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Smart Buy: Cambiami Customizable Sandals

July 17, 2014

When it comes to getting more bang for your buck, I’m always onboard.

And that’s the case with Cambiami, a new customizable sandal line that launched last month.

Italian for “change me,” Cambiami sandals make it easy to do just that. With the quick switch of a strap, these chic sandals can instantly be transformed into a style that suits your taste.

Offering over 24 colors and patterns, these innovative sandals make it possible to have a variety of looks without breaking the bank.

Cambiami sandals are available here, $85 (gets you one base/sole & two “uppers”). Each additional pair of “uppers” are $25 and additional base/soles are $40.

Plus, they simplify packing for those fun summer getaways. No more over-stuffing your suitcase with loads of sandals; simply toss in a few interchangeable straps dubbed “uppers,” and you’re good to go!

Each pair (black or tan soles) comes with two “uppers” of your choice and are super easy to insert. Typically, when you get a two-for-one kind of shoe, it’s clunky or uncomfortable, but not with this line.

Cambiami sandals (pictured in black genuine leather) are available here, $85

Versatility, comfort and affordability make these sandals a must-have for summer shoe lovers!

Would you purchase a customizable sandal?

Category: Fashion, Style | 1 Comment

(Sponsored): BGG Attends Blogging While Brown Conference + AT&T ‘Inspired Mobility’ iPad Mini GIVEAWAY!

July 15, 2014

A couple of weeks ago, I had the opportunity to attend my very first Blogging While Brown conference.

Thanks to AT&T, who sponsored my attendance, I was able to convene with fellow bloggers at the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture in Harlem. Since I’ve been blogging consistently since 2007, I’m not sure why I had never gone to the conference prior to this year. But, as the saying goes, “better late than never!”

Throughout the two-day event there were various sessions customized to address the needs of us African-American bloggers. From learning how to earn six figures as a professional blogger to the importance of building relationships with like-minded bloggers, I sat in on several informative sessions. Surprisingly, a couple of the seminars were quite interactive, which helped facilitate networking. I’m always a bit shy when introducing myself, so I felt that having attendees talk and work together was an excellent idea on behalf of the organizers. I even got the opportunity to meet media personality, Jacque Reid, whose career I’ve admired since her days at BET.

Jacque Reid and I at the Blogging While Brown Conference in NYC on Saturday, June 28, 2014.

While I enjoyed hearing about effective tactics on building traffic, ways to monetize my blog, as well as how to get invited to speak at conferences, I was mostly anticipating AT&T’s panel discussion on “Inspired Mobility“—a national conversation about the cultural shift in how people use mobile and Internet technology to enhance their faith experience.

As a blogging partner with the popular telecommunications company, I knew about the “ministry meets mobile” initiative, but was excited to hear their team share it publicly at the conference. Plus, I wanted to learn about the findings from the survey that AT&T conducted in collaboration with Ebony magazine on this subject. Prior to being approached by AT&T for this campaign, I honestly had never thought about how faith and mobile technology could be merged.

AT&T U.S. Diversity Corporate Communications Executive L. Michelle Smith, Technology and Social Media Director, T.D. Jakes Ministries/ AT&T consultant Jason Caston, Digital and Social Media Expert Tiffani Robinson, and Ministry Multimedia Expert Chip Dizard led the engaging discussion. They talked about how using mobile technology apps such as Twitter are a great way to share the spiritual and faith-based conversation beyond places of worship. In fact, Robinson stated that using these easy online tools could ultimately reach a generation that would probably not hear certain scriptures and inspiring words outside of social media. According to Caston, “We’re witnessing a cultural shift. Mobility allows churches to expand their reach and connect with more people.”

Pictured L to R: L. Michelle Smith, Tiffani Robinson, Chip Dizard and Jason Caston during the AT&T “Inspired Mobility” panel discussion during the Blogging While Brown conference on Saturday, June 28, 2014 in New York City.

After the discussion from the experts, the floor was open for questions from the Blogging While Brown audience. The conversation got interesting with inquiries such as the appropriate ways to use social media while in church. Caston provided a few tips during the panel discussion and he also has compiled a list of guidelines here.

Throughout the conference I interviewed a few people and asked them their opinions about the church using mobile technology. Not surprisingly, I found that all of them embraced the concept. No one really feels like using iPads and cell phones during church is taboo anymore.

Check out the clips below:

Sarah, the founder of the Colorism Healing blog, shares her thoughts on bridging the gap between mobile technology and the church during the Blogging While Brown conference.

Blogging While Brown attendee, Leah of Washington, D.C., shares her thoughts on bridging the gap between mobile technology and the church.

Blogging While Brown attendee, Nancy of Brooklyn, shares her thoughts on bridging the gap between mobile technology and the church.

Overall, it was a wonderful weekend full of learning, networking and being a part of a special initiative. Thanks again to AT&T for giving me the opportunity to attend the conference and be a part of the “Inspired Mobility” campaign.

*Disclosure: I received an iPad Mini and other accessories from AT&T.

UPDATE: Winner Announced!! Congratulations, Netta! You’re the winner of the iPad Mini Giveaway! Please send me your mailing address for shipment. Thanks to EVERYONE who participated and left a comment. Be sure to check out BGG daily for more giveaway opportunities!

**GIVEAWAY: In celebration of AT&T’s “Inspired Mobility” campaign, I’m giving away a Gift Pack which includes: (1) iPad Mini and AT& T accessories. Simply leave a comment telling me your thoughts on using mobile technology at church. Do you use Twitter, Facebook or Instagram during service? One lucky reader will be randomly selected and announced Tuesday, August 5th. This giveaway is only open to U.S residents.

Category: Gadgets, Giveaway, Giveaways, Gumbo Mix | 32 Comments

Must See TV (Kids): Sprout Channel to Launch Original Animated Series ‘Astroblast!’

July 10, 2014

Being a parent of two children under the age of 5, I’m pretty familiar with Sprout. If you’re not, it’s a 24-hour cable TV channel that caters to the toddler and preschool set.

This Saturday, July 12th, the 9 year old NBC-owned network is premiering its original animated series, “Astroblast!”

“Astroblast!” premieres Saturday, July 12 at 1pm & 8pm EST on Sprout. The series will continue airing daily during “The Sunny Side Up Show” and “The Good Night Show.”

Co-produced by the children’s book publishing powerhouse, Scholastic Media, “Astroblast!” aims to entertain while educating kids. With a cast of animal characters, the series imparts important messages about how to embrace differences, model positive relationships and foster healthy eating habits all while taking viewers on exciting adventures in outer space.

My daughter has been anticipating the launch of the space-themed show for weeks. That’s why I was beyond thrilled when we were invited to attend a sneak peek of the series at the super cute restaurant, The Sugar Factory here in New York.

I was happy that Ava would get to see some of the show before its debut and I was excited to finally visit The Sugar Factory. For those who are familiar with my blog know that I am candy obsessed; so a trip to the sweets-centric hotspot was like a little slice of heaven for me.

We watched a snippet of the show as we noshed on fried mac-n-cheese balls, mini burgers, chicken fingers, french fries and other yummy kid-friendly fare. Plus, there were fruit smoothies specially made as a nod to one of the ongoing themes of the show. And, of course there were sweet treats galore. From an ice cream sundae bar with every topping imaginable to chocolate fondue to unlimited candies of all kinds, The Sugar Factory definitely lived up to its name.

If your kids are into fun-loving space creatures, “Astroblast!” is a must-see. Oh, and if you’re looking for a restaurant to take your kids on a weekend afternoon or maybe a sweet date night with your guy, The Sugar Factory is a great choice.

In addition, to celebrate the series’ launch, there will be “Astroblast! Space Camp Tour.” Free and open to the public, the tour will offer kids and families the opportunity to participate in an exciting interactive space experience complete with activities and games in the spirit of the series.

Here are the remaining tour dates:

Denver, CO on Saturday, July 12
Phoenix, AZ on Saturday, July 19
Los Angeles, CA on Saturday, July 26 and Sunday, July 27
San Diego, CA on Saturday, August 2

For more information visit: www.sproutonline.com.

Don’t forget to tune in Saturday. We’ll be watching!

Do your children watch the Sprout network? What was your favorite cartoon growing up?

Category: Gumbo Mix, Health, Parenting, Travel & Lifestyle, Wellness | 2 Comments

Nail It: 6 Pretty Blue Polishes Perfect for Summer

July 9, 2014

I don’t know about you, but I’m in desperate need of a vacay.

Until I can take off to some exotic locale or settle for a beach somewhere stateside, I’m going to bring the ocean to my fingertips.

Soft baby blues and bright aqua-hued nail polishes are all the rage this summer. Forget about the over-the-top nail art from last year and embrace a more simple and chic look with water-inspired picks.

Whether you opt for a mani or pedi bearing the seascape shade, it’s safe to say that blue will boost your cool factor this season.

Check out a few of these blue-tiful buys below:

Forever 21 “Candy Blue” Nail Polish available here, $2.80

Essie “Truth or Flare” Nail Polish available here, $8.50

Mischo “Jackie” Nail Polish is currently sold out, but check out the site to see when it will be restocked, $18

Lauren B. “Malibu Beach” Nail Polish available here, $18

Deborah Lippann “Blue Orchid” available here, $18

Milani Neon “Dude Blue” Nail Polish available here, $4.49

What’s your go-to nail polish shade for summer?

Category: Beauty | Leave a Comment

7 Tips on How To Avoid Identity Theft

July 7, 2014

With the Fourth of July holiday behind us, it’s back to business as usual.

If you were out of town celebrating America’s birthday, hopefully you didn’t share a play-by-play of your whereabouts on social media. If so, you could’ve put yourself at risk of being burglarized or quite possibly becoming a victim of identity theft. Sharing too much personal information online is exactly what thieves thrive on thanks to the conveniences of modern technology and social media.

A snapshot from the LifeLock luncheon held at the iconic New York City restaurant, Tavern on the Green on June 26, 2014.

I recently attended a luncheon hosted by LifeLock, an identity and credit protection service, and learned that there are four groups who are even more at risk than the average American.

According to research, individuals who are embarking on a new phase of life are more susceptible to experiencing identity theft. The results indicate that newlyweds, new parents, newly single and new homeowners are all more prone to becoming victims. In fact, newlyweds are 8 times more likely than the average population to fall victim simply due to insurance updates, name changes, and other miscellaneous paperwork.

For many of us, we will fall into one of these aforementioned categories at some point in our lives. In fact, a couple of years ago my credit card had been used without my authorization. That’s why it’s imperative that we protect ourselves from potential identity theft and online scams. Investing in a service like LifeLock is a smart and effective option. It can safeguard you from having to bear the legal costs of sorting out your life after financial disaster and credit score chaos as a result of identity fraud. As preventative measures it will provide the following: monitor your identity, scan for identity threats and track your credit score.

But, even without credit and identity protection services, there are simple steps that you can take to help keep your identity safe while still enjoying social media and other technological advances.

Check out a few tips below:

* Take identity theft risk seriously—so many don’t believe that it will affect their lives. In fact, 1 out of every 4 adults have their identity stolen.

* Forego a few conveniences such as using the auto-login feature on sites.

* Order your credit report annually.

* Never save private information on a public computer.

* Before you dispose of a mobile device, make sure you delete information permanently.

* Don’t overshare on social networking sites.

* Before you send personal information over your laptop or smartphone on a public wireless network in a coffee shop, library, airport, hotel, or other public place, see if your information will be protected.

For more information on how to protect your identity or what to do if you do become a victim of fraud check out www.consumer.ftc.gov.

Have you ever been a victim of identity theft?

Category: Gumbo Mix, Misc. | Leave a Comment

MyMediMates: A Cool Way to Safeguard Kids Who Suffer from Food Allergies

July 1, 2014

There are nearly 6 million young children in the United States living with food allergies.

Unfortunately, my daughter is one of them. She suffers from soy, egg and peanut allergies. It breaks my heart that she’s never had the pleasure of eating one of my special mug-made omelets or indulging in a chocolate cake on her birthday. While I know that she can’t have those things amongst other foods, many will not always be aware.

Now that she’s starting preschool soon and participating in more social activities outside of the home, I have to ensure that individuals are alerted of her potentially life-threatening allergies. That’s why MyMediMates’ wristbands are a must for moms and parents like me.

MyMediMates are available here, $7

Founded by a mom, these brightly colored, adjustable wristbands serve as a creative and effective safeguard against accidental food consumption or any other health related issues including: diabetes, autism, asthma, etc.. Plus, the cartoon characters found on each band make it fun for kids to wear.

If your child suffers from any kind of food allergy or health issue and spends time at daycare, camp, school or even attends sleepovers, these wristbands are a smart buy!

Does your child suffer from a food allergy?

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

National HIV Testing Day: Dr. Rachael Ross Speaks On Its Importance

June 27, 2014

A few weeks ago I teamed up with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to bring you guys an up close and personal look at HIV by sharing the stories of two brave women living with the disease. Now it’s time for all of us to do our part and take action against new infections by getting tested.

In case you didn’t know, today (Friday, June 27th) is National HIV Testing Day. What better day than the present to know your status? Especially, when statistics show that we BGs are disproportionately affected by the disease. OraQuick Advance, the first FDA-approved in-home oral rapid HIV test, makes it simple and easy to find out where you stand. In fact, you can get results in as little as 20 minutes.

OraQuick is available at drugstores nationwide, $39.99

Famed physician Dr. Rachael Ross (co-host of “The Doctors”) has joined forces with OraQuick to help spread the message about the importance of getting tested. I recently spoke with Dr. Ross, who is also an author and sexologist about her partnership, startling facts and advice for those who may receive a positive diagnosis.

Photo via: TVrage.com

Check out some of the highlights from our chat:

BGG: There are many opportunities to help raise HIV awareness, why did you want to partner with OraQuick?

Dr. Rachael Ross: OraQuick is the only advance that I can 100% put myself behind. I’ve been an HIV advocate since college. So, to be able to do it now as a practicing physician and media personality is huge. If I can encourage one or two people to go out and get tested, I’m preventing. I’m preventing them from passing it on to the next person and I’m also preventing them from having a shortened life span (because they won’t be taking the proper medications). I’m also doing prevention because they may even tell their family and friends. Anytime I can use my platform to talk about HIV prevention, which is at the core of my heart, I’m on it.

BGG: Is OraQuick just as effective as someone being tested in a clinic/doctor’s office?

Dr. Ross: Nine times out of ten, if you ask for a rapid test at a clinic they’re going to give you the same one that would be found at the store. The only difference is that it may be packaged differently for at-home consumption. For example, there might be a 800-number if you have questions. OraQuick is 99% accurate and allows you to do the testing in the comfort of your home. However, with any type of rapid testing, it takes 3-6 months for the test to show positivity. So, if you contracted HIV last week, the test is not going to let you know that. That’s the case with all rapid tests, whether it’s at the clinic or at home. I encourage anyone who thinks they may as though they may have contracted HIV within the past few weeks; they’re going to have to get a blood test to get that information.

BGG: What do you think is the most important thing we can do to help reverse the stigma attached to HIV?

Dr.Ross: I’m not sure there’s a stigma. I think what needs to happen is that people need to understand that there are currently 1.1 million living with the virus in the United States and many of them don’t know it. Also, African-Americans are 8 times more likely to contract the virus than anyone else in this country. HIV is so preventable and it’s running rampant in our community. Half of HIV infections are concentrated in the South where we are, as well as our HBCUs (historically black colleges and universities).

NOTE: HIV testing is especially important in the African American community, where HIV incidences are growing. Unless the course of the epidemic changes, at some point in their lifetime, an estimated 1 in 16 black men and 1 in 32 black women will be diagnosed with HIV.

BGG: Why do you think it is that we don’t hear much about HIV-related cases as much as we did in the ’80s and ’90s?

Dr. Ross: HIV used to be a death sentence, but it’s now considered a chronic illness. Since we’ve gotten away from 20-somethings dying, we’ve moved to this thing that we can’t see. HIV is now easy to manage and you don’t really have to tell people that you have it. You can take your medication and vitamins and people won’t know. Also, because it predominately affects African-Americans. When you have illnesses that predominately affect minorities, it’s not on the minds of the majority. Therefore, it’s not going to be something that we talk about regularly.

BGG: What advice would you give to someone who has just received a positive HIV diagnosis?

Dr. Ross: First, recognize that it is not the end of the world and that life continues to go on. Second, get a support system together. In most cases that’s going to be your family; be careful with your friends because friends gossip. Third, get a really good infectious disease doctor. You can’t go to your primary care doctor because you need someone who specializes in HIV care. Also, plan for your future. If you do become positive, remember that it is illegal in many states to have unprotected sex with someone without informing them about your status. Your whole life changes so you have to be protective of yourself and those around you. Knowing and getting on medication is the best thing you can do for yourself.

For more information on HIV prevention, testing, facts, etc, please visit www.cdc.gov/hiv/

Will you get tested today in honor of National HIV Testing Day?

Category: Interviews, Wellness | Leave a Comment

Church 2.0: Spirituality, Social Media and Mobile Technology

June 25, 2014

Like many little brown girls growing up on the Southside of Chicago, I was raised in the church. While my family and I didn’t go every single Sunday, we went enough for me to remember it vividly.

I recall being bored and passing the time by counting down the minutes until the service was over. Now that I’m an adult with an attention span that can withstand a lengthy sermon, I actually enjoy going to church.

The beautiful exterior of a Baptist church in my Park Slope (Brooklyn) neighborhood.

Church is no longer that boring, hours-long event I recall enduring as a child. It’s now an energetic, interactive spiritual soul fest! Thanks to technology, many places of worship are making it easier for its members to receive and partake in the ministry.

For example, gone are the days of not knowing a song and sheepishly humming along (I was guilty of that many Sundays). Now, many churches have song lyrics conveniently displayed on projector screens for the entire congregation to see and sing in unison. And, the technological advances don’t end there. In recent years, it’s not uncommon for large mega-churches to use social media and mobile technology as an extension of the service, but the education is still needed for smaller congregations.

“As we move toward a more digital age, I noticed that smaller and medium size churches just weren’t catching on and needed education on these technological solutions,” says Jason Caston, the Digital Platforms and Innovations Specialist at the Potter’s House/T.D. Jakes Ministries, and the creator of the iChurch Method.

In many cases, it’s not just the lack of education that’s hindering churches’ social media and mobile prowess, but the manpower. “There’s a lack of staff. There’s just not enough staff to work with social media, mobile, different technology, so they do what they can,” suggests Caston.

Since research suggests that we BGs and guys use micro-blogging sites like Twitter more than our counterparts, it’s not hard to understand why some of our churches are starting to embrace mobile and social media outreach. However, not all churches have been as receptive to the concept of implementing mobile technology and social media into their congregations.

“I worked with a large ministry and one of the church leaders thought that my iChurch method of implementing social media, mobile technology, online experience, etc. was trying to replace the church,” recalls Caston.

“There was a huge generational gap and disconnect because they had been doing things their way for 30-40 years. But, I had to explain that technology is there to enhance the church, expand the reach and connect with more people, not replace it.”

As most of us become even more connected to our mobile devices, coupled with our insatiable social media appetite, it’s only logical that our spirituality will reflect that cultural shift. But, let’s just hope that posting selfies from the pulpit won’t get in the way of actual preaching!

Here are four easy ways to incorporate mobile technology into your church’s program:

– Create a hashtag for your church to make it easy for followers to find all scriptures, updates, pictures and other information pertaining to your place of worship.
– To increase engagement, ask questions such as: “What’s your favorite book of the Bible?”
– Tweet stand-out scriptures from sermons.
– Download apps for daily inspiration.

Does your church utilize social media as an extension of the service? How do you use technology to enhance your spiritual life?

Category: Gumbo Mix | 6 Comments

Bridal Bliss: 5 Beauty Must-Haves

June 23, 2014

Now that summer is officially here, that means wedding season is underway!

Whether you’re a bride-to-be or bridesmaid, you’ll want to put your best face forward on that special day. However, due to the stress and anxiety of either saying “I do,” or serving as your BFF’s or sister’s personal bridal assistant, keeping your skin in check leading up to the big day and during the occasion can be a job in of itself.

With the help of a few good beauty products you can ensure that your face will look fab for the bridal album, and of course all those countless wedding day selfies!

Check out these picks to keep you looking picture-perfect:

Pre-nuptial prep

Clarisonic Mia 2 Cleansing Brush available here, $149. This nifty beauty device is a cult fave because its pulsating bristles easily slough away dead skin leaving behind a radiant glow that’s essential for wedding day snapshots.

GLO Solo Teeth Whitening available here, $45.”Say cheese” with ease thanks to this innovative whitening system. Skip the strips and trays and get several shades whiter teeth in as little as two weeks!

RapidLash Eyelash & Eyebrow Enhancing Serum available here, $30. Forgo falsies and bat your lashes with confidence by using this lengthening serum.

Big-Day Beauty

By Terry Cheek to Cheek Water Color Blush available here, $48. You’ll be a blushing bride with this natural cherry-colored flush to the cheeks. And, don’t worry about whether it will suit your skin tone because the versatile shade complements most complexions.

Skindinavia Makeup Finishing Spray Oil Control available here, $29. Keep shiny skin at bay with this oil-absorbing spray for a camera-ready look.

Are you going to be a bride or bridesmaid this summer? If not, are you attending any weddings this season?

Category: Beauty | Leave a Comment

Protect Your Peepers: Contact Lenses that Serve as a Sun Defense

June 18, 2014

Most of us know the importance of using sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses to protect our skin from harmful UV rays. But, I bet you didn’t know that contact lenses can also serve as a barrier for our eyes.

Acuvue Brand Contact Lenses is the only major brand to offer a complete line of UV-blocking lenses. In fact, their OASYS® lenses provide the highest level of protection against 96% of UV-A rays and 99% of UV-B rays that reach the cornea.

Since I currently wear eyeglasses and am looking to make the switch to contact lenses, this is wonderful news! I’m all about protecting all parts of my body from the sun, especially during the summer when my exposure is heightened.

Visit www.acuvue.com for more information

Check out these sun safety tips from NYC-based optometrist Dr. Susan Resnick to help you have a healthy summer:

Wear wraparound sunglasses with UV-blocking lenses
Be wary of cloudy days – you can get just as much UV exposure when it is cloudy, as you can on a bright, clear day
Be cautious around water and snow, as reflections from both can bounce up and into the eye
The sun is most dangerous for the eyes when you least expect it – in the morning and in the evening – when the sun is in direct line with the eye

Do you wear contacts or eyeglasses? How do you protect yourself from UV rays?

Category: Wellness | 1 Comment