CRAVE CRUSH the urban girl's blog to all that you CRAVE

1 project + 2 businesswomen = BBFF

May 3, 2011 by Kathy | Comments (0)

Have you ever been sitting in your office and wonder if anyone else could POSSIBLY run into the same problem you are having at this very moment as a business owner? Does it drive you crazy trying to figure out how to charge for your hard earned knowledge when someone asks for “simple advice?” Are you frustrated with trying to have a happy work/life balance, but don’t have any girlfriends who work for themselves who you can commiserate with?

It’s a risk to put yourself out there emotionally with other businesswomen because it makes you vulnerable and open to judgement. It is not easy to let your guard down and admit fear and frustration come with the territory of running your own business. We don’t need just Best Friends, we need Best Business Friends who “get” exactly what we are going through on a daily basis, 24/7, as sole proprietors of our own business. Best friends are our lifeline and give us unconditional love and support that we cannot live without. However, most often they cannot give us advice on how to navigate the world of entrepreneurs. Women who run their own business face different issues that women who work for corporations. For that, we are grateful if we can find a kindred spirit willing to open up with her struggles and solutions so we don’t feel alone when dealing with our own.

Here is the story of two women who were open to being genuine and honest about sharing the trials and tribulations of running their own business and got a Best Business Friend Forever out of that risk. We thought it would be helpful, inspiring and maybe even a bit hopeful if we had Jenn Sprinkle and Kathy Hanson share why it is so meaningful to discover how much you can lean on and count on another businesswoman if you open yourself up to the possibility.

Jenn and Kathy came from two different worlds this past winter—big blue sky warm Texas and the freezing cold tundra of Minnesota. Jenn, founder of Waxpaper Design House has southern charm coupled with an easy drawl that belies her savvy business acumen and years of hard earned experience as a world business traveler and designer, not to mention her cowboy work ethic. Kathy, founder of Backpocket Strategy is energetic and infectious with her passion to invigorate businesswomen to see all the possibilities in their work and personal life—she sometimes scares people with her enthusiasm for taking on a challenge (dare I say bossypants?).  These two women may seem vastly different on the outside—a 15 year age difference, one with teens, one not yet a mother, one with an office in a modern, clean house, one in a 110 year old  work-in-progress farmhouse… Yet they became fast friends and colleagues, confidantes and soul-sisters within a month of meeting. Kathy and Jenn instinctively understood each other and felt a common bond in how they saw the world and worked as entrepreneurs. They felt lucky to have found each other and that they are both open to the value a long distance business relationship can bring to a sole proprietors/ business owner who each work 24/7 on her own business. Those of us who don’t have a business coach or a mentor surely realize what an unexpected blessing it is to find a like-minded soul in this busy world.

Jenn and Kathy met on the CRAVE Dallas guide project (Kathy was Team Director, Jenn was Dallas City Leader) and they had no idea that what seemed like a one time collaboration would turn into a synergistic partnership that would grow both of their businesses in ways they never could have foreseen. More importantly, this experience allowed them to develop a bond as businesswomen that neither of them had experienced before.

In a world with unlimited communication possibilities and yet infrequent personal interaction, Jenn and Kathy realized that they shared a similar yet rare work ethic, working style and personal commitment to professional excellence.  Before long, they were coming up with strategies on how to work together despite the miles apart.

“When I first met Jenn I thought that she was a darling Southern belle. Within 15 minutes of working with her in the field in Dallas, I knew she had a work ethic and wisdom that was beyond her years. By lunchtime I secretly felt that she and I had more in common than either of us was letting on.”

“After working with Kathy on my CRAVE guide for only a few weeks, I began to realize that she was a great source of comfort and wisdom for the everyday frustrations that I feel as an entrepreneur running a business. It became routine for me to pick up the phone to talk with Kathy about something that I had previously not considered talking with anyone about. Kathy is authentic and caring, while also very professional. I began to count on our phone calls as a source of inspiration and positive feedback without even realizing it. I gained confidence in myself and my business model because Kathy was there to reassure me I wasn’t crazy with the expectations I had set for myself and my business.”

“Our similar work styles started to become evident throughout our project. How we treated others, our interns, the production staff, clients… it all became rather obvious that while we assumed many people operated as we did, it was considered very rare in the work place. Soon it became more and more enjoyable and less like “work” to get the project done. At some point in the first three months, I started asking Jenn questions about her work outside of CRAVE so I could get a sense of how we might work together after her book was done.”

Jenn admits, “I had a large scale project in the back of my mind that I always wanted to undertake but did not have the wherewithal or bandwidth to commit to. After working with Kathy and gleaning from her, her life philosophy and worldview—I knew I could trust her with helping me undertake this big idea of mine. Immediately, Kathy took the ball and ran with it and helped me psychologically, legally and strategically figure out the steps necessary to begin the process.”

Both agree, “What we didn’t realize is how much comfort it brings to finally find someone who validates your secret concerns. While it may seem quite scary or time consuming to open up emotionally to another businesswoman—the rewards vastly outweigh the risk if you both are willing to be genuine and authentic about how hard it is to be successful as a businesswomen, wife, mother, sister, friend, partner. ”

Jenn and Kathy are prime examples of the many benefits that comes from the most unexpected places (Texas and Minnesota!) when you open yourself up to admitting you need support and help as a business woman. Always keep an eye out for professional soulmates in the most unexpected places—you just never know where you will find a BBFF!

Risk Taking: Should You Dare?

February 1, 2011 by CRAVE Blogger | Comments (0)

We’re ringing in the new year at CRAVE with a question for all you women business owners out there… Do you dare? Is 2011 going to be a year of taking risks with your business, holding back, or a combination of both? To help you strategize, we are dedicating the month of January to the pros and cons of risk-taking across the board. Our business chat and blog entries will be brimming with juicy stories of risks gone right or wrong as well as advice from our CRAVE experts on when to know to take a leap of faith or to simply sit back and let life fall into place.

We knew this would be a hot topic when Melody wanted to know what her Facebook followers ask themselves before taking a risk and got SO many amazing responses. Check them out and prepare yourself for an exciting month of risks and rewards!

What do you ask yourself before you take a risk?
Just curious? before you take a risk? a leap to something new? start a new project? WHAT DO YOU ASK YOURSELF? do you write down the pros and cons? do you just do it and ask why later? how long do you ponder? do you end up jumping? or do nothing? tell me!!! what is your risk taking style?

	Suzette Sommer Oh… wow. What is a “risk?” That is one four-letter word that I have seemingly never known.
	Sydney Chavez I ask myself what I would lose if I didn’t take the leap.
	Nicole Francois before i take a risk i ask myself: why i am interested in taking the risk, what i hope to gain from it, what the result will be and who’s going to be with me? then, i outline my plan and jump!
	Maria Ross Before I take a risk I ask myself if I will regret it more if I don’t take it than if I do. I weigh pros and cons, seek advice from those I trust….and then go with my gut! At a certain point, if it feels right, all the data in the world doesn’t matter.
	Sonja Silver The first thing I ask is “what is the worst thing that can happen”? If I can live with the answer, I go for it. The biggest risk is to not take one!
	Elise Kloter same here, Sonia…puts the scary stuff in perspective
	Melody Biringer lovin all you risk takers….keep it coming! as i get older i seem to take risks slower and more cautious. i want to be naive again!
	Lauren Bacon These days, more and more I check in with my gut. I highly recommend a little book called “Make Light Work” by Kate Sutherland that has helped me enormously with listening to my intuition. (It’s cool and non-flaky, I promise.)
	Michelle Michael what’s the reward…? is it personal or financial? maybe a little of both. go for it, and surround yourself with those that support your dream!
	Lyndi Thompson My first thought: Risks can often be re-labeled as adventures. I tend to dismiss risks that I don’t feel I have good access to supportive people around me. However, most of the time I can find at least two people. I try imagine best and worst case scenario, while always keeping in mind I know I make pretty good decisions and in the end things always end up OK.
	Mary Boisselle I usually don’t ask any questions…I trust my intuition then I take a huge leap and bungie jump off the bridge or I don’t. There is a reason why opportunities come, so I can find the gem inside, whether it’s a pearl or a piece of glass.
	Larisa Goldin I try to check in with my guidance. i believe that risks are just opportunities in disguise, the only question is whether they are part of the intended path or are a test (a distraction). So based on what I get back from my inner guidance (does it feel right?) I take the risk or not.
	Rupa Wickrama Feelings of Anxiety = don’t take it. Feelings of Anticipation or Excitement = this warrants further exploration!
	Sydney Chavez I CRAVE Risk Taking. : )
	Traci Barnum Jump and figure everything else out later. Unless of course, you have a really smart husband who demands that you make a plan before you jump and break into your retirement fund for that risk. It’s a great balance. : )
	Carrie McIlveen Middlemiss It’s typically a gut feeling. I usually think it through and if it still feels right I go for it. Especially if it is something I’ll enjoy and it makes money.
	Jennifer Saphier Whitman I have to step away from the decision for a few days. It always pops back into my head while I am doing other things during the day. If every time the idea pops up I get a sick feeling, I know it isn’t the right choice. If I get excited every time I think about it, it is a definite go!

We hope these comments get you thinking about your own risk-tasking strategies for the year and that you’ll stay tuned to our blog over the next month and share your own daring deeds in the comments! And of course, have a Happy New Year from CRAVE!

Classy and Fabulous: Meet piastyle

July 12, 2010 by Nicole S. | Comments (0)

Besides being a high level personal stylist, Pia Jacobsen can now add author to her list of accomplishments. Pia’s style is classic and chic, and she helps her clients create a coordinated wardrobe that reflects their personal tastes with a refined touch. Her new book “pia…me” is Pia’s answer to some of the “questionable choices” made by women she has seen, and is aimed at helping women to develop their own personal style. At CRAVE we respect any woman who isn’t afraid to call it like shes sees it. Read our interview with Pia for an inside fashion scoop. Click here to find Pia’s book!

What are your wardrobe staples?
I’m pretty classic, personally. I have a uniform that is primarily black in the winter, white in the summer. It’s calming to me.

What do you think is the worst fashion trend right now?
I don’t know if it is so much a trend as a mistake. Bra straps, particularly the industrial strength ones are not meant to be seen. Check the rear view, choose the right kind of bra, or have lingerie straps sewn into your clothes. This trend is like a recurring nightmare.

Trends are best when they become ….
Not trendy. When a trend lasts more than a season or two, and becomes part of the fashion vernacular, it means it works, or at least appeals to a lot of women. I don’t believe in investing a lot of money in a trendy item. However, when it has proven itself after a season or two, and it works for you, buy the best quality you can afford.

What is an easy piece of style advice you wish more women would follow?
After you are completely dressed and accessorized, look in the mirror and take one thing off. A little goes a long way.

What was the hardest part about writing your book?
Letting it go.

What do you want your readers to get out of reading “pia….me”?
I want my readers to understand that while it is important to care about how you look, and to put your best foot forward, it is just a means to becoming all you can be. It is infinitely more important to learn to like yourself, to live with confidence, to establish boundaries, to live your dreams and to become self sufficient. As I say in my lectures, “walk the goddess walk”.

As a fashion stylist, how do you separate your personal taste when you are dressing a client?
That is relatively easy, actually. I know my personal taste, and am very confident about it, so I am not swayed easily by trends or other influences. But because I love fashion, I can appreciate a wide variety of looks even though they may not work for me personally. I pay close attention to what my client loves in her existing wardrobe, and what her needs are in terms of travel, events, and lifestyle. Fashion, like art, should conjure up an emotional response. Her clothing should make her feel fabulous, and serve to enhance her experiences. That’s my job.

If you weren’t working in the fashion world you would be_______?
A floral designer. Hopefully, a very avant-garde floral designer living in Paris, or possibly a landscape designer on Capri.

What do you CRAVE?
Nothing material at this point in my life. I CRAVE love, friendship, honesty, Fran’s sea salt caramels, and my body at age 19.

Keep tabs on Pia’s latest fashion updates online:
Website
Blog
Twitter
Facebook

*This publication was sent to the CRAVE company for review.

Snag the Perfect Travel Snacks

July 5, 2010 by Nicole S. | Comments (0)

Summer is finally here which means many people are planning their summer getaway. So after packing the bathing suit and sunscreen, what’s next to go into your bag? That’s right, must have travel foods! Read on for some insight from our wellness guru Jamie Dougherty.

Of course, fantastic food awaits you upon arrival. However, it is not always fun to trust the culinary “delights” along the way. Airplane and airport food? No, thanks! To make sure you don’t get hungry before reaching your final destination, it is important to pack a reusable grocery bag full of edibles that will keep well for at least 24 hours without refrigeration.

Here are the best travel friendly foods that will withstand up to 30 hours of travel. They are all delicious, nutritious, and easy to pack.

1. Dried fruit and nuts- Favorites are peaches, apricots, cherries, dates, prunes, walnuts, almonds, and pecans. Just make sure they are organic and sulfur-free.

2. Fresh fruit with hard cheese- Apples and oranges work best.

3. Roasted garbanzo beans- Rinse and drain 2 cans of garbanzos. Mix with olive oil and salt and roast at 400 degrees for 30-40 minutes. They are yummy and a great protein source.

4. Tamari sunflower and pumpkin seeds- A perfect snack when you want something fatty and salty. Click here for a yummy, crunchy recipe.

5. Honey tea cookies- Make a whole batch of these and grab one every time you need something sweet. Click here to find out how to make yummy cookies.

6. Cut veggies- Celery, radishes, carrots, and sugar snap peas work well. They also help keep you hydrated on the dry plane.

7. Your favorite chocolate bar- What can I say? Never travel without chocolate. My favorite is the Alter-Eco BlackOut bar. YUM!

8. Crackers- These will keep you way from the baggies of pretzels. The best brands are Ryvita, Dr. Kracker, and Mary’s Gone Crackers.
So this summer, whether you are traveling long distances or just doing a few day trips, be sure to pack these snacks for the journey. I promise they will keep you energized, full, and away from all the junk along the way.

To receive your fill of healthy living tips become a JAMIE|LIVING Facebook Fan or follow her on Twitter! You can also find delicious recipes at http://www.jamieliving.blogspot.com/.

Jamie G. Dougherty is the owner and founder of JAMIE|LIVING, Health and Lifestyle Counseling. She is an AADP certified Holistic Nutrition Counselor with a private and corporate practice that offers assistance nationwide. She is passionate about deliciously healthy food and specializes in helping her clients transform their lives through the power of nutrition and self-care.

*written by Jamie Dougherty for the CRAVE company

Dangerous Foods Hiding in Your Pantry

May 24, 2010 by Nicole S. | Comments (0)

Do you CRAVE a healthier lifestyle? We asked one of our favorite wellness gurus, Jamie Dougherty, for some simple ways to improve your diet by cleaning out the “dangerous” foods hiding in your pantry. Here is what Jamie had to say about those last few items in your kitchen standing between you and your healthiest self.

When people begin to eat better, the food in their refrigerator changes. More fruits, fresh vegetables, organic, pasture raised diary and meat. However there is one place that is always the last vestige of unhealthy food…the pantry! Pantries are the final frontier of “hazardous for your health” foods. Pantry food must be shelf stable, meaning food items are pumped full of chemicals and preservatives to make them last longer. Processed foods are also loaded with sugar, low quality oils and genetically modified fillers that can damage our bodies.

Luckily there are a number of tasty alternatives to replace the unhealthier models. Here are a few easy pantry raiding swap-outs to get started.

Top 5 pantry foods to replace

Bread crumbs

OUT - The packaged stuff. Full of hydrogenated oils, sugar, and anti-caking agents.
IN - Make your own crumbs. Take unused stale bread, put in a food processor with sea salt, and then toast in a slow oven. Keep them in the freezer or in the pantry in a sealed container.

Broth

OUT - Bouillon cubes, powder or canned stock. Full of sugar, low quality salt, MSG, and genetically modified ingredients.
IN – Homemade or organic boxed stock (Pacific Naturals Vegetable Stock is very good).

Cooking Oils, Fats & Sprays

OUT –Aerosol oils (PAM) and vegetable shortenings. Dump the corn, peanut, vegetable, soybean, safflower oils, margarine, and Crisco.
IN - High quality extra virgin olive oil, extra virgin coconut oil, sesame oil, flaxseed & hemp oils, ghee/clarified butter, organic butter.

Salad Dressing and Sauces

OUT - Bottled dressings, marinades, sugary BBQ sauce, ketchup, soy sauce.
IN – fruit sweetened ketchup and BBQ sauce (check out Organicville), tamari/shoyu, and homemade dressings. Use good oils, balsamic/red wine vinegar, ginger/sesame oil/tamari, tahini with lemon.

Vanilla

OUT - Imitation vanilla: loaded with corn syrup and added sugars.
IN – Real vanilla extract and vanilla beans. They’re expensive, but totally worth it!

To receive your fill of healthy living tips become a JAMIE|LIVING Facebook Fan or follow her on Twitter! You can also find delicious recipes at www.jamieliving.blogspot.com.

Jamie G. Dougherty is the owner and founder of JAMIE|LIVING, Health and Lifestyle Counseling. She is an AADP certified Holistic Nutrition Counselor with a private and corporate practice that offers assistance nationwide. She is passionate about deliciously healthy food and specializes in helping her clients transform their lives through the power of nutrition and self-care.

Insight from Makeup Artist, Sheila Patel

May 21, 2010 by Jennifer L. | Comments (0)

Whether it’s just a hint of blush on our cheeks, a swab of lipgloss to our puckers, or a brush of mascara to our batting eyelashes, we all want to look and feel our best! However, with the plethora of make-up options out there, finding the right products can be quite overwhelming…what color foundation to use, what eyeshadows look best on a brown-eyed beauty, liquid eyeliner or pencil??? This is where renowned make-up artist, Sheila Patel comes into the picture. With a trained eye, a steady and skilled hand, she applies the right mixture of shadows and powders…Voila! You have your own customized look. Here is her expert advice and a video featuring the “Artist at Work”, enjoy!

What was the inspiration or motivation behind starting your business?

My sister in law, Xuan Thu Pham encouraged me to get back to doing something that I have excelled in in the past and all the credit goes to her for my getting back in.

What mistake have you made in your business that you will not repeat?

Overscheduling. Earlier on in my career when I just started out, there was a time when I was working continuously from one makeup client to another in a single day. Because I worked with more clients than I could manage in one day, I felt that I did not put in the effort and time that each client deserved. I wanted to give the focus and attention to each person, but with time against me, I was not able to do that. From that experience on, I never did that again. Each customer is special to me and I’ll only work on a client at a time – that is my philosophy.

What is your favorite make-up brand?

I like different makeup brands for different reasons. I use MAC, Shu Uemura, Glauca Rossi, NARS, Makeup Forever, Ben Nye, and Kryolan. In fact, I have so many different brands in my professional makeup toolbox that I can’t name all the brands I enjoy using. Each brand is uniquely used for different purposes and events such as TV or weddings. As an everyday favorite makeup brand, I like Bobbi Brown.

What defines the Bollywood style? Do you think it would cross-over to the U.S.?

I’m glad you asked me this question because so many people have different notions of what the “Bollywood style” is and what it really means. Coming from Mumbai and having worked with Bollywood and MTV – I see the different perceptions of how people view Bollywood. What defines the Bollywood style has more to do with what you see on a film set: the movie scenes, dance scenes, and the ensemble of women who dress up in extravagant attire along with the extravagant makeup to go with it. Bollywood is about glamour, visual performance artistry, and telling a story.

This is why a Bollywood style is not suitable for everyday looks. If you’ve ever seen a wedding scene from a Bollywood film, you’ll notice the rich colors, embroideries, and magnificent jewelry that the women are wearing. Also notice their makeup – it’s created and done up to be very dramatic. When you wear such beautiful clothes, your face is competing with it and pales in comparison to what you’re wearing. That’s why it has to look very dramatic.

I think it the Bollywood look can absolutely cross over to the U.S. if it’s in the wedding space. However, with everyday looks, it might be too much, especially without the costumes. But if you’re up for that look for yourself, why not?

What is your favorite make-up look for spring/summer?

I have this secret passion for the orange and yellow color theme. If it’s done well, it can really work for you. Case in point: you can use a yellow eyeshadow

and apply it over your eyelids. Then use an orange eyeshadow to contour the lids as well as the edges. Next, you can define your eyes with black eyeliner and mascara – and voila. Most people think they can’t use these colors, but you can!

What is the most common make-up mistakes you see people make?

Mismatched foundation has to be the topper on the list. This is the most common mistake I’d like to see people stop making. Coming from an Asian country, there is an obsession to have fair skin. People try to correct that by using light foundation. The end result? Your skin will end up looking grey. Also, some people tend to incorrectly use bronzers or foundation that’s too dark for them, which are really too orange for one’s face. This looks hideous.

A good indicator of using the proper foundation for yourself is to reference it in natural sunlight. Typically, when you buy it in the mall under fluorescent lighting, it’s easy to make the mistake of buying the wrong color for your skintone. What you can do is apply a small amount from the tester on your skin – step outside and see if it matches your skin. Just be true to your skin tone and be proud of your natural beauty.

Visit Sheila Patel at:

Website: sheilapatelsf.com

Blog: bit.ly/MakingFaces

Twitter: bit.ly/cZvamc

Facebook: bit.ly/cKLfS7

YouTube: bit.ly/91hB9F

How to Plan Your Perfect Summer Party with LA Glam

May 20, 2010 by Nicole S. | Comments (0)

Planning a party can be loads of fun but let’s be totally honest…planning and attending the same party can be tough. That’s why CRAVE asked Christina Murphy, who runs LA Glam Events with her partner Erin Preuss to give us a few pointers. The good news is that with a little planning and creative magic you can host a party everyone (including you) will love!

With the summer party season about to get into full swing starting on Memorial Day Weekend it’s a perfect time to treat your friends to a love-everything-about-summer party that will set the standard for everyone else. (And no, it doesn’t require boatloads of cash or a swank Hampton’s seaside soirees.)

4 easy ways to make your Memorial Day BBQ better than everyone else’s…

1) Invites: Evites are ok, Paperless Post is so cool (but pricey) and so why stick to the norm. A trip to the 99 Cents store will yield a plethora of fun and funky ideas. It’s much less expensive than you would think to send unusual invites and it’s a great way to make your party stand out from the rest. Mix and match and let your imagination run wild. It’s half the fun.

2) Food: it’s sort of crucial to a good party. Nothing is more delicious and easy than good old fashion burgers on the grill and burgers don’t have to boring. Add an array of interesting self-serve toppings like sautéed mushrooms, arugula, bacon, avocado, etc to create a gourmet burger bar. You can even ask people to write down their custom burger, name it and take pictures for your own Burger Hall of Fame.

3) Cocktails: a trip to your local farmers market will start your inner mixologist juices flowing. Take all the favs (fresh squeezed OJ, grapefruit, lemon and lime) throw in some new twists (muddle berries, pineapple or watermelon) and some smoothie-like purees (cantaloupe, honeydew, banana and mango).Use some basic alcohols and set it all out for people to create their own signature cocktail. People love experimenting and the bonus is for the people who are going adult-beverage free they can make a killer virgin version of the same thing.

4) Décor: for some seriously-talented-crafty types décor is a hallmark of their parties. For me, with limited time, décor needs to be simple and accessible. My favorite budget friendly décor item is cotton quilt fabrics. These fabrics are your new, super crafty best friend. You can make awesome mix and match table overlays (most standard fabrics aren’t wide enough for a full table linen) but they make cute overlays either over whatever linens already have or over plain white sheets hemmed to fit your table. Mix patterns and colors to create a really festive look.

The good news is all these projects are relatively easy and don’t require a bunch of time or money. Just give yourself a week to work on your décor projects in the evening and prep your food and juices the morning of your event and you will be able to party-hardy with all your pals!

Spring Eating for your Healthy Body

April 26, 2010 by Nicole S. | Comments (0)

We are all familiar with the old adage of Spring cleaning, but did you know that it doesn’t just apply to your closet? Spring cleaning is also important for our bodies and very helpful in flushing toxins, losing weight and creating increased energy. The best place to start your spring cleaning is with spring eating! Jamie G. Dougherty, owner and founder of JAMIE|LIVING, Health and Lifestyle Counseling, offers us a fresh approach. Spring foods are light, water-logged, and perfect for cleaning out our systems of excess junk. Some of the most popular spring foods include:

Asparagus: High in potassium and folate which aids the cardiovascular system- Roast with olive, sea salt, and pepper with a splash of balsamic vinegar.

Artichokes: A good source of iron and calcium- Steam and enjoy with your favorite vinaigrette.

Dandelion Greens: Aid in liver cleansing- Blanch, then sauté with garlic, olive oil, and top with currants and pine nuts.

Green garlic: Delicious young garlic plant that has anti-bacterial properties- A perfect addition to eggs or a frittata.

Radishes: Very high a vitamin C. Eat them raw or dip in hummus or your favorite dressing.

The best place to find spring foods it at your local farmer’s market where vendors will have the freshest produce available. Here is a perfect dish to get your started. Who ever thought spring cleaning could taste so good? Enjoy!

1/2 pound asparagus, ends trimmed, cut in 1-inch pieces and blanched for 3 minutes
Sea salt to taste
2 cups brown rice, freshly made or leftover
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs like mint, cilantro, tarragon, marjoram
1/3 cup toasted pumpkin seeds

1. Whisk together the lemon juice, vinegar, salt, mustard and garlic. Whisk in the oil, taste and adjust seasonings.

2. Cut asparagus into 1 inch pieces and place in boiling water for 3 minutes. Drain and set aside.

3. Add asparagus to the rice and toss together with the Dijon dressing.

4. Add the fresh herb and pumpkin seeds and toss all together. Taste, adjust seasonings and serve.　

To reheat leftover rice: Place cold rice in a small pot with ÂĽ-1/2 cup of water (depending on amount of rice). Bring to medium heat and let steam for 4-5 minutes, or until water has evaporated. Remove rice from the heat and mix with your dressing.

To receive your fill of healthy living tips become a JAMIE|LIVING Facebook Fan or follow her on Twitter! You can also find delicious recipes at:　www.jamieliving.blogspot.com

Jamie is an AADP certified Holistic Nutrition Counselor with a private and corporate practice that offers assistance nationwide. She is passionate about deliciously healthy food and specializes in helping her clients transform their lives through the power of nutrition and self-care.

Go on Girl, Light Your Fire: The Fire Starter Sessions

April 23, 2010 by Nicole S. | Comments (0)

Danielle LaPorte is all about keepin’ it real. She believes in telling it like it is, and is an avid believer in feminine power. Her latest project, “The Fire Starter Sessions” is an e-book for entreprenesses that comes with video and worksheets to help you get the most out of each sizzling session. The root of Danielle’s theory- which every woman can appreciate– is that our actions are driven by desired feelings. What other remarkable wisdom does she have to offer? We asked her a few questions to gain some insight on what really drives her and why her new book is so rockin’.

Once you let Danielle get you jazzed about your own inspiration, you lucky CRAVE ladies can pre-order a copy of the “Fire Starter Sessions” right now! Just click here.

You give people inspiring advice about following their passions in life, what sparked your own “ah-ha” moment?

It was more of a series of soul-sucking moments and gigs than an “a-ha” moment. But it all added up to creative sovereignty. My voice, my time, my way of being of service.

What makes the “Fire Starter Sessions” distinct from other programs for entrepreneurs?

It’s about rocking your revenue streams and doing meaningful things in the world. It’s as much about self-realization as it is about hard core strategy.
Each chapter is it’s own “Fire Starter Session” that includes: e-book components, video inspiration or interviews, and worksheets. Some of the sessions are: True Strengths & The Metrics of Ease; Branding: Clarifying the Diamond of You; Products & Services: Making Stuff That Feels Good to Make; Money: More is More, Enough is Plenty; Web Design & SEO: Your Virtual Real-Estate…Whether you’re in the early idea phase or a rut, it’s about lighting a fire under your…aspirations.

Summarize your teachings into a motto for how you/to live your life.

Your truth is worth it.

Would you give the same advice to a female business owner as you would give to a male?

Yes. But a woman is more likely to take it.

How would you describe your number one strength?

Deep listening. I also build a mean campfire and write bad poetry – which I consider an endearing strength.

Why do you believe it is that so many people do not choose their career path based on their true passions?

Profoundly wanting to belong. That will never change. On top of that deep driving psychology, we pile on social “norms” like dress codes and executive titles, salary structures, everything the goddamn Jonses are doing, and the popularity contest that is social media itself, and well, it’s the makings of an identity crisis.
If can you tune out the noise of “how-to” and “10 steps” and “proven tactics” you will be able to hear your own spidey senses: genuine, sincere, with great reflexes, and it will tell you that you are the expert on you — and you know what lights your fire.

What has been your most rewarding experience with a client?

One of my favorite results of working with any client is helping them decide what they’re going to STOP doing. It makes me giddy. It often goes like this: I’m going to STOP…being the administrator. Worrying so much. Under-selling myself. Checking Twitter obsessively. Feeling the pressure to be so successful. I’m going to stop using my cousin as my web-designer.

It’s freeing for everyone. And freedom is the best part of being an entrepreneur.

Still want more? Order your very own copy of the complete “Fire Starter Sessions” by clicking here. You can also learn more about all of Danielle’s endeavors on her website, whitehottruth.com.

Q&A with Kate-Madonna of girl.meets.geek

April 23, 2010 by Karina | Comments (1)

Kate-Madonna doesn’t mind being called a geek. In fact, it’s become somewhat of a pen name for this social media maven, ingenious inspirer, and winning wordsmith. For the past eight years, she has spun and cast a wide web across the Twin Cities and beyond, motivating individuals and organizations to unlock and pursue their passions through social media and marketing. With countless speaking engagements, nationally printed articles, and her wildly praised blog girl.meets.geek, we were thrilled just to be able to catch up with her! Here, she discusses her non-conventional approach to goal-setting,  grown-up movie theatres, and how her daughter keeps her focused on what’s most important.

How would you describe your business in exactly three adjectives?
Human. Honest. Connective.

What is something people may be surprised to know about your job…
I consider it after the birth of my daughter to be my life’s greatest work. I’m given a platform to tell people that being authentic is the ticket to sales, success and relationships that MATTER—there’s nothing better than that. My job is something that I’m constantly learning from, and bringing to new levels. I have no business plan: Can you believe that? The moment I make a goal, I feel that I box myself in. I have my guidelines and hopes- and I plan to exceed them all.

What or who inspired you to start your business?
I’ve been blogging for almost eight years and dreaming of becoming a writer since I was 7. It wasn’t until last year when I looked around the room of potential job seekers and realized that the dream of wanting to change lives never went away, it just took another form. The business found me, and I’ve never, ever looked back.

Who is your role model or mentor?
My daughter. Hands down this child reminds me of the need to calm down and back away from the computer, or get onto the floor. Routinely you can find me singing along to the animated toys with her in the Target toy aisle. Without her perfect silliness, I’m really nothing. Additionally, there is a a mentor I was given in business years ago who with his wife, have always been there through my greatest failures and successes. Never before have I had someone to look me straight in the eye and say, “Fail Anyway. You’ll learn from it.” Mr. Pollack’s passion for shaping me into who I am really has humbled me to see what I can do to give back.

What business mistake have you made that you will not repeat?
As a woman, I’ve undersold who I was to try to play with the bigger players. I found that when I believed in my value, people were often willing to pay more than I imagined for my services because I believed I was worth it. I’ll never doubt my value again.

How do you spend your free time?
It’s split between a new obsession, spin cycling class at Lifetime Fitness, to which I’ve only recently understood the beauty of padded riding pants and cheerfully watching The Wiggles for the 89th time.

Where is your favorite place to go with your girlfriends?
It’s only recently we’ve found the VIP theater at the Mall of America. For a few bucks more than a normal movie you’re served WINE during the movie and no one under 21 is allowed in. This means peaceful enjoyment and couch-like seating. It’s a mecca for me and friends and often, it’s the recipient of the ‘wine giggles’ after our 1/2 glass and another viewing of, “Hot Tub Time Machine.”

What do you CRAVE? In business? In life?
I crave stories, passion and everyday miracles. When someone opens up to me, or I’m able to connect with another soul- I’m content. I also crave sinks that do my dishes for me and a preschooler that doesn’t think it’s hilarious to turn off the bathroom light when I’m in the shower, but whatever: little things first, right?

Next Page »