DeDivahDeals

Fashion and Fun after Fifty

Archive for November, 2014

Shop Small Business Saturday #shopsmall

Shop Small Business Saturday 011 Hello friends, were you one of the millions out and about yesterday shopping on Black Friday?  If so, I hope you found some good bargains.  I had an early morning appointment then did a few chores around the house, but today I’ll be heading out to support some of our local businesses.

Today is officially Shop Small Business Saturday and there are several stores in Middletown that I’m featuring and I hope that you will be out supporting some of your own.

Elana’s Florist is located on 500 North Broad St. in Middletown, and it is more than just a florist shop.  Elana’s is filled with a wonderful array of holiday items and decorations where you are guaranteed to find something for everyone on your gift list.

Small Business Saturday

Small Business Saturday Small Business Saturday Small Business Saturday Small Business Saturday Small Business Saturday Small Business Saturday Shop Small Business Saturday

Sweet Melissa Bakery is newly opened also on Broad Street adjacent to Elana’s which is convenient for your wedding and bridal shower planning.  They also create awesome personalized birthday, holiday and special occasion cakes.

Sweet Melissa Bakery Sweet Melissa Bakery Shop Small Business Saturday Sweet Melissa Bakery

Wardrobe by Carolyn & Nadira is a small boutique located on the 2nd floor at 11 W. Main Street and this is by far my favorite small shop in town.  Big Buddha Bags, evening gowns, faux fur, and tons of gorgeous accessories line the glass shelves of this hidden treasure.  Fragrant soaps and lotions are perfect stocking stuffers.  

Wardrobe by Carolyn & Nadira was previously Lai Renise, however, they still offer private shopping, trunk shows and Ladies Night Out events which is a perfect way to kick off the new year.

Wardrobe By Wardrobe & Nadira Wardrobe By Wardrobe & Nadira Wardrobe By Wardrobe & Nadira Shop Small Business Saturday 037 Wardrobe By Wardrobe & Nadira

Half Baked Patisserie is another bakery located on the 1st floor at 11 W. Main Street and their cupcakes are delicious.  With more than a dozen varieties to choose from including these seasonal flavors; Peppermint Patty, Pumpkin Cheesecake, Chocolate Chip Cheesecake, Sweet Potato Pie

your taste buds will definitely thank you.  I can’t say which is our ultimate favorite, but my husband’s goal is to try one of each before the end of the year – wish him luck!

Half Baked Patisserie Half Baked Patisserie Half Baked Patisserie Half Baked Patisserie

Middletown has such great history and it’s nice to see that there are shops in town that have been around for years, including Middletown Hardware.  Each year a Lamp Post Design contest is held with each of the shop owners participating and customers can fill out a form voting for their favorite.

Small Business Accountant Shop Small Business Saturday Lampost Contest Shop Small Business Saturday Small Town Middletown

Femme Fatale Boutique is a high end shop that offers personalized shopping, free gift wrapping and has a nice selection of many accessories including the Pandora Bead collections.

Femme Fatale Boutique Femme Fatale Boutique Shop Small Business Saturday 046

Purple Sage Teas is also one of my favorite places to shop and this year marks their 10th Anniversary – so mention this when shopping to receive an additional discount off your total purchase.  More than teas, you can also find a large assortment of coffees, Troll Beads and Zum Bar Goat’s Milk Soaps.

Purple Sage Teas Purple Sage Teas Purple Sage Teas Shop Small Business Saturday 051 Shop Small Business Saturday 052 Shop Small Business Saturday 054 Shop Small Business Saturday 055 Shop Small Business Saturday 057

Another landmark in Middletown is The Gibby.  For the holiday season you need to check out their great handcrafted jewelry, fine art, stain glass, wooden pens, and clothing. These items are all handmade by local artists, so please support your local art center and shop The Gibby.

The Gibby The Gibby The Gibby The Gibby The Gibby The Gibby

My sons are in college, but if you have little ones to shop for there are two locations that I recommend.

First and Little, sells the most adorable clothing and nursery items.  Previously a DEDO PopUp, they are now celebrating their 2nd year in Middletown.  You will definitely find a unique gift for the little one in your life.

Shop Small Business Saturday 060 First and Little First and Little First and Little Shop Small Business Saturday 066

Jewelapalozza is more than a shop for the little ladies, they also carry accessories and clothing for women as evidenced by my purchase of a burlap tote bag.  In addition to unique gift items, they also carry Alex and Ani bracelets and conduct a Santa’s Workshop where children can make 3 handmade gifts, jewelry, ornaments and handprint canvas art for only $25 per child.  The workshop is available on November 22nd, 29th & December 6th, no appointment needed.

Jewelapalozza Jewelapalozza Shop Small Business Saturday 083 Shop Small Business Saturday 084 Shop Small Business Saturday 085 Shop Small Business Saturday Shop Small Business Saturday

“Jesus is the Reason for the Season” so stop in at Saving Grace Christian Bookstore the best place in town for not only Christian books and Bibles, but also for religious maps, jewelry, clothing, home décor and accessories.

Saving Grace Christian Book Store Saving Grace Christian Book Store Saving Grace Christian Book Store Saving Grace Christian Book Store Saving Grace Christian Book Store Saving Grace Christian Book Store Saving Grace Christian Book Store

Satisfy your sweet tooth at Candy Connections.  This newly open candy store on West Main Street will remind you of your childhood with it’s large assortment of sweets in glass jars more than enough to fill the biggest Christmas stocking.

 

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If after a long day of walking and shopping you need to take a break and get some rest and relaxation please step into La Dolce Vita Spa for Wellness on 2nd West Main Street.  Now is the perfect time to schedule an hour facial or massage.  This oasis of serenity also offers hair and skin care as well as body treatments and waxings.  An Open House is scheduled for December 10th so make sure to stop in and then perhaps purchase a gift certificate for that special someone in your life.

La Dolce Vita Wellness Spa La Dolce Vita Wellness Spa La Dolce Vita Wellness Spa

However, if you plan to end your shopping day a home with a glass of wine, make sure to stop in at Fromage, to pick up a few pieces of gourmet cheese.  This cheese boutique is located on Main and Broad Streets and the knowledgeable and friendly owner will provide you with plenty of samples to help you choose just the right cheese to satisfy your palate or compliment your holiday meals.

Fromage Cheese Boutique Fromage Cheese Boutique Fromage Cheese Boutique

Shop Small Business Saturday is definitely the most exciting day of the holidays season for me and I hope you enjoyed yours as well. Christmas in Middletown Fromage 1 Fromage 2 Fromage 3 Middletown Transcript

Stay Blessed ~ No Stress in 2014!

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MelissaAndDoug.com- Over 2,000 Unique and Exciting Toys for Children of All Ages! Click here!


Healthy Leftover Turkey Recipe – Mojo Turkey Taco

leftover turkey receipes

Hello friends and Happy Black Friday.  I trust you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving, a day filled with with plenty of food surrounded by family, friends and fun.

However, if like us, you had more food than family and friends and are now looking at a lot of leftover turkey, here’s a change to the classic turkey sandwich.  This healthy recipe can be found online at Health.com.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/8 teaspoon hot chili powder (optional)
  • 1/8 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 tablespoon fat-free sour cream
  • 2 cups (about 12 ounces) cooked, coarsely chopped turkey breast
  • 8 (6-inch) flour tortillas
  • 1 cup drained and rinsed canned black beans
  • 1/2 cup bottled salsa
  • 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
  • 1/2 cup pre-shredded reduced-fat 4-cheese Mexican blend cheese
  • 1/2 cup diced peeled avocado

Preparation

1. Using a whisk, mix first 7 ingredients (through sour cream) in a small bowl. Toss with turkey. Set aside.

2. Heat the tortillas according to package directions.

3. Spoon 1/4 cup of the turkey mixture onto each tortilla. Then top each tortilla with 2 tablespoons drained and rinsed black beans, 1 tablespoon bottled salsa, 2 tablespoons shredded iceberg lettuce, 1 tablespoon shredded cheese, and 1 tablespoon diced peeled avocado.

4. Fold tortilla around taco mixture and serve. Mojo Turkey Tacos

 

I made this for my men and they loved it, it was a great treat to eat while watching football, and to save on my calories, I just added some of the turkey mixture to a salad.

So what are some other ways in which you use leftover turkey?  

Stay Blessed ~ No Stress in 2014!

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9 Tips to Help You Relax During The Holidays

Hello friends, tomorrow is the big day, Thanksgiving, the official start of the 2014 Holiday Season!

If you are beginning to feel anxious, overwhelmed and stressed, check out these 9 tips that will help you to relax during the holidays:

keep calm

 

1. Exercise

Exercise affects a neurotransmitter that has an antidepressant-like effect on your brain while helping to decrease muscle tension.

2. Spend Time in Nature

Even five minutes in nature can help reduce stress and boost your mood, helping you to relax.

3. Participate in Activities You Enjoy

Be sure to leave time for the holiday activities you love most, whether it’s caroling, decorating your Christmas tree, or writing holiday cards.

4. Stay Positive

Those who are optimistic have an easier time dealing with stress, and are more inclined to open themselves up for opportunities to have positive, regenerative experiences.

5. Take a Break or Meditate

Taking even 10 minutes to sit quietly and shut out the chaos around you can trigger your relaxation response.5Meditating during your breaks can help you to decrease feelings of stress and anxiety even more.

6. Live in the Present

Turn off your racing mind and simply focus on only the task at hand. Avoid worrying about what you need to do later in the day or tomorrow (if you have trouble shutting out such thoughts, jot them down on a piece of paper to help clear your mind).

7. Nurture Yourself

Try massage, a hot bath, mini-relaxations, or a quick walk to ease tension. Be sure you’re eating right, sleeping well and laughing often.

8. Be Grateful

Focus on what you’re grateful for. Keep a gratitude journal and write down why you’re grateful each day. Focus on what you do have this holiday season instead of what you don’t.

9. Use Visualization

Close your eyes and imagine yourself relaxing on the beach or sitting in front of a cozy fireplace with your family. You can also visualize your “perfect” holiday, which is especially useful if you’re worrying over what might go wrong. (Although, you should let go of the idea that your holiday must be perfect in order to be enjoyable.)

Stay Blessed ~ No Stress in 2014!

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Turn Your Shower into a Spa with Essio (ess-ee-oh)

Disclosure: I received the Aromatherapy Shower Kit in order to facilitate this review, however, opinions are 100% my own.

Hello friends, after a long, strenuous workout the first thing that I want to do is take a long, hot shower….naw…who am I kidding, you know I don’t engage in long, strenuous workouts!  I do however, work hard around the house and if you follow me on Instagram you would have seen my recently painted basement.

freshly painted basement

Whether your strenuous exercise comes from a workout with weights or from house and yard work, sometimes you want more than just a plain hot water shower. The Essio Aromatherapy Shower Kit turns an ordinary shower into a personal spa. 

Aromatherapy is an ancient therapeutic practice with many benefits including improved mood and energy, reduced inflammation, increased blood circulation, improved skin tone and reduced stress.

The Essio Aromatherapy Shower Kit comes with one shower arm and 3 essential oil pods.  These pods contain 100% organic, pure and sourced from the finest oils in the world however, they do not leave an oily residue.  There are no harsh chemicals or additives and the pods are recyclable. essio Aromatherapy Shower Kit

There are six Essio Essential Oil Blends and the kit I received contained the following blends:

Breathe which is a refreshing blend of peppermint and eucalyptus that helps to clear the sinuses, decrease congestion and stimulates the entire body.

Passion is an blend of mandarin orange, lavender and patchouli which is a sensual aroma that arouses the mind and senses.

Unwind is an uplifting fragrance of citrus with spice and floral tones, creating a sense of lightness and stress relief.

The essential oil pods last for approximately 3-5 showers and these scents as well as others can be ordered directly from www.essioshower.com.

The Essio aromatheraphy shower arm is easy to install and extends beyond the length of a normal shower head with a gentle pull.  After removing a pod from the tray, take off the cap and attach it to the end of the arm with a gentle 1/4 counter-clockwise turn.  Turn on the water then tilt the pod downward under the stream of water to experience a spa shower. essio Aromatherapy Shower Kit

I am excited to announce that Essio is offering my readers a chance to win their own Aromatherapy Shower Kit, but you need to enter quickly because this sweepstakes will end at midnight November 27th click this link to enter: http://bit.ly/1uSWBTY 

If you want to order a kit now to be given as a holiday gift, you’ll receive 25% off any order at www.essioshower.com, by using the code SAVE25 at checkout. Good luck!

Workout with weights

Stay Blessed ~ No Stress in 2014!

Me workout…haha very funny!

 


Delaware’s Small Business Summit 2014

Welcome to the Small Business Summit Hello friends, last week I had an opportunity to attend Delaware’s Small Business Summit which was held at the Dover Downs Hotel in Dover, Delaware. This free event was sponsored by the Delaware Economic Development Office (DEDO) whose mission is “to be responsible for attracting new investors and business to the State, for promoting the expansion of existing industry, for assisting small and minority-owned businesses, for promoting and developing tourism, and for creating new and improved employment opportunities for all citizens in Delaware.”

Social Media and Small Businesses goes hand in hand, which is why I was anxious to be in attendance.  I wanted to meet small business owners who might be interested in learning more about Social Media and Blogging and how it can attract more consumers thereby, increasing their bottom line.

DeDivahDeals brochures

The doors to the Summit opened at 7:30 am, and on this bitterly cold day, the hot Continental Breakfast Buffet was definitely a warm and welcomed delight.  At each place setting was a copy of Delaware Business Times, the agenda and a personalized Stylus Pen.

Small Business Summit Takeaways

There were well over 300 attendees and the agenda was jam packed with valuable information with sets of panelist who provided insights on how small businesses can increase their profits, gain more exposure and the programs available to all regardless of disabilities, race, or gender.

Attendees

After a brief introduction by Ken Anderson, Director of DEDO, and a few words from both the Mayor of Dover, Robin Christensen and Bernice Whaley, Deputy Director, the first set of panelist were seated to discuss Prospects for Delaware Small Businesses NOW and in the Future.

Mr. Ken Anderson

Ken Anderson, Director, DEDO

Delaware's Small Business Summit

Bernice Whaley, Deputy Director, DEDO Robin Christensen, Mayor of Dover

Panelist

Between sessions, Mr. Anderson acknowledged various members in the audience and awarded several door prizes.

The second set of panelist discussed Challenges and Opportunities-Business Ownership and Employment for Individuals with Disabilities. 

 

Door Prize Recipient

Carrie Dennis-Mayer, door prize winner Dust Away Cleaning Services, Inc.

The final session of this half day program was presented by Michelle Morin, Executive Director, DE Office of Supplier Diversity.  Her topic, Small Business Focus Program-Implication and Opportunities for Small Businesses of a Certain Size Regardless of Race or Gender, was very informative and sometimes entertaining.

Michelle Morin

The Summit concluded with Keynote Speaker, Governor Jack Markell who spoke about his signing of Executive Order 44 and the innovative ways in which Delaware seeks to keep the economy moving forward by providing assistance to small business owners and entrepreneurs.

This was especially evident with the many entrepreneurs in attendance who have taken part in Project Pop-Up, which provides 3 months of rent-free space in downtown Wilmington.

Governor Jack Markell & Executive Order 44

Governor Jack Markell Executive Order 44

The Delaware Small Business Summit was a wonderful opportunity for small business owners to network and share as well as receive vital information that will not only help them succeed but will also help keep the economy in the state of Delaware strong.

Popup Entrepreneurs

 

Jahmira from 29Eleven Governor Markell DeDivah Gov. Markell and Small Business Owners

 Does your state have programs for Small Business owners and entrepreneurs?

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Dover Downs Hotel Lobby fully decorated for the season


Black N Bootie

Hello friends, the countdown to turkey day is on?  Do you believe that I didn’t realize that Thanksgiving was this Thursday until just the other day.  I kept thinking we had another week.  

Anywho, here we are once again, a Sunday Stylin Roundup and in keeping with last week’s theme, today it’s Black N Bootie.  I wore my booties with two different outfits both of which I love but of course the leopard prints are my favorites. Sunday Stylin Roundup

Black N Booties OOTD
This vest was thrifted from Goodwill about 2 years ago, however, I’ve only worn it one other time. It is actually covering this Avon embroidered chambray shirt.

Black N Booties OOTD Black N Booties OOTD
The black suede booties are Unlisted purchased a couple of years ago from The Shoe Dept in the Exton Mall.  Necklace is from Jewelrymax.net and bangles from Rugged Wearhouse.

Black N Booties OOTD Black N Booties OOTD  You know that these are my favorite pair of booties – who doesn’t love leopard?

In both outfits I am wearing closet staples, black slacks, skirt and turtleneck which personally are not my favorites but the weather called for it.  I wore the leopard print scarf to break up all the black.  This outfit actually received quite a few compliments from co-workers.

I am using my old camera which for some strange reason is not taking as good of pictures as it used to, oh well I guess I’ll start using the Coolpix L830, however, it uses 4-AA batteries and I hate when batteries start to drain.  Next week, let me know if you notice a difference.  

Enjoy the rest of the day and I hope you finished your grocery shopping…I haven’t even started mine yet!  

Stay Blessed ~ No Stress in 2014!

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Mary J Blige ~ The London Sessions

I participated in the Mary J Blige, The London Sessions album review program as a member of One2One Network. I was provided a free album to review but all opinions are 100% my own.

Music is an important element in all of our lives whether we care to admit it or not. During the good times, the bad times, the happy times and especially during the sad times. I am sure we can all remember a time in our lives when a “name that tune” soothed our minds or comforted our souls.

My kindred spirit, my sister from “another mother’ and all time favorite female recording artist is Mary J. Blige. She understands the many challenges that women oftentimes must go through and her music is definitely a reflection of that.  Mary is an artist who is not afraid to step out of her comfort zone and do something completely different.

In this new album entitled “The London Sessions” which is being released on the 2nd of December there are some great cuts, however, ‘Therapy‘ is one that really speaks to my soul. The words in that song, “why would I spend the rest of my days unhappy…when I can go therapy two times a day” is poignant.

This is Mary’s 13th studio album, however, it was created entirely in London where she worked with artists who understood her greatness, and together they unleashed 12 tracks of awesomeness!

Mary J. Blige is a blessed soulful songstress with longevity so I know she will always create a song that will become an important element in my life.  

You can pre-order the album now from iTunes and Amazon.


 * iTunes : http://bit.ly/MJBLondon
* Amazon: 
http://bit.ly/MJBLS  


#TheLondonSessions #O2O


Avon Spa Day Giveaway ~ Wellness Wednesday

Hello friends, are you ready?

Are you ready for the shopping…are you ready for the cooking and the baking…are you ready for the decorating…ready for the crowds, the sales and the stress? Well before you get ready for all those holiday activities, get ready to enter for a chance to win an Avon Spa Day Giveaway!   Yes, I am giving my blog readers and YouTube subscribers a chance to enter to win these awesome Avon products!

Avon Spa Day Giveaway avi

If you are the lucky winner, you’ll be receiving these Avon’s Skin So Soft Luxurious Bliss products:

  • 3.4 fl oz Hand Souffle

  • 6.7 fl oz Body Wash

  • 5 fl oz Body Spray

  • 6.7 fl oz Body Souffle

  • Winter Scents Home Fragrance Samples

Now go check out my Youtube channel where you will see the actual products then come back and leave an answer to this question:

“How do you relax during the holidays?”

Giveaway is open to USA residents only and will end at midnight on 11/30/14.

Good luck!  

Stay Blessed ~ No Stress in 2014!

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a Rafflecopter giveaway


Now You Can See It with Mr. Beams!

If your house is like ours, there is at least one area that is totally dark with no light switch or a lamp, perhaps it’s a hallway or the stairs.  We keep the vacuum in a small cubbie in the basement and when the boys were younger they hated going in there to get it because it was too dark. 

If we had these Mr. Beams Stick Anywhere Task Lights there would have been no excuse because these high illumination lights really brightens up the area.

Mr. Beams Task Light Review

Mr. Beams lights are bright, battery operated LEDs that provide safety and security at an affordable price.  They can be installed anywhere with heavy duty double sided tape, velcro or two screws (not included).  They are also great for kitchen cabinets, inside toy boxes, closets and shelves.

Review Weekend 079

These motion sensors lights have a range of 10-15 ft. and can be set to stay on from  20 to 60 seconds.  Mr. Beams Stick Anywhere Task Lights need 4 – AA batteries and only illuminate in the dark so they would be good for a hallway, stairway or as a nightlight in the bathroom.  Mr. Beams also has a variety of other energy efficient wireless LED lights which can be ordered today to arrive quickly in time for the holidays.

Mr. Beams Stick Anywhere Task Light Review

Mr. Beams Stick Anywhere Task Light Review

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.