Matte Lipstick Love

Matte Lipstick Love

BOLD AND BREASTLESS

February 11^th is just another day for most, but it is a day of confirmation for Shondia McFadden-Sabari.  On this date in 2011, God’s promise unfolded for Shondia, she was officially cancer free.  Shondia’s story is one filled with both trials and triumph but despite everything, you can witness God’s favor as you travel through her life.  I remember strolling down my Facebook timeline a few weeks ago and seeing a post by Shondia.  In the post she was reaching out to a friend who was battling cancer but more than that, battling doubt and depression. She offered words of encouragement along with a photo that made my proud to know such a bold, fierce and fearless woman.  The photo was of herself topless and breastless.  She displayed her scars to promote the courage and faith in God that she had in another women.  Why because she is her sister’s keeper.   

Shondia McFadden-Sabari lives in Atlanta, with her husband and their two children. Shondia is the Executive Director of BOLDANDBREASTLESS, Inc. She was raised by her maternal grandparents, the late Eva and Levan McFadden in Timmonsville, South Carolina. Shondia has traveled all over the world with her husband, who is a Major, in the Army. Shondia earned a bachelor’s of science degree in 1997, in Child and Family Development, from Benedict College in Columbia, South Carolina. She earned a masters degree in 1998, in Human Resources Development, from Webster University in St. Louis, Missouri. A former elementary school teacher, Shondia is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Shondia is the Georgia State Coordinator, for the Delta Sigma Theta/American Cancer Society partnership. She’s a board member, of the Georgia Breast Cancer Coalition Fund. Shondia is a LIFE member, of the National Council of Negro Women. A documentary of Shondia’s journey premiered at the Black Women’s Agenda Luncheon, at the 2011 Congressional Black Caucus. GE sponsored Shondia for their 2011 War on Cancer Campaign. Shondia was the Keynote Speaker, at the 2012 James E. Clyburn Research Scholarship Foundation’s, annual luncheon. Additionally, Shondia spoke at the 2012 sixth annual, National Conference on Health Disparities. Essence.com, Yahoo News, BET.com, and the Huffington Post have done articles on Shondia. She spoke at the Atlanta Braves, 2013 Breast Cancer Awareness Day. Shondia also spoke at the Breast Party Ever, a national event sponsored by BET and Planned Parenthood. Shondia was one of five breast cancer survivors, honored by the Atlanta Falcons at their 2013, Breast Cancer Awareness game, televised on ESPN. FOX 5 Atlanta has featured Shondia in several news segments. Shondia loves cooking for her husband and children, spending time with senior citizens, and attending networking events. She enjoys traveling and sharing her amazing story with others. Her motto is, “I scared the hell out of cancer, so it took my breasts and left!”

On December 23, 2010, shortly after her husband returned home from his second deployment, Shondia was diagnosed with breast cancer.  Shondia say she was blessed despite the diagnoses because, “He allowed my husband to make it back home safely, so that he could be with me when I got the news and started on my journey!”   No lumps, no discomfort, no discharge, nothing to make her think she had breast cancer. Shondia says, “It was like a still small voice that said I needed to get a mammogram. I wasn’t hearing strange voices and I didn’t see any shadows! It was the Holy Spirit that led me to get that mammogram.”  The very next day, Shondia went to have a mammogram and almost two weeks later she was diagnosed with cancer in both breasts! In her right breast, stage 0. She also had two different types of cancer in her right breast, DCIS and LCIS. In her left breast, DCIS. However, there was an area that was a stage 0 and another area that was a stage 1A, that was near a blood vessel!  February 11, 2011, Shondia underwent a double mastectomy.  She later made the bold decision not to have reconstructive surgery and doesn’t wear breast forms. Diagnosed at the age of 36, is truly a survivor and proof that early detection can and can save your life.  She say, “ I’m thankful that I’m confident and bold enough to show other women, that if they get a Mastectomy, it’s okay to have reconstructive surgery or wear prosthesis. However, it’s okay to be breastless too!”   Life is all that really matters

“I’m so thankful, God allowed me to survive breast cancer! I’m eager, to share my testimony with the world! Early detection is so important! I was scared; when I was told I had breast cancer! But, I never questioned GOD, I was never depressed or angry and I never will be! I’m just so thankful; I passed the test that allowed me to have this amazing testimony. I’m on a mission, to inspire people that have been affected by cancer. One thing is for sure; my breast cancer experience didn’t affect my self-esteem! Sometimes, I look at pictures of myself when I had breasts and jokingly I say to those twins, what did I do? You two tried to kill me and I took good care of both of you, for 36 years! Well, I don’t even miss them and my husband is still happy and in love with me! I think maybe they’re somewhere in a lab, being studied! Perhaps, floating in a river! Either way, they’re gone or the cancer is gone! I’m so thankful, that I didn’t have to do chemotherapy or radiation. Also, my margins are clear and so is my mind! Additionally, my onco type dx score was a 7. In the bible, 7 mean completion! Therefore, I will thank God every day, for healing my body and for allowing me to be completely healthy and completely cancer free!”

From Shondia’s experience with cancer, she gave birth to her organization BOLDANDBREASTLESS, Inc.  a non-profit organization formed to educate, inspire, and motivate women, children, and men that have been affected by breast cancer. The organization  raises and use funds to increase awareness, assist cancer patients, cancer survivors and co-survivors, as well as motivate the general public, to take an active role in participating and partnering with cancer and health institutions and other advocates to help find a cure for cancer.  Some of Shondia’s most recognized work is more a labor of love for her.  She has this amazing love for others and a dedication to encourage, empower and educate as many people as she can no matter what their situation is.  Proof of this is the relationship that she has formed with Jakorey Moore, a sweet little boy living with brain cancer.  Because of her relationship Jakorey he has touched the hearts and received the prayers of many.  

Shondia is such an inspiration to many women including myself.  She never hesitates to share her testimony and give unselfishly to others.  She could very well have gone through this journey quietly and returned to normal life, but she didn't because she knew that she had work to do.  When I thought about this, it reminded me of a statement that I made to Jakorey’s mom.  Now I know that it holds true for many of us if not all.  “God brings us to situation not for us but many times for others,” this is certainly true for Shondia because her message continues to save live, encourage others and empower them to live beyond their situation.   Shondia McFadden-Sabari; Passionate (about life), Happy (with who she is), Appreciative (of God for his blessings) and True (to herself and others……. P.H.A.T GIRL FRESH!!!!! 

Darling Nikki......

What else could you possible want from Nikki Minaj, cause she is serving up EVERYTHING NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Nicki Minaj didn't hold back ANYTHING when it came to her outfit. She rocked a Mark Fast Dress in the first few shots, followed by an equally stellar body suit by Luxe & Le’Bra, Nicki showed off those curves that won’t quit.‪#‎PHATGIRLFRESH‬ ‪#‎NIKKIMINAJ‬ ‪#‎WERKBITCH

Melt Cosmetics Ultra Matte

I know that all of my friends and followers know that I am a MAC Girl, especially when it comes to lipstick.  Yes, I am obsessed with lipsticks period and I live for a matte lippie.  I have tried many but I have to say, MAC is my absolute favorite.  However, I have to tell you that I have definitely found a new love.  I receive an order from Melt Cosmetics this week and I must admit I was pleased.  I have been stalking their website for months on end because many of the more popular color were continuously sold out.  Luckily a tip from another lipstick lover enabled me to finally get my order placed. 

Because I know the qualities of good lipstick and what I don’t like, I am very particular when it comes to ordering from new companies.  I have watched several reviews on Melt Cosmetics and their ultra matte lippies all which were favorable for the most part with the exception of those individuals that just don’t like matte lippies.  Even with all of the information that I had, I still decided to be safe and order one.  I ordered DGAF because I love the color and I was confident that it would look FAB on me, and it did.  Not to mention the texture is great and there is no need to reapply.  The thing I like most, which is different from MAC’s matte/retro matte, is that it has a little moisture.

I can’t say enough how much I love this lippie and the way it looked on me. In terms of lipsticks, this is one of the best, right up there with MAC.   Hell while I am working on the blog, I went over to the site and ordered “Blow.”  That is $19.00 I don’t mind spending, at all!! So yes, I am officially a Melt Girl too!!!!  #PHATGIRLFRESH #LIPSTICKMAFIA #MELTDGAF

My Black History

I honor of black history month I want to start by giving you a little of my foundation. The origin of my strength, love and faith in God. 

The woman in the picture is Albertha Wheeler Mccoy (Mabert), born February 1, 1904. She was born and raised on an Indian reservation in Early County Georgia. Her mother a full blooded indian, her father a black man, Mabert and her siblings bore the resemblance of both parents ( soft long hair, smooth deep brown skin and piercing blueish gray eyes).  Albertha married John Mccoy(Grand daddy John)at a early age and started a family.  The Mccoy clan grew to 11 child but Mabert was a mother to many many more.

People who grew up around her often talked about her strength and wisdom.  They spoke of the love she had for others and God. I remember her telling me how she walked miles on Sunday to get kids for Sunday School and after church she would walk them all back home. People have spoke of how she always feed, clothed and housed people in need.

Some of my fondest memories were of Mabert and some of the greatest knowledge I have came from her. I remember sitting in the house watching The Young & Restless with her while the other kids played outside. I remember how she would nod off and I would say Mabert you sleep but she would wake up and tell me everything that happened.  I remember the conversation we had when she found out I was pregnant with Zayed and how she said she wouldn't get to see him be born but to "bare down and have that baby." 

She was so strong, she never complained of illness or pain. On her final day, she just peacefully transitioned to heaven after telling us that she was going to have breakfast with her husband( who died before I was born). Listening to her morning spirituals as she did every morning, within 3 minutes of her making that statement, she was gone.

Of all the children, grand children and even great grand children that had come from the Mccoy clan, none ever had the pleasure of sharing the same birth month as Mabert. However, after her death in September, I gave birth to that baby that she said she wouldn't be alive to see on February 9th.  While she may not have been there physically I remembered exactly what she told me, "bare down and have that baby" and that is what is did..... HAPPY BIRTHDAY MABERT, REST IN PEACE AND LOVE! #PHATGIRLFRESH

P.H.A.T. GIRL FRESH presents...... LIFE STYLED

May 3,2014 at Harlem Nights Ultra Lounge in Atlanta, Georgia..... it is going down in a MAJOR WAY!!! P.H.A.T. Girl Fresh will be celebrating its anniversary sponsored in part by Full Blossom Magazine. This event will include the who's who in fashion, design and makeup artistry. Not to mention an elite group of successful men and women from all walks of life. This event will pay homage to some highly noted individuals with huge presence in the industry who generously pour into the lives of woman.. Stay tuned for more detailed information and announcements in the coming days. This event WILL sell out!!

If you are a business owner or work in the industry in any capacity, this is an amazing opportunity to build your brand. This is the perfect opportunity to reach a larger market and network. Don't miss an chance to prosper socially and financially. Below are areas that are needed however, this doesn't exclude any other possible areas not listed..... If you are interested please email iamphatgirlfresh@gmail.com.

Designer(all sizes)

Boutiques(all sizes)

Makeup artist

Hairstylist

V.I.P. attendants

Vendors

Sponsors(financial and gift bags)

Photographers

Hostess

Support team members

Bloggers

Videographers

Laughing in the Face of Adversity

I am sure that everyone at some point has fell victim to their assumptions.  I can admit that I have plenty of times, and this situation was no different.  As I prepared for my interview with the beautiful Editor-in-Chief of POSE Magazine, Tiffany Jones Keaton, I found myself replaying the things that I already knew about her.   Editor-in-Chief of POSE, finalist on Monique’s F.A.T Chance in 2006 and a proud mother of what has to be the most adorable little boy.  I even knew that at a point in her life she struggled with capturing her feminine side, although she seems to have mastered it now.  Despite all that I learned about Tip Jones, there was double that I didn't know.

Tip Jones, a beautiful, successful and talented woman.  Tip Jones, loving mother, devoted wife and inspiration to all that come in contact with her.  Tip Jones, a woman who has attempted to take her own life nearly 30 times but was save when she heard, “the voice of God.”  Tip Jones, a woman with a testimony that every woman can identify with in some manner.  Tip Jones, a strong, God fearing woman who is making huge deposits into the bank of life. 

I don’t know where I heard it but the phrase, “thank God, I don’t look like what I have been through,” continues to come to mind as I replay the conversation with Tip.    When she and I begin talking about her life, she explained that she lived a comfortable childhood and even graduated high school with honors at the age of 16 years old.  However, In the midst of all that Tip found herself depressed, taking an assortment of medication, receiving electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and hospitalized.  As she travels back to her final suicide attempt, Tip recalls hearing God say “get up and that is what she did.”  During her hospital stay for this final attempt, Tip says that she made God a promise; “if you allow me to get off these meds without having withdrawals, I will never take them again.”

And so it was, Tip Jones began to walk towards her destiny.  She stated that she began working security jobs but she “knew that her life wasn’t where it was going to stay.”  She like most of us had dreams and although she didn’t know what to call it, she knew at a very young age that she would one day be an entrepreneur.   After attending her first model call with pumps in hand and Timberlands on her feet, Tip attends the casting for Monique’s F.A.T. Chance with little to no expectations.  However, she ended up living in a mansion with other women from all walks of life.  Tip stated that although she “had no job and only $40 in her pocket,” she said to God, “okay, this is my life. 

Now I know that most of you are thinking, wow, great story.  Well it isn’t over.  After laughing in the face of adversity and coming a little closer to her destiny, Tip found herself face to face with death again.  During what is supposed to be one of the happiest times of life, she experiences more hell.  During her pregnancy, Tip became so ill that she “wrote out her will.”   “Once I gave birth, I instantly began to feel better but five days later, I could not walk or hold my son,” Tip stated.  However, once again, Tip laughed in the face of adversity. 

Tip began working in the plus size industry under the wing of pioneer Gwen Devoe, at The Plus Academy.  This is also where her other baby, POSE Magazine was conceived.  Since then the magazine has grown into a major publication that has featured the who’s who in plus size industry.  Although Pose is highly respected, that isn’t good enough for Tip Jones; she is ready to take her baby to the next level. 

With the expansion of the magazine, working on her memoirs, managing her husband’s career and maintaining her other businesses, Tip is a busy woman.  However, she still makes time to pour into the lives of other women.  Tiffany knows that God took her to those low places in her life so that she could one day save other girls and women.  She identifies with the responsibility that has been placed on her life and she doesn’t take it lightly at all.  Tip uses her life’s truth as a map that guides other women to live their best lives. Many women (including me), see her and think she is too fabulous to know their struggles, but those are just assumptions.  The bold, fierce and fearless woman that stands before us is our sister and like so many of us, womanhood did not greet her with a smile.

 Tip Jones is not superwoman.  Nevertheless she is without a doubt; passionate about life, happy with whom she is, appreciative to God for His many blessings and true to herself and others…….. TIP JONES IS P.H.A.T. GIRL FRESH