DeDivahDeals

Fashion and Fun after Fifty

Archive for September, 2016

Cocktails and Comedy

Last Friday night the 2016 Kaleidoscope DE Cancer Conference  kicked off with a Cocktails and Comedy Show at the Embassy Suites in Newark, Delaware.

  cocktails-and-comedy-flyer

Belynda Cleare, a member of the Kaleidoscope planning committee as well as a world renown comedian was the host and she along with 6 other comediennes entertained a packed crowd in a sold out house.

  Cocktails and Comedy show host Cocktails and Comedy show at Embassy Suites

Kaleidoscope DE Cancer Conference was the dream child of Nicolle Surratte and the Cocktails and Comedy show kickoff wasn’t simply a way to raise funds and awareness to women living with all types of cancer.  The Cocktails and Comedy Show was a way to get your laugh on with comics who are also cancer survivors. 

Cocktails and Comedy Show

There were no actual alcoholic “cocktails” served at the show, however, cancer meds and chemo treatments are often referred to as “cocktails” hence the play on words.  I thoroughly enjoyed the show and was glad that hubby was also able to attend as he too had a great time.  

Date night with hubby

Laughter is oftentimes the best medicine and because the comedians could laugh and share their cancer stories in a humorous manner made it easier for others to do so as well. 

Cocktails and Comedy at the Embassy Suites

Cocktails and Comedy show in Delaware september-2016-021

The comics for the evening were:

Evelyn Butts

host of Cocktails and Comedy

David Hiltner   Cocktails and Comedy

Norma Nelson 

Comedienne Norma Nelson

Phil Porter

Comic Phil Porter

Gayle “Miss Gayle” Barren 

Cocktails and Comedy

During the evening I posted several videos on my Facebook page and a lot of pictures to my Instagram page.  I highly recommend that you check out each of the comics either there or on YouTube as they are all hilarious!

The 2016 Kaleidoscope Cancer Conference is going to become an annual event in Delaware so make sure you follow along and don’t miss it in 2017. 

Next week I will share some of the highlights from this year’s conference as well as the presenters who came out to educate and empower cancer survivors, mind, body and spirit.

Miss Gayle Comedienne

If you would like more information, please feel free to reach out to Nicolle Surratte, CEO/Founder of NspireD who is also a 5 year cancer THRIVER – 610-812-9997 or www.nspiredbynicolle.com

 

Cocktails and Comedy

 

 


Transitioning from Summer to Autumn Attire

Hello my friends, I hope you are enjoying the first week of Autumn 2016.  Today’s outfit is actually one that I wore before the end of the summer and I think it will also be a good transition into winter if worn with a pair of boots or tights – what do you think?

summer to autumn attire

As you know, black and white is one of my favorite classic color combinations and this was one of my favorite looks.  I think hubby liked it as well which is always a good thing especially since he’s on the other side of the lens.

pencil skirt and top

The red leather tote was thrifted a few years ago from Goodwill which I carried to California when I flew to Hollywood to shoot the Depend advertisement.  Do you remember all the excitement and fun of that trip, if not, click here to read the post.

California commerical

These peep toe booties were purchased from Payless and trust me, not only are they super cute, but they are also very comfortable.  

The pencil skirt was purchased from Ross Dress for Less and the tank is a closet staple that is too old to even remember where I got it.

wardrobe transition from summer to fall

The necklace was also thrifted new from Goodwill and the bracelet was on clearance at Old Navy.  I can’t remember where I purchased the large faux diamond ring, but it’s a fun costume piece.

pencil skirt from Ross

Have you started transitioning your wardrobe from summer to fall yet?  I did get rid of a lot of summer items that I didn’t wear this year and probably won’t next so now I have a lot more room in my closet! 

  booties from Payless

Have you voted DeDivahDeals as BEST BLOG in the 2016 Delaware Black Awards yet, if not, please click this link to head over to do so now, as I would love to be recognized by my readers!  You can only vote once per device, so if you have multiple devices, please use each one to vote – thank you!

Vote DeDivahDeals as BEST Blog

Have a wonderful Wednesday and I’ll see ya on Friday.  

If you missed last week’s episode of Social Media Sunday with the Delaware Blogger on AAU Teen Talk Radio – click the pic to listen to the replay.

AAU Teen Talk Radio with the Delaware Blogger

 


Smell Like Sofia Giveaway

Hello friends, I trust you had a wonderful weekend, the first full one of Autumn 2016.  Mine was very busy with the KaleidoscopeDE Cocktails and Comedy show on Friday night and then the Cancer Conference on Saturday.  I can’t wait to tell you all about it, which I hope to have written and posted on Friday.  Use the hashtag #KaleidoscopeDE on Google to learn more and see some of the highlights.

#KaleidoscopeDE Cocktails and Comedy

 It’s also time for my annual Fall Fragrance Giveaway and this year it will be a 1.7 fl oz bottle of So Very Sofía Eau de Parfum Spray and  6.7 fl oz So Very Sofía Body Lotion and Shower Gel.

Fall Fragrance Giveaway

Avon’s passionate new scent is as vivacious as Sofía Vergara herself whom I love on Modern Family, it is an essence of the unexpected. 

So Very Sofia is a playful blend of tropical passion fruit, exotic Flor de Mayo Orchid and bright golden patchouli.

So Very Sofia Perfum

You can enter for a chance to win via Rafflecopter by leaving a comment with your favorite Fall fragrance or scent.  You will also need to head over to Delaware Black Awards to vote my blog as the BEST BLOG which will increase your chance to win this So Very Sofía 3 piece set.

vote-dedivahdeals-best-blog

This Giveaway contest ends on Sunday, October  2nd, so hurry and enter, then tell and friend and share this post.  Oh and don’t forget to listen to my Podcasts on AAU Teen Talk Radio Sunday at 6:00.

Social Media Sunday with the Delaware Blogger

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway


I Won With Whitney Pampering Products for The Fall

Autumn is time for renewal and rejuvenation and thanks to my “lil sis” and fellow blogger, Whitney Nic James, I am ready to shed my summer skin and rejuvenate my face. 

I was the lucky winner of her “11 Ways to Pamper Yourself At Home + A Giveaway” and received a 19.40 oz jar of Coconut Oil Exfoliating Salt Scrub.  It smells wonderful and after using it in the shower it left my skin feeling soft and refreshed.  It also helped with the dryness on my legs and arms after a recent bout with poison oak.

Coconut Body Scrub

Not only did I win the the Coconut Oil Exfoliating Salt Scrub but she also included a few other goodies!  The box I received contained several other pampering products all wrapped in silver tissue paper along with a lovely embellished Thank You card.

pampering products for the body

Avocado Face Mask by Sephora

pampering product for home

Sephora Gift Card

I won a Sephora Gift Card

Package of que bella Purifying Tea Tree & Witch Hazel Mud Mask

tea tree and witch hazel mud mask

Dead Sea Essentials Soothing Chamomile Spa Facial Mud Mask

spa facial mud mask

ToGoSpa Coconut Eye Treatments

Under eye treatments

 

Thank you Whitney, these are all products that I will try because as you know I recently celebrated my 55th Birthday and pampering is definitely on the schedule for the entire month of September. 

After I use these products, I may come back with a follow-up post if I had any adverse reactions or was overly impressed with any of them, so stay tuned.

 

So tell me, what is your favorite home spa pampering products?

Vote DeDivahDeals as BEST Blog

Don’t forget to vote DeDivahDeals as BEST BLOG over at www.DelawareBlackAwards.com

 

Thank you and have a wonderful weekend where ever you are and don’t forget to tune in to Social Media Sunday with the Delaware Blogger AAU Teen Talk Radio.  

This is the link to last Sunday’s show with special guest Nicolle Surratte.

AAU Teen Talk Radio with the Delaware Blogger  


What I Wore On Casual Friday

I love Friday’s!

Friday is the only day that I wear pants to work and since I don’t have many pairs you’ll probably remember these.  As a matter of fact you will probably remember the entire outfit as I have worn the same Ballerina Slippers and sleeveless tank top with them. 

However, if you are one of my new recent followers then it’s all new to you and welcome to my world!

what I wore to work on Friday

Tomorrow is the first day of Autumn and the summer sun is quickly fading, but I am sure that we will have a few more warm days before the end of the month. 

I celebrated my 55th Birthday yesterday and although I didn’t reach my weight loss goal, I haven’t given up and will be adding a bit more exercise to my daily regiment. 

blue palazzo pants

A recent report showed that Americans over the age of 50 are not getting enough exercise which can lead to several diseases including an increased risk for heart disease, diabetes and cancer. 

Unfortunately, I spend too much time sitting in the car and at my desk but not enough time walking or exercising so I have decided to get in at least 30 minutes before going to bed.

comfy casual friday attire

Do you get enough daily exercise?

 I like these tie-dye palazzo pants because they are uber comfortable and are forgiving to flatter any figure.  I chose to carry this purse because of the mixed pattern and I think it gave the outfit a bit of a lift – what do you think?

fashion after fifty

Oh, did you get a chance to listen to my Podcast on Sunday?  If not, the link is below and I hope that you will get a chance to tune in next Sunday because I have started the Basic Blogging series and I would love for you to call in and join the conversation.

Have a wonderful Wednesday and I’ll see ya on Friday.

  Social Media Sunday with the Delaware Blogger


Happy Birthday and Vote 4 Me

Today is my 55th Birthday and the perfect gift would be your vote for DeDivahDeals as the BEST BLOG in the 2016 Delaware Black Awards contest.

www.DelawareBlackAwards.com

Vote DeDivahDeals as BEST Blog

You can vote only once per device, so please vote using your Android Smartphone or iPhone, Tablet, Laptop, and computer at work and please ask your friends to do the same!

Thank you very much and I’ll see ya tomorrow!

HAPPY 55th BIRTHDAY TO ME

Also, if you missed Sunday’s episode of Social Media Sunday with the Delaware Blogger on AAU Teen Talk Radio, please click the pic to hear the replay.

AAU Teen Talk Radio with the Delaware Blogger

 


The Closet Boutique Runway Show

plus size halloween costumes

Thursday evening I had an opportunity to attend an Ethnic Inspired Runway show held at the Euphoria Taproom in Bear, DE.  The show was presented by the owners of The Closet Boutique. 

The Closet Boutique is owned by three women who share the common goal of offering every woman a royal experience while shopping.

owners of The Closet Boutique

They offer the latest make-up trends, hottest handbags, trendy costume jewelry and accessories, all in an elegant ambiance.  


The lovely ladies at The Closet Boutique enjoy helping women look their best at all times.  Whether they are going to work or heading out for a night out on the town, working closely with the ladies at The Closet Boutique will help them create a look to ensure a captivating result.

Fashion in Delaware
The Closet Boutique also hosts monthly events to inspire fun, fashion and fellowship. Thursday they hosted an Ethnic Inspired Runway Show that featured clothing with an ethnic attitude all created by Terry Evans of Fashions By Terry Evans

Terry is a Clothing Designer, Seamstress, and Certified Wedding and Event Planner and her designs were the highlight of the evening.

Runway Show in Delaware

Fashions by Terry Evans

Chantel Cunningham, owner of Attitude by Chantel offers personal shopping guidance, wardrobe consulting and she also hosts jewelry parties.  If you would like to contact Chantel, she can be reached at ChantelsAttitude@Comcast.com.

jewelry parties

Veronica Hodges is a fellow instructor for The Money School of Delaware as well as the owner of Make Me Over Veronica.  She is also a Mary Kay representative who provided the make up for all the lovely models for the Runway Show. 

Mary Kay Cosmetics

Keesha, owner of Goodie Bagz by Keesha, had a large selection of handbags and accessories on display as well as a few lovely pieces featured on the Runway.

purses and accessories

 It was a very nice evening filled with fun, fashion and food as well as vendors representing TLC, Koffe Body Treats and Pure Romance.

 

 

The Closet Boutique’s Annual “Customer Appreciation Day” will be held Sunday, September 25th at 3:00 p.m. at 124 East Pulaski Highway in Elkton, MD.

  sunglasses and purses

If you missed yesterday’s episode of Social Media Sunday with the Delaware Blogger, on AAU Teen Talk Radio, click the pic for the link to listen to the replay.

AAU Teen Talk Radio with the Delaware Blogger

 

Healthy Snacks Delivered Monthly


5 Lifestyle Changes To Make Before I Turn 55

Next week I will be celebrating my 55th birthday and as always around this time of the year I starting thinking of the changes that I need to make in order to live a healthier lifestyle.

Five of those lifestyle changes include:

drinking more waterNOPE;

drinking less alcoholNO WAY JOSE;

getting more sleepNEVER;

exercising moreNOT GONNA HAPPEN

and last but not least

eat more veggiesYES YES YES!  

I love my veggies especially fresh collards and kale!

eating healthy

 

If I’ve said it once, I’ve said it a thousand times, Kale is an awesome Superfood, one that my grandmother cooked almost every Sunday, or at least twice per month.

On the other Sundays or during the week it would be either collards or cresses, which to this day, I have never seen a “cresse” in the grocery stores.

I normally don’t use much seasoning except for maybe a smoked turkey neck or wing, onion and a little bit of sugar, which is why I decided to try this Greens & Kale Seasoning Mix by Concord Foods.  Chicken broth is also good to add to the pot of water for more flavor but it’s not necessary.

seasonings for collard and kale greens

The sodium content is extremely high at 320 mg so I didn’t use the entire pack. When cooking Kale, make sure to thoroughly wash the leaves in the sink or in a deep bowl then tear away the stems from the leaves.

wash greens in a sink or deep bowl

I love fresh sweet onions but chose to use several pearl onions as they were in refrigerator – TIP: peel onions under the stove’s exhaust fan turned on low to keep from crying.  I also forgot to add some minced garlic but a few teaspoons are great to add on top of the kale once the water starts to boil.

use fresh onions when cooking kale

In a large pot, bring 3 cups of water and smoked meat (optional) to a boil.    Add diced onions, garlic and seasoning.  Pour in a few teaspoons of sugar which is also optional and stir.

add kale to boiling water

Cover pot and simmer on low heat, turning occasionally for about 2 hours or until kale is tender, add more water or broth as needed.

add hot sauce to kale

Sprinkle Red Crushed Peppers or Frank’s Red Hot Sauce on top and enjoy.

I need a little spice added to my healthy greens, how about you!

Social Media Sunday with the Delaware Blogger

Don’t forget to tune into Social Media Sunday with the Delaware Blogger on Sunday at 6 – go over to the side bar for the link.  

We will be discussing Social Media Etiquette for Boomers

Be safe and I’ll see ya next week!

 


Sisterly Bond Can Never Be Broken

Neither distance nor death can break the bond of Sisterly Love

a sister's love lasts forever

Death can turn minutes into hours…

hours into days….

days into weeks…

and weeks into months…

those months turn into years…

24 to be exact

The love for my sister has never waned nor wavered

but the grief always envelopes me on this day

the 14th of September

REST IN HEAVEN MY LIL ANGEL

you are forever missed and always loved

A SISTERLY LOVE ~ A BOND NEVER BROKEN

my best friend and maid of honor

image2013-09-10-123152-1

image2013-09-10-123152-2image2013-09-10-123152-3

 


Maxi Dress and More in Store for the Delaware Blogger

Wow, the weather this evening has really cooled down, as a matter of fact I might have to turn off the AC and open up the windows.

Saturday as I was clearing the pool deck in preparation to closing it for the season I started getting sad because I am going to miss the heat of the summer.

However, I am looking forward to less humid days and wearing maxi dresses like these will become a bit more regular.

Fashion after fifty

 

This is one of my favorites because I can change out the gladiator sandals for a pair of flats or booties and just throw on a cardigan if there’s a nip in the air.

fashion after fifty

 

I wasn’t going to post today because I was a bit behind with my posts and not feeling up to writing yesterday because my first radio broadcast on AAU Teen Talk Radio didn’t turn out as well as I wanted.

fashion after fifty

I did well, but my headphones cut out a few times which cause dead air while live broadcasting and although I haven’t listened to the replay, I am disappointed.  Hubby said, it was the first one and not to be too upset as did our Executive Producer Chevona, but still I am a bit upset.

fashion after fifty

Did you listen in?  If not, I hope next Sunday you will have an opportunity to do so because the subject will be “Social Media Etiquette for Boomers”.  Yesterday’s show was “Social Media Etiquette for Students” and my special guest was Lisa Bryant, who wrote a great blog post on social media and Greeks in College.

Well this too shall pass and I know that the broadcasts will get better, so it’s onward and upward, but right now, I heading upwards to bed as this is going to be a busy week.

Today was a busy day as I covered an event for AARPDelaware, and if you check my Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages you’ll see some highlights from the “Adopt-A-Room” event held at the Ronald McDonald House.  I will be writing a blog post about the Ronald McDonald House, so stay tuned, as the tour was very inspirational.

Oh, I forgot to ask, how was your weekend?

DUE TO TECHNICAL DIFFICULTIES THE BROADCAST BEGINS AT 14:05  – LET ME KNOW WHAT YOU THINK!

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