Anand Bhatt's Ready For the Red Carpet
Host of the TV Show Rock Star Recipes and the 1st Indian-American to walk the Latin Grammy Red Carpet, Anand Bhatt brings us the inside scoop & behind-the-scenes on Everything from Kitchen and Fitness Hacks, who's wearing what, the latest fashion and beauty trends, Inspiration on how celebs keep it together under stress, and more!
I might be the first non-white musician to be invited to Sweetwater, as we can see here from their Hall of Fame. EVERY picture on the wall is of a 50+ White Male. Ha, not even white women let alone non-white folk: Old White Dudes, every one of them LOL.
Companion robots just might be the coolest invention of the modern age. But are they worth the price tag? Let’s start getting to know one of them and find out!
Could we expect a night of predictability or one of surprises?
As with any type of programming, the events set to occur are roughly planned out. Such is the case for the Academy Awards. The predictability of what audiences have come to expect is almost routine. Without a doubt, we are bound to be presented with a dazzling showcase of celebrities in beautiful gowns and tailor-made suits.
Fans from across the globe wait with bated breath as their favourite celebrities grace the red carpet with their presence accompanied by escorts such as their spouses, significant others or even parents and children.
For the most part despite the predictability of the pre-show festivities bring an air of excitement into the air. After all, it’s impossible to know which A-lister is going to be given the honour of attending, who they’ll be with and what they’ll be wearing.
Most likely winners and maybes
Without a doubt, only the best of the best movies, directors, celebrities and everyone else responsible for making the movie a masterpiece, are lucky enough to snag a nomination. However, there’s always going to be one contender whose risen to such esteem that they are no longer recognized as simply being the nominee, but an obvious winner as well.
Best Picture
After taking a look at the contenders for one of the greatest honours of the evening. It seems to be a pretty fair prediction that Call Me By Your Name could indeed take home the prize. This decision shouldn’t come as a surprise given the high numbers it reached the box office and ever-growing fan base it’s established. If this is indeed the case it doesn’t look too good for The Post despite the amount of publicity it’s generated.
Nevertheless, one fact that can’t be denied is, The Post has the great Steven Spielberg on their side. It’s impossible to deny the fact that the blockbusters he’s created are known for coming away with a bountiful array of awards.
At the end of the night, it could indeed be a toss-up.
Best Actor
Without a doubt, the race for best actor is clearly going to be neck and neck with competitors such as Tom Hanks, Daniel Day-Lewis and Denzel Washington just to name a few competing for the prize. Nevertheless, word has it another actor whose credentials match theirs may actually come away with the prize, Gary Oldman.
Even though Gary Oldman may be up against a pretty stiff competition it may be the many elements of his portrayal of Winston Churchill in the blockbuster hit Darkest Hour which wins him the award. After all, this movie seems to contain everything Oscar worthy.
From the heart-stopping scenes and powerful speeches, which gave Oldman the chance to shine. Clearly, the prize was is in the bag. Unless of course, we’re in for a few surprises and the award goes to newcomers such as Daniel Kaluuya.
Something which could truly be shocking is if the winner ends up being James Franco given the fact that he now faces allegations of sexual misconduct.
Best Actress
This is another category that could be a tough call. An obvious winner would probably be Meryl Streep for her portrayal of Kay Graham in the Post. Given her track record and other A-listers involved in the film. This outcome to indeed be a given.
Nevertheless, it’s hard to ignore the other actresses she’s up against who could get their moment in the spotlight. These ladies are hardly novices to hit movies or high esteem recognition in the film industry. These ladies or everything that echoes everything positive about Hollywood, Kate Winslet, Emma Stone Michelle Williams.
Or perhaps it could go to a newcomer such as Margot Robbie or Jessica Chastain?
Best Director
With no official list of contenders being released perhaps making a high chance prediction may be rather difficult.
However, what if that wasn’t the case?
After all the nominees are up against one of the greats, Steven Spielberg who track record is a plethora of not only nominations but winnings. His very name echoes quality and a hit. Could this turn the tide in favour of The Post? If Spielberg ends up taking the prize this could certainly be a possibility.
Predictability is hardly a bad thing
No one can say that the more predictable winners haven’t earned the right to steal the show. However, one thing is clear in recent times Hollywood has truly shown moments which have shocked even the biggest players deep within the industry.
There’s always a chance that the outcome of the evening may shock everyone.
Mary Thompson
Best Springtime Fragrances
Winter may be at its peak now, but without a doubt, spring is right around the corner
It’s hard to believe that soon the snow and frost will melt and warm days, cool nights and showers will soon be in the forecast. Along with that comes cute shoes, pretty summer frocks and sexy yet sophisticated accessories to stay dry when those sudden downpours come.
Why not get a jump start on the season by giving these flowery fun scents a spritz?
If you can’t wait for the seasons to turn completely having a bit of spring in the air is still possible. In fact, it’s easier than ever. Perhaps these fragrances inspired by the season will help get into the spirit of it all.
Tiffany Eau de Parfum http://www.tiffany.com/fragrance/tiffany-fragrance/tiffany-eau-de-parfum-GRP09644: There’s a reason why classic scents and styles are able to stand the test of time. They’re practically perfect, no improvements are ever needed. After all, why mess with a good thing?
This fragrance is hardly what would be defined as a budget buy, but for special occasions or just days when a vintage style is what you’re in the mood for. This perfume is the best way to get things started.
Who knows paired with some capris and a guitar it may inspire some renditions of Audrey Hepburn’s version of Moon River?
Marc Jacobs Fragrances Daisy Rollerball Trio https://www.sephora.com/product/daisy-rollerball-trio-P424912?skuId=1981463&icid2=products%20grid:p424912: This choice may be a bit more palatable to your pocketbook. These light floral scents are evident through there adorable packaging.
What does each of the fragrance sets contain?
These light fresh scents are perfect for everyday use when just a hint of a fragrance is needed. What better way to start spring off than the light scent of jasmine, grapefruit, pear, blackberry, lychee, blue wisteria and coconut water?
Who knew so much fragrance could come at such a reasonable price?
Korres White Tea Bergamot Freesia ($44.50) https://www.sephora.com/product/white-tea-bergamot-freesia-P397633?skuId=1684372&icid2=products%20grid:p397633: Nothing illustrates femininity and elegance better than the light floral scent of freesia. Combined with a hint of white tea, white musk, cedarwood, jasmine and violet. It’ll leave you feeling fresh and clean all day long.
The combination leaves just a hint of floral that isn’t overpowering in the least. The price may not be completely economical but, just a few spritzes is all you need.
This product is an essential component of any woman’s vanity.
Clinique Happy ($52.00) https://www.sephora.com/product/clinique-happy-P122641?skuId=50492&icid2=products%20grid:p122641: This is my absolute favourite go-to fragrance. It’s still light and airy to use on a daily basis, but with just a little bit of citrus for a little more zing.
Think of it as a refreshing berry and grapefruit mimosa on a tropical Hawaiian beach. What could honestly be better than that?
So, while you’re waiting for happy hour to begin why not tease your scenes with just a whiff of a sweet tangy cocktail?
Philosophy Pure Grace Fragrance ($49.00) https://www.sephora.com/product/pure-grace-fragrance-P49706?icid2=similar%20products:p49706:product: This is the perfect fragrance option for those who are sensitive to fragrances. It may not have a lot of floral undertones as opposed to the slight hint of jasmine, but I just couldn’t resist putting on the list because it feels so fresh and clean.
The lightness of the fragrance is as overpowering as a puff of baby powder. Just when we thought it couldn’t get any better, the gentleness of the ingredients are suitable for even the most sensitive of skin. So much so that it’s also suitable for young children.
This is the perfect option for those mums on the go who want their kids to have a bit of fragrance as well.
Nina Ricci Nina Perfume ($39.68) https://www.perfume.com/nina-ricci/nina/women-perfume: This is one of those brands I feel doesn’t get enough recognition. Its classic musky scent of sweet apples and femininity just add a hint of allure without going over the top.
Don’t be fooled by its small size after all just a tiny bit gets the job done. No need to worry about it fading out through the day. This vintage scent is something that will never go out of style.
So why wait?
Start the season off with these scents that are perfect for a night in or out on the town. `
Mary Thompson
ARIES
Good news Aries! This month you will find it easier to get reach for the sky and materialize your dreams.
Your usual method is to pursue your passions and desires spontaneously. The planets will be adding practicality and organization to your audacious, daring, courageous and pioneering nature.
While you patiently scour the details (something you might not want to do), you can be sure that you will reach the stars.
So feel free to enjoy a clearly defined plan and harness the commitment to implement it.
TAURUS
It’s time to plant seeds and decide what you want to create in your career while enhancing your physical and emotional comforts above all else, the moon triggers the part of you that is ready to make changes that have been delayed for some time.
You know better than anyone else that it takes a lot to make changes that get you out of your comfort zone, but when you do, there’s no way to stop you.
What adds to this need to get out of your surroundings and limitations is that your eccentric friends may encourage you to give up all pretensions and be who you really are, even if it means challenging the status quo and rocking the boat a little.
GEMINI
Think about relationships this month, Gemini.
While there may be disagreements and discussions in your most intimate relationships, especially where you or those closest to you are not responsible for their lives, there is also the opportunity for greater honesty and intimacy if you yourself are willing to be honest and call it as you see it.
And after the next full moon, you will have more clarity and awareness of what it takes to make you feel safe and secure. Be open to love and support from others, especially when it is unexpected.
CANCER
I worry about you the most this month, Cancer. Please remember that all suffering is essentially in the mind. The key tho this month is to consciously decide to be your mother and father and know that YOU can decide to always be there for your inner child. It is up to you now if your inner child feels loved or hurt.
Leave the past in the past. It is important to remember that you have the opportunity to represent what you want most in your relationships .
And while the fight may not always feel comfortable because you think it threatens your security, you’ll feel more confident about yourself and stronger if you defend yourself.
LEO
It’s time to recreate your relationships and look at what you value most in your each of them, one at a time.
You may find that what once attracted you no longer does. Or, on the other hand, you might feel attracted to something or someone new.
You have the ability to connect this month with others – emotionally, psychologically, spiritually, financially, sexually. Be direct, direct and honest with those closest to you.
VIRGO
You’ll have a better time biting your tongue than usual this month, Virgo. Rather than analyzing every detail, it’s time to trust and go with the flow, especially in relationships. You may still harbor judgmental thoughts throughout the month, but you will have control over yourself. When valentine’s day rolls around you might actually have a good time – even if it doesn’t necessarily meet your expectations of what “should be.” ENJOY!
LIBRA
This month is not just about relationships with others – but your relationship with work, with money, with your health, with your car, etc. And, more important now, it’s time to restore the balance between your adult and your inner child. After all, you are in this life to create balance, harmony and teamwork and you exemplify the notion that we are all teaching what we most need to learn.
SCORPIO
Scorpio, you have the ability this month to either choose to be grounded or reach for the stars. If you want, you’ll have this anti-ADHD focused intensity that can manifest anything.
Are you introverted? Yo could find yourself withdrawing from the world to the cocoon and probing the depths of your psyche for a change.
Embrace thoughts and memories of the past, knowing that you can create a new life of greater passion by transforming any negative emotional baggage that you could still carry. And nobody understands you better than you.
SAGITTARIUS
Ugh I feel you fellow Sagittarians. wTF is going on?? Is it just me or does it feel like Mercury has been in permanent retrograde this whole year. Of course it’s not. I checked, still normal Mercury patterns. However, apply the same tactics as you would if Mercury were retrograde: Go with the flow, don’t be attached to anything you see falling apart, and control your excitement when you hear seemingly good news.
Most of the time, it is easy for you to see the glass half full because you know that there is meaning and purpose in everything, but the message for you now of the Universe is to dig deeper. Shri Ramakrishna says (very paraphrased) – go deeper, don’t just be satisfied with the treasure you’ve already found – go deeper, the jewels are at the bottom or further into the woods.
CAPRICORN
You may not feel it juse yetm, but now you’re literally unstoppable. Keep moving forward.
Be aware that you could easily step all over others in your desire to achieve your goals, however. But don’t walk on eggshells, we are all counting on you to challenge conventions. You can move away from the usual way of do things if you discover that there is a more innovative way to use your talents and resources.
AQUARIUS
This is your month to shine, Aquarius – it’s the time each year when your journey of life starts all over again. Take some time to love and appreciate yourself for a change BEFORE you think of others. I know it is counterintuitive to the “don’t be selfish” mantras society shoves down our throats but think of it like the oxygen masks on an airplane. When cabin pressure changes and masks drop – you are supposed to put yours on first before you can help someone else – because without your ability to survive you’ll also be useless to the person next to you. Appreciate your unique way of looking at the world and your desires to make changes for the benefit of everyone.
Before you can make dreams come true for a better world, it’s important to know what makes you happy. It works best in communities where everyone is encouraged to be what they really are. If you are not a part of it, use this New Moon energy to create one.
PISCES
It may not be clear what to do this month, Pisces – you may really feel like sequestering yourself before you let it all out on your birthday.
You will feel more comfortable in your skin by mid month.
You will develop more sensitivity towards others – which is good. Define personal boundaries without being inconsiderate.
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How to Say the Word YOGA – and learn What Yoga Actually Means.
The Many Benefits of Bath Salts
Mineral baths and hot springs delivered right to your door
As the number of toxins in the air increase, so do the chances of rashes and skin abrasions. With these come the implementation of prescription pills and creams that do work but, negative side effects sometimes fatal are also a part of the package.
Who knew that soaking in a bath could take the place of medication and a stack full of medical bills?
The funny thing about medical research is that the best remedies end up being found through natural resources rather than a mixture of potentially harmful ingredients. In order to achieve miraculous results without the negative side effects, most individuals have turned to soaking in hot springs and mineral baths.
However, not everyone has the luxury of going to the spa or up into the mountains as part of their regular skincare routine. That’s when bath salts come in to play.
Now it’s possible to get the healing properties of natural baths at home.
How easy is it to transform bath water into a natural spring?
All that’s needed is dissolving a couple of cups of bath salts into a warm bath and soak. Then let the liquefied vitamins and minerals do the rest of the work.
What types of benefits can anyone come to expect from utilizing the healing properties of bath salts?
One of the main benefits bath salts provide are the shedding of dead skin cells which help clear the way for new ones. This along with having moisturizing capabilities makes it a must-have for any skincare routine.
Ensuring that those who soak in this salted bath have healthy skin isn’t all the cleansing routines are capable of. Their minerals are also able to penetrate deep enough to cure muscle pains as well as encourage relaxation and relieve stress.
Can there be too much of a good thing?
In order to truly reap the benefits of soaking in salted baths, it’s crucial to know when to do it and how for how long. The key to success is choosing when to indulge. For instance, the summertime is ideal for soaking in a salted bath as opposed to winter.
After all, despite their moisturizing benefits, there’s also the chance of soaking too long and skin being dried out. Thus, it’s a lot more ideal to indulge during the summer when the air has a higher chance of containing moisture. Thereby, decreasing the chances of skin drying out too much which would be counterproductive to the positive results of the mineral bath.
When it comes to how often these soak sessions should occur in order to produce positive results once a week and not more is recommended. The length of time the bath occurs is also paramount to the success of the treatment. Around 12 minutes is how long the soaking process should occur.
If you must soak in bath salts in the winter, adding ½ of a moisturizing agent such as baby oil is highly recommended to significantly increase the skin softening effects. This is sure to leave skin soft and supple all week long.
Surely these regiments are a lot easier than booking a trip to a spa or hot spring?
It certainly is and a lot cheaper too. It’s common knowledge that booking any kind of trip can cost hundreds of dollars or more. Doesn’t it sound a bit more reasonable to invest instead in a container of bath salts whose prices only range from $25-50?
Are there any popular scents or highly sought out types of bath salts?
If keeping to a budget is a concern most individuals that regularly engage in these salted baths frequent Epson salts. Others who are willing to invest a bit more money may choose to indulge in a larger variety of floral scents such as lavender or chamomile. For a little more zing it may be fun to go with something fruity such as cherry or green apple.
Now doesn’t this seem a lot better than prescription medications as a viable solution?
If a small chance of drying skin depending on the time of year the baths are taken is the steepest price to pay. It sure sounds better than the fatal effects of any other prescription options.
So take a dip in a homemade mineral bath the effects may quite pleasant.
Mary Thompson
Gracias a mi amor <3 Becky G por dejarme hacer la remezcla de “Sola” #Latindian #Style
Watch the Vid, Get the song!
Value Sized Cosmetics
Why not get more bang for your buck?
It’s no secret to anyone that when trying to put a little bit away for a rainy day buying products whether it be cosmetics or food in economy size is a better choice budget wise.
Sephora, the world’s authority in beauty has always been the go-to source for hard to find high-quality cosmetics and toiletries. Along with this usually comes the realization that hardly any of the products are suitable for staying in a reasonably sized budget. On the contrary, their high quality usually matches their also astronomical prices.
As the times change, corporations have made a shift to conform too. Sephora is no stranger to this alteration in appearance in order to suit the needs of their loyal and ever-growing clientele of new customers.
One of the changes that come along with the world’s present economic status is accepting the reality that times are hard for everyone. Increasingly more, cuts are made and belts are tightened. With that being said it is purely common sense to come to terms with the fact that if retailers want to stay afloat they must also make changes.
These alterations come in the form of sales increasing, prices collapsing and bulk options increasing. It is, of course, crucial to making all of these alterations without jeopardizing the quality of the products.
Tactics such as those are essential for a company such as Sephora to adapt in order to avoid shutting their doors.
Sephora seems to have jumped onto the mega pack wholesale bandwagon
The big wigs at Sephora are not blind to the fact that people want to buy in bulk in order to save a few bucks, after all, every little bit can quickly add up. Here are just a few of their more popular products designed to save you money.
LANCOME Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover
The price may not seem economical at first glance. But at just a few soaked cotton buds at a time a 6.7 oz. isn’t bound to be used up anytime soon.
CINEMA SECRETS Makeup Brush Cleaner
In addition to spending a bundle on the latest cosmetics, in order to get the polished photo shoot look investing in high-quality brushes is essential as well.
For those of us who choose to spend $100 or more on a good set of brushes making sure that they stay in tip-top shape is on the top of any beauty priority list. What better way to accomplish this than through Sephora’s top seller cosmetic brush cleaner?
Without a doubt at just $39 this 32 oz. a bottle is sure to get the job done and then some.
MILK MAKEUP 
One of the biggest hazards of the icy winds that come with the winter season, is the inescapable nuisance of dry skin. Finding a good primer/moisturizer to make sure makeup goes on smooth and polished as opposed to rough and caky used to cost way too much for not enough product. However, those days are long gone.
The great thing about this product is its light texture won’t weigh your skin down or clog pores. These qualities make it suitable for use on skin even without makeup to create a bright fresh look. Or it can also create a smooth polished finish on top of makeup.
This product really is worth every penny, and because 30 ml truly is built to last a really long time given that it doesn’t take much in order to keep skin hydrated all day long. You can bet the savings are sure to add up.
Thoroughly researched and expert-approved
One of the biggest fears most people are up against when buying beauty products in bulk is whether or they’re truly worth the price. Anyone, choosing to purchase these economical sized versions of their beauty favourites can rest assured that without a doubt they’re please even the pickiest of shoppers.
Mary Thompson
“M” writes in and asks:
“Is It OK To Dislike Kevin Spacey? …. Problem is, I really liked the show House Of Cards, it is what I mainly know of Spacey for, I only really watched the show for his character Frank Underwood, was never really interested in his films, never seen him in a film. “
So here’s the scoop on Kevin Spacey, just because you feel he is talented and like the characters he plays on the screen doesn’t mean you’re condoning his actions off-screen as “Kevin Spacey the person” vs. “Kevin Space the actor” (who you may/may not have spent any time with in person). The truth is it is going to be difficult come to an easy like/dislike judgment in your mind based on his behavior, because when you watch his movies you are indirectly supporting him financially -but at the same time there is no reason to feel guilty about your feelings. Here’s why …
This is always a tough call for fans as well as his colleagues in Hollywood. Even the people that knew him personally and Liked him before, are wondering how they feel about him in light of new information. But here are three ways to step back and look at the big picture:
1 – Kevin Spacey when playing a character on the screen has nothing to do with him as a person. He is acting. And let’s face it, some of those characters are fun as hell. Should you feel guilty for enjoying his work? NO. – – – – HOWEVER, if you want to do something about stopping sexual harassment in Hollywood you should boycott watching movies altogether. Every time you stream a Kevin Spacey movie he (and probably Weinstein) and a lot of other such types make royalty $$$. If you can’t live with yourself for indirectly funding sexual harassers then YES, it is OK to dislike Kevin Spacey.
2 – Do you know Kevin Spacey personally? If no, then you might want to reconsider snap judgments about surface information you get from just the media instead of personal experience interacting with someone. If yes, then compare how you feel about him overall based on your experience. Robert Karadashian decided to stick by OJ through all that turmoil because of other experiences with him as a friend that made making a snap like vs. dislike decision difficult.
3- This is a bit of a spiritual answer, but Likes and Dislikes are products of your mind. They’re not your concern.
Again, having said all that – if you want to actually do something about sexual harassment: Re-read point #1.
