By PT

Photo . 19 y/o Jonathan Mak of Hong Kong

Today we lost a legacy builder, Steven Paul Jobs an extraordinary billionaire Buddhist.

After six (6) months of college he decided to do it his own way and follow his genius and his dreams, his way.

He created APPLE, was “let go” to create PIXAR and re-hired 12 years later to create the iMac, iPod, iPhone and IPad.

Ironically many of  us found out about his passing on one of the change agent devices he created.

“Stay Hungry, Stay Foolish” ~Steve Jobs

A man who followed his genius, followed his passion and created a GLOBAL legacy on his own terms with devices the whole world uses.  Steve Jobs FOREVER SHINES BRIGHTLY, Rest In Peace!

By PT

EasternMarket.net

This weekend I hung out with one of my college and lifetime BFF’s “O.” In between workouts and girl talk we hit a couple of flea markets in MD and DC.  I’d forgotten how much fun the search can be.  If you have the energy you can find some unique and often inexpensive treasures. Being the clutch collector I am, check out the two FAB clutches I scored.

1960's Vintage Clutch

The Danty Flip Mirror was the deal maker!

Roomy, Perfect Metallic Color, and Eco-Friendly. By Matt and Nat.

 Over a slice of cake and a glass of pinot noir, we started thinking about where and how Flea Markets begin?  There was were many theories between us, but it appears there are many theories in general about their inception.   One theory is that the Flea Market was originally termed the Fly Market and began in 18th century New York City.  That rationale makes sense; considering the entreprenuerial and capitalistic hustle of New Yorkers, but not quite the “fly” you may been thinking.

The land on which the market stood was originally a salt marsh with a brook. By the early 1800′s the “Fly Market” was the principal market in New York City.

Anyhoo, Flea Markets are Fly!  I love my new found treasures and intend to SHINE BRIGHTLY with them this Fall!

Ramadan is a Muslim fasting period that begins today, August 1 through August 30.

A month of fasting during daylight, from dawn to sunset.   Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam.   The intention is for greater patience, spirituality and humility in submission to God.  A month long prayer that aids in heightened focus, clarity and closeness to God.  Fasting during this month is often thought figuratively to burn away all sins.  Some Muslims also obstain from sexual intercourse, smoking and poor use of language at this time.

However, the practice of fasting and its fundamental principles of discipline and focus are observed by religions world-wide. (www.belief.net)  Regardless of your spiritual or religious affliation, clarity and discipline for a heighted sense of self and the God within, can certainly enhance the ability to  SHINE BRIGHTLY!  

By PT

May 5th isn’t just about guacamole, chips, carnitas, Tequilla shots and Mexican beer.  No really, it isn’t.  Cinco de Mayo is a Mexican holiday that celebrates the Mexican Army’s victory over the French in the Battle of Puebla,  May 5, 1862.  Strangely, this war helped end aid from the French to Confederates in the American Civil War.  What a celebration, eh?

Nonetheless, the restaurant and wine and spirit industry monetize Cinco de Mayo, not unlike a plethora of other commercialized holidays developed for consumer consumption, from beer to lip balm to zoo festivals.

Enjoy the festivities responsibly today, but remember the serendipitous Mexican/American relationship of Cinco de Mayo in 2011.

Shine Brightly!

Shine Beauty Culture’s month long celebration of National Poetry Month ends with a poem by 17 year old, High School Junior, Briana Jackson.  Briana’s poem was inspired by the charity work she does with her mother,         Lanitra K. Jackson, founder of Beauty-in-a-Purse (BIAP) a platform that globally promotes uplifting support by sharing resources to raise awareness for women impacted by homelessness, domestic violence, and incarceration.

The charity uplifts the spirits of women with the Power of the Purse.  Purses filled with toiletries, beauty products and inspirational literature not only provide physical beauty but it helps to give self-esteem, confidence, and an unparalleled sense of normalcy to women in their transition to greatness.

Celebrate the conclusion of Poetry Month, with this outstanding poem about the perseverance of women!

Stand In The Valley©

By Briana Jackson

Every woman possesses an aura of beauty

An atmosphere of enlightenment

A feeling of grace

Every woman has a longing for love

A yearn for affection

To fill that empty space

Every woman comes to terms with obstacles

Crossroads of confusion

Paths of defeat

But not every woman possess strength

Not every woman can get knocked down

And stand back to her feet.

GET INVOLVED!

Upcoming BIAP Summer and Fall National Events

www.beautyinapurse.org

PHONE 443-610-823

EMAIL s2e.ante.up.beauty.in.a.purse@gmail.com

By PT

Get Involved!

GO! to National April Poetry Month Events

SUPPORT! Poets

GET! The 2011 National Poetry Month Poster, designed by STEPHEN DOYLE

Doyle’s trademark of graphically embodying words to convey deeper, intelligent and provocative body of works are artistic treasures.

Winner of the National Design Award for Communication for 2010.

Doyle lives in Greenwich Village, NYC.

Happy 40th Born Day Earth Day!

By PT

If you use “go green” to sound progressively cool…GET INVOLVED!

Earth Day 2011: A Billion Acts of Green encourages people everywhere to take the time to do an act of environmental service and advocacy that will contribute to improving the quality of life for all living things on earth.

Hip Hop Caucus 350 for Earth Day - The Hip Hop Caucus’ “One Planet. One Voice.” campaign is celebrating Earth Day by honoring 350 African-American pacemakers who, through their professions, passions and service, are making the planet a better place to live.  African Americans Enriching Life On Our Planet.

Planet Green – Green tips for every day!

Earth Day Television

Treehugger.com

1970 Earth Day

Earth Day is intended to inspire awareness and appreciation for the earth’s natural environment.  Established in 1970 by Gaylord Nelson.  Today EARTH DAY is globally coordinated by Earth Day Network now in more than 171 countries.                            Real Critical Mass!

Go…Green!