An Umbrella Do Over!

"Kazabrella." available on amazon.com

It’s never too late to create a do over. Look at this reinvented idea for an umbrella. We all have experienced umbrellas that are cumbersome to open, tricky to close and completely soaks the flooring in vehicles.

It took someone with the innovative spirit to re-engineer the mechanics of the “umbrella.” Instead of closing in, it closes out; making it much easier to use! Share your experience with us!

Go ahead, take your idea from an invention to an innovation.

Healthy Food Do Overs

Junk Food vs. Healthy Options

Like many others, the struggle of wanting to eat healthy is one thing, but doing it is quite another. I’ve been guilty of the double cheesy fries with a triple bacon burger. As tasty as it sounds, the effect on my waist line left me with the greatest regret.

Adding to this craving is the major factor that I am currently working towards an MBA; that means late nights snacking. Isn’t it time for a food do over?

Roasted Salmon in coconut oil with an avocado dressing.

What I’ve discovered is that healthy food can actually taste delicious. How to integrate healthy habits into everyday life for that food do over? Just try these quick and easy recipes that will definitely satisfy your cravings.

Healthy Food Do Overs 

Oven Roasted Vegetables

Oven Roasted Vegetables

Cauliflower, broccoli, pumpkin or even eggplant mixed with a bit of olive or coconut oil, salt and some fresh seasonings, place in a preheated oven at 350 for 20minutes.

Baked Sweet Potato Fries.

Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet Potato fries can be made using the same technique. They take a bit of time to chop and roast, but the hot oven makes crispy, faux-fried goodness.

Lentil Tacos

Lentil Tacos (vegetarian delight)

What's needed:

1¼ cups brown lentils (8 ounces)

3½ tablespoons homemade taco seasoning mix

1 red onion

2 cloves garlic

1 tablespoon olive oil

1½ tablespoons ketchup

8 to 12 whole grain or corn tortillas

Toppings of your choice: Lettuce, fresh tomatoes, shredded cheese, salsa, sour cream

What to do:

In a medium sauce pan, bring 1¾ cups salted water to a boil. Add 1¼ cup lentils, cover, and reduce heat. Simmer covered for about 20 to 25 minutes, until most of the water has been absorbed.

Mix the taco seasonings. Wash and chop the lettuce and fresh tomatoes, if using.

Finely dice 1 red onion and 2 garlic cloves. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet; add red onion and sauté for about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute more.

Turn off the heat and add the lentils. Stir in 3½ tablespoons of taco seasoning mix and 1½ tablespoons ketchup. Add more seasoning if desired.

To serve, add lentils to a warmed tortilla and top with lettuce, tomatoes, shredded cheese, salsa, and sour cream. Fold and enjoy!

Raw Brownies

Raw Brownies

What's needed?

1 cup walnuts (unsalted)

1/2 cup cocoa powder

1/8 teaspoon sea salt

1 1/4 cups dates (about 12)

1/4 cup almonds (unsalted)

Cinnamon

What to do:

1 Remove the pits from the dates. If the 1/4 cup almonds are not already chopped, place them in a bag and hit them with the back of a spoon to break them into pieces (we’ve found this is easier than chopping).

2 In the bowl of a food processor, place 1 cup walnuts. Process on high until the nuts are finely ground.

3 Add 1/2 cup cocoa powder and 1/8 teaspoon kosher or sea salt. Pulse to combine.

4 Turn on the food processor. As the processor is running, add the dates one at a time. Once all the dates have been added, the mixture should be crumbly but easily formable (it may form into a ball depending on how long you process it). Throw in the almonds and pulse a couple times to combine (if a ball has formed, you can also mix in the almonds in a bowl).

5 Form the brownies: Line a small square dish with wax paper and press into the desired thickness (don’t worry if it does not fill the entire pan; the brownies are easy to shape). Alternatively, press the brownies into a mini-muffin tin or another mold. Place in the refrigerator or freezer for 5 to 10 minutes to firm up; they can easily be cut when cold.

Try these healthy food do-overs and let me know how they taste. Even share some recipes and let's see how we can create a do over!

Design Do Overs...inexpensive ways to have an expensive look!

"Dancers in flight," by Rory Moses

Picture this, my mother like many other mothers saved everything her child accomplished growing up; from report cards, Mother's day cards, even the School Based Assignment (SBA) projects which I will forever be indebted.

When I bought my first home, I knew I wanted some artwork that were totally original. The problem was, everything was beyond my budgeted amount, that's when it clicked. I would rummage through the items my mother saved and find pieces that were one of a kind.

"Old town," by Rory Moses 

It was a golden treasure filled with pastel paintings, water colors and pencil drawings hidden away in my old bedroom. I sorted them into my favorites and had them framed. 

"Looking out," by Rory Moses

They added the necessary "drama" to the room and were conversation pieces. Even if you're in a rental or have a property of your own, add some design to you space with a simple and effective design "do over."

 

Framed artwork using original pieces by Rory Moses

Here are some inexpensive and budget friendly tips you can implement on your own:

Use window panes:
Old window panes from the French colonial style homes provide an attractive and "chic" art wall at the back of your sofa, or on a corridor wall. 

Windows panes overload

Old photos are excellent to use. Just scan them and print them in black and white. Then simply stick them on the panes with tape. Like magic, simple and easy art! 

Window pane with black and white images

Stretch fabric over a canvas or fabric frame:
A remnant piece of fabric you love, part of your Carnival costume fabric, or a pattern you adore. All can become art when stretched over a canvas. Here, a beautiful print takes the place of a large painting.

Stretch fabric mounted within frame

Tree branches on wooden planks:

Dried tree branches in its natural form can be mounted using screws on painted ply board or wooden planks. Quick note: these look better in pairs or groups of three.

Tree branches mounted on painted wooden planks

Wire clip hangers:
A favorite magazine cover, your children artwork, a black and white image, even a quote you love can all be used. Collect no less that five wire clip hangers and mount your images within your space.

Wire hanger artwork

Just remember use images that inspire you! These quick and inexpensive art pieces will transform any room, and most importantly are always interchangeable.

Do you have any tips you would like to share? Let me know what are your design do overs for your space.

A Do Over for Haiti!

Hurricane Matthew 2016 devastation in Haiti

Haiti needs our HELP!

Let's lend our Caribbean brothers and sisters a helping hand to assist with the country's do over due to the devastation of Hurricane Matthew which affected millions on the island.

Sisters looking on at the destruction of Hurricane Matthew

Please help how you can. Whether its through monetary donations, providing food items and clothing, here are five legitimate ways we can help:

1) Through the banks:
The commercial banks in partnership with the Government have open accounts where donations can be made to help the people of Haiti. See the list of banks and account numbers below:
   

Banks	Account number
Scotiabank Trinidad and Tobago Limited	74815 /1209309
First Citizens Bank  Limited	2366947
Bank of Baroda	95610200000740
RBC Royal Bank of Trinidad and Tobago	11-000-000-335-9145
Republic Bank Limited	180 801 049 001
JMMB Bank	557769-0201
First Caribbean International Bank (Trinidad and Tobago)	180002851
Citibank (Trinidad and Tobago) Limited	5109882021

2) Make a donation every time you text:
By texting the word ‘HELP’, Digicel customers across the Caribbean can help to make a huge difference to the people of Haiti. Digicel will donate all funds it receives to three Haitian charities – Haven, Paradis des Indiens and Prodev. In addition, there is no restriction on the number of texts a customer can send, so people are free to donate as much as they like. To donate, Digicel customers can text 5151 except in Barbados (5152), French West Indies (9995), Guyana (1218), Jamaica (444-2452) and Suriname (2727).

Resident looking at the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew

3) Support local charities:
Is There Not a Cause (ITNAC) has been working in Haiti for years. They are taking financial donations as well as clothing, non-perishable food items and medical supplies. For more info call 624-4162 or 742-1879 or direct deposit can be made at any FCB bank #1660410. A group of citizens have also started a collection drive at Veni Mange Restaurant on Ariapita Avenue.

4) Support Haiti-based NGOs:
If you want to donate directly to the Haitian people, there are a few places  you can contact. Blogger and activist Attillah Springer listed some of them.

Haitians trying to adjust to the affects of Hurricane Matthew

5) If you live in South Trinidad:
The San Fernando City Council in collaboration with NGOs, the San Fernando Volunteer Network, Corporate volunteers, the Barakah Foundation, Rotary Club, One Love Trinidad, Naisa, JTA Supermarket and other donors have joined together in coordinating the Haiti Relief Charity Drive to assist the families affected by Hurricane Matthew. The SFVN will have volunteers deployed at the bandstand area on Harris Promenade, San Fernando to aid in the collection of donations for the "Help 4 Haiti" Drive. Feel free to take your donations between 8am - 6pm any day of the week since they will be collecting items until October 25th, 2016 for their  first shipment.

Haiti needs our HELP!

David Dewer Career Do Over... Turning passion into profits!

To the left: David Dewer in one of his first ever designs from the band Poison in 2004

Sitting in a workroom, feathers and gems everywhere. There is the smell of hot glue wafting through the air. The phone rings and negotiations are taking place about fees. This is now the life of David Dewer, one of the newest and most creative designers on the Carnival scene.

Growing up in Diego Martin in north west Trinidad, the middle child of three, David always had an artistic flair; infusing color and creativity into everything he touched. Like many children of the 1990’s, moving from “Kidde's” carnival into adult mas, his love for the atmosphere on the road Carnival Monday and Tuesday was electric.

In the last 8 years, David began creating his own specialized designs to wear on the road. His stand out costumes caught the eye of many masqueraders, and more importantly carnival band owners. In 2015, his presentation of two design options for Trinidad’s large band YUMA was sensational. The two costumes were the stand out sections that year. Completely different designs keeping within the theme of the band.

One of David Dewer's first concepts as a carnival designers for Trinidad Carnival band YUMA

This was the start of something brand new; David was able to transition his passion and love for carnival into an avenue for revenue. Since his first designs, he has become a key creative component up the Caribbean, Miami, Toronto and off course a staple in Trinidad. Even branching out with “Monday” wear catering to various size clientele. Some key points he follows to convert his passion to profits are:

1.      Observe. Do research and you’ll see the valuable skill set needed to take your passion to profits. Ask yourself: What does this industry need right now? What is unique about my approach that’s seldom done?

David Dewer branded logo

2.      Brand. Now that you’ve put your original spin on a creative role, it’s time to set up your brand. Branding is a group of ideas and approaches behind your work that must be cemented tangibly through card, logo, start building your social media channels. Begin with LinkedIn and enter as much information as possible.

3.      Related. Now is the time to plan. Map out the dollars and cents; dictate how much you need to earn in your first six months. It's a good idea to plan for a creative slump by having an alternate and consistent stream of income.

4.      Connect. Relationship building is key. Start within your own personal connections and find like-minded creatives who may be able to assist you or be interested in your business. A simple announcement via a status update and email directing your friends and acquaintances to your new business will lay the foundations of your following.

2015 Frontline design for the Carnival band YUMA. Designed by David Dewer

2014 male section leaders for the band YUMA. Designed by David Dewer

2017 Monday wear. Designed by David Dewer

2017 Frontline designs for the band YUMA. Designed by David Dewer

So while David is busy planning his Carnival 2018 designs, consulting with Monday wear and getting ready to make his mark in new territories. He’s expanding his passion and turning it into profits. Interested in his designs? Follow him on IG - Caribeboi

The one, the only Tupac...a true poet

The late and great Tupac said it best, "Keep your head up!" How many of us would love to take something we're passionate about and turn it into profits?

Think passion...and convert it into profits$$$

I've been lucky to interact with a group of talented, determined entrepreneurs who took their passion in design, blogging, graphics, events, videos, food and more transitioning it to a profitable business. Look out for tips and some additional secrets to their success.

Let me know what you all are thinking so far, even send me any ideas and let’s see how we can create a “do-over” moment.

Turning a passion into profits

Business do-overs…Turning a passion into profits.

Prepping for a 60 minute cardio work out known as spin

With the majority of weight lost completed, I continued along the fitness journey with a determination to keep it off! What worked for me was a constant level of a 60-minute cardio workout within my regime.

Eventually, the spin workout on the bike helped transitioned my gym life with  even more added benefits. In 2005, I participated in an international spin certification course to become a certified spin instructor. As a spin instructor I led 60 to 70 people in classes wanting a fun cardio workout.

Whether you're running, swimming, taking a cardio class or hopping on a spin bike, here are some cardio tips I’ve observed that you can incorporate in your heart-pumping sessions.

Teaching a 60-minute spin class.

TIP 1. Do more than two types of cardio a week:

In order to build overall body strength and endurance and to prevent repetitive stress injuries, it's important not to do the same type of cardio all the time, such as running. You'll get even more out of your cardio workouts if you include at least three different kinds each week.

TIP 2. Include sprinting intervals:

By alternating between a few minutes at a moderate pace and throwing in bursts at a faster pace, you'll burn more calories, build endurance, and become faster and stronger. Not to mention, intervals are also proven to reduce belly fat.

TIP 3. Use those arms:

Many forms of cardio are all about the legs, so when possible, maximize your cardio time by focusing on working your arms as well. Swing them while running (don't hold on to the treadmill or elliptical handles), get creative with your arm strokes while in the pool, and don't forget to use them while in your Zumba or other cardio class instead of resting them by your sides.

Adding an outdoor cardio workout into the routine

TIP 4. Lengthen the duration of your workout:

Most cardio workouts last between 30 or 45 minutes, so burn more calories by pushing yourself a little longer. Check out how many extra calories five minutes of cardio burns.

TIP 5. Incorporate strength training:

The main focus of cardio workouts is to burn calories through high-intensity movement, but you can also use this time to strengthen your muscles. To target the legs and glutes, incorporate inclines on your runs, bike rides, and hikes. When in the pool, utilize the resistance of the water to tone your muscles by using webbed gloves.

TIP 6. Make it harder:

Aside from adding inclines, find other ways to make your cardio workout more challenging. Stand instead of resting your glutes on the seat when on your bike, run with high knees, try the more advanced version of the move your fitness instructor is demonstrating, and do the more intense butterfly stroke instead of the crawl. Remember that compared to the rest of your day, this workout is only a short time, so give it your all.

Outdoor spin class taking place, turning a passion into profit

These simple but effective tips will assist in your personal “do-over”. Take it one day at a time, but never give up. Just remember your goal at hand and what you want to ultimately achieve. You never know, you can take this passion for healthier living into a profitable outcome. Look at me, I loved participating in spin, and was able to transition this passion into a revenue stream as a spin instructor. My next post will provide some other examples of individuals who’ve taken their passion and turned it into profits.

Let me know what you all are thinking so far, even send me any ideas and let’s see how we can come up with a “do-over” moment.