I am not a huge fan of Nicki Minaj or “Ri Ri”, but this song hits (every time)**
Happy Monday!!
Enjoy <3
*Thanks loriandleigh for posting :)
-StylReesta xoxo
**Please excuse the edited curse**
***Three months later***
Let me start by letting you know just how excited I am about all the wonderful things that have occurred over the past three months. I’m geeked! I’ve taken some time away to focus on my immediate career, and have made great moves with my company. I set my eyes on the prize, worked hard, attained exceptional results and… BOOM! I’ve been promoted, and am now in Northern, Va doing my thing! My life is shaping up quite nicely, and for that I am forever grateful!
As your adventures continue and shape the outcome of your life, there are three very important things that I urge you to always keep in mind; three things that I’ve learned to keep near and dear on my wonderful journey:
1. Don’t confuse (a/one’s/your) flawless execution of mediocrity for growth and success: Always strive for excellence! Discover new ways to refine your skills and achieve new levels of expertise.
2. Listen… to Live and Learn: Surround yourself with people going in the same direction, and listen intently! Put THE MOST IMPORTANT sense to work!
3. Be thankful, Always: Never forget who gave you the strength and the ability to do wonders here on this great earth. My Heavenly Father has blessed each of us with great gifts and talents. When those talents lead us to the places of greatness, we must always and humbly say “thank You”!! For it is not in our own strength, but because of Him that we succeed!
Stylreesta xoxo
PREFACE: “Ode to my absence”
**Takes deep breath**
Hey guys, it feels AMAZING to finally have the time again to sit and tap the keys on this oh so fantastic key board and share my thoughts with you. As many of you know, my line of work is extremely demanding (on a regular day) and is exponentially so during the last 2 months of the year into the 2nd week of January! I could go into how things have been, but I’ll save that for another time! let’s just say…
I Survived!
**Main Text**
So we’re about 4 weeks into the new year, and I don’t know about you but I am amped! I finally purchased my 2012 daily/weekly planner and have been making moves ever since! It feels fantastic! I’ve re-evaluated my financial goals, re-established my career goals, and re-focus on my personal agendas.
Many times, as we anticipate the arrival of a new year, we wait around for that clock to strike midnight, and think of ways to do what we were unable to accomplish from the previous year (makes sense). There is this sense of freshness and redemption that inevitably arises within us; an overwhelming feeling of reclamation, because we are presented with another chance to start over and finally “get it right”.
But can I be real with you for a moment…
Let’s all think of the “goals” we set for ourselves in this bangin’ new year. As I’ve already stated we are 4 weeks in… can you HONESTLY say you are consciously striving to achieve those goals? And if so, can you honestly say that you are making those goals life long habits, so that as you enjoy this amazing new year (if the Gracious Father allows) you are able to reiterate and renew that great feeling of completion?! If we are all honest with ourselves, there are some “things” that we’ve placed on our 2012 “Goals to accomplish” lists, that are not being given any real attention… we’ve made no effort to bring them to fruition. (OUCH)
If you’ve decided that you want to save XYZ amount of $$ by the end of the year, yet you go out every weekend, and you’ve lived by no apparent budget for these first few weeks… then honey, you are going in the opposite direction. (<—– Sadly This was me for the first few weeks…I’ve had my awakening :-)). What you should do is determine that specified amount, break it down to a monthly goal and make a commitment to yourself to consciously stick to it!
This is just one of the many examples out there. There are weight loss goals, career aspirations, relationship desires… and the list goes on and on! My advice to you is to RE-EVALUATE, RE-ESTABLISH, and RE-FOCUS on the goals you’ve set for yourself this year. Really take the time, sit down, and work out a plan that will bring about that great feeling of accomplishment. Set realistic timelines and be sure that they are genuinely yours. Prepare for set-backs; although we do not want to have any bumps along the way, we need to be mentally aware that things can happen, and if they do you’ll be ready to react and get back on the ball! Lastly, track your success (in written form), and CELEBRATE!! Trust me, a small celebration of your strides toward the completion of your goals will be just the fuel you need to keep up the fantastic job!
Keep it Stylishly focused!
StylReesta xoxo
In this life we all have purpose; amazing right? Knowing that we are here for a specific reason is so inspiring! However, discovering that purpose and honing in on the talents that will bring us to that expected place of GREATNESS isn’t always so simple. I’ve been away for the past month doing just that, and I’ve had great success!
I think there comes a time in every driven person’s life where you need to step back and take a serious look at how you want to shape your future. Not just in what program you want to study in school, or how many children you want to have, or even how much money you wish to make/save/invest; but more so taking an in-depth look at who you really are, what talents you possess, and how to best utilize that as your life pleasantly progresses!
So ask yourself “Who am I”? Think about what makes you tick. Don’t hold back; go all the way in, and be very honest with yourself! There is nothing worse than trying to hide the truth. If you are an overly bubbly person (like myself), then own up to it and don’t apologize for being who you are. There is a reason for that wonderful burst of energy you bring into a room, and you need not feel ashamed. If you are a more calm, cool, collected individual who prefers to sit back and observe, then own it with a vengence…that trait is of value just the same.
So here’s the real challenge…discovering what you do well? What do you love to do? What gives you a sense of accomplishment; fulfillment; intense satisfaction? No, seriously… think about it!! Do you have strong oral and written communication skills? Are you an excellent computer technician? Do you give exceptional advice, that when taken people see result and life improvement? Are you a good listener? Are you a great leader, able to build a strong rapport amongst those who work for you and lead them fearlessly? Are you good with your hands; whether with a sewing machine, carpentry, or a camera? Are you always praised for having great ideas? The list goes on and on!
The point is to be relentless in discovery. Feel free to be who you are created to be; perfecting your skills and talents and finding a way to do more of that things that bring you the most fulfillment!!! Don’t hide yourself, or buckle in shame in the face of other personalities; but allow your amazing self to live freely!
In the words of a good friend of mine…
Trust me, it will be the most liberating thing you will ever do!
Keep it stylish,
Stylreesta xoxo
On September 11, 2011 many well known spoken word artists, musicians and the like all gathered at the Art’s Garage in Philadelphia to Celebrate the life, growth, success and newly released Spoken Word Album of “The Sophisticated Poet” *My Poetry is Just Me*. Opening and closing the show, “The Sophisticated Poet” spoke with poise and passion, as her words effortlessly enlightened and captivated her listener; using her “Poetry {as} an outward expression of {her} innermost emotions”! The amazingly powerful line-up that followed, didn’t disappoint!! It was such an overwhelmingly exciting experience! The love in the room was tangible, as if it blew through the room with every spoken word that flamed from the mouths of the poets!
(The Sophisticated Poet at her best :-)
(The Audience looked great while listening intently)
(Spoken Word Artist “Smyte Nine”; First book of poetry to be released in December “Hearts, Thoughts and Words”)
(“Jay Knivez” performs well known piece “Respect”. Host of First Fridays on Vine.)
(Left: “El Poeta” Host of Poetry Unplugged. Right: Author/ Photographer Ms Victoria Puerifoy aka “The Axiom”)
(“Shyster” aka “Mrs. Betty’s Son”. Host of Jus Words, longest running weekly poetry venue …8 years and counting!)
(Vision Poet :-) ; Host of The Harvest @ World Cafe Live, Co-coach of PYPM, member of Spoken Soul 215)
“The Sophisticated Poet” possesses an endearing passion for Poetry,and has grown tremendously since her start years ago, after the devastating death of a loved one. I’ll never forget that first time she graced the stage at Panoramic Poetry back in January 2010 –(Hosted by Crucial Poet; the oldest running poetry venue in Philadelphia)– and since then it’s been nothing but greatness! She’s truly been released for such a time as this; having been featured at numerous venues around the city such as Panoramic Poetry, Jus Words, Soul Connection Philly, Art of Conversation Philly/Baltimore and more. It has been my pleasure to follow her every word and I absolutely cannot wait to see where this amazing journey will take her next!
To my dear friend:
Keep following the path of purpose with passion and humility; staying true to whom you are… never holding back the greatness that dwells within you!
For more info:
Facebook: Celeste SophisticatedPoet Preston
Twitter: @Sophistic_Poet
Booking: 215 287-0894
Find her Debut Album on Amazon and iTunes
Keep it Stylish my loves,
Stylreesta xoxo
**All Photos provided by Shawn Rivers Photography (@PhotographySP)**
Dear readers,
The contents of this post are for pure amusement, and are the result of an amazing conversation I had with my friend regarding money management!
Follow at your own risk *_*
________________________________________________
1) “Everyone has to Eat”: Calculate how much you make in one month, and spend approx 50% of it on food; dining out regularly (avoid happy hour/ living social specials), movie snack-age (Large for free refills) and other tasty treats! Yummy!! Your soon-to-be round tummy will thank you with a really big smile (you know the kind that bumps and lumps make) ^_^
2) “Generosity is the best Policy”: Whenever you see a friend admiring something EXPENSIVE…buy it for them… ESPECIALLY if they have the guts to look at the price tag and say “YIKES” (That means they really want it). If their eyes pop out…BINGO! Be sure to rip the price tag off immediately!!! That way they won’t know how much you spent… and you won’t remember! (*win/Win*) :-)
3) “Be Impulsive! Be, Be Impulsive!” Keep this mantra in mind When shopping! Remember to Accept nothing less that those “Return for exchange only” Policies! That way when shopper’s remorse kicks you across the room, down the steps and straps you down in front of a MACK Truck… you won’t have a choice for money back! Kiss that $$ buh-bye! #YES! But don’t worry, once you reassemble yourself, you can always exchange for a new outfit for the next go around! :-)
Don’t let that pay check define you or your options! You tell that green who’s mean, and live BEYOND your means! Besides, there’s always that trusty plastic stuff that works just as well! Buy now, pay when you want!
Shred the bills…who wants to see that nonsense!
(LOL)
Keep it Stylish,
StylReesta
There’s nothing worse than rushing or that subsequent feeling of “Too much to do, and not *enough* time to do it all”! I totally cannot stand it! I used to rush everywhere; from appointments, to fashion shows, to house-warmings and client meetings (sometimes forgetting certain appointments *eeek*)…it was a total mess!
Thankfully I’ve experienced the power of the Planner, and how a few simple changes have made a world of difference in my fabulous life! Being able to function day in and day out with peace of mind and minimized stress was an absolute must for me! Now…I share “my “secrets” with you:
1) GET IT! Get an event Planner to keep your life in order! Make sure it is a current 12 month planner that give you a broad view of the month, and follows with weekly/daily pages to book your events, appointments, lunch dates…etc! Writing space is a must!
2) USE IT! Dust is so out this season! A few days before the start of each month, plan out and write in the important dates…then take it to a weekly/daily view and plan out your week. Grab a cup of coffee and get to it! (Sundays usually work best for me)
3)WRITE IT DOWN! I can’t stress this enough! Keeping a mental note of your life is not “that business”, and from my experiences with my clients..those who have tried this most often find themselves overwhelmed and stressed! So Start now; grab your favorite pen (and colorful highlighters) and write your map/plan on paper!
5) UPDATE IT! When things change, or need to be added…. be sure to address it in a timely fashion! don’t let it linger in the recesses of your mind… remember…mental notes often cause stress and unfortunately can be forgotten! Update your planner immediately :-)
4) REVIEW! A few moments before you take it down at night, or before you begin your day in the morning… give yourself at least 5 to 10 minutes to review what is on your agenda for that day! This way you can pace yourself and allocate your time wisely through out your day… and when it is all said and done you’ll enjoy that feeling of accomplishment.. knowing that you did everything that needed to be done!
Don’t waste another moment! Go grab a trendy yet practical planner, a sturdy pencil, vibrant highlighters and GET TO IT! Trust me your life will never be the same!
Keep it stylish (and organized)
StylReesta xoxo
P.S. Let me know of your success….can’t wait :-) xoxo
During the last week of July I had the most delightful vacation! What did I do, you ask?? Well, I did a little bit of “this” and a little bit of “that”… but most importantly I had a whole lot of good old-fashioned ”FUN”! I graced the sands of the beach, Enjoyed the Ritzy living of the City, and hosted my first of many events to come… all while living the life I’ve been blessed with to the fullest! They say, a picture is worth a thousands words, so instead of writing a full length debrief of the activities that took place I’ll simply let these pictures speak for me, and post a few of my faves !!:-)
*Overdue, but better late than never…ENJOY*
^Front Seat Passengers *Before*^
(^AFTER the grape soda^)
** Of course I had to take over! We arrive @ the Beach Safely lol**
(I was telling him off (for disturbing my passengers) then the Paparazzi spotted us… the “got got” face smh)
(^BLACK DOT INC^)
(*StylReesta*)
(^Producer of Amazing Artestry…CEO & Founder of F.A.C.E.S in Action)
(^F.A.C.E.S Model, Michele Suarez^)
(^A few of my fave F.A.C.E.S from the night… go Mikael)
(^Trying to “Audition” for the next *FACEOFF* ::HINT, HINT::lol)
(^Gave the ladies a little Note letting them know how awesome they are^)
time off
+ great adventures
(+ great clothes)
+my favorite people
x immeasurable amounts of Laughing out Loud
——————————–
One Fabulous Vacation :-)
~Keep it stylish, StylReesta xoxo
“No one asked for your two cents” is an old saying that is usually retorted after some gives their un-solicited opinion about a situation. In the situation described below,I didn’t give it, no one asked for it, and it most certainly shouldn’t have been taken without my permission!
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Location: Coffee Shop D; Cherry Hill, NJ
Time of Day: Approx 8:54am
One early morning before work, I decided to treat myself to an Iced Coffee from _________(aka Coffee Shop D) . Since I enjoy a small french vanilla so often, I know that it costs exactly $2.13, and I usually have exact change. BUT on this particular morning I only had a $20 bill, a dime and a nickel.
I pulled up to the Coffee Shop D and with my shades in place, I proceeded through the doors like a VIP! As per usual I was greeted by all the workers and the manager, who all know me by drink. Many times they would begin to make my cold tasty treat as soon as they saw me approaching the counter! (It’s my life)
After gracing the invisible red carpet, and finally hushing the crowd, I was given the total cost ($2.13), and I handed the cashier $20.15! The lady only handed me $18 change, and walked away to begin making my drink….What’s the problem you ask? Where was my $0.02??!?!
MY mind was racing, and I couldn’t help but wonder why she would think it was okay to keep the rest of my change. Now granted, I usually throw my jingle into the tip jar, but that’s of my own volition! This time this women kept it, and it offended me that she thought it was ok!
So my mathematician-like thinking kicked in and I started to calculate:
If Coffee Shop D services X amount of customers on an average day….and Coffee Shop D *wrongfully* keeps $0.02- $0.04 from every customer->>>>> they are “stealing” a lot “$0.02″s (two cents)…
(end Proof)
To some $0.02 is no big deal, and I would agree; not having two additional pennies to jingle around in the front seat cup holder is a non-issue! But it’s the principle of the matter…and in that regard I felt robbed, hoodwinked, bamboozled!
After 2 whole minutes of intense brain activity, I tried to decide if I wanted to say something about the matter. Should I ask for my $0.02 back?! I decided not to say a word, grabbed my drink and made my way to work! But I thought of a very clever way to get my “two cents” back! (hehehe)
My resolve…
Next time I walk into this glorious Coffee Shop D –after all the bells have been rung, and whistle blown– I will wait for the total to be quoted! Once given, I will pull out $20.11… and with not so many words, my look of “don’t-you-dare-ask-me-for-two-cents-because-you’ve-stolen-from-me-before” will guarantee that I receive my full $18.00 in change… and not a penny(or two) less! (LOL)
Keep it Stylish,
StylReesta xoxo
The other day at work, I embarked on a semi swim floor move (In my Plus sized dept). I assessed the area to come up with the best solution on how to rearrange the fixtures, and wasn’t quite sure of where to start. In mid thought, one of my (head strong) employees who has been their for years, came over to try to give me a few words of advice on how “we” can set things up. (Who did she think she was to try to give “me” advice… I’m the manager…smh). I quickly retorted (negatively) with “Oh, don’t worry about this, you go over there and do what I asked you”.
She wasn’t very enthused with this answer, but she obliged and walked away. I’m sure she reserved a few choice words (SALTS)!
About an hour later, she came back to ask me a question for one of her customers. After I answered her question, she politely slipped in another 3 sentences regarding the swim move that clearly wasn’t going that well! I acted as if i didn’t hear her, and returned to what I was doing….
A few moments later, it dawned on me that she was absolutely right (I cringed that she was right)! I took her advice, and with in 15 mins everything came together! The truth is that I needed her years of swim expertise. I was half near frustrated with in the first 20 mins, and here I was a whole 2 hours later and just taking the help that was offered from the beginning. I’ll admit it… I was in my “I’m the manager, so I’m in control mode” which quite frankly turned out to cause more frustration than satisfaction.
From this simple situation, I learned that there is nothing wrong with owning your authority… but don’t let that trip u up into thinking that you can’t ask your “subordinates” for assistance (which I’m usually really good at…)! In my field of work, having only been an Executive for 2 years now, many of my “subordinates” have so much knowledge about the departments I manage…and it is totally unwise of me to discredit their advice (which definitely has a time and a place)
One day soon, I plan to be CEO and Founder of Company X, and hire a competent and experienced staff of men and women who will help me carry out my vision! So it behooves me to continue to fully embrace the strengths of others (regardless of what position the hold) :-) (Repeat)
Life is about learning, growing, pursuing, achieving, loving, living, having a blast, enjoying each moment… all while looking and feeling amazing
(Repeat)
Keep it stylish,
StylReesta xoxo
