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With the best articles on caring for natural hair, Curly Nikki is your source for inspiration and advice. Find out about the latest styles and trends today!

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    Alexandria Museum of Art. Mickalene Thomas, “Why Can’t We Just Sit Down And Talk It Over,” edition 39/40, screenprint, 2006.
    Written by Tiffani Greenaway of MyMommyVents.com

    Curated by the InterDisciplinary Experimental Arts Space (I.D.E.A.) at Colorado College and the Alexandria Museum of Art from the Jordan Schnitzer Family Foundation, "Beyond Mammy, Jezebel, & Sapphire" features images created for and by Black women.

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    After racial slurs began circulating on social media, curator Jessica Hunter-Larsen felt led to create an exhibit that honored Black women and sparked conversation about race and social justice. “It got me thinking,” she says, “how do we help foster respectful dialog? And one of the ways I thought to do that was to bring visual images into the mix.”

    Combating the stereotypes of Black women in mainstream culture, "From the suffering mama, to the stoic victim, to the sassy broad," the exhibit explores our femininity. "Beyond Mammy, Jezebel, and Sapphire" includes pieces by artists Alison Saar, Kara Walker, Mickalene Thomas and Lorna Simpson, “people I thought were particularly important to the themes of the show," says Hunter-Larson. Work by Romare Howard Bearden, Robert H. Colescott, Wangechi Mutu and other well known artists helps to "inspire audiences to think critically about these and the many other dangerous assumptions about Black women in ways that are far more complex than discourses outside of Black feminism and womanism typically allow," reads the exhibit catalogue. "A large part of that work entails listening intently to the ways Black women, including the artists featured here, think about and discuss ourselves on our own terms, which is critical.”
    Alexandria Museum of Art. Lorna Simpson, “C-Rations, edition of 50,” silver gelatin print, 1991.
    In addition to the stirring images, I.D.E.A. will also feature panels and screenings relating to Black women's experiences. On May 9, Venetria Patton, Head of Interdisciplinary Studies and Professor of English and African American Studies, at Purdue University will present a lecture: “Baby Mamas, Beloved, and True Motherhood: Reclaiming Images of Black Women.”
    Alexandria Museum of Art. Mildred Howard, “I’ve Been a Witness to this Game III,” color monoprint/digital on found paper with collage, 2016.
    “We’re really excited,” Hunter-Larsen says. “All the people that we’re bringing in are nationally recognized scholars and artists who are going to be able to bring a very nuanced and articulate perspective to some of the broader themes of the exhibition.”

    “Beyond Mammy, Jezebel, & Sapphire: Reclaiming Images of Black Women” runs from through May 16th at the InterDisciplinary Experimental Arts Space at Colorado College.
    *****************************************
    Tiffani Greenaway is the wife and mom behind MyMommyVents, a New York city parenting blog. Her tips have been seen on Yahoo Parenting, Mommy Noire, and Fit Pregnancy. Find more of Tiffani's work at mymommyvents.com.

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    Photo Credit: Lester Cohen/Wire Image
    Written by Nikki Igo of www.nikigbo.com

    “You are a f***ing ***hole for saying these things,” Dave Chapelle said about 50 minutes into his recently released Netflix Special Age of Spin: Dave Chapelle Live at The Hollywood Palladium. He was quoting a feminist’s disapproval of his views on Bill Cosby during a show in Syracuse. He could have just as easily been paraphrasing the backlash that has proliferated on the web in the weeks since his special premiered. His duel concerts have been decried as misogynistic, homophobic, transphobic, and out of touch with current comedic expectations. I couldn’t help but find this overwhelmingly liberal commentary as laughable as the jokes Chapelle told.

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    I suspect those disenchanted viewers expected a continuation of the opening monologue Chapelle performed on his Saturday Night Live (SNL) appearance last November, ie. more lampooning of Donald Trump, more commentary on white racism, more notes on Black Lives Matter, more criticism of mass shootings and more Obama nostalgia.

    But the Netflix specials were not that at all. Originally taped in early 2016 following the deaths of Phife Dawg and Garry Shandling, the Netflix concerts proved to be more of a comical indictment of progressive thinking. I guess many liberal viewers weren’t quite ready for that.

    I consider myself a liberally-minded individual who leans more blue than red. Still I’m a registered Independent because I recognize that liberals often let their supposed moral high ground and political correctness blind them to their own prejudices. But Chapelle’s comedy doesn’t subscribe to political correctness; instead he broadcasts the thoughts Americans have, but never voice for fear of being labeled as racist, misogynistic, homophobic or transphobic.

    Still, these statements without regard for offense need to be made because we all need to admit and discuss where we stand. And we need to lighten up as we take heed, no matter our various degrees of discomfort, because, as quiet as it’s kept, a bunch of supposed liberals still voted for Trump.

    It was particularly odd to witness some of my most ardent leftist and open-minded friends furiously write on Facebook about their angst and downright rejection of Chapelle’s specials. I chuckled because I specifically remember how one of my Ayn Rand-loving friends in 2006 called Chapelle a reverse-racist. In both cases of conservative and liberal disapproval, these viewers seemed to nitpick specific portions of Chapelle’s comedy while failing to recognize the incredibly astute and layered nature of his social commentary. Perhaps they forgot what kind of comic Chapelle is.

    Back on Chapelle’s Show—One of my favorite sketches was about the blind Ku Klux Klansman whose friends refused to reveal his racial status to him because of his importance to the white supremacist movement. While it was quite easy to laugh at the absurdity of a black klansman, it was truly revolutionary for a black comic to so slyly point out black contributions to systemic racism. The message was this: black people, unaware of who they truly are, often prove to be the most anti-black members of American society. Chapelle hasn’t lost his touch; he’s simply gotten more inclusive with his targets.

    In his stand up, Chapelle has an uncanny way of using anecdotal rhetoric to lend dimension to political perspective. No portion of his comedy is ever accidental or unintentional but rather designed to encourage multiple viewings and deeper consideration. He flexes this comedic muscle in a segment about an encounter with a duo of film producers—one homosexual and the other Texan. He states how he knew the homosexual producer was gay because he “could just tell,” which is a purposeful albeit subtle revelation. How many of us liberals claim to be allies of the LGBT movement and profess to having some sort of “gay-dar?” Yet, if our goal is to accept everyone regardless of sexual orientation, why is it so important for us to label and classify? Chapelle then pitches an idea to the LGBT producer about a gay superhero who primarily only saves other gays but eventually gets around to saving others. Isn’t it funny how special interest groups tend to avidly support their own causes but do little to lend a hand to other movements even as they demand widespread support?

    To the Texan producer, Chapelle pitches an all-American, pro truth and justice, life-saving superhero who depends on sexual assault to replenish his extraordinary abilities. The punchline is not the sexually assaulting superhero himself but rather the Texan producer’s excited reception to such an inane idea. But then again, is the concept really so silly? Texans claim to be pro-life and pro-family but have made it harder for women to vote and have endangered female lives with their war on reproductive health rights. And furthermore, aren’t Roman Polanski, Donald Trump, and Bill O’Reilly still being lauded for their various contributions to society despite their crimes against women? Chapelle also implicates both himself and black folks in this same hypocrisy as he mentions his own reverence of O.J. Simpson and Bill Cosby. Can’t we also include R. Kelly, Chris Brown and Floyd Mayweather in that mix?

    As for Chapelle’s alleged transphobic jokes, I had to admit my own shortcomings on the subject as I watched. Chapelle deftly points out how the media made transgender acceptance seem universal as it celebrated Bruce Jenner’s transition to Caitlyn. However, we all know such acceptance is not the case based on the recent rash of attacks on transgender people and North Carolina’s relentless mission to police genitalia in public restrooms. Even for those of us who are proponents of living and letting live, gender identity and redefining what gender actually is a challenging and confusing concept. Just as Chapelle relays in his anecdote about flubbing the proper pronoun to use for a transgender woman, I have made that same faux pas and been just as annoyed. If a person goes from being a “he” to a “she,” it is difficult for me (having little to no knowledge of the transgender culture and experience) to understand or accurately assess the situation. Expressing this annoyance and confusion isn’t transphobia, nor is it the desire to castigate transgender people. Rather it is an admission that we all have a long way to go on the matter.

    During Age of Spin, Chapelle makes two key statements that most accurately explain his stance on modern liberalism. First he explains that members of the LGBT movement, despite the existence of laws protecting LGBT rights, must understand that America will move toward this particular form of equality with all deliberate speed—which is about as quickly as the nation has moved toward guaranteeing rights for people of color.

    It is going to take a while.

    His second statement charges all of us, and particularly the millennial generation, to take the time to really investigate our world rather than simply accepting statements and actions at face value. It behooves us all to listen, watch and think carefully, instead of simply reacting and immediately judging.

    In short, we all need to calm down and dare to look more deeply into the mirror Chapelle’s comedy presents. His brand of comedy is not out of touch. Nor is it racist, misogynist, homophobic or transphobic. It’s devastatingly honest. And in all of its offensive glory, it asks us to have the decency to laugh at how ridiculous we all have the capacity to be.

    What are your thoughts on Dave Chappelle's Netflix special? Share in the comments section.
    ***************************************
    Nikki Igbo is an Atlanta-based freelance writer and political junkie. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from California State University at Fullerton and a Master of Fine Arts in Writing from Savannah College of Art and Design. When not staring in disbelief at the antics unfolding on CSPAN, she enjoys philosophical arguments with her husband, 70s era music and any excuse to craft with glitter. Feel free to check out her freelance services at nikigbo.com and stalk her on Twitter @nikigbo or on Instagram @nikigbo.

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    Over the weekend, a photo of Michelle Obama surfaced in her natural hair. Technically, she's always been natural, but we've never quite seen her this way.

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    Since the Obama's left office in January, they've been relatively quiet and deservedly so. And while we're aware they've been off doing their own thing, this photo reaffirms it.



    I'm no expert on natural hair, but I'm digging seeing the former First Lady in her natural state. Technically, she's always been natural, but has just wore her hair straightened.

    One user @jacqueline_dlv shared her thoughts on Instagram in the comments section: "Her hair has always been natural...she's just wore it straightened. Before she became First Lady, her and I went to the same hair stylist in Chicago. Rahni from Van Cleef Hair Salon in Chicago. He specialized in all sort of hair...he's been in business for the last 30 years in Chicago. He's the hair/Black hair guru." 
    But still...We've been waiting 8 years for this.
    *************************
    Mike "Orie" Mosley is the managing editor for CurlyNikki.com and a cultural advocate from St. Louis. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Arts, Entertainment & Media Management from Columbia College Chicago and a Masters in Higher Education Administration from LSU. He is also the founder of www.afrotrak.com. In his spare time, he's probably listening to hip hop & neo soul music, hitting up brunch or caught up in deep conversations about Black music. You can follow him on Twitter @mike_orie or on Instagram @mikeorie

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    Written by Tonja Renée Stidhum of www.cinemabunpodcast.com

    Whether it’s for a government or school platform, marketing campaigns are usually a battle of “Who Sticks Out,” so creativity is key! Luckily, Alcorn State University student, Shemesha Martin has creativity in spades! The HBCU student, who is in the running for Miss Senior 2017-2018, decided to forego the traditional bland campaign video route by paying homage to ‘90s hit comedy, Martin.
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    The Huffington Post spoke with the senior title campaign hopeful who confirmed that her campaign manager, Shaqunna Sardin came up with the video, which was directed by Michael Watts and Herman Ceasar. The video is a mock opening theme featuring the fashion, background colors and overall charisma of the original Martin Lawrence sitcom.

    “She was like, ‘Mesha what about ‘Martin,’ and you can be like vote for Shemesha Martinnnnn.’ I thought it was a good idea,” she told HuffPost.

    Martin is a junior Biology/Pre-Dentistry major and a member of Zeta Phi Beta and noted that she’s running for the student government position to urge her fellow classmates, and herself, to become better leaders. Linking herself to the TV show is a play on words of her own surname, which seems to be a fabulous turn of fate. She dedicated an entire week of promotional events including creating an apt catchphrase WZUP: Working Zestfully Unton Progressing as well as the penultimate campaign video where she remixed the TV show’s theme song, featuring her friend Jacobi Holt.


    “Once we started thinking about his famous quotes, it was easy to come up with event ideas,” Martin said. “For example, Martin [is] always saying ‘Martin Love the Kids’ and I thought that would be a great community service project at the daycare on campus. It really just fit the whole concept of the theme.”

    Check out her nostalgic campaign below! And to Shamesha: In the words of the illustrious Martin Lawrence himself, “You go girl!”
    *******************************
    Tonja Renée Stidhum is a writer/director living in Los Angeles by way of Chicago. She is the co-host of the movie review podcast, Cinema Bun Podcast. She is made of sugar and spice and everything rice... with the uncanny ability to make a Disney/Pixar reference in the same sentence as a double entendre. You can follow her on Twitter @EmbraceTheJ, on Facebook FB.com/tstidhum, and Instagram @embracethej. You can find more of her work on her About Me page, https://about.me/tonjareneestidhum.

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    by Mary Wolff

    Traveling can be a lot of fun. From sightseeing and meeting new people to getting some much need rest and relaxation, getting out there in the world has a lot of benefits. One great way to travel is a cruise. It lets you enjoy the fun of travel without the worry of transit. But what about protecting your curls on a cruise? There are a few things to keep in mind while out on the high seas! Here are my top tips for protecting your curls on a cruise.

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    1. Beware the Wind 
    When you are on a cruise, it can be easy to get swept up by the fun and excitement of hanging out on the deck. Most cruises have a lot of social activity happening in the open or partially covered areas such as restaurant terraces with views of the ocean. This brings about the issue of wind. You want to protect your hair against the wind as much as possible. The wind can lead to tangles that are hard to get out. A good tip is to keep hair pulled back or in a head wrap. Try using satin scrunchies or satin wraps to protect your hair from breakage.

    2. Watch Out for Salt 
    Salt is known to be drying to hair. Salt from the ocean can be easily carried from the ocean to your hair by the way of the wind. Even on days when the wind seems tame or the ship is at a dock instead of picking up speed on the water, salt can rob your hair of natural moisture. For this reason alone, you may need to up your hydrating game while on a cruise. Taking extra measure to cover your hair may not be enough. A good tip is to apply your favorite leave-in conditioner and wrap your hair in a silk scarf to make sure your strands are safe each day before leaving your cabin.

    3. Pack the Essentials 
    Nothing is worse than going on vacation and forgetting something your hair really needs. It is even worse on a cruise ship because you can’t just run up to the store around the corner from your hotel. For a cruise, I like to make a list of all the possible hair care products or accessories I might need from bobby pins to satin pillowcases and then pack accordingly. Having it down on paper makes it a lot easier to pack the essentials without forgetting anything! If you're wondering what to pack, I'd recommend a good detangler, moisturizer, and a hard hold styler. All of these products will help keep your hair in excellent condition while out at sea.

    4. Protective Style It 
    If you want to enjoy your cruise without giving too much attention to your hair, protective styles are the way to go. They save you time on your morning routine, look great, and protect your hair against damage. Looking for a few that are easy to do and low-manipulation for an added bonus? Check out these styles here, https://www.naturallycurly.com/curlreading/home/7-protective-styles-for-natural-hair-that-dont-require-extensions/ We especially love braids. They're beautiful and so convenient for travel.

    Traveling doesn’t have to be stressful on your hair. With these tips for curly hair care, your cruise can be a blast!


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    by Mary Wolff

    When it comes to caring for your curls, you may feel more comfortable creating your own products. Maybe you just don’t have the time to run to the store to pick up another bottle. Whatever the case, there are a ton of easy-to-make ideas for a DIY conditioner for curls. They use natural ingredients you probably already have on hand in your kitchen! Here are a few of my favorite recipes for a nourishing DIY conditioner for curls.

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    Olive Oil Conditioner
    This one is simple in ingredients and super moisturizing. It uses only two ingredients and leaves hair nourished thanks to the healthy fats in olive oil. It is also great at combating frizz.

    Ingredients
    • 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
    • 4-8 drops of your favorite essential oil for fragrance
    Simply mix the olive oil and essential oil together. Apply to wet hair or dry hair.  For even better results, you can warm it slightly in a microwave container, but make sure it is not hot, just warm. Rinse as usual.

    Honey/Olive Oil Conditioner 
    Using olive oil and honey to create a sweet treat for your hair, this conditioner will leave hair soft and sleek. Honey is a natural emollient known to nourish strands.

    Ingredients
    • 4 tablespoons honey
    • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
    This recipe requires heat to get an evenly combined mixture. Combine the two ingredients in a pan to heat up on low heat to medium heat. You just need enough heat to combine the two without them separating. Once they are mixed evenly together, let it cool to a comfortable warmth to avoid burning yourself. Apply to hair. If you can let it soak in for thirty minutes, you get even more moisturizing from it than if you immediately rinse it out. Also, you will want to rinse it with warm water because the honey needs a little heat to fully get out of your hair. Finish with a cool rinse to beat the frizzies.

    Coco-cado Conditioner 
    For a recipe using the best of avocado and coconut together, this recipe is a must-try. It is super nourishing thanks to the healthy fats found in avocado and the coconut, and it is a natural way to battle frizz. This is a great DIY conditioner for when hair is extra dry and frizzy.

    Ingredients
    • 1 avocado
    • 1 cup coconut milk (whole fat preferably)
    • 2 tablespoons coconut oil

    In a bowl, mash the inside pulp of a ripe avocado until worked into a paste. Add the milk and oil. Mix untilyou get an even, smooth consistency. Apply to hair and rinse as usual.

    When you need a quick fix for your curls, these DIY recipes are easy and effective. Give your strands the moisture they deserve!


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    By Sharee Silerio


    Ava DuVernay, an award-winning screenwriter, producer, director and distributor of independent films, has been named on Fortune Magazine’s “World’s Greatest Leaders”list.


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    The annual list, in its fourth year, critiques focusing on the negative things leaders do and instead aims to pay homage to people around the world who “excel at leading effectively in today’s environment” in their respective fields.


    DuVernay ranks No. 6 on the list, and the magazine says that “Her success continues to draw attention to Hollywood’s need for better representation of women and minorities both in front of, and behind, the camera.”


    The lack of diversity in film and television, including the limiting ways black and brown people are often portrayed, has been called out and criticized over the last few years. Viral hashtags like #OscarsSoWhite have shed light on the Academy’s lack of minority nominations and accolades.


    DuVernay is dedicated to diversifying the film industry through Array Now, a film distribution and resource collective focused on amplifying independent films by women and filmmakers of color, thus giving their work a voice.


    This year, she received her first Oscar nomination for 13th, a documentary about the connection between the prison system and racism in the United States. She is the first black female director to be nominated for a Golden Globe Award and the first black female director to have her film nominated for the Academy Award for Best Picture. DuVernay continues to make history, as she is the first black woman to direct a film with a budget of $100 million, for an adaptation of Disney’s A Wrinkle in Time.


    Although she has been a filmmaker for less than a decade, she is a trailblazer who has used her conscience and gift for storytelling to not only change the film and television industries, but forge a path for others to do the same.

    *************************************

    Sharee Silerio is a St. Louis-based freelance writer, Film and TV writer-producer, and blogger. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from St. Louis University and a Master of Arts in Media Communications from Webster University. When she isn’t creating content for The Root or The St. Louis American, she enjoys watching drama, sci-fi, and comedy movies and TV shows, writing faith and self-love posts for SincerelySharee.com, relaxing with a cup of chai tea, crafting chic DIY event décor, and traveling. Review her freelance portfolio at ShareeSilerio.comthen connect with her on Facebook, Instagramand Twitter.


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    Written by Nikki Igbo

    The older I get the more I am thankful for the awakening I’m witnessing in black America—an awakening that involves black adults specifically passing on a love of blackness to our children. One such adult is Lawrence Lindell, a Compton-based illustrator who created a picture book which expresses affection and admiration for girls of color. With each purchase of the book “From Black Boy With Love,” Lindell sends the following regards:

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    “This book is for all the girls of color across the world who have been made to feel uncomfortable in their own skin. You are life, you are important and you matter. From this black boy with love. –Lawrence”

    Released on March 20, the 24-page collection of positive, uplifting messages directed at black and brown girls to refute and perhaps prevent the race-based taunts Lindell often hears children hurl at each other—particularly those insults boys often direct at girls. Working as a youth art educator, Lindell says the barbs start early.

    “I teach ages 6 through 12 and those kinds of taunts start as soon as first grade. It is usually things they learn from home, the internet and television. Kids are like sponges; they soak up whatever they hear and are exposed to on the regular,” Lindell explained in an email interview with CurlyNikki.com.

    I remember that kind of mockery all too well from my childhood.

    At school: “You little skinny black spot with your fish lips” and “you’re black because you’re burnt.”

    At home: “We’re all still waiting for the rest of you to grow into those lips” and “we need to do something about those can’t-cha-comb-‘em-don’t-cha-try naps on your head.”
    I wanted so desperately to receive any sort of confirmation that my attributes were actually okay and even beautiful. In my mind, I created my own “you are beautiful too” bank account. Any time I saw a kinky-haired, dark-skinned female with full lips on television, I made a deposit. Akosua Busia who played Nettie on The Color Purple. BerNadette Stanis who played Thelma on Good Times. Roxie Roker who played Helen Willis on The Jeffersons. Poems like And She Was Bad by Marvin Wyche, Jr. and Ego Tripping by Nikki Giovanni went into that bank account. Songs like Ebony Eyes by Stevie Wonder and Liberian Girl by Michael Jackson went into that bank account.

    Yet as resourceful as I was about grasping onto every available source of self-pride, how I would have loved a book like From Black Boy With Love on my bedroom book shelf. As much as those boys (and sometimes girls) tormented me, I still wanted to be accepted, appreciated and loved by them. I wanted them to understand that there was so much more beauty in the world than light skin and long, straight hair. I wanted them to see what I’d seen on television, read in books and heard in songs, and I wanted them to believe it as much as I did.

    At some point in my early teens, I realized that the girls who shared my uniquely black characteristics, but somehow avoided the teasing, were the ones who were considered “sexy.” These were the girls who exposed a little more skin that the rest of us, sported hickeys with pride, and let boys’ hands linger on their budding bodies. Looking back, I can say now that I appreciate having been such a late bloomer. If I had’ve developed certain assets early on, I would have been right there with those other girls collecting what I thought was a suitable substitute for actual love and respect. In reading the excerpts from Lindell’s book, I felt as if his messages would have helped me to better identify the kind of attention I should have looked for from a young man.

    Lindell says it wasn’t necessarily intentional that his book moves readers away from the notion that women of color must be considered sexy to garner any positive attention but he does value the fact that the book succeeds in doing so.

    “I simply made a book to celebrate women of color,” he says though he also views sexualization of women as a longstanding problem also warranting attention.

    “In my grandmother’s days, they were marrying off women at 15 and their purpose was to bear children and take care of the household. To me, telling a young girl that her purpose is to bear children and serve is sexualization. This is nothing new; the youth are following suit.”

    While Lindell is up against myriad reasons as to the how and why of the way men view and interact with women, he’s still motivated to contribute to a new paradigm.

    “Patriarchy, religion, upbringing, culture. It’s no secret that this world is not set up for women. It’s just not. And most of the time when we ask why, it boils down to ‘this is the way things are done’ or ‘this is what men do.’ It comes from women too. ‘I want a real man; someone to take charge.’ As men, we barely have to take accountability for our actions and often have too many outlets to excuse them.”
    One of the pages of From Black Boy With Love reads: “Black girl, your skin is magic, your voice is power, you are life!” If this is the first step toward a shift in the relationship between black men and black women and the end of misogynoir, I can’t wait to see what’s next.

    From Black Boy With Love is available for purchase here.
    What are your thoughts on this book concept? Would you buy it?
    *********************************************
    Nikki Igbo is an Atlanta-based freelance writer and political junkie. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Political Science from California State University at Fullerton and a Masters in Fine Arts of Writing at Savannah College of Art and Design. When not staring in disbelief at the antics unfolding on CSPAN, she enjoys philosophical arguments with her husband, 70's era music and any excuse to craft with glitter. Feel free to check out her freelance services at nikigbo.com and stalk her on twitter @nikigbo or Instagram at @nikigbo.

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    Brown girls now have a formidable trio that looks like them in the animation world!

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    The Tibeb Girls is a Powerpuff Girl-inspired Ethiopian adventure series, with a serious heart for

    social justice, that’s geared towards teaching adolescents about activism and leadership. The

    action-drama radio series takes on the most devastating and pressing issues faced by girls in

    the region, like child marriage and HIV infection. With courage and the help of their

    superpowers, the Tibeb Girls fight against injustice and the harmful practices that Ethiopian girls

    face and learn about problem-solving and solution implementation, empathy, and teamwork

    along the way.

    Tibeb Girls follows three young girls who use their superpowers to fight against injustice and the
    many harmful practices Ethiopian girls routinely face. Using their powers to see the past and
    future, Tibeb Girls draws the audience into the typical lives of Ethiopian girls, building empathy
    for their hardship and a vision of a brighter future. The series places girls’ issues at the center
    and provides examples of girls asserting themselves, problem-solving, and implementing
    solutions. By broadcasting a program that will examine harmful practices and explore girls’
    agency in addressing those challenges, Tibeb Girls will foster a culture of conversation among
    girls, families, and throughout the broader community.

    Per the series website: “In a place such as Ethiopia, where social supports are often
    inadequate, adolescent girls struggle to find a path into a healthy and secure adult life. Many
    adolescent girls struggle with limited access to high-quality education while simultaneously
    facing traditional practices such as child marriage and health risks such as high maternal death
    rates and HIV infection. According to Girl Up, a campaign of the United Nations foundation, only
    38% of girls and young women between the ages of 15-24 in Ethiopia are literate, one in five
    girls is married before the age of 15, and girls ages 15-19 are seven times more likely to be HIV
    positive than their male peers. Furthermore, 12% of girls between the ages of fifteen and
    nineteen are mothers or pregnant with their first child.” (sources: Ethiopian Demographic and
    Health Survey, 2011; World Bank data, 2013, 2005; EFA Global Monitoring Report, 2009; UN
    data, 2012; UNDP Human Development Report 2013)

    Tibeb Girls is produced by Whiz Kids Workshop, which was established in 2005 by a husband-
    wife team. With general storylines and characters already established, the team is seeking
    support for the initial pilot season of Tibeb Girls, with a with a mission to produce 13 radio and
    13 television episodes in the second year and 13 radio and 26 television episodes in the final
    year.

    This series is a great stepping-stone for a variety of reasons, including media inclusion and
    social awareness, of which young boys and girls can benefit from. Check out Whiz Kids
    Workshop and support their initiatives!
    What are your thoughts on this developing new series?
    ******************************
    Tonja Renée Stidhum is a writer/director living in Los Angeles by way of Chicago. She is the co-host of the movie review podcast, Cinema Bun Podcast. She is made of sugar and spice and everything rice... with the uncanny ability to make a Disney/Pixar reference in the same sentence as a double entendre. You can follow her on Twitter @EmbraceTheJ, on Facebook FB.com/tstidhum, and Instagram @embracethej. You can find more of her work on her About Me page, https://about.me/tonjareneestidhum.

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    Images from PRNewswire/NY and Company Inc.

    Written by Tiffani Greenaway of MyMommyVents.com

    If you love Mary Jane Paul's style on the hit BET show Being Mary Jane, get your coins ready. Gabrielle Union is collaborating with New York and Company's sub brand, 7th Avenue Design Studio.
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    “Mary Jane’s style reflects power, leadership, and risk taking,” Union said in a statement. “She wears classic styles but with a twist, which is why I think she’d definitely shop at New York & Company.”

    The star's namesake collection dropped yesterday, and promises to be “unlike anything our customers have ever seen from us," said New York & Company CEO Greg Scott. “Our customers will relate to Gabrielle. She has worked hard to establish a successful career and is both, aspirational and inspirational..."

    Starting this month, Union will be an ambassador for the brand. You'll see her on billboards, social media, online and in stores, wearing the chic dresses and modern suits New York &Company has become known for.

    Union's 6-piece collection includes a dress, skirt, blazer, trench, romper, and jumpsuit in sizes from 0-20 and X-small to XX-large--perfect for the career woman on the go.

    “I am excited to work with a brand that’s known for embracing diversity and that caters specifically to women—especially women who want to look on-point without breaking the bank," she said. "I can’t wait to show everyone what I’ve been working on!”
    What are your thoughts on this new collaboration?
    ********************************
    Tiffani Greenaway is the wife and mom behind MyMommyVents, a New York city parenting blog. Her tips have been seen on Yahoo Parenting, Mommy Noire, and Fit Pregnancy. Find more of Tiffani's work at mymommyvents.com.

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    Photo courtesy of Tomi Adeyemi's Instagram

    Written by Sharee Silerio
    23-year-old Tomi Adeyemi, a Nigerian-American writer and creative writing coach, is following in the footsteps of Margot Lee Shetterly, author of the book-turned-hit-film Hidden Figures.
    Continue Reading
    Like Shetterly, Ayedemi’s first book, Children Of Blood And Bone is being developed as a movie, even though it hasn’t been published yet!

    Described as ‘Avatar: The Last Airbender meets Black Lives Matter’, the book is a West African YA (Young Adult) novel about redemption, family, love, loss, systemic oppression, hatred and strength.

    Her book deal with Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group is reportedly one of the biggest YA debut novel publishing deals ever, and Fox 2000’s acquisition deal is said to be in the seven-figures.

    There aren’t many details about the book, but the author’s website provides a brief, yet stimulating synopsis:
    In a blog post titled Why I Write: Telling a Story that Matters Adeyemi says that she writes because “it is a burning passion to tell a story about someone who is different and to force readers to fall in love with what is different from them. It's the thought that one day a little girl might be able to walk into the library and see a protagonist that actually looks like her.”
    Finding books with black people on the cover or as main characters can be difficult. Even further, black representation in genres like science fiction, fantasy, and mystery is scarce.

    Finding books with black people on the cover or as main characters can be difficult. Even further, black representation in genres like science fiction, fantasy, and mystery is scarce.

    Children Of Blood And Bone is the first in what will be a trilogy, hopefully sparking a literary empire like that of J. K. Rowling’s, author of the Harry Potter series.

    The book has a 4.75 rating on Goodreads, and according to the site, it’s expected to be published next year.

    We should all keep our eyes on Adeyemi and her work as it looks like she’s going to have a major impact on the types of black stories that are written, published and brought to the big screen.
    Sharee Silerio is a St. Louis-based freelance writer, Film and TV writer-producer, and blogger. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from St. Louis University and a Master of Arts in Media Communications from Webster University. When she isn’t creating content for The Root or The St. Louis American, she enjoys watching drama, sci-fi, and comedy movies and TV shows, writing faith and self-love posts for SincerelySharee.com, relaxing with a cup of chai tea, crafting chic DIY event décor, and traveling. Review her freelance portfolio atShareeSilerio.com then connect with her on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

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    by Mary Wolff

    A good hair day can make any day seem better. If you have ever experienced a truly heinous hair day, you know this is true. When your hair looks and feels great, you feel confident and ready to take on the day. To make sure you rock your curls with confidence on the regular, here are my 5 tips for a good hair day every day. 
    1. Invest in Silk/Satin
    Friction is the enemy of hair. It causes the cuticles to raise which leads to short term problems like frizz and long term problems like loss of moisture and breakage. I can’t stress enough how important it is to wrap your hair at night. Don’t just wrap it in anything. Silk or satin is the best way to protect your strands while you snooze. It is the gentlest material to avoid the friction caused by other materials in terms of pillowcases. It also helps to lock in moisture. 

    2. Bring Products with You
    You know the scenario. You styled your hair and it looks great. You’re ready to take on the day with gorgeous curls and then suddenly humidity, wind, or rain hit. Any curly girl knows you have to have a little product in your bag wherever you go! Since you don’t want to lug your whole hair care collection everywhere, one of my favorite tips is to see if your brand has travel sized options you can throw in your bag. Or better yet, make your own grab and go versions! Pick up some travel sized bottles at the store and fill them with your favorite products. 

    3. Have a Routine
    This one is a biggie. A good hair day is no accident. It takes a lot of work that goes on long before the day of good hair. The general routine includes cleansing, daily conditioner, weekly hair masks, biweekly scalp treatments, and regular trims as the foundation of good hair. Obviously, how you perform these tasks will depend on your hair type, texture, and the overall condition of your hair. The important thing is to have a schedule and consistent routine in place to achieve healthy hair. 

    4. Stay Hydrated
    You may pay a lot to attention to your strands receiving moisture, but do you ever think about the connection between hair hydration and how much water you drink? Well, you should! If you are dehydrated, your hair is dehydrated. When you aren’t getting enough water on a daily basis, your hair has a harder time retaining moisture. In extreme cases of dehydration, you may even have hair loss. You want to aim for 8-10 8oz glasses of water a day. 

    5. Use the Right Brush 
    A good or bad hair day can be a result of the brush. If you are using a brush that is not right for your texture, you run the risk of breakage and strand loss. You might also be irritating the cuticles and creating more frizz by using too rough of a brush.  Make sure you are using a wide toothed comb to detangle. Another big tip is to never brush hair when it is really wet because you get more breakage that way. 

    There are a ton of tips and tricks to help you have a good hair day. With these tips, you can make sure you have that great hair day on repeat!

    Let us know your thoughts on these tips in the comments section!

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    Pictured: Angie Thomas, author of The Hate U Give

    By Sharee Silerio

    What will it take to get #BlackLivesMatter opponents to see, feel and accept the humanity of black people in the United States? What will it take for the men, women and children killed by police officers to be viewed as human, when their pasts are used to justify their deaths?

    The Hate U Give, a Young Adult book written by Angie Thomas, might be one of many answers to these questions.

    Continue Reading
    In her debut novel, Thomas humanizes the black struggle, the cries of protesters; the reality of being black, and black and female, in America.

    The novel’s synopsis reveals that it explores police violence, racial justice, activism and code-switching:

    “Sixteen-year-old Starr Carter moves between two worlds: the poor neighborhood where she lives and the fancy suburban prep school she attends. The uneasy balance between these worlds is shattered when Starr witnesses the fatal shooting of her childhood best friend Khalil at the hands of a police officer. Khalil was unarmed.

    Soon afterward, his death is a national headline. Some are calling him a thug, maybe even a drug dealer and a gangbanger. Protesters are taking to the streets in Khalil's name. Some cops and the local drug lord try to intimidate Starr and her family. What everyone wants to know is: what really went down that night? And the only person alive who can answer that is Starr.

    But what Starr does or does not say could upend her community. It could also endanger her life.”

    Inspired by the #BlackLivesMatter movement, the teen book echoes the deaths of #TrayvonMartin, #EricGarner and #MikeBrown, including the political, social and (lack of) legal action that followed.

    The title of the book stems from Tupac Shakur’s THUG LIFE philosophy, which stands for “The Hate U Give Little Infants F**ks Everybody”. In other words, what society instills in its youth, including how society treats them, will return to it in full force, affecting us all.


    THUG, which is Thomas’ debut novel, is a #1 New York Times Best Seller, and has been optioned by Fox 2000 to be made into a film. George Tillman Jr. from the movie Soul Food is attached to direct the project and Hunger Games actress Amandla Stenberg is attached to star in it.

    The novel has received rave reviews, including a rating of 4.73 out of five stars on Goodreads. There is also a discussion guide to supplement the book, which can be downloaded here.

    Storytelling has long been an effective device in changing societies, encouraging empathy and connecting people from all walks of life.

    The Hate U Give is on track to hopefully be one of many books that will open the eyes and hearts of readers to what it’s like to be a minority, poor and disenfranchised in America.

    If you’re looking for a passionate, enlightening and powerful way to teach people about the complexities of prejudice, police relations and socioeconomic disparity in the U.S., this novel appears to be a great start.
    What are your thoughts on the book? Is this something you'd read?
    **********************************************
    Sharee Silerio is a St. Louis-based freelance writer, Film and TV writer-producer, and blogger. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from St. Louis University and a Master of Arts in Media Communications from Webster University. When she isn’t creating content for The Root or The St. Louis American, she enjoys watching drama, sci-fi, and comedy movies and TV shows, writing faith and self-love posts for SincerelySharee.com, relaxing with a cup of chai tea, crafting chic DIY event décor, and traveling. Review her freelance portfolio at ShareeSilerio.com then connect with her on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

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    Written by Nikki Igbo

    This past Wednesday, Atlanta Hawks forward Thabo Sefolosha received a payout of $4 million from the city of New York to settle a police brutality civil suit. In April 2015, Sefolosha suffered a potentially career-ending leg break at the hands of a police officer during an arrest outside of the 10AK nightclub in New York.

    Continue Reading
    Sefolosha joins a long national list police brutality victims who have received thousands, if not millions, of dollars in settlements awarded by the cities in which the misconduct occurred. In Austin, TX, the city council paid $3.25 million to the family of David Joseph, an African-American teenager who was naked and unarmed when he was fatally shot by police. The city of Baltimore paid $6.4 million to the family of Freddie Gray, an African-American man who was unarmed and shackled when his neck was broken in a police van.
    Atlanta Hawks forward Thabo Sefolosha
    The city of Cleveland paid $6 million to the family of Tamir Rice, a 12-year-old African-American child who was in possession of a toy gun when he was fatally shot by police. The city of San Jose paid a $525,000 to Dawit Alemayehu, an Ethiopian immigrant who suffered brain damage after an officer handcuffed him and dropped his head to the ground. I could write tomes on the victims and payouts alone. In the majority of such cases, the officers involved admitted to no wrongdoing and often remained on the force.

    According to a 2015 report by the Wall Street Journal, American taxpayers have paid more than $1 billion since 2010 in settlements for bad policing practices: the 10 cities with the largest police departments shelling out a combined $248.7 million in 2014 alone. In New York City, for instance, the city disbursed $228.5 million on judgments in police misconduct lawsuits for the fiscal year 2016 costing each New Yorker about $27 and equaling $28.7 million more than the $220 million New York State allocated to the city to fight homelessness.

    It appears that, for people of color, although victims can expect little in the way of punishment for the offending officer, getting killed or abused by their local police force is a lucrative alternative to playing their state’s lottery.

    Cities across America regularly set aside a portion of tax revenue for various lawsuits against their governments including those regarding police misconduct. Taxpayers, after catching word of these huge settlements, are supposed to vote to replace city officials with those who will be more vigilant in preventing their police department’s use of excessive force. Of course, that is not happening.

    I’d personally love to see taxpayers demand that their hard-earned money be put to better use for better police training on cultural sensitivity, Constitutional law and how to properly deescalate a potentially violent encounters. According to Pepsi, perhaps taxpayers should ask city officials to use the lawsuit settlement funds to purchase bottomless supplies of the sugary carbonated beverage for their police force along with a stipend for a team of young, pretty, fair-skinned models from wealthy families to deliver said drinks.

    Maybe cities could fund independent, impartial commissions to investigate these police misconduct cases instead of relying on internal investigators and grand juries who will undoubtedly let these officers off the hook and back onto the street. With all the money flying around in civil suits, again over $1 billion, the possibilities are endless.

    But I won’t hold my breath.
    Photograph by Daniel Glustoker/AP for Panini
    In the meantime, I'm sure Colin Kaepernik will keep peacefully protesting and using his own athletically-earned millions for goodwill as long as some cop doesn't come along and break his leg for nothing. And so many rightfully concerned blacks across the country will continue to spread the gospel of Black Lives Matter in whatever way they can because the news will undoubtedly keep providing both with plenty of reasons to do so.

    According to the Washington Post, as of writing this post, 271 people have been fatally shot by the police this year. Admittedly, the majority, 124, of those victims were white which is almost half and is fairly proportional to the 63% of Americans who are white. But African-Americans made up the next highest amount of victims at 69 which is 20% of those killed and is proportionally excessive to the 13.2% of Americans who are black.

    Perhaps, once those families get their settlement money, they’ll be able to fund some sort of reasonable, life-saving solution.
    Nikki Igbo is an Atlanta-based freelance writer and political junkie. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Political Science from California State University at Fullerton and a Masters in Fine Arts of Writing at Savannah College of Art and Design. When not staring in disbelief at the antics unfolding on CSPAN, she enjoys philosophical arguments with her husband, 70's era music and any excuse to craft with glitter. Feel free to check out her freelance services at nikigbo.com and stalk her on twitter @nikigbo or Instagram at @nikigbo.

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    Demetrius Ship, Jr. plays 2Pac in upcoming biopic 'All Eyez On Me'

    This week, Complex obtained an exclusive first look at the much-anticipated Tupac biopic All Eyez On Me.

    Continue Reading


    Per Complex: “In this new All Eyez On Me trailer, we get to really see how Pac lived. From his friendship (and eventual feud with) The Notorious B.I.G. to his no-holds-barred demeanor when it came to dealing with the media to the flash and the cash of being one of rap's biggest superstars, it's all laid out for us. There are glimpses of the infamous Quad Studios shooting in 1994, the scuffle he got into during the Mike Tyson/Bruce Sheldon fight in Las Vegas, and the drive-by that ultimately ended his life. From the highest highs to the lowest lows, All Eyez On Me appears to deliver all sides of 'Pac.”

    When it was first announced that Demetrius Shipp, Jr. would be portraying the illustrious ‘Pac, the uncanny resemblance was striking. However, that striking resemblance is taken up several notches in the trailer where Shipp embodies Tupac’s essence so much, I had to double-take. It’s also nice to see the crossover from the Biggie biopic, Notorious with Jamal Woodard reprising his role of the Bad Boy 90s king. And of course, the towering appearance of the infamous Suge Knight (Dominic L. Santana) was very effective.

    Shipp described the much-hyped flick as "one of the biggest biopics of all time.”

    The film will give us an inside look at 'Pac's life, his star-studded career, and his tragic death in September of 1996. Along with Woodard’s Biggie encore portrayal, the cast features Kat Graham as Jada Pinkett-Smith, Stefon Washington as Sean "Puff Daddy" Combs, Danai Gurira as ‘Pac’s mother Afeni Shakur, and more.

    All Eyez On Me is set to be released on Friday, June 16, 2017 (aka Pac's 46th birthday)! For the very eager fans, you can cop your advanced tickets via Fandango!


    What are your thoughts on this new biopic? Do you plan on watching it?
    ******************************
    Tonja Renée Stidhum is a writer/director living in Los Angeles by way of Chicago. She is the co-host of the movie review podcast, Cinema Bun Podcast. She is made of sugar and spice and everything rice... with the uncanny ability to make a Disney/Pixar reference in the same sentence as a double entendre. You can follow her on Twitter @EmbraceTheJ, on Facebook FB.com/tstidhum, and Instagram @embracethej. You can find more of her work on her About Me page, https://about.me/tonjareneestidhum.

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    Screen grab from My Black Is Beautiful music video. 

    Image has a significant impact on children growing up and maintaining a positive one is especially important for Black girls, who’ve had a history of being shown that they are the least desired by society. Fortunately, there has been a push to combat that within recent years and we have another powerful example to add to the bunch!

    Continue Reading


    Massachusetts teacher and singer Lovely Hoffman overheard some of the female students at her predominantly black middle school complaining about their appearance, a symptom of a “European beauty standards” dominated society. In response, Hoffman created a music video titled “My Black Is Beautiful.”

    The video explores combating societal-causing insecurities and becoming confident in all features including hair, weight and skin tone. The video features the girls assessing themselves in the mirror as Hoffman croons affirming messages. There is one significant moment where a young girl is seen looking at an OK! Magazine cover with mostly White celebrities and is then handed an issue of Essence Magazine featuring Viola Davis on the cover, by her peer.

    By the end of the video, all of the young ladies are expressing more prominent self-confidence and embracing one another.

    In a recent press release for the music video, Hoffman mused, “There is a strong correlation between self-esteem and student achievement. As an educator, I believe it is my duty to not only ensure students are reaching their potential academically, but that they are also comfortable and confident in their own skin. It’s about educating the whole child.”

    This is a dope video that should reach many Black girls in classrooms and beyond!


    **********************************
    Tonja Renée Stidhum is a writer/director living in Los Angeles by way of Chicago. She is the co-host of the movie review podcast, Cinema Bun Podcast. She is made of sugar and spice and everything rice... with the uncanny ability to make a Disney/Pixar reference in the same sentence as a double entendre. You can follow her on Twitter @EmbraceTheJ, on Facebook FB.com/tstidhum, and Instagram @embracethej. You can find more of her work on her About Me page, https://about.me/tonjareneestidhum.

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    Chicago high school senior, Ariyana Davis was accepted into 23 Historically Black Colleges, gaining over $300,000 in scholarships

    During the past few weeks, black social media has done a great job of showcasing and sharing young African-American high achievement. One such high achiever is eighteen-year-old Ariyana Davis of Chicago, a young go-getter who was recently accepted into all 24 of the colleges to which she applied. Twenty-three of those schools were historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs). CurlyNikki.com sat down for an exclusive interview with Ariyana.

    Continue Reading


    Ever humble and gracious, the aspiring accountant credits her success to her parents.

    “My parents were first generation college students and instilled in me the importance of seeking higher education and how it can lead to success,” says Davis. “Both of my parents have graduate degrees which were essential to their abilities to provide for me and my younger sister.”

    Davis also notes the in-depth preparation she received at her high school Mother McAuley Liberal Arts High School.

    “My school prepared not only seniors but all grade levels by introducing and teaching them about what to expect when applying for college,” she explains. “Several times per semester, the college counselors gave presentations about scholarships and college applications to all students during their lunch periods which are called ‘Lunch and Learns.’ What I found most helpful about those presentations were the resources and assistance they provided for the students when it comes to applying for scholarships and studying the ACT.”

    Davis, to date, has received over $300,000 in scholarships. Though she obviously had a score of colleges from which to choose, she has set her sights on attending Alcorn State University, an HBCU established since 1871 in Alcorn, Mississippi, where she received a scholarship which will cover the cost of her tuition, books, and room and board for four years. Davis did not make this decision lightly.

    “When I think of Alcorn State University, I think of it as a small, rural, family-oriented, close-knit community that truly cares about each student’s education,” Davis explains. “In addition, I have also been accepted into the Honors Program which will provide me with more academic opportunities. I also have close family friends that have attended and are currently attending Alcorn.”

    Distinguished alumni of Alcorn State University include civil rights activists and martyr Medgar Evers, activist and journalist Myrlie Evers-Williams, author Alex Haley, late actor Michael Clarke Duncan, and professional bodybuilding champion Iris Kyle.

    If Davis had not have chosen Alcorn, it is highly likely that she would have opted for another HBCU.

    “It was important for me to pick an institution that felt like home, especially with all of the racial tensions occurring in America. HBCUs provide an environment, especially for African-Americans to gather and bring together those with relatable interests and experiences. Many of the students and professors will look like me and will have travelled similar paths in life.”

    Davis is also up for the uniquely challenging coursework Alcorn State University and HBCUs offer.

    “These institutions provide a rigorous curriculum and a nurturing and comforting environment that is important to me as I enter into adulthood. I am confident that after completing my undergraduate degree, I will be able to successfully obtain a master's degree at any college or university in the nation.”

    And the accountant-to-be plans on fully capitalizing on her experience at Alcorn as she looks to her future as a Certified Public Accountant. Since her elementary school days, she has specifically focused on participating in those programs which have emphasized math, a subject at which she absolutely excels.

    “My mother and father noticed my talent in math and suggested that I pursue a career in accounting and business,” shares Davis. “Since elementary school, I’ve participated in college programs that were geared toward early exposure in the accounting field.” The talented number-cruncher says that she is drawn to the problem-solving and analysis skills required in accounting as well as business ethics.”

    “I am a proponent of ethical behavior in business,” Davis says. “It is imperative that the business community, nationally and internationally, embraces ethics and a commitment to social responsibility.”

    As Davis prepares to forge ahead in her college and career pursuits, she has this bit of advice for other students interested in attending HBCUs.

    “When applying to HBCUs, begin by researching those schools through Niche, Twitter, YouTube and other forms of social media in your high school freshmen year to see which school is right for you academically and financially. Study and take the ACT over and over again until you are satisfied with your score. You can take the ACT up to 12 times throughout high school. Use the Common Black College Application to apply to up to 50 colleges for just $35. Finally, do what you have to now so that you can do what you want to later.”

    The Common Black College Application can be accessed at commonblackcollegeapp.com.

    Congratulations to Ariyana Davis on being accepted into 23 HBCU's.
    ******************************************
    Nikki Igbo is an Atlanta-based freelance writer and political junkie. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Political Science from California State University at Fullerton and a Masters in Fine Arts of Writing at Savannah College of Art and Design. When not staring in disbelief at the antics unfolding on CSPAN, she enjoys philosophical arguments with her husband, 70's era music and any excuse to craft with glitter. Feel free to check out her freelance services at nikigbo.com and stalk her on twitter @nikigbo or Instagram at @nikigbo.

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    My babies (Gia on the left) at about the same age!

    Hola Chicas,

    Baby Max is already two months old! And in addition to sleeping alllll the whole night (!) and being really, really, ridiculously adorable, apparently he's a #BabyGenius--

    A post shared by (Curly)Nikki Walton (@curlynikki) on

    The view--

    Max is so Kanye with the paparazzi #StayMuggin

    I had my 6 week post-natal appointment-- the one that frees you to resume relations and commence operation #snapback. Well, not only was I cleared as 'healthy as hell' after my post-natal pre-eclampsia scare, but I also weighed in at just 5 pounds above my pre-pregnancy weight! This was with absolutely no exercise or dieting, just eating deliciously (like seriously everything, I'm hungry, y'all) in moderation and taking up the role as milk factory... although I'm attributing my newly acquired Michelle Obama arms to carrying Max in that car seat all around town. I plan to resume a little cardio (stationary bike) and do some much needed toning! 


    My bookworm 

    #BigSisBoogie

    Oct 2016 / April 2017
    This is my first twist out in 6 mos! I rocked blow outs for ease of styling (too busy making a new human for night maintenance or once weekly re-styling) and would rock knot-outs for texture. This (the April 2017 snap) is 3 day hair. I originally styled using Jane Carter's new moisturizing cream and Mane Choice's Biotin gel on soaking wet hair. I created 10 twists and allowed them to dry over night. Every night since, I've pulled the back section down into two low pony tails using claw clips, and the front section forward into a loose pineapple using a claw clip. The claw clips don't pull your curls straight and don't leave an indent. I'm itching for another cut tho... thinking about letting @shirleyghautehair at this mane next week! #BobLife 



    #StayMuggin 

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    Watch out, Usain Bolt. The world's fastest man has some new competition--and she's only twelve years old.

    Continue Reading


    Brianna Lyston set a new record when she flew past her competitors, finishing the 200-meter final of the Boys and Girls Championship in Kingston, Jamaica with a record-breaking time of 23.72 seconds. At the age of fifteen, eight-time Olympian Usain Bolt finished the same race in 21.81 seconds--mere seconds faster than the twelve year old champion.

    “I’m so proud of her. It was just fantastic to watch," Brianna's mother, Toya Bennett, told UK's The Telegraph. "She always trains very hard and when she came off the track she just felt great.”

    Photo Credit: Bryan Cummings.
    Lyston now holds the Class 4 (under-13) 200-meter record, only 2.38 seconds behind the female world record set by America's Florence Griffith-Joyner at the 1988 Olympic Games--but she's challenging herself to be even faster.

    "I think I can go much faster, I am looking for 23.80 seconds. My coach told me to go out and make the semi-finals and I plan to run hard in every race," she told Jamaica's Gleaner newspaper.

    Jamaicans are hailing her as the next Olympic medalist.

    “Brianna Lyston, Class 4 runner from St. Jago is exceptional!" said Jamaica’s education minister Floyd Green. "[I] feel like we going to be calling her name for years to come.”

    Can Brianna go on to become the world's fastest runner?
    ********************************
    Tiffani Greenaway is the wife and mom behind MyMommyVents, a New York city parenting blog. Her tips have been seen on Yahoo Parenting, Mommy Noire, and Fit Pregnancy. Find more of Tiffani's work at mymommyvents.com.

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    by Mary Wolff

    For any type of hair, hair accessories are a part of the routine. For curlies, it can be fun to introduce a new hair accessory into the mix. One of the easiest accessories to add in is headbands. They are great for keeping hair out of your face and come in many options. How do you know which ones are best for you? Here is a list of the 10 best headbands for curly hair!

    Continue Reading


    1. Natural Life Boho Wrap
    This is a headband that is versatile. You can use it as a headband, a hair tie, a wrap, or even a bracelet. It is made of rayon fabric and free from elastic so it won’t pull on hair or cause any damage. It is available in several cute colors as an added bonus! Find it here.

    2. Loza Tam Pink Plaid African Print Headband
    For a headband that is guaranteed to eliminate friction, this pretty and feminine option is perfect. The interior of the headband is lined with satin to protect hair from friction. It is a little bit on the thicker side so it is great for creating pineapple styles or days when you want a little more coverage. Check it out here.

    3. Sweaty Bands 
    When you need to work out without worrying about your hair, Sweaty Bands are a trusted option. These accessories are made with moisture wicking materials to keep you dry while working out. They offer a great hold with a focus on no-slip performance. Best of all, they are available in a ton of colors. Check it out here.

    4. Scunci Bendable Headband 
    Something that makes some curlies stay away from headbands is the possibility of damage. If you are using headbands with teeth, it can be a concern. With this headband, there are no teeth. You get a slightly better hold than what a material based headband would give with this flexible yet hard headband. It is only available in one color, but it is a good go-to headband to keep around and it’s affordable! It may be too tight for wash-n-go styles, but it's a great option for buns and puffs. Find it here.

    5. Under Armor’s Women's Perfect Headband
    This is another option perfect for a sweat session at the gym. This is one of the most trusted brands in athletic apparel and their headbands are just as high-performing. The design is a soft material style that won’t tug at hair and features specially designed rivets for a good hold. It is also super stretchy. Shop for it here.

    6. Infinity Headbands
    When you want a headband that is more on the pretty side than the practical side, Infinity headbands are perfect. They are available in a variety of stylish options. The designs are made with colored beads that are carefully sewn onto the headbands. The bands themselves are fabric with an elastic backing to give good hold while adding beauty to your look. Find them here.

    7. Dazzle Headband Hair Piece by Especially Yours
    This is a headband with a twist. It is a hair piece that slides on like any headband but can instantly give you a new look. Especially Yours has several to choose from so you can achieve a range of looks with their headbands. See for yourself here.

    8. Nike Swoosh Sport Hairband
    For a quick fix to keep hair out of your face, this headband offers great hold without teeth. It is smaller than other options mentioned so it is great for keeping thinner hair types pulled back. They feature the Nike logo at the front and come in a variety of fun colors. Find them here.

    9. Fromm Leather Headbands
    This headband gives a sleek, modern look with carefully treated leather in various color choices. It has adjustable elastic so you can always get the right fit for you and offers a no-slip grip without teeth to eliminate any damage. Check it out here.

    10. Pink Pewter Turquoise Beaded Ribbon Head Wrap
    A truly feminine touch, this headband brings beauty to any style. It has a comfortable fit that will fit most people and it is hand embroidered for added detail. See for yourself here.


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