With back-to-school season in full swing, we post-collegiate BGs can still get in on the school spirit with cool stationery.

From pretty patterned papers to personalized notecards, skip technology and jot down your thoughts or send sentiments with these super chic journals and stationery sets!

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Congratulations to our fave BG gymnast, Gabby Douglas, on winning the gold medal for the women’s all-around competition at the London Olympics.

The athletic phenom, 16, is not only the first African-American to win the coveted medal, but is a also the first American to win gold medals in both the team competition and all-around (at the same Olympics)! Plus, to celebrate her history-making Olympic triumphs, Kellogg’s Corn Flakes (a U.S Olympic Sponsor) has already placed her photo on its cereal box!

Douglas proves that through determination, hard-work and a good attitude, the sky’s the limit. Hats off to the ground-breaking teenage athlete!

Have you been following the Olympics this year?

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Since I’ve never seen the original Sparkle movie (I know I’m in the minority!), I’m super anxious to see the remake next month. I’m sure many of my fellow BGs are highly anticipating the release of the film starring Jordin Sparks, Tika Sumpter, Carmen Ejogo and the late Whitney Houston too!

Lucky for us, the movie’s official cosmetics partner—Black Opal, is hosting a cool contest in conjunction with the film. One grand prize winner will win a spa day, beauty swag bag, and a private screening of Sparkle for her and 10 of her besties! Plus, 25 finalists will win two movie passes to the film and beauty gift bags.

From now until August 17th, simply click here for your chance to win, well, sparkle!

Pampering, popcorn and primping with your girls? This is a contest you definitely don’t want to miss!

Are you planning on seeing Sparkle when it hits theaters August 17th?

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There’s no denying that dads don’t get as much attention as us moms when it comes to their special day – Father’s Day. Hallmark commercials aren’t exactly flooding the airwaves with sentimental ads nor is there nonstop chatter about the best brunch spots to take dad for his reserved “holiday.” Honestly, I never thought much of the day either until my husband became a father.

The moment I gave birth to our daughter, Ava, I’ve watched him blossom into the absolute best father that any child could ever have. His attentiveness, love, and care for her is simply beautiful to witness. Despite me doing most of the spoiling, Ava is still a true blue daddy’s girl. From play-dates in the park to watching basketball, their bond is special and strong.

Hats off to well-deserving dads like him who exemplify what it truly means to be a father. As my gift this Sunday, I just might let him watch the Miami vs. Oklahoma City game completely uninterrupted. Maybe.

Were you a daddy’s girl? What’s the best advice your father has ever given you?

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If you guys caught any of my tweets from earlier this week, you’d know that I was in my hometown, Chicago. I was back in the Windy City to attend yet another Oprah’s LifeClass taping.

I know, I know, I’m totally Oprah obsessed, but I’m really just trying to get tips on how to “live my best life ever!”

The show featured author Iyanla Vanzant and the topic was about having those tough talks with a loved one. The show hit close to home because who hasn’t had a time in their lives when they were faced with the rather unpleasant task of having a hard conversation? I actually am facing that very scenario with a former close friend.

Whether we confront conflicts head-on or cower away in fear, we have all had those times when we just have to let it all out in order to move on and resolve the problem. But, whatever you do, don’t ever try to resolve a problem via email or any social media platform. Far too often I see people airing their dirty laundry on social media when a conversation over the phone or better yet in person would be the obvious smarter choice. Oprah and Iyanla agree.

That said, I’ll be back next week with more beauty, style, and giveaways. In the meantime, please check me out on Instagram:

 
Are you on Instagram? If so, I’d love to follow you! Leave your handles in the comments. Also, if you have any recommendations, please let me know. Right now, I’m only following 2 ppl! Ha!

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The African proverb, “it takes a village to raise a child,” is an ideology that I’ve always believed to be true. The Brotherhood and Sister Sol organization exemplifies that concept. For nearly 20 years, Bro/Sis has served as a long-term support system for thousands of Black and Latino youth from ages 8 to 22.

Founded in 1995 by Khary Lazarre-White and Jason Warwin, the New York City-based non-profit organization focuses on leadership building and educational advancement through a myriad of enriched, hands-on programs and outreach. From helping students with homework to funding life-changing trips abroad, Bro/Sis has positively impacted many lives.

Last week, Bro/Sis held its 8th Annual VOICES event held at the Frederick P. Hall, Home of Jazz at Lincoln Center honoring and celebrating those who have helped make the organization a success throughout the year.

Hosted by actor Boris Kodjoe, the night was filled with inspiring, soul-stirring speeches by attendees and honorees including: Soledad O’Brien, Ana L. Oliveira, Harry Belafonte, Mayor David Dinkins to name a few.

Although Bro/Sis is based in New York, its leaders have worked with various schools and similar programs throughout the country to help expand its mission. With organizations like Bro/Sis, our villages will be filled with smart, globally-aware, upstanding citizens.

What are some of your favorite outstanding youth serving organizations?

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