Birthstone Style: The Sophisticated Sapphire

To all the Savvy Sistahs who have birthdays in September your birthstone is the "Sophisticated Sappphire". The sapphire is available in a variety of shades (pink, orange and lavender) however the deep blue shade is the most well known and desired. The word sapphire originated from the Greek word 'Sapphirus" which means blue. When you think of the color blue, you may picture a blue sky or an ocean but the color can also be associated with faith, wisdom, trust and loyalty. The largest sapphire is 563 carats and it's called "The Star of India".  You share your birthday month with Savvy Celebrities like Beyonce, Jennifer Hudson, Anika Noni Rose, Serena Williams and Jada Pinkett-Smith. Take a look at some of these sapphire inspired looks and have a Happy Birthday!

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Savvy Cuisine: Strawberry Shortcake

I love,love,love (did I say love) strawberries and one of my favorite quick deserts is "Strawberry Shortcake". All you will need is three items that you can find at any grocery store. First you need pound cake, (you can buy a loaf or the cake already cut in slices). Next you will need frozen strawberries, (I like these because they have a little sugar added). And the last item you will need is fat free whipped cream, (so you can eat as much as you want).Not only is it quick and easy, but it's inexpensive and a dessert that the whole family can enjoy. It's berry good!

* Strawberries
* Pound Cake
* Whipped Cream

On the Cover: Gabourey Sidibe

Oscar nominated actress Gabourey Sidibe has been chosen as one of Elle Magazines up and coming 25-somethings to watch in Hollywood. This 27 year old actress became an over-night success after her outstanding performance in the movie Precious. After much controversy concerning her weight, many people in the fashion industry (along with Howard Stern) said that she would never be on the cover of a top fashion magazine. We'll all they have to do is pick up the October issue of Elle and they'll see just how wrong they were. Congratulations Gabby! You are so "Precious"!

Birthstone Style: Peridot Pizzazz

If you were born in the month of August, your birthstone is the Peridot. This vibrant stone is the color of a lime with it's origin being connected to volcanic activity. The word Peridot means "gem" in Arabic and it was called "gem of the sun" by Ancient Egyptians. The Peridot signifies individual strength and it promises growth in the near future. This color adds a a hint of pizzazz to anything you wear especially if you choose a dress like Beyonce from the House of Dereon Spring 2010 collection. Take a peek at these other lime flavored looks and have a Happy Birthday in Style!

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Savvy Snack: Healthy Hummus

I have to admit I have really bad eating habits. So I have been on the search for healthier snacks. Over the past few months I have fallen in love with Greek food and if you want to eat something simple, and loaded with protein, potassium, and fiber then you should eat some hummus. Hummus is actually chickpeas or garbanzo beans blended with olive oil, garlic and other spices. You eat it with pita bread or you can serve it as a dip along with carrots and celery. Hummus can be purchased in the deli section of your grocery store or you can just make it yourself.

Here's a basic hummus recipe! Enjoy

Ingredients:
* 1 16 oz can of chickpeas or garbanzo beans
* 1/4 cup liquid from can of chickpeas
* 3-5 tablespoons lemon juice (depending on taste)
* 1 1/2 tablespoons tahini
* 2 cloves garlic, crushed
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 2 tablespoons olive oil

Preparation:
Drain chickpeas and set aside liquid from can. Combine remaining ingredients in blender or food processor. Add 1/4 cup of liquid from chickpeas. Blend for 3-5 minutes on low until thoroughly mixed and smooth.

Place in serving bowl, and create a shallow well in the center of the hummus.
Add a small amount (1-2 tablespoons) of olive oil in the well.
Serve immediately with fresh, warm or toasted pita bread, or cover and refrigerate.

Recipe courtesy of About.com

On the Cover: Halle Berry

Savvy Sistah Halle Berry will be "On the Cover" of the September issue of Vogue. Sometimes it's hard to believe that she's 43 years old, her beauty is truly timeless. Although she has been called one of the most beauty women in the world, she has also had a tumultuous life. Make sure you go pick up the issue on August 24th to find out more about what she feels about being a mother, her career and the failed relationship with her ex, Gabriel Aubury.

On the Cover: Iman, Naomi & Liya

Essence is celebrating 40 fabulous years and they chose Savvy Sistahs Naomi, Iman and Liya to grace the cover. Make sure you pick up the September issue to read about the "40 Fierce and Fabulous Women Who Are Changing the World" and more.



Photo courtesy of Essence

On the Cover: Kimora on Ebony

Kimora, Djimon Hounsou and new baby grace the cover of Ebony for February! She truly looks happy, you can tell that Djimon is good for her and is a good father figure for her girls.

Looking good! Ms. Fabulous