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GIVEAWAY: Tickets to ‘ANNIE’ at Kings Theatre in Brooklyn!

December 1, 2015

One of the most beloved characters and timeless stories is coming to Kings Theatre in Brooklyn this month—”Annie the Musical!”

The classic tale of the curly-haired orphan is making its debut at the beautiful, newly restored theatre on December 15th. Directed by original lyricist and director Martin Charmin and choreographed by Liza Gennaro, the Tony award-winning production will have a fresh new feel. But, don’t worry—original songs like “Hard Knock Life” and “Tomorrow” still remain as the soundtrack to this sentimental rags-to-riches story.

“Annie” runs through December, 27th. Click here for ticket information and show times.

If you’re in the New York City area this holiday season, this is a show you don’t want to miss. Adults and children alike will enjoy watching this musical live on stage. My daughter is already excited about seeing it. I’m just shocked that she’s already familiar with some of the songs!

**I’m giving away 4 tickets to the opening show on Tuesday, December 15th at 7:30pm. One winner will be randomly selected and notified via email on December 10th. Simply leave a comment below or tweet me telling me what’s your favorite stage play and/or musical. This contest is only open to U.S residents.

What’s your favorite stage play and/or musical?

Category: Arts and Entertainment | 7 Comments

Mizani Launches New True Textures Line

November 19, 2015

Known for being the authority on relaxers, Mizani has now launched an entirely new line for naturals—True Textures!

The L’Oreal-owned brand has done a complete overhaul of its former True Textures line and has upgraded it with products to enhance our curls, coils and waves. The 8-product line includes: Moisture Replenish Shampoo, Moisture Replenish Conditioner, Cream Cleansing Conditioner, Style Refresher Milk, Curl Enhancing Lotion, Curl Define Pudding, Intense Moisture Replenish Treatment, Twist and Coil Jelly. All of the products are infused with natural ingredients such as marula, olive and coconut oils, which provide a balanced level of deeper moisture for creating gorgeous curls.

My ultimate favorite is the Twist and Coil Jelly. The consistency is of course like jelly and the smell is downright divine. It gives hair the hold it needs for optimal definition, without the flakiness or dryness that comes with other brands.

While Mizani is a professional brand, these product are incredibly consumer-friendly. Ever since cutting my hair a couple of months ago, I was hesitant that my former shoulder-length twist-outs would look like a bunch of shrunken crinkles, that has not been the case. I’m loving my short curly Afro and Mizani’s new products have made my transition to short hair so much easier.

From professional hairstylists to bloggers like me, this new line is sure to be a favorite amongst those who love and care for natural hair.

To purchase Mizani’s True Textures visit shopsalon.com.

Have you ever used Mizani? What’s your favorite natural haircare brand?

Category: Beauty, Beauty News, Hair | 1 Comment

STEM-centric ‘Molecules to the MAX!’ DVD Giveaway

November 17, 2015

Like most moms, I want my 5-year-old daughter to grow up knowing that she can be absolutely anything that she wants to be in this world.

That’s why I’m so happy that young children today, especially girls are being exposed to science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) based programs, activities, toys and movies at a far more than the generations before them.

So when I received information about, Giant Screen Film Molecules to the MAX!, a new animated film about science I was excited! The super cute 40-minute movie teaches children about the basic atomic makeup of ordinary items such as snowflakes, pennies and chewing gum. The adorable colorful characters coupled with the brilliant computer animation had my kids glued to their DVD player. It’s so well-written that it holds their attention while educating them at the same time.

The award-winning movie transported me back to middle school when I was fascinated by molecules and all the science-y stuff that little girls oftentimes aren’t encouraged to be interested in.

If you’re looking for ways to get your kids off of their tablets to watch something of substance, this is an excellent choice!

Molecules to the Max! is available here, $20

For those in the Eastern New York and Western New England area, you can catch the movie airing on PBS affiliate WMHT on the following dates/times:

Monday, 11/30 at 7am

Tuesday, 12/1 at 6am

Wednesday, 12/2 at 4pm

Thursday, 12/3 at 11am

Friday, 12/4 8am

**One lucky winner will win a copy of the DVD. Simply leave a comment or tweet me (@browngirlgumbo) telling me what your favorite subject in school was when you were a kid. A winner will be randomly selected and notified via email on 12/1/15. This contest is only open to U.S residents.

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Giveaway, Giveaways, Gumbo Mix, Misc. | 1 Comment

Actor Taye Diggs Releases New Children’s Book “Mixed Me!”

November 17, 2015

Last week I had the opportunity to take the kids to a private reading of actor/author Taye Diggs’ new children’s book, “Mixed Me!”

Hosted by The Moms Network, the event was held at Aeropostale, a popular clothing store in the heart of Times Square. Prior to the reading and meet-and-greet, attendees were encouraged to donate gently used plastic toys to Second Chance Toys for the holidays. We were also treated to cupcakes and light refreshments.

Once the moms and kids were settled in, Taye Diggs and the book’s illustrator Shane W. Evans (also one of Taye’s closest friends) began to read the well-written tale. Inspired by Taye’s son, the book is about a little boy named Mike whose mom is described as being “rich cream and honey” and his dad as “deep brown.” His hue falls somewhere in between, which his parents explains to him as being “mixed just right!”

The story encourages children to be confident and celebrate their physical differences. While the title suggests the story’s about being bi-racial, it’s truly a universal story about embracing and accepting individuality.

Ava and MJ look on as actor/author Taye Diggs and illustrator Shane W. Evans sign copies of their new book, “Mixed Me!”

Shane, the illustrator spoke eloquently about how important it was for him to get the pictures just right. He told the audience that he specifically chose each complexion and every curl meticulously to give credence to children whose hair and skin tone might stand out from the crowd.

Surprisingly, both Ava and MJ sat attentively while the story was being read and seemed to be quite entertained.

Overall, it was a fun afternoon for the kids and me. I plan on reading the book at Ava’s school next month.

“Mixed Me!” by Taye Diggs and illustrated by Shane W. Evans is available here, $13

If you’re a parent to a young child, how do you encourage them to be confident? Please share your thoughts!

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Parenting, Travel & Lifestyle, Wellness | Leave a Comment

Get Zestfully Clean with NEW Fruitboost Shower Gels

November 9, 2015

Being a body wash buff, I’m always on the hunt for the latest and greatest when it comes to cleansing gels.

A few weeks ago, Zest launched Fruitboost—four scent-sational shower gels and I couldn’t be happier. Available in Citrus Splash, Very Berry, Pomegranate Acai Berry and Peach Mango, Each of the fragrances smell heavenly, but my ultimate favorite is the Citrus Splash. A delightful mix of lime, orange a lemon, it’s simply sublime.

Infused with vitamin C and twice the concentration, a little goes a long way. It says that it can last up to 40 showers, but because I tend to use a lot of shower gel, I doubt that it’s going to last beyond half of that. I’ve heard that too much lather isn’t good, but I’m a sucker for an abundance of sudsy bubbles! Each of the shower gels leaves my skin feeling, you guessed it—zestfully clean!

The New York City launch of Zest Fruitboost Shower Gels was befittingly held at Dylan’s Candy Bar. The shower gels are sold exclusively at Walmart, $2.99

Plus, the best part about these body washes is that they’re comparable to those sold in bath and body specialty stores, but at a fraction of the price! The practical upside down design makes it possible to squeeze out the very last drop.

If you’re getting a head start on holiday shopping, these would make great stocking stuffers for all the women on your list.

What’s your favorite shower gel brand or scent?

Category: Beauty, Beauty News, Body Scrubs | Leave a Comment

Coca-Cola & Hello Beautiful Presents: The Kitchen Table with Chef Huda

November 4, 2015

Several weeks ago I had the opportunity to attend a lovely dinner celebrating the launch of Hello Beautiful’s and Coca-Cola’s web series, “The Kitchen Table.”

Hosted by TV personality and former media maven Bevy Smith, the family-style dinner was held at celebrity chef, Marcus Samuelsson’s popular Red Rooster/Ginny’s Supper Club in Harlem.

The eclectic restaurant was the perfect setting to kick-off the food-centric web series, starring “Cut-throat Kitchen” winner Chef Huda, and actresses Tisha Campbell-Martin and Holly Robinson-Peete.

Source: Property of iOne Studios

Throughout the 4-part web series, the women share stories and laughter, while providing viewers with quick and easy recipes including: Tisha’s macaroni-and-cheese cupcakes, Chef Huda’s mini pizzas and Holly’s chicken ‘wangs.’

The final video features Brooklyn-based artist, Sylvia Mair, who was chosen to immortalize the series with one of her alluring paintings. She speaks about how her mother inspired her artwork and the influence Coca-Cola had on her childhood.

Source: Property of iOne Studios

Now with Thanksgiving around the corner, it’s the perfect time to try Tisha’s mac-and-cheese! Click here for the full recipe.

Have you checked out this web series?

Category: Gumbo Mix, Misc. | Leave a Comment

Stay Fresh & Dry with Dove

November 3, 2015

If you’ve been reading my blog for a while, you know how much I love all things Dove. Well, the brand’s Beauty Finish Dry Spray antiperspirant deodorant is no different.

I’ve always used roll-on or stick antiperspirants, but had never given sprays a try. Boy, have I been missing out! It’s so easy to use and it smells so good! Typically, deodorant scents start to bother me after a while, but surprisingly the fruity & floral fragrance doesn’t aggravate me at all. It keeps me dry and works up to 48 hours. Since I shower daily and sometimes twice a day, I haven’t been able to find out if that selling point rings true. But, I’m sure it does because Dove always exceeds expectations.

Dove Beauty Finish Dry Spray available here, $5.49

Also, since I suffer from extremely sensitive skin (especially my underarms) this spray doesn’t irritate me at all. Again, that’s because Dove formulates their products with those with sensitive skin in mind. Plus, did I mention how it goes on dry and doesn’t create that unpleasant residue? One day I was in such a rush that I threw on a gray top and got a bit of the spray on it. Within seconds it was completely dry and no trace of it was in sight!

If you want to stay dry and smelling fresh all day long, give Dove’s Beauty Finish Dry Spray a go. Be prepared to never go back to sticks or roll-ons!

What’s your favorite antiperspirant/deodorant?

Category: Beauty, Beauty News, Health | Leave a Comment

Post Halloween Candy Tips for Parents

November 2, 2015

My family and I had a fantastic Halloween! The fact that MJ was old enough to partake in the festivities made for a frightfully fun night out.

Ava was a wicked witch, while MJ was Alvin from “Alvin & the Chipmunks,” my favorite cartoon of all time. The weather was perfect so they had a blast trick-or-treating up and down the blocks for about two hours. Their pumpkin-shaped buckets were filled to the brim with sweet treats. From mini chocolate bars to fun size gummy bears, they scored TONS of candy!

On Halloween night I allowed them to pick three pieces of candy of their choosing, which was fine. But now, they’re asking for it every day! As parents, we know that they can’t consume too many sugary goodies on a daily basis. But, if you do let them indulge, at least know the healthier options.

I made MJ’s costume by putting yellow tape on a red turtleneck and cap. Oh, and Ava’s wearing one of my dresses!

So, here are a few tricks that I’ve learned throughout the years to get through the post-Halloween treats:

*Choose chocolate – If you’re going to give your child candy, opt for chocolate instead. Super chewy and gummy candies get stuck in teeth and are cavity culprits.

*Avoid sour candies – The acidity of sour candies can eat away at teeth’s enamel, causing painful sensitivity and of course cavities.

*Set Boundaries – Limit their treats to the weekends. Let your little one know that too much sugar on a daily basis can wreak havoc on their overall health.

*Out of Sight, Out of Mind – After Halloween, put the candy away in a high cabinet or tuck it away in a pantry. If they don’t see the candy, they will soon forget about it.

Did your little ones go trick-or-treating this year?

Category: Parenting, Travel & Lifestyle, Wellness | Leave a Comment

Event Recap: L’il Critters Fun Day at Central Park Zoo

October 14, 2015

Last week my children were surprised to a impromptu visit to Central Park Zoo.

Of course, as we moms know, things are hardly ever impromptu when involving kids. So, I knew well in advance that we had been invited to a day of fun all courtesy of L’il Critters vitamins—America’s #1 Kid Vitamin Brand.

Since L’il Critters is all about promoting healthy lifestyles for kids and families, it was befitting to have the afternoon start off with a nice warm-up routine. The activity reinforced the importance of physical activity by encouraging those in attendance to get moving with the help of the L’il Critters mascot! Who doesn’t love exercising with a larger-than-life bear? Needless to say, the kids enjoyed it.

A few of the L’il Critters vitamins that were on display throughout the event space.

Ava showing off her push-up skills during the exercise portion of the event.

Ava and the other kids giving the L’il Critters mascot high-fives.

Ava enjoying lunch before taking a peek at Steve Ettinger’s book, “Wallie Exercises.”

After the workout, the kids worked up an appetite and were presented with various healthy lunch options. Ava and MJ hardly ate anything because they were just so excited to be in the presence of the L’il Critters bear. After lunch it was time to see some animals! Unlike regular trips to the zoo, the children were led by a zoo tour guide who provided them with a wealth of information about all of the animals were saw. From penguins to grizzly bears, the zoo has plenty of attractions that will educate and entertain kids of all ages.

Once the zoo tour was over, we went back to the tent and took more pictures with the L’il Critters mascot and learned more about the brand and what their vitamins offer. Did you know that all of their vitamins are gluten-free? My kids love them and it’s always their highlight after breakfast.

Oh, if you love gummies like me, they have a line of gummy vitamins for adults under their VitaFusion division. Trust me, they’re delicious and nutritious! I like to use the Hair, Skin and Nails multivitamin since I’m still on a quest to restoring my hair’s former luster prior to having children. Plus, I could always use a clearer complexion and these seem to be helping me achieve an even skin-tone.

VitaFusion Hair, Skin & Nails Multivitamin available here, $14.50

Check out these lifestyle tips to keep your child active and healthy:

* Shop together. Give kids a small budget and let them pick out a new veggie or fruit they want to try as part of their meal.

*Involve kids in meal prep, whether it’s setting the table, cracking the eggs or making a grocery list. Kids who participate in cooking are more likely to eat better and are more willing to try new foods. Praise them for their efforts.

*Make the focus about each other – designate the dinner table a “no screen zone” by turning off the TV and leaving the phones and tablets in another room.

Does your family take multivitamins? How do you keep your kids active?

Category: Parenting, Travel & Lifestyle, Uncategorized, Wellness | Leave a Comment

Pharrell Williams’ New Book Will Make Children Very ‘Happy!’

October 8, 2015

For all of the children around the world who sang along with and danced to Pharrell Williams’ hit song, “Happy!,” they’re in for a real treat.

The Grammy-award winning musician has turned his popular tune into a beautiful, full color book that children and adults alike will love. Packed with undeniable energy, the book’s catchy lyrics at times seem as if they could dance right off the page! We all know that the lyrics are entertaining and upbeat, but the adorable photographs of the children really bring the song to life. For example, the line “Clap along if you feel like a room without a roof,” is illustrated with a little boy sitting in a makeshift house with the roof blowing off above his head—so adorable.

Pharrell Williams | Photo by Mimi Valdes

While the the book is fun, Pharrell’s purpose for turning the song into a book is to promote literacy. “I’m committed to encouraging child literacy and this project is the perfect vehicle to accomplish that goal,” Pharrell says in a release. “The “Happy” lyrics and pictures are an opportunity to inspire kids to read and promote imagination.

When I received my review copy in the mail, my daughter was BEYOND excited! Like many children across the country, it is one of her favorite songs. Her elation was catapulted when she saw the bright, eye-catching cover. We read (and couldn’t help but sing too) and danced at the same time. This book personifies joy and I can’t wait to read it to my daughter’s kindergarten class next month.

Hats off to Pharrell for breathing new life into such an amazing and beautifully written song. We all need a bit of happiness.