The new Addiction :)

Hiii Beautiful People...Hope all is well!

Follow me on Instagram :)

Love

Love conquers all... A saying that seems so cliche, but inspires so many. Love? What does that mean to you? What does it encompass? What will you do to have it in your life? Do you give it? Are you receptive to it? Love. Well Love has always been something that has been apart of me. I knew love in the womb. As weird as that sounds. lol But a mother's love is something you can never forget. My dad? I  never experienced that bond or love between us. I was never subjected to it from him. Does he Love? I would hope so. Does it make me lose sleep at night? Not at all. However, Love surrounded me. In every way you could possibly imagine. I was love. Someone might think that I am being too corny or too excited about Love. Pssh! What do they know? Love is the most beautiful thing in the world. It's free. It's easy to spread. It transfers a positive energy from one person to the next.. effortlessly, without any hurt or pain. Love is... Amazing. Simply put. I would love to know how Love has infiltrated into your life. What does it mean to you? Sure love can exist between your wife/husband, girlfriend/boyfriend, family member/sibling, friends...all these people require some Love out of you. But what about the love you have for yourself? Have you ever thought about how much that needs to be nurtured, cared about, grown. I tell myself "I love you Dominique".. This act causes me to accept the love and to give it all in one sentence. It allows me to be accountable for loving myself. Some people fail to love themselves..that is my point. If you can love those around you, make sure you show yourself that much love. This took a random turn? lol The moral of this is Love. Love. Love and when all else fails...Just love some more. 

Be sweet  :)

Theres something about....

There's something about waking up in the morning and feeling blessed that you have another great day to do something absolutely amazing. There's something about falling in love and hoping that it will never end... There's something about family, those that know you better than know yourself...honesty, trust, it all makes sense... There's something about oranges..delicious..yum! My favorite! There's something about shopping, therapeutic.. There's something about friendships the old friendships ... the friends that can finish your sentences... The friends that would never let you down..yeah those friendships. I love those. There's something about working out daily, and going to the gym...drifting into space as iTunes shuffles to every song that feeds your body more energy... especially those last 5 minutes when you want to get up...and you cant! There's something about confidence... exuding it..and knowing..just knowing how awesome you are! yes we are! There's something about socks.. oh how i love them! The colorful ones are my favorite. yeah socks make me happy! There's something about fighting temptation..yes even though it may seem so right..and good..just turn your other cheek..stay strong! There's something about goals..ambitions..the determination to get there. There's something about the quiet moments in a bubble bath where you are able to listen to your own thoughts. There's something about love, happiness, and the pursuit of the American dream that allows us to want, desire and hope for all things that are amazing. 

until next time.

Summer Family Fitness Tips!

Summer provides many great opportunities to be active and enjoy time together as a family. Making fitness a family priority paves the way for a lifetime of healthy, active living and makes it easier for all family members to incorporate exercise into their often busy schedules. Here are a few tips to help make the most of summer fitness in your family

Find Fun for All Ages

one of the biggest challenges in getting the whole family together for fitness is finding activities that involve family members of all ages. Swimming and bike riding are often good ideas because they can be modified in a number of ways to include everyone. Find a local event, such as a 5K fun run. Many such events include smaller races or other activities for younger kids, and some even allow strollers and dogs. Letting kids and teens invite friends their own age to join in family activities is also a good idea.

Get Outside



In many places, summer is a great time to be outside. Fresh, warm air and sunshine are excellent motivators for physical activity. Many outdoor activities also provide lots of flexibility and are therefore great opportunities for family fun and fitness. A simple day at the park, complete with a kickball game, a hike and some playground time can keep adults, teens and children active all day long.



Add Variety


Keeping things interesting by doing a variety of different activities will keep every member of the family motivated to stay active. Trying new activities as a family is a good way to strengthen relationships and learn from each other.



Dedicate Time


Summers tend get busy very easily, so scheduling time for fitness activities as a family is important. Making it a recurring event on certain days of the week or writing it down in the family calendar are good ways of keeping all family members accountable. Scheduling exercise as a family is also a good reminder to individual family members of the importance of prioritizing physical activity.






Take Turns Choosing Activities


Give every family member a role in family fitness time by taking turns selecting activities. This enhances accountability, assures that everyone is included and encourages variety and creativity.






Respect Hot Weather


Summer in many locations means hot weather. Physical activity in the heat requires plenty of hydration and vigilant observation for signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke. Both of these conditions are extremely dangerous. Make sure you always have water with you during outdoor exercise, and stop to rest when needed. Wear breathable clothing, and remember to use sunscreen.

HOTTEST MIXTAPE OUT!!!!

http://niothagift.com/ 

Check out one of my favorite rappers coming out of the BAY AREA (richmond,ca)... Download his free mixtape available now and check out his album on iTunes!!!


-BEAUTYMARK APPROVED!!!!
http://niothagift.com/

Ive Missed you All!!!

Hiiiii Beautiful people..... Im back!!! Just letting you all know I will officially be catering to my beauty mark magazine again!!! I totally apologize for neglecting all of you! But i am better prepared to make everything bigger, better and a lot more entertaining!!! YES!!! So spread the word and let it be known that BEAUTY MARK MAGAZINE is baccccck!! :) xoxoxo
-Dominique

A note from the Editor!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! Well Im a few months late but hey give me a break! Im back. Im ready to blast the already moving year off with amazing articles, great conversations, and some of my most personal thoughts. (yes personal thoughts) I would first like to apologize to my faithful beautymark fans for neglecting you all like I have. I am so happy those of you enjoy the articles and im so blessed to be able to reach out to each and every one of you! Ok the mushy part is over! How are you doing??? Im great. 2010 has been so good to me already. I recently visited my bestfriend in New Orleans for Mardi Gras with my brother...and all I can say is PURE INSANITY! lol (you must go to experience it for yourself)...ohh and this past weekend my other bestfriend planned an overnight trip to VEGAS at 12pm on saturday...and we boarded at 540pm...talk about SPONTANEOUS! Yes 2010 for me is all about traveling! Between school, church, and the gym...(sigh) life seems to be moving at a rather cool pace. Lets not forget the great guy that Im beginning to really like (sorry no details therelol) anyways on a much serious note. I would like to address both HAITI and CHILE ...I am saddened by the losts and destruction for both countries. I know that in time the cities will be rebuilt and the pain that you all experienced will be blinded by the joy that will once again fill your hearts. I ask GOD to cover you all and I hope that all the help that is given will reach you ALL in good faith...(Remember helping others will not only make you feel better you will touch someone's life in a remarkable way).
Well folks I wish you all the joy, success, laughter, love and blessings this year! Stay positive. Love yourself. And always remember youre a wonderful person and your beauty is leaving a mark on the world ;-)

xoxo
Dominique

P.S. Make sure you check out all the 1 man's Perspectives by Raymar! (Ladies and Fellas it is a must read)!!!!

JERSEYS HOTTEST RAPPER: BROADWAY BLAKE

Myspace has a way of connecting people. Receiving a friend request from a rap artist by the name of BROADWAY BLAKE with Uh'O entertainment...I was interested in checking out his music. This rapper with the signature smirk was EXTREMELY talented. I became an INSTANT fan of his songs! I would find myself constantly repeating the chorus or trying to figure out some of his complex lyrics. We became bicoastal friends...His music portrays his life and what he has experienced. That's real. That's the music that I enjoy. The interview below gives all of us some insight on this rising New Jersey rapper.

How old were you when you first realized that you wanted to be a rapper? What was your motivation and inspiration to do so.
I was about 16 when I realized I wanted to take it serious but of course I tried it when I was younger than that(laughs) I think everybody has tried to rap at some point in their life. Just being inspired by dreams and other artist from the area made me wanna purse it more

What is a typical booth session for Broadway Blake? Freestyle, written?
My sessions are usually a lil crazy but a lot of work gets done. Depending on the beat and the type of vibe I get from it usually determines if Im gonna write to it or just vibe to it right there on the spot and lay it down. When the whole team there with me, we just bug out come up wit concepts and idea…Oh yeah, u might find some grey goose bottles and red bull cans laying around but don’t tell nobody(laughs)

Considering that the Media projects most East Coast rappers as cocky, arrogant.,etc. Do you fit this mold? How are you able to seperate yourself lyrically?
Off the mic, I’m probably one of the most humble rappers you’ll come across. I’ve always been taught to be humble and always say thank you(laughs) But when I’m on that mic and the record button is on, I talk that talk. You gotta be confident because you want people to believe what you’re telling them and if you don’t do it with confidence you’re message wont get heard. As far as separating myself lyrically, I like to describe my music as the cool side of the hood. It’s not too hard, not too pop, just straight down the middle. Most artist come from similar backgrounds so the stories are similar but im able to talk to you about the same things without exploiting it.

Where does the motto "I just wanna be your favorite rapper" come from? What does that mean to you?
(laughs) Honestly it started just as a slogan, like “I Just Wanna Be Ya Favorite Rapper”… but it started to stick and people who never heard my music but heard the slogan were calling me their favorite rapper. So I said instead of me tryna be the greatest rapper, how bout I just be everybody favorite rapper. And the more it started to stick the more I began to focus on becoming everybody's favorite rapper. So now I where it on my chest(laughs) anyone who knows me personally knows how serious I take that. I feel like If I’m ya favorite rapper then you have a different attachment to me as a fan and it becomes bigger than the music like you actually wanna see how far I can take my career past the music.

What would be one of your favorite songs youve ever written? Why?
One of my favorite song I’ve ever written would probably be “I Need A Beat”. I was at that point as an artist where I felt like people weren’t taking notice of what I was bringing to the table as an artist. I think I was working on the 3rd installment of my mixtape series “If Not Me Then Who?” and I was getting tired of using beats that had already been used by established artist(s) . So I tried hooking up with local producers but nobody was coming with the sound that I felt like I needed to fit what I was tryna do. So I was like f*ck it(laughs) Im gonna write a song with no beat talking about I need a beat and I’m gonna perform it everywhere. And the first show I performed it everybody was just standing and clapping at the end of the performance. Definitely one of the greatest moments I had on the grind.

If you could describe your upcoming project in one word, what would that be?
Broadway! (laughs)

Link to the lead single- "You Heard About Me"http://www.zshare.net/audio/630800018951768b/
contact info- broadwayblakemusic@yahoo.com www.broadwayblake.blogspot.com

1 Man’s Perspective: The Prettiest Girl in the Room

By Raymar

So I remember in High School...I used to want the prettiest girl in my class, in the school, and not to toot my own horn but for the most part I got her most of the time. Different hues of brown, chicks with olive skin, cinnamon tones, whatever the case may be I was prideful when talking to the girl that would make your head turn. Just being honest. I don’t think it is good to be known as being the Prettiest Girl in my room, of course I’m shallow to a certain extent, I love a pretty smile, soft eyes and a warm smile that is on top of a nice body. So what! But now I’m a little older and I’ve had my share and seen many pretty girls, they are almost interchangeable.

So this isn’t to say that I don’t want a pretty girl..No not at all, I just want females in general to know that gravity will catch up with you. Trust me I’ve seen it. Just because that smile is bright now doesn’t mean it always be as bright,...Just because you got a tight body, doesn’t mean it will always be tight. To keep a "Real Man" which all of you claim to want; you need more than some fly heels, a nice, dress, and cleavage. I think that’s what sets most chicks apart..(I use chicks because I don’t know your names), you can’t skate by on your good looks forever. It will get you out of situations with women and men, young and old but that’s because we are all shallow, but if you really want to keep him interested you need to bring some other things to the table. Smart, genuine, honesty, humor, integrity, stable, compassionate, exciting…some of these qualities the "UGLY GIRLS", yes ugly girls have, and that’s where they make up for their short comings. They may not be much at first glance but after a while a chick that you may not think looks as good has a tendency to work a certain charm and find a spot in your mind. And I don’t care what you say…isn’t that what every girl is looking for..A spot in the mind of the person they hope to have, the heart is easy to get into, in my opinion. In other words, to have true staying power you need to be able to get into their mind. So before you run out and get mad as your reading just take into consideration these points.

1. 
   Pretty Girls” can be hoes, smuts, bops, and whatever else you don’t like to be called after a guy disregards you
2. If you are charming and smart and have integrity you will last. When your looks fade and body isn’t looking the same
3. Of course it’s nice to take advantage of your physical attributes but a “Real Man” which you all are looking for will see right thru it and put you in the “Can’t be trusted”
4. Just because your pretty doesn’t mean you can’t be replaced by another pretty girl..They are a DIME A DOZEN
5. Be offended if the first thing out of a guys mouth when you say “What do you like about me?” and he says you look good in the top 3 things he describes
6. It’s your job to get yourself out of the pretty girl catergory.YOU ARE WHAT YOU SAY YOU ARE

Not to say that I don’t have eyes but, eye sight fades and you don’t want someone to have to put on glasses to realize what kind of person you are. Pretty girls are nice, they are great when you are young..But since all these girls are running around talking real man this real man that..Give me a little bit more. That is all. You have been put on notice. Thanks for reading.

Signs He's Over You.... 1 Man's Perspective by Raymar

This is a question that was posed to me by a friend. Now I’m a guy so I pretty much know exactly when we (GUYS) are over a certain lady. Now of course there are times in a relationship where both parties may be tired of the other and need a bit of space..but when it’s over ladies it’s over!!! Trust me. So here are a few signs it’s over. And look DON’T FRONT LIKE YOU NEVER TRIED TO HANG ON TO SOMETHING THAT WASN’T WORKING, AND ARE COMPROMISING JUST TO GET BACK TO HOW IT USED TO BE

1. He isn’t trying to impress you anymore: as a rule of thumb when we aren’t trying anymore it’s a wrap
2. When you call him he isn’t excited. AT all, and he shrugs you offNo matter how much you say you miss him..his reply is…”I miss you too”, with no indication of when he will make time to see you
3. He only texts you just so that you don’t complain. “Why don’t you ever text me anymore”. Easy answer. HE’S NOT THINKING ABOUT YOU
4. You no longer get those good morning or good night text
5. He isn’t trying to have sex with you anymore..And if he is, it’s just cuz it’s convenient: YES THAT MAKES YOU A BOOTYCALL NOW
6. If he doesn’t answer the phone.If he doesn’t pick up your phone call and he just used twitter from the mobile web or an iPhone app.lol..SORRY JUST DOESN’T WANT TO HEAR YOUR VOICE
7. If he tells you he needs space and months later he still needs it
8. If he makes excuses that he doesn’t want to see you, when he used to jump at the chance.

Look sometimes a guy will QUIT you, for various reasons, he is tired of you, you always complaining, you always have a negative outlook, you too emotional, just to name a few. Don’t play yourself, now sometimes a relationship can get saved but you gotta give it time, if you don’t you will get dogged and he will just regard you as a chick who he used to be into. And you’ll be put into the category of the NO COMEBACK. Trust me I KNOW.

Fitness??...Grrr! Well Not anymore...Check out these tips.

Fall is here...We all should find time to get our blood flowing and hearts pumping! Being healthy is in! There are so many DVDs, health club promos, equipment (we will probably never use) out there that it tends to get a bit overwhelming.Fitness does not always have to be boring, exhausting and how can I say "ANNOYING"..I was always told find something you love/like and turn that into a calorie burning activity! I'm not an outdoorsy person but gardening is a workout in itself!! Try raking huge mounds of leave...or finding fall veggies/plants and dig up dirt and work the soil... May not seem like a big deal but incorporating 30 minutes a day/week I can burn at least 800 calories. Not bad right? Well...Hopefully this becomes a positive outlook for you to begin the road to a healthier and more active lifestyle!!

• Go outside!!! Work in the garden or mow the grass. Rake leaves, prune, dig and pick up trash.
• Short walk before breakfast/dinner! Just start off with a 5 minute walk..but try to build up your stamina by walking 30minutes or more!
• Instead of driving to the store..try riding your bike or walking! Saves money and its better for you!
• Sit up instead of lying on the sofa when watching TV,. Throw away your video remote control. Instead of asking someone to bring you a drink, get up off the couch and get it yourself.
• Try standing while on the phone.
• If you have a dog...WALK IT!
• If its up high.. STRETCH...if its down low...SQUAT!
  

One of my favorite Gospel Songs... "Never wouldve made it"

This song helps me start my day..Gives me hope and understanding. Just listen.

One Man's Perspective.....By Mr.Raymar

13 Reasons why you are still on the market....

First off let me say this is not directed for the chicks that actually want to be single. This is for the ones who front and say they “independent women” but actually want a man also. I’m gonna give you a little insight from a man's perspective into why your not Wifed up yet…cuz truth be told it’s not like there are no “Real Men” out there.

You talk to damn much: It may seem like a jerk thing to say, but really if you comment on every single thing all of the time, that can get tiring on the ear. Sometimes you should just chill keep your comments to yourself…don’t be a mute person, but just think before you speak.

The girls you hang with: No dude wants to be in a relationship with a girl who has no friends that they can at least think they can trust. If your girls are boy crazy.. Chances are he’s gonna think the same thing. Now of course “you are different and you aint a follower, and you make your own decisions”…. but I’m just telling you what it is.

You got to many guy friends: A wise woman once told me a girl who has no girl friends can’t be trusted. PERIOD.

You think you know everything: Fact is nobody is an expert on everything, if you were. ..you know you’d probably be GOD and since your not…chances are you don’t know everthing.

You think you know how to be a man: YOU DON’T KNOW HOW TO BE A MAN…YOUR NOT A MAN. I mean you can ask ME that you respect what to expect in certain situations but for the most part listening to women that are hella single about what a relationship and a real man is sounds stupid right?..cuz obviously they don’t know as much as they are telling you. * Matriarch families are the exception, and Grandma’s…but listening to your girl friends aren’t.

You are too money hungry: Do you actually think that dudes don’t have money?…cuz we do. We just don’t like to spend it on money hungry females. If your only reason for not liking a guy is cuz he cant by you expensive stuff…it’s not him…it’s you. If he isn’t making 6 figures chill…you not either.lol.

You in love with gangsters: Dudes that are in and outta of jail..really..that’s cute ladies. You want a man that can handle you blah-blah-blah, for a logical thinking guy..he’s gonna know you love drama.

DRAMA/Negative Attitude: When is it ever gonna be just chill or a time when are you not stressing, is there ever gonna be a day when you don’t wanna curse someone out..geez after awhile it just makes you look really childish when you always in drama…and it’s bad for your blood pressure, and your skin.

Independent Woman syndrome: you act like you don’t need us at all. If that’s true then you can’t complain when your covers aren’t, keeping you warm. Now I respect your hustle and all…Bottom line is he needs to feel important and if your always tolking about what you don’t need from a man..then what you need us for???

You gave it up: You gave it up hella easy..and then think we want to wife you?? umm…big mistake…we got you already, what do we have to prove. I’m not saying to use sex as a weapon, I’m just saying be smarter about what your gonna do, and how you gonna do it.

You messy: You always talking about somebody actin’ like you haven’t don it yourself.

You think you…are that FLY: your not… now of course you can’t think about not being the flyest in the room that’s understood, but you think that you are the most attractive chick in the world..stop it…your walking a thin line. As guys we love confidence but when you stuck up…we don’t like it…just know that someone out there is able to do what you do…literally it’s not rocket science, there is always someone out there that can take your spot.

You don’t support him: If your guy has big dreams, support him! However stupid they may seem to you it’s his life. Its something he wants to do, now I’m not saying let him sit at home and not work and be a bum but if he need a boost give it to him. Just believe in him it’ll mean a whole lot. That’s the kind of stuff that makes us brag about how good our girl is.

PLEASE READ: If your offended then that means you do some of these things on the list..and if you think you don’t do any of the things on the list … your lying to yourself. I’ve done my research trust me. If you’re lying to yourself that’s probably the biggest reason, think about it.

Hair...and how race comes into play.

This happens to be a very HOT topic in the media today..well in my case the (TWITTER) world. The craze has ignited from Solange Knowles (AKA BEYONCE'S LIL SIS) cutting her hair. Now Solange has made her statement on twitter..very humbly saying she no longer wants to be a victim of her hair. After reading the millions of blogs, and responses I decided to give my own opinion on the matter.

(Solange's "new do")

Black women for centuries have battled back and forth about whether to keep it natural, locked, braided, weaved (sew in human hair), pressed (using a hot comb which is heated on the stove top), and the most common of them all; relaxed (a process where a heavy based cream is applied to the hair and left on for at least 30minutes to STRAIGHTEN and change the texture of the hair).

Though these may seem very harsh to a person that has not tried these different treatments..but for some Black women it is a way of life for them. Whatever side you may opt to take or whatever opinion you may have...First and foremost, "Its not your hair"! I would look completely dumb to tell a friend "girl don't perm your hair stick to your roots"...First of all who am I to pass judgement on anyone? And being "black" is not about how nappy your hair is, or how overly processed it is, or not how long your hair bought hair is...Being BLACK is about identifying with your past, remembering the struggle, and focusing on the future and building bridges with PEOPLE. Like it is often said...I am HUMAN first..And black second. Only one race..the human race...Lets break down these claustrophobic barriers that we have grown accustomed to and lets set forth a precedent that "hair" does not define me as a person..it just adds to the beauty that GOD blessed us with.

One Man's Perspective.....by Mr.Raymar

For most guys and girls the question that seems to always present itself would be: "What are we?" or “How would you introduce me to your friends?” Well, I have broken it down into 3 answers:
1. Dating: Alright now when youre just dating, you have options; you can go out with whoever you want (when you want to) and not have to answer the phone. This is the purest form of playing the field...you enjoy spending time with the other person but that's all it will ever be (a night out every once in awhile). This is what most people are scared to do because guy will be perceived as a player and a girl, just “out there”. Personally I don’t think there is anything wrong taking your time, meeting new people and with figuring out exactly what you want.
2. Talking: To me this means you two aren't dating anymore an are moving toward something exclusive, you kind of have to be careful! Of course you will want to do all the cute stuff (i.e, late night calls and all of that stuff)...NOTE: but you gotta chill with the "I miss you" and "Im thinking about you" text. If youre saying it just cuz you know that's what they want to hear or youre trying to creep over late night (fine)...but after awhile people start to latch on to those calls and text and when you take them away cuz you start "dating" another girl or guy the other person will feel lost. The most important thing is dont take the spot of a boyfriend if youre not ready to.
3. Exclusive: If youre committed to someone (it is what it is). If you go for a night out you should not be "scouting for the extras on the side" cuz if you are you playing yaself, which leads to lies and the other games we play when we want the best of both worlds. And yes, that person is allowed to ask you certain questions like "where you going?” "What are you doing tonight?" and you kind of gotta answer...so if you not ready to answer those questions..you shouldn't be exclusive.
Basically, we lie to ourselves to protect our feelings. If youre feeling the other person that's fine you don't have to prove it by being exclusive, or string them along just so you have something to come home to, the fall back girl/guy who you know will answer ..Just chill..before you make a decision. The most important thing is don’t act like a girlfriend or boyfriend just because you don’t want to look bad.. You can say NO; at least then they will know where you stand. If you don’t want it don’t take it cuz you can’t just put it back..Just think about it.
*If you having sex with more than one person, although its your business, if your decent you will let the other people know..just be safe..people flip when they think they the only one and you have lead them to believe just that the whole time.

Boyfrient #2??? Yeah right.

What exactly is “Boyfriend #2”?.well my definition is a distraction from the relationship that you probably don’t want to be in anyway. And here is why…

The #2 gets all of the perks that the first boyfriend should get, he doesn’t have to do much.. by the time you call him, all he needs to know is what time you want him to meet up..and ladies FYI that makes YOU the JUMPOFF!!!!

Your actual boyfriend is gonna end up figuring out something is wrong eventually, you might slip up and do something that’s NEW and he’ll be like WHOA, where did she learn that?
With all that energy that you have used hiding and keeping secrets from everyone, you could have probably made your relationship work with you actual boyfriend which happens to be kind of ironic.

Boyfriend #2 will begin to talk mess about your actual dude, and at first you will laugh it off but then you will get defensive..but the better question is..Why should he care what you think, you are the JUMPOFF!

Oh and another FYI: you don’t have control over the situation! you’ll probably get disrespected by your #2 because thats what typically happens to JUMPOFFS!

If you keep up the whole boyfriend #2 thing and keep letting a few dudes get the goods eventually you’ll be flying to New York and will be on Maury, and be “100% sure” he is the father, and if you are an INDEPENDENT WOMAN, or whatever it is that yall females claim to be..To us dudes that’s not a good look.

Now of course it goes both ways but as guys we know that if youre willing to have someone on the side your always gonna be in that position. As a female, you gotta figure out why youre with someone.. if you want to go out and date around that is fine..more power to you, but usually when the Boyfriend #1 and Boyfriend #2 meet or something of that caliber it’s all bad.. Remember the BEAUTYSHOP BRAWL THAT WAS ON CNN FROM OAKLAND, that goes both ways..but thats just my take on it. As long as your honest about who you are and what youre doing you’ll figure it out.

Easy Make Up Tips!!!!

Ladies.Ladies. Ladies. Its no longer taboo to wear make up...I personally am a fan of a long list of cosmetics ranging from the cheap ninety-nine cent products to a DIOR blush for sixty five dollars..(yes make up can break your pockets) lol...Do I need it? No. The question is: Do I like it? YES! Im all about finding ways to enhance already what is... BEAUTIFUL! Theres no need to be scared of the countless counters in department stores and aisles full of makeup you have no idea how to use.. As longer as you PRACTICE and learn the proper TECHNIQUE you will have it down in no time! From a nude lip to dramatic eyes for a dinner party these rather simple tips should help along your journey.

LOVEY DOVEY (KISS KISS KISS)

1. Pick the right shade please ladies!!! What most of us do: Swipe a possible new color on the back of our hand to see if it flatters. A better idea, Test the lipstick on your fingertip — that way, you can hold the color next to your face to see how it looks. (No mirror? Your finger is still a better gauge, since it's similar in color and texture to your lips.)

2. Get buff.For the prettiest finish, run your toothbrush over your lips to exfoliate any dry skin (a damp paper towel also can do the job). Post-scrub, lipstick will glide on without caking.

4. Extend the life of your lipstick. So you'd like your color to last through lunch, but you don't like the feel of long-wearing formulas? Apply a coat of regular lipstick, then press it with a single-ply tissue and powder lightly (over the tissue) with a puff or brush. This sets the color and prevents running and feathering.

BEAUTIFUL EYES!

1. Fight those droopy (not so sexy eyes)!!!Lightly shade the area just above the arch of your brow with a nude or white liner and blend! This will light up your face and create the illusion of higher brows and lids, which is great for droopy or tired eyes.

2. Smudge-proof your liner.Apply it with a pencil or a tiny brush, then trace over the line with a matching powder shadow. To make it last even longer: Wet your shadow brush with Visine first.

3. Make your eyes look larger.Place a lash curler at the roots of your lashes, then slowly "walk" it out to the tips, pressing as you go...Make sure

4. Outsmart your mascara. Love the waterproof kind but hate wrestling to remove it? Apply a coat of regular mascara first, the waterproof.

5. Widen your eyes.To look more refreshed, use white or nude eyeliner — but this time, below your eyes, not above. Pull down gently on your undereye and trace the line between the lower lashes and the inside rim. Stop before you reach your tear ducts.

KEEP THAT SKIN LOOKING FLAWLESS!!!

1. Conceal flaws....A full face of foundation, too much concealer,can look and feel unnatural. Use cover-up only where you need it (and, where you don't, letting your own skin shine through). Blend.

2. Try a soft touch.Your ring finger is the perfect tool for applying makeup! The more powerful index finger may apply color too boldly or tug too much on skin.

3. Look luminous.Every face has natural shadows, and you'll look better if you brighten them. To find the shady spots; just smile at yourself in the mirror. You should be able to see all of the darker areas — like your Cupid's bow, under the bottom lip and around the inner corners of your eyes. To lighten, dab on nude eye shadow. Blend if necessary.

4. Give yourself a mini face-lift!!! (for the BeautyMark "matured")Apply blush starting at your upper cheekbone (at the hairline near your ear) then brush across your cheek horizontally — not diagonally or downward — until you get to the center of your face. When your blush is darker at your hairline you appear to look younger!!!

I LOVE MY TAN...2009 MUST READ!

TAN....TAN...I LOVE MY TAN! This book should be one of your must reads for 2009...An instant page turner! I am currently reading the book and Im so impressed! The book sheds light on a rather gloomy topic. TAN which she poetically describes as a "tryflin ass nigga". Harsh in language as it can be perceived. But the idea of comparing men to a "tan"...is genious! Honey T clearly is not male bashing and she happens to voice this clearly all throughout the book. This book is very much important in Urban communities but as she mentions a TAN is any guy, color, race, etc. I can only imagine how many women after reading this will begin to make changes in their lives for the better. As you read you will recoginze the stages of different "tans" and how to recognize them and avoid getting "burned" this is a wonderful way to exhibit an unique fashion of uplifting and impowering women!

BEAUTY MARK: Where did the Concept I love my tan come from?

HONEY T: "I Love My TAN" came from my friends and I being in and out of bad relationships. I was tired of hearing the same stuff over and over from different people. I started noticing a trend and I was just like "Oh my God, niggas are so tryflin". Me and a good friend of mine, started a group called T.N.A which stands for "Tryfe Niggas Anonymous" and it's for young women who are addicted to Tryflin Ass Niggas. I'm lazy so I decided to shorten that to TANs. Next thing I know, I got helluva my potnas talkin about "My TAN this or my TAN that" it was great. I knew right then I had started something so I decided to start the book.

BEAUTYMARK: What would be your favorite chapter in the book? why?

HONEY T: My favorite chapter would probably be "Aloe Vera Cooling Gel" because I talk about how to deal with TANs and how to heal after you've been "sun burned". I think this chapter offers some valuable advice and it can really help women, especially the way that I write. I'm really honest and straight to the point...but I'm not an asshole with it. My book and that chapter specifically is like talking to your home girl....ya know?

BEAUTYMARK: If you could tell an aspiring writer one thing ; one piece of advice, what would it be and why?

HONEYT: Maaaaan all my potnas want to be writers now lol and I'm tellin all of them to DO IT! Don't let NOBODY hold you back...stay focused (REALLY FOCUSED) and just DO IT. Knowing that what you say has a chance to get heard by 100's to 1000's to MILLIONS of people...is a great feeling.

BEAUTYMARK: For all your readers, Will there be another book in the works?

HONEY T: I have a couple more books that I'm working on, as soon as I get all the promotion and marketing done for this one. My next projects are "TAN Tales" which is an anthology of stories from "Tan Victims". I also have "TAN No More" which is going to be an anthology of men who are no longer TANs. I'm going for a series lol.

H0NEY T.- PUNANY C0RRESP0NDENT!

F0LL0W ME @ www.twitter.com/honeytaylor

CHECK 0UT MY B00K SiTE @ http://www.ilovemytan.com/

ADD me on myspace and read excerpts from ILOVEMYTAN www.myspace.com/ilovemytan09

It's a man's world....

1 Man’s Perspective:

-Raymar

This is for all of the females out there. If you are offended you are being called a female don’t, I don’t know your name, but I digress. So you want a guy to commit or at least take you more serious and try to be more exclusive..this is what you don’t do!
Don’t play the, I want to see how far I can push him role. Example: He asks what did you do today? You respond with talking about all of the guys that try to talk to you. It’s never a good look, we already know you hot, that’s why we want to talk to you duh..you making us know that is just irritating and kind of rude. If you want attention ask for it, say you wanna go on a date. It works better that way.

Don’t lie about dumb stuff, save the good lies for something else. What I mean is, if you went out with another dude don’t say you were out with friends, or you were just chilling…to us the word “friends” is another way of saying you were with another dude, because when you hang out with all of you other girl”friends” you use their name, we not dumb..be consistent if your gonna talk to other dudes, just be honest.

Making us jealous…it can have two affects none of which are good. One it can make us actually jealous, possessive, paranoid. At first you might think we are being what you want until, we asking to many questions you can’t have it both ways. The other way it works out is, sometimes we will just be like..”Fuck it, I’m out you not that hot.”
Don’t go M.I.A., after you have a deep conversation on the phone, or in person, as in, don’t say “Where do you see us?” or “ How do you feel about me?” then we tell you how we feel and all of a sudden you think it’s a good time to take some “ME TIME”, if you want to take that whole “ME TIME” thing, just say hey I need a little time to think..it makes it a lot easier once you decide to come back. By the time you come back from that, whole thought process we’re mad, and all the trust or openness we were beginning to let you in on, goes away. And you gotta do it all over again.
Keep the Drama to a minimum, tell your girlfriends about that, unless it has something to do with our relationship, most of the time it comes off as you being messy, and you can’t keep your mouth shut. That makes us really not want to be involved, if there is ALWAYS something wrong, the problem is you..not your friends, or everyone else.
Confidence is a must, if you feel as if your not the best thing out there, then why would we want to be with you..although there is a thin line of being confident and being conceited sometimes you gotta walk it.

Touching our stuff, try not to touch our stuff, as in phones, computers. Don’t go through our stuff, we have a tough enough time hiding our secret lives anyway. No but seriously, it show’s you hella insecure, if we don’t give you a reason, just don’t look for one.

Making us pay for that other guy that played you. We don’t always do the right thing, but if you always penalize us for something that reminds you of your ex-dude, i.e. he used to do this or that…it get’s old fast. We can only take so much. If you want to give it a chance keep him out of it. We know it takes time to get over stuff but try harder or just let it go, and if you not ready..it’s okay.

Giving it up to soon. Everything happens in its own time, if you think we will like you more cuz you give it up, we will for a few months but then after that runs out and we get tired of it, and look somewhere else, don’t use sex as a weapon and take it back after you gave it but it’s okay for us to chase a little. Trust me, it’s all good, we can play PS3 or XBOX while we wait, and don’t assume cuz you not giving it up we trying to get it from someone else.
Don’t accuse without proof. If you can’t prove it, just leave it alone, it’ll come out sooner or later.

NEW MUSIC OF THE MONTH presents: FLYYY OF AFG

Hiphop is an everchanging market constantly inspiring those with a dream of one day becoming the next Tupac or B.I.G. In San Francisco, California a young man with a bright future tells stories through his music. Songs that can be enjoyed by the young teeny bopper to a middle aged man who appreciates a good beat and great verses.

I present to you: FLYYY

http://www.zshare.net/audio/60957244a5e09b66/
BEAUTYMARK: Who/What inspires you musically?

FLYYY: Quality artist and music inspire me, successful musician show inspire ideas and captivate my mind! If I had to pick an inspirational person it probably b my pops (who has nuthin to do with music)

BEAUTYMARK: What seperates you from some of the artist in the mainstream media? Artist of your generation, perhaps...

FLYYY: I think the only thing dat seperates any artist is their music, how many units they sale, and what type of swagger they carry. Although, i feel what seperates me from local/ mainstaream cats is my versatility i have not one single lane when it comes to a topic(s) or any one subject in hip hop

BEAUTYMARK: What is your favorite song off your current project? Why?

FLYYY: I haven't created an album yet, my favorite track off my upcoming project ["SFO: Flyyyport"] "Imma Show" (All You Mu%$Fu&*ka$) On that track I spoke on how imma basically show any doubters that imma get to where I wanna be.

BEAUTYMARK: In one word, how would you describe your music?

FLYYY: "Whoa"


Please Contact FLYYY at www.myspace.com/iflizi or www.twitter.com/iflizi http://www.zshare.net/audio/60957244a5e09b66/

A MALES PERSPECTIVE...

12 things that Women do that we hate!

1. When you blow up our phone for no reason at all, granted we like that you call, but clearly we busy doing something…we got caller ID remember, then when we do call you, all you want to do is ask us what we are doing. Tip: Next Time just send a text!!!




2. When we ask you what you want to eat, and you give us the "it doesn’t matter face" and tell us you don’t have a taste for anything, then as we pull up somewhere you say “ I don’t want to eat here”




3. When you try to have a conversation on the phone when you know we out with the homies.. c’mon Yo, it’s a lose, lose for us. If we hang up you think we acting funny and if we start the conversation we gonna have to get off the phone anyway cuz we with the homies, which leads to us getting off the phone anyway. It’s just a viscous cycle.
   




4. When you act like you don’t ever have any money. But you got a job.




5. When you ask us, how many girls that we’ve had sex with.




6. When you look at our phone when we get a text or a missed call, they not calling for you, they are calling my phone. Chill!




7. when you call us at work and ask us what we are doing….duh we at work!



8. When you kiss us with lip gloss, lip glass whatever and actually think we like that sticky stuff on our lips.smh!!!
   



9. When you hit us up/ or come over during booty call times. 11pm-3am, and don’t actually give it up. Listen if you call us during this time..Most of the time you know the deal, don’t talk about how your day was..Do that from 6-9 please
   



10. When you ask what we think, knowing that you just want us to agree with you. Just say don’t you agree and give us the look it saves a lot of time. Trust
    



11. When you say “ I’ve never done that before”..as guys we have heard that before..So just a tip, we gonna assume that you’ve done it 3 times regardless. Haha
    
    



12. When we tell you that your pretty, beautiful, wonderful, fine..And you like cool, but then when someone else tells you, all of a sudden it’s a wonderful compliment, Note to Females: we don’t have to say it, so when we do, it’s a compliment

Eating Right on a Budget!

Satisfy your hunger without going broke!

CURRY CITRUS CHICKEN

SERVINGS: 2
CATEGORY: Lower Fat
METHOD: Microwave
TIME: Prep/Total Time: 20 min.
Ingredients:
4 boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 1 pound)
2 tablespoons finely chopped onion
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons orange juice
2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon curry powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon poultry seasoning
1-1/2 teaspoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon water
Directions: Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish coated with cooking spray. Combine the onion, juices, soy sauce, curry powder, cumin and poultry seasoning; pour over chicken. Cover and microwave on high for 3 minutes; turn chicken over. Cover and microwave 2-4 minutes longer or until chicken is no longer pink and a meat thermometer reads 180°. Remove chicken and let stand for 1-2 minutes. Combine cornstarch and water until smooth; stir into cooking juices. Microwave, uncovered, on high for 1 to 1-1/2 minutes or until thickened, stirring every 30 seconds. Serve with chicken. Yield: 2 servings.

MEXICAN STIR FRY

SERVINGS: 2-4
CATEGORY: Main Dish
METHOD:
TIME: Prep/Total Time: 20 min.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup chopped onion
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 teaspoons canola oil
1/2 cup finely chopped green pepper
1/2 cup finely chopped sweet red pepper
2 tablespoons minced jalapeno pepper
3/4 cup water
1/2 cup tomato puree
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon chicken bouillon granules
1/4 teaspoon salt
Pinch cayenne pepper
1-1/3 cups diced cooked chicken
2/3 cup canned kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup cooked rice
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Directions: In a large skillet, saute onion and garlic in oil for 3 minutes or until crisp-tender. Add peppers; saute until crisp-tender, about 2 minutes. Stir in the water, tomato puree, chili powder, bouillon, salt an cayenne; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 5 minutes. Add chicken, beans and rice; heat through. Sprinkle with cheese. Yield: 2-4 servings.

HI THERE!!!!

This is the beginning of the world of Beauty Mark Magazine