More Raw Star Love Stories

I swear there is magic in this cup of tea. It's my new this fall season must have when I come here. Always.......funny.
Yes, that's a baby rose bud in there, heaven.

Tai-Chi

Greetings Butterflies!

The word for today is rejuvenation. I found that with a class I hosted this weekend where I had an instructor come in and teach me and my fellow Butterflies the ins and outs (pun so, intended) of breath control and full body movement. I can not stop talking about how much these classes have helped me in the past year. It has been a very trying year for me and I want thank you all for your kind notes of support and encouragement. I am stronger because of it all. Okay, so Tai-Chi is also know as Ari Ankh Ka it is breathing and motion techniques that helps the practitioner move energy in his/her body. It allows you to think clearly and to stay calm in highly stressful situations. I looked up some more information about the art for you. Hopefully this will encourage you to come out and try a class at our studios soon. See you then!

What is Tai - Chi

The Chinese characters for Tai Chi Chuan can be translated as the 'Supreme Ultimate Force'. The notion of 'supreme ultimate' is often associated with the Chinese concept of yin-yang, the notion that one can see a dynamic duality (male/female, active/passive, dark/light, forceful/yielding, etc.) in all things. 'Force' (or, more literally, 'fist') can be thought of here as the means or way of achieving this ying-yang, or 'supreme-ultimate' discipline.

Tai Chi, as it is practiced in the west today, can perhaps best be thought of as a moving form of yoga and meditation combined. There are a number of so- called forms (sometimes also called 'sets') which consist of a sequence of movements. Many of these movements are originally derived from the martial arts (and perhaps even more ancestrally than that, from the natural movements of animals and birds) although the way they are performed in Tai Chi is slowly, softly and gracefully with smooth and even transitions between them.

For many practicioners the focus in doing them is not, first and foremost, martial, but as a meditative exercise for the body. For others the combat aspects of Tai Chi are of considerable interest. In Chinese philosophy and medicine there exists the concept of 'chi', a vital force that animates the body. One of the avowed aims of Tai Chi is to foster the circulation of this 'chi' within the body, the belief being that by doing so the health and vitality of the person are enhanced. This 'chi' circulates in patterns that are close related to the nervous and vascular system and thus the notion is closely connected with that of the practice of acupuncture and other oriental healing arts.

Another aim of Tai Chi is to foster a calm and tranquil mind, focused on the precise execution of these exercises. Learning to do them correctly provides a practical avenue for learning about such things as balance, alignment, fine-scale motor control, rhythm of movement, the genesis of movement from the body's vital center, and so on. Thus the practice of Tai Chi can in some measure contribute to being able to better stand, walk, move, run, etc. in other spheres of life as well. Many practitioners notice benefits in terms of correcting poor postural, alignment or movement patterns which can contribute to tension or injury. Furthermore the meditative nature of the exercises is calming and relaxing in and of itself.

Keep it Cute... Always

OMG, She so knows Make Up

Greetings Butterflies,

I am out an about finding new things to inspire me for my Spring/Summer 2010 line and I stumble across this oh so cute girl, on youtube. She so knows make up and is personable, pretty and well spoken that you wanna trust her on the make up stuff. I watched her apply make up that I admire, but for the life of me can not make happen. No matter how much I listen to the very patient cosmetologist at my local M.A.C store I so blogged about her before I will re-post if y'all care okay.

Anywho, back to Miss Missy over here her name is Aubrey and a total friend in my head as Ms. Williams would say. Just fem, you know and not ashamed and why should she be. It's no secret that I am about fashion and models and all matters of lovely with a Nubian twist and there is nothing wrong with being proud of who you are and representing it in what you do!!! However, I always need a make up artist to do the girls because I would just have them looking like scary clowns lol@self. I don't know what I am doing, however I am willing to learn and here enters Aubrey. I won't try to explain her I couldn't do her justice so, I would rather show ya. Click on title to see some of her work, or her name to check out her blog. Enjoy and remember.....

Keep it Cute... Always

Life in the fabulous lane

Greetings Butterflies,

So another fall season is upon us and I for one am looking forward to all the fashion possibilities! Okay, so we all know that this is the season of dry heat and cold and how it wreaks havoc on our skin. I suggest that you treat your self to a spa date with a pal yes, this means you as well guys. Our skin suffers during this season and we need to do things that will counter act the harsh dry heat from in door heating systems. Since the temperature will be dropping soon and we will spend more time inside our skin need more moisture. So, activities like going to the spa will assist the skin in keeping supple and hydrated. Also drinking plenty of water is an absolute for the dewy look. I like Spa 88 in New York this friendly hip spot that often gets rented out for pool parties is a starter spa for folks who have not been initiated. Or check out Spa Castle in Queens, New York I have not been but I heard, from a reliable source, there are five floors of luxuriating that should not be missed. The saunas the steams rooms the pools fantastic. Also, I say get a moisturizer you love and use plenty of it! Remember the hands that are in an out of water they need it the most. You will thank me ten years from now when your hands still look good....

Okay, folks that it for the public service announcements for the day. I hope you go check out your local spa and relax and enjoy the great season ahead!




Keep it Cute... Always

When Maat needs to be restored

Butterflies,


Maat needs to be restored....This is a first for me because if ya know me, you know I am a computer geek and live through my puter console. So why does Maat need to be restored because I forgot that I linked this blog to FB... I use my blog as therapy folks, I write about things, events, what have yous that occur in my life so I can make sense of them. An maybe someone out there might read it and use it as a cautionary tale or can identify. I wrote about an event that happened and what I decided to do about it but I am not so sure I would have wanted to share it with the FB world either. However, it happened and it is regrettable, Would I be burnt toast if the shoe were on the other foot? maybe or maybe not, because I have behavior and I don't go ape shit unless it is absolutely necessary.. So, if worst case scenario happened and someone walked up to me and was all like "Guuuurrrlll, read about you and your peoples...???? Yeah, depending how deep the matter was you might lose an eyebrow or two from the flames...lol.

However, I did not mean for persons who will remain nameless but Identities were not hidden to protect the guilty or to put you on blast. This is how I work it all out in my head. On the real I don't think anybody on FB gives a hoot on the other had you didn't kill nobody. Not sure if the issue is laid to rest or if I just violently shook the box of Killer Bees and woke them out of a sweet slumber.


Keep it Cute... Always

Time for some action

Greetings my Beloved Butterflies,

So the first draft of this entry was so fiery so full of emotion, I had to stop and re-write. You know what I mean. I erased it and have started again, cause that stuff was too hot for blogging. It started off with my being totally thrown off by my beloved mate saying something he did not know was a no,no with yours truly. Since the relationship is fairly new he got off with a six day suspension. Gurl, I do not play at all. I want to be in paradise when I am with someone and if you don't nip crazed traits quickly your the only one who will be kicking your self later. Anywho, drama did not start or end there. I was so upset when I left work Thursday afternoon I could have just spit. I got jumped on for being twenty minutes late when everyone who came to the office was like "children going back to school really slowed up traffic." Basically everyone was late that day but no, manager deary could only take out her frustration on yours truly. Anywho, I was like to myself cause I am not crazy. "what about when you call me on the weekends and what stuff done" do I ask for double time...no, but I should. I was so ticked than at some point I was like guess what that's cool. You on the "do not be all friendly with list now" So you know when I came in today it was on like hot buttered popcorn...right? Anywho, now she wanna play possum chatting up a storm to me. However, I can't stay upset with anyone for too long so you know we cool girl but you are a pain...no lol either. Well like I said this blog is total therapy and I am truly at peace with my world. Once again The Archer has to send her arrows out but luckily for the world I am no aiming at folks just yet.





Keep it Cute... Always

Butterflies

So Butterflies, was this not just the best Summer? with events, fairs, shows galore? I enjoyed and, am still enjoying and glad to have had another year to share with the extended family. I have months worth of articles about events to share. Starting with my oh, so fantastic trip to Chicago, IL back in June all the way up to BK pop up in Dumbo, Brooklyn this past August. Stay tuned it should make for a fun ride.

Nit Ra



Keep it Cute... Always

uggghhh, type upsetting

Last post April 29th dang that is foul to the foulest degree son...My bad I have been on a Facebook binge ever since that girl gave me a taste, going thru rehab leave it to so called friends to steer you wrong...lol

What up family? Dang I have lots and loads to put down...stay tuned

Keep it Cute... Always

It's time for a separation

Greetings Butterflies,

I have noticed that all my entries are getting bunched together. This is mainly due to the delay in posting since February. With the tragic loss of two close family members, has sent me into a tale spin that I am still not regrouped from. A lot of My writing work got set aside, pushed aside and got down right avoided during that time. In an effort to make up for lost time I have been on a posted frenzy which has resulted in to chaos.  I want to thank all my support system for working with me through this time.

However, I have noticed that personal entries are bunched together with community events and business events. I have decided that I am going to separate the two. As you know and have come to love "Gems of the Day" will remain my platform to showcase my work and work others I find interesting in the Fashion Industry.

Feel free to go to "Life According to Africa1" blog to get a sneak peak into the life of your girl..

Smooches,
Nit Ra






Keep it Cute... Always

The Dope Girl Project

Butterflies,

I recently attended a photo exhibit deemed "The Dope Girl Project". A collection of images that depict young women in their everyday lives and what makes them "Dope". Photographer Nakeya B. who hales from New Jersey and attends Rutgers University is the inspiration behind the exhibit.




Keep it Cute... Always

Art Pic of the Month

Butterflies,

Enjoy the colors........





Keep it Cute... Always



http://www.wisommm.org/about/history.html


http://www.wisommm.org/event_services/index.html

Fun with Little People

Keep it Cute... Always

R.I.P Beloved Big Lil Brother

Butterflies,

  My heart is heavy with grief for the life of my little brother taken too soon.  I will always love you and keep your memory alive in me and anyone that comes in contact.

I know your in a better place....beloved...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t3ENhy4eVsE

Keep it Cute... Always

Spring is on it's way.....trust me

Greetings Butterflies,

Last month was a tough one for yours truly. I lost my anchor in life however she is with me till my death. Always.

Well dear hearts,

Another month is opening up bringing us, oh so much closer to the glory days of summer!! So enjoy the pic.
I pick this one just for you...



Keep it Cute... Always

I love to play...

Greetings Butterflies,

We love to play and this weekend we did plenty of it at the Brooklyn Childrens Museum.









This is what I did this weekend.





Keep it Cute... Always

Welcome February!

Greetings Beautiful Butterflies, 

  I have some great news to announce. Drum roll please...... My Women's Accessories line will now be carried by Down to Earth Boutique & Gallery. Folks, if you have a chance to get away this weekend, let's travel down to Suffolk,Va for the grand opening of this very hip and oh, so stylish new boutique. You will get a chance to meet with the powerhouse behind this great concept store Ms. Terina McKinney, of Jypsea Inc. A respected designer in her own right.
   I personally feel honored to have my products mentioned in the same breath as KahriAnne Kerr, Harriet's Alter Ego, Bela Shehu, Letau Designs and Lelieth Co., just to name a few of the phenomenal artist on board for this venture.

So, If your game or adventurous head over to Washington Square Mall on February 7th, 2009, from 12:00pm until 4:00pm to 140 West Washington Street, Suffolk, Va 23434 for the Official Grand Opening & Meet n Greet. There will be plenty of fashion industry contacts to be made and local press reporters, so be ready for your close up? For more info goto: Myspace.com/downtoearthboutique 

See you there!!!!

 Nit

It's a new month and I am feeling charged up!!!

I am just a ball of energy these days, feeling a Patti La Belle rendition of New Attitude coming on lol.  Any who, dear butterflies here's the pic.

Keep it Cute... Always

Let It Snow or do whatever, I am going to Chill this weekend

Greetings Butterflies,


So the festivities are over and we are back to our normal lives. I am totally cool with that, this was the greatest year of my life and I only see bigger and better for the coming new year!!!

The weather forecast snow here in New York this weekend and after all the partying I have been doing these past few weeks. I welcome an excuse to stay in bed late, watch the boob tube and veg out.

Darlings, I know you have read this hundreds of times in this blog that positive thinking is the key. Dude! It is so true I can not even begin to tell you how you have to really reach for the stars even when some crappy stuff might be trying to make you focus on it. What do I mean? Stay Focused People!, Is what I mean. Last year, I decided that I would put one hundred and ten percent of my energy into taking my business to the next level and even though there is a lot of room for improvement in certain area's. I stopped worrying about what other people were going to think, and I just went for it, and let me just tell you, it was a great strategy if I can say so myself. It's like that saying a body in motion stays in motion, well a spirit surging for higher ground at some point finds angels to take it higher. I have been blessed by one great event after another and there seems to be no shortage insight. I am not saying times today are not hard and that just before jumping out of bed saying to your self "Today I will find a job." that it will happen. However, what I am saying is, if you are out of work create work for yourself. You are talented and whatever you are skilled in there is someone out there who needs your skill. Try instead of getting that one big paying assignment, find a few good paying assignments, Hell, freelance why don't ya. I do strongly feel that our realities are first born in our minds. So stay up full in thought and work that energy at all times.

I am literally fling, (yeah, with my Butterfly wings ha, how about that). So, once again you have been hit with another Public Service Announcement--Keep it Positive and Keep it Cute......Always



Nit




Keep it Cute... Always

Higher Ground part deux

Well it has all been a great big blur but it was fun!

Serron.













Serron's art work adorning our wall.






Introducing the great Serron.
















A happy shopper picking out earrings.














Musicians and Customers interacting



Jypsea's Owner Meca was in the house.
This is the place to be if your an art, music and good vibes lover
















Check out Spoken Word Artist Lyssen work the crowd!
















Keep it Cute... Always

Higher Ground

I want to thank everyone who partisipated and attended the Higher Ground event last night. It was a night full of fun and entertainment. As usual I will let the pictures speak for the selves.

Keep it Cute, Always

wired for sound

I am getting ready for everything that is now on my plate. Thank you O, for the crash course on being my own drill Sargent and not accepting mediocrity in anything.

Welcome To December...

Greetings Butterflies,




I have been running so much I forgot to post my monthly picture.


Please forgive the kid, I honestly just been grinding away at moving forward with my passions.
I have a passion to work for self, To do for self and to contribute to the greater good from the fruits of my labor. Sounds familiar? Dang straight ,I am setting Kwanzaa off early and proper like...That means I am going to make you laugh with my it's 10:17PM and I been up since 5:45AM pic.

I am going to make you think with the "You are only as good as the last conversation you walked away from and the other guy knows exactly where you coming from" and I am going to make you feel with the "Lord, I don't want to do this alone, but if I got to can I at least look cute doing it?" or should that go under the laugh category? Hell, I don't know I am exhausted.

Grinding til the dang thing breaks
Nit



Keep it Cute... Always

Greetings Butterflies,

This is your official invite.

Join me.

Keep it Cute... Always

Fresh out the oven: Holiday line item

Butterflies,

Tell me what ya think.

More Pics

Butterflies,


The event was such a success, my friends requested I post more images so, here they are enjoy! I would like for you to get a feel of the space we were in. It really was an awesome view hence the "view to a thrill" concept. We are also proud to announce that we will be presenting more shows in the future.

This photo below depicts Lydia of PoleStarImages's creativity. Lydia made this profile to display her jewelry. She also contributed her art work she is a phenomenal visual artist,an true renaissance woman she is definetly keeping Brooklyn cute.

This was one of our designers vending space. Yuko of Really Roots was in the house and everyone was going crazy over her creations.

Yes, folks she handcrafted all of these fab hats herself. I think her hats are great way to keep it cute people.

Nit Ra

The Show

Greetings Butterflies,

I would like to thank all our supporters that came out to our "View to a Thrill" event। Lydia and I were feeling like proud parents to see our brain child take off the way it did। I am truly inspired by all the well wishers that came to shop, take part in the festive environment or just to hang out। Thank you Ms. Linda Lindsay and Ms. Clarisse Kouadjo for all the support and guidance without you none of this could have been possible. I have to give a shout out to one fantastic young lady who is just amazing Miss Amika you were the best assistant ever, period. We look forward to working with you in the future.

It was a wonderful day and we all had fun.

Some of our shoppers checking out the art work.

A View to a Thrill

Greetings Butterflies,



Save the Date for a party: November 15th 2008



Please join me and Lydia of PoleStarImages as we host A View To A Thrill!! I know the flyer is small but if you click on it, it should open up, Hopefully.

For more information about the event site location check out this website.

designschemesathome.com

PoleStarImages.com








Keep it Cute... Always

Pop Up Boutique

My Time at the Pop Boutique

This weekend we took part in an event that was sponsored by Vantage Properties and The West Harlem Art Fund. The event dubbed "Hallelujah, Harlem Public Art Fest 2008" The Pop-Up Boutique featured several designers offering a variety items. The event is an effort to bring art and culture to the Upper West Side. To promote the event there were art installations in various store fronts in the neighborhood. These set ups were very striking and thought provoking. I am very proud to have been part of it. This will be a two part entry one dedicated to the window installations and the other to the Pop-UP Boutique.

I'm in the window...Dude!

Check out my products in the display window of Harriet's Alter Ego. I have no words.