New Year, New You- Following through with your New Years Resolutions

I would be willing to bet, every year at least 90 % of Americans make New years resolutions. With the year winding down it’s time to get ready to act on these resolutions. We all have the intentions of following through with them, but it is so easy to lose sight of the changes you intend to make. Here are some suggestions on following thru with your New Years Resolutions: 

1. Make Realistic Resolutions- Don’t expect to become a millionaire in a year, or lose 100 lbs, or become a vegetarian over night. Make measurable, realistic resolutions. For example- The 3 aforementioned “goals” are kind of my resolutions- I’d like to save more money, get into better shape, and eat more healthy. So instead of having exact expectations of your resolution, just generalize what you’d like to achieve. 

2. Claim it- Speak of your resolutions as if you have already acheived them. Instead of saying- "my new years resolution's are to get rich, and lose weight....,' Say "Since it is a new year, I am getting rich, and losing weight." You have to think positive and already claim that you are aceheiving your resolutions. The key to getting anything accomplished is believing you can do it. What better way to believe than speaking as if it is already achieved.  

3. Share Them- I’ve been seeing posts on social media making fun of people who are making resolutions this year-Ignore them. I bet those people are at a stand still in life and have no drive or plans for their future. I can’t speak for anyone else, but I don’t want to be in the same position in my life next year. Sharing your resolution will allow you to be accountable for your words. It will motivate you to want to achieve what you say you are going to do.

4. Keep your Eye on the prize- Keep your written resolutions where your can see them. It will be a constant reminder that you WILL reach your goals. I personally will be making a pretty framed list of my resolutions and placing it on my dresser, that way every time I get ready, I will be remininded of my resolutions.

5. Keep a Journal- I know journals are very cliché and kind of weird. I used to keep a journal when I was younger and write EVERYTHING in it.. I stopped because one time I left it at a friend’s house after a sleepover and I know they read it. LOL! I was so embarrassed, although my friend never brung it up. Not only that, I know my mom and brother used to always read it too. But if you make the journal specific to your resolutions. It shouldn’t be embarrassing ;-). I'd suggest writing every month highlighting what you've done to contribute to your resolution. This will allow you to track your progress, while keeping your eye on the prize. Please share with me your resolutions below in the comments! I'd like to see what everyone is wanting to change. Mine are- 

Eat healthier by Meal Prepping

Excercise more 

Follow a strict budget

 Read more books 

 Strengthen my religious beliefs.

Lets make 2014 better than 2013! 

Xoxo,

Joia

Daddies of Little Girl's - Please Read

Original post from Tara Hedman, 'Hope for Lifes's Journey.

So, to all the daddies with little girls who aren’t old enough yet to ask for what they need from you, here is what we wish you knew:

1. How you love me is how I will love myself.

2. Ask how I am feeling and listen to my answer, I need to know you value me before I can understand my true value.

3. I learn how I should be treated by how you treat my mom, whether you are married to her or not.

4. If you are angry with me, I feel it even if I don’t understand it, so talk to me.

5. Every time you show grace to me or someone else, I learn to trust God a little more.

6. I need to experience your nurturing physical strength, so I learn to trust the physicality of men.

7. Please don’t talk about sex like a teenage boy, or I think it’s something dirty.

8. When your tone is gentle, I understand what you are saying much better.

9. How you talk about female bodies when you’re ‘just joking’ is what I believe about my own.

10. How you handle my heart, is how I will allow it to be handled by others.

11. If you encourage me to find what brings joy, I will always seek it.

12. If you teach me what safe feels like when I’m with you, I will know better how to guard myself from men who are not.

13. Teach me a love of art, science, and nature, and I will learn that intellect matters more than dress size.

14. Let me say exactly what I want even if it’s wrong or silly, because I need to know having a strong voice is acceptable to you.

15. When I get older, if you seem afraid of my changing body, I will believe something is wrong with it.

16. If you understand contentment for yourself, so will I.

17. When I ask you to let go, please remain available; I will always come back and need you if you do.

18. If you demonstrate tenderness, I learn to embrace my own vulnerability rather than fear it.

19. When you let me help fix the car and paint the house, I will believe I can do anything a boy can do.

20. When you protect my femininity, I learn everything about me is worthy of protecting.

21. How you treat our dog when you think I’m not watching tells me more about you than does just about anything else.

22. Don’t let money be everything, or I learn not to respect it or you.

23. Hug, hold, and kiss me in all the ways a daddy does that are right and good and pure. I need it so much to understand healthy touch.

24. Please don’t lie, because I believe what you say.

25. Don’t avoid hard conversations, because it makes me believe I’m not worth fighting for.

It’s pretty simple, really. Little girls just love their daddies. They each think their daddy hung the moon. Once in a while when you look at your little gal twirling in her frilly skirt, remember she’ll be grown one day. What do you want her to know about men, life, herself, love? What you do and say now matters for a lifetime. Daddies, never underestimate the impact of your words or deeds on your daughters, no matter their age.

Thank you Tara Hedman for sharing this. Go check out her wonderful blog here.

I can't wait till me and my husband have children,  especially a little girl. I love this so mich because this would be my dad today, if he was still alive. Every single point is oh so true. I'm thankful I had my daddy for 12 years. He taught me so much and the man I'm marrying will share the exact sentiments with our future daughter. ♥♥

Must Have Beauty Products- Cosmetics

I’ve never been big on wearing makeup, but these products are a must have (at least try) for all women. Since I am not the one to wake up every morning and allow enough time to “put on my face,” I would say I am a qualified judge of whats great and whats not, seeing how I only allow myself 3 min max to get it done. And if it looks good in that short amount of time, its a must have. My results are always the same… Fabulous!

I don’t use foundation very often, only if I'm going out on the town, and even then its very minimal. This is the only product I will experiment with. Also, in the summer my skin tone changes, so I'm always trying to find a new one. Lately I have been using Maybelline’s Fit Me and I like it. For now.

Victoria's Secret Airbrush FX face primer. Primers are used to creat a smooth canvas (face) so all makeup applied goes on smooth, and lasts longer. Generally, they diminish pores and fine lines creating the illusion of baby bottom smooth skin. When I use this VS primer it controls my shine and creates a matte finish as well.

Benefit They're Real Mascara is so official! This is THE BEST MASCARA IN THE WORLD. Never clumps, its super intense, easy application, lasts all day.. I swear I could go on and on. Anything you can think of good to say about mascara- It applies to Benefit's They're Real.

As you see, most of my go to makeup is MAC- I really love this line. Nothing I’ve ever tried has disappointed me- (except I tried their matchmaster foundation- I would never recommend this to anyone.. in pictures it looks terrible. And everyone knows I love me some seflies.)  

MAC Mineral Skin Finish- Most days this is my “foundation” (according to MAC, A luxurious domed face powder with minerals, slowly baked to provide a dimensional yet natural-matte finish. Provides perfect low coverage. Use to set and fix foundation or as a touch-up throughout the day. ) It's the bomb!

Face contour- I use the MAC blush in Blunt . If you are unfamiliar with contouring, google it. It gives you a more chizzled look. I only spend about 1 minute, doing the hollows of my cheeks, and the sides of my nose\, So we're aren't talking Kim K contoured, lol.

Photo cred- Makeup By Nakimah & GGF

Lipstick- MAC Ruby Woo- I wanted to show yall this red lipstick because its so perfect. I remember back in my day (90's and 2000's,) red lipstick wasn't very popular, especially for us Brown Sistas. Making the biggest comeback from when M.A.C was first debuted by Madonna on her "Like a Virgin Tour in the 80's," in 2009, Lady GaGa made it the new "IT" lip. Just in case you needed a suggestion on a goo Red Lip, you're welcome. I will do a more detailed post soon, but in the meantime check out this cool article in ELLE MAGAZINE, History of Red Lipstick

Rockin Ruby Woo- Makeup by Donoma

Eyeshadow- Im not really big on eyeshadow so I havn't spent my coin on the Urban Decay Naked pallette. Why? $50 for eyeshadows is a lot to me especially when I can get 500 colors from sephora for $20. I can create the same looks (if I knew how lol,) with my Physicians Formula Naturual Nude Eye Palette. This baby was $10.99 from CVS and I'm sure I used Extra Bucks so it eas even cheaper. Love it!

Untitled #8 by joiastarr featuring Physicians Formula

MAC Cosmetics blush
nordstrom.com

Victoria s Secret makeup
victoriassecret.com

MAC Cosmetics concealer
nordstrom.com

Benefit mascara
bloomingdales.com

Physicians Formula eye makeup
target.com

Maybelline makeup
maybelline.com

MAC Mineralize Skinfinish SOFT AND GENTLE
amazon.com

Glam Gold Holiday Attire

Glam Gold Holiday Attire by joiastarr featuring a white cape

Hervé Léger bandage dress
mytheresa.com

Harrods white cape
$2,250 - harrods.com

Christian Louboutin pumps
saksfifthavenue.com

Jimmy Choo clutch
jimmychoo.com

ERICKSON BEAMON pearl necklace
net-a-porter.com

Lancôme lips makeup
nordstrom.com

Christian Dior nail polish
lordandtaylor.com

New Years Eve Low Budget > No Budget

I don't know about y'all, but I am on a budget. But, even if I didn't have a budget my outfit would still be the low budget one, although I probably would splurge on those zanotti's..... Only if they were on sale because Joia pays regular price for NADA.

New Years Eve Low Budget > No Budget by joiastarr featuring a black dress

Joseph black dress
farfetch.com

Black dress
societyofchic.com

Giuseppe Zanotti sandals
giuseppezanottidesign.com

2b peep toe pumps
2bstores.com

Destination Felicity Presents: Positive Vibes Book Club

 I am not an avid reader- Matter of fact, I can count on both hands how many books I’ve read start to finish. I know you are probably like, “did you go to school?” Lol, well that’s what they made cliff notes for! I have longed to become a book-worm and I think being part of a book club is a great way to do so! Positive Vibes Book Club will focus on readings for the soul! The few books I have read, I finished in a few days or less and that is how you know you’re reading a good book. I hope the books we read will have this effect but I can assure we will engage in conversations about each book we read and be able to apply it in our everyday lives, in a positive way.

 Being a part of this E-club comes with perks! 

I will provide each member with a PDF copy of the book of the month. You can read it on any tablet or print it out, whichever you prefer. Also, each member is invited to contribute in monthly discussions and as an incentive to do so, the person with the most insightful contribution each month will get a prize. YAY for prizes! Id like to complete 1 book a month having the discussion begin the last 2 weeks of the month. To join the club all you have to do is comment on this post, "I'm in"  and subscribe to this blog by entering your email address on the home page. If its easier for you to just email me please do so at joia@destinationfelicity.com. Thats all! Please join by January 5th.

This will be our first read. Once you join the club, I will email a PDF copy to the email address used for subscribing. Thanks and I can't wait to radiate positive vibes with you all!

Xoxo,

Joia

Whats for Dinner? Rosemary Garlic Baked Chicken, Parmesan Roasted Potatoes & Sauteed Squash and Zucchini



 Eating healthy can be really great, or really boring. I personally can not eat the same thing every day, that is why it is difficult for me to meal prep. I like some variation. Here is an idea for a very healthy meal with a flavorful veggie side that's easy to make, and perfect to add to your meal prep or dinner menu. Also, my weakness- potatoes, Parmesan roasted to be exact.


Sauteed Squash and Zucchini



      Ingredients:

• 4 to 5 zuchinni
• 4 to 5 yellow squash
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons sliced onions
• Garlic Powder
• Salt
• Ground black pepper

 Slice zucchini and squash.. I'd say about 1/4 inch thick. Heat olive oil and saute onion until tender. Add zucchini and squash. Toss until tender and crisp, about 8 minutes.  Add salt, pepper and garlic powder to your liking. Turn off heat and cover allowing mixture to soften. About 10 minutes. ENJOY!

I love squash and zucchini... It is so flavorful and is a great texture.. You can play around with this recipe and add tri-color peppers, and even potatoes...... Stay tuned the recipes for the other items mentioned above.

• About 6 to 8 medium red or gold potatoes, peeled and cut in 1/2 inch cubes
• 4 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp garlic salt
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper 
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried leaf thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried leaf basil
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Preheat oven 425 degrees. Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mix. Transfer to an olive oil greased baking dish and bake for 35-50 min on the top rack. ENJOY!

The potatoes will form a crispy goodness on the outside and be tender and moist on the inside. YUMMYYY!

Non Negotiable- Must have Beaty Product Week

I'd like to say that products I am going to highlight this week, I will ALWAYS have on hand. I never run out and have a backup on reserve. Every girl has those beauty products that they feel they could never live without, and even though they are loyal to these particulars, they will wander off into product land to find the next best thing- Not me. I don't want to try anything new, or find one better, because there isn't any replacement. What are your Non-negotiable beauty must haves?

I'll start off with my face cleansers and moisturizers.

Buf Puf / exfoliating pads - I have only got a facial once in my life. After dishing out $65 dollars the best part to me was the head an shoulder massage. Aside from having Eczema, which causes dry areas(The reason why I can not live wthout emollients) in various places of my body, my face is pretty normal. Due to the Eczema, particularly when the seasons change I have flare ups which affect my face. Using the miracle face exfoliator helps to keep my face smooth and gets rid of any dry areas instantly. I like to buy the disposable ones in bulk from Amazon, or if you want to try them ASAP and can't wait, they sell them also at CVS. They are very exfoliating so I use only once a week. Since I have my other products I alternate between, its not necessary for me to use them everyday.

                 

Aveeno Clear Complexion Daily Cleansing Pads- These are so convienent and perfect for all skin types. One side is more abrasive for the perfect gentle exfoliation. I alternate washing my between these, and Simple Facial cleansing wipes. I love the simple wipes just as much as the Aveeno pads. There's no specific reason I alternate, I just like to switch it up.

Moisturizer- I don't have a specific one I stick to. I'm always trying defferent ones. I use a lot of Vaseline, and Eucerin cream, but lately I have been loving the Simple Vital Night cream. 

''Live the life you love, Love the life you live''

If you took a poll asking a group of people what "living life to the fullest" meant to them, I'm pretty sure every persons answer would be different. For me, I like to plan things. Sure I may be a procrastinator and not accomplish the goals set for myself right away, but living life to the fullest, means to me accomplishing every goal I set. In order to accomplish anything positive in life, I believe you must love yourself, and your life beforehand. No matter what situation you are currently in, love it. Love is defined as an "intense feeling of deep affection," so if you go thru life with an I dont care attitude, there is no possible way to love anything. Even if something isn't going the way you planned, be thankful for the experiences that allowed you to realize its not going right. For those moments will allow you to not let it happen again, and if it does, you can only blame yourself. But even then, love it even more this time around! Some may say, "my life is so terrible, how could I love it? I would love it if it got better..." Well let me tell ya, What you are going thru, is not half as bad as what other people in the world are facing. Always remind yourself, any day above ground is a good day- and a day to make an effort to make life better.

I always start posts and finsh them up at a later time... After I started this post I was talking to one of my best friends. I swear we are like eachothers personal counselors and she's been a great influence in a lot of life decisions. Recently we've been discussing her outlook on life and how sometimes she feels like she may be depressed and it has hindered her in ways such as connecting with people, getting out of the house, and basically just becoming an introvert, when I've always known her to be the outgoing social butterfly. She came to the conclusion that she needs to change her attitude and is sure that will help with her self diagnosed depression. I TOTALLY AGREE! A lot of times people who are unhappy have a very negative attitude, which only make personal issues worst. She then told me she got the book Joyce Meyers, "Battlefield of the Mind." We came up with the awesome idea that we are going to start a book club and I wanted to share it with you guys too!

We all need some uplifting in our lives and I first suggest going to church. If you're not religious or spiritual, thats fine, but please find a happy inspirational place, that nurtures your mind and soul. One sugesstion is to try a non-denominational church... Here in San Antono, I go to Community Bible Church, and I would describe it as a "super church" becuase its huge. Check out the link to see all they have to offer. There are probably well over 1,000 members. Anywho, this place is awesome! They have so many outreach programs, and small groups, and services include a live band and its not too "churchy" or holy. Its simply a place to worship and make you feel good... and one of the things that made me really love this church and recommend it to everyone is they don't pass the collection plate around. Their "collection plate" is in one central location so you never feel bad if its passed to you and you're not able to give that day.

Our book club will select books that put us in a happy place, and influence us to live life to the fullest. As mentioned our first book is going to be

"Battlfield of the Mind" by Joyce Meyers

.. A perk of being a part of this club is you don't have to buy the books!!! (only electronic version availivble.) I will send out the E Version to anyone who'd like to participate in our discussions! Please comment below or email me if you'd like to join. I will be making another post on how the club will function, and the date we will have our first discussion. Since alot of my friends are out of town, It will be online. Can't wait :-)

-Joia

"Jays on my feet" How to rock your #Taxi12s

"Jays on my feet" How to rock your #Taxi12s by joiastarr featured in miley cyrus looks

Lulu and Co leather jacket
net-a-porter.com

Jessica simpson shoes
heels.com

Emma Fox leather purse
macys.com

Nothing-But-Net-Faux-Leather-Joggers BLACK REDBLACK - GoJane.com
gojane.com

Back to the regularly scheduled program......

Hey yall... So i've been steady coasting toward Destination Felicity and I can say I am pretty content with my pace. I know, I know, yall are wondering why I havn't I been posting lately... well I am not going to make up an excuse.. I just have not. I definitely can't say I havn't had enough time becuase if Beyonce can drop a surprise album with 14 songs and 17 videos, my regular self can make a blog post at least 5x a week. So forgive me people I took enough time off to "get my life together," and I will be back on DF regulary. I have been taking many and plenty photo's and have lots to tell you about from new destinations I've visited to some yummy recipes. Stay with me my beutiful people, you won't be dissappointed!

Multi-Function BCBG Wrap Dress

Sunday I visited a friends Church and went out to Brunch with my mom. I wore one of my favorite BCBG dresses, which can be worn on many different occasions. This is a wonderful piece to have in your closet! The print I wore is from a previous season, which I paired with my Steve Madden T strap Sandals I found at Macys for $13.00 and my purse for the week, Emma Fox black and white Tote which I got from TJ Maxx for $159.99. See my Polyvore below (and follow me while you're at it,) If you need info on ordering these items.

Multi-Function BCBG Wrap Dress by joiastarr featuring a statement necklace

BCBGMAXAZRIA black tie dress
bcbg.com

Vince Camuto pumps
lordandtaylor.com

Emma fox handbag
macys.com

Statement necklace
etsy.com

"I Have a Dream....."

On this day 50 years ago, The March on Washington took place. During this event Dr. Martin Luther King delivered his memorable and moving "I have a Dream" speech, which was a heartfelt request of the nation to end discrimination. In commemoration of this rousing petition, President Obama will deliver a speech as well, and I am very eager to hear the content. Has America progressed on the road to deliverance from racial discrimination? Some may say yes based on the election of President Obama alone. While the election of a Black President forever marks a civil rights "achievement," and symbolizes aspects of Dr. Kings dreams, it does not change America's circumstance. Let's see if Obama will adress the enormity of issues still prevalent today. Watch the "Let Freedom Ring Ceremony" today on CNN at 2:45. I must mention if my dad was still living, I know for sure he would be in attendance, and I'd be right along with him.

 Equality is definitely required for smooth traveling on the road to Felicity, can you contribute?

Destination: VIVA LAS VEGAS!

Outside of the Mirage

Howdy Folks! So this past June, I spent 4 wonderful days in beautiful Las Vegas, Nevada. I can honestly say I had the time of my life! I made some some great new friends, (Entry coming soon about NEW FRIENDS, Drake is a joke!) celebrated the union of 2 wonderful people and just had an all around exciting, care free time.

I was invited by my friend Jackie to attend the wedding of her friends Cynthia and Steve. Total, there were about 20 awesome people that attended to celebrate the joyous occasion. We all had an absolute ball. We pretty much partied and acted a fool the entire time! If you have never been, I highly suggest you add this memorable place to your "to visit" list ASAP. Make sure you plan to get extremely intoxicated and have the most fun you could ever imagine! I would suggest going with a group of at least 4 people so expenses can be split, because it can get expensive if you want to "do it big", and the more the merrier. My wonderful friend Jackie is originally from Chicago and all of the people that attended were as well, and when I tell you they know how to party, We showed out! I can't wait until we visit Vegas again next year as we have already planned our voyage. Although we didn't get to do any site seeing due to extreme foolery and party exhaustion, I can suggest some great restaurants and clubs to hit up while you are there. Every event we attended was uniquely extravagant so make sure to check them out when you make the trip. Below I have included links that will have you well on the was to planning your whole vacay!

Hotel- The Venetian Hotel (Rated 5 stars) 

Since this is the only hotel I've stayed at in Vegas I can not compare it to any others, But it was VERY nice, and had many amenities, restaurants, shopping, clubs, YOU NAME IT... Also, compared to other hotels in the vicinity, as far as appearance it was very "luxurious". 1 complaint- It's massive! To get to our room we had to go up 2 different elevators, 2 security checks, zipline, skydive, and then hop a couple of fences.

Restaurants-
Grand Luxe Cafe- Think of Cheesecake Factory on a low dose steroid. Check out the Menu.

Lavo- 1 word- MEATBALLS.

Cravings Buffet- Located inside of the Mirage; this is the first time in my life I had crab legs that were already split open. Hallelujah!  Every dish I tried at this buffet tasted as if Jesus himself prepared it. We also went a 2nd time during Breakfast, which included unlimited mimosas!

Clubs

Partying in the pool at Tao Beach

Tao/Asian Bistro/ Night Club & Beach- This is an actual night club, as well as an outdoor pool party. The club is beautiful. The decor is an Asian theme and its massive. I'd suggest getting VIP because when we had to leave our area to go to the restroom, it was like a mosh pit! As for the pool party; Awesome energy and the music alone makes you feel like you are at MTV spring break. In order to sit at the bar you must continue to buy drinks and food. I only tried the wings which were great! For an actual cabana you have to pay an outrageous astronomical price. Not exactly sure how much.

Tryst- This was the first nightclub we attended of the trip, and this club is simply amazing!
The outdoor area is unbelivably beautiful and dancing on what feels like the lake with a waterfall in front of you gives you an out-of-body-experience feeling. I thought I was Beyonce on the beach
 in the Baby Boy video!

These are only a couple of the hundreds of clubs and restaurants to visit in LV. If you've been before, what are some of you favorite spots?

Who doesn't LOVE Pizza?

 Healthy Personal Pizza

I don't think I've ever met anyone that doesn't like pizza. If you are one of those people, please let me know what planet you're from! While pizza may be a fave of many folks, it is very fattening and when done just right, (for me: bacon, sausage, pepperonni, banana peppers, onions, and don't tell me Hungry Howies. 2 words- BUTTER. CHEESE.) packs a bazillion calories. Try this under 500 calorie alternative:

Very easy to store in a Tupperware for lunch!

Ingredients:

• Low calorie tortillas 
• Mozzarella Cheese
• Veggies of your choice
• Meat of choice ( I like to use turkey pepperoni and turkey breast slices)
• Low Calorie spaghetti/ pizza sauce

Turkey Pepperoni. 40 calories for 6 slices!

Instructions: (For the people who are from a different planet)

1. Preheat oven to 350 F
2. Spray cooking sheet with olive oil non-stick spray
3. Spoon out about 2 table spoons of sauce on each tortilla and spread evenly
4. Add veggies, then cheese and the meat on top
5. Bake for 10-15 minutes, until edges are golden brown.
6. ENJOY!