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UR IT Magazine January 2016

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JAN COVER<br />

1


CRED<strong>IT</strong>S<br />

CONTENTS<br />

Board of Directors:<br />

Jeremy Clark<br />

Shawna Lee<br />

Products:<br />

Kathy Ickes<br />

Janie Clark<br />

Photography:<br />

Shawna Lee<br />

Jeremy Clark<br />

Tiffanie Mora<br />

Sam Schoeny<br />

Editors:<br />

Adeena Harbst<br />

Taralyn Guenot<br />

Stacy Clark<br />

Writers:<br />

Adeena Harbst<br />

Jessica Martin<br />

Vivian Achieng<br />

Tiffanie Mora<br />

Faith Greathouse<br />

Janie Clark<br />

Christy Beck<br />

Advertisers:<br />

One 2 One Travel<br />

Boyer Insurance: Nationwide<br />

Traci Callahan Beauty Salon<br />

Esthetics by Faith<br />

Becks Psychotherapy<br />

Diva’s Bling Boutique<br />

5 Winter Fashion<br />

8 Brite: A Romance<br />

Story<br />

13 How Cell Phones Have<br />

Negatively Impacted Life<br />

16 How To Become A<br />

Successful Model<br />

21 Naturally <strong>IT</strong><br />

23 Get to Know <strong>UR</strong> <strong>IT</strong><br />

Model Shawna<br />

30 My Choice, Your Choice,<br />

Our Choice<br />

32 Kicking the Static<br />

Subscription Ad<br />

Layout/Design:<br />

Taralyn Guenot<br />

Jason Colón<br />

Tiffanie Mora<br />

Gazettes Printers<br />

34 Starting A Cottage<br />

Business... Is It For You?<br />

35 Goddesses of the Woods<br />

Shoot Coordinator:<br />

Shawna Lee<br />

39 Too Fast Too Soon:<br />

Signs Your Relationship<br />

Is Over<br />

2<br />

Hair & Makeup:<br />

Tori Long<br />

Kriste Kephart<br />

Advertising & Sales:<br />

Kristin Taranto<br />

Sara Wolfe<br />

Tiffanie Mora<br />

Jeremy Clark<br />

Shawna Lee<br />

Distribution:<br />

Vince Poeta<br />

Jessica Martin<br />

Yvonne Smith<br />

Julie Ricketts<br />

Jeremy Clark<br />

Shawna Lee<br />

Tiffanie Mora<br />

Quinton<br />

43 <strong>UR</strong> World, R Thoughts<br />

44 Reasonable Resolutions<br />

for the New Year<br />

47 This Month’s Taroscope<br />

What’s coming<br />

in February<br />

3


Are you the type of person that hates<br />

cold weather? During the winter<br />

months, we all want to look our best,<br />

but it’s just so hard to bundle up and<br />

still look great.<br />

The abundance of cold weather<br />

accessories (hats, gloves, scarves)<br />

can be overwhelming, and bulky<br />

sweaters, coats and boots can<br />

leave you looking like a big, fluffy<br />

marshmallow snow woman if you’re<br />

not careful. Winter fashion has it ups<br />

and it has it downs. Yet, you can still be<br />

as sexy in winter wear as you are in<br />

summer wear.<br />

Accessories are the best way to make<br />

an outfit pop. By adding a scarf to your<br />

winter attire, you not just only add warmth<br />

to your body while playing in the<br />

snow with family, but you also add an<br />

extra “wow” factor. Remember, you can<br />

wear a scarf many different ways so<br />

the idea is endless when it comes to this<br />

winter accessory.<br />

A simple, stylish cashmere<br />

sweater is the best winter<br />

investment; it is super<br />

warm and comfortable.<br />

If this isn’t in your budget,<br />

a light-weight sweater<br />

will do just fine. Just keep<br />

in mind to cut down on<br />

bulk, you don’t want<br />

a bulky sweater. A<br />

long-sleeved somewhat<br />

stretchy sweater — so<br />

you can still move<br />

while you throw on<br />

your cardigan or denim<br />

jacket — will set your look<br />

in a more casual and<br />

head turning way.<br />

Cardigan or denim jackets aren’t the<br />

only things you can wear that are<br />

season sufficient; fur vests are as<br />

well, if worn with a turtleneck with<br />

colors to match. Furs may sound<br />

old-fashioned, but old fashion is new<br />

fashion for this season’s trend.<br />

4<br />

5<br />

5


6<br />

Add leather to your wardrobe.<br />

Leather dresses and skirts are<br />

on-trend right now as well and<br />

are the perfect clothing to stay<br />

warm in. Find a leather skirt<br />

to match your fur vest and<br />

turtleneck, and you’re set<br />

to have perfect “night out”<br />

wear for dinner with your<br />

best friends.<br />

Pick the perfect pea-coat.<br />

Invest in a thigh-length peacoat;<br />

it will keep you warm in<br />

the winter winds. Or you can<br />

find a shorter pea-coat for a<br />

sassier look.<br />

If you still want to wear your<br />

summer attire, then re-purpose<br />

your summer wardrobe.<br />

Wear your strapless summer<br />

dress over a fitted black<br />

turtleneck top. This is a flawless<br />

way to extend your summer<br />

wardrobe and stay toasty.<br />

Add a pair of tall boots to this<br />

summer/winter wear. They’re<br />

fantastic in the winter for keeping<br />

your feet warm; especially<br />

since you can wear a thick pair<br />

of knee high socks. Stockings<br />

are a great way to keep your<br />

legs warm—they are the perfect<br />

addition to a winter wardrobe,<br />

and perfect for any occasion.<br />

The most-needed winter<br />

accessories is head wraps.<br />

Winter fashion wouldn’t be<br />

complete without a matching<br />

winter headdress. Finding a<br />

winter head wrap can be<br />

challenging but it is possible to<br />

find one that is stylish and warm.<br />

You can wear your wrap with<br />

hair up or down and still have<br />

your outfit look fabulous!<br />

Article By: Tiffanie Mora<br />

WINTER FASHION<br />

7


T<br />

he alarm went off at 4:30 am<br />

a sound that Konstantin grew<br />

to love. To him it meant another day<br />

needed tackling and he was just the<br />

man to do it. He hit the off button,<br />

rolled onto his back and stared at<br />

the ceiling of his dorm allowing<br />

his eyes to adjust. As he created a<br />

mental checklist of the days to do’s<br />

he couldn’t help but smile. Early<br />

acceptance into Stanford Law and<br />

he did it all on his own. Konstantin<br />

took great pride in knowing he<br />

could provide for himself without<br />

his family’s money or connections.<br />

Although he was very close to his<br />

family the thought of accepting<br />

help almost made him sick. After<br />

all he wouldn’t be a real man if he<br />

needed help. From anybody.<br />

He chuckled at himself for having<br />

such serious thoughts this early and<br />

shook his head as he threw his down<br />

comforter to the side. He stood up,<br />

stretched his arms above his head<br />

then took a deep breath and leaned<br />

forward allowing his arms to fall<br />

to the floor to stretch. He did this<br />

every morning before going for his<br />

5 mile run. Nothing started his day<br />

off better. Although he’d grown to<br />

appreciate coffee he felt that being<br />

dependent on any substance to<br />

boost his mind showed weakness.<br />

empty library and that was usually<br />

where he preferred to study. Even<br />

though he had been accepted into<br />

the program he still had finals to<br />

finish before heading back to Cali<br />

in the fall.<br />

Parties never fully interested him.<br />

Unless he was looking for someone<br />

to warm his bed that evening.<br />

Even then the experience was<br />

typically sub-par and awkward<br />

when the women would wear out<br />

their welcome.<br />

He liked women, after all he was a<br />

man but none had been able to hold<br />

his interest for long. He found that<br />

many women while beautiful and<br />

enticing had nothing more to offer.<br />

The last woman he had attempted<br />

to date became quickly attached<br />

and there was nothing he despised<br />

more than someone needing<br />

another to feel adequate. This was<br />

just another sign of weakness to him<br />

and although he had no intention<br />

on being married anytime soon<br />

he sometimes wondered if he ever<br />

would. Maybe his standards were<br />

just too high but he was not one<br />

to settle. If he was giving his best<br />

there was no reason why he should<br />

get less in return. Then again he<br />

was only 24 so maybe there was<br />

still time.<br />

When Konstantin first met Colin<br />

four years ago he wasn’t sure if<br />

he’d keep him around. Colin was<br />

the kind of person who accepted<br />

mediocrity as a way of life. He<br />

was naturally gifted at every sport<br />

and extremely intelligent which<br />

afforded him the ability to not<br />

study and still obtain good grades.<br />

He was born and raised in Kansas.<br />

He would also most likely die there.<br />

A man with incredible talent and<br />

no ambition. The type of person<br />

Konstantin usually didn’t care for.<br />

He kept Colin around mainly<br />

because he fulfilled his need for<br />

intelligent conversation and also<br />

he always had the rundown of the<br />

latest social events when he needed<br />

to let off some steam.<br />

“I will never understand why you<br />

get up so damn early,” Colin said as<br />

Konstantin jogged up to him. The<br />

men exchanged looks and laughed<br />

as Konstantin began wrapping his<br />

earbud cord around his fingers and<br />

tucked it into his hoodie pocket.<br />

“Discipline my friend. No one worth<br />

mentioning ever became successful<br />

by partying all night and sleeping<br />

all day,” Konstantin answered. He<br />

had said this very thing to Colin<br />

several times before.<br />

A ROMANCE STORY<br />

It was March but still very cold in<br />

Manhattan, Kansas. He threw on<br />

his hoodie before putting in his<br />

earbuds and stepped outside. The<br />

music of choice was always classical.<br />

His favorite was Sonata Number 14<br />

by Beethoven. Something about the<br />

intensity of the instruments made<br />

him feel as though he was sharing<br />

the same feelings as the musician at<br />

the time he was composing. Drive,<br />

focus and determination are what<br />

created this piece he thought. Traits<br />

he appreciated and could relate to.<br />

As he ran off campus and into town<br />

he appreciated the quiet. It was as<br />

if the streets emptied themselves<br />

just for him. This was the time he<br />

allowed his mind to wander. He had<br />

been invited to a party on Friday<br />

by his buddy Colin but turned it<br />

down. A party on Friday meant an<br />

Women had always fallen over<br />

themselves in his presence. On<br />

rare occasions he would find the<br />

giggling and ogling charming but<br />

more often it annoyed him. He<br />

was 5’11 built with lean muscle,<br />

brown hair and green eyes. He had<br />

chiseled facial features and full lips.<br />

He wasn’t oblivious to his alluring<br />

genetics but he wished it wouldn’t<br />

make it so easy. His was a mind that<br />

needed to be challenged otherwise<br />

he felt he never fully deserved the<br />

“prize.” He found his winnings<br />

most satisfying when he felt he<br />

truly earned it.<br />

He finished up his run slowing down<br />

to a light jog as he arrived back on<br />

campus and saw Colin standing<br />

at the front of his building with a<br />

ridiculous grin on his face.<br />

They began walking into the<br />

building as Colin attempted one last<br />

time to change Konstantin’s mind<br />

about the party the following night.<br />

Konstantin gave Colin a sideways<br />

grin and said, “What if the best one<br />

night stand of your life is in the<br />

library Friday night? I suppose I’d<br />

be willing to step in on your behalf.”<br />

He waited for Colin’s response as<br />

he knew the one area Colin felt<br />

most threatened was with women.<br />

Colin, although handsome was not<br />

very charismatic. Konstantin was<br />

happy to push his buttons when<br />

given the chance.<br />

Colin slugged him in the shoulder<br />

and said, “No playboy worth<br />

mentioning ever snagged the hottest<br />

girl by hanging out in libraries, sir.”<br />

8 JESS NOVEL<br />

BR<strong>IT</strong>E: A ROMANCE STORY<br />

9


They both laughed. “Well, I’m headed<br />

to class. If you change your mind you<br />

know where to find the crew,” said<br />

Colin as he turned to leave.<br />

“Same here,” answered Konstantin<br />

while unlocking the door to his room.<br />

He still had an hour to kill before<br />

his first class. After a quick shower<br />

he finished getting dressed then<br />

went to his favorite campus café<br />

and ordered a breakfast sandwich<br />

with a coffee. As he ate his meal<br />

he studied the people around him.<br />

Groups of friends chatting and<br />

laughing. Couples sitting close<br />

being affectionate and whispering<br />

to each other.<br />

He sometimes wondered why he<br />

never felt the need to socialize as<br />

often as other people his age. He<br />

would often evaluate his life trying<br />

to find where things may have<br />

gone wrong.<br />

Questioning his behavior always<br />

troubled him as it was hard to<br />

accept the thought that he may be<br />

the one with the problem.<br />

He was raised by his mother, Elise<br />

and father, Aksel. When they met<br />

his father was 20 and his mother<br />

was 18. His grandparents had<br />

always warned him and his older<br />

brother, Erwin, that a love like theirs<br />

was rare. They discouraged the boys<br />

from following in their parents’<br />

footsteps as often as possible telling<br />

them marriage could wait.<br />

His parents were married 6 months<br />

into their courtship and his mother<br />

became pregnant 3 months later.<br />

They always held each other in such<br />

high regard. Their house always<br />

felt warm and full of love. The<br />

relationship his parents had was<br />

one he’d often see people attempt<br />

and fail at. He admired his parents’<br />

relationship but also didn’t like<br />

the idea of submitting himself to<br />

another person. To him submission<br />

was another word of losing and that<br />

was not something he did or enjoyed.<br />

His brother Erwin and he always<br />

had a close relationship. Although<br />

competition and egos were a<br />

challenge at times as any household<br />

with 2 boys would have, they always<br />

had each other’s backs. They knew<br />

how to press each other’s buttons<br />

and would as often as possible for<br />

mere amusement but it was always<br />

good natured.<br />

The only area in his life he felt<br />

sore about was how his father and<br />

brother at times seemed to have<br />

a closer relationship. One that<br />

was only between them and never<br />

shared with him or his mother.<br />

Konstantin had always assumed it<br />

had to do with respect and favor<br />

naturally given to the eldest.<br />

As he got older he realized how<br />

successful his brother actually was.<br />

He was adored by friends, family<br />

and especially women. Erwin<br />

managed to have a new gorgeous<br />

woman every month it seemed. His<br />

colleagues worshiped him and he<br />

was the apple of their fathers’ eye.<br />

Konstantin began to form a life plan<br />

for himself to prove to his father<br />

that he too was capable of the same<br />

amount of success if not better<br />

and he wouldn’t allow anyone or<br />

anything to stand in his way.<br />

Maybe that was when he started<br />

separating himself from everything<br />

he saw as a distraction including<br />

friendships and relationships. He sat<br />

back and let his thoughts wash over<br />

him as he continued to sip his coffee.<br />

Meanwhile, on the other side of<br />

campus Naomi Brite was flustered<br />

at herself for running late. It was<br />

nearing the end of her first year at<br />

Kansas State and she had no plans<br />

on letting herself slip. She took one<br />

final look in the mirror, her wild<br />

blonde hair was somewhat tamed<br />

into a messy bun on the top of her<br />

head and her big brown eyes were<br />

accentuated with a little mascara. A<br />

dash of blush on each cheek and a<br />

berry colored lip balm would have<br />

to do. It had been a cold winter<br />

and the last bit of her tan had<br />

disappeared back in November.<br />

Grabbing her backpack and slinging<br />

it onto her shoulders she looked<br />

disdainfully at her alarm clock<br />

once more before heading out the<br />

door. “I know I set that stupid thing<br />

last night,” she huffed as she sped<br />

walked to the stairs. Her roommate<br />

Cyndi had already left for the day<br />

and she was slightly annoyed that<br />

she hadn’t taken the time to wake<br />

her. Although she didn’t typically<br />

need help as she was usually very<br />

organized and punctual. Still, Cyndi<br />

could have at least double checked!<br />

Naomi mounted her bike and<br />

started pedaling to the other<br />

side of the campus. As a pre-med<br />

student she had really enjoyed her<br />

first year at a university. She also<br />

enjoyed being away from home.<br />

Although she missed her father<br />

dearly, this had been her first taste<br />

of independence since…ever and it<br />

was delicious.<br />

She was born and raised in Crested<br />

Butte, Colorado. Population 1,487<br />

last she checked. Bottom line, it<br />

was way too small for her and her<br />

dreams of becoming a big city<br />

pediatric physician. Manhattan,<br />

KS was not her final destination<br />

but she was happy to have been<br />

accepted into their program and<br />

stay somewhat close to dad. She<br />

had gone home to visit during each<br />

break this year and was grateful for<br />

the time spent with him.<br />

She had decided to stay in town<br />

for a couple years after high school<br />

to help her dad at the hardware<br />

store he owned. He was only 55<br />

but the years of raising a daughter<br />

on his own and running his own<br />

shop seemed to have aged him<br />

tremendously. She took classes<br />

locally before submitting for a few<br />

pre-med programs. All out of state.<br />

Kansas had been the only one she<br />

was accepted to. It didn’t matter<br />

to her because it meant she had<br />

potential. It was just the beginning.<br />

Naomi always felt a tinge of guilt for<br />

her dad’s lack of social or dating life<br />

but he always assured her it was the<br />

life he had chosen for himself. He<br />

said he could never imagine loving<br />

anyone more than her mother so<br />

there was no use in searching.<br />

Her mother had died shortly after<br />

delivering her. “Complications<br />

beyond anyone’s control,” her father<br />

would say whenever she’d tried to<br />

ask. When she was old enough to<br />

recognize the pain that reflected<br />

in his eyes when her mother was<br />

brought up she stopped asking.<br />

She decided to make peace with it<br />

and support her father any way she<br />

could from that moment on.<br />

Naomi was the only child and filled<br />

her days with reading. She began<br />

speaking and reading at a young<br />

age. Her teachers would always<br />

encourage her father to place her in<br />

the gifted classes. Steve (her father)<br />

had always been proud of her<br />

abilities but never wanted to push<br />

her to grow up too fast. In a way she<br />

was grateful he always wanted the<br />

best for her but she also wondered<br />

if maybe she would have been able<br />

to maintain closer friendships with<br />

kids her level. Even though she<br />

never had problems making friends<br />

she never seemed to really connect<br />

with anyone either.<br />

Naomi had a high school boyfriend<br />

she met her junior year and dated<br />

for 4 years. He was kind and she felt<br />

strongly for him but still had no<br />

problem breaking things off when<br />

she left to Kansas. She missed the<br />

companionship at times but knew<br />

deep down he was never the one<br />

she would end up with. Tim on the<br />

other hand had been shattered by<br />

the news. He didn’t see why they<br />

couldn’t maintain a long-distance<br />

relationship until she was ready to<br />

come back to Colorado. That was<br />

just it though, she never planned<br />

on returning to Colorado other<br />

than to visit her dad on occasion.<br />

Tim had his whole life planned<br />

and it all revolved around their<br />

hometown. Naomi refused to<br />

become a housewife and mother. At<br />

least for now.<br />

There had also been red flags with<br />

Tim she wasn’t sure she could get<br />

over. His jealousy for example<br />

always seemed irrational and his fits<br />

of rage were always embarrassing.<br />

She could recall on more than one<br />

occasion needing to talk him out<br />

of a fight because he swore another<br />

guy had been “undressing her with<br />

his eyes.” She hated that expression<br />

and it made her feel like she had<br />

done something wrong.<br />

Naomi never seemed to notice the<br />

attention she would get from men<br />

young and old. She was bright,<br />

beautiful and very charismatic. Her<br />

features although not striking were<br />

unique and the way she carried<br />

herself with humble confidence<br />

was refreshing to anyone who<br />

crossed her path. She had a smile<br />

that would light up a room and an<br />

infectious laugh. Still, she never<br />

could quite see herself the way<br />

others often did.<br />

As her mind got carried away in a<br />

flurry of thoughts she didn’t notice<br />

the backpack in her path until it was<br />

too late. She tried to hit the brakes<br />

but still hit the backpack which<br />

jolted her forward and made her<br />

lose her balance. She attempted to<br />

fall gracefully which only made the<br />

entire experience worse as the bike<br />

had a mind of its own. It toppled<br />

over and pinned her left leg.<br />

Completely embarrassed she<br />

noticed she was right in front<br />

of the café where most students<br />

grabbed their breakfast and<br />

beverages in the mornings. She<br />

was irritated this happened here of<br />

all places. No one even attempted<br />

to help her. They just looked on<br />

feigning concern. The whole<br />

episode just fueled her irritation<br />

even more. Especially when she<br />

noticed HIM watching her.<br />

He was sitting calmly at an outdoor<br />

table sipping his coffee and<br />

watching her with what, disdain,<br />

pity, glee?! It was all she could<br />

do to keep from yelling, “What is<br />

your deal?” She had noticed him<br />

on campus before and seen him<br />

at parties occasionally. “That’s<br />

Konstantin Price. The biggest babe<br />

here,” Cyndi had said when Naomi<br />

first noticed him at a school event<br />

earlier in the year.<br />

He was incredibly good looking but<br />

seemed to be the type that knew it<br />

and used it to his advantage. Ugh,<br />

what an arrogant jerk! Something<br />

about him just got under Naomi’s<br />

skin. The way he’d walk with his<br />

head and nose turned up like he<br />

owned the place just pissed her off.<br />

As his green eyes watched her, for<br />

a moment she thought he might<br />

have been checking her out but she<br />

quickly dismissed the idea. What<br />

would a guy like that see or want in<br />

a girl like her?<br />

What is there to check out Naomi?<br />

Your clumsiness? She thought to<br />

herself as she stood up and began<br />

pedaling again. As she passed by<br />

she realized he hadn’t taken his<br />

eyes off her the entire time. “So glad<br />

I could be your entertainment this<br />

morning,” she mumbled angrily as<br />

she whizzed past him.<br />

Now being 30 minutes late to her<br />

class she knew she’d be spending<br />

her Friday night playing catch up in<br />

the library. Man! She had actually<br />

been looking forward to a night off<br />

to unwind with Cyndi at the party<br />

everyone had been talking about.<br />

Oh well, there would always be<br />

more parties.<br />

Story by: Jess Martin<br />

10<br />

BR<strong>IT</strong>E: A ROMANCE STORY<br />

BR<strong>IT</strong>E: A ROMANCE STORY<br />

11


Technological Curse?<br />

HOW CELL PHONES HAVE NEGATIVELY IMPACTED LIFE<br />

The human race is so addicted to mobile phones that they have now<br />

become a necessity. You cannot imagine a day without your mobile<br />

phone or better yet, smart-phone. It has been reported that by <strong>2016</strong>,<br />

smart-phones will have penetrated the United States market by 90%.<br />

This means that mobile phones will have an even greater grip on<br />

Americans, given their capability to control important life aspects from<br />

your palms.<br />

While there are numerous advantages of owning a mobile phone,<br />

you will agree that the non-stop availability that these devices offer has<br />

eroded the importance of privacy and lessened your sense of space<br />

and responsibility. Here is how cell phones have negatively impacted<br />

human existence.<br />

Accidents<br />

According to the 2014 National Safety Council’s annual injury<br />

and fatality report, cell phone use caused 1 in 4 car accidents<br />

in the United States. This was a modest increase from 2013, an<br />

indication that cell phone usage is progressively developing<br />

into a disaster in American roads. 5% of these crashes happen<br />

because a driver is texting.<br />

While you might think that hands-free phones are the solution,<br />

a report in the Journal of Safety Research found out that these<br />

types of phones are not any better. You should therefore<br />

adhere to traffic rules and refrain from using your cell phone<br />

while driving.<br />

12<br />

TECHNOLOGICAL C<strong>UR</strong>SE : HOW CELL PHONES NEGATIVELY IMPACT LIFE<br />

13


Professional Boundaries<br />

No Longer Exist<br />

Unfulfilled Dating Life<br />

Weekends, off days and vacations are no longer personal<br />

time. You definitely have ‘worked’ on these days by<br />

constantly checking your work email. Additionally, on a<br />

normal working day, you have checked your emails before<br />

sleeping and sometimes in between dinner using your<br />

phone.<br />

Cell phone use clearly interrupts these special moments<br />

when you should be relaxing, which are now spent attending<br />

to business-related matters. To curb this, you should develop<br />

cell phone use discipline and personal time should be<br />

treated with respect. After all, you also need time off to<br />

peacefully enjoy the wealth you spend almost half your<br />

day amassing.<br />

Effective communication is definitely one of the key tenets of<br />

a healthy relationship. Unfortunately, texting has completely<br />

changed the dating landscape. Gone are the days when<br />

people went for coffee dates and had quality conversations,<br />

which had undivided attention.<br />

Fast forward to today when your date is characterized by<br />

two people sitting on opposite ends of the table, quietly<br />

looking at their phones while reading blogs and social<br />

media posts. By the end of the date, you sure can say a lot<br />

more about the online activities of the day than what your<br />

partner had to say.<br />

Reduced Quality Of Sleep<br />

75% of people sleep with easy access to<br />

their phones. This means that the risk of their<br />

sleep getting distracted is great. Take for<br />

example a client or family member calling<br />

from the West Coast at 8pm when you live<br />

in the East Coast where it is 11pm at that<br />

moment. If you are asleep, then you will<br />

have to wake up and attend to business.<br />

With time, you will enjoy less peaceful nights.<br />

In conclusion, as much as cell phones seem<br />

to be a curse, you have the ability to dictate<br />

how much they will affect your life. Simply<br />

develop cell phone use etiquette and let<br />

your family, friends and clients take note of<br />

when to call you, unless it is an emergency.<br />

Article by: Vivian Achieng<br />

14 TECHNOLOGICAL C<strong>UR</strong>SE : HOW CELL PHONES NEGATIVELY IMPACT LIFE<br />

15


C<br />

hoosing a career in modeling is a choice that is<br />

full of hours of dedication and flashing lights. The<br />

modeling world is one of the most competitive,<br />

most difficult and possibly most dangerous industries to<br />

enter into as a career if you don’t know the correct ways to<br />

go about doing it. There are many different steps to follow<br />

and rules. Many people are willing to take advantage of<br />

young women looking to make it famous with their looks.<br />

On the other side, there are quality agencies or modeling<br />

groups out there to help young models excel and succeed.<br />

Listed below is a guide that may help those seeking a<br />

career as a professional model.<br />

FOLLOW YO<strong>UR</strong><br />

GUT FEELING<br />

Never do anything it takes to get to<br />

the top. You’ll regret it later. Models<br />

are often seen as sex objects and think<br />

that it necessary to take their clothes<br />

off or have sex appeal in all of their<br />

photographs to make it in modeling.<br />

WRONG! Outside of local modeling<br />

gigs, most outlets for modeling lead<br />

to sketchy, compromising situations.<br />

Follow your gut and values of who you<br />

are and stick to your guns! Again, on<br />

the other side, finding the right agencies<br />

will honor your values and can lead you<br />

to a great career.<br />

GET PRACTICE<br />

In the modeling industry, you will<br />

always have to follow your gut but you<br />

have to start getting practice to become<br />

a successful model. Practice, practice,<br />

and more practice! With practice<br />

you will become better and better at<br />

modeling. Start out slow in modeling;<br />

don’t just jump right into it. You have to<br />

build a portfolio to show agencies. Over<br />

time, you will adjust your portfolio<br />

because you will become better. Find<br />

a local amateur photographer that is<br />

looking to Trade for Print (TFP). Most<br />

professional photographers will not<br />

TFP because they have a giant portfolio<br />

and don’t have time to do free shoots.<br />

Begin by shooting with many different<br />

photographers at first, but be aware<br />

some photographers can lead you in<br />

the incorrect directions. Remember<br />

to follow your gut and say “no” if they<br />

ask you to pose or wear things that are<br />

against your values of who you are. Over<br />

time you will reach the goal of working<br />

with a professional photographer who<br />

you will more than likely have to pay—<br />

modeling isn’t free. If you have the<br />

mindset that modeling is free, you will<br />

be doing shoots that don’t benefit you<br />

in the modeling career. It takes money<br />

to be successful, not just a pretty face.<br />

So before you decide to go into an<br />

agency, wide eyed and smiling, practice<br />

first because agencies deal with models<br />

day in and day out, pushing paperwork.<br />

If you do get called in for a meet and<br />

greet, you need to keep your look<br />

natural, have a confident walk and just<br />

be you—not someone else you think<br />

they would be looking for.<br />

BE AWARE OF WHAT<br />

YOU’LL FACE<br />

Know that other models, male or<br />

female, can be cutthroat and may be<br />

hard to work with. Some models may<br />

feel that you are a threat to them and<br />

treat you badly so you will leave and<br />

16<br />

HOW TO BECOME A SUCCESSFUL MODEL<br />

HOW TO BECOME A SUCCESSFUL MODEL<br />

17


never return. Be aware. It may be best to refrain from working with hateful<br />

models. Also, the wrong agencies may ask you to sacrifice your morals,<br />

integrity or beliefs just to obtain certain photos. Choosing the right agency<br />

will take some time, but you will find the right one for you. Be aware of<br />

that when working with designers as well, if you walk runway later on in<br />

your modeling career. Remember—while on that runway supporting and<br />

showing off that designer’s work—it’s about them, not you. You are only<br />

there as a walking display and hired only for that purpose.<br />

There are so many different types of modeling that you can push for. Some<br />

modeling, like runway modeling, isn’t for everyone. You have to have a<br />

certain look to be runway and height and weight is a factor. Also be aware of<br />

society. Models will often get bashed due to their body appearances. Brush<br />

that negativity off and delete those types of people from your life. They are<br />

likely jealous that you have a goal in life and are pushing to better yourself.<br />

Along your journey, you will figure out what to be aware of and naturally<br />

push through the obstacles and learn from them as you go.<br />

KNOW YO<strong>UR</strong> MARKET<br />

AND AREA<br />

What does this mean? Well, for starters, depending on the area you live<br />

in, certain trends and looks are more popular than others. If you live in<br />

a small town that is hours from any type of big city, chances are you will<br />

not be doing fashion runway modeling. Yet, you’re more likely to make a<br />

newspaper or some small commercial advertisements for local businesses.<br />

If your style of modeling isn’t “offered” where you live, move to an area where<br />

it is, or consider traveling back and forth to an area where that style exists.<br />

Also know whether you’re auditioning for a market that advertises petite<br />

sizes, plus sizes, certain clothing trends, or for a targeted market like natural<br />

living, city trends, cosmetic companies, etc. Research is a must.<br />

GET A GREAT<br />

HEADSHOT<br />

Having a great headshot is a must in the industry. The headshot says so many<br />

different things about you. First off, a headshot is unedited and completely<br />

natural with light or little to no makeup involved and hair in its natural<br />

state. Most agencies want to see you in the raw to see if you could transform<br />

into a variety of looks. Remember, you’re pretty just as you are, so let those<br />

agencies see you for you.<br />

W<br />

ith all the information<br />

listed in this article, it<br />

can be a little overwhelming.<br />

Remember that being you and<br />

being all natural and kind to all<br />

around you will get you in place.<br />

Being someone that others think<br />

you should be is the incorrect<br />

way of thinking and agencies,<br />

photographers, and designers will<br />

see this and will not want to work<br />

with you on a professional level.<br />

So take this and do your best at<br />

doing what you have dreamt.<br />

Work hard and stay positive, push<br />

through the negative statements<br />

and stick with the positive ones.<br />

Find your path, whatever it may<br />

be, and<br />

Dream Big !<br />

Article by: Adeena Harbst<br />

18 HOW TO BECOME A SUCCESSFUL MODEL<br />

?<br />

19


Faithful<br />

Beauty<br />

TIPS FROM FA<strong>IT</strong>H GREATHOUSE<br />

Best color match and sunscreen<br />

protection tips while matching<br />

your foundation:<br />

Do as the French do; instead of having<br />

your favorite retail store match you on<br />

your chin line, ask them to cover up the<br />

most noticeable blue vein on your wrist.<br />

If it looks like the makeup covers the<br />

blue of your veins, you are in luck! The<br />

color will cover the most vulnerable<br />

areas on your face. If you have sun spots,<br />

that will require a more yellow concealer<br />

used underneath of your foundation.<br />

Dior concealer is a great product; it isn’t<br />

drying and stays on for 12 hours.<br />

Baby sunscreen for your body (spray<br />

or lotion) is also a wonderful product<br />

for your skin because it contains fewer<br />

chemicals and a higher level of SPF<br />

(45+) protection than other sunscreens.<br />

For your face, I highly recommend the<br />

number one professional line by New<br />

Beauty magazine, Jan Marini. You can get<br />

a physical (33 SPF) or chemical (45 SPF)<br />

sunscreen for your skin type needs with<br />

or without a hint of tint and coverage.<br />

There are over the counter options as<br />

well if you are not too concerned about<br />

aging. Supergoop has an SPF 50 mist<br />

you can spray right over your makeup.<br />

They all contain antioxidants and great<br />

protection from harmful rays. Stay<br />

protected and flawless.<br />

Article by: Faith Greathouse<br />

Esthetics by Faith<br />

www.estheticsbyfaith.com<br />

20<br />

FA<strong>IT</strong>HFUL BEAUTY<br />

21


Get to Know <strong>UR</strong> <strong>IT</strong> Model<br />

Shawna<br />

<strong>UR</strong> <strong>IT</strong> Model Shawna from<br />

central Pennsylvania has<br />

run with the opportunity to<br />

work with <strong>UR</strong> <strong>IT</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong><br />

and her modeling adventures<br />

are expanding. She is<br />

fulfilling goals and looks<br />

ahead to what is to come.<br />

She took a few minutes out<br />

of her busy schedule to share<br />

with <strong>UR</strong> <strong>IT</strong> a little about<br />

herself, her views and beliefs,<br />

and the opportunities that<br />

have most recently come<br />

along in her modeling career<br />

after her experience with <strong>UR</strong><br />

<strong>IT</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>.<br />

<strong>UR</strong> <strong>IT</strong> – Tell us a little bit about<br />

yourself.<br />

Shawna - Well, I have three younger<br />

brothers who are the best guys<br />

in the world and my mom is my<br />

biggest fan. She really supports<br />

everything I do... no matter what.<br />

Even if she doesn’t agree with me,<br />

she still supports me and my views<br />

and thoughts. I don’t know where I<br />

would be today without them.<br />

I enjoy the outdoors a lot; hiking<br />

and venturing into the wilderness is<br />

like playtime for me.<br />

I do daily positive self talks. I just<br />

recently started doing this and it<br />

really is a wonderful tool. If negative<br />

talk can have such an impact on<br />

us, then positive talk must, too.<br />

There are 10 things I tell myself<br />

every morning. I actually have a<br />

chalk board on my wall so when<br />

I walk out of my bedroom door, I<br />

see them and read them every day<br />

out loud. It sounds silly but if it<br />

means something to you, it’s really<br />

powerful. You have to have an open<br />

heart. Get grounded with yourself.<br />

But yeah, the first time I did it I<br />

cried... the second and third and<br />

seventh time I did too. But after<br />

about a week, I gained something.<br />

I gained almost like strength in<br />

myself… I opened up my heart and<br />

stopped fighting myself.<br />

<strong>UR</strong> <strong>IT</strong> - What encouraged your<br />

start with <strong>UR</strong> <strong>IT</strong>? How has <strong>UR</strong> <strong>IT</strong><br />

affected your path in life and view<br />

of yourself?<br />

22<br />

GET TO KNOW <strong>UR</strong> <strong>IT</strong> MODEL SHAWNA<br />

23


Shawna - I actually wasn’t a fan of<br />

the magazine at first; I questioned<br />

it and really didn’t support it. Then<br />

like a few days later I looked into it,<br />

and really read what the goal was—<br />

what <strong>UR</strong> <strong>IT</strong> stood for—and I felt like<br />

this is where I needed to be. I had to<br />

see what this was all about.<br />

What the magazine stands for is<br />

really important to me, and I feel<br />

is something that everyone should<br />

be a part of. Self-empowerment is<br />

something that everyone needs to<br />

experience...being you, completely<br />

you, with no doubts of who you are<br />

and what you stand for. Knowing<br />

that you are important and you can<br />

make the world yours is something<br />

that is forgotten in today’s world.<br />

We became so uniform, we lost our<br />

individuality; and that’s what is<br />

empowering—to be an individual, to<br />

stand out and be a person, not just<br />

another empty vessel. So, yeah...<br />

now that I’m done with my speech….<br />

But <strong>UR</strong> <strong>IT</strong> has been a growing<br />

process....like everything. I have<br />

overcome personal obstacles in<br />

my life because of the influences<br />

of <strong>UR</strong> <strong>IT</strong> and it has truly made me<br />

a better person. Through <strong>UR</strong> <strong>IT</strong>, I<br />

found my calling in life, the reason I<br />

was put here. My whole life I always<br />

felt like I was meant for something<br />

different...I never really fit in<br />

anywhere, you know. I just always<br />

felt like I had more to give and <strong>UR</strong><br />

<strong>IT</strong> has made that possible for me.<br />

It opened so many doors for me. I<br />

get to meet and grow with people<br />

now. I get to spread the word, and<br />

make that difference in this world<br />

and <strong>UR</strong> <strong>IT</strong> makes that possible. We<br />

don’t conform to society...our goal<br />

is to stand up - for individuality and<br />

break stereotypes.<br />

<strong>UR</strong> <strong>IT</strong> - Speaking along those terms,<br />

are you an advocate for anything<br />

controversial?<br />

Shawna - Yes, I am. I am a huge<br />

advocate for marijuana use. All I<br />

have to say about that is: Do your<br />

research. Period. I am actually going<br />

to be doing a lot more promoting in<br />

that field in the near future.<br />

<strong>UR</strong> <strong>IT</strong> – So we understand you had<br />

a recent photo shoot for Fashion<br />

Zone of Egypt. How does it feel to<br />

be part of that?<br />

Shawna - Well...of course it<br />

was amazing and very exciting!<br />

The photographer (Abu Samra<br />

Photography) was absolutely<br />

wonderful! He really took the time<br />

to teach me and gave me such<br />

awesome feedback that I can use<br />

going forward. It’s actually really<br />

cool how it happened and it worked<br />

out perfectly. He was coming to visit<br />

family in the states at that time, so<br />

it was a huge opportunity for me to<br />

take advantage of. He contacted me<br />

through an online modeling site and<br />

asked me to model for Fashion Zone<br />

while he was here visiting family. Of<br />

course I’m thrilled!<br />

I almost thought it was a scam at<br />

first but then I did my research and<br />

it became reality. We were scheduled<br />

for like two months prior to his<br />

visit, we collaborated and came up<br />

with amazing ideas and concepts.<br />

During his stay, we spent three days<br />

shooting! Two days were just getting<br />

grounded and comfortable with one<br />

another. I really think it is important<br />

that the photographer and model<br />

have that comfort and openness.<br />

Then we spent one day shooting for<br />

Fashion Zone! He really taught me a<br />

lot about how to move my face and<br />

small movements make a world of<br />

difference. It’s actually crazy how<br />

much you can change your face!<br />

For the Fashion Zone shoot, we went<br />

to Buttermilk Fall in New Florence,<br />

PA and Slater Park in Blairsville, PA.<br />

We did really elegant glamour shots.<br />

Shawna Article<br />

“<br />

My<br />

goals are just always to do better than what I<br />

did before...to have that growth is my goal. ”<br />

- Shawna<br />

24<br />

GET TO KNOW <strong>UR</strong> <strong>IT</strong> MODEL SHAWNA<br />

25


Sam Schoeny<br />

Instagram:@schoenygram<br />

www.schoenymedia.com<br />

It wasn’t until I was on set during<br />

the shoot that I realized I was<br />

actually going to be the on cover of<br />

Fashion Zone and that was freaking<br />

amazing. I was so taken aback and<br />

happy...I felt like a little kid. It’s<br />

definitely something that I am<br />

proud of, something really no one<br />

else will get to do, so that makes me<br />

extremely honored that I got this<br />

chance.<br />

<strong>UR</strong> <strong>IT</strong> -You’ve also had some shoots<br />

in Cleveland. How did that start,<br />

where is it going, and what are your<br />

goals?<br />

Shawna – Sam, the photographer,<br />

is amazing at what he does! We<br />

started together over the summer<br />

with some outside nature shoots at<br />

Ohiopyle, and that was absolutely<br />

beautiful. It was after this shoot that<br />

I realized my potential. Something<br />

just clicked, and I knew this is where<br />

I wanted to go with things. This is<br />

where I needed to be, where I could<br />

really push forward and become the<br />

best I could be.<br />

We have done a lot together in a short<br />

time as well... we really promote<br />

each other well. We have been<br />

involved with Bong Beauties out of<br />

Cali. We do promotional shoots with<br />

their clothing. We are doing some<br />

more Bong Beauties promos and<br />

some boudoir/implied shots. I am<br />

really excited! I feel it will be a huge<br />

step for me, personally.<br />

My goals are just always to do better<br />

than what I did before... to have that<br />

growth is my goal. As long as I am<br />

growing and learning, what more<br />

can I ask for? That’s what life is<br />

about. :)<br />

<strong>UR</strong> <strong>IT</strong> – One final question – What<br />

is your overall word of advice for<br />

other women?<br />

Shawna - Stay true to who you are,<br />

like don’t let the influences of other<br />

people change you. You are beautiful<br />

just the way you are. Be proud of flaws<br />

and flaunt it for everyone to see.<br />

Article by: Adeena Harbst<br />

26 GET TO KNOW <strong>UR</strong> <strong>IT</strong> MODEL SHAWNA<br />

27


28<br />

29


Throughout history there has been both<br />

an appreciation and almost a resentment<br />

about the freedom of choice. The<br />

stipulations of practicing this freedom<br />

falls somewhere between, “it’s okay as<br />

long as you don’t offend anyone” or “it’s<br />

okay as long as your choice falls within<br />

the majority.” Now the question is how<br />

free is it with such stringent guidelines<br />

placed on that freedom? Not to mention<br />

the social media shield that creates<br />

a false sense of safety for those who<br />

feel the need to have an opinion about<br />

everything and share it in a less than<br />

graceful way. Backlash if you will against<br />

those who don’t fit the mold.<br />

There are many examples that can be<br />

made but one that has begun to gain<br />

more publicity is women’s choice to not<br />

have children. The U.S. Census Bureau’s<br />

Current Population survey for 2014 shows<br />

that 47.6 percent of women between the<br />

ages of 15-44 have never had children<br />

which is higher than the 2012 recorded<br />

percentage. While researching the topic<br />

there were several reasons for women<br />

making this choice but there were two<br />

reasons that stood out the most.<br />

The first common reason that came<br />

up for women choosing not to have<br />

children was to continue pursuing their<br />

careers. The career choices varied from<br />

entrepreneurship to becoming doctors,<br />

lawyers, military career and so on. A<br />

common misconception is that these<br />

women choosing their careers somehow<br />

make it seem that women can’t “have it<br />

all” or downplay the women who choose<br />

to have both. While for many of them<br />

it was simply the choice to not have to<br />

split their time or attention between the<br />

two. There are plenty of women who are<br />

successful in having careers and being<br />

homemakers however none will tell you<br />

it’s been a success without sacrifice. The<br />

women that choose to focus primarily on<br />

their careers should not have an effect on<br />

those who choose to have children and<br />

vice versa. They are already fulfilled in<br />

their careers and don’t feel that children<br />

with bring more or better fulfillment in<br />

their lives.<br />

The second common reason that came up<br />

was either being financially stable and not<br />

wanting to rock that stability boat or not<br />

being financially stable. According to the<br />

U.S. Department of Agriculture’s report<br />

on the cost of raising a child born in 2013<br />

in a middle income family is $245,340.<br />

That projected amount included food,<br />

housing, childcare and education only<br />

up to the age of 18. Continued education<br />

and other unexpected expenses such as<br />

medical or legal needs were not included<br />

in this amount. With an average amount<br />

of $30,000 of student loan debt along<br />

with a mortgage, insurance, vehicle<br />

loans and food costs even the most<br />

“...How free is<br />

it with such<br />

stringent<br />

guidelines<br />

placed on that<br />

freedom?”<br />

modest living woman would say<br />

to add another average of $1,136/<br />

month would be difficult.<br />

While most people would say it is a<br />

woman’s choice if she is single or a<br />

couple’s choice if married the bottom<br />

line is that once the decision to not<br />

have children is made the backlash<br />

received from family, friends and<br />

even complete strangers can be<br />

horrendously shameful to put it nicely.<br />

Remarks of being selfish, greedy,<br />

unloving, and inhumane are only a<br />

few of the things that are said. Not to<br />

mention that somehow women who<br />

are physically able to have children<br />

and choose not to are somehow<br />

disrespecting or insensitive to women<br />

physically unable to have children?<br />

One has nothing to do with the other.<br />

There is not a logical reason to back<br />

up that theory or statement. Not to<br />

mention the disrespect being shown<br />

by those who are judging the women<br />

making that choice in the first place.<br />

“Agree to<br />

disagree<br />

or live<br />

and let<br />

live.”<br />

Freedom of choice is just that. So yes,<br />

those who disagree with the reasons for<br />

women choosing to not have children<br />

are entitled to their opinion but when it<br />

crosses the respect boundary and their<br />

bouts of rage on social media border<br />

harassment, is it still freedom of choice<br />

being practiced or mere bullying? If it’s<br />

hard to differentiate then maybe those<br />

being the bully’s or trolls should back off<br />

and ask themselves why it is they feel<br />

so offended or outraged by someone<br />

making a choice that in reality has no<br />

effect on their personal life. The selfreflection<br />

may be enlightening.<br />

As a society who overall appreciates<br />

their rights we need to remember that<br />

when those freedoms are sought by<br />

many different types of people there will<br />

be thoughts, choices and opinions that<br />

may not fit into a perfect ideal box but<br />

that is the reason we love living in this<br />

country. It will always come full circle<br />

so remember to “agree to disagree” or<br />

“live and let live.” At the end of the day<br />

everyone is just trying to live the best<br />

they can and there shouldn’t be a right<br />

or wrong way of doing it when there’s<br />

no harm being done.<br />

Article by: Jessica Martin<br />

30<br />

MY CHOICE, YO<strong>UR</strong> CHOICE, O<strong>UR</strong> CHOICE<br />

MY CHOICE, YO<strong>UR</strong> CHOICE, O<strong>UR</strong> CHOICE<br />

31


Here are six tips that will help U kick the static:<br />

1. When washing your hair, use conditioner. Be sure to use a<br />

good hydrating conditioner that will give your hair the moisture<br />

it needs. Shampoo cleans <strong>UR</strong> hair while also taking out some<br />

of the natural oils of <strong>UR</strong> hair. Conditioner restores oils in <strong>UR</strong> hair<br />

and moisturizes <strong>UR</strong> hair. Some people have more natural oils<br />

than others, so the amount of conditioner is also important. If<br />

<strong>UR</strong> roots become oily throughout the day, just use conditioner<br />

from the middle of the hair to the ends. The longer <strong>UR</strong> hair, the<br />

less natural oils make it to the ends.<br />

2. Hair dryers can damage <strong>UR</strong> hair if not used properly. Allow<br />

<strong>UR</strong> hair to air dry before using a hair dryer. Be sure there is no<br />

water dripping from <strong>UR</strong> hair, when it is damp is the best to dry.<br />

Before drying, remember to use a heat protectant. It is best to<br />

use a serum, mouse, wet spray, or a liquid volumizer while <strong>UR</strong><br />

hair is wet, hair sprays are mainly used for dry hair styling. When<br />

brushing <strong>UR</strong> hair wet, be sure to use a wide tooth comb or<br />

ouch-less brushes because these will not rip out <strong>UR</strong> hair. If Ur<br />

hair tangles, use a detangling product.<br />

Dry, static hair is a problem we all<br />

deal with. There are all types of<br />

products to use that will help keep<br />

<strong>UR</strong> hair happy and healthy. Talk<br />

to <strong>UR</strong> hair dresser about products<br />

that will work best for U, since <strong>UR</strong><br />

hair dresser is the one that works<br />

with <strong>UR</strong> hair the most. There are<br />

always DIY ways for homemade<br />

products that are always fun to<br />

use to kick the static.<br />

Article by: Victoria Long<br />

3. Hair masks are another great way to give <strong>UR</strong> hair moisture.<br />

U can buy different kinds of hair masks, or DIY. Honey and<br />

coconut oil very healthy for <strong>UR</strong> hair because they are natural.<br />

When using a hair mask, it is important to put the mask from <strong>UR</strong><br />

scalp to the ends of <strong>UR</strong> hair. Masks will strengthen <strong>UR</strong> hair and<br />

help keep <strong>UR</strong> hair from being static or frizzy.<br />

4. Dryer sheets are good for quick fixes during the day. Keep<br />

them in <strong>UR</strong> pocket or purse for when <strong>UR</strong> hair is static. Start at<br />

the top of <strong>UR</strong> head, run the dryer sheet to the ends to help<br />

tame the static.<br />

Do U have trouble with dry, static hair?<br />

Well <strong>UR</strong> <strong>IT</strong> professionals are here to help! This is<br />

the worst time of the year for our hair because<br />

the weather is cold and dry. It is important to<br />

give <strong>UR</strong> hair the proper care so it does not<br />

break off and become brittle. Here are the<br />

best ways to keep <strong>UR</strong> hair soft and healthy,<br />

{with minimal frizz.<br />

{<br />

5. Keep a small bottle of conditioner mixed with water in <strong>UR</strong><br />

purse. If <strong>UR</strong> hair feels dry or has static, use this to help control<br />

the static. A small spray bottle is the best, but a squeeze bottle<br />

will work. Spray some on the palm of <strong>UR</strong> hand or finger tips and<br />

run through <strong>UR</strong> hair to the ends. This give <strong>UR</strong> hair moisture and<br />

calms the static.<br />

6. Brushing <strong>UR</strong> hair is important as well. Soft brushes help spread<br />

the natural oils throughout <strong>UR</strong> hair. Brush <strong>UR</strong> hair every night<br />

before bed to make <strong>UR</strong> hair soft, while relaxing your scalp.<br />

When <strong>UR</strong> hair is wet, use a wide tooth plastic comb or ouch-less<br />

brushes. Ouch-less brushes are plastic with bristles set further<br />

apart. These are best for wet hair because they are not going<br />

to tear <strong>UR</strong> hair. Wet hair has more stretch and will break easier,<br />

especially if <strong>UR</strong> hair is colored. Using <strong>UR</strong> fingers to detangle wet<br />

hair is also a great technique.<br />

32 KICKING THE STATIC<br />

KICKING THE STATIC<br />

33


Starting A Cottage<br />

Business…<br />

Is It For You?<br />

a<br />

I ts only Dream<br />

...<br />

Starting a Cottage business is the<br />

big thing for women today, but<br />

before jumping on the bandwagon,<br />

do your homework. For those who<br />

don’t know what a cottage business<br />

is, it’s simply a home based<br />

business. A business that is run<br />

from the home. This is working<br />

well for women who want to help<br />

with the family income but also<br />

stay at home with the children.<br />

If you’re thinking, what kind of<br />

business could I do, I’ve always<br />

stayed at home. Well take a day or<br />

two and think about what you like<br />

to do and what you’re really good<br />

at doing. Maybe you’re a good<br />

baker or sewing your own clothes<br />

or home décor. Do you like painting<br />

or refinishing? If you enjoy taking<br />

care of children and would like<br />

to take a few into your home to<br />

watch, start small and see how it<br />

goes. Whatever you stand out at<br />

make this your business. Many<br />

women use their hobbies to start<br />

a business. If you’re into crafting<br />

people will buy home crafted items.<br />

Maybe you like to garden. Add a<br />

few extra plants and sell the fresh<br />

produce. Do you paint landscapes<br />

or portraits? Put your work out<br />

there and give it a try.<br />

Before starting your business<br />

make a business plan. What will<br />

it cost to get your business off the<br />

ground? What type of insurance<br />

will you need to cover not only your<br />

business but also yourself? Will<br />

you be able to do this alone or will<br />

you need to hire help? How large of<br />

a demand is there for your service<br />

or product? Are there any state or<br />

federal regulations or guidelines<br />

to follow? Are there any types<br />

of permits needed? Are there<br />

changes that will need to be made<br />

to your home?<br />

After deciding what you would like<br />

to try, get your homework done<br />

and give it a go. Whatever your<br />

strengths are go with them and that<br />

is what will help you to succeed<br />

in business.<br />

Article by: Janie Clark<br />

This month’s themed shoot is<br />

focused around the inspiration of<br />

Tim Burton. With our imaginations<br />

running wild, we ventured into the<br />

mystical woods to escape reality...<br />

34 STARTING A COTTAGE BUSINESS... IS <strong>IT</strong> FOR YOU?<br />

GODDESSES OF THE WOODS<br />

35


”<br />

<strong>UR</strong> <strong>IT</strong> has decided to<br />

start featuring themed<br />

shoots every month!<br />

We are putting our<br />

creative side to use and<br />

brainstorming unique<br />

ideas to provide better<br />

entertainment for our<br />

followers!... while<br />

having a little fun too!<br />

“<br />

’<br />

’<br />

“<br />

Curiouser<br />

and<br />

Curiouser<br />

.”<br />

- Tim Burton<br />

36 GODDESSES OF THE WOODS<br />

GODDESSES OF THE WOODS<br />

37


The<br />

Goddesses<br />

theWoods<br />

of<br />

Too Fast Too Soon:<br />

Signs Your Relationship is<br />

The first stages of a relationship are normally full of bliss making it difficult<br />

for people to smell a rat when their partners exhibit some behaviors. The<br />

allure of new love blinds so many and it takes confidence and sixth sense<br />

for one to call it quits as soon as a relationship starts. So, how do you<br />

know that your relationship is over? Here are top signs to look for to<br />

decipher whether your relationship is on the verge of a collapse.<br />

Ladies... It’s time to recognize<br />

and awaken the goddess in U!<br />

You Can’t Picture Yourselves<br />

Together in the Future<br />

Weddings are a perfect place for<br />

a couple to feel mushy and revisit<br />

their aspirations. For most people,<br />

weddings provide a platform for<br />

them to visualize their big day with<br />

their significant other. Unfortunately<br />

for you, the present is perfect but<br />

you cannot picture walking down<br />

the aisle with your partner. This is a<br />

red flag and an outright indication<br />

that you are with the wrong person.<br />

A much as the heat of the moment<br />

fills you with butterflies, it is time to<br />

face facts and move on no matter<br />

how hard.<br />

You Are Uncertain<br />

This usually happens when your<br />

significant other is simply a<br />

rebound. As much as you feel<br />

relief that you are in love again,<br />

all you secretly think when alone<br />

is whether the new partner is the<br />

right choice or your ex-partner. This<br />

situation only hurts you more than<br />

loneliness actually would and to<br />

top it up, you are probably wasting<br />

a genuine person’s time. The earlier<br />

you quit the better for the both of<br />

you, before you are too deep into it.<br />

The Only Reason You<br />

Meet is Sex<br />

Sex and intimacy are one of the<br />

prime indicators of a successful<br />

relationship. However, when this<br />

becomes the sole purpose for<br />

your interactions, then there is a<br />

cause for alarm. Other than the<br />

relationship serving as an emotional<br />

haven and personal system, it<br />

serves as an avenue for the release<br />

of sexual tension. The moment a<br />

sexual disconnect ensues, there<br />

will be nothing left to hold the<br />

relationship together.<br />

You Have no Control<br />

Over Your Life<br />

The relationship has started on a<br />

high note and you feel loved when<br />

your partner makes all decisions<br />

concerning your life. This is not<br />

initially a concern because you are<br />

drowned and drenched in the new<br />

found love but with time you realize<br />

that you are no longer yourself. You<br />

suddenly feel like you no longer<br />

know your friends, watch different<br />

shows and even miss events that<br />

you couldn’t miss before. A good<br />

partner loves you for who you are<br />

and does not change you or control<br />

your life. It is only a matter of time<br />

before the relationship begins feeling<br />

like a prison.<br />

Your Closest Friends and<br />

Family Disapprove<br />

It is a common thought that<br />

relationships are driven by two<br />

people-the ones in love. As much as<br />

this is true, it is also prudent to listen<br />

to advice given by close friends<br />

and relatives because they see what<br />

people in love are too blind to see.<br />

If most of your friends and relatives<br />

disapprove of your relationship,<br />

take time to understand them and<br />

try to see what they see and end<br />

the relationship. They could be<br />

potentially protecting you from a<br />

messy and hurtful break up.<br />

Article by: Vivian Achieng<br />

38 GODDESSES OF THE WOODS<br />

TOO FAST TOO SOON: SIGNS YO<strong>UR</strong> RELATIONSHIP IS OVER<br />

39


Vostra Il Ad<br />

40<br />

41


<strong>UR</strong> World,<br />

R Thoughts<br />

Senior Pic 1/2 page<br />

Q<br />

Why is everyone pressuring me into<br />

picking a college and a career path?<br />

I can’t even pick out shoes let alone<br />

what I want to do my whole life!! Why can’t<br />

I just wait and see what happens? Why do I<br />

have to choose now?<br />

A<br />

Dear Indecisive,<br />

My response depends on how old<br />

you are - if you’re 12, then you definitely<br />

have some time to “wait and see”. However,<br />

if you’re 17 or older, then I’m sorry, I agree<br />

with “everyone” in your life....to a point. I<br />

don’t think you need to decide on your<br />

career at this moment, but I do think you<br />

should get on the path to discover future<br />

career possibilities. College is a great way to<br />

take a variety of classes to help you figure<br />

out what you’re good at and what you<br />

enjoy. Even if you don’t know exactly what<br />

you want to do now, going to college can<br />

provide you with more options than you<br />

would have without a college education, so<br />

if you have that opportunity, take it! Part of<br />

moving into adulthood is taking responsibility<br />

for yourself and making decisions that are<br />

in the best interest of your future. The reality<br />

is, you won’t be in high school forever,<br />

and your family probably does not want<br />

to support you indefinitely while you figure<br />

things out. I understand that these decisions<br />

can be overwhelming, but life does not<br />

magically work itself out - you have to take<br />

some action if you want to have a successful<br />

future. Try talking to your school counselor -<br />

perhaps they can give you some guidance<br />

and make the process less stressful for you.<br />

Christy Beck,<br />

42 <strong>UR</strong> WORLD, R THOUGHTS<br />

43


Reasonable Resolutions for the New Year<br />

We have pretty much all been<br />

there – feeling like we have to<br />

make New Year’s resolutions every<br />

year and live up to not one, but a<br />

few changes throughout the year.<br />

We succeed for a month or two,<br />

then fall right back into the regular<br />

cycle of life.<br />

The majority of people make a<br />

goal to lose weight, exercise more<br />

frequently, or to somehow improve<br />

their physical body. But resolutions<br />

can and should be about more than<br />

that, and they should be attainable.<br />

Resolutions can be as simple as<br />

striving to learn to say “no ” to<br />

people expecting of us, taking an<br />

hour to oneself per day, or trying<br />

to do one good deed for someone<br />

else per day. It’s about changing in<br />

ways to improve ourselves and make<br />

ourselves feel better; it should not be<br />

about showing off to social media<br />

friends or feeling that socially we<br />

need to make and fulfill resolutions.<br />

<strong>2016</strong><br />

Perhaps we would feel more successful and fulfill our resolutions if<br />

we stayed on a reasonable course. Set a small-scale resolution or two<br />

and don’t set the limits so high out of reach.<br />

Even if losing weight is your New Year’s Resolution, set a realistic<br />

level of accomplishment, whether that is a pound a week, five pounds<br />

per month, or a goal to lose 10 pounds for the year. The numbers will<br />

vary from person to person, but the point is that we each know what<br />

is unrealistic for ourselves.<br />

If you’re competitive and an achiever, setting goals just out of reach<br />

may be your way to motivation. If you’re more of a procrastinator and<br />

unenthusiastic about making a change, set small goals you know you<br />

can push yourself to achieve.<br />

CONSIDER REASONABLE<br />

RESOLUTIONS SUCH AS:<br />

Reading more books in <strong>2016</strong>–<br />

Depending upon the type of person you are, that could<br />

be a book a month, three books a year, or whatever<br />

number is more than what you have been doing.<br />

Striving to be more loving<br />

to your partner -<br />

That could mean making their favorite meal, giving<br />

them a break, promising a massage a week…<br />

anything; whatever works for you.<br />

Giving more at church –<br />

You don’t give every week? Give a dollar or two<br />

each week. You normally give $10? Raise it a little.<br />

Cut back spending on<br />

unnecessary daily items –<br />

Do you really need Starbucks every single day?<br />

How about skipping a couple days a week. If you’re<br />

planning to spend $20 on lottery tickets, take it<br />

down to $10. You’ll have all that extra money for<br />

something else! Throw it in your kid’s piggy bank –<br />

that always feels good.<br />

Drink more water –<br />

So, how many people can never touch that “eight<br />

glasses” rule? Shoot for four or five and go from there!<br />

The possibilities are endless and the Web is a large<br />

place to get ideas and additional persuasion to keep<br />

your goals attainable. And remember to only make a<br />

couple resolutions – there is no need for a list of 20 or<br />

50 because no one is that good. You’ll feel wonderful<br />

living up to a New Year’s resolution and making a<br />

change for good.<br />

To set a reachable horizon, you’ll feel successful<br />

once you get there! To fail at a lofty goal is to feel<br />

even worse than before.<br />

Article by: Adeena Harbst<br />

44<br />

REASONABLE RESOLUTIONS FOR THE NEW YEAR<br />

45


FOR THE MONTH OF JANUARY <strong>2016</strong><br />

Overall Collective energy is going through the Winter<br />

Solstice. A time of inner reflection as well as a time of<br />

embracing others and showing gratitude for them in our<br />

lives. Review the past year and ask yourself what the<br />

most important lessons you have learned through your<br />

experiences. Start off the new year with a list of dreams<br />

you would like to accomplish more so than a resolution.<br />

Find fun ways to reach those goals and don’t forget to<br />

be grateful for all that you already have.<br />

CAPRICORN<br />

Virgo - It is important to embrace the energy of who you truly<br />

are. Facing fears is a way to grow strength. Don’t let others<br />

judgments hold you back from what you truly desire.<br />

Pisces - It is a time of purification for Pisces. A good detox<br />

would benefit you at this time so that you can also reflect on<br />

your many upcoming adventures. Be sure to drink more water<br />

and stick to a healthy diet. It is also a good time to treat yourself<br />

to a massage or reiki session. Your body will thank you later for<br />

paying more attention to yourself.<br />

Libra - It is time for Libra to take some time for themselves.<br />

Allow space between activities for you to recharge. You will be<br />

going through a bit of a transformation into a new chapter of your<br />

life. Observe new thoughts or ideas that come to you in this time<br />

of meditation or hibernation so that you can focus when the time<br />

comes to move forward with the bigger plan.<br />

Aries - The fairies card shows itself for Aires as a reminder it<br />

is important to be playful. Embrace Mother Earth around you as<br />

she is calling for your attention at this time. Take a moment<br />

to enjoy some fresh air. Just be sure to bundle up as it is the<br />

winter season.<br />

Scorpio - It is a time of love for the Scorpio. It is important<br />

to except love from others and to give love to others. Scorpios<br />

embrace this energy in a way to help the world. The love card<br />

is a sign of compassion. Give a listening ear to those around<br />

you. You will learn a lesson or two to help you along your own<br />

life path in the process.<br />

Taurus - The crystals card has shown itself to represent the<br />

spiritual force that is surrounding those who fall in the sign of<br />

Taurus. It is an important time for Taurus to bring complete<br />

focus to any particular subjects of interest as many of your<br />

projects will be coming to a completion.<br />

Sagittarius - It’s a time of synchronism for Sagittarius the green<br />

man is a symbol of synergy between your spiritual awareness,<br />

your personal self, and ego. There are clues around you that you<br />

aren’t acknowledging. However, don’t over analyze the situation<br />

instead embrace the lesson to be learned.<br />

Gemini - This is an important time for the Gemini to BREATHE<br />

stop and take a breath and examine the world around you. With<br />

this breath it is also important to release and past worries or<br />

anger that you are holding onto. It is a new year and time for<br />

a new beginning.<br />

Capricorn - Pay attention to your dreams and the messages<br />

they hold for you. It is a time of creation and you will be<br />

manifesting your own reality with the thoughts you hold closest to<br />

your heart. Be creative and take time to day dream about what<br />

it is you want in life. Create your own reality.<br />

Cancer - A right of passage is now. You may have thought<br />

this chapter would never end but the time is now. However this<br />

right of passage does come with a slight challenge of re-birth.<br />

As one door shuts and another opens you will be asked to let<br />

go of all that no longer serves you so that you can now thrive.<br />

Aquarius -It’s a time to count your blessings for Aquarius. The<br />

rainbow is a symbol of hope and appreciation from the elements.<br />

You have recently been going through a shift in your existence<br />

and are ready to release the extra baggage of past projects and<br />

obligations. It is important to reflect on memories because sometimes<br />

it is only when you look back at the memory you experience the true<br />

blessings that have come from the experience.<br />

Leo - There’s no surprise that the Leo energy is always full<br />

of POWER, but right ow it is amplified with the winter solstice<br />

energy. Now is the time to embrace that power and make a<br />

move in the best direction for yourself. There seem to be many<br />

opportunities making their way into your path and it is your choice<br />

to choose the best direction for yourself. Embrace the Power,<br />

the time is NOW.<br />

46 THIS MONTH’S TAROSCOPE<br />

47


JAN BACK<br />

COVER<br />

48

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