Stephanie Linus Daily

Author: stephanielinusdaily

My Jollof Rice Secret Ingredient

Hmmm…… Good Ol’ Jollof rice!

This is one meal I’m sure lots of people would be eating today. A typical Nigerian party menu is incomplete without this meal. It is easy to prepare, widely accepted and enjoyed by lots of people. It is one meal almost every Nigerian lady knows how to prepare, but as it is with most recipes, different people have different ways they bring out the flavour in their dishes.

Same goes for Jollof Rice. As simple as it looks, you’d be shocked that many people prepare this meal in different ways. For some people, Jollof Rice is never complete without real chicken broth. For other people, fresh tomatoes must be sliced inside the pot when the meal is about getting done.

But for me, my most important Jollof Rice ingredient is…. Bay Leaves! I don’t miss out on this when preparing this meal. It gives a unique aroma and taste to my meal that no other spice can. It also has some great health benefits such as:

1. Bay leaf greatly helps in digestion. It is used as a natural remedy in a wide range of digestive disorders.
2. Bay leaf helps in regulating blood sugar levels.
3. Bay leaf contains the phytonutrients, caffeic acid and rutin, as well as salicylates. These phytonutrients protect the heart and lower the risk of strokes and heart attack.

Don’t forget, its best to use it dry rather than fresh.

So, tell me. What’s your most important ingredient in Jollof Rice? How do you prepare your Jollof Rice that makes it unique?

I’d love to know!

February 28, 2015
11 Major Causes & Risk Factors Of Breast Cancer

One important way to stay healthy is to have the required information to avoid certain diseases.

The high rate of women dying from Breast Cancer in Nigeria yearly is alarming, and today, I’d like us to enlighten ourselves on the risk factors of breast cancer.

While we do not yet know exactly what causes Breast Cancer, we do know that certain risk factors are linked to the disease. A risk factor is something that affects your chance of getting a disease such as cancer. Different cancers have different risk factors. For instance, did you know that the older you get, the higher your chances of getting breast cancer?

I found these causes and risks of breast cancer on NHS.UK and just had to share it here:

Age
The risk of developing breast cancer increases with age. The condition is most common among women over 50 who have been through the menopause. About 8 out of 10 cases of breast cancer occur in women over 50.

Family history
If you have close relatives who have had breast cancer or ovarian cancer, you may have a higher risk of developing breast cancer.

Previous diagnosis of breast cancer
If you’ve previously had breast cancer or early non-invasive cancer cell changes in breast ducts, you have a higher risk of developing it again, either in your other breast or in the same breast again.

Previous benign breast lump
A benign breast lump doesn’t mean you have breast cancer, but certain types of lump may slightly increase your risk of developing it.

Breast density
Women with dense breast tissue may have a higher risk of developing breast cancer because there are more cells that can become cancerous.

Exposure to oestrogen
Your risk of developing breast cancer may rise slightly with the amount of oestrogen your body is exposed to. For example, if you started your periods at a young age and experienced the menopause at a late age, you’ll have been exposed to oestrogen over a longer period of time. In the same way, not having children, or having children later in life, may slightly increase your risk of developing breast cancer because your exposure to oestrogen is uninterrupted by pregnancy.

Being overweight or obese
If you’ve experienced the menopause and are overweight or obese, you may be more at risk of developing breast cancer.

Being tall
If you’re taller than average, you’re more likely to develop breast cancer than someone who’s shorter than average. The reason for this isn’t fully understood, but it may be due to interactions between genes, nutrition and hormones.

Alcohol
Your risk of developing breast cancer can increase with the amount of alcohol you drink.

Radiation
Certain medical procedures that use radiation, such as X-rays and computerised tomography (CT) scans, may slightly increase your risk of developing breast cancer.

Takin Contraceptive pills
Research has shown that women who use oral contraception (the pill) have a slight, but significant, increased risk of developing breast cancer. However, the risk starts to decrease once you stop taking the pill, and your risk of breast cancer is back to normal 10 years after stopping.

So ladies, do you think you fall into the category of any of these risk factors? What steps have you been taking to protect yourself?

Stay healthy ladies!

February 28, 2015
Fun Saturday Quotes That Would Make You Enjoy Your Day

Happy Saturday SL Fabz!

It’s a beautiful morning and I’m in the mood for a relaxing time this weekend. Its been a busy week and I just want to rest.

How about you? Do you feel like any of the quotes below applies to you? Which one reflects the way you feel now?

1. Remembering your fun childhood

2. Just feel like doing something silly

3. Just wanna be lazy

4. Better days are here!

5. This is the definition of sleep… Lol

Photo Credit: Ilikeitfunny.com, Getfunny.net, Quotesandwishes.com, Thefunnyplace.net

February 28, 2015
Every Lady Needs A Little Black Dress

One is never overdressed or underdressed with a little black dress – Karl Lagerfeld

I couldn’t agree more with the quote above. Infact, I’d have to add that it’s a wardrobe staple—a must-have item for any woman who wants to dress her best.

A Little Black Dress is a simple, often quite short dress. It is most times an evening or cocktail dress, and could also be a formal wear. You can never go wrong with a LBD. It could be paired with any gorgeous shoe, complemented with a statement accessory or a brooch to make it pop.

Have you noticed you feel a certain kind of confidence and look really smart in a Little Black Dress? Well I have, and its something I usually reach out for when I need to make a statement and also feel comfortable.

Here are some tips to pick the right Little Black Dress:

1. Know your body shape and pick a style and cut that flatters your shape.
2. Be sure it plays up your feminine side, reflects your personal style and is age appropriate for you.
3. If you can only afford one LBD then choose a classic silhouette
4. Always accessorize your LBD with modern elements, creating multiple looks for day and night.
5. Be sure it fits you perfectly! A tailor can help; they’ll make your LBD ‘magically’ fit!

Wear it often and just have fun with it!

Have a fab weekend.

February 28, 2015
Do You Believe In Love At First Sight?

Guy meets lady or lady meets guy, and after they exchange some glances, say a few words to each other and maybe a light touch, sparks fly. Yes, I know of that and believe that happens.

But falling in love at first sight? Hmm… Not so sure.

I’ve heard people say they saw a lady’s picture and immediately fell in love with her. Or a lady sights a guy for the first time at an event and falls in love with him before even speaking to him.

It is widely believed that love at first sight is not true love, but infatuation. I’ve never fallen in love at first sight because I believe you have to spend time together over a period of time, that you have to know each other before love comes along. But I’ve learnt a lot from this blog that my opinions might be totally different from yours and I’d really love to know what you feel about this topic.

So, do you believe in love at first sight? Have you ever fallen in love at first sight?

Share your stories!

February 27, 2015
What Mentally Strong People Know
We often hear advice like, “Think positive and good things will happen,” or “Try your hardest and eventually things will work out.” This works because most times, your success is directly linked to how you think.

One major fact about successful people is that they manage their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in ways that set them up for success in life.

We can all learn from these mentally strong people and accordingly, we can become mentally strong(er) ourselves. And when we do that we enjoy more success, happiness and less distress.

Mentally strong people do not:
Mentally strong people do:
- They know failure is part of success
- They believe in themselves
- They celebrate the success and happiness of others
- They train their minds to see the good in everything
- They use their fear to motivate action
- They learn from their mistakes
- They take calculated risks
- They are tenacious with their goals
- They are not too proud to learn from others
- They spend quality time alone
So SL Fabz, which side are you on? Have you been doing the things mentally strong people do or don’t?

I encourage us all to join the train and build ourselves up mentally.

I’d like to hear from you. Look through the list. What is the most difficult thing you feel you shouldn’t be doing but can’t help yourself. Or the most difficult thing you feel you should be doing but aren’t. Let’s learn from each other.

This article is inspired by Amy Morin‘s bestselling book, 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do
February 26, 2015
Talk To Steph: Is he too old for me?

I got this email from a reader recently and it mirrors what lots of people are passing through in their relationships. The question of age difference is a serious one affecting lots of relationships.

SL Fabz, read her story below and give some useful advice:

Hello Steph, I turned 23 last year October and before I went home for the holidays (I study abroad) I prayed fervently to God to let meet someone because I have been single for like 3yrs. So I got home and started interning because I was bored of staying at home and on this day after I closed from work, I met this guy who asked to give me a lift. Fast forward to two weeks later, we bonded so well and I was so into him. I think I liked him.

He loves me so much, at least that’s what he said, and told me he wanted something serious with me. I agreed and then he asked what my Genotype was because he always has a problem with that. I wasn’t too sure so I went for a Genotype Test and I was AA which means we were good to go. He was very excited. He introduced me to his Mum, Dad and only sister all within my summer holiday. I met each of them on separate occasions and they were very warm towards me (he’s the only son).

A month after we met, I let him and we made love. I was a virgin and that broke his heart because he wept. Before I was due to leave Nigeria in October, he asked me several times to marry him but I felt it was too soon. We had been together for just 3MONTHS!! He’s everything I have always wanted in a man. He’s catholic, educated, matured, a good Christian from a good home and has a good job. But the thing is I’m 23 and he’s 36!! For some reason I think he is far older than me. What do you guys think. Is 13yrs too much? Should I go ahead and marry him?

SL Fabz, please give her some good advice in dealing with this situation.

*Remember, if you have a challenge in your relationship that you need advice for, please send an email to info@stephaniedaily.com with the subject ‘Talk To Steph’

February 26, 2015
10 Words You’ve Probably Never Heard Of & Their Meanings

I’m in the mood for improving my vocabulary today, and I think it would be more fun if we do this together.

SL Fabz, what do you think? Hop in and learn a few words and their meaning.

Redamancy
The act of loving the one who loves you; a love returned in full

Orenda
A mystery force present in all people that empowers them to affect the world, or to effect change in their own lives

Logolepsy
An obsession with words; being fascinated by words

Eunoia
Beautiful thinkinng; a well mind

Obambulate
Taking a stroll or wandering around

Sapoisexual
One who is attracted to or aroused by intelligence in others

Sillage
The scent that lingers in the air, the trail left in water, the impression made in space after something or someone has been and gone; the trace of someone’s perfume

Clinomania
Excessive desire to stay in bed

Dasypygal
Someone with hairy buttocks

Fatiloquent
Prophetic; speaking of fate

Did you notice how some simple terms have big words to describe them? Hmm, I think I have Logolepsy already!

So, did you learn something new? What is the most recent word you’ve added to your vocabulary?

Try using any of these words to form a sentence and let me see what you come up with.

February 25, 2015
What I Caught On TV: Highlights From The 2015 Oscars

Last night was a historical one in Hollywood as some of the world’s finest actors and contributors to the movie industry were celebrated.

It’s always lovely to see great talents rewarded and I couldn’t help but follow the event keenly.

A big congratulations to everyone who picked up awards and all the nominees too. They are all winners.

British actor Eddie Redmayne won the best actor award for The Theory of Everything, while Julianne Moore picked up best actress for Still Alice. Dark comedy Birdman won best film and best director for Mexican film-maker Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu.

Another highlight of the event was when John Legend and Common brought the house to tears with their rendition of best song winner “Glory,” from the film “Selma.” Images from the Selma-to-Montgomery march and of march leader Martin Luther King, Jr. played out behind them, as a growing chorus joined the stage. By the time the powerful performance was over, the audience was out of their seats applauding and “Selma” lead David Oyelowo had tears streaming down his face. It was indeed memorable to watch.

Watch the video below:

And let’s not forget the fashion! There were some really stunning outfits on the red carpet. But the interesting thing about fashion is that its not only about wearing a great outfit, its also about how you carry yourself in it.

It was really hard to choose but here are my top 5 picks from the red carpet:

Reese Witherspoon

Rosamund Pike

Jennifer Lopez

Emma Stone

Chrissy Teigen

The good thing about awards such as this is that it reminds us that talent can be celebrated. There were some great winners last year, and this year, awesome winners too. Depending on the movie, the production team, the time and other factors, people shine at their own time so its important to give them a chance to become the best they can be.

What do you think about the award winners and the ceremony?

February 23, 2015
How To Become A Leader At Work

Hi SL Fabz,

It’s the start of another work week. I sure hope that you are all set to make it a fulfilling one.

Do you know that with the right attitude and a desire to learn, anyone can become a leader at work?

Being a leader does not necessarily mean you must be the head of the company or the Managing Director. You can still be a leader in your own team. Here are some tips to help you:

1. Communicate Effectively
This means listening is more important than talking. Maintain a strong physical and social presence with your team, as they’ll feel more managed than led if you do not actively spend time with them. This could be by making sure your desk is with them, or just dropping by every now and again to track their progress, but make sure you are consistent. Also, make sure that you are always available to offer your team help.

2. Build Relationships
Engage with people above and beneath you in the occupation hierarchy. As you build relationships with executives, you’ll increase your confidence. Don’t be intimidated by their title or influence. Also relate with people beneath you. They help you understand the company even better. It’s important to see them as equal and to recognize the value and benefit of having them as advocates supporting your career.

3. Take Responsibility
If you want to be a leader at work, learn to take responsibility for anything that has your fingerprint on it. That means, as long as you participate in the project, you have a hand at the failure of the project. Learn to take responsibility for not just the good things, but even bad ones. Admit to your mistakes, it’s okay to be wrong. You cannot learn if you have not made any mistakes.

4. Step Out Of Your Comfort Zone
Sometimes, its good to try out things that make you feel uncomfortable. Take a few risks, do things that you believe in. Don’t be afraid to fail since failure can be one of the best teachers you’ll ever have. Take on a project that no one wants, assume responsibility and prove to your co-workers that you are a great leader.

5. Establish Rules & Follow Them Through
It is essential you establish some form of boundaries with regard to your professional relationships, as well as what you expect from your team, whether it be office courtesy, productivity, or out-of-office conduct. A leader who has a clear directive as to what they expect and what they wish for their team to achieve is much easier to follow and to respect than someone who is unsure as to what they intend to do.

6. Stay Positive
Finally, be positive and offer solutions. You’ll build your own self-confidence and earn the confidence of your superiors if you offer positive solutions to problems.

I hope you have a great week and achieve your dreams!

xoxo

SL

February 23, 2015