Your Post Holiday Weekend Plans

The weekend after thanksgiving usually means work, lingering family members, or a whole bunch a plans that you never planned with or without your permission…..with or without people you may or may not want to be with but…..what the HEY it’s the Holidays. However  if you are in need of something to do this weekend I got you covered, check out these great weekend suggestions I found you!

Food

Thanksgiving will be OVER and if you are like I the thought of dressing and ham makes you want to hurl. So where can you go in Atlanta that is as far away from soul food and country cooking as possible? Nan Thai Fine Dining is the place to be. A close friend of mine and fellow foodie casually in conversation asked “Kristen have you ever been to Nan, that place on the corner of 17^th and Spring Street”? I nonchalantly replied “No” and as her eyes lit up and she said the words “we have to go there” I knew the place that I passed by several times over the years was the very place I'd been  missing out on. For me Thai food can be hit or miss but when it comes to Nan I have got nothing but rave reviews.

Thai is a little different from Chinese, and to me it’s a little better.  It offers a more upscale taste for a more mature palate so if you are looking for something different I highly suggest this place. It is Fine Dining so expect to spend a few more bucks but its really worth it. They have all types of curry: red, green, panang, you name it, Pad Thai which is my all-time favorite, and an interesting dish on the menu called Larb Kai which includes a ginger lime marinated chicken breast, topped with mint, pared with garlic rice and I think we have ourselves a meal. Check out the site for yourself and don’t get turned off by the names of the entrées, venture out a bit and develop your taste buds.

http://www.nanfinedining.com/default.html

Fun & Adventurous

If shopping is fun to you why not get out and enjoy those Black Friday sales? Every store everywhere will be having a door buster sale, even the weave shops so if you're looking for discounts, Friday is your day. Personally I love shopping but you couldn't pay me to shop on Black Friday. During the day I typically snack on leftovers, hang with my non shopping family members and plot our Friday night plans, if any.

Friday night plans?!?!  How about you go see Black Naivety? I don’t know what’s up with the African American films this year but they are in full effect. It is good to see African Americans on the big screen in a positive light. I am a sucker for musicals and from my knowledge that is exactly what the move is about. Spreading the joy of Christmas, Christ, & family I am all for it. So on Friday night you can catch me at AMC checking out this great holiday movie! Or and I also heard Hunger Games 2 was a smash. I must admit the first one got me and I would never choose this type of movie, but it was really good!

Have you ever heard of LeGairBrand Boutique? Well they have one opening here in Atlanta this Saturday and the grand opening will be banging! They will have live performers, a fashion show and much more so if you're looking for something different to do this weekend, here's your choice! Check out the flyer above for more details!  

    

Empowerment

As we are in the middle of the holiday season I challenge each of you to think of those in need year round. While turkey drives are commendable, there is someone somewhere that struggles to put food on the table daily. Get more involved in your community, keep your ears open, ask questions, because someone needs your generosity!

As always I am an advocate for fun and hard work but it all needs to be balanced with some quality time with the Father. I recommend Free Chapel, located in Gainesville, GA however they have a live stream you can enjoy from anywhere. If Free Chapel does not interest you, YouTube some sermons, visit your local church, or tune into a pastor on TV, just make sure you GET IT IN!

http://www.freechapel.org/live/

***All pictures were taken from the event or restaurants page or Google*** 

My Friend's Attention Seeking Behavior is Embarrassing!

Question: One of my  close friends craves attention when we go out. She always dresses provocatively, talks loud and sometimes inappropriate to get male attention, and the list goes on. I love her to death but I recently stopped hanging with her because sometimes she just doesn’t know how to act. She’s really fun and will do anything for you, but she cock blocks every time we go out, making sure she gets ALL the attention. She keeps asking why we don't hang out anymore and I feel bad for cutting her off. What should I do?

Answer: Well it looks like your friend suffers with a little bit of Histrionic personality disorder. In short this individual does everything to get attention and has an attitude when they don’t! I have met people like that and it really breaks your heart because on one hand you love them dearly AND on the other hand they piss you off!

Well first I am going to say have a talk with your friend, be candid and tell her what she’s doing. These type individuals are usually in some serious denial  so you may have to go to the extreme and record her or provide evidence to support your claim. Taking a neutral yet mutual witness with you may also help as long as you two don't gang up on her.  This way you tackle the situation head on and then you really know what you should do regarding the friendship. If she’s receptive to the feedback give her another chance. If she screws that up move along to the next step.

Next strategically plan where to invite her. I used to think I could mix all my friends up and hang out as one big, happy, friendly circle; a lesson I quickly learned doesn’t work! This particular friend provides great company when you go to loud places. For example: to a club, lounge, concert, church lol places where she will be drowned out by the loud music and all the other histrionically personality disordered women in the room. Yes even in church lol. But to dinner parties, and galas, private events, or the man you likes BBQ…… then she isn’t invited!

Lastly you have to weight your pros and cons with this friendship! Ask yourself: Life without her would be___________? I would venture out to say a little boring, or at least turned down a bit which sometimes is appropriate but sometimes a lively and vibrant friend is necessary. Learning to accept her for who she is and understanding when you can’t handle that, is the glue necessary to maintain this friendship! Be real with yourself: that spicy girlfriend is always fun when VIP, FREE, and random nights end up being your best nights are involved so understand her value in your life and your value in hers. She appreciates who you are, there may be a calming affect that you bring to her life that she craves, just don’t let that drain you!

Hope this helps~

*All of the question are submitted via FB for KWK Ask Kristen Fridays*

                               *All images are from Google*

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We're Both Pregnant By Him.....What Should I Do?

Question: I am pregnant with my second child and I just found out my boyfriend may have another woman pregnant. He says he doesn't think it is his! I know he loves me and he takes care of my baby and me. I don’t know what to do.

Answer: What else is there to do? You are pregnant, correct? How far along are you? Congrats!!! Since this is just your boyfriend I suggest you focus on you and your baby. You really only have 2 options: make the best decision for you and your baby or wait on boyfriend to make the decision for you! I think once again since we are talking about your boyfriend (it would be a little different if it were your husband, a concept that requires a different blog post) your main concern regarding him should be if he is willing to or man enough to take care of your child!  You, on the contrary, will have to depend on God and your own ability to take care of yourself and your baby. Boyfriend can up an decide that he wants to pursue a relationship with baby momma #2, or someone totally different and leave you out in the cold, (which happens) and in the event that he does……will he still provide for his child remains TOP PRIORITY!

As far as the relationship is concerned that’s totally up to you. Do you want to be in a relationship with him? Not his potential, who he used to be, or who you hope he becomes when the baby gets here, but do you want to be with the man that you know he is right now! Not the apologetic, I know I f’d up, please forgive me, I will do whatever it takes to get in your good graces man either. You know what I mean: the core of, the moral being of, the on most days he's______________ manß Him…… do you want to be with that man? If so stay, just be prepared for a heartbreak! Now please understand, it is possible that you may NEVER experience another heartbreak from this man again; but in the event that you do, you owe it to yourself to be prepared for the "just in case"!

I don’t suggest you going into competition mode. The fact is: your child could potentially have a brother or sister who needs just as much love, support, attention, and care as your child does. This battle solely lies between you and your boyfriend, not baby momma #2 or the possible baby to come. I don’t suggest you waiting until you find out if the kid is his or not before you make a decision. There is no real point in that; his or not his, the principle is the same: HE CHEATED and the possibility still remains the same: HE CHEATS! I do not suggest you making a rash decision because you may regret it. Take some time alone. Spend some time by yourself….you and God are all you need right now. Your family and friends will give you mixed messages, there is no telling what your boyfriend is talking about, and left to yourself your emotions will have you looking the fool, so take a breather.

This situation is tough, I myself was involved in something similar (I was not pregnant, but someone else was) and I tell you it took months for me to really get myself together. I waivered with my decision for a LONG time, toooo LONG now that I look back at it but my main concern was never ME or God’s best for me. It was him, his feelings, what he needed, what he wanted and other stupidity that would have left me feeling far worse if I had chosen to stay as opposed to getting the heck on & being sad for a year or so instead of being miserable for some YEARS or so if I had stayed.

After all you do have a bundle of joy inside you! (THINK ABOUT THAT FOR A MINUTE) focus on that instead of the drama around you. All things will work together for your good if you keep your focus on Christ, your baby, and your well-being! BE ENCOURAGED! 

*All of the question are submitted via FB for KWK Ask Kristen Fridays*

 *All images are from Google*

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Travel Thursday's: Gansevoort: Turks + Caicos

Girls pack your bags we are headed to Turks & Caicos! Listen very intently ladies; when I found this place, Gansevoort Resort, I had YOU in mind! I believe women deserve nothing but thee absolute best, and because of that I took the liberty of deeming this place our very next travel destination. I will have you to know this decision was made before I did my full research.  It becomes clearer to me every Thursday that have a knack for this type of stuff because after all the nuts and bolts of this resort was reviewed I concluded that we'll be landing  on Treasure Island, my friends! Let’s Escape!

 Think of city life meets island when you step foot on the premise of Gansevoort Turks + Caicos. This very chic, beachfront resort sits properly in front of Grace Bay, notably around the Caribbean as one of the best bodies of water EVER!  There are so many packages to choose from and there shouldn't be any wonder why the Girlfriends Getaway Package caught my eye right away! This package encompasses so many amenities for us ladies to enjoy  including: a 50 minute body treatment, VIP poolside area, a Mind & Body Class, breakfast buffet, etc  for a starting rate of $550 for two ladies committed to staying for at least three nights (you might as well stay a forth night because its FREE) topped off with complimentary cocktails..... ladies I think we have ourselves a vacay! They have romantic packages as well for all you love birds out there so Keep Calm there is something for you too!

As far as your room is concerned think high end modern! Each window is guarded by electric, blackout blinds, the bathrooms are stocked with plush towels and robes, wireless internet is at your disposal for (FREE), an iPod docking station is ready for your customized tunes, bring movies for the DVD player and LCD TV, and be refreshed as you relax and escape under the rain shower....if that's not enough there is  much, much, more for you to enjoy. Ladies I am already here, I don’t know about you but  my feet are currently being cooled by the marbleized floors in my suite, take your sandals off…….can you feel it too?

For my foodies they have a restaurant onsite that offers all types of exotic foods like macadamia nut crusted snapper, veal chops, pastas, salads and more all at reasonable prices. Don’t want to be limited resort food you’re in the Caribbean for crying out loud the atmosphere illuminates of exotic cuisine! With night life, shopping, a movie theater and casino minutes from the resort you are in for several treats and a plethora of options both on and off site!

I have already declared this a 2014 vacation destination and I encourage you to check this out for yourself as well ladies. Let’s see what all you need for this fantastic girls getaway or trip for you and the lovah!

http://www.gansevoorthotelgroup.com/hotels/gansevoort-turks-and-caicoshttp://florencebyjk.com/?ref=website

Money= Flight + Hotel accommodations $1600 (during fall & winter months)+ spending cash $500= $2000 (or less) per person for a 6 day, 5 night trip!

Travel Time- The flights is approx. 6 hours with one stop in most flights. So a few downloads will work for the ipod, I’d already have on a sundress, a puzzle book, tablet, and a few snacks as you prepare for your next getaway experience.

Clothing- Minimal (Sundresses, swim suits, and sunscreen)

Company- Your closest gal pal, or your boo thang would be appropriate. Or double even tripling it up by making it a couples trip for a true girls get-away!

Visit the resorts website below:

http://www.gansevoorthotelgroup.com/hotels/gansevoort-turks-and-caicos/

Hope you enjoyed our mini vacay and are soon afforded the opportunity to travel there! Safe travels and best wishes for your life journey!

*All images are from the resorts website*

Loading: Your Pre-Holiday Weekend Plans

Thanksgiving is next week and if your plans aren’t to travel this weekend I have some great suggestions for you!  Single ladies and those who are taken check out my findings to give you some options.

Food

The thought of turkey, greens, & macaroni and cheese really soothes my soul as I highly anticipate the whole soirée that is to take place at my house in nearly a week; but this weekend I want to keep it simple and light as I prepare my appetite for the BIG feast scheduled in just 8 days. So if you, like I, are trying to narrow the chance of gaining those extra holidays pounds, limiting your intake before and after to prohibit that scale from tipping over  is your best option.....and if you just so happen to choose that option, I have the place for you. One of my personal favorites, it has almost been a year since I was there, 5 Seasons Brewing is a great restaurant with a healthy menu. If you don’t like beer, it’s OK that isn’t the only thing they offer.                                      

                                                                       (THE ART OF BEER MAKING, FASCINATING)

With several locations in Atlanta, my favorite is the one located on Marietta St. Downtown. This place has yet to fail me. The food is so fresh and delicious, Oh and let me add healthy too. If it were not for my mom I would have never known was a portobello burger was. If it weren't for 5 Seasons, I would have never known that a Portobello mushroom 'sammich' could taste sooooo good! In addition to their wealth of beer options they also have cocktails, other organic options, and dessert items that are really good and “healthy”, well somewhat lol. Expand your horizon and upgrade your taste buds……5 Seasons is the best place to go if you’re in to mood for a great healthy meal, at a reasonable price! Check the link below for the full menu!

http://www.5seasonsbrewing.com/

Fun & Adventurous

That Kandi Burguss is quite the Renaissance woman and no one is mad at her. She is having a stage play called, A Mother’s Love, this weekend and it seems like a great concept with some pretty familiar faces as cast members. Tickets can be purchased at the Rialto box office or by phone on the flyer listed. The cheapest ticket is $58, as I am not aware of the going rate for play tickets but that seems like a reasonable price to me. I don’t know, but if you want something different to do with your girlfriends, boo, or incoming relatives this weekend this may be an option!

https://tickets.rialtocenter.org/Public/show_events_list.asp

Thrifting is the new thing, so why not enjoy thrifiting and brunch this Sunday?  Sounds like a plan?!?! If so, grab a girlfriend and travel over to Hodgepodge Coffee House this Sunday as several thrifting boutiques join together to host this fantastic shopping event.  RSVP today at www.thrifitingatlanta.com.

Empowerment

In honor of the philanthropic efforts of those who are passionate about keeping men, women, and children warm this Fall and Winter Season a good friend of mine is hosting a Blanket Drive for the homeless this week! If you have any unwanted blankets, sweaters, coats or anything warm you are willing to donate, contact her so you can meet at a central location in ATLANTA to drop off your items! Be a blessing to someone this holiday season!
Email: give4apurpose@gmail.com!

As always I am an advocate for fun and hard work but it all needs to be balanced with some quality time with the Father. I recommend Free Chapel, located in Gainesville, GA however they have a live stream you can enjoy from anywhere. If Free Chapel does not interest you, YouTube some sermons, visit your local church, or tune into a pastor on TV, just make sure you GET IT IN!

http://www.freechapel.org/live/

***All pictures were taken from the event or restaurants page or Google*** 

I Haven't Met His Kids Yet.....Am I In the Running for Future Wifey?

Question: I've been dating this guy for the past 8 months and the relationship is great! He has two children from a previous relationship. I have yet to meet his children who are 6 and 7 years old. I don't have any children myself and I understand people when they say they don't want to introduce their children to somebody too soon because they don't know if that person is going to be in their life for a while or not. But it's been 8 greats months... Does this mean he does not see a place for me in his future? Or do you think it is still too early for me to meet them?

Answer: This is tricky business! There are so many factors to consider with people and their children! Children are very fragile individuals and most mothers and fathers (the good one's) don't want several men and women in and out of their child's life. It really damages the kids when they get attached to someone and out of no where they disappear. Information I'm sure you already know but it doesn't hurt to reemphasize it! Children don't understand "we're just no longer compatible", "irreconcilable differences", or "I found me a new man" and all the other reasons couple separate. It's just not fair to the kids!!

He may really LIKE you but it's just not time for you to meet the kids! He may see you as a member of his future or he may strongly desire you to be but as a man he wants to make sure everything is"safe" as it relates to his kids and their emotions, (isn't that such a turn on)! I think when a man introduces his girlfriend to his children he is really serious about the relationship. He is pretty sure he has a grip on who you are (which God bless his heart he really put in some work.... us women are extremely complex) and he's pretty sure who he is and the direction he's going in as a man, including where he wants this relationship to go as well!

I hate to be negative Nancy but I would be remiss if I didn't urge you to look at things from every perspective. He could really enjoy your company but doesn't really see you as a future deal. He may be at a time in his life where he needs a break, he needs some fun and you have fit the bill perfectly. If this is the case how do you feel about that? DO you really enjoy being around him? Hanging out and having fun? Well don't stress the issue. As time goes on he may start to view your relationship differently and slowly begin to feel comfortable bringing you around his most prized possessions, the kiddos.

One last thing I want you to consider, make sure he's all the way single!! Some men like to straddle the fence to avoid child support threats, to get sexual benefits from their child's mother, and some are simply confused on what they really want so they play house there and Jonn Travolta off Grease with you when they need some Grease Lightning! MEN! So just be careful hunni and don't exhaust all your energies over thinking it, just keep your ears to the street (as one of my dear friends always say)! if you're looking for a good time, with a good man, then you have it! If you're looking for a husband out of this relationship this conversation should definitely take place for clarity's sake; letting his answer be the final answer in which you respond accordingly.

Utilize Intuition......she already spoke!

*All of the question are submitted via FB for KWK Ask Kristen Fridays*

                               *All images are from Google*

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