The Sweet 7

Is There Anybody Out There?

noreply@blogger.com (The Sweet 7) — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 13:54:00 +0000

Is there anybody out there?

I left the light off for a long time.

Today, I turned it back on.

✶

Sir W. Arthur Lewis: Princeton University Renamed Main Auditorium

noreply@blogger.com (The Sweet 7) — Wed, 27 Jun 2018 12:33:00 +0000

My 238 sq. mile island of Saint Lucia has 2 Nobel Laureates. Even crazier, both are born on January 23rd, differing years.

Sir Derek Walcott - Literature
Sir Arthur Lewis - Economics

The main auditorium in Robertson Hall, home of Princeton University’s Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs, has been renamed for Sir W. Arthur Lewis (1915-1991). This video tribute commemorates Lewis’ life and scholarship: He served on Princeton’s faculty from 1963 to 1983 and was the University’s first black full professor. He received the 1979 Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences and was knighted in 1963. Film editing: FireRock Productions Executive producer: Elisabeth Hirschhorn Donahue Producer: B. Rose Kelly

Thanks for sharing Goretti Paul. This is so inspiring. My friend also reminds me that Sir Arthur Lewis was the first ever Vice Chancellor of The University of the West Indies (UWI).

How I Learned to hear God's Voice More Clearly

noreply@blogger.com (The Sweet 7) — Sat, 05 May 2018 11:41:00 +0000

Slightly amusing to me that after such a long hiatus from writing on this blog, I choose to share this message "This Is How I Learned to hear God's Voice More Clearly."

More so, I have become the least religious person too but spirit definitely calls. This message struck a chord because I've been prompted to get back to sharing on this blog. And even if one person listens I've done my duty.

I'm 30 & I Embalm Dead Bodies For A Living

noreply@blogger.com (The Sweet 7) — Fri, 04 May 2018 13:54:00 +0000

The first post I shared this morning on Facebook was the following video of this 30 year old mortician and her experiences in the funeral business.

I even chose to go a step further and WhatsApp'd my daughter a link to it. She already thinks I'm a weirdo so I did not know what her reaction would have been sharing a morbid video when only eleven years old, "who's thinking about death?"

By the time we met in the kitchen this morning on our way out the house, she was delighted by the young lady in the video, Miranda. So the video went over well.

This under 7 minute video provides a lesson about "LIVING" and certainly has me focused on putting a little more effort on how I walk out my house. At any moment we may make an entrance to the other side.

The 30-Year-Old Mortician Obsessed With Vintage Retro Fashion — & Death

Rihanna's 10 Minute Guide to Going Out Makeup

noreply@blogger.com (The Sweet 7) — Thu, 03 May 2018 19:39:00 +0000

Isn't Rihanna the cutest?

Certainly, loving Rihanna's 10 Minute Guide to Going Out Makeup

Since I am very much a Fenty Beauty fan, here are a few of my own makeup looks using the line. I always do my own makeup. And while I enjoy the work of makeup artistes, I've only had my face professionally done once and that was in 2011. I really feel comfortable making up my own face to go with my mood.

Ashley Skerritt - Saint Lucia

noreply@blogger.com (The Sweet 7) — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 15:51:00 +0000

Not since St.Lucia, The Ultimate Holiday (2000 Edition) promotional video, produced by Visual Domain Limited which used Enya's Orinoco Flow (Sail Away) as background music, have I been as intoxicated by a song which encapsulates the essence of my island home. Not until now.

Travel Saint Lucia, the Official Tourism Authority of Saint Lucia recently shared a video produced by Morgan Oliver-Allen, one of the many guests who visit our island. The video while splendid, got infused with the song "Saint Lucia" by Saint Lucian singer and songwriter, Ashley Skerritt and that just took the video to a whole other level.

Together, the video and the song capture the warmth, mystique and sensuality of a holiday in Saint Lucia. It promotes more than just a peaceful and relaxing stay. It offers the thrill of a Caribbean vacation.

Ashely's sultry hook "Come to town I'll take you around, pretty Saint Lucia!"

"Pretty Saint Lucia" the scenes are what dreams are made of and teases the senses. Ashley's open invitation titilates to come to our island "to go to the Pitons, chill while the breeze flows, ride on the East coast, swim in Soufriere, sip on Chairmans and cranberry, take a lime by Island Breeze, listen to ocean speak!"

A post shared by Travel Saint Lucia (@travelsaintlucia) on Feb 24, 2018 at 9:46am PST

Listen here: Ashley Skerritt feat. Sean Alaric - Saint Lucia

IG: Ashley Skerritt Music

Tifi Zouk - The Revolutionary Interchangeable Handbag

noreply@blogger.com (The Sweet 7) — Fri, 02 Mar 2018 13:39:00 +0000

Tifi Zouk is the revolutionary interchangeable leather handbag. This interchangeable bag offers 3 bags in 1. The bag enables the carrier to change not only the style but the color of the bag from pink, blue or red in seconds. The ultra-feminine, pink ruffled detailed one is my favorite. The blue is topped with a little blue bow. While the red is simple without any detail.

How many times have you switched bags and left something behind in the shuffle? Tifi Zouk eliminates the hassle of needing to unpack and repack into another bag. Simply zip or unzip a new color or style to suit.

Most importantly, this large capacity tote is perfect for travel and comfortably holds a wallet, tablet, umbrella, water bottle, cosmetic bag and every other knick knack.

The Face Behind Tifi Zouk:

Noelina St. Ange is the St.Lucian entrepreneur and owner of Tifi Zouk. The designer filed for a US patent which is currently pending with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), by doing so herself.

St.Ange travelled to Asia to meet the manufacturers of her innovative bag design, and started her first partnership with Fantasia Novelty Enterprise, the Taiwanese company which manufactures her innovative bag design.

Tifi Zouk handbags are available for purchase on Amazon, making her one of the first St. Lucians on the island to partner with the world's largest online retailer.

I was curious about the name of her bag line and she explained, "Well Zouk was my grandfather and because of my close relationship with him, growing up a neighbour started calling me "Tifi Zouk." And to this day my mom calls me "Tifi Zouk." So when I came up with the idea for the handbag I wanted a catchy name and "Tifi Zouk" just sounded good.

Tifi - ti fille: Saint Lucian patois translates to "little girl."

Noelina St.Ange confirms "Our little island has so much undiscovered talent and creativity. I hope fellow Saint Lucians realize all of what is possible if they just pursue their interest."

Contact:

Facebook @tifizouk

Instagram @tifizoukhandbags

Steel Sisterss - Health, Wellness and Fitness

noreply@blogger.com (The Sweet 7) — Sun, 21 Jan 2018 15:44:00 +0000

If you are 3 weeks late into getting your new year into tip-top shape gear. I highly recommend checking out these two Saint Lucian sisters, Lauren & Tianah Foster. Both ladies now live in the UK and are "on a journey to becoming the best we can be."

Their instagram "Steel Sisterss" really is a representation of their health, fitness and wellness lifestyle.

Check out their Body Joy 5 Clean Eating Challenge too.

Scorpio Season - Birthday Vibes: Addicted II Fyah

noreply@blogger.com (The Sweet 7) — Thu, 26 Oct 2017 02:25:00 +0000

It's no ordinary Scorpio season, apart from Jupiter, the planet that governs growth, abundance, good fortune and overindulgence transits my sign for the next 13 months, I am also turning 40!

While I took forever to finalize my birthday plans, my most simplistic plans entail wearing black through out the season. And slightly extra, Mrs. "you're too vain" is hustling on a body that allows me to pose half way naked with just a bottle of bubbly in hand by my actual birthday! When I share my seemingly THOT plans, the following question is "who is your photographer?" LOL.

Decisive plans include(d) celebrating the birthdays of people I quite love and admire in Toronto which resulted in me opening up Scorpio season there, with intentions to return for another friend's big birthday.

Last weekend, I had a blast at Dream Resto Lounge's 'Everything Spicy' event celebrating my cousin Nichelle's birthday; sippin' on vodka-tonics, dancing like no one was watching, on par with 20 somethings and clubin' with the best, most random Toronto crew a girl could ask for.

When I finally managed to pull away from the dance floor, you know when the bar is already shut down, the lights keep flashing on, a gradual indication party done, I finally headed out the club, a young man handed me a CD. He suggested that I would enjoy a dancehall CD. And I gladly accepted his suggestion since I hardly listen to dancehall anyway, due to the mere fact, I have no idea how to stay current with the genre.

I have been pumping the promotional CD ADDICTED 2 FYAH [EXTENDED CD MIX] @FYAHBLAZIIN (OCT 2017) since returning home and figured it was every bit worth sharing. And believe me, if I was headed back to Toronto on November 3rd, you'd more than likely find me creating another memorable Scorpio season movie at the Boss Club! Maybe you can catch me on my second round. *WINK*

BTW: I had a flashback as I typed CLUBBIN' earlier:

Happy Scorpio Season!

Saint Lucian Youtuber: Jeanmeil Nestor

noreply@blogger.com (The Sweet 7) — Tue, 26 Sep 2017 18:30:00 +0000

How Jack would've looked if he was drowning in a Sea of VIBES!

Over the summer, I came across this Youtuber. I-AM-A-SUCKER-FOR-YOUTUBE.com!

Instantly sucked into this carnival vlogger's world which kind of reminded me of Paris Hilton & Nicole Richie's reality show "The Simple Life," although nothing about this charming vlog is simple!There are major scene stealers such as 23 year old, Saint Lucian Youtuber Jeanmeil Nestor and his Day 1 - party girl, Petal. Despite the full energy of Jeanmeil and his friends, he is currently in his final year as a Chemistry major, studying in Barbados. So don't be alarmed when MOMMA-DUKES makes an appearance in his vlogs. It is heart-warming!

Whether carnival fetin', chatting in a car with friends, sailing the Caribbean seas or traveling with his mom, hilarity ensues! I'm soon to hit the big 4-0 but this takes me twenty years back while allowing me to tag along in 2017 with new, cool-ass friends in my head!

OHGVLOG allows you to experience his Caribbean Life, Love & Festivals. Not only is this vlog wonderfully edited, it's your fly on the wall experience into Caribbean style and fashion, the music, the food and the people. And I'm here for all of it!

Enjoy ...

FOAM + ALCOHOL = ???

ADULT BEACH PARTY VLOG | St. Lucia Carnival 2017
HOOKED | CATAMARAN PARTY VLOG | St. Lucia Carnival 2017 ST. LUCIA CARNIVAL 2017 | VLOG

SUBSCRIBE here: OHGVLOG

Barbados Fashion Label: Blac Flamingo Apparel

noreply@blogger.com (The Sweet 7) — Tue, 26 Sep 2017 14:46:00 +0000

Lots of smaller Caribbean island designers from jewelry to swimwear are popping up in this digital age. Caribbean fashion is colorful, tropical and ethnic. Fabrics are light, airy and loose. Caribbean style is chic and really effortless. Designers create pieces which allow individuals to seamlessly be able to dress up or dress down, from beach to dinner or fete (party), day to night. And designs encapsulate the flirty and fun, laid back Caribbean lifestyle.

This morning, this picture of two models wearing ethnic patterned swimwear caught my eye and instantly had me hunting for the designer.

The Bajan (Barbadian / from Barbados) brand, Blac Flamingo Apparel is a fun quirky brand that specializes in creating funky swimwear pieces that can easily transition from beach wear to casual wear, using non-conventional and conventional fabrics to create one of a kind swimwear, garments, accessories and hand painted custom made products.

Photos Courtesy: Visublast and Mathew John

Fall Reading - Book Suggestions

noreply@blogger.com (The Sweet 7) — Wed, 20 Sep 2017 18:28:00 +0000

Fall always seems like the most apt time to cozy up with a book. And with all the depressing World news from politics to natural disasters, I'll take getting lost in some alternate universe other than my own.

Author Hanya Yanagihara's A Little Life has me totally totally enamored with the four male friends who age from their mid-20s into their early 50s in New York.

The author exquisitely conveys the lives of her characters. She even has me doing a first - reading a book over 500 pages. I'm already invested in this 800 plus page book.

A Little Life - Hanya Yanagihara

Curious about the author, Hanya Yanagihara too ... I took it to Google and came across this not so typical article about the A Little Life Author who opened up the doors to her one bedroom New York apartment and lives with 12,000 books. As if her book had not made me curious enough, I found myself more fascinated by the woman who reveals her characters with such depth.

What better way to present an author of a book whom I'm already committed to - getting a bird's eye view into her private space. Tickled pink because I have become quite the black Martha Stewart of sorts with my new home and proudly I've become quite the green-thumbed gardener. *smiles* I'll have to show you some time.

In that article, Hanya Yanagihara was asked "What books do you want to read over again?" Immediately I added her read over again books to my wishlist:

The Untouchable - John Banville

The Remains Of The Day - Kazuo Ishiguro

Seven Japanese Tales - Junichiro Tanizaki

It’s Beautiful Here - Megan Morton and Brooke Holm

Meanwhile my bookclub September's pick is Dark Places by Gillian Flynn. I've been terrible reading monthly book club suggestions. I particularly opted to ignore this book since the last Gillian Flynn book I read was Gone Girl. Simply not willing to give any one author so much devotion.

I started The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood in Spring but eventually got annoyed with women being told what they must do by the patriarch. I quickly put it to rest!

The last couple of times I read book club picks was Fall 2016. I did read the mystery-romance Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier and the autobiography memoir A Different Kind of Daughter: The Girl Who Hid from the Taliban in Plain Sight by Maria Toorpakai.

A friend recently shared her hurricane weather book to join her in bed, The Husband's Secret by Liane Moriarty. I believe I read this too in book club.

Dark Places - Gillian Flynn

The Handmaid's Tale - Margaret Atwood

Rebecca - Daphne du Maurier

A Different Kind of Daughter: The Girl Who Hid from the Taliban in Plain Sight by Maria Toorpakai

The Husband's Secret - Liane Moriarty

Another friend recently said of this book Green Days by The River, "If you didn't study this book as literature student in high school, your school sucked." I guess my school sucked because I never read that book in high school - so I added to my to-read list.

Green Days by The River - Micheal Anthony

One book I won't hesitate to mention is Witch - Unleashed, Untamed, Unapologetic by Lisa Lister which explains the history behind witchcraft, why identifying as a healer in past centuries led women to be burned at the stake, and why the witch is reawakening in women across the world today. All women are witches, and when they connect to source, trust their intuition, and use their magic, they can make medicine to heal themselves and the world. This book is a re-telling of Herstory, an overview of the different schools of witchcraft and the core principles and practices within them. Discover ancient wisdom made relevant for modern witches.

My children also have their picks:

My eleven year old daughter enjoyed Jacqueline Woodson's 337 page book Brown Girl Dreaming which tells the moving story of her childhood in vivid poems. Raised in South Carolina and New York, Woodson always felt halfway home in each place. She shares what it was like to grow up as an African American in the 1960s and 1970s, living with the remnants of Jim Crow and her growing awareness of the Civil Rights movement.

Another super read is Hidden Figures, the amazing story of four African-American female mathematicians at NASA who helped achieve some of the greatest moments in our space program which became a major motion picture.

My son who recently started school. Yesterday, he was proudly reading this delightful alphabet rhyme Chicka Chicka ABC. A told B, and B told C, "I'll meet you at the top of the coconut tree."

Brown Girl Dreaming - Jacqueline Woodson

Hidden Figures Young Readers' Edition Paperback - Margot Lee Shetterly

Chicka Chicka ABC - Bill Martin Jr.

Big City, Little Budget

noreply@blogger.com (The Sweet 7) — Sun, 17 Sep 2017 12:24:00 +0000

The travel blog Oneika The Traveller should come as no surprise to you. As far back as September 2011, I shared her travel blog with Sweet 7 readers listing her as one of many Black Women Inspiring You to Travel. I mentioned her again in April 2013 when I shared my 12 of My Favorite Travel Blogs.

Confident that I see star power in individuals, The Sweet 7 is my expression of what I value in others and significantly share with others in this space. Oneika Raymond is another prime example of just that.

Oneika Raymond is a new host for the Travel Channel and her latest digital series has just gone live on Facebook. Her new show is Big City, Little Budget. Oneika shows us how to live large for very little cash in some of the USA's most expensive cities.

First stop: New York City. We’ll take a 3-episode deep dive into the most expensive city to live in (and visit) and find out clever ways to eat, travel and experience the culture on the cheap. FYI: Don't hear anything? Click on sound button on bottom-right corner of the video.

Oneika expresses "This is literally the biggest thing I've ever done, and the culmination of years of hard work, blood, sweat, tears, self-doubt, and a huge helping of faith. I'm still pinching myself that Travel Channel gave me this opportunity. Would love your support so please like, comment, and share with your friends!! The travel media space is extremely white and mostly male, so having a sista host a travel series is a pretty big deal! Let's show Travel Channel that we like diversity/melanin and want to see more of it!"

12 Tribes - Clothing for Conscious People

noreply@blogger.com (The Sweet 7) — Fri, 15 Sep 2017 18:13:00 +0000

JAH RASTA!

*probably the only time I'd have a reason to bawl this statement out here*

I hopped up when my brother and long time supporter of this clothing label, Natural Threads 12 Tribes Clothing messaged me to share the brand's online site.

Over the years, particularly at Christmas, my brother has gifted my husband and I clothing from this Saint Lucian owned label. After 8 or so years, the clothing is still in great condition.

In fact, I recently put a 12 Tribes pair of shorts into a bag for Goodwill, the shorts have now gone fully pum-pum (up under my ass) due to an increasing waistline and thicker thighs. *Thinking* I should run back to the bag for Goodwill and hand those shorts to my daughter. It would fit her perfectly and would be suitable for dance class.

Natural Threads 12 Tribes is a brand for conscious people. The clothing embodies prominent symbols of Rastafarian culture; the colors (red, green and gold), Lion of Judah, Marijuana, Lighters and Revolution.

I peeped and noted the addition of clothing for colder climates; hoodies and long sleeve shirts with a wide selection of color options. Even new products ranging from coffee mugs, necklaces, clocks, socks and flip flops. The flip flops ...YES!

Not the norm, but I quite like this artistic "Midnight" tee

the eyes are glowing the 12 Tribes logo.

Flashback: 12 Tribes

JAH RASTA!

Looks like 12 Tribes is going to take my dollars this time!

Shoulder Body Language - Stay Close to People who Feel Like Sunlight!

noreply@blogger.com (The Sweet 7) — Sun, 03 Sep 2017 01:37:00 +0000

"Stay close to people who feel like sunlight!"

My inner voice yells "RAYS!" as I read @Roseia's caption ... LOL.

I love the sun so much that it was my first tattoo which I got at 18 years old when I was in college in Miami with my mom. Mommy got an ankle tattoo! LOL. (I now have 5 and want at least 3 more tats)

Before I had children, I always said my daughter's name would be "Soleil - inspired by Soleil Moon Frye (despite never watching her then tv show) and St.Lucia's French influence. It made sense since "soleil" translated to "SUN". Yet I married a Hispanic and opted for "Sol" ... spanish for sun.

My daughter's name is Ava-Sol, please don't have me explain why I added "Ava" because that is another story. In addition, I did Languages for CXC - Caribbean Examinations Council - French and Spanish so I suppose I was more open to either translation for the word "sun".

While thanks to this picture of @Roseia, I most noticed and love the shoulder exposure of both ladies. SHOULDERS have always been the part of a woman's body that I find most seductive. *Scorpio here!* So I want you to consider shoulder body language.

Roseia is a beauty and I add fine, sexy and down to earth soul. I happened to meet her on the streets of Port-of-Spain, Trinidad & Tobago one Carnival Tuesday, two years ago. While waiting in line for a bus to our carnival band Tribe, we were asked to take a few pictures together. Little did she know then, I was already a fan, thanks to Instagram.

Days later when departing the island at Piarco International Airport, we met up again. When we got to chatting, Roseia revealed that her mom lived in Saint Lucia (my island). I could not believe, I knew her mother from the time she first immigrated to our island from the continent of Africa. I may have been about seven years old. And like I told Roseia, I still bring my children to meet her mom on every trip when I return home.

Instantly, Roseia and I connected and she introduced me to her stunning daughter. Here's the biggest and best reveal, Roseia's daughter is participating in Miss Universe Barbados 2017 ... so no secret who I am supporting, Mutamuliza Cutting!

BFYNE Teams Up With Trinidad Talent: I.Douglas Photography & Soowan Bramble

noreply@blogger.com (The Sweet 7) — Wed, 30 Aug 2017 13:31:00 +0000

The Nigerian-American swimwear line B FYNE has been captivating with its culturally inclusive designs of super-sexy, flattering designs with awesome bold colors & eccentric prints. The designer and entrepreneur, Buki Ade was inspired to start a swimwear line after searching for a unique swimsuit while on vacation; there she realized the industry lacked creativity and representation of African designers.

Buki Ade has incorporated some Caribbean talent into her 2017 line using both Trinidad & Tobago photographer, I.Douglas Photography and model, Soowan Bramble. Read Soowan's exclusive interview with Trinidad Carnival Diary here.

I.Douglas Photography posted "Got the opportunity to shoot for Nigerian swim designer line @bfyneswim honestly thought it was a spam email and didn't respond at first, but grateful never the less 🙏🏽 "

How to Help The Flooded

noreply@blogger.com (The Sweet 7) — Wed, 30 Aug 2017 09:54:00 +0000

The best messages come to me in the stillness of morning. Today's message "How to Help The Flooded" by Matt Williams is profound and helpful. Good advice and tips to assist anyone struggling with a disaster or life changing event.

Sadly as I still lay in bed, ready to kick off my morning, I got an alert "JUST IN: Harvey Makes 2nd Landfall: after lingering over Texas for days, now Tropical Storm Harvey made landfall for second time in Western Louisiana."

Matt Williams

Yesterday at 2:28am

HOW TO HELP THE FLOODED

I'm not much for writing long posts. Making an exception in hopes it helps the flooded.

DRAMA OF TRAUMA

A flooded home is a traumatic event. Like any trauma, it is tricky to know how to help someone experiencing such a terrible event.

Jen and I flooded on Memorial Day 2015 (see photo) and again on Tax Day 2016. The second flood came just days after completing the restoration and decoration of our house from the first flood. If cruelty was a color, we saw red for a long time.

Flood victims often experience what I liken to shell-shock meets heart break meets chaos. Toss in moments of exhaustion, terror, and rage and you've got a pretty fair description of what's in store.

When people wrestle with trauma like this, one of the last things they will ask for is help. But it's what they need most.

BE THE TORTOISE

The good news is that if you want to help someone who has flooded, the best way is to show up.

Helping the flooded comes with an understanding that this is a marathon, not a sprint. They'll need you more in the weeks after, when most have moved on and the adrenaline has worn off. So pace your help and pace yourself. Be the tortoise.

If you know someone who flooded, get out your calendar and pick a day or two a week for the next ten weeks or more and write down "show up."

One day drop off something and say hi. Another day work for an hour or two. And another day have them over for dinner on a weekend. If you can only do one thing, one time, then do it. No act of showing up is too small. Dropping off a hot cup of coffee will be remembered for years to come.

As a rule, don't just ask if they need anything, ask if they need anything else. Say "I'm coming by with trash bags and lunch, need anything else?" This signals that you've already committed to coming by. They're likely to tell you what else they need.

GESTURE UP

Jennifer Castillo De Williams and I will never forget when someone we hardly knew drove up to the side of our yard. It was so full of flooded belongings that the driver didn't get out. She rolled down her window and handed over a giant bag of Chick-fil-a. She smiled, offered her sympathies and drove off. We were exhausted, caked in mud, and heart broken and in that moment, Chick-fil-a never tasted so good.

We promised we would remember how simple gestures like this meant so much to us at the time. They offered beautiful brief moments of normalcy in between many long abnormal ones.

Help of this kind is fairly easy. Try to work it into your weekday or weekend routines. Plan ways to make thoughtful gestures for anyone you know who has flooded.

LIFE ON MARS

When you flood, you might as well be on Mars. Everything that was easy and familiar is now complex and foreign. You can't find files, documents, cards, keys, devices...you name it. Simple tasks get sucked into massive black holes of work. It's maddening.

Then there are the things of sentimental value: the drawings from the kids; the shoes they wore on their first step; the wedding album. Those treasures, they're all gone.

Yes, it's just stuff, but make no mistake, sifting through the filthy wreckage that was once your life's memories is brutal. You will have some good, long cries as you toss them out en masse. But you will get through it and you'll be tougher for it, maybe even enlightened.

FLOOD CLUB

Those who survive the salvos of Houston's floods enter a club that knows something about loss and have an appreciation for what matters most. For me, it brought a little less whining.

Be aware there is something unsettling that lingers for some club members. I suppose it's a kind of mild PTSD that seeps in between the evacuations and ridiculous toil. When I hear the rain now, it's no longer my soothing friend. It's kind of a sinister thing that taunts me when I look outside to see what's coming up to the door.

It comes down to this: every thoughtful thing you can do to help someone recover from a flood is probably one less thing they'll have to manage alongside their overwhelming grief.

So try to give the flooded a few moments of peace in what feels like a strange unprovoked war.

SHOWTIME

Here are some practical ways to "show up" by bringing or doing stuff. Feel free to add to these lists in comments, it's endless.

Stuff you can bring

-Cases of bottled water

-Floor fans

-Old newspapers for packing

-Cases of paper towels

-Cases of toilet paper

-Cases of sanitizing wipes

-Battery powered camping lanterns

-Power strips

-Work gloves

-Pop up tables to place and stage stuff

-Step ladders

-Drop cloths

-Hammers, blade utility knives

-Sharpees of different sizes and colors

-Good first aid kit (many cuts and scraps during clean up)

-Rolls of duct tape and packing tape

-Hand sanitizer

-Plastic bins/containers of different sizes with lids

-Cardboard boxes (small, medium, and large)

-Bags (contractor, trash, gallon zip locks)

-House cleaning solvents

-Bug repellent (mosquitoes are vicious inside a hot, muggy, muddy flooded house)

-Fast Food (buy several kinds of fast foods and just leave it. Someone will eat it and be thankful)

-Boxes filled with easy to eat snacks (chips, bars, nuts, and fun stuff)

-Paper plates, plastic utensils, cups, napkins

-Prepared Foods are nice, but more complicated

-Gift cards for food (this is for a dinner after a long day, they can get take out at their hotel or temporary place instead of having to cook)

-Gift cards to Marshalls, Target, Walmart, Lowes (they can get clothes, supplies, and other needs)

-Clean old or cheap t-shirts that can be worn as throw aways during clean up

-Clean bedding sheets, blankets, pillows

Stuff you can do

-Laundry (We loved this. People would come by and put a bunch of dirty clothes in a bag, wash, and return them folded to us).

-Cut sheet rock, pull out flooring, and clean out house if you're involved with initial 24 hours

-Position and maintain fans throughout house

-help sort what's destroyed from what's still good (our rule: if flood water touched it, it's destroyed)

-Haul what's destroyed into piles in the yard for pick up by city

-Pack and label belongings that might still be good

-Stage "still good" boxes and load in a POD onsite; or on a rental truck for storage

I remember the first day after we flooded. The father of my son's girlfriend asked me what to do. I was still looking at all the loss so I struggled to give him any useful direction. He quickly realized the situation and said, "I'm going to separate good stuff from bad stuff." I nodded and he and some other guys went to work. Hours later we had piles in the yard and the house was beginning to clean out. I have many examples of people who came from no where to help us in many ways, then left without ever knowing their names to thank.

After a flood, there's so much to do, just guess and you'll probably be doing something really helpful.

Last, there's "stuff you can share" that takes more time and commitment but means a lot

-Share your car or truck for rides, pick ups/drop-offs

-Share your garage to store their stuff that survived

-Share your home for temporary living, food, showers or laundry (obvious, but important)

No one who has flooded wants to live with someone else or use their stuff. Understand how much it sucks to be so helpless, it's dehumanizing. The best thing you can do is quietly insist and get to it.

There is a lot to unpack here. For those who made it this far down the post, I hope you found it helpful.

There were so many people who opened their hearts, homes, and hard working hands to us that I still get overwhelmed by their generosity. People are a lot of things, but what we witnessed in our hours, days, weeks, and months of need was on the pure side of love. Know that it's out there and it's there for you.

For our friends who flooded from Harvey, no need to leave a light on, we'll bring you a new one.

Original Facebook Link, please continue to share: How To Help The Flooded by Matt Williams

The Chakra Challenge

noreply@blogger.com (The Sweet 7) — Sun, 27 Aug 2017 15:01:00 +0000

How would you like to awaken, energize, and reconnect to YOUR BODY without leaving your home or spending money?

Allie - The Journey Junkie has taught hundreds of yoga practitioners (just like you) how to dive deeper into their yoga practice & cultivate positive changes using the chakra system, and she wants to teach you too! Now is the time to commit, create space in your day, and get inspired to learn more about your energetic centers that lie within.

What to expect with the Chakra Challenge:

Seven yoga flows each themed to a different chakra center
Daily inspiration emails with everything you need, delivered to your doorstep at 5 AM EST
Daily connection via a private online Facebook tribe
Invitation to meditate each day using the related bija mantra
A chakra guide to begin your journey

Expect to awaken, energize and reconnect your body, mind and soul from the inside out. No longer will we only focus on the physical layer, but instead, the mental, emotional, and spiritual layers of who we are and who we want to become. Get ready, this is your moment to do the work, shine so damn bright, and lay the foundation to wholeheartedly pursue the journey ahead.

The Chakra Challenge begins almost one week away, on Monday, September 4.

Join the free seven day Chakra challenge here: http://bit.ly/2v0WAnm

Lisa J Weekes x Sedale - Emergency (Official Music Video)

noreply@blogger.com (The Sweet 7) — Fri, 25 Aug 2017 22:26:00 +0000

Lisa J Weekes x Sedale - Emergency (Official Music Video) "2017 Release"

Can't forget Lisa's "Hold Me Close" single!

Caribbean Carnival Makeup Tutorials

noreply@blogger.com (The Sweet 7) — Thu, 24 Aug 2017 14:45:00 +0000

Carnival Goddess Makeup Tutorial by Shameless Maya

Baje Kadooment/ Carnival Make Up Tutorial | Crop Over 2017 by CaribBeauty

It's Carnival!! | Makeup Tutorial by JustBrittanyH

Spicemas 2017 Makeup Tutorial | Grenada Carnival 2017 by MissMadam Beauty

Jamaica Carnival 2017 Makeup w/ xo Glamaddic xo by SammyJay Royalty

GRWM: Carnival Makeup ft Sephora Pro Editorial Palette by Ashh MUA

The Launch - TRIBE & BLISS 2016 LIVESTREAM

noreply@blogger.com (The Sweet 7) — Sun, 19 Jul 2015 00:54:00 +0000

Tune in to the LIVE FEED of

The Launch

TRIBE "The Forbidden" & BLISS "The Secret Garden" 2016.

Showtime starts in a few hours ... Sunday, July 19th 12:30am

Happy to say St.Lucian designer in NYC, Claude Desir has designed

Siamese Fighter for TRIBE 2016

St.Lucian Chef & Top Chef Contestant Nina Compton - Compère Lapin in New Orleans

noreply@blogger.com (The Sweet 7) — Thu, 09 Jul 2015 12:30:00 +0000

Compère Lapin (kom-pare la-pan) n. 1. French for “brother rabbit” 2. traditional Caribbean and Creole folktales featuring a mischievous rabbit named Compère Lapin 3. Restaurant helmed by Chef Nina Compton in the heart of the Warehouse Arts District in New Orleans. Nina Compton was the St.Lucian runner up and fan favorite on Bravo's Top Chef: New Orleans.

A May-end weekend trip to New Orleans afforded a St.Lucian friend and I, a first experience to the preview dinner menu of Compère Lapin by Chef Nina Compton. We had a 8pm seating reservation on Friday, May 29th in Chef Nina Compton's new restaurant in New Orleans' Warehouse Arts District, located in the Old No. 77 Hotel & Chandlery, New Orleans' newest hotel.

"Inspiration for the menu comes from the traditional Caribbean folktales featuring a mischievous rabbit named Compère Lapin that Chef Nina Compton read during her childhood in St. Lucia. Drawing on the story’s themes of exploration and play, she mixes the indigenous ingredients and rich culinary heritage of New Orleans with those of her Caribbean roots. Tapping into her classical French culinary training and deep experience with Italian cuisine, the result is a playful menu that takes food you know, and makes it food you love." - Compère Lapin

Despite finding time for numerous hotel room selfies, Dr. Natacha Mortley and I were not a minute late for our 8pm dinner reservation. Not wanting to walk the streets of NOLA in our heels, unsure of the distance between the restaurant and our hotels, we jumped in a taxi.

Just as we were priming for Taxi Cab Confessions - the selfie chronicles, I swear not more than a minute drive, the taxi cab driver said, "I think we passed it." We looked back and there it was Compère Lapin in the Old No. 77 Hotel & Chandlery.

Upon arrival, the Maître D' took our names and asked us to follow her. She mumbled something and left us for about thirty seconds standing among tables of patrons already dining from earlier reservations. When the Maître D' returned, she asked us to follow her. This time returning us to the entrance of the restaurant. While following her, I thought maybe Natacha and I were a little too enthusiastic about our dinner reservations, and arrived five minutes too early for what was our 8pm seating time.

Instead, the Maître D' had us sit at a corner table in the front entrance of the restaurant. In Caribbean terms, a good table to 'MACO' (to be nosy). I got a bird's eye view of the restaurant, the patrons entering and leaving, even the strollers on the ever so hard tongue tying street name - Tchoupitoulas. Actually we got PRIME seating because this corner spot enabled us to view Chef Nina Compton hard at work. While her husband Larry popped in and out of the kitchen for support. All so worth it!

Up walked our waiter Colin. He just gave me CALI surfer dude ... quite pleasant. And once Colin introduced himself, it was followed by the appearance of that mischievous rabbit, Compère Lapin. Compère Lapin popped up on our blue menus, I spied him under my beverage coaster throughout the night and kissed him maybe one, two times as I dabbed my mouth with my paper napkin.

Herb Biscuits with a choice between bacon or a sweet butter.

Am I like the only mother who had dreams of sitting in the wine aisle of a supermarket, opening bottles of wine while pregnant? Well, wine is exactly what I craved when I was pregnant with my son. It's not like I was ever a wine drinker to begin with but since my son Nikail's birth, I love whites, nothing fancy. Shout out to Sutter Homes Moscato. Barefoot Moscato will suffice too. Although on a recent trip to Los Angeles, I got tingles sipping on Sip Moscato, shout out to you too! Enough talk about moscato, I'm enjoying a tequila margarita right now anyway ... so back to the story!

That evening I decided to be a little exotic with my cocktail selections and ordered Panache (which reminds me, what ever became of that Caribbean magazine?) which consisted of IPA, Lemon, Elderflower and Aromatized Wine.

Let's just say CLUELESS! Clueless about IPA or aromatized wine, but I had some semblance about elderflower. Since I am telling you about my Compère Lapin dinner experience, I researched. IPA is India Pale Ale. OK, so beer with elderflower. Elderberry also called elder flower, is a tree that bears cream-colored flowers, followed by dark purple berries in autumn and was once referred to as “nature’s medicine chest.” Aromatized wines are wines that have natural herbs, roots, and/or spices added to give additional flavors.

The final drink for the evening was Road to Fallbrook and that contained Tequila (currently my favorite alcohol. I just enjoyed a 375ml bottle by my lonesome during L.A Carnival - my word, I had wings. I FLEW!), Campari, Lime, Cinnamon & Avocado. Final drink too because this time we had plans to walk down Bourbon Street from Tchoupitoulas Street.

Who knew blended avocado could be used in a cocktail? Think creamy! And while I have never been a fan of Campari, I did remember my brother since it is his noted drink. Did you know that Campari is made in Italy? I discovered that while on a Mediterranean cruise last year.

Between the two cocktails of the evening, I preferred Road to Fallbrook which was a pleasantly creamy and surprisingly consisted of avocado. While Panache was a little too soft on the liquor side for me. And to be honest, I have never been much of a beer drinker.

Next trip to Compère Lapin in New Orleans. I want to be served Abuelita Daquiri, I spotted the usage of plantain in this cocktail!

I chose the Conch Croquette / Pickled Pineapple Tartar Sauce small bite

Do not expect to chew on pieces of conch, or else you would be disappointed. I got over my expectation of chomping on pieces of conch very quickly when I remembered the texture of 'croquettes' from my days of living in Miami.

A croquette is a small breadcrumbed fried food roll containing, either mashed or grounded usually main ingredients. The croquette is from the French word 'croquer', "to crunch". So inside that crunchy exterior batter is conch in a paste form.

Now can we talk about that pickled tartar sauce? OMG, if I was at home, I would have dipped my finger in that little dipping bowl, and licked my finger and that bowl clean! It was that good! So much better than a bottle of store bought tartar sauce. It can be compared to my love affair with only KFC's coleslaw ... UNBEATABLE!

My first course was the Roasted Shrimp, Calabrian Chili Butter and Lemon

Another dish that my only thought was *if only I was at home ... I would kill* was that succulent shrimp. I was trying to be dainty and show my best table manners. As a Lucian, I wanted to be a wonderful representative for St.Lucian Chef Nina Compton. I used my knife and fork to eat my shrimp, also because I was wearing white, but what a task!

I suppose the Maître D' saw the painstaking task of me trying to eat shrimp with a knife and fork, he brought over a few wet naps. It was at that point I finally got the memo that this top notch dining experience was giving me the OK to relax and get comfy! Yet, these 3 babies were already in my tummy.

While most of the night Chef Nina Compton was in her kitchen, at one point she managed to stop by our table to say HELLO. During a brief chat with us, a gentleman seated at a table beside us interrupted, asking whether Chef Nina would mind taking a picture with him and his date. He was starstruck, excited and it really hit me, our Saint Lucian, Chef Nina Compton definitely is now an American celebrity! And just like that, she moved along to take a picture with her fans.

So through out the night, I managed to sneak a few pictures of her in her kitchen!

Her husband Larry looking over her shoulder. I could call Larry, "Mr. Caribbean" like my cousin often refers to my husband. While Nina is our TOP CHEF, Larry is definitely the heart and soul of this establishment. He gave it life!

Early in the evening, when Larry visited our table and discovered we were St.Lucian, he immediately told our waiter Colin, "Do not piss off a St.Lucian woman." We laughed. And I was thinking, *Nina has got you trained well, 'cause you are so right!* LOL. Larry immediately asked which part of the island we were from. I said "Gros Islet!" and he proudly responded, "My mother-in-law is from Gros Islet." Our first natural response was "Oh, we know!" Saint Lucia is that small ... and Nina's family is well known, her father was St.Lucia's first Prime Minister when we the island gained its independence in 1979 from Britain. Her dad was most notably touted as "The Father of Our Nation." Here's a wonderful article about Chef Nina Compton.

My second course was the Curried Goat, Plantain Gnocchi and Cashews

Extra: Sautéed Broccoli Rabe, Lemon and Chili

Well if you know me, the minute I land in Miami and I never fail to do so, I eat curried goat. I love it that much! My SweetSvn instagram reveals.

And I was happy to finally try Chef Nina Compton's gnocchi. During her time on Bravo's TOP CHEF she seemed to love making gnocchi which I had never tasted before then. Even more interesting how she infused plantain in her gnocchi.

Now, the world stops with her curried goat! OMG ... I thank the heavens. Ever had pulled pork? Well that curry goat reminded me of pulled pork, taking me back to my life in Miami. That goat just shredded. So tender enough to be pulled into thin strips! And mighty delicious ... gave a good kick!

Darn it ... I was so stuffed by dessert that I did not have any. Let's just say, I still regret it! LOL. Yet, this gives me one more reason to return to Compère Lapin and New Orleans.

Caribbean restaurants usually are so dingy and tacky, despite the good food. Compère Lapin in American terms hits with a "Home run", in Caribbean terms "Sixes". The restaurant and food are superior. The restaurant's energy has a charming elegance, while the food is an unusual and exotic blend of Caribbean, Hispanic (Miami) and Italian food. There was something about Chef Nina's food that also reminded me why I love Thai food. With each bite, especially that curried goat and plantain gnocchi there were bursts of flavor. Each component let's you know "I'm here!"

As a fellow Saint Lucian, I felt so proud. Nina Compton is elevating the St.Lucian standard beyond our wildest dreams! Even my favorite chef, Emeril Lagasse had this to say a couple of weeks after my visit,"Killer dinner last night at Compére Lapin in the Warehouse District, Nola!"

I tried not to over do it with the pictures but take a bit of a look. Also a young white Maître D walked over with a strong Caribbean accent, and said I hear your accent, "I am from the Cayman Islands." It was so good to be surrounded by more of our own. That's Caribbean people for you.

And the cute bartender was easy on the eyes, especially since he too was in view!

Can't dine at Compère Lapin, then there is always Chef Nina Compton's

Tout La

"Located in the lobby of the Old No. 77 Hotel & Chandlery, Tout La offers expertly crafted coffee, pastries and adult beverages like mimosas for perking up early mornings in the Crescent City. Grab-and-go options are available for travelers looking for a quick bite before heading out of town and fresh, delectable pastries are handmade daily from the kitchen of Compère Lapin, the Warehouse Arts District’s buzzing new restaurant helmed by Chef Nina Compton." - Tout La

So insider secret from that night, GOT TO LOVE LARRY! Larry loves our St.Lucian liquor too! Saint Lucia Distiller Chairman's Reserve will be sold in Compère Lapin. Winward & Leeward Brewery please note Larry is wishing for a shipment for Saint Lucia's very own Piton Beer. Don't make us wait. LOL. And just like that .... our bill comes to our table, "Laissez les bon temps rouler!"

TRANSLATION: Let The Good Times Roll!

Compère Lapin

535 Tchoupitoulas Street,

New Orleans, LA 70130

Sweat758

noreply@blogger.com (The Sweet 7) — Sat, 04 Jul 2015 19:30:00 +0000

I've been laying low ... not because nothing is happening in my life. Actually, I've been very busy ... challenging myself. I lost the baby weight, so exercising, watching what I eat ('though it's summer and I am pouring myself a little more liquor and eating plenty more food) ... to picking up sewing and art classes.

Yet, a recent trip to Los Angeles Carnival and I had fans of this blog still greet me .... cheering me on. I feel guilty like I've cheated you. Despite my being a terrible girlfriend, you've still stuck around.

I have so many trips to fill you in on ... from New Orleans to Los Angeles. And the fact, that I feel like sharing, I'm hoping to get it together!

Thanks to my long time inspiration and friend Stefan who invited me, I am one of 500 members of SWEAT 758, a group created by Lyndale James. 758 being my island Saint Lucia's area code ... and sweat, well maybe you will get the idea.

I am so MF'n impressed with my 'Come on Friends, Let's Start a Book Club' member Courtney Junia and old S7 friend and artiste Ted M.Sandiford. Yet there are so many people who leave my jaw dropped on the daily! I see you Canice, Donavan, Prekere, Andra and Roxy! And got to love new mom Fifi, "When the baby wants to stop the sweat ‪#‎noway‬ let him join too 45 mins on the bike slow but sure." LOL.

I am so proud of these folks. Prouder that we are St.Lucians choosing positive outlets. Certainly not allowing themselves to fall by the wayside (a few faces are familiar and I know they ain't in their 20s. LOL). They are my every bit of inspiration! *Palms together*

May you be inspired ... especially those in the *758* - Saint Lucia. Here's your opportunity to join their community and add and gain wealth!

Stefan

Fifi

Canice

Junia

Ted

POSITIVE VIBRATIONS.

ROAR!

You'll hear me once summer is over. You have all inspired me!

The Wild Card Avant-Garde Leather Accessories - Carnival Monday Wear

noreply@blogger.com (The Sweet 7) — Thu, 02 Jul 2015 10:52:00 +0000

While in Los Angeles for the LA Culture Festival - Hollywood Carnival, I visited the THE WILD CARD studio. What a treat since lately I have been dabbling with my sewing machine. Immediately, I eyed what I want for Trinidad Carnival Monday wear 2016.

The designer brand dares it customers to be different. Caribbean celebrities like Producer, Writer and DJ, Delano of Renaissance Sound and Giselle The Wassi One rock the designer brand too!

The Wild Card designs handmade leather avant-garde accessories such as:

Shoulder Spikes / Spiked Epaulets

Leather Clutches / Bags

Fringe Body Wraps

Fringe Neck Accessories

Heel Slips

Masks

Eye Patches

Here a few of my personal pictures of THE WILD CARD accessories

Instagram: IAMTHEWILDCARD

Celebrity Adventures in St.Lucia - Through The Looking Glass

noreply@blogger.com (The Sweet 7) — Tue, 12 May 2015 04:27:00 +0000

While it peeves me to still have to refer to it as a jazz festival, since it has changed to more of an international music festival, the Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival now in its twenty fourth year, spans a full 12 days and upwards of fifteen venues featuring live performances spiced with the celebration of Saint Lucian arts, culture and cuisine.

My last St.Lucia Jazz Festival probably may have been over a decade ago since losing interest in it. One thing is for certain during this year's 2015 festival, the following regional and international celebrities captured St.Lucia's magic during their brief visits to the island over the last few days. Their pictures are captivating and endearing.

If you are yet to visit St.Lucia, the following eight souls enable me to share what I already know about my island. In the spirit of classic 'GOOD TIMES', Jimmie Walker's tv character JJ, that would be my island "SAINT LUCIA is DYN-O-MITE!"

'Through the looking glass. Here we go!

Gabrielle Bernstein is a motivational speaker, life coach, and author.

Freedom and peace #SpiritJunkie

A photo posted by Gabrielle Bernstein (@gabbybernstein) on May 11, 2015 at 2:02pm PDT

Tony Cross

Apparently You Drink This First Then Get Your Hotel Key 👀 #JustTouchDown #StLucia #WeLiveTonight #Atmosphere #TonyCross #PrivateRyan #ScratchMaster 🙌☀️🌴

A photo posted by Tony Cross (@iamtonycross) on May 7, 2015 at 1:17pm PDT

Singer Robin Thicke

Hello St. Lucia! Exited for tonight!

A photo posted by Robin Thicke (@robinthicke) on May 10, 2015 at 9:51am PDT

Katherine Nurse of Immortelle Beauty

Les Pitons et moi. L'Anse Chastanet #stlucia #paradise #cantwaittocomeback @travelnoire

A photo posted by kaskas21 (@kaskas21) on May 11, 2015 at 12:13pm PDT

Trinidadian designer Rhion Romany

ЯR is here! St.Lucia are you ready? #FavouritePlace #HOTCoutureFashionShow #SheCaribbean #StLuciaJazz #BayGardens #RodneyBay #Happy #Blessed #Love #TrinisInStLucia

A photo posted by Rhion Romany (@rhionromany) on May 5, 2015 at 7:10am PDT

Anya Ayoung-Chee was Miss Trinidad & Tobago Universe 2008 and a contestant in the Miss Universe 2008 pageant, and also the winner of Project Runway's ninth season

St Lucia je t'aime! 💙 #bōtanica

A photo posted by Anya Ayoung-Chee (@anyaayoungchee) on May 9, 2015 at 12:07pm PDT

Ellie Goulding is an English singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. ... And I am a major fan of her current hit "Love Me Like You Do" from the Fifty Shades of Grey movie soundtrack.

Have been in awe of this place but it's time to go home. ✌️

A photo posted by elliegoulding (@elliegoulding) on May 11, 2015 at 1:16pm PDT

Flo-rida ... for the love and respect shown by him wearing a t-shirt donning our St.Lucian flag

Been around the world and I came right back for your love. #StLucia

A photo posted by Flo Rida (@official_flo) on May 11, 2015 at 4:01pm PDT

and then making time to make this video to share my island's beauty with the world,
MIND BLOWING!

The people were just as beautiful as the island #StLucia

A video posted by Flo Rida (@official_flo) on May 11, 2015 at 4:06pm PDT

To ALL ... LIGHT & LOVE. THANK YOU.

NAMASTE.