Category: Lifestyle Tips

Beauty /

Reality Star Destiny Payton Selected As Newest Ambassador for Atlanta Fibroid Center 

According to the National Institutes of Health, up to 80% of women will have uterine fibroids before reaching the age of 50, with an even larger percentage in African American women. Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) pioneer Dr. John Lipman, MD, FSIR, is continuing to lead the charge in educating women about non-surgical treatment options for fibroids by signing Serial Entrepreneur, Singer, and Love and Marriage: Huntsville cast member Destiny Payton as an ambassador for the Atlanta Fibroid Center. As an ambassador, Destiny will publicly speak regarding her personal journey with fibroids and increase the awareness of nonsurgical treatment options like UFE. Dr. Lipman and Destiny initially met in 2022 while attending Cynthia Bailey’s4th Annual Fibroid Awareness Brunch, where Destiny became inspired to speak transparently on her personal struggle with fibroids and infertility. Cynthia Bailey found her fibroid relief with UFE with Dr. Lipman which was chronicled on Season 6 of Real Housewives of Atlanta.

“I’m so excited about this journey. I’ve been speaking with so many women who are in need of this information.” – Destiny Payton

Destiny is one of many African American women who suffered from uterine fibroids and was told by a previous doctor that a hysterectomy was her best option for treatment. Destiny understood that hysterectomy was a permanent solution, but losing her uterus was too big a price to pay; even if she didn’t have a child. Fortunately, she held out and was blessed with a son (who’s now 2 years old). “The doctor told me a hysterectomy was my best treatment option, and I just did not believe that. It felt like a fear tactic”, says Destiny.

“Numerous studies have shown that most women suffering with uterine fibroids will be given only the surgical options and not told about UFE”, says Dr. Lipman. “The uterus provides many other important functions outside of childbearing. Women should not have to lose their uterus in order to successfully treat a benign condition (fibroids). Women are entitled to know all of their options and not just the surgical ones.” Dr. Lipman speaks from over 30 years of experience, as the Founder and Medical Director of the Atlanta Fibroid Center, a state-of-the-art medical facility specializing in the non-surgical treatment of uterine fibroids. To date, Dr. Lipman has performed close to 10,000 uterine fibroid embolization procedures (UFEs), making him the world’s most experienced UFE physician. With Destiny on board, it is hoped that awareness for the UFE procedure and its accessibility will be enhanced greatly.

Dr. Lipman and Destiny have created ‘Dear Destiny’, a weekly Instagram livestream where they will connect and answer questions regarding uterine fibroids and procedures available to treat them. The livestreams will premiere in Summer 2023. Additionally, Destiny is offering a giveaway for a livestream participant to receive a free consultation by Dr. Lipman at the Atlanta Fibroid Center. “Our goal is to specifically target women who do not have accessibility to medical options outside of having hysterectomies and major surgeries”, says Dr. Lipman. For more information on fibroids, the UFE procedure, and updates, visit the official Atlanta Fibroid Center website at www.ATLii.com,and by following Dr. John Lipman on Instagram @dr_lipman.

All media inquiries should be directed to PRTeam@epimediagroup.com.

Entertainment /

American Rock Legend STYX Performs At Wild Adventures Theme Park

Wild Adventures Theme Park

The Wild Adventures LIVE! concert series presented by Valdosta TKO Nissan continues Saturday, April 22 as STYX takes the stage at the Wild Adventures Amphitheater.

American rock legends and multimillion-selling group STYX have recently released their 16th studio album The Mission. Drawing from over four decades of barn-burning chart hits, joyous singalongs, and hard-driving deep cuts, STYX promises an unforgettable performance for fans of all ages. Audiences can look forward to hits such as “Lady”, “Blue Collar Man”, “Lady”, “Come Sail Away” and “Renegade” to the Wild Adventures Amphitheater stage.

The concert is scheduled for Saturday, April 22 at 8 p.m. General Admission to the concert is included free with a 2023 Season Pass, and Gold and Diamond Passholders can purchase Reserved Concert Seats for just $5 in advance. Guests who do not have a 2023 Season Pass can purchase General Admission to the concert for $10 and Reserved Concert Seats for as low as $15 as an additional cost to park admission.

Before the STYX concert, guests can enjoy a live performance from Jacksonville, Florida southern rock group Whiskey Heart at the Water’s Edge Stage from 4 to 7 p.m. “Water’s Edge Brews and Bites serves freshly baked hand-rolled pretzels, local draft beer from Georgia Beer Company and refreshing wine slushies,” said Adam Floyd, sales and marketing director. “It’s the perfect spot to relax along the lake with refreshments and live music in between thrills and splashes in the park and a world-class concert from STYX.”

Families can enjoy every Wild Adventures LIVE! concert and unlimited visits to Wild Adventures Theme Park and Splash Island Water Park all season with a 2023 Season Pass on sale now at WildAventures.com.

Wild Adventures Theme Park is located at the halfway point between Atlanta, Ga. and Orlando, Fl. off Interstate 75 and is home to more than 40 family and thrill rides, hundreds of exotic animals, dozens of concerts and special events each year and Splash Island Waterpark, named as one of the “Top 30 Waterparks” in the country by U.S. News and World Report. Wild Adventures is ranked as one of the Most Affordable Theme Parks in America by Travel + Leisure, one of the Top 10 Most Affordable Water and Theme Parks in the U.S. by AOL.com and the Top Theme Park Deal in Georgia by Yahoo! Finance.

Beauty /

5 Essential Self-Care Practices to Thrive in Your 40s

As we age, it is important to prioritize our physical and mental well-being. Self-care in our 40s is essential for leading a healthy and balanced life. Taking the time to practice self-care can have many benefits, such as improved physical health, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life. It can also help reduce stress levels, improve relationships with others, and increase productivity. By taking the time to focus on ourselves in our 40s, we can ensure that we are living our best lives for years to come.

1. Eat Healthy Foods for Optimal Health

Eating healthy is essential for optimal health, especially in your 40s. As you age, the body’s nutritional needs change and it is important to ensure that you get the right balance of nutrients from your diet. Eating a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats will help to maintain energy levels and keep your body functioning at its best. Here are some tips for making smart, healthy choices:

– Strive for variety in your diet, eating a wide variety of fruits and vegetables every day.

– Make sure that you are also getting more than the recommended minimum daily intake of fresh fruit and vegetables.

– Don’t rely on protein to make up most of your diet; it’s better to eat more whole grains high in fiber.

– Aim for at least half the amount of whole-grain food that you eat each day.

A good rule of thumb is to try and eat something made from whole grain every 3 or 4 hours during the day.

2. Create a Personalized Exercise Plan that Works Best For You

It’s never too late to start a fitness routine, especially if you’re over forty. With the right exercises and plan, you can become more physically fit and improve your overall health. But what are the best exercises for busy adults over forty? You do not have to slug it out in the gym every single day.

Make sure that whatever activity you choose, you get at least 20-40 minutes of exercising. Make it a routine and a habit in order to ensure that it helps you achieve your fitness goals. You can try activities such as swimming, biking, yoga, running, or even hiking. All of these will also help you get out in nature.

3. Get Quality Sleep Every Night

Quality sleep is essential for adults over forty to stay healthy and energized. Not getting enough sleep can lead to serious health problems, such as high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes. It also affects our mental health, causing us to feel anxious and depressed. To get quality sleep every night, it’s important for adults over forty to follow certain sleeping habits and tips that will help them get better rest each night.

Do not use any electronics at least one hour prior to when you are supposed to sleep. Use your bedroom only for sleeping and not for other activities such as work and eating food. Try to establish a bedtime routine that consists of taking a shower, doing some skincare, and reading a book in order to get in bed.

4. Get Checked Regularly

As we age, our health can start to decline. That’s why it’s so important to get regular checkups in your 40s and beyond. Getting checked regularly is key for identifying any potential health issues before they become serious and can help you stay healthy and active as you get older.

A woman’s risk for breast cancer increases with age, which is why they should get checked every 6 months.

As for men, testosterone replacement therapy and aging are directly related since testosterone levels in men decline with age. Low testosterone can lead to fatigue, depression, weight gain, and decreased libido. By getting regular checkups, you can make sure that your testosterone levels are within normal range and take action if they are not. Regular checkups also help identify other medical conditions that may be causing symptoms similar to low testosterone levels.

5. Take Time to Relax and Recharge

For adults over forty, taking the time to relax and recharge is essential for maintaining a healthy work-life balance. As we age, our bodies and minds are more prone to stress, which can lead to physical and mental health issues. To combat this, it’s important to take the time to de-stress and unwind after a stressful day. Try to take out time for yourself that is away from work and personal commitments. Strive to give yourself a break at least once a week so that you do not burn out. Try to develop some hobbies that make you happy and keep you busy.

It is important to take good care of yourself in your 40s so that you age well. Use this list to help you figure out the areas you have been lacking in to help you improve your quality of life.

Birmingham /

Le Diner en Blanc Birmingham 2022: The City’s Elegant All-White Picnic

Elegance was the word used to describe Le Diner en Blanc Birmingham 2022.  On September 17th, the magic city was engulfed with several surprises during this exclusive event!

Arrivées

Table Leaders were amazed to arrive with their assigned group at Railroad Park.  For those that don’t know, Railroad Park is located in the heart of downtown Birmingham.  It was the PERFECT location for the elegant, all-white picnic!

Additionally, guests came together underneath the stars and gathered to live music, a 360 photo booth, and an adult moon bounce.  The best surprise was the giant hot air balloon that even captured the attention of the local news station, asking, “What is happening in the city tonight?”

Le Diner En Blanc Birmingham was hosted by the event management company, Destination Birmingham, owned by Jasmine and Lynda Allen.  The dynamic team not only coordinated the entire event but manages a group of dedicated volunteers!

La Conclusion

Above all, Le Diner En Blanc Birmingham was a successful and enchanting evening for those in Alabama.

Le Dîner en Blanc Birmingham

Photo Credit: Le Dîner en Blanc

 

Le Diner en Blanc Pro-Tip (s)!

  • Register with an email account that receives messages.
  • Guests should arrive in comfortable shoes and change for photos.
  • Try not to overcomplicate the packing process; have the DEB essentials.
  • Dress according to the weather in your region.
  • Do not forget to pack your umbrella.
  • Be mindful of the beverage selections but remember that you can bring your own sodas/water.
  • Purchase your cart, chairs, wagon, and table three weeks prior to the event.
  • Do not wear off-white; this is an all-white affair.
Diner en Blanc Traditions Birmingham
Le Dîner en Blanc is an elegant large-scale picnic from Paris

Most importantly, remember that Le Diner en Blanc is what you make of it!  jusqu’à la prochaine fois

If you like this post, click here:  Le Diner en Blanc Birmingham 2021- The Magic City Sparkled #DEBBHAM

Home Decor /

Wake Up Your Sleepy Space With These Home Refresh Ideas: Style + Life + Fashion Featured

Check out the recent Redfin article we were featured in:

Whether you’ve outgrown your current decor or your new space doesn’t feel quite like home, it might be time for a refresh. And while there’s no doubt that expanding your art collection or adding new house plants can be a breath of fresh air for your home, it can be difficult to know where to begin.

Maybe you've outgrown your current decor, or you’ve just moved into a new house or apartment and it doesn’t feel quite like home yet. Either way, it might be time to refresh your space.
Wake Up Your Sleepy Space With These Home Refresh Ideas

That’s why Redfin reached out to us and other experts from Vancouver, BC all the way to Boston, for our best advice on making your home feel refreshed and elevated. So if you need a little extra guidance or you’re just looking for interior design inspiration, check out our best recommendations for refreshing your home.

Read the full article here: Wake Up Your Sleepy Space With These Home Refresh Ideas | Redfin

Beauty /

Luster Premium White’s Pearl Infused Pro Light Dental Whitening System: Unboxing Video

Luster Premium White’s Pearl Infused Pro Light Dental Whitening System works up to 7X faster than all major whitening kits! With three easy steps, you get visibly whiter teeth in just 30 minutes and 6 shades whiter in 3 days! By using both light and heat, the patented Xenon teeth whitening light is proven more effective and quicker than other teeth whitening LED light systems. Developed by dentists, this kit includes: Pro Light, Serum, Rinse, and Pearl Infused Mint Whitening Toothpaste.

Reveal your brightest smile, cleanest teeth, and happiest gums NATURALLY with GuruNanda. Their NEW dentist-recommended Oxyburst Whitening Mouthwash is a patented formula that truly does do it all – freshens breath, supports tooth and gum health, and gets teeth their brightest white, all within seconds. The cutting edge of oral care and beauty, this patented mouthwash contains two components: a proprietary blend of seven 100% pure and natural essential oils for whole mouth health and fresher breath, and oxygen-powered whitening ingredients. Together, they gently remove stains, create fresh breath, and support stronger teeth and gums. No other mouthwash whitens teeth better or faster while seamlessly integrating the natural healing of Ayurveda and state-of-the-art Western medical technology to help you reveal your most dazzling smile.

Teeth Whitening System Unboxing Video

@kwest1908

For tea & coffee lovers. ☕️ #whiteningteeth #teethwhitening #teethwhiteningkit #unboxing #unboxingvideo #birminghamalabama #fy #fyp #fypシ

♬ Elevator Music – Bohoman
Lifestyle /

Make Your Home A Sanctuary

Graduation season and Father’s Day are approaching and below are three great gift ideas that are perfect for the home:

COVE HANGER-This patented Cove Hanger (launched April 11th) was designed by Jessica Davidoff when she became a mom and her wardrobe got longer-and her closet shrank! Longer garments take up twice the space (top and bottom). Traditional hangers cause wrinkling, collection of floor dust/pet hair and can snag clothes touching the lower rack! The hanger’s ground-breaking patented top locking feature secures the bottom half of the garment-place over and through the hanger then lock-a hanger for TRAVEL too! This unisex hanger accommodates all longer garments: suites/jackets/coats, trench coats, maxi/midi dresses, kaftans, skirts, jumpsuits and wedding/evening gowns. Made of recycled plastic and has an anti-slip velvet base. There is a scented ribbon with their custom fragrance, Morgan Park-a modern take on sachet fragrance for clothes that is also available. Both products are the first of many to come from Cove! Available: https://www.createyourcove.com

THE MAGIC WEIGHTED BLANKET–This comforting weighted blanket has been fondly referred to as “the blanket that hugs you back” and is the original “OG” of weighted blankets. Invented by a father, driving his young daughter who was playing in the back when she put a “beanie baby” toy on his shoulder and it felt surprisingly very comforting. He had an epiphany-what would a whole “beanie” blanket feel like? He came home told his wife and she made a prototype in 1998! Since then, research shows that weighted blankets bring down anxiety among other benefits. Manufactured solely in the USA, comes in a variety of the softest material coupled with the glass beads sewn into the blanket make this the best blanket on the market. What a perfect gift to give to anyone who suffers from anxiety or stress? It has been shown to also comfort people with autism or who suffer from PTSD. Available: www.magicweightedblanket.com

LumiCharge II Smart(est) Lamp-Rarely does one find a functional desk lamp that is design friendly in a home office, kitchen, bedroom, study or at the office! The LumiCharge II is it! Designed by an engineer whose desk was always cluttered. Between his phone charger, lamp base, clock, he needed actual room to work! So he designed a SLEEK and SOPHISTICATED smart lamp that looks good anywhere! LumiCharge dimmable LED desk lamp features include: charging station, Qi 10W fast wireless charger, a universal phone dock, motion sensor, aesthetically pleasing for both home & office décor, full calendar display with date, time, temperature settings, dimmable display backlight, multiple brightness level (remembers last setting) and “new” UV and ANTI-MICROBIAL paint coating to reduce the growth of germs on the surface! LumiCharge also has a T2W model with a bluetooth speaker.

Birmingham /

BLOOM: FAITH, FASHION, AND BUSINESS EMPOWERMENT SERIES SPOTLIGHT: LaToya Thomas

BLOOM readers, I would like to introduce LaToya Thomas.  Realtor, Motivational Speaker, and Empowerment Coach, LaToya has BLOOMED in the Birmingham, Alabama community.

With her newly trademarked platform, Breakfast With Toy™, she imparts empowerment to those around her; making the bridge between women in entrepreneurship and female power!

BLOOM SPOTLIGHT:  LaToya Thomas

  • When you think of the word “successful,” who’s the first person who comes to mind and why?

When I think of a successful person, or the first person that comes to mind, it’s my Mother Sharon Kelley. I’ve always had a very good role model to look up to. She’s what I call pretty powerful. Ambitious. Always goal oriented and succeeding. She’s a wife of 35 years, a mother of two girls and Grandmother of two girls. She’s conquered so much in life and forever looking to grow in her purpose.

  • What is the number one way we can make a difference in our community?

I don’t know if there’s a number one way but I know change begins in the mind and at home first. As children our parents teach us about “self esteem”, confidence, gratitude, thankfulness, and most importantly God.

  • What has helped you get to where you are and what advice would you give to others on the same path?

My personal relationship with God. My parents set the foundation, the standard and my heart for God grew from there. As far as business I worked hard at my 9 to 5 and did the best I could, most of the time. Knowing life isn’t perfect and when I don’t get it right or I fail, give it another try. Continuing to grow in my Faith. And really when the time was right, God saw fit for me to get into the real estate business with my husband.

  • Do you have a specific experience where you wish you had done things differently?

I wish I had been brave enough to attend college out of state. Like Atlanta. I’m a homebody and I love it. But there’s so much more out there to witness. I know God knows my heart and knows I’m telling that young girl who had the opportunity to go anywhere, that my family would be right there when I returned home. So that’s one reason for God making me an entrepreneur. He’s giving me another shot at exploring more.  (smile) Being an entrepreneur allows me to grow in so many ways. I lost quite a bit during the pandemic, as far as business goes, but I gained an even amazing woman in myself.

  • Do you have a quote you live your life by or think of often?

I try to remember as much as I can about what the word of God says. Not verbatim but just what I need.

Follow LaToya Thomas and learn more about her platform on social media:  Facebook, Instagram, and Keller Williams website.

“EMPOWERED WOMEN, EMPOWER WOMEN!”
Lifestyle /

Influencer-Owned Lifestyle Brand, Rachel Parcell, Launches SS22 Home Collection

Lifestyle brand, Rachel Parcell, launches its RP Spring Home Collection! The whimsical collection includes a floral napkin set and table runner, wicker placemats and napkin rings, as well as precious melamine plates, bowls, and glasses that are perfect for your Easter tablescape or spring soiree.
The brand, founded by influencer Rachel Parcell, is adored by celebrities including Alessandra Ambrosio, Gabrielle Union, Eva Longoria and more, who have been spotted in Rachel Parcell’s feminine and flirty frocks. You can find the entire collection on their website here (affiliated with ShareASale 64685 and Skimlinks 85273) ranging from $58-$128.
Rachel’s journey to owning her own brand began with Rach + Drew, an online journal she made in 2010 to document her newlywed life with her husband. Rachel had intended this personal blog to be read only by friends and family, but her content soon proved appealing to her growing readership. Rachel formally changed Rach + Drew to Pink Peonies, focusing on her her personal style. Rachel was able to leverage her success as an influencer by launching a capsule clothing line in her name —all timeless, elegant, and feminine pieces, attainably priced for women all over the world. Rachel Parcell has grown into a lifestyle brand, offering not only highly crafted womenswear, but also mommy + me designs, home décor, and more.
Lifestyle /

At-home Valentine’s Day meal with The Fresh Market

The Fresh Market’s heart-shaped ribeye has returned! Many people are planning to spend Valentine’s Day at home this year, and our Premium Choice Sweetheart Ribeye is the perfect way to say “I love you” deliciously.

Hand-cut and butterflied by our expert butchers, this steak maintains its unique shape when cooked. The meat is aged a minimum of 14 days for maximum tenderness.

This limited-time specialty is available in store from February 11-14.

Is your love more of a seafood fan? Woo them with our Heart-Shaped Crab Cakes. Available February 9-14, these perfectly seasoned Maryland crab cakes are ready to cook when you pick them up.

As the holidays draw nearer, keep an eye out at your local The Fresh Market for more specialty items like our chocolate-dipped strawberries, heart-shaped desserts and show-stopping florals.