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What Are You Wearing To The Office This Summer?


Greetings Divas! Did you miss me? I sincerely hope you do, because I really missed you all! I'm so glad to be back from a much needed vacation, and I am excited about this evening's post. Why you ask? Because I plan to discuss one of my favorite topics, and one that you all seem to enjoy as well: fashion! In case you haven't noticed, the weather is heating up...quickly! The air is thick and humid, and the need for summer-appropriate clothing is evident. So, how does a Professional Diva dress for the office in this kind of heat? Fabulously, of course! Check out my top office fashions for the summer below, and please feel free to add more!


The Sleeveless Sheath
You all know I love my sheath dresses for the office. This summer, I plan to take my sleeveless sheath dresses out for a spin. They are professional and sleek, and they can keep you cool in the warm weather. If your office is as cold as mine in the summer due to air conditioner abuse overuse, throw on a long-sleeved cardigan to avoid goosebumps.


The Belted Sheath
It's a sheath dress...with a belt...double win! Be creative with your belt choices and other accessories, as they can help you to create multiple looks.
 
The Sleeveless Wrap Dress
The wrap dress is a classic! I firmly believe that every Professional Diva should have at least one wrap dress in her closet. For the summer, the sleeveless wrap dress is the best. It pairs the classic shape and ease of a wrap dress with the need to keep cool. If your office is an ice box, add a fitted blazer to your outfit.
 
The Ankle Pant Suit

Another summertime favorite of mine! The ankle pant suit is a great way to keep cool while maintaining your professional stature. If you intend to rock this look, be sure that both the blazer and pants are tailored and are made of a breathable, summer-friendly fabric.
 
The Peplum Top

I have recently become a fan of peplum tops. There's something so classy about them! I also like the fact that you can pair them with both pants and skirts. For the summer, check out the peplum top of the short sleeve or sleeveless variety.
 
The Sleeveless, Full-Bottomed Dress
I have previously sung the praises of full-bottomed dresses. After all, they are girly and comfortable, and the perfect for curvy girls like me. For the summer, try to find sleeveless full-bottomed dresses. Pair them with a variety of different belts and super high heels. Also, a cardigan can help you keep warm in a cold office.
 
The Linen Blend Wide-Legged Pant
Okay, it has long been settled that I am not a fan of linen. While I love the fact that this particular material is extremely cool in the summer, I hate the fact that it wrinkles quickly. This really sucks because wide-legged, linen pants are perfect summer wear for the office. The solution: try wide-legged pant in a linen blend...preferable cotton. This material will allow you to enjoy the benefits of linen (coolness) without all the wrinkles!
 
The Short-Sleeved Cardigan
Just as classic as a long-sleeved cardigan, except it's cooler! Not only will the short-sleeved cardigan pair well with tanks, but it also looks great with pants and skirts. It also can serve as a warmer when paired with your sleeveless dresses....for the cold office.
 
Funky Shoes
Warmer weather is a perfect excuse to purchase shoes (like we need an excuse). For the summer, try peep toes, sling backs, nude pumps, and classy sandals.

That's it for now Divas! What will you be wearing to the office this summer? Let me know in the comments section below. Have a great week!


Martini Break...Sydney Edition!!!

The Apple and Ginger Snap Martini

Greetings Divas and Gents! I know I've been out of the loop lately, but I've been vacationing! Yes, Professional Divas need a break every now and again, and I've decided to take one. I can't wait to get back to the proverbial ranch to share all the details with you all. In the meantime, I wanted to share a martini recipe with you all the way from Sydney, Australia! I have been here with the Stud over the past few days taking in the sites and getting some much needed R&R. Of course there is a bar in the lobby of our hotel that makes excellent drinks...including the Apple and Ginger Snap Martini! Believe me when I tell you that the Apple and Ginger Snap Martini is amazing! And, I think it would be an excellent cocktail to serve your guests at your Memorial Day barbeques. I have no doubt that you all will enjoy. So, without further adieu, check out the Apple and Ginger Snap Martini...live from Sydney!

Ingredients
2 oz Of Your Favorite Citrus-Flavored Vodka
2 oz St. Germain Eldenflower Liqueur
1 oz Ginger Beer
5 Green Apple Slices - Peeled (For Muddling)
5 Red Apple Slices (For Garnish)
Sugar (For Garnish)
Ice

Recipe
1. Muddle 5 Green Apple Slices in the bottom of a martini shaker for about 2 minutes.
2. Add Citrus-Flavored Vodka, Eldenflower, Ginger Beer, and Ice to the muddled apple slices. Shake!
3. Rim a chilled martini glass with sugar. Pour mixture into prepared martini glass.
4. Place Red Apple Slices on top of martini, and serve!

What do you think? Try it out and please let me know! I will be back home at the end of this week, and I can't wait to reconnect with you all. Have a wonderful and safe holiday weekend! And Drink Responsibly!


Specialists Women Should See in Their 20s, 30s, 40s and 50s

Greetings Divas! I came across the following Infograph on the Huffington Post and wanted to share it with you all in honor of National Women's Health Week. Very Informative! To view the entire article in the Huffington Post, Click Here!
In the spirit of sharing.......!

Courtesy of the Huffington Post



Have You Had Your Health Screenings?

Greetings Divas! As you may know, this week is National Women's Health Week! In honor of this week, I've decided that the Chronicles should encourage Professional Divas to make their health a top priority. Today I want to focus on preventative screenings that women should focus on during various stages of their lives. 

A few month back, I focused on a few of these screening in a Chronicle Quickie. This time, I would like to add a few screenings to the list...screenings that Office of Women's Health recommend for women. Now, this post is a little longer than usual, but it's full of useful information...I swear! Check them out, and feel free to add any thoughts in the comment section below. Enjoy!



Mammogram and Breast Examination – According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States, and is one of the leading causes of cancer death among women of all races. As such, the American Cancer Society recommends the following breast screening guidelines for most adults:

  • Starting at the age of 40, women should have yearly mammograms so long as the woman is in good health;
  • Women in their 20s and 30s should have a clinical breast exam about every 3 years;
  • Women should conduct regular breast self-exams starting in their 20s;
  • All women should know how their breast normally look and feel, and should immediately report any breast change to their health care provider. 
Please note that there are different breast screening recommendations based on a woman’s family history, genetic tendencies, or other factors. These women should speak with their doctor about the need for additional tests.


Bone Mineral Density Test - According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF), 80% of those affected by osteoporosis are women...yikes! In addition to getting the adequate amount of calcium and vitamin D and doing regular weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises, the NOF recommends talking to your healthcare provider regarding having a bone density test. This test, evaluates your risk of breaking bones before the fact, uses X-rays to measure how many grams of calcium and other bone minerals are packed into a segment of bone. The NOF recommends that women aged 65 and older have a bone density test. Additionally, the NOF suggests that postmenopausal women under age 65 who have risk factors for osteoporosis consider getting a bone density test as well.

Pap Tests and Pelvic Exams – According to the CDC, the number of cases of cervical cancer and the number of death from cervical cancer has significantly decreased over the past 40 years. This decline is largely attributed to women getting regular Pap tests and pelvic examinations. These tests are successful in finding cervical pre-cancer before it turns into cancer. As such, this screening is a MUST for women! The American Cancer Society recommends the following cervical screening guidelines for most adults:

  • All women should begin screening for cervical cancer about 3 years after they begin having vaginal intercourse, but no later than 21 years old. These screenings should occur every year with the regular Pap test, or every 2 years using the liquid-based Pap test; 
  • Beginning at age 30, women who have had 3 normal Pap test results in a row may get screened every 2 to 3 years;
  • Women older than 30 may get screened every 3 years with either the conventional or liquid-based Pap test, plus the human papilloma virus (HPV) test;
  • Women 70 years of age or older who have had 3 or more normal Pap tests in a row and no abnormal Pap test results in the last 10 years may choose to stop having Pap tests;
  • Women who have had a total hysterectomy may choose to stop having Pap tests, unless the hysterectomy was performed as a treatment for cervical cancer or pre-cancer; and
  • Women who have had a hysterectomy without removal of the cervix should continue to have regular Pap tests.
Again, there are different cervical screening recommendations based on a woman’s family history, genetic tendencies, or other factors. These women should speak with their doctor about the need for additional tests.


Colorectal Cancer Screening - According to the CDC, 69,917 women were diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2007, which accounts for about 49% of all newly-diagnosed cases (my math is horrible but I think I got it right). The CDC recommends that women aged 50 years and older have regular colorectal cancer screenings.

Blood Pressure ScreeningFact: High blood pressure can lead to heart disease and stroke, which are the 1st and 3rd leading causes of death in the United States, respectively. Fact: High blood pressure can also lead to congestive heart failure and kidney disease. Fact: One out of three adults in the United States has high blood pressure. Fact: High blood pressure is preventable! How you ask? In addition to adopting a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and being physically active, getting your blood pressure checked regularly is a great step towards prevention. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality recommends that women have their blood pressure checked at least every 2 years, so get tested!

Cholesterol Screening – Did you know that in the United States, more women than men have high cholesterol? According to the CDC, 10.3% of women age 20-34 and 12.7% of women age 35-44 suffer from high cholesterol. Need more numbers? Well, 19.7% of women age 45-54 suffer from high cholesterol. The interesting thing is that high cholesterol usually exhibits no signs or symptoms, but can increase your risk for health disease. How do you know if your cholesterol is high? You get a blood test! The National Cholesterol Education Program recommends that healthy adults have their cholesterol levels every 5 years. Have you had yours?

The National Women's Health Week website has an awesome interactive screening chart for women. I encourage you all to check it out!



Let's Celebrate National Women's Health Week!!!

Divas, get in here! It's time to celebrate National Women's Health Week! You heard me right! National Women’s Health Week 2012, which runs from May 13 - May 19, is a week long health observance coordinated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office on Women's Health. The purpose of National Women's Health Week is to bring together communities, businesses, government, health organizations, and other groups in an effort to promote women’s health. This year's theme: “It’s Your Time.” 

Don't you ladies love this!? It's our time to take charge of our health and make it a top priority. There's no secret that this is an issue that I am passionate about. As a Professional Diva, I am completely guilty of sometimes putting my career before my health...and I know I'm not the only one! Skipping meals because work gets in the way; neglecting to schedule your annual check-ups; ignoring that nagging pain or attributing it to stress or fatigue; claiming that you're too busy to get necessary screenings. Yes ma'am...Professional Divas...we are guilty! 

But it's okay! National Women’s Health Week is designed to empower women to make their health a top priority...even busy, professional women. According to the National Women's Health Week website, this week women are encouraged to take the following steps to improve their physical and mental health and lower their risks of certain diseases:


- Visit a health care professional to receive regular checkups and preventive screenings;
- Get active;
- Eat healthy;
- Pay attention to mental health, including getting enough sleep and managing stress; and
- Avoid unhealthy behaviors, such as smoking and not wearing a seat belt or bicycle helmet.

It turns out the many of these are topics that we talk about on the Martini Chronicles. We are so on it! In honor of this occasion, the Chronicles will focus on issues of women's health all this week. I hope that all of you spread the word, forward my posts to your friends, and take active steps towards prioritizing your health.

Now, without further adieu, let's kick off National Women's Health Week with a bang!

Divas, how do you all intend to commemorate this week? Share!


For more information on National Women's Health Week, please Click Here!

Martini Break!!!

Oatmeal Cookie Martini

Well...it's happened again. I find myself suffering from an ailment commonly referred to as a sweet tooth. And it really sucks! It sucks because I just spent an hour on the treadmill...seriously! So it would be extremely counterproductive for me to go eat a doughnut...or some cookies...or a Twix! Ugh!

Because I am in such a sweet mood, I figured I'd share with you all a dessert-worthy martini recipe. This week's recipe is none other than the Oatmeal Cookie Martini...I'll give you all a second to think about it and swoon...I'll wait....

I came across this recipe last year when I visited San Antonio for a conference. As you could probably tell from the name, it is really good! And it's a perfect drink to satisfy the occasional sweet tooth. Try the Oatmeal Cookie Martini, and let me know what you all think!

Ingredients

3 oz of Bailey's Irish Cream
2 oz of Goldschlager (Cinnamon Liqueur)
1 oz of Butterscotch Schnapps
Cinnamon Stick (For Garnish)
Ice

Recipe

1. In a shaker, combine Goldschlager, Bailey's, Butterscotch Schnapps, and Ice. Shake!
2. Stain mixture into a chilled martini glass.
3. Garnish with a cinnamon stick.

I hope that you all enjoy the Oatmeal Cookie Martini. I ask you to pray that my sweet tooth disappears soon...before I eat an entire bag of M&Ms. Enjoy! And Drink Responsibly!


What's In Your Work Bag?

Divas, what is in your work bag? Before you answer, please note that I am not talking about those common items you need for work, such as your work files, wallet, cell phone, and iPod. I'm asking about those other items that make your bag heavy. All the stuff that keeps you from finding your car keys, which have unfortunately disappeared into the abyss that is your work bag. What's in your work bag?

Well, as I fished through my humungous work bag last week for almost 5 minutes in search of my cell phone, I realized just how much unnecessary stuff I had in there...Splenda packets...2 pairs of sunglasses...a straw...one tic tac...an NYC MetroCard...spare change...and a pair of socks (don't ask!). As I sat and wondered how each of these items somehow found their way into my work bag, I started thinking about those items that every Professional Diva should actually have in her work bag. You know...those practical items that keep us prepared for any any every business hurtle we may encounter. After doing some quick brainstorming, I came up with the following 8 items:

1. Business Cards - This is just as much of a standard as your actual work files. You should always carry a set of business cards, in a snazzy business card holder, in your work bag. You never know when you're going to meet a new contact, and you do not want to be unprepared. Keep a few in your work bag, just in case. Also remember to check out Business Card Holder Basics!

2. Pens and a Notepad - I am well aware of the fact that many professionals are now using electronic tablets to jot down impromptu notes...it's just the way things work these days. Even though this new technology is readily available, it still cannot take the place of a simple pen and a notepad when you need to get something down quickly. Now, I'm not telling you to completely dump your electronics...all I'm saying is that you should have a pen and notepad as well.
 
3. Toothbrush, Toothpaste, and Floss - Have any of you ever been to a meeting and noticed a piece of lettuce in someone's teeth? Or spinach? Or a stray piece of meat from a spare rib? No? The wretched fact of the matter is that your lunch could possibly end up in your teeth...where everyone can see. And I won't even get into the calamity that is garlic breath. Eliminate the threat of post lunch embarrassment by keeping a travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste in your work bag. And some floss for those hard to reach places.

4. Touch Up Make Up - Assuming you wear makeup to work, you should always carry touch-up makeup in your work bag. You do not necessarily need your entire makeup case, but definitely carry some lip gloss or lipstick to keep your lips fresh, and compact powder to eliminate shine.

5. Spare Hosiery - You do not want to be caught out there with runs in your hosiery. Keep a spare pair of neutral, flesh-toned hosiery in your work bag just in case. 


6. Breath Mints - Not gum! Simple mints that can eliminate odor quickly...I don't see the need to elaborate any further.


 

7. Hand Lotion - Because rough hands and ashy elbows are not characteristics of a great outfit. And because the hand soap in the company restrooms make your hands dry and....anti-sexy! Keep a travel-sized tube of hand or body lotion in your work bag for occasions like these.
 
8. Hair Brush, Ties, and Pins - Every one of us have had a bad hair day (or twenty) at some point in our lives. If your hair decides to misbehave at the most inopportune time, you can grab your hair brush, a hair tie, and some hair pins, and pull your hair into a bun...or a fancy chignon...whatever you like! If your hair is on the shorter side, use your hair brush and hair pins to pull it back off your face. All of this is made possible by the fact that you actually have a hair brush, hair ties, and hair pins in your work bag!

So now I ask you Divas....what's in your work bag, and why?


Quick Meals For A Busy Diva!


Divas! Our busy work day should not get in the way of a healthy, filling lunch! Here is a quick lunch that you can make just before you walk out of the door in the morning. It's also easy to grab out of the refrigerator at work when you're ready for lunch. This recipe yields two servings, so feel free to split it up so that you have lunch for two days...or you can share with your partner or co-worker...or you can eat it all at once...no judgment! Ready, set, GO!

Ingredients
1 Cup of Elbow Pasta, dry
1 Can of Chunk Light Tuna in Water, drained
2 Tablespoons of Sweet Relish
1½ Tablespoons of Sandwich Spread
1½ Tablespoons of Miracle Whip 
Salt, Pepper, and Paprika to Taste 

Recipe
1. The evening before you want to make the Tuna Macaroni Salad, boil 1 Cup of Elbow Pasta, drain, cover, and place in the refrigerator to chill overnight.
2. In the morning, add the rest of the ingredients to the chilled pasta and stir until evenly distributed.
3. Place your Tuna Macaroni Salad in a disposable container...grab your lunch, keys, work bag, and sunglasses, and head off to work.

Simple and quick! Now you won't be forced to eat unhealthy fast food for lunch. Enjoy! And have a great weekend!



Smart Phone Apps For The Traveling Diva!

Greetings Divas! First, I would like to apologize to you all for being incognito, but the Pro Diva has been busy! In addition to working my daily 9 to 5, I've been putting a few things in place for a bigger, better, more fabulous Martini Chronicles...I can't wait for you all to see what's on the horizon!

I've also been doing quite a bit of traveling as of late, which is an exhausting task in itself. It just so happens that I came across this ARTICLE while I was on one of my recent journeys. The article discusses 5 Money-Smart Apps for Business Travelers. Being the inquisitive Diva that I am, I checked them all out just in time to give you all my opinion...okay you didn't ask for my opinion, but I'm going to give it anyway!

The App - Foursquare
The Skinny - Allows you to "check-in" to various locations around the globe. In doing so, you may stumble upon a few deals offered by merchants who have teamed up with the FourSquare folks.
The Verdict - FourSquare is my personal fave on this list. I use it everyday, and I have personally benefited from the various deals that some merchants have offered just for checking in. This is also a great app when you want to discover what establishments are in your surrounding area. Pretty useful when you are in a strange city. The most important thing about FourSquare...it's incredibly fun, and it feels great to get new badges! FourSquare.com

The App - HelloWallet
The Skinny - Similar to Mint's personal finance manager, but the basic version with cost you about $9 per month. Allows to track your finances and create budgets.
The Verdict - It seems pretty cool, but I refused to pay the subscription fee to give you all an in depth review. For more info, check out HelloWallet.com.

The App - TurboScan
The Skinny - It allows you to use your camera phone to scan documents, receipts, notes, whiteboards, and other text. You can then store and/or email the item as multi-page PDFs or JPEG files. Price: $1.99
The Verdict - Great app if you find yourself stuck in the airport with work to do. It's like a scanner in your pocket! TurboScan is only available for iPhones, but there are many similar alternatives on the Android market.

The App - Cardmunch
The Skinny - Similar to TurboScan, but made especially for business cards. It allows you to take a picture of business cards you acquire while attending professional events, and send it to a service that transcribes the information on the card.It then files the information in any contact management program.
The Verdict - Why didn't I think of this! Sure it may seem lazy to not want to import your own contacts, but who cares? Not me! It seems like a great idea to keep yourself organized, and it helps you to remember to enter your contacts. Great app, but it's only available for iPhones...Boooooooooo! Never fret Android users...there's a similar app for you. Try BizcardArmy.

The App - Kayak
The Skinny - Searches for cheap flights, hotels, and rental cars (the Travel Trifecta), and compares different rates. Also provides airline and airport information, and a currency exchange calculator.
The Verdict - Kind of awesome! Perfect for the business traveler looking for inexpensive traveling rates, some of which may have to be done while running between terminals in a pair of high heels. Its great for impromptu or unexpected travel. And it's free! For more info, check out kayak.com

Your turn! What are some of your favorite traveling apps? Share!


 
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