CategoriesFood by

Cocktail Recipe: White Russian

Do you sometimes wonder what magic it is that bartenders perform in conjuring those delicious drinks? Well, there’s no magic to it. Cocktails are simply amazing and to rustle up a glass, you sure don’t need a master’s degree.
In need of a refreshing cocktail for a relaxing me time? Or a crowd-pleasing drink to enjoy with friends? Here’s something quick and easy – White Russian!
White Russian

White Russian is an all-time star treat perfect for any occasion or season. This is a variation of the original Black Russian with an addition of cream, hence the name White Russian. Not that it originated from Russian as named, but this tasty pleasure got its name primarily because it’s a vodka based drink.
A favourite vodka drink dating from as far back as the mid-1900s, the White Russian has made its place in history among vodka lovers and ladies especially because of its irresistible look and creamy taste. A sip of this drink and you’re sure to crave for more.
Let’s mix!
Ingredients:
•    10ml vodka
•    10ml coffee liquor
•    20ml cream (low fat milk can be substituted for cream if considering a healthier option)
•    Ice cubes
Direction:
Fill a short-ball glass (old fashioned glass cup) on the rocks. Pour the measure of vodka into the glass, add in the coffee liquor and combine well. Top off with the cream. To get the layered effect, simply pour the milk into the glass over the back of a spoon gently.
***Hint:
Don’t have coffee liquor? Make some!
•    2 Tbsps Sugar (white or brown)
•    1 cup water
•    1 Tbsp instant coffee
•    1 Tbsp Vanilla extract
•    1/4 cup rum
Bring sugar, coffee and water to boil in a pot. Leave to cool for about 30mins then stir in your vanilla extract and rum. Voila! You’ve got yourself some good coffee liquor. Easy, right?
Store in a bottle and leave in a cool dark place for at least 2-3 weeks before use. The longer it stays, the better and stronger it tastes, although it can be utilised earlier!

CategoriesFood by

Fruity Drink Recipe: Planter’S Punch

I love cocktails, and I’m sure you do too!
Combining drinks can be so much fun, and I love mixing things up to suit my cravings to the delight of my guests of course. I’ll be sharing one of my favourite go-to cocktail recipes today. It’s another healthy, flavourful and indeed sweet traditional Caribbean cocktail – Planter’s Punch!
Planter’s Punch

The Caribbeans sure have a thing with punches and exotic drinks. Said to have originated from Jamaica and called Jamaican Rum Punch in earlier times, this cocktail (Planter’s Punch) has several variations to it. However, the catch to an authentic Planter’s Punch is the addition of rum, bitters and fruit juices. Do you know that this drink is an official IBA (International Bartenders Association) cocktail? Cool, right?
Ingredients:

15cl Dark rum
20cl Fresh Orange juice
20cl Fresh Pineapple juice
3 Tbsp Fresh lemon juice
4 Tbsp Grenadine
4 dashes Angostura bitters
Pineapple/orange slices, umbrella and cherry (optional for garnish)
Ice cubes

Servings: 4
Directions:
Pour all ingredients (except the Angostura bitters) into a shaker filled with ice and shake vigorously to combine well. Pour ice into four tall, large glasses and fill with the cocktail mix. Now top up each glass with a dash of Angostura bitters. Garnish with a slice of pineapple (alternatively use orange), cocktail umbrella and cherry. Serve.
Teetotalling? Not to worry, only ditch the rum and you’ve got yourself a non-alcoholic version of Planter’s Punch.
***If having a large number of guests, just increase the measures.
 

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Naija Lunch Recipe: Miyan Kuka Soup

When thinking of a Naija cuisine, the first thing that comes to mind is soup. The reason? Soups are the essential feature of most Nigerian meals.
From the North to the South, to the East and West; across the diverse ethnic regions of Nigeria, there are a thousand and one kinds of soup. And interestingly, each soup is named after the main ingredient used in cooking it.
Miyan Kuka

Miyan Kuka is one of such soups. Traditional to Northern Nigeria, this soup is made from ground baobab (kuka) leaves. Native to the African continent, India and Australia, Baobab trees are extremely versatile and healthful. Often referred to as a tree of life, their nutrient-dense fruits and leaves are considered superfoods. Why? Just one fruit contains six times as much vitamin C in oranges, a double quantity of calcium in milk, and loads of Vitamins A, B, D & E, iron, magnesium, phosphorous, and antioxidants.
Baobab health benefits are massive. Immunity boost, elimination of free radicals to reduce cancer risks and cardiovascular diseases, liver detoxification, anti-inflammation, pain-relief amongst many others is benefits of eating this superfood. The roots and barks are also not left out as they are an integral part of traditional medicine amongst the natives. And the seeds? Brimming with antioxidant vitamins and Omega 3, 6 & 9 essential fatty acids, oil extract from Baobab seeds are used as a soothing, rejuvenating skin care serum and moisturiser.
The leaves of baobab are enjoyed commonly as vegetables. Dried and ground into fine green powder, they are used in making the soup Miyan kuka also known as “luru”, a relish enjoyed mainly in the North. Though often misjudged and shunned by those who don’t know it due to its greenish colour, Miyan kuka is flavorful. The soup is best enjoyed cooked with dried catfish and should be lump-free.
Let’s make some.
Ingredients:

3 Tbsps Baobab leaf powder (Kuka)
Beef (assorted)
Dried Catfish (preferred quantity)
Onions
Fresh locust beans
1 Tbsp ground ginger
3 Scotch bonnets (atarugu/ata rodo)
2 Tbsps Crayfish
1 Cooking spoon palm oil
Salt and seasoning to taste

Method:
Thoroughly wash dried fish and leave to soak in hot water for some minutes. Debone and set aside.
Wash beef, season well and cook. While meat is cooking, blend pepper and dawadawa into a paste. When meat is soft, add a cup of water (quantity of water may vary with the volume of soup). Also add the pepper/iru paste, the ground ginger, crayfish, dried fish and palm oil.
Stir well and taste for salt (adjust with seasoning cubes if needed). Leave to boil some more then remove beef and fish into a bowl and set aside (a necessary procedure for the smooth blending of kuka into the broth).
Turn off the heat and gradually whisk in the kuka powder with a spoon. When you have your desired consistency, pour back the beef/fish into the pot, turn on the heat and cook for 3 minutes.
Your Miyan kuka is ready. Serve with any choice of swallow though best enjoyed with tuwo shinkafa.

CategoriesHealth by

Relaxing Pressure Points For Self-Massage

Stress is an inevitable feature of our ordinary everyday lives and being able to deal with it aptly is quite fundamental. When I feel stressed, the first thing that comes to mind is massage. You know why? Massage does wonders for sore muscles.
The act of rubbing parts of the body is a very efficient old-age healing practice for relaxation. It enhances circulation and improves motion in joints. Massage significantly decreases levels of the stress hormone. However due to time constraint, a visit to the spa for a full body massage often seems more like a fantasy than reality. Have you ever been in a similar situation?
 Massage

Here’s some great news! You can treat yourself to some self-massage. Whether trying to sleep at home, or stuck in traffic or having a rough day at work, there are certain areas in the body known to correspond to the pressure that you can massage to bring an overwhelming feeling of relaxation within minutes. These areas are sensitive and when stimulated, promote relief from pain, tension and stress. Habitually used in massage therapy, this technique is a vital part of Chinese traditional medicine. Love to know these areas? Let’s check out a few easy ones:
Your temple – that flat part of your skull next to your eyes – is easy to reach pressure point. Just apply direct pressure on both sides of your head working in a slow circular motion. Move your fingertips slightly inwards and gently move around your temple toward your brows (sides of your head). The stress gradually fades as you do this. Massaging this point also helps to relieve headaches considerably.
The base where your smallest finger intersects with the crease of your wrist is called Shenmen. Also known as spirit gate or H7, this acupressure point is great for relieving tension. Apply pressure generously for about 60minutes with your thumb on this point. Energy levels will decrease, and you’ll sleep a lot better.
Another useful pressure point that helps with sleep and anxiety is Neiguan (inner gate). To locate it, measure three fingers down from your wrist; right there is this acupoint. Apply firm pressure to this point with your thumb, gently kneading in a circular motion for at least 2 minutes. Try this on both wrists and you’ll feel less tight and anxious almost immediately. It works in relieving nausea too!
Standing all day and feel strained in your feet? There’s a pressure point exactly below the ball of your foot. Sitting with a leg crossed over the other, rest your foot on your knee and firmly press the centre of your foot with your thumb. Ensure to hold on this acupressure point and gently massage for at least 2 minutes until you feel relaxed, rested and amazingly energised.
Looking real convenient, right? When next you need to relax, try these out and enjoy some tranquillity within your body almost instantly.
 

CategoriesHealth by

Three Exercise That Accentuate Your Curves

Currently, there is an increasing number of women who are concerned about their looks. The infatuation of having a rounder and bigger butt has steadily increased over the past few years.
Specifically, many want to know the best butt and body shaping exercises so that they can increase the size of their butt and hips but which won’t affect their waist size. The good news is that some exercises can increase the size of your behind and give your body shape. 
Butt And Hips Shaping Exercises          
 Squats

Squats are one of the best exercises you can do on how to get a bigger butt, thighs and hips. Squats are the top recommended for experts. Squats will concentrate in stimulating the growth of muscles from your butt area. This mainly targets the Gluteus Maximus muscle.
 Aside from increasing the size of your butt, squats will also tone the muscles in your thighs and some in your legs.  To perform squats, what you just need to do is to stand straight and assume the proper posture of the back. Once you are positioned this way, slowly bend your knees without altering the alignment of your spinal cord, then consider standing position again slowly. You can do five repetitions for about three sets. Surely, this will provide firmness on the muscles of your butt.
 Squeezes
Squeezes help you get the desired hourglass figure and can be done in the comfort of your home without any equipment. To perform squeezes, you should press or tight your butt in as tight as you can. Hold it in and then let loose. Keep repeating this exercise for a few minutes. Doing this several times a day will help to strengthen your muscles in the buttocks and firm your butt. Over the time you will have a rounded behind, and this will also make your hips wider.
Dancing

Dancing tones and tightens muscle groups like the hips and waist. Dancing will even help you burn a considerable amount of calories. The dance forms which you can select to incorporate into your daily routine to make hips wider and body shapelier naturally include belly dancing and of course twerking.
Women on the skinny side need to eat a more balanced diet to add more flesh since exercising alone wouldn’t work. Eat healthy fats, protein and carbs. You can even incorporate protein powders into your diets.

CategoriesLifestyle by

8 Budget Tourist Destinations In Nigeria

Ever been on a budget but still wanted to have fun? Do you know you can still have a good time with your friends or family without breaking the bank? All you need to do is just look through these affordable tourist sites in Nigeria and go to the one closest to you. Here are a few of them:
List Of Some Tourist Destinations In Nigeria.
Olumo Rock

Olumo Rock is a popular tourist attraction located in Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State. It is a historic site as it was used as a fortress during a war in the early 19th century. The top of the rock is reached by steps built into the wall or through an elevator, and at the head of the rock is a beautiful view of the city of Abeokuta. There is also a restaurant at the site to buy food and drinks.
Olumirin Waterfalls, Erin Ijesha

Olumirin Waterfalls popularly called Erin Ijesha is a seven-step waterfall located in Osun state. The pool (formed from the fall at each step) and the terrain make it a hit for individuals of all ages. It is a beautiful place to have fun, and there are available spaces for parties and relaxation.
Ikogosi Warm Spring, Ekiti

This is a beautiful natural spring which is attractive as a result of the confluence where the cold spring and the warm spring meet.  The resort has accommodation facilities, a restaurant, a swimming pool and relaxation spots. The Ikogosi warm spring is located in Ekiti State.
National Children’s Park and Zoo, Abuja

 
The National Children’s Park and Zoo are located in Asokoro district, behind the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The Zoo has a lot of animals like Zebra, Tortoise, Ostrich, Crocodile, Monkeys, Donkeys, etc. There are a few playgrounds for children and a cafe which overlooks a pond.
Agodi Gardens, Ibadan

Agodi garden is a recently upgraded tourist attraction in the capital of Oyo state, Ibadan. The Agodi garden houses a water park, picnic lawns, swimming pools, animal enclosures, etc. This is a fun place to take children as there are a lot of kids games and entertainment available. It is also an exquisite place to have a picnic or a party.
Idanre hills, Ondo State

Idanre hills located in Ondo state is a 20-minute drive from the state capital, Akure.  The tourist attraction is also called the hill of 9 wonders, and it is one of the most beautiful landscapes in Nigeria.
University of Ibadan Zoological Garden

The UI Zoo located in the University of Ibadan campus is arguably one of the best zoos in the country. It is home to a variety of animals such as Ostrich, Eagle, Snake, Giraffe, Monkeys and so on. It is a fun place to take your children not only will they have fun they will also learn.
Bar Beach, Lagos

The Bar Beach is probably the most famous beach in Lagos and it is situated at Victoria Island. There are a lot of fun activities available such as horseback riding, football, etc.

CategoriesLifestyle by

What To Look Out For When House Hunting

House hunting but don’t know what to look for or where to start?  Well, it’s expected. Whether seeking to buy or rent, house hunting can be quite exhausting. The endless house tours, sleepless nights, and time taken to consider which is most appropriate can sure take its toll. 
While searching, it’s easy to get carried away and make hasty complicated decisions. To avoid this and to help reduce undue stress, a handful of practical hints have been put together for you.
House Hunting Tips
For starters, there are several factors to consider before you proceed on your search. Do you have a budget? What is the maximum amount you can afford to spend on a house? Where is your preferred location (considering work commute etc.)? What are your needs regarding facilities? Will you require more space over time? How many bedrooms would be appropriate? What style of a building do you want? What are the ideal features you want in a house?
When thinking through all of these factors, your needs and likes should be clearly defined and differentiated. Streamline carefully, set priorities right and you’ll be amazed at how easy drawing up a checklist will be. Do this and you’ve got yourself a well-laid out plan that makes your pursuit comfortable.
Armed with a list of priorities, you may proceed with the aid of an estate agent. Working with agencies can lessen the stress as they are professionals in the business. However, ensure to get a trusted one. Asking friends for recommendations is a step in the right direction. And while you’re at it, try to worm your way into his confidence. It works like magic in earning their respect. And you get to enjoy more information and first preference too!

Keep track of the various houses you visit. Ask to take pictures where possible. Checking out different places can be overwhelming, and there’s the possibility to forget the pros and cons, and several amenities of every house you’ve seen. Keeping track of all of these for appropriate comparison is important.
When on house tours, check out the functionality of the facilities. Take a good look around the rooms and focus on important places like the ceilings, walls, floors, cupboards, windows, roof and under the sinks. Are there costly features that need to be changed? Note them and discuss cost implications.
Seen one you like? Get a feel of the area before you seal the deal (especially if the search was conducted online). Check out the property at different times of the day. If planning a second viewing, visit at a different time of day from your first. Check out the surroundings for hints of vices. Be patient and charming enough to have talks with the neighbours. You’re bound to discover a lot by asking relevant questions.
Still searching? Always remind yourself of your priorities and maintain realistic expectations. Don’t be too timid to criticise or voice any concern you have about a prospective home. It will save you future complications.
All the best!

CategoriesLifestyle by

Best Natural Oils for You

I wake up from time to time to consider my life and what needs fixing. This probably sounds a bit dramatic. I woke up recently bothered about my skin and my receding hairline. You see, I have uneven skin tone, and my hairline prevents me from styling my hair in some very fashionable styles. Apparently no baby hair and edges for me.
I wanted to fix these problems in the most natural way possible. My research into natural oils began and this is what I learnt.
List Of  Natural oils
Argan Oil

Argan oil sounds pretty exotic, but it is more widespread than you may think. I have seen different brands in supermarkets and beauty stores. It is quite affordable too. The precious oil uses pressed argan oil from the Moroccan Argan tree, which contains high levels of vitamin E and other essential fatty acids which soften and strengthen damaged hair.
The oil is very light; just a few drops are needed for long hair and unlike some serums, hair is not weighed down, and there are no undesirable greasy side effects.  
Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is often referred to as “the healthiest oil on earth.” You may have seen those funny pictures that say you can apply coconut oil on anything, well it’s true. You can use it for your hair, skin and even your husband’s beard. Its essential proteins and capric and lauric acids fight wrinkles, and tone and tighten skin while nourishing healthy hair. Coconut oil is literarily everywhere, you can even make it yourself.
Olive Oil

Here’s another use for the excess “Goya oil” in your house. When massaged onto dry skin the silky smooth oil unclogs pores, and sweeps away make-up and impurities, and as it’s an oil based formula your skin won’t feel tight and dry after cleansing. This is the best make up remover in my opinion.
Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is applied to the skin for infections such as acne, fungal infections of the nail, lice, and athlete’s foot. It is also used topically as a local antiseptic for cuts and abrasions, burns, and insect bites and stings. Tea tree oil is particularly good for dandruff.
Almond Oil

The greatest advantage of almond oil for skin care is that it is suitable for all skin types.  It is possible to get this made from scratch but when in doubt just buy some at a store.
The benefits of sweet almond oil for skin care are numerous. It helps soothe skin rashes and irritations, and lightens the dark circles under the eye. It also improves complexion.
 
Which natural oils have you tried? Please share your observations with us.

CategoriesLifestyle by

Cutest Mommy and Me Outfits

When training a child, it is never too early to start inculcating habits you want them to stick with as they grow older. It is important to teach them to dress as they want to be addressed and put their best foot forward as they step out into society.
Who am I kidding? This post is not about training your kids. It is about the pictures that make us go aww on Instagram or Snapchat even Facebook. Okay, all social media.
After seeing all the adorable pictures of North West and Kim Kardashian coordinating, even Blue Ivy and Beyoncé, I cannot wait to have my children and make them into fashion icons.
Are there any rules for mommy and me outfits?
There are no rules for fashion but when dressing children:

Avoid fussy fabrics
No high heels for children
Dress them in weather appropriate clothes
Carry outfit changes for younger children
Avoid seductive outfits for young girls, keep it age appropriate

How to Match
From similar styles to exact mini versions, you are sure to find something that fits your fashion pallet. For summer, there are a wide array of colourful maxi dresses, lace dresses and tank tops. For cooler weather, you can find coordinating and colourful leggings with cute flowy tops that can work with any body type.
Oh, sons are not exempt from mommy and me outfits! The scarves from your Ankara don’t need to go to waste if you have a little boy. Say hello to dashiki tops, Ankara t-shirts, even little accessories like a cute bow tie. You can match footwear with brogues, sandals and sports shoes.
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I would love to see what you come up with.
Have fun.
 

CategoriesLifestyle by

Easy Juice Detox Recipes For Glowing Skin

Ever heard of detoxifying the body with juices and herbs? Do you find it weird or funny when your friend mixes different juices every morning and you don’t bother to ask why? You keep wondering why her skin looks much better than yours even when you spend more on skin care products. The secret is detoxing!
Detoxing with juices is one of the simplest and most beneficial ways of cleansing the body of toxins and feeding it the nutrients it craves.
Juicing and detoxing are more popular than ever – in fact, virtually everyone has tried a juice diet at some point, and it is easy to see why. Juicing can prevent diseases like cancer, make you feel stronger than ever by giving your immune system a boost and even decrease your chances of a heart attack.
Plus, opting for a detox juice recipe is perfect for giving your skin the goodness it needs to stay young and healthy.
Moreover, let’s not forget that as part of a healthy balanced diet, for those who are trying to shed some pounds, juices can help you lose weight too.
How Juicing Helps Reduce Acne and Improve The Skin
Juices are anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, astringent, loaded with vital nutrients and they help build and repair skin collagen and connective tissue, which aids in reducing acne scars and acne scarring.
Some juices may help to balance hormones, while others may contain antibacterial and antibiotic properties. These fluids can also contribute to reducing stress, improving circulation, and speeding up healing.
Recipes For Detox Juices For Acne
These juice blends are easy on the digestive system and gently loosen any build-up that may have occurred while the body was at rest.
Papaya Pineapple Detox Juice

1 medium ripe papaya, peeled, seeded, and sliced
1 small pineapple, peeled, cored, and sliced
1 (1-in.) piece peeled fresh ginger
1 medium kiwi, peeled
1-2 cups of fresh young coconut water (stir in after juicing)
Rinse and mix

 
Apple-Pear-Grape Detox Juice

1 apple
1 ripe pear
A small bunch of green seedless grapes in a juicer
Stir in after juicing

 
Watercress-Lemon-Lime Detox Juice

1 Lemon
1 Lime
1 cup Watercress
2-3 Green Apples
Rinse and mix

 
Carrot-Ginger-Red Pepper Detox Juice

3 carrots
1 medium red pepper
A small chunk of fresh ginger
Rinse and Mix

 
Orange-Carrot-Ginger Juice

1-2 oranges
2 carrots
A small chunk of fresh ginger (about a ½-inch piece)
Rinse and Mix