOW YA GIRL GOT HER WOBBLE ON!!!!!! The cheerleaders did a skit and the players do a chat- and you RISE UP (#ayeeeee) #Go Falcons, it was like a party (or maybe I turned it into one ...lol..lol..). Nonetheless, this chica had a ball. Food, wine, good company, and the home team won-made for an enjoyable afternoon.



Me-Rocking my Leather Leggings



It felt good to get out-breathe fresh air- and celebrate MY LIFE… MY WAY! The celebration hasn’t stop and it won’t stop (in my Diddy voice.. “Won’t stop..Can’t stop”). I made a vow to myself to live MY best life and KEEP THE CELEBRATION GOING!!!!!!

** please peep the #purpleEverything #LupusAwareness-EVERYDAY**



The infamous Bathroom Pic ( in the Executive Suite @ The Georgia Dome)



Until Next time fam,

Live.. Love.. Laugh..

The Lupie Chick TM

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Instagram: Naturally_Lupie

FaceBook: www.facebook.com/Mz.sixx

Twitter @AuNaturaleDC & @LupieeChick

Trying to get bootylicious for ya'll ( well for me)

I’m back!!!!!! Sorry I was gone for so long- I’ve been doing Lupus walks, hosting lupus awareness events, and I was promoted and relocated to Atlanta, Ga.  A lot of you have kept up with me via social networks, and I promise to blog and not abandon you guys.

Overall I’m doing great-I’m not in a flare up, I’m controlling my stress ( sometimes), my skin is clearing ( I had a few stress induced breakouts a few months ago) and my hair is back thriving, growing, and healthy.  Now my weight on the other hand… errrr…. ummm yeah…

The time had come for me to do something about all this jelly I’m walking around with.  I’ve been really uncomfortable in my skin since packing on 26 pounds (thanks to predisone). My clothing are  too tight, my breast got larger, feet got bigger/wider, and I got a booty ( I’ll keep the booty for $300 Alex) after I eat, I look 5 months pregnant and my tummy leaves an imprint in my maxi dresses ( not cute). I have been in denial for months- telling myself- I’m thick, I look ok- I can wear this weight- UMMMMMNNN .. STOP PLAYING AND FOOLING YOURSELF DIVA… its unhealthy and it DO NOT LOOK GOOD.

I think my son tried to drop a hint on me a few weeks ago, when I asked him to grab me a soda ( while in Wal-Mart) he said “ which one? “, I replied “ the Pepsi” he said “ you know they have diet right?” ummmm BOY HAND ME THE DAMN SODA! ** THAT’S WHAT I WAS YELLING IN MY INSIDE VOICE TO MYSELF** I looked at him and said “you got jokes”, he said “I was just showing you”. No baby boy was telling me I was fat and I need to be on a diet!

Over the last few weeks I’ve been preparing myself and getting my mental in order. I’ve stop purchasing soda ( I don’t bring it in the house), cut WAAAAAAAYYYYY down on my cupcake consumption ( I haven’t had one in 3 weeks), down to 1 cup of coffee a day, have increased my veggie intake, and making healthy choices with my desserts (frozen Yo plait whips are the best!!!). I’ve explained to my husband and kids- this is a lifestyle change FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY! I will not cook multiple meals or buy grocery for me and a separate set for them- NO SIR- GOING BACK OLD SCHOOL- EAT WHAT I COOK OR STARVE (that’s what my mamma use to say).  I will not “diet” or do anything unhealthy- we all know they don’t work and I need to make lifestyle changes that I can live with forever.  I’m a work in progress but I have my eye on the prize.

I know I need to incorporate an exercise routine- BUT THE LORD KNOWS I HATE THE GYM!!!! **yikes**.  I’m not in a financial position to join a gym right now-so I will use my FREE resources ( NO EXCUSES). There is a park not too far from my house with a walking trail, there is a walking path in my neighborhood, and during inclement weather I will use my WII fit ( that i have YET to use). I will purchase a jump rope, hula hoop,hand weights, and resistance bands. ** I already have sneakers, and workout gear-just haven't used them**

Mister (my lupus) has been playing tricks on me! EVERY TIME I say I’m going to work out- he wanna show off, aches and pains in my legs, knees, and feet. I gave into his foolishness for a while- BUT BABY (in my Chrisette Michelle voice) it’s OVER NOW!!!!!! NO MORE EXCUSES!!! I’M NOT HAVING IT.

In order to track my progress, I needed to take my measurements and face the ugly truth.  $hit got real when I took my body measurements-BABBBYYYYYY- I was so embarrassed and angry.

My stats as of July 31^st

Weight-217.50-DO NOBODY SAY I DON’T LOOK LIKE I WEIGH THAT MUCH- THE TRUTH OF MATTER IS- I DO!!!!!!! Trust me – I weighed myself 3 times to be sure

Stomach -41 inches

Breast -36 inches

Left thigh-24 inches

Right thigh-25 inches

Waist 41.5 inches

Health & Fitness CHALLENGE!!!!!!!!!

Rules:

NO COOKIES/CAKE| CHIPS| COLA (including diet)| caffeine for 30 DAYS

NO FRIED FOODS FOR 30 DAYS

Drink 1 green smoothie (minimum) 3 days a week 30 days

Minimum of (1) meatless meal per week (for 30 days)

30-60 minutes of moderate exercise 3 days a week for 30 days

·         Start slowly and build up gradually. Give yourself plenty of time to warm up and cool down with easy walking or gentle stretching. Then speed up to a pace you can continue for five to 10 minutes without getting overly tired. As your stamina improves, gradually increase the amount of time you exercise. Work your way up to 30 to 60 minutes of exercise most days of the week.

·         Break things up if you have to. You don't have to do all your exercise at one time. Shorter but more-frequent sessions have aerobic benefits, too. Fifteen minutes of exercise a couple of times a day may fit into your schedule better than a single 30-minute session.

·         Be creative. Maybe your workout routine includes various activities, such as walking, bicycling or (line) dancing ** try doing to cupid shuffle, wobble, and booty call, back to back, and see if you don’t break a sweat! #trust you will**

·         Listen to your body. If you feel pain, shortness of breath, dizziness or nausea, take a break. You may be pushing yourself too hard.

·         Be flexible. If you're not feeling good, give yourself permission to take a day or two off.

My goal is to lose 10 pounds in 30 days and loose a few inches around my waist and stomach- I think that is attainable and realistic. My goal weight is 185 pounds, I would like to fit into my size 12’s comfortably, and overall get HEALTHY!!!!!!! Once I reach my goal weight and flatten the tummy-I will do something I’ve always wanted to do- a boudoir photo shot!!!!!!! Who’s with me??????

**waves** I know you want too- #LetsGo!!!!!!!!!

P.S. I decided NOT to post my "before"pictures ( I will post them on Sept 1st) and I will NOT step on the scale again until Sept 1st. Make sure you take pictures of your body during the 30 days and we will post at a later time.

Be sure to follow the hastag #DivaGettingFit on FaceBook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Disclaimer: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information is not intended to be patient education, does not create any patient-physician relationship, and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your health care provider before starting any eating or exercise program

Day 8: Sleep more for younger looking skin

Get Enough Beauty Sleep
By Amy Wechsler, MD

Get More Beauty Sleep If you don't have any early obligations today, sleep in as long as you like. If you have to get up early, take a nap later in the afternoon. The ideal time for a nap is about 8 hours after you get up -- that's when your body temperature naturally takes a little dip (a sleep inducer); it's part of your normal biological rhythm. So give in, and experience the beauty benefits of a little power nap.

How to Power Nap
Take off your shoes, and get comfy on a reclining chair, couch, or bed.

Close the blinds, or turn away from any direct sunlight.

Set an alarm for 30 minutes. That gives you 10 to fall asleep and 20 for your actual nap.

Avoid napping after 3 p.m. -- it can disrupt your nighttime sleep.

Here's a great reason to get more sleep.
Keep focusing on your inner beauty, fostering friendships, moving your body, eating well, going green, relaxing, and simplifying.

The information included on this blog is for educational purposes only. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. The reader should always consult his or her healthcare provider to determine the appropriateness of the information for their own situation or if they have any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment plan.

Day 7: Be positive for younger looking skin

Focus on Your Inner Beauty
By Amy Wechsler, MD

Today is all about inner beauty. Use these inside-out beauty tips to get the radiant glow that comes with inner peace:

Focus on the Positive Try this tonight: Make a gratitude list for the day. Write down three great things that happened during your day. They don’t have to be out of this world. They can be as simple as the fact that you ate well all day, or that you hit a big deadline at work, or that the sky at sunset was beautiful. Just three good things, simple as that.
See how being positive can keep your heart young and help you avoid these.

Meditate Stress Away Stress takes its toll on your skin, your hair, and your natural good looks, so make sure to keep stress well under control. Meditation is a great way to work through stress, calm your mind, and keep your brain functioning at its peak. In the hour before your bedtime tonight, try this simple meditation.

Continue to foster friendships, move your body, eat well, go green, relax, and simplify.

The information included on this blog is for educational purposes only. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. The reader should always consult his or her healthcare provider to determine the appropriateness of the information for their own situation or if they have any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment plan.

Go Green for Great Skin-Day 3

Day 3: Green tips for younger looking skin

Green is beautiful. So today, start nurturing the green goddess in you with these green tips for naturally glowing skin:

Drink Green Tea
Green tea keeps you hydrated, as does water, but here's the difference: Tea is brimming with good-for-you flavonoids. So fill a big thermos with green tea in the morning, and sip it all day -- hot at first, over ice later, if you like. Start today, and continue drinking green tea every day for the rest of the week.

Green tea's good for a lot more than your skin

1. Cut Your Cancer Risk Several polyphenols -- the potent antioxidants that green tea is famous for -- seem to help keep cancer cells from gaining a foothold in the body by discouraging growth and then suppressing the creation of new blood vessels that tumors need to thrive. Study after study has found that regularly drinking green tea reduces the risk of breast, stomach, esophagus, colon, and prostate cancer.

2. Soothe Your Skin Got a cut, scrape, or bite, and a little leftover green tea? Soak a cotton ball in it. The tea is a natural antiseptic that relieves itching and swelling. Try it on inflamed blemishes, sunburns, or puffy eyelids. But that's not all. Green tea has been shown to help block sun-triggered skin cancer, whether you drink it or apply it directly to the skin -- which is why you're seeing green tea in more and more sunscreens and moisturizers.

3. Steady Your Blood Pressure Having healthy blood pressure -- meaning below 120/80 -- is one thing. Keeping it that way is quite another. But people who sip just half a cup of green tea a day are almost 50% less likely to wind up with hypertension than nondrinkers. Credit goes to the polyphenols again (especially one known as ECGC); they help keep blood vessels from contracting and raising blood pressure.

4. Protect Your -- or Your Mom's -- MemoryGreen tea may also keep the brain from turning fuzzy. Getting-up-there adults who drink at least two cups a day are half as likely to develop cognitive problems as those who drink less. Why? It appears that the tea's big dose of antioxidants fights the free-radical damage to brain nerves seen in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

5. Stay Young The younger and healthier your arteries are, the younger and healthier you are. So fight plaque buildup in your blood vessels; the sticky stuff increases the risk of heart disease and stroke, adds years to your RealAge, and saps your energy. How much green tea does this vital job take? About 10 ounces a day, which also deters your body from absorbing artery-clogging fat and cholesterol.

6. Lose Weight Oh yeah, one more thing. Turns out that green tea speeds up your body's calorie-burning process. In the every-little-bit-counts department, that's good news!

Go Outside, Take In Nature

Spend at least 20 minutes outside today -- and over the next 6 days -- soaking in some "vitamin G" (for green). Mother Nature can be extremely therapeutic, and the fresh air will do you -- and your skin -- a world of good. Walk this way to chase away stress.

And remember to keep doing the activities from Day 1 and Day 2 -- relax and simplify.

Beauty Bonus: A Cleopatra Beauty Tip

Try a luxurious milk bath tonight as part of your unwind routine: Add 2 to 4 cups of whole milk to a warm bath, and soak for 20 minutes. Then, give your body a loofah or washcloth scrub. Follow that with a rinse, a gentle dry down, and an all-over moisturizer application. Ahhhh, that's better

The information included on this blog is for educational purposes only. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. The reader should always consult his or her healthcare provider to determine the appropriateness of the information for their own situation or if they have any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment plan.

9 Days to Younger Looking Skin- Day 1

If you follow my natural hair care blog (Au'Naturale By Mz Sixx) then you know all too well about my skin issues. I once had BEAUTIFUL, BUTTERY, BROWN skin. Over the years my skin has become scarred, problematic, and sensitive. I've recently discovered that alot of my issues are Lupus related. I've already begun a "simple" beauty routine, to help clear my skin of the acne outbreaks, rashes, redness, and scarring. I ran across this article and thought I would share. I will be posting tips by Amy Wechsler, MD 9 days to skin renewal plan.

Day 1 -Simplify Your Beauty Routine
Pare Down Your Beauty Products- Over treating your skin with multiple products is one of the most common problems dermatologist Amy Wechsler sees, so narrow your collection down to a few select items. Dr. Amy's must-haves:

One gentle everyday facial cleanser
Two good moisturizers -- one with sunscreen for day, and another for night
An exfoliate to use two or three times a week ( I make a natural sugar scrub that's gentle & moisturizing- I use it 3-4 times a week)

Simplify Your Skin Routine
In the morning, wash your face with your hands -- they're naturally thorough, but gentle. Apply your daytime moisturizer to still-damp skin; let it soak in before applying makeup.

Repeat at night, but spend a minute longer washing your face to be sure you remove all makeup, dirt, and residue from the day. Then, apply your nighttime moisturizer.
Recommended Skin Products
CLEANSERS
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash
Dove Sensitive Skin Foaming Facial Cleanser
Aveeno Ultra-Calming Foaming Cleanser

** I use Cetaphil Gentle skin Cleanser on the days when I wear makeup I do the OCM cleaning method**

For acne-prone skin, try one of these:
Clinique's Acne Solutions Cleansing Foam
Clean & Clear Advantage Acne Cleanser
Topix Benzoyl Peroxide 5% Wash

DAYTIME MOISTURIZERS
Eucerin Extra Protective Moisture Lotion with SPF 30
Kinerase Cream SPF 30
Topix Replenix CF Anti-Photoaging Complex SPF 45
Neutrogena Healthy Defense SPF 30
Aveeno Continuous Protection Sunblock Lotion for the Face SPF 30
** I use Neutrogena Healthy Defense SPF 30 **

NIGHTTIME MOISTURIZERS
Aveeno Ultra-Calming Moisturizing Cream
Topix Replenix Cream
Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion
Revale Skin Night Cream (contains coffee berry)
Two that contain retinol:
Philosophy Help Me Retinol Night Treatment
Topix Replenix Retinol Smoothing Serum 2X, 3X, and 10X (also contains green tea polyphenols)
** I use Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion **

EXFOLIATING TONERS
Clinique's Clarifying Lotions (or try their 7-Day Scrub Cream Rinse-Off Formula)
Kiehl's Ultra Facial Toner
Philosophy Microdelivery Peel Pads
Daily Microfoliant by Dermalogica
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Toner
** I use Rose Water or Homemade Green Tea Toner**

For acne-prone skin, try this:
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Toner Astringent Lotion

Get Ready for Beauty Sleep
Start by asking yourself: How many hours of sleep do I need to feel really refreshed? If the answer is 8, and you normally get up at 6 a.m., you should be in bed by 10 p.m. That means you need to call it a day by 9 p.m. to give yourself an hour to wind down and wash up. ** my doctor recommend this as well with help with insomnia**

Need extra inspiration?
Sometimes we jump into new routines without much thought, and then drift away from them after a few days. Keep that from happening this time by mentally stepping into your plan. Spend at least 15 minutes focusing on why you're doing this and what you're hoping to get out of it. Then, go for it. It's only 9 days, after all.