Today: Barracks Row Fall Festival!

Rise. Shine. Good morning!


Source: Barracks Row Fall Festival


Today is the Barracks Row Fall Festival! Its SUCH nice Fall weather today and a good excuse to get out the house and enjoy some FREE cultured events. There's everything from tours of historic places to cook-offs. Its also a fine time to check out some of the fine dining along Barracks Row Main Street (BRMS).

Here are some of my old/new favs:

• Banana Café - The place to be for the perfect Margaritas, Sangrias and small plates.!
• Jordan's 8 - Good evening scene. Love the "backyard" patio vibe. Fully-stocked bars.
• Las Placitas - ...MORE Margaritas!
• Matchbox Vintage Pizza Bistro - Great pizza and sliders!
• Molly Malone's Capitol Hill Saloon - Cool bar scene. Great "made up" cocktails. Yummy wings.
• Ted's BULLETIN They serve breakfast ALL DAY! Also offers a "Carry out" window, should you wish to take your treats "to go".

For more information visit http://barracksrow.org/. Here are a few quick links:

• Event schedule
• Facebook
• Volunteer (or you can sign up AT the event)
• Newsletter
• Business Directory

Be sure to follow Barracks Row Main Street on Twitter for all the happenings and goings-ons. Today's hashtag is #BRfest.

Welp, I'm off to join my fellow BRMS volunteers (I'm on the "Set up Comittee").

Hope to see you there!

*Smooches&Hugs*

Perfect Picnic Party: Music. Food. Family. Friends.

Like you, I can't believe Summer is almost over! :-( I could use a few more weeks, but it was good while it lasted -- I will say that :-)

This was a pretty laid-back Summer for me. I didn't attend very many events, due to crazy-stupid work hours and I've never been big on traveling out of state (hopefully, that will change). Despite both facts, I didn't let much grass grow under my feet.

One highlight: MUSIC! Anyone who knows me knows that I enjoy and appreciate good music. I prefer "old school" (hip-hop, soul, r&b, rock), neo-soul and non-mainstream (aka "underground") and don't listen to much Top 40 local radio. I'm 31. (That's all I got.)

My family, a few friends and I frequented Fort Dupont Park's FREE Summer in the City Concert Series. (Next year, I promise to do a better job of keeping you all abreast of their goings on. *pinky swear*) This event was new-to-me, so I was extra excited. The fact that it was FREE was an added bonus. This was an opportunity to enjoy a little bit of ALL my fav genres (Kindred the Family Soul, Midnight Starr and S.O.S Band) all at once and get familiar with some opening acts that I wasn't familiar with: 'Til the Cops Come Knockin (think Barber Shop Quartet with cops instead of barbers), Kinda Blu and Be'la Dona). Gotta love that!

During our first outing, we only brought lawn chairs, blankets and bottled water. Once we got there, we were informed (thanks to the couple next to us and their Tupperware containers filled with hot food!) that you could bring your own food (just no glass bottles).

That did it!

Another highlight: FOOD! From then on, we went about planning our little Picnic Pot Luck. Deciding what to bring turned into a weekly assignment of sorts. Each week, our individual picnic baskets were full of new ideas and recipes that we've been meaning to try or had just read about.

Source: The Gadgets Page

Here are SOME of what made our picnic baskets so great:

• Adells chicken-teriyaki pineapple meatballs: (a Costco favorite) just reheat and serve
• chicken salad: served with your choice of crackers, lime nacho chips or veggie bread (courtesy of the Amish Market)
• fresh fruit: strawberries, watermelon (yellow and red), grapes (green and red), cherries, apples
• sandwiches: deli-cut meats, condiments and Hawaiian rolls
• Sushi: California Rolls, I believe (I didn't partake, but thought it was a good idea for those that did)
• S'mores: a campfire favorite of ours. They were really good...and gooey)
• Jell-O Shooters: Hel-lo!
• "Stephie's Punch": an ecclectic mix of something-something, fruit juices and lemon slices.

I am REALLY slacking on my picture-taking these days, but I snapped a few (like four) shots of what was in my picnic basket.

Great food, plenty of laughs and lots of dancing, coupled with being in the great outdoors made for some pretty memorable Saturday evenings. We're ready for next year.

Music. Food. Family. Friends.

Stay tuned for more Perfect Picnic Party posts! (I think we're onto something...)

Sidenote: 'Yogi Bear' in 3-D (Dan Aykroyd, Justin Timberlake) coming to theaters Christmas 2010!

*Smooches&Hugs*

National Wear Red Day: 2010

Dear Fam/Friends/Fellow Bloggers:

I’d like to invite you to support National Wear Red Day.

You may not know this, but the number one killer of women is heart disease. And every year more than 460,000 women die from this largely preventable disease.

National Wear Red Day is a day to recognize the women who have died from this disease, to build awareness of the statistics, and to encourage all women to make a choice to beat heart disease. This year National Wear Red Day is February 5. National Wear Red Day is for women like Theresa. As a busy mom, Theresa kept putting off a check-up, but called her doctor when she felt tired, short of breath, and started having back and chest pains. “I had a feeling that it was my heart, but all the tests were saying it wasn’t, “ Theresa said. Two months later, Theresa had a massive heart attack at a family birthday party. She was 38. You can read Theresa’s story at www.GoRedForWomen.org/stories.

As a supporter of Go Red For Women, the American Heart Association’s initiative to build awareness and raise funds towards the cause of women and heart disease, I have created a group that you can join. Support the cause by wearing red and donating $25 or more to support the science and research of the American Heart Association that benefits all women, men and children.

On behalf of women everywhere, please join me to fight and beat this deadly disease.

Donation Levels:

• $100 - Help others
• $ 75 - Beat Heart Disease
• $ 50 - Know the Facts
• $ 25 - Wear Red

If none of these fit your budget, feel free to select your own donation amount

Fair enough? Good. Now you're ready to GO RED with Team {stellar.SASSY.social}!

Team Goals:

• Recruitment = 100
• Donations = $1,000

Related articles:

• {stellar.SASSY.social} Blog
• Get 'em Girls

As always, your continued support of my efforts are GREATLY appreciated.

*Smooches&Hugs*

Happy Thanksgiving!

Have a safe & happy turkey time!

*gobble gobble*

Let's eat!

*Smooches&Hugs*

Bright Ideas: 12 Practical Holiday Gifts (2008 BLOG Redux)

(...& yes, I'm already finished my shopping. So long, suckers!)

'tis the season to wreck your brain about holiday shopping...

Not!

Keep it simple & practical. After all, our Economy so totally sucks right now & most can't afford to go "all out", like usual. I know I can't :-(

Don't fret, my pets. Just because we're in a Recession (or is it a Depression? I forget... LOL), doesn't mean that you have to sham on the holiday presents. Following are just a few cost-effective gifts that I think are great:

1. Favorite Movie & Soundtrack: You'd be surprised how many people don't have their fav movie on DVD. (idea - Add microwave popcorn, boxed candy & soda/Add tissues, if its a tear-jerker!)



2. 1-Year Magazine Subscription: I love reading magazines. At my desk, you'd think I work at a newstand, the way I have them all scattered about. My subscriptions include: 'O' The Oprah Magazine, Glamour, Cosmopolitan, Lucky, Everyday with Rachel Ray, Martha Stewart Living. With the holidays fastly approaching, some are offering "2-for-1" Savings Vouchers (online & print). Renew your subscription, while giving the other to a friend. They're good for a limited time only, so hurry!



3. Gift Card with Coupons: Who doesn't like gift cards? Who doesn't love coupons! Some say its impersonal, but I think its nice & makes sense. The person can use the gift card to purchase an item or put towards something "big". (idea - Grocery store, department store)



4. Handmade Crafts: Get creative! Spend awhile in the arts & crafts store one day. You'd be surprised at the ideas you'd come up with. (idea - This is good, even for you non-crafty types. They have do-it-yourself kits for everything)
   


5. Engraved Items: Journal, flask, keychain, frame, ink pen, jewelry, coffee mug, desk clock, cufflinks. (idea - Add new spice to an old item with a personalize message or nameplate)
   


6. Scrapbook: Great for kids & adults (idea - For children, include pictures from school, playdates, extra curricular activities, fav TV shows)
   


7. Gift Basket (misc): Instead of buying "ready made" ones from the store, you can make your own. (idea - Wanna get romantic? Include a picnic basket w/ finger foods, wine, a blanket & music)
   


8. Food/Beverage Recipes: Like Ross from Friends, I enjoy making a meal out of appetizers. Unfortunately, I don't know how to cook everything that I like to eat & don't always feel like searcing for recipes online or calling a friend. Bummer! (idea - Looking for ideas for someone that's new to the kitchen? Include a cookbook with a few ingredients for one of the more simple recipes. +Add a cute apron & set of matching potholders for good measure)
   


9. Picture Calendar: Include pictures of special moments of each month. (idea - For new parents, you can detail their pregnancy. Don't forget the funny captions)
   


10. Autographed Book(s): For the avid reader that might've missed a book signing. (idea - If time permits, have the author include a nice comment/quote or holiday wish & a photograph)
    


11. Charm "Collection" Bracelet: Purchase a charm bracelet & start with ONE charm. Each year, purchase a charm that reflects the current year (idea - each charm can reflect your relationship; past, present & future)
    


12. Charitable Donation: Make a contribution, on behalf of the recipient, for a Cause that's held dear to their heart. (idea - Support the charity that's directly involved with the issue that has touched the person's life)

When it comes to good gifts, the options are endless. Remember, its the thought that counts.

I finished my holiday shopping this Summer *gloat*, so... I hope this helps you with yours.

Good luck! :-)

*smooches&hugs*

Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month

FYI & BTW: September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.

Teal Toes is a cool organization whose mission is to raise ovarian cancer awareness.

This month, I'm urging my fellow event planners to paint the town TEAL! Paint your toes (& nails, if you'd like) TEAL & get your clients to do the same. It'll be fun & super cute... Fashionistas: this means YOU, too!

Here's a list of cool (& not-so-cool) brands that offer shades of TEAL.

You can also find Teal Toes on Facebook (fan page)!
*pssssssssssst* There's gonna be a fab-fun-fresh Teal Toes-{stellar.sassy.social} event, so stay tuned! ;-)

*Smooches&Hugs*

2009 Joint Service Open House AIR SHOW

Friday, May 15th-Sunday, May 17th



Click here for details & security information -- ESPECIALLY the security information.

I've never been. Anyone else game for going?

*Smooches&Hugs*

National Walk@Lunch Day

I saw an email about this at work & wanted to share with you guys...

Today is National Walk @ Lunch Day. For details & events, click here.

BlueCross BlueShield also offers the Walking Works program. Its a FREE site that you can use to record/set goals for yourself & track your progress. The site also include other helpful links & a discounted pedometer. I already have one. Somewhere :-/ LOL...

Anywho, I've already set a goal of walking a minimum of 30 minutes a day (whether at work, or home). The nicer the weather, the longer the walk. Once Spring has finally sprung (its been chilly lately in DC!), I'll be out & about more...

So, lace up those cute sneakers & hit the road, Jack!...

Happy trails!

*Smooches&Hugs*

'social networking' Sites

My poor little BlackBerry probably hates me :-\ I've done so much typing, that I've worn off some of the buttons! I'm CONSTANTLY checking/updating status updates, reading BLOGS/articles, uploading photos, posting comments, promoting events/products, reconnecting with old friends & meeting new business associates.

As soon as I get hip to a new social networking site, I'm asking "is there a BlackBerry app for this!?" & then there's yet another icon on my desktop. Once I've downloaded a BlackBerry app, I rarely use my PC for logging on.

Click here for a detailed list of Wikipedia's social networking sites!

<<<<<------ Check the 'SPOTTED' section for a lineup of associated 'social networking' sites!

Its so great!

BTW: Keep in touch! Look for me online. My name is 'elle denise' :-)

*Smooches&Hugs*

Morgan's Learning Center: Future Women HIV/AIDS Leaders

ONCE AGAIN, my homegirl has made the press. Bravo, babes! *applause*

Michelle Delores Morgan, Founder, Morgan's Leaning Center

Michelle Delores Morgan is the founder of Morgan's Learning Center (MLC), which mobilizes Black American communities and provides resources to AIDS services in Prince George's County (PGC) in Maryland. MLC works with several local organizations with a direct response to PGC’s high HIV/AIDS prevalence and incidence rates. My motto is "Be educated. Be healthy. And LIVE, passionately!" Awareness creation ranges from volunteering to conduct safety meetings at Pepco Holdings, Inc., to organizing an open house in my Southeast, Washington, DC apartment building to promote prevention and education around HIV using gift bags and posters.

I also refer people to PGC HIV testing sites, drug treatment centers and food banks, and provide education and prevention contacts offered to PGC residents. I believe that everyone is unique, and everyone’s perception is different. Reaching all people exactly from where they are concerning awareness in HIV is the key to community mobilization, one community at a time.

My training experience includes the following: Black AIDS Institute Community Mobilization College Student Fellow Graduate 2008; Certified OraQuick Advance Tester, OraSure Technologies, Inc 2008; Trained HIV Names Reporting Tester, Department of Health AIDS Administration 2008; Certified African American HIV Education and Prevention Instructor, American Red Cross Authorized 2007; CPR Trained and Certified 2008. Since 2006, I have volunteered at the Reid Temple AME Church, as the Pathway to Life HIV/AIDS Ministry Secretary and with Pepco Holdings, Inc., as a Diversity Department Participant. I have been with Whitman-Walker Clinic, as a National HIV Testing Day and Food Bank Volunteer, since 2005.

Related links:

• Future Women HIV/AIDS Leaders
• National Minority AIDS Council
• Whitman-Walker Clinic
• 2009 AIDSWalk Washington
• Capital Area Food Bank

Be safe. PRETTY please.

*Smooches&Hugs*

Introducing: Black Family Blog Network

From our friends over at Black & Married with Kids (BMWK):

Everything positive, informative & family-friendly. I'm loving this right now...

Click here for more information & check back often for updates!

*Smooches&Hugs*

Spring Break Shopping Party @ FRESH Boutique!

Attention, shoppers!...

Whether you are taking a trip to someplace warm or not, SPRING BREAK is just around the corner. Come check out FRESH'S traditional, trendy and functional clothing and accessories.

You'll get up to 70% off the already affordable pieces you won't be able to find any place else. 

Enjoy Champagne Bellinis & Cheesecake!

Bites on us as you shop the 2009 Spring Fashion trends and stock up for Spring!

Let's recap: FREE! Georgetown! FREE! Desserts! FREE! Shopping!

Submit RSVPs to:

Kristi Hartig

info@glowweddingsandevents.com 

http://glowweddingsandevents.wordpress.com

Let her know elle sent you! ;-)

& tell a friend! (or 2...or 5!)

*Smooches&Hugs*

Bright Ideas: Valentine's Day

Now, I KNOW this particular "Hallmark Holiday" can be bittersweet, sweet or just plain bitter for some...

(choose applicable heart)

However, its just another day!...& everything happens (or doesn't) for a reason. Might not make sense at the time, but... it makes sense! (Get it?)

Here are some ideas for V-day:

• "Table for ONE": Treat yourself to lunch. When you're "out & about", you never know who you'll meet ;-)
• Read COSMO's Sexy Valentine Blowout: Sexy gifts & ideas (LOL!@ the horror stories)
• Have mock/cocktails with friends: Create "signature" drinks (Love Overboard! OR Love Stinks on Ice!), get the love/anti-love music going & pop in a love/anti-love movie (The Notebook OR 10 Things I Hate About You)
• Spend time with a loved one: Grab the kids/pet & hit the road. Perhaps its a good time to tell that "crush" of yours how you REALLY feel...
• Charity: Its always a good time to donate (time, money, clothing, resources) to a local charity/non-profit organization. Showing love is a nice way to mend a broken heart. The gift that keeps on giving.
• Hospice/Retirement Community: Deliver gift bags & homemade Valentines.

So, whether you're single, involved or confused/straddling the fence -- take time out to enjoy your day...

*Smooches&Hugs*

American Heart Association: Wear Red Day!

Ladies & gents-

When you get a chance, be sure to check out my latest "Get em Girls post: National Wear Red Day!

As always review, comment & forward -- please & thank you! -- because this time, its EXTRA important...

So red isn't your color? Big deal! Here are my bright ideas for a "hint" red: extra-cute FREE 'Go Red' pin, scarf, jewels, lip stick/gloss, hair ribbon/clip/bows, sneakers, socks, belt, purse, glasses, hat or even nail polish!

Post any other bright ideas here...

Don't forget to dress them babies up, too! :-)

Been slacking? Catch up! Archives

*Smooches&Hugs*

FTD: $19.99 - 2 Dozen Roses

You know I'm a firm believer in "Just because" gifts...

Why wait for Valentine's Day?... FTD's lovely bouquets start at just $19.99, so hurry, while supplies last!

*Special thanks to my cousin Shaun for sharing such a great find!*

*smooches&hugs*

The Phenomenal Woman 2009 Award

Another great thing from Jimeka Katherine & Set'z Her In Motion:

Suggestions for nomination:

• Aunt/great-aunt
• Author
• Beautician
• Boss
• Business partner
• Cancer surivor
• Childcare provider
• Co-worker
• College graduate
• Counselor
• Friend
• Grandmother
• Missionary
• Mother/GodMother
• Niece
• Pastor
• Physician/Nurse
• Sister
• Teacher
• Vendor
• Volunteer
• Wife

...or anyone else you can think of!

*smooches&hugs*

OnDemand: ExerciseTV

Check out my 1st Fit Life entry on the Get 'Em Girls site!

OnDemand: ExerciseTV 

Take the time to discover a new YOU! Grab your friends/mates & get moving! Yet another fun, FREE activity for you to enjoy. You can always afford to stay in shape!

Don't be pressured by the whole "New Year's Resolution" thing. 

Missed a few articles? Check out my Archives to get up-to-speed on the "goings ons". 

& more importantly: Review! Rate! Forward!

Take care & enjoy the holiday!

*smooches&hugs*

3 (BETTER) Ways to Communicate

Here are just a few ideas to put the 'personal' back into "personal relationships":

• Telephone vs. Text: for important heart-to-hearts, pick up a phone & discuss. If that's not possible, then make an effort to compare schedules. Sometimes, it helps to have a friendly face to go with the voice.
• Letter/Note vs. Email: forwarding jokes, chain letters & pictures are fine, every once in awhile, but dropping a note just to say "Thank You" or "Just Thinking of You..." are even better.
• Going Out vs. [All of the Above]: Instead of relying on the aforementioned ways to communicate, why not "do lunch". Better yet, schedule monthly outings (happy hour, bowling, museum tours, sporting events, window/shopping sprees, karaoke night, bar hop, pot luck, play dates, spa day, etc) to reconnect & see each other IN PERSON.

Admit it; its nice to be thought of & even better to think of others. I know we're in a Recession & all, but... it only takes "time" to show those that you care.

Feel free to share your ideas!

Cherish the day!... *Smooches&Hugs*

Music: Jimeka Katherine

Jimeka & I go waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay back. We've known each other since *ahem* Middle School (YOU do the math!) & not a day went by that she didn't have a kind word or a song to sing. Always so sweet, so humble & far too kind.

Anywho, check her out on MySpace!  

*smooches&hugs*