Show Off Your Patriotic Side With These Festive Polishes

July 2, 2015

With the Fourth of July only a couple days away, why not celebrate with a patriotic mani? Deck out your digits in festive red, white and blue shades to honor America’s independence.

I’m a bit on the conservative side when it comes to polishes and designs—so rocking a plain white color is probably the extent of my patriotism. But, if you’re feeling a bit more daring, opt for a decorative mix of eye-catching nail art. From flags to fireworks, the options are endless.

Check out these patriotic-inspired polishes to show off at your 4th of July shindig:

mischo-beauty-polish

Mischo Beauty “Billie” Nail Lacquer Set available here, $54

butter-london-sprog

Butter London Nail Lacquer in “Sprog” available here, $15

Flag-nail-decals

American Flag Nail Decals available here, $2 (for a set of 20)

opi-nonstop--white

O.P.I Infinite Shine Lacquer in “Nonstop White” available here, $8

Essie-Leading-Lady

Essie Nail Polish in “Leading Lady” available here, $8.50

jin-soon-cool-blue

JinSoon Nail Polish in “Cool Blue” available here, $18

Do you get creative with your nails or stick to more conservative looks?

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Mom’s Corner: The Benefits of Breastfeeding

July 2, 2015

As a mother, breastfeeding my children was such a special, cherished time in my life.

From the moment they came into the world I offered them what I felt was the best choice—breast milk. Prior to having them, I researched all the facts about breastfeeding. I found that there were just too many benefits for moms and babies to not give it a shot. Luckily, both of my little ones latched on immediately and quite effortlessly. And, frankly it took them a while to finally let go and move on to the next stage.

To be clear, I don’t knock moms who prefer to feed their newborns and infants formula—I simply did what I felt was the most natural and beneficial for my family and me. I nursed both of my children exclusively for the 6 months, which is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. In fact, I continued well past a year.

KBP-breastfeedingMe nursing my son when he was still under a year old (I think).

I know that not every mom has as good of a nursing experience that I’ve had, but I encourage all new and expectant moms to at least give it her best effort.

Breastfeeding-infographic

Every mom is entitled to feeding their babies what they feel is best no matter what. But, in case you or someone you know is thinking about breastfeeding, check out these tips, facts and advantages from the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners and the American Academy of Pediatrics:

*Breastfeeding provides unique health benefits for babies.

*Ask the doctors and nurses to place your baby skin to skin with you immediately after birth (the baby must be healthy and alert) so that you can breastfeed.

*Try not to give the baby a pacifier while breastfeeding is being established (a few weeks to 1 month after birth).

*Mothers who breastfeed recover from childbirth more quickly and easily.

*Breastfeeding also protects the mom’s health.

*Breastfeeding saves money.

*Breastfeeding is also good for the environment, since there are no bottles to wash or formula cans to throw away.

*Breastfeeding takes practice and you may need help. Don’t be discourage if you find it challenging at first, it gets easier.

Did you breastfeed your child(ren)? What was your experience?

Category: Health, Travel & Lifestyle | 3 Comments

Wedding Season: Say ‘I Do’… to Tech

June 30, 2015

It’s official, wedding season is in full swing!

If you or someone you know is planning a wedding, chances are you’re going to do it in style—tech style that is. Sure, beautiful gowns, lovely venues and mouth-watering menus top many brides’ check-lists, but now technological components are also becoming major factors when it comes to planning the perfect wedding celebration.

 

From photo booths to selfie sticks, today’s nuptials are becoming an even more fun, interactive affair. With social media having such a huge impact on so many of our daily lives, it’s only fitting that this cultural phenomenon would also be apart of our wedding ceremonies. Plus, incorporating tech gadgets and encouraging guests to share photos, etc, provides the bride and groom with memorable shots that a traditional photographer might miss. And, of course creating a custom hashtag is a must to group all of your silly and swoon-worthy shots!

My only gripe with the tech trend is that I wish some of these cool innovations and social media existed back when I tied the knot a decade ago! Perhaps, one day time travel will turn that dream into a reality! LOL

In the meantime, check out a couple of gadgets from AT&T that will help you pull off the perfect high-tech wedding day:

 

selfie-stick-att

iStabilizer Monopod Selfie Stick available here, $35

zte-projector

ZTE Spro 2 Smart Projector available here, $399

Have you attended a high-tech wedding this year? What are you thoughts on selfie sticks at weddings?

Category: Gumbo Mix | Leave a Comment

Get the Look: Brandy’s Hair at the 2015 BET Awards

June 29, 2015

Last night’s BET’s Awards was one to remember. From the Bad Boy to the Janet Jackson dance tribute, the night was filled with moving speeches and memorable performances.

But, being the hair and beauty buff that I am, I couldn’t help but notice Brandy’s gorgeous blow-out! Since joining the cast of “The Game,” it seems like the former teen pop star/actress has been more daring with her hairstyles. Perhaps her character, Chardonnay, has inspired her to step outside the box and rock looks beyond the braids that she made famous in the ’90s.

Hair stylist Tymothe Wallace for Motions Hair Care created her eye-catching ‘do. Inspired by Barbie, Wallace put a natural spin on the typically long and straight look. “Brandy is an icon—she can do no wrong! Tonight she wanted to look like Barbie in her metallic party dress so we went for the natural version,” he said. Plus, Wallace gave it an ultra-modern edge so it didn’t look too retro.

I’m a huge fan of celebrities and fashionistas wearing natural and textured hairstyles on the red carpet. Just a few years ago (in the era of relaxers) this would not have been as acceptable or deemed as beautiful as it is today. Kudos to Brandy for embracing this statement-making style!

brandy-betPhoto via Brandy’s Instagram

To get her lovely look, check out the following steps:

How to:

Prep hair with Motions Natural Textures Pre-Wash Detangling Butter to tame hair and reduce breakage. Next, wash hair with Motions Natural Textures Moisturizing Cleanser and Smoothing Conditioner to add moisture and improve manageability. Lock in moisture with Motions Active Moisture Leave-In Detangler to enhance natural texture. Finish with Motions Light Hold Working Spritz for hold and Motions Indulgent Oil Spray for shine

Products Used:

*Motions Natural Textures Pre-Wash Detangling Butter

*Motions Natural Textures Moisturizing Cleanser

*Motions Natural Textures Smoothing Conditioner

*Motions Active Moisture Leave-in Detangler

*Motions Light Hold Working Spritz

*Motions Indulgent Oil Spray

Did you like Brandy’s hair? Whose style did you like the most last night? 

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Beauty, Fashion, Hair | 1 Comment

SPONSORED: BGG Goes to Blogging While Brown On Behalf of AT&T’s ‘Inspired Mobility’ Campaign

June 25, 2015

Last weekend I was honored to have been selected to attend the 8th Annual Blogging While Brown conference in Austin, TX on behalf of AT&T.

I served as a blogger correspondent to help spread the word about their Inspired Mobility campaign—a conversation about how people are using Internet and mobile technology to enhance their inspirational experience. Since I use mobile technology on a daily basis to complement my faith and beliefs, being a part of this initiative was a no-brainer. Many people are now using their phones to stay connected to their spirituality whether that’s through apps, streaming, podcasts or other mobile platforms. In fact, in a recent survey sponsored by AT&T, 4-in-10 (41%) respondents said they use a mobile phone, tablet or laptop to connect to faith-based organizations or inspiration sites.

BGG-BWB

Prior to my trip I was giddy with excitement. I’d never visited Austin so being able to experience a new city is always exciting. Plus, I enjoyed last year’s conference—being around fellow bloggers who look like me is always inspiring. And, not to mention the lineup of speakers was outstanding. However,  all of my anticipation and happiness was completely sucked out of me after learning about the hate-induced church massacre that occurred in Charleston, SC only hours before my departure from NYC. Due to the unfortunate and sensitive circumstances, out of respect for the families and everyone affected by the tragedy—AT&T decided to forgo their big announcement during the opening remarks. Instead, Laura Hernandez, AT&T’s Multi-Cultural Executive Director gave attendees an overview of the campaign and key messages.

Despite the initial somber undertone of the event, the mood slightly shifted and we attendees were eager to get the scoop on how to improve our blogs, etc. Throughout the morning and early afternoon I sat in on sessions about finding your niche and podcasting. The highlight of the day was of course AT&T’s Q&A with Grammy award-winning gospel rapper, Lecrae. Conducted by iChurch Method founder, Jason Caston, the candid conversation was funny, inspiring and relatable. Right before the Q&A started, we were asked to take a moment of silence for the Charleston church massacre. I thought taking that time to honor them was respectful and very appropriate. Once the Q&A was underway, Lecrae spoke about how he uses the Internet and mobile technology to stay connected to his family while touring. “My family is my priority,” he said. “So, staying in touch with them via mobile technology while on the road is important,” he said.

On Day 2, the conference was packed with back-to-back sessions. The day kicked off with the keynote, the super hilarious and wildly successful husband/wife duo—Lamar and Ronnie Tyler of the popular website, Black and Married with Kids. They gave incredibly valuable info on how they turned their blog into a million dollar business. Oftentimes, individuals who reach their level of financial success rarely share how they got there in detail and with actual figures! Their informative and high-energy session set the tone for the rest of the day. Next up, I sat in on Chip Dizard’s vlogging session. Since I’ve been dragging my feet on video blogging, this session was one that I looked forward to attending. It definitely lived up to my expectations because he gave us a comprehensive overview of how with a few simple steps we can take our typical blog into the vlogosphere!

BGG-BWB-2Clockwise from top left: Me and a few of the other AT&T bloggers with Lecrae, Lecrae and Jason Caston, L. Michelle Smith, AT&T’s Diversity & Communications Director; Blogger of the Year winners, Lamar & Ronnie Tyler (Black and Married with Kids) with L. Michelle Smith.

The 2-day conference ended on a high note with the 10th Annual Weblog Awards. Recipients of the esteemed honor included: Black and Married with Kids (who won the Blogger of the Year Award), Black Girls Who Blog and a host of other noteworthy blogs. We networked, ate and danced the night away—fun times indeed.

Oh, and during the downtime in between sessions, I was able to get out and explore the city. Austin is lovely and the people were friendly. Although they’re known for their barbecue, I didn’t have any. But, I did enjoy a couple of fish tacos!

Overall, it was a weekend to remember. It’s always a pleasure to partner with brands and campaigns that encourage growth and innovation. They’re certainly at the forefront of bridging the gap between faith and mobile technology.

*I received travel and hotel accommodations, as well as entry into the conference on behalf of AT&T. All opinions expressed here are my own.  

 

What’s your favorite app for inspirational quotes or spiritual teachings?

Category: Gumbo Mix | Leave a Comment

Pass It On: Disney TV Group Launches ‘Summer of Creativity’ Initiative to Inspire Youths to Make a Difference

June 25, 2015

If you have a young child at home like I do, surely Disney Junior, Disney XD and the Disney channel dominate your TVs and tablets.

For the past couple of weeks, in between Disney programming, you’ll catch a commercial that’s all about encouraging kids to unleash their creativity while helping others. Disney ABC Television Group’s new “Summer of Creativity” initiative will award Youth Service America grants to kids hoping to make a difference in their community and the world through service.

YSA-Grant

Through the initiative, the network will show programming and public service announcements highlighting how creativity can help young people inspire a better tomorrow.

If you know a child between the ages of 5 and 18 who are impacting their communities by making them greener, safer, healthier, cleaner or fairer—please let them know about these grants! Winners will receive $500 to help further their positive efforts. The deadline is August 10th.

Check out the PSA here:

Do you know someone who can benefit from this grant? Do you volunteer in your community?

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Product Review: Proactiv Really Works to Fight Pimples!

June 23, 2015

There might only be one week left in June, but there’s still time to acknowledge Acne Awareness Month.

Since having my son nearly 2 years ago, I’ve suffered from a mild form of the common skin problem. When I first noticed cyst-like bumps forming around my nose, chin and forehead, I figured that it was just hormonal. I knew that my body was changing, but I didn’t anticipate the unsightly pimples to persist as long as they did.  As soon as one would go away, another was waiting in the wings to replace it!

In the beginning, I avoided using any salicylic or benzoyl peroxide topical treatments because I was breastfeeding and didn’t want to harm my baby for the sake of vanity. But, after that was no longer a factor, I opted for all of the over-the-counter creams, gels and pastes I could get my hands on. After many trials and error, Proactiv quickly became my go-to product for tackling my new, uninvited friends.  I don’t know why I hadn’t tried it sooner because the popular brand is practically synonymous with fighting acne. The benzoyl peroxide and glycolic acid-based formula works wonders. For nearly a month, I’ve used a variety of products including: Skin Smoothing Exfoliator, Pore Targeting Treatment, Complexion Hydrator and Emergency Blemish Relief.

ProactivProactiv products available here, (prices vary)

Initially, I noticed a bit of excessive drying after using the Pore Targeting Treatment twice a day. After eliminating an application, the system worked brilliantly. The emergency zit cream is the best. It stops pimple in their tracks if applied at the onset of forming. In fact, I keep it in my purse just in case I need to zap a few zits. It dries clear so there’s no need to only use it at bedtime.

If you’re like me and WELL beyond your teen years and find yourself suffering from acne, give Proactiv a try. I know the cheesy infomercials can be a turnoff, but the stuff really works—at least for me! I’m hoping that eventually my body goes back to normal and I won’t need to use it anymore, but until then it will continue to be a mainstay in my medicine cabinet.

Have you ever suffered from adult acne? If so, what have you used to treat it?

Category: Beauty | Leave a Comment