Brown Girl Gumbo

BGG’s Back-to-School Checklist: Get An A+ in Eye Care

August 11, 2014

It’s hard to believe that my baby girl, Ava, will be starting preschool in a few short weeks.

Like many moms, there are plenty of errands that I need to do in preparation for her big day. From shopping for school supplies to updating her wardrobe, my checklist seems to be endless. While those tasks are priorities, scheduling an appointment with her eye doctor tops the list.

Last month, I attended an event hosted by The Eye Solution/Kids Vision for Life where I learned more about the importance of good eye health. We all know that children need to visit their pediatricians annually, but oftentimes we parents forget to get our little one’s eyes checked out too. Oh, and those quick “eye exams” during routine physicals don’t count.

During the event, I spoke with several experts and learned that this oversight (no pun intended) can lead to mislabeling in school, which can ultimately have avoidable negative effects on students.

For example, a child may not be able to see the blackboard/whiteboard in class and will subsequently say the wrong answer simply because he’s suffering from vision problems. Initially, teachers or parents may conclude that the child is having academic challenges when in fact all he needs is a pair of glasses.

#171275271 / gettyimages.com

Being an ’80’s baby who grew up watching the popular ’90’s TV show, “Beverly Hills, 90210,” I was pleased to know that actress Jennie Garth, is teaming up with The Eye Solution to launch the “Get An A+ in Eye Care” campaign, a program that inspires people to help provide good eye health and vision correction for children (ages 5-12) in need across the U.S. The campaign is simple: see good, share good, and make good happen.

Plus, there’s a social media component that encourages people to “like” The Eye Solution on Facebook to help give back.” For every “like” on The Eye Solution Facebook page, (Alcon) will donate $1 up to $50,000 to help fund more than 1000 eye exams and eyeglasses for underserved children across the country.

Remember, our children’s vision health is incredibly important to their overall well-being and academic success. Don’t forget to make time for them to see an eye doctor annually after the age of 3.

Check out these Eye-Opening Facts from Kids Vision For Life:

*1 out of 4 children in the U.S has a vision problem significant enough to affect learning
*80% of learning in a child’s first 12 years comes through his eyes
*25% of all school children in the U.S have a vision problem significant enough to affect learning
*90% of children who need glasses do not have them
*44% of parents are not aware that behavioral problems can be an indication that a child’s vision is impaired

**GIVEAWAY**In celebration of Back-to-School season, I’m giving away a gift bag filled with eye care goodies for the whole family. Simply leave a comment below and a winner will be randomly selected and announced next Monday, August 18th. This giveaway is open to U.S residents only.

If you have a school-aged child at home, do you schedule annual eye exams for him/her?

Category: Giveaway, Giveaways, Health, Parenting, Travel & Lifestyle | Leave a Comment

New Hair Product Launch: SoftSheen-Carson Hydra Steam Moisturizing System

August 4, 2014

Last week I had the pleasure of attending a press breakfast hosted by SoftSheen-Carson to celebrate the launch of its latest Professional Hair Care Treatment: Hydra Steam Moisturizing System, at the L’Oreal headquarters here in New York City.

Johnny Wright, SoftSheen-Carson Artistic Style Director and stylist to none other than the First Lady Michelle Obama, gave us bloggers and editors a detailed overview of the line as we munched on scrumptious egg pies and sipped the event’s signature blueberry smoothies.

Johnny Wright, SoftSheen-Carson Artistic Style Director and celebrity stylist, telling attendees about the benefits of using the Hydra Steam System.

Created for all hair types, this system, which consists of six products is especially great for us naturalistas. Thanks to its revolutionary steam-activated technology that’s infused with Aloe Vera, it seals in moisture that our tresses crave. In addition to intense hydration, the line promotes curl definition, combats frizz and prevents breakage.

SoftSheen-Carson Hydra System Moisturizing System includes: Sulfate-Free Cleanser, Steam Masque, Curl Designing Cream, Refining Coil Cream, Moisturizing Sealing Spray and Finishing Oil is available at Sally’s Beauty, prices start at $12.99

“Steam treatments hydrate hair 5 times more effectively than using a conditioner alone. They infuse moisture to hair and gently open hair cuticles to allow conditioners to penetrate deeper,” says Wright.

Obviously since the line is brand new, none of us in attendance had tried it, but we were able to see the results on two beautiful models with different hair textures, one of whom was the thrifty fashionista, Afroista (I’m sure you guys are following her on Instagram. If you aren’t, you should be!). The model on the left has a tighter curl pattern similar to my own. Therefore, Wright used the Refining Coil Cream because it softens and provides low hold, as opposed to looser curl patterns that require more hold such as the model’s on the right. For her, Wright used the Curl Designing Cream, which helps define and elongate curls.

Models (Afroista is on the right) showcasing their Hydra Steam System-treated hair.

With the word “steam” in the name, it’s pretty clear that a hair steamer is encouraged for this particular treatment. I honestly have never used a steamer before, but was happy to learn that I can easily replicate the effect of one by using a conditioning cap or steaming hot towel. Although this product line is designed for professional use, it can still be easily used at home too.

I can’t wait to test this line because my hair is beyond dry and brittle. Plus, I’m still suffering from post-partum breakage since having my son last fall. Hopefully, the Hydra System will be just what my parched locks need.

*FUN FACT: Johnny Wright divulged that FLOTUS is in fact natural and he’s in the process of convincing her to wear her natural curls soon!

Do you use steam treatments? How do you keep your hair hydrated?

Category: Beauty, Hair | 6 Comments

6 Cute Reasons to Embrace a Bad Hair Day

July 28, 2014

No matter if you wear your hair relaxed, natural, in locs or braids, just about every woman has experienced a bad hair day.

Luckily, there are many ways to conceal a mane disaster. For me, rocking a fitted baseball cap is a surefire way to hide my hair without compromising style. This season, there are plenty of cute toppers to camouflage less-than-flattering locks.

Plus, the caps’ brims can effortlessly combat those sunshine-filled days by blocking the sun.

From fun florals to paint splatter patterns, finding a fitted cap to keep your ‘do under wraps is a simple and stylish solution.

Check out these picks:

Forever 21 Flower Power Snapback Cap available here, $7

August Hat “Cork” Cap available here, $28

Charlotte Russe Colored Leopard Print Baseball Cap available here, $6

Forever 21 “Paint Splatter” Cap available here, $9

August Hats Lace Baseball Cap available here, $20

Betsey Johnson “Wild Blooms” Baseball Cap available here, $28

Category: Fashion, Style | 1 Comment

Product Review: CurlyKids Hair Care Line

July 22, 2014

We are witnessing a natural hair revolution.

For the first time in decades, we BGs are embracing and proudly flaunting our natural hair textures in droves. But, the best part of this newfound self-acceptance is that we are teaching our children to love their kinks, coils and curls too!

Thanks to brands like CurlyKids, a hair care line that caters to kids’ curly-haired needs, moms like me can comb and style our little one’s hair with confidence.

For the past six months, I’ve been consistently using CurlyKids products on my daughter’s hair. Created to treat a multitude of curly hair textures, especially those with excessive dryness and breakage, the line includes: shampoo, conditioner, gel, control paste, curl defining lotion and detangling sprays.

CurlyKids Hair Care available here, $5 each

Usually, I tend to use a variety of product brands to achieve a desired effect or style. But, this time I wanted to see how the entire line worked together. And, I’m glad I did.

Ava getting her hair washed using CurlyKids Shampoo & Conditioner.

From the sulfate-free shampoo to the frizz-taming control paste, I’ve been pleased with how well the products complement each other. Since she has super dry, easy-to-tangle hair, I have to use products that will properly moisturize without leaving behind a greasy or sticky residue. Luckily, CurlyKids gets the job done.

Ava sporting her signature topknot using CurlyKids Curly Gel Moisturizer.

Out of the line, the Curly Gel Moisturizer and the Super Detangling Spray are my two faves. The gel is fragrance free and doesn’t create that unsightly flakey crust that we all dread. Plus, it adds moisture while taming her curly fly-aways. The Super Detangling Spray makes manageability a breeze because it unsnarls her strands effortlessly.

I achieved this pigtail look by using CurlyKids Control Paste, Gel Moisturizer and Detangling Spray.

Although the brand’s site says it’s for “mixed hair,” my daughter is 100% African-American so it’s safe to say that it’s suitable for ALL curly hair types. Oh and to top it off, all of their products are only $5!

If your little one is in need of some TLC for her tresses, definitely check out CurlyKids!

What products do you use to keep your kids’ hair looking good?

Category: Baby, Beauty, Hair, Health, Parenting, Travel & Lifestyle, Wellness | 3 Comments

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: