The Brown List

BGBlog — By browngirlmag on November 29, 2008 at 9:08 am

**Just in time for the cold, Brown Girl has drawn up some must-have’s, must-do’s, and yes-maam’s to heat up your life.**

1. The Good Read. Nothing says “winter” like crawling up with a good book in front of a warm fire. This winter break try Girls of Riyadh by Raaja Alsanea. Originally written in Arabic, this spicy book was banned in Saudi Arabia for its scandalous portrayal of four young upper class women balancing the pressures of tradition and western influences.

The daring debut by a young Saudi Arabian woman- “imagine Sex and the City, if the city in question were Riyadh”
-Time

2. Christmas Karma. In the middle of all that food, shopping, and fun, take a step back and take the time help out your local community. During the month of December, there are tons of volunteer opportunities. Check out the following service project suggestions to see if you can help out in your community!

Toys for Tots
Salvation Army
Adopt A Family
Soup Kitchen

3. Winter Fashion Essentials. Check out our Beauty&Style section for great winter must-have’s.

***Christmas Bonus.*** Sign up for our FREE Newsletter and be the first to know when the next issue is out!

4. Cool Gadgets. This holiday season be sure to add this on your Christmas list! The Nikon COOLPIX S60 is the hottest new digital camera this season. The amazing touch screen allows you to swipe through, zoom into, and rotate your pictures. You can even write on them to give that personal effect! $349.95

5. Feeling a little cold? Our Brown Boy will be sure to warm you up!

6. Gifts Galore. Need a gift idea for your girl pal? Check out the new line of perfumes inspired by the many personalities of the Harajuku girls. With scents called “G”, “Lil Angel”, “Love”, “Music”, and “Baby”, you’ll be sure to find one that’s the perfect match for your friend. $45 at your local Macy’s store.

7. Chai Time. For this winter, try a little twist on the classic chai. Hot Chocolate Chai is easy and delicious!

Boil two cups of water with 4 spoons of sugar.
After the water boils, turn off the stove, and add two tea bags. Cover the pot and let it sit for about 2 minutes.
Put the stove back on medium heat and add one packet of hot chocolate mix and 4 tablespoons of milk.
Add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg. Stir well.
Pour and serve with a dollop of whip cream! (Serves two)

8. Family Lovin’. After all, the holidays are about spending time with your loved ones. Don’t forget to take some extra time out of your busy schedule to relax with the family. Cook a meal, rent a movie the whole family can enjoy, and just let the conversations flow!

9. A New Year, A New You. Have you started your list yet? Get some hints from Brown Girl with 5 steps to A Fabulous New You. Feel free to share your resolutions with other readers as well!

10. Make your Mark. Check out the very affordable, yet very glamorous make up collection from Mark. The mark Pro Lips Kit is only $16 and allows you a wardrobe of lip options. And there’s a ton more beauty and style finds by Mark to make your holiday a little more cheery!