Veggie Sandwich: Quick, Healthy, and Delicious

Quick and Easy Veggie Sandwich on Honey Wheat Bread

With summer just around the corner I'm looking for quick, easy, healthy, and delicious food that will fill me up but won't weigh me down. I made this delicious sandwich and it hit the spot. It's super easy to make and packs lots of flavor. I sauteed enough mushrooms, peppers, and onions to make several sandwiches, so I can enjoy this dish more than once. It's great for a quick lunch or a post workout meal. The recipe is below.

Ingredients:

• 1 tsp. Olive Oil
• 1 medium onion sliced
• 1 small green pepper thinly sliced
• 1 carton mushrooms (or 1 can. Drain liquid)
• 1/2 tsp. salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 tsp. pepper (or to taste)
• 1 tsp. McCormick Italian Seasoning  (or to taste)
• 50/50 Organic Spring Mix (or whatever type of green salad/lettuce you prefer)
• Sliced tomatoes (I used grape tomatoes because that's all I had in the frig at the time)
• Bread (Sub/deli bread is good but has more calories. I used honey wheat)

Prepare:
Heat oil on medium in a skillet and prepare on side of bread with salad mix/lettuce and tomatoes. Once oil is heated, add onions, peppers, and mushrooms. Saute 5-7 minutes, add salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Remove from heat and spread veggie mixture onto other side of bread (garnish with cheese if you like). Voila! An easy and delicious sandwich.

Happy Eating and remember to be fabulous!

Late Night Reading and Writing

Right now as I'm writing this post most of you are in bed getting a good night's sleep in preparation for the next day. You will rise early, get dressed, and rush out the door to work. That used to be my routine, too. But ever since 2006, when I quit my full-time job to pursue a writing career, my days have been long and my nights even longer.

I'm currently under deadline for my 8th novel, working feverishly to complete it. In the meantime, the page proofs for my 7th novel, Secret Indiscretions (July 28, 2015) arrived on my doorstep with a deadline of its own. So while I'm writing one book I'm proofing another. The page proof stage is important because its the last edit before publication, and I have to devote the proper time to it. Thankfully, I've finsihed my first "read through" and now I'll re-read it again in between my writing. It's also time for me to start promoting and marketing my book in order to get the word out and have a successful release. As you can imagine, it's a lot of work.

It's not unusual for me to work until 3:00 a.m., sleep until 7:30 a.m., and then work until 3 or 4 the next morning. This is my routine. Sometimes my heavy workload is tiring and frustrating, but it's also a blessing. I've been given a great gift-- I'm able to do what I love! There's not a day that goes by that I'm not thankful for it. Talk about a fabulous life!

I'm getting ready to jump back into my manusript and tangle with the colorful characters dancing around in my head!

Until next time, be fabulous!

Blessings,
Trice

Books & Grits on Throw Back Thursday

There's nothing more Southern than grits. I love, love, love a good bowl of grits. They're warm, hearty, and they stick to your stomach and fill you up. I remember growing up my Grandma Allene (my maternal grandmother, God rest her soul) used to make the best grits, ever! I would gobble them down in record time. They were creamy and buttery with just the right amount of salt. Today I try to replicate my grandma's formula as best I can, and my grits turn out pretty darn good. But nothing beats my grandma's because she put her love into every bowl.

Eating a good bowl of grits reminds me of reading a good book. A good book with an interesting story line can warm you, fill you, and leave you satisfied, just like the coarsely ground corn kernels I love so much. I'm currently reading through the page proofs for my upcoming novel, SECRET INDISCRETIONS, which will be released July 28, and I started craving grits. As I was stirring them in the pot I started reminiscing about my grandma, and how much I miss her. She passed away when I was 16 years old, and the older I get the more I miss her. But I feel good knowing that she still lives on because her spirit is always with me, as well as the wonderful memories of great times we shared. One of the main characters in my novel, LOOKING FOR TROUBLE, was a wise old lady named Grandma Allene. She was fashioned after my grandma in many ways. Although my grandma didn't possess the gift of prophecy like the character in the book, she had the ability to guide her family with her love and wisdom.

I feel blessed on this Throw Back Thursday to know that I will always have a piece of my Grandma with me! 

Style on A Budget

I absolutely love shopping, and when I say I love it, I really mean it! I can shop from sun up till sun down and not get tired. I love shopping for clothes, shoes, make-up, housewares, cooking supplies, hair supplies, office supplies, groceries, you name it, I'm down for it! I'm the kind of shopper who doesn't have to have money to shop. That's right, I can window shop all day and enjoy myself. However, I do like to make purchases, and it thrills me to no end when I buy something at a great price.

But let's face it, shopping can add up, and for someone like me it can be costly because my taste leans toward high-end. I love quality and anything that sparkles catches my eye. However, this Southern Belle is also practical, and I know how to stretch a dollar until it screams. Even though I'm on a tight budget I refuse to forsake style or my beloved quality for price. If you're crafty and patient you can turn anything into a treasure.

These framed fashion pictures only cost me $4.35 each! They look super cute in my home office. Here's how I did it.

• Matted frame from Michael's = 50% off plus an additional 20% coupon brought the price down to $4.
• Fashion print = Free copied off the Net (can't remember which site, but Google "fashion prints")
• Copies of prints = $.35 ea. at UPS Store for color copy on good quality stock paper
• Silver paint = Free, I had leftover paint from a previous project and painted the frame and core of the matte.

Enjoy life and be fabulous!

An Apple A Day

The saying, "an apple a day keeps the doctor away," is very true. Eating a well-balanced diet that incorporates fruits, vegetables, protein and whole grains, contributes to a healthy body and promotes overall well-being. Last week I committed to incorporating fruit into my diet every day. So far so good, and with summer coming I'm looking forward to eating a host of tropical fruits.

Here's a picture of the fruit I'm currently eating. I love all kinds of fruits, especially bananas. But my favorite is watermelon, which I could eat year-round, and I can't wait until it comes into season. What's your favorite fruit?

Happy Eating!

How Writing Can Produce Blueberry Muffins

I'm currently under a writing deadline for my 8th novel. It's exciting, stressful, scary, exhilarating, and exhausting all wrapped into one. As I've stated many times, writing is a solitary endeavor that requires hours upon hours of uninterrupted time. Every writer has their own unique approach to their writing process, and they must establish a rhythm and environment that works for them. For me, it's important that I have an aesthetically pleasing environment (I love feminine things with bling) and it's got to smells good (I have a crazy amount of scented candles).

Two weeks ago I was in my office, typing away at my computer, when a sweet aroma tickled my nose. I'd lit a blueberry scone scented Yankee Candle and it smelled absolutely delicious. As the smell became more and more intense my stomach started rumbling. I was literally craving a blueberry scone. Well, I don't know how to make scones, but this certified Southern Belle knows how to make a mean muffin! Before I knew it I was in my kitchen pulling flour and sugar out the pantry, milk and eggs from the refrigerator, and a bag of frozen blueberries from the freezer. Then voila! Delicious homemade blueberry muffins.

The art of writing can produce great literature, but it can also produce delicious blueberry muffins!
  
                                                              

Delicious blueberry muffins

• 2 cups all purpose flour
• 2tbsp. baking powder (plus an extra pinch)
• 3/4 cup sugar (plus 1/2 cup for topping)
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 1 egg well beaten
• 1 1/4 cups milk (I use skim milk)
• 1 cup blueberries (use fresh or frozen)

Stir dry ingredients together. make a well in the center of the bowl and add oil, egg, and milk. Stir only enough to moisten the ingredients (too much stirring will cause tough, dry muffins). Lightly grease muffin pan and fill 2/3 with batter. Sprinkle sugar atop the batter. Bake in 425 degree oven for 15-20 minutes or until muffin tops are golden. Serve warm and enjoy!

The sugar sprinkled on top adds a deliciously sweet crunch

Gearing Up for a Summer of Hot Books!

Snow and frigid temperatures don't exactly go hand-in-hand with the South, but last month's Arctic blast threw everyone below the Mason Dixon Line for a loop. Thankfully spring is just around the corner, and no matter what part of the country you live in, you've got to be excited about that!

I have a feeling that spring will quickly catapult into summer, and if forecasters are right we're in for a hot one. I plan to enjoy the hot weather while reading some great books! Some of my favorite authors are releasing books in just a few months, and I can't wait. I'll be featuring author interviews with some of them right here on this very blog! Can you say, Woooohoooo!

I've included a small sampling of a few of the books I plan to read (and in some cases, re-read) this summer. Some are new while others have been out for a while, and all will be enjoyable. I'll feature more recommendations in a few weeks so stay tuned. In the meantime, I encourage you to pick up a few books, whether they're on this list or not, and spread the word to all your friends! Happy Reading!

The Ultimate Betrayal by Kimberla Lawson Roby

Bad Blood by Mary Monroe

Welcome to My Breakdown by Benilde Little

The Perfect Revenge by Lutishia Lovely

Driving Heat by Zuri Day

Miss Jessie's: Creating A Successful Business from Scratch--Naturally by Miko Branch

Baby You're the Best by Mary B. Morrison

Flea Market Fabulous: Designing Gorgeous Room With Vintage Treasures by Lara Spencer

Outliers: The Story of Success by Malcolm Gladwell

God Help the Child by Toni Morrison

Good Food + Good Book = Fabulous

One thing about Southerners is that we love good food! A delicious meal feeds the soul, and just as we need nourishment for our body, we also need it for our mind. Reading a good book feeds the soul. I love savoring a good meal and capping it off with a good book. With winter winding down (come on springtime!) I wanted to share two of my favorite things--food and books.

Here's a quick and easy recipe for delicious Southwest Chicken Soup, and information about a good book (which happens to be my upcoming novel) Secret Indiscretions. I hope you will enjoy both!

Southwest Chicken Soup

Ingredients:
1 tsp. olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 garlic clove, finely minced
2 cans chicken broth
Frozen or fresh corn
1 can black beans (rinsed and drained)
1 can whole tomatoes
1 can diced tomatoes w/green chiles
2-3 cups shredded chicken 

Heat one tsp. olive oil in a pot. Add chopped onions and minced garlic. Saute until translucent (2-3 minutes). Add next 6 ingredients. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium and cook for 20 minutes. Garnish with cheese, cilantro, and tortilla strips. Delicious!

Secret Indiscretions
Coming July 28, 2015- Click here to pre-order

Two couples, two unhappy spouses--one shocking solution. . .

Five years into her happy marriage, Geneva Mayfield is devastated to find that things have taken a turn for the worse. Her husband, Johnny, is suddenly hard to reach, distant, and works late too often for Geneva not to be suspicious. Is it because she's been pressuring him about having a baby? Feeling lonely and neglected, Geneva bonds with Samuel Owens, a colleague who is having marital trouble of his own. Soon, their relationship blossoms into an uncontrollable affair.

Bored with her husband, Samuel, and dead set against having a child with him, Vivana Owens is biding her time until she's ready to leave--and she's spending it with Johnny Mayfield. It's just a fling--until Vivana becomes obsessed with Johnny, especially once he tries to win back his wife. But affairs don't end easy--and soon one of the unfaithfuls will end up dead, one will end up in jail, and one just might get away with murder. . .

Happy Eating and Happy Reading...Stay Fabulous!
Trice Hickman

How Books Opened Up My World

Like many authors, my love of writing began with my love of reading. I've always been intrigued by the written word and the power it holds.

I grew up in a small Southern town in Eastern, North Carolina. There wasn't a lot to do and the cultural offerings (outside of my town's coastal charm) were slim to none. Books became my escape, and started my love affair with literature. Even at a young age I dreamed big dreams. I wanted to meet all kinds of people from different walks of life. I wanted to travel and visit exciting places. I wanted to sample different kinds of foods and customs. Essentially, I wanted to explore life, and I quickly discovered that books could help me do that. I would sit in my bedroom and travel, experience new adventures, solve problems, and meet new people--all without stepping out my front door. Books opened up my world.

Today I still love reading, and I'm blessed to be able to write books for a living. How awesome is that?! There's not a day that goes by that I don't give thanks for this blessing. I'm humbled by it, and thankful to God. In the coming weeks I'll be showcasing other authors on this blog who are also living their dreams, and who will share how they are doing it. In the process I hope their stories will inspire you to go after your dreams, too!

Until later, be fabulous!

Blessings,
Trice Hickman

She's Got It Covered Extended Version

Support these steel magnolias, female student athletes at Winston-Salem State University!

Recipe of the week: Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

 The mild weather that much of the country experienced during the holiday season is a thing of the past. The first full week of 2015 roared in with blistery winds and frigid temperatures. Even in the South, folks are bundled up from head to toe in coats, scarfs, boots, and gloves...oh, the accessory possibilities *sigh*...but that's for another post!

When it's cold outside, nothing warms you up like a bowl of hearty soup. And just like our trademark hospitality, soup is a southern staple. Every Southern Belle worth her salt (that's totally southern lingo!) knows how to make a good pot of soup. Soup is easy and delicious, it can feed a multitude of people, and it holds up well in the fridge for tasty left-overs. I love chicken noodle soup, and I have a recipe for a creamy concoction that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup with Veggies and Savory Herb Seasonings (it tastes as delicious as it looks).

Ingredients:

·       1 Tablespoon unsalted butter

·       1 small yellow onion

·       1 small bag carrots

·       4 celery stalks

·       2 garlic cloves, minced (I use the kind in the jar, or you can use garlic powder)

·       all-purpose flour (I don’t measure, but I’d say about ¼ cup or more)

·       salt (to taste)

·       ground pepper (to taste)

·       poultry seasoning (to taste)

·       fresh thyme (to taste)

·       7 cups chicken broth (I use low sodium)

·       2 cups water

·       shredded chicken (I use half a rotisserie chicken)

·       1 1/2 cup fat free half-and-half (you can use whole milk if you prefer)

·       uncooked wide egg noodles (I use ¾ of a 12 oz. bag)

Directions:

Heat the butter until melted in a large pot or dutch oven. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté until veggies become soft. Add flour and other seasonings. Stir and cook. Add broth and water and bring soup to a boil without stirring, and allow to boil for 3 minutes (this will help thicken the soup. Reduce the heat to medium-low, partially cover the pot with lid and allow to simmer for 20 minutes.  Next, add the chicken, half-and-half, and noodles. Cook until the noodles are tender and the soup has thickened. Taste and add more seasonings if needed.

You can serve this delicious soup with oyster crackers, or a nice, crusty french bread. Either way, it will be a hit! After you devour your soup, curl up with a good book to cap off a great day. Food for the stomach + Food for the soul = Fabulousity (I made that up!).

Happy eating and reading, and stay warm!

Blessings,

Trice

Goal Setting Tips for the New Year!

Happy New Year!

 

 

It's the beginning of the year! A fresh new start! This is the time of year when most people make resolutions. But oftentimes, resolutions don't last. A January 2013 article in Forbes Magazine states that a University of Scranton research study found that only 8% of Americans keep their New Year's resolutions. Instead of making resolutions I set goals, and I set them based upon what I believe is attainable and sustainable.

A Southern Belle must make sure she's on top of things, and she's always looking for ways to improve her life while making things better around her. A sure way to do that is to set goals. Here are a few tips that can help you set and achieve your goals for 2015 and beyond!

1. Be realistic-- It's okay to dream, and in fact, you should. But dream with your head in the clouds (for creativity and inspiration) and your feet on the ground (to steady yourself so you stay focused).
2. Define Outcomes-- Be specific about what kind of outcome or impact you want to achieve. Will accomplishing your goal(s) result in increased income, weight loss, job/career advancement, improved health, etc.? Knowing this will help you manage your priorities.
3. Create a timetable-- Never mistake activity for achievement. You can be busy doing a whole lot of nothing! Establish a timetable by which you would like to achieve your goal(s). This will keep you on schedule and help you become more efficient.
4. Develop a budget-- Whether your goal(s) will require out of pocket expenses or your time/human capital, it's an expenditure, and you need to account for it.
5. Delegate-- Ask for help! You don't have to do everything yourself. Work hard on the things that are within your control and delegate tasks to others who can assist you in reaching your goal(s).

Abundant Blessings for a Fabulous New Year!

 Trice Hickman

Video Message: Happy Holidays 2014

My Holiday Video Message from Me to You

Wishing you a fabulous holiday and a spectacular New Year!!

Be Fabulous!

How to Make an Ornament Wreath

I love a beautiful wreath on a front door! It's a signature stamp that greets guests and says, "Welcome, come on it!" It's the standard of Southern hospitality, and every Southern Belle I know has a wreath hanging on her front door throughout the year. I change up my wreaths according to each season, and I make them by hand so I can have exactly what I want! Because Christmas is my favorite time of year, I love creating a festive wreath that sparkles and shines with the spirit of the season. This year I decided to make an ornament wreath, filled with bright, vibrant colors. The great thing about an ornament wreath is that you can make it with ornaments of various sizes, shapes, and colors, and they will all come together and look fabulous! Here's my wreath below, and here's how to make one of your own.

Materials Nedded

• 1 green wreath (I used a 24" wreath that I purchased from A.C. Moore)
• Ornaments (You will need a lot! I used a combination of ornaments from Michael's, The Dollar Store, A.C. Moore, Home Depot, and Macy's)
• Hot glue gun
• Glue sticks (You will need a lot of glue sticks)
• Patience
• NOTE: I use a green wreath instead of a wire or foam wreath because I like incorporating greenery into my decorations. But you can use any type of round material for your wreath base.

Start by fluffing your wreath so that it's full and appears to have depth. Place ornaments where you intend to glue them. I start by placing my brightly colored and larger ornaments at the top, bottom, and sides of the wreath, then I fill in from there. Glue your ornaments in place and continue to fill in the empty spaces until your wreath is covered. Voila! Your finished product will be a gorgeous, custom made masterpiece that reflects your individual style.

Happy Holidays and remember to stay fabulous!
Blessings,

Paul C. Brunson Joins The #BreakEveryChain Movement!

This is powerful! Spread the word!

Tips for A Relaxing Holiday Season

Southerners are known for doing everything on a large scale, especially the holidays. We're talking turkey with all the trimmings, Christmas trees (several theme trees throughout the house is a must...and don't forget the front yard, too!), holiday feasts, shopping, caroling, family gatherings, and parties galore.

But as much fun as this festive season can be, it can also bring on stress, depression, and exhaustion. Even under the best of circumstances, the last six weeks of the year can cause major anxiety. But it doesn't have to! There's a number of things you can do to create peace, joy, and relaxation.

Here are a few ways to enjoy the holidays and keep your stress to a minimum.

Pray/Meditate-- This is an excellent way to center yourself, connect to a higher power, and gain a sense of peace. It doesn't cost a dime to pray, but you may pay for it if you don't.
Ask for help-- Don't try to do everything yourself. This is the season of giving, but it's also great to receive. If you're blessed to have friends and family who want to help you, bless them by receiving the blessing they want to extend to you.
Exercise-- It's estimated that most people gain 5 lbs. during the holidays. Food, parties, and late night eating can expand the waistline. Exercise can help take the pounds off and it can also help to clear the mind and relieve stress.
Massage-- Stress, along with cramming lots of activities into long days, can cause tight muscles, which can lead to pain, headaches, and poor health. Massage is a proven way to relieve pain and stress, and it's incredibly soothing. Treat yourself to the good life and get a nice, long rub down!
Laugh-- Laughter is medicine for the sole! A good laugh can erase even the worst of moods and can increase endorphins, giving you more energy to enjoy the holidays.
Love from a distance-- Let's face it, there are people who create stress in our lives, and some of them can be people we love. If you encounter an obstacle or problem, the first thing you try to do is remove it. Sometimes you have to take that approach with people, too. Sometimes you have to learn how to love from a distance. Surround yourself with positive people and positive things that will keep stress at bay.
Take Vitamins-- Some people take vitamins to boost energy, while others use them to replenish specific nutrients they're missing from their diet, or, as a result of a health condition. There's also vitamins that help relieve stress. Talk to your doctor, local pharmacist, or naturopath to find vitamins that will work for you. Valerian is a great, natural herb that I love. You can take the capsule whole, or break it open and make a tea. It calms, soothes, and relaxes.

 

Remember, the holiday season only comes once a year, so try to enjoy it! Life is meant to be savored slowly and enjoyed in abundance. From me to you, I wish you and yours a happy Thanksgiving!

PS--Stay tuned for my "Southern Tips for A Relaxing Holiday Season"which will be filled with hilarious things that only Southerners do!

Be Fabulous!
Trice

Baby, It's Cold Outside...and it's all about the scarf!

...I really can't stay - Baby it's cold outside
I've got to go away - Baby it's cold outside
This evening has been - Been hoping that you'd drop in
So very nice - I'll hold your hands, they're just like ice

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=--2Mwp7X-X0&list=RD--2Mwp7X-X0


Dean Martin's duet with Doris Day of, Baby It's Cold Outside is classic! I absolutely LOVE that song, not only during the holidays, but also during the year, and especially on days like this one.


Across the country, and especially in the Midwest and east coast, it's downright frigid outside.The bitter cold combined with biting winds make for an Arctic-like experience. Winter is a time to hunker down with comfort food and heavy apparel. But that doesn't mean it has to be hum-drum--beef stew and flannel. Winter can mean fine dining (put some wine in that stew for a zip of flavor) and you don't have to limit yourself to frumpy clothing. This season is prime time for fashion--fierce boots, stylish coats, elegant gloves, and oh-so-fly hats! I love it!


When you go out, make sure you layer up with thermal underwear, cotton tees, or anything else that's going to keep you warm under your clothes. Then accessorize your outer layer with warm and beautiful pieces that will keep you smiling through the cold. This season is all about the scarf! I adore a beautiful scarf. It's the perfect accompaniment for any outfit at any season. During the winter when the mood can be bleak, brighten things up with a pop of color around your neck. It will instantly turn a cloudy day to sunshine. Here, I'm wearing a red infinity scarf, perfect for the holiday season. It's made of soft wool with a beautifully woven design pattern. I picked it up at a flea market in Baltimore, MD; proof that you can find fashion on a budget! You can also find infinity scarves at your local department store (they are everywhere).

Bundle up and be fabulous!!
Blessings
Trice

Wine, Popcorn, and a Movie

I haven't posted here in quite some time because I was under deadline for my 7th novel titled, Secret Indiscretions, which will be released July 28, 2015!

I'm so excited to be out of my writing cave, you have no idea! When I pressed send and submitted my manuscript to my editor, I literally jumped for joy, and then proceeded to take a long nap. It feels fantastic to have completed another novel! And although I have another deadline looming for book #8, I'm going to take a little time to relax (just a little) while gearing up for the next project.

I'm enjoying this brief reprieve and I'll be doing things I enjoy; cooking and baking, hanging with friends, watching movies, reading good books, and of course, shopping! Last weekend I treated myself to a long bubble bath by candlelight, and then I nestled under my comfy chenille throw with popcorn and wine while I watched, The Devil Wears Prada. That movie had me in stitches!! I enjoyed myself (I'm great company, if I do say so!) It was a fabulous evening!

Life is a beautiful experience. Each day is a blessing, so make it count and live the most fabulous life you can. Do things that bring you happiness, excitement, and fulfillment. It can be something as extravagant as a trip to Paris, or as simple as wine, popcorn, and a movie. Whatever you do, make sure it brings your heart great joy!

Be Fabulous!
Trice
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Challenges Help You Learn...

TGIF! Whew! This week has been filled with many challenges and what feels like not enough time. I've been working long hours each day (and into the wee hours of the morning) to finish my novel. Some days I've felt tired, overwhelmed, uninspired, and doubtful about my course. I've had to adjust my writing process along with my work and life schedule. My entire flow is different and somewhat unfamiliar to me. I'm entering uncharted waters, not only with this book, but with my life. It has been unsettling at times. 

But in the midst of it all, I'm learning a lot about myself along this journey. I've learned that I'm so much stronger than I give myself credit for (because I bounce back every day). I'm resourceful (I find a way to get things done). I'm determined (I refuse to give up, period!). And I'm creative (these characters and scenes!...). I'm not bragging, I'm simply sharing my truth, and I thank God for my gifts. I'm also thankful for the angels in my life who support and encourage me daily. 

My fabulous friend, let your strength and determination lead you to resourceful and creative ways to live your life and grow. Plant good people around you and stay encouraged! And never, ever stop dreaming, believing, or wanting more. Faith + Action = Results! 

Be Fabulous!

I'm Feeling Good!

"It's a new dawn, it's a new day, it's a new life, for me...and I'm feeling good."--Nina Simone

The late, great, Nina Simone and I have a few things in common. She was from North Carolina, and so am I. She was African American, and so am I. She stood up for social justice and civil rights, and I champion those struggles, too. She had her own style and sense of beauty, and she embraced them...and now, so do I!

It took me 40 plus years to realize that yes, I am beautiful, and I don't apologize for it. It's not a bragadocious statement, it's simply true. Beauty presents itself in many ways. Most people think of beauty in an aesthetic way, which is natural because we are a visual society. But real beauty comes from within, and transends to the physical. Ever wonder why some women who have "average" looks can attract men like bees to honey, or appear in top fashion magazines, or be herolded as the most popular girl at school, or be the life of the party whom everyone wants to know? It's because of their essence. The unique way they carry themselves. The kindness they extend to others. The talent they allow to shine from within. The respect they show and demand in return. And the confidence and comfort they posesses that lies in knowing they are wonderfully made, exactly as they are. This is the beauty that Ms. Simone owned, along with her beguiling looks; rich dark skin, expressive brown eyes, thick, lucious lips, and impeccable style. This is the beauty that I, too, possess (sans the thick, luscious lips...but you get my drift).

Southern women own their style, embrace their beauty, share it with the world, and do it like nobody else!

"It's a new dawn, it's a new day, it's a new life, for me...and I'm feeling good."

This song resonates for me, as does the life of Ms. Simone. She was a fierce woman, and she did things her own way. She was a sister on a mission who broke down barriers, stepping right over sterotypes of what beauty, talent, and love was supposed to look like. She ushered in a new day! Her life so inspires me, and as I continue my research to learn more about this interesting woman, I'm discovering many things about myself in the process (more on that later). 

Be fabulous, just the way you are!

Blessings,
Trice

If You're Gonna Do Something, Do It Big!

One thing about a Southern Belle--we take everything we do to a whole new level! If we decide to do something, we do it BIG! Take for instance my post-workout meal this afternoon. Normally after I workout I eat a light meal, usually a salad, and I feel satisfied. But today I was hungry--ribs touching my backbone kind of hungry--and I knew a salad wasn't gonna cut it. So I grilled a thick, juicy burger (charcoal grill, which is the ONLY way to go!). Well, I didn't want that delicious burger to stand by itself, so I cooked up some golden fries to go along with it. When I tell you it was scrumptious...Lord have mercy, it was good!

Moral of the story...If you're going to splurge, go all out. After I grilled my thick, juicy burger a little voice said, "Make a small side salad to go with it, that way you can reduce your caloric intake and not ruin your entire workout." But then a bigger voice said, "Excuse me, but that burger needs fries, and you need to enjoy it!" If I ate burgers and fries every day I would've listened to that little voice, but I don't, so I didn't.

Life is too short to deprive yourself of what you want. Moderation and balance is key to most everything. But it also pays to splurge every now and then. Live big, think big, dream big, and enjoy the beautiful blessing we call life...with a thick juicy burger and fries to wash it down!

                                           Do it big and enjoy!

Delicious. Quick. Easy...who wouldn't want to make this!

If you're like me, your days are filled to the brim, spilling over into late evenings most of the week. Between work, family, and the demands of everyday life, finding time to prepare a meal, or even a tasty snack, can be challenging. It's so easy to just grab something on the go. But oftentimes that can be expensive, not to mention it tempts you to make choices that aren't always healthy.

One thing about Southern women; we know how to make find ways to juggle it all. Here's a quick and easy recipe that's delicious, quick, and inexpensive to make. The recipe for the mixture below is easy, and leftovers can be stored in the frig for a few days.

The dish can be served as a meal or curl up with a good book and enjoy it as a snack!

Be fabulous and enjoy!

Black bean and corn Quesadillas. Yum!!

Ingredients: (I don't measure, so just judge according to your taste)

8 inch flour tortilla (I use whole wheat. The taste is richer than the white)
1 can black beans, drained
1 can corn, drained and rinsed (or small bag of frozen corn)
Salsa (I use half a medium size jar)
1/2 small onion, finely chopped
Generous pinch of brown sugar (I use Sugar in the Raw)
Cheese (I use Kraft shredded Mexican cheese blend)
1 tablespoon butter
Olive oil (enough to lightly coat the pan)

Pour olive oil in skillet and heat. Add onions and saute. Stir in black beans, corn, salsa, and sugar. Cook until thoroughly heated, then remove from pan and put mixture aside. Melt butter in a large skillet (medium heat), then place one tortilla atop melted butter. Sprinkle with cheese. Top black bean mixture evenly on cheese. Place another tortilla on top. Make sure to press the edges down with the spatula you're going to use to turn it. Let tortilla cook for a about two minutes on each side. Cut into rectangles and voila! Yummy!

Summer 2014 Books | Praise 100.9 & 92.7

 I'm soooo excited to have two of my novels, LOOKIN FOR TROUBLE, and BREAKING ALL MY RULES, listed on the Summer 2014 Book Pic list!!



Summer 2014 Books | Praise 100.9 & 92.7

The Life of an Author: 4 Questions with Blog-in-the-round

FOUR QUESTIONS AND PASS IT ON: I love this idea of the blog-in-the-round. The lovely and talented, Trisha R. Thomas, author of the wildly popular, Nappily series, picked me and passed the literary baton my way. Thanks a million, Trisha! I’m honored to participate and share my experiences. Happy Reading!

What am I working on/writing?
It’s a great thing when a writer can say they’re working on something…anything…because this is a tough industry. I feel very blessed to be working on several projects this summer. My sixth novel, Troublemaker, will be released July 29, and I’m currently working on the promotional campaign to launch the book. I’m also on a tight writing deadline to complete my seventh novel (which will be released next year) by the end of the summer. In addition to my book work, I recently launched a new blog (which you’re reading now!) called Fabulous Southern Belle. FSB is a culture and lifestyle destination that pays homage to my Southern roots while providing nuggets of helpful information that make life fabulous!

How does my writing/work differ from others in its genre?

Like every author, I like to believe I have a distinctive voice with the stories I write. I work hard to make my characters relatable, authentic, and believable. My storylines always contain colorful secondary characters who warrant a book of their own. I’ve recently begun to set my stories in small, sleepy southern towns, as opposed to the big cities and foreign countries that is often the setting of many women’s contemporary fiction books currently on the market.

Why do I write what I do?

This is a very good question! I write because I love the adventure of creating worlds out of whole cloth, filled with interestingly complex characters who face challenges and dilemmas.  I think most people believe that writers write about themselves or people they know, and many do, but I’ve yet to be that specific in my work. However, I do impart pieces of myself into the characters I create and I definitely draw upon what I observe in everyday life. I also write what I like to read about, which is—love, family, intrigue, romance—and those elements help me create compelling stories that people can relate to.

How does my writing process work?

My writing process is pretty simple, in that I can write anywhere as long as I have uninterrupted time. I can write in my home, at the library, on a train, in the airport, etc., just as long as I have a long stretch of uninterrupted time that will allow me to get into the minds of my characters. I’ve also started outlining my chapters, which helps me write more efficiently.


I ONCE AGAIN WANT TO THANK MY FRIEND, Trisha R. Thomas, for inviting me to join this wonderful effort which supports, encourages, and highlights authors and the work we do. I’m passing the torch to two very talented writers; Karla Brady and Lutishia Lovely, who will be posting their Q&A in the next two weeks.

Karla Brady is one of the sharpest, wittiest authors I know, and her skill draws you into the wonderful characters and plots she creates. Lutishia Lovely is a powerhouse in the literary industry, whose pure talent and amazing work ethic have made her a national bestseller book after book after book. I can’t wait to read what these ladies have to say!

As always, enjoy life and be fabulous!!