Exotic Mommies' Pregnancy and Parenting

Will be away...

2010-05-18T18:35:00.000-04:00

Hello all,
I haven't posted in a while and I won't be posting for a good while, due to the fact that me and my family are moving to Turkey. My husband is in the military. I have been busy with getting ready to go, and pretty soon we will be packing up to have everything shipped. Then we will be going home to visit family, then we'll be heading over right after that. So I won't have my own internet access like I do now. If I am not able to respond to emails, it is because I am to busy to do so.

Thank you for your patience.

© Exotic Mommies Pregnancy and Parenting

LCL Beauty NEW steamer Review.

2010-03-02T19:33:00.000-05:00

Hello,
I know I haven't posted in a while. Life has been keeping me busy. I cannot wait until the girls are older, yet at the same time I can. I am enjoying them so much at these ages, but sometimes I want them to be bigger so I can have more me time. It's a lot to have 3 small children depending on you for everything.

That brings me to my review today. My steaming is my me time. A while back I blogged about how much I loved my steamer that I got from LCL Beauty (formerly Salons R Us) here. They loved my review so much that they extended a coupon to all my readers here. I was so ecstatic that I told everyone and they mama (I really did). So after everyone and they mama bought a steamer (they really did). LCL Beauty decided to go ahead and send me their newest steamer for FREE! I was so happy! All they asked for in return was a honest review. They make the steamers themselves, so they are always trying to find ways to make it better.

So as you can see from the image, they changed the color to black for a sleek new look, and also the way the steaming compartment is made general. I love the new color, so that was 1 point already. They put the water holder on the bottom rather than on the top like the original. I found that personally to be better, because it was a bit much, in the original steamer, that you would have to hurry up and turn the jug over and stick it in the hole before water wasted everywhere (which is what happened the first time I used it). That was not a big deal, but at the same time, I am glad I don't have to do it anymore. Having it at the bottom is also suppose to make it easier for you clean the metal heating unit. Another point there for improvement.

Another change that was made is the button. There is only one button now. So there will be no more confusion on which button was hotter and etc. I personally would forget sometimes which was hotter, and since I hated the lower setting (sorry but it barely steamed anything) and would just press both. LOL. It has an Professional Strength of 620w for maximum steam output. And a 30 minute auto-shutoff silent timer with no annoying ticking sounds. I also believe it doesn't take as long to for the steam to start either. I am not sure, haven't compared yet. So more points for improvement there. Another thing that I love is that they got rid of the metal bar in the hood. I like to stick my hands up in my hair as I am steaming. And I would get burnt by it whenever I forgot about it. Not bad enough to do any damage, but enough for me to snatch my hand outta there real quick. LOL. So more points for improvement. And last but not least. With this new steamer you can use TAP WATER. I know a lot of people are estactic about that. I am too, yet at the same time. The water over here is so bad (supposed to one the worst in the country) that I think I will stick with distilled. Unless someone tells me there is some type of automatic filter. The water here is so bad, that if I want healthy hair I HAVE (no choice) to use a shower filter. So I am not taking any chances. But if I was back home in Miami, it would be tap water all they way.

So all in all I love the new steamer, it has been improved noticably. And I will stick with this and give the other to a friend (but then again DH loves and uses the original still, so we'll see.)

Five stars all the way

© Exotic Mommies Pregnancy and Parenting

Some Health and Beauty Inspiration: Ernestine Shepherd

2010-01-23T22:12:00.000-05:00

I haven' t been posting, because things have been so hectic for me. I just don't have the time. Plus I am trying to focus on myself for once. Ladies of color, I hope this video inspires you like it inspires me. Look at how fab we could look even at 72! Living healthy and exercise is all we need!

72-yr-old Ernestine Shepherd runs 80 miles a week and helps seniors live fit.

© Exotic Mommies Pregnancy and Parenting

In Loving Memory Of Denise Farley

2009-11-13T18:24:00.000-05:00

My mother in law has passed. Please keep my husband and the family in prayer.

Rest in peace Denise.

Thanks and God Bless.

© Hipe Hope Urban Gospel

© Exotic Mommies Pregnancy and Parenting

Back... but really busy

2009-11-06T22:49:00.002-05:00

Hello All,
I am back but I am really busy with work. I hope to get back to posting soon. But as of now money is tight, and I need to work, plus I am busy with the girls.

Hugs!

© Exotic Mommies Pregnancy and Parenting

A message from me: Will be away

2009-10-02T22:36:00.000-04:00

Due to a family emergency we will be unavailable until further notice.

Thank You.

© Exotic Mommies Pregnancy and Parenting

Laugh and Learn :: About Newborn Baby Care

2009-09-03T03:13:00.006-04:00

Hello all, it has been a long time coming but I am back with my next review from the Laugh and Learn DVD Collection. I just had my baby about a month and a half ago. She came earlier then planned. So she was pretty small at birth. About now she is the size of a brand new, newborn (does that make sense). So this video was again timed perfectly for me. And I swear this wasn't planned. The ladies who sent me the videos had no idea I was pregnant, nor when I was due.

Now on to the review...

First I will go ahead and give a little background on the Instructor. Sherry Bayles RN, is an award winning Certified Lamaze Instructor, and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. She is also is the CEO and spokeswoman for the best-selling DVD series LAUGH AND LEARN ABOUT CHILDBIRTH, ABOUT NEWBORN BABY CARE and ABOUT BREASTFEEDING. As a Mom, and a nurse, and a well-respected female entrepreneur in the world of childbirth education, Sheri understands the busy world of parenting these days.

The Laugh and Learn About Newborn Baby Care DVD has 6 easy to watch lessons. The lessons cover the sponge bath, diaper change and dressing a newborn, swaddling, the tub bath, diaper change and dressing a 3 month old, and baby supplies you need. There are real couples in the video as this is a real class and Sherry is demonstrating all that she is teaching with a newborn.

Once again Sherry's fun personality is on display, yet she is still being informative. She is very detailed in the info she gives. And she always explains why certain things are done a certain way. For example when washing the baby's eye. She explains that you should clean each eye with a different cotton ball, so that any infection in one eye won't be spread to the other. There were a lot of things that even I, a mother to three girls was able to learn. This video is perfect for new mothers who want to know all the best ways to care for their newborn, and for those who may be a little intimidated at the thought of caring for a newborn.

I again highly recommend this DVD collection, to all new mothers, and mothers to be. And even to mothers pregnant with 2nd or more, who want to learn more on the best ways to take care of their newborn.

At the end of my series posts on the Laugh Learn DVD collection. We will be having a contest/giveaway. Where one lucky reader will be able to win a free copy of the series.

So make sure to stay tuned.

© Exotic Mommies Pregnancy and Parenting

$10 Dollar Discont off hair steamer at www.LCLBeauty.com!

2009-08-04T16:30:00.011-04:00

If any can recall, a while back I did a review in which I raved about my hair steamer which I purchased from Salons R Us. If not you can read it here. Well Salons R Us has decided to extend a special offer to all of my readers. Any reader can browse the site www.LCLBeauty.com and should you choose to order a Hair Steamer, upon checkout you can enter the coupon code “exoticmommies” in the appropriate field, and you will receive an immediate $10 discount on the purchase of your Brand New Hair Steamer.

Screenshot:

Make sure to spread the word on this. I highly, I mean HIGHLY recommend a hair steamer for those of you on your healthy hair journey. Whether you be Relaxed or Natural. This really helps in the health of your hair especially if where you live is either dry or has other not so good weather conditions . Plus it helps you hair absorb your deep conditioners, hot oil treatments and etc, to the maximum. You won't regret it!

Offer is good indefnitely.

If you want to show appreciation please become a follower.

© Exotic Mommies Pregnancy and Parenting

Been away, had the baby.

2009-07-31T12:39:00.003-04:00

Hello All!
Please bear with me while I catch up. We recently added a new addition to the family. So that is why I have been missing for the last few weeks. If you emailed us we will get back with you as soon as possible. I am still recovering, and I still have more posts to add, and still have reviews to do. I will be doing them slowly but surely. I do apologize for any inconvenience

Thanks to all and God Bless!

Laugh and Learn :: About Childbirth

2009-07-17T02:49:00.008-04:00

Hello all, this is my first post that will be one in three posts dedicated to the Laugh and Learn DVD collection. I was very happy when I was offered a chance to do a review on these DVD's. I am currently 34 weeks pregnant so the timing could not be better. Add to the fact that with every pregnancy I have been either on full or semi bed rest and have never been able to attend a childbirth class. So I finally was able to do so.

First I will go ahead and give a little background on the Instructor. Sherry Bayles RN, is an award winning Certified Lamaze Instructor, and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. She is also is the CEO and spokeswoman for the best-selling DVD series LAUGH AND LEARN ABOUT CHILDBIRTH, ABOUT NEWBORN BABY CARE and ABOUT BREASTFEEDING. As a Mom, and a nurse, and a well-respected female entrepreneur in the world of childbirth education, Sheri understands the busy world of parenting these days.

The Laugh and Learn About Child Birth DVD is a two disc set. There are 6 segments. The segments cover anatomy and signs of labor, breathing techniques, labor and comfort measures, delivery and pushing, medications used during labor, induction, cesarean deliveries, and postpartum vaginal delivery. There are real couples in the video as this is a real class and at the end of each segment Sherry goes over some of the things discussed, and allows questions to be asked. The couples ask some good questions and there's even an update with these couples at the end of the video.

Sherry is truly hilarious and has no problem with using physical comedy. She also uses real life scenarios (stories from work and her own personal experiences) to help you understand. She is very informative and explains at lot of things like why certain procedures are done during the birth process and what/why your body is doing certain things, which helps to makes sense of things. All the while still being very humorous along the way yet still being very informative, so you will never get bored. Her teachings are very mother centered, as in being more supportive to the mother, and for the women to trust their body. And to allow the mother more freedom during labor. She also goes over the pros and cons of medications. The information is also more update as to what is currently being taught in birthing schools. For me what was an eye opener are that some things are still being practiced in hospitals that are basically old fashioned birthing techniques and beliefs. Which have no benefit to mother and baby. I learned so much and I am one who has researched and read pregnancy books and etc. She is able to break down the usual scientific and boring language and put it in plain English.

I definitely recommend Laugh and Learn About Childbirth video for first time and non first time mothers. Especially if you are not a reader, or find a lot of the language used when reading boring or non understandable. It's also great for mothers on the go who won't or don't have time to go to an actual class. I am pretty sure that the classes that I would have taken at my hospital would not have even been half as entertaining. The video will surely have your attention from beginning to end.

At the end of my series posts on the Laugh Learn DVD collection (and most likely after I have the baby). We will be having a contest/giveaway. Where one lucky reader will be able to win a free copy of the series.

So make sure to stay tuned.

www.laughandlearn.com

© Exotic Mommies Pregnancy and Parenting

Campers sent packing after first visit to swim club

2009-07-08T14:36:00.011-04:00

Pool Boots Kids Who Might "Change the Complexion"

By KAREN ARAIZA

More than 60 campers from Northeast Philadelphia were turned away from a private swim club and left to wonder if their race was the reason.

Kids at Creative Steps Day Camp were thrilled to go swimming once a week at the Valley Swim Club. But after only one trip to the private club, they were...

"I heard this lady, she was like, 'Uh, what are all these black kids doing here?' She's like, 'I'm scared they might do something to my child,'" said camper Dymire Baylor.

The Creative Steps Day Camp paid more than $1900 to The Valley Swim Club. The Valley Swim Club is a private club that advertises open membership. But the campers' first visit to the pool suggested otherwise.

"When the minority children got in the pool all of the Caucasian children immediately exited the pool," Horace Gibson, parent of a day camp child, wrote in an email. "The pool attendants came and told the black children that they did not allow minorities in the club and needed the children to leave immediately."

The next day the club told the camp director that the camp's membership was being suspended and their money would be refunded.

"I said, 'The parents don't want the refund. They want a place for their children to swim,'" camp director Aetha Wright said.

Campers remain unsure why they're no longer welcome.

"They just kicked us out. And we were about to go. Had our swim things and everything," said camper Simer Burwell.

The explanation they got was either dishearteningly honest or poorly worded.

"There was concern that a lot of kids would change the complexion … and the atmosphere of the club," John Duesler, President of The Valley Swim Club said in a statement.

While the parents await an apology, the camp is scrambling to find a new place for the kids to beat the summer heat.

Source

Happy Fourth of July!

2009-07-04T21:54:00.000-04:00

Trailer :: Happily Ever After :: A Positive Look At Black Marriage

2009-06-15T13:05:00.003-04:00

From the creators of the award winning website Black and Married With Kids.com comes a ground breaking documentary set to challenge negative stereotypes surrounding marriage and parenting in the black community.

Couples and experts discuss topics such as the image and portrayal of black marriages and families, the effect the Obamas will have on marriage in the black community and the importance of parenting.

Release date: July 2009

www.happilyeverafterthemovie.com

Teaser trailer for Tyler Perry's I Can Do Bad All By Myself.

2009-05-29T13:35:00.001-04:00

Based on the first of Perry's plays to feature his Madea character, film follows what happens when Perry's iconic Madea character discovers a 16-year-old girl (Hope Wilson) and her brothers looting her home and sends them to live with their Aunt April (Taraji P. Henson), a hard-drinking nightclub singer.

Knight will play Wilma, a kind of matriarch of the neighborhood and singer at Marshall Baptist Church, where Madea (Perry) also circulates.

Happy Memorial Day

2009-05-25T15:03:00.001-04:00

Comments - Graphics - Layouts - Photobucket

Children :: Styling :: Curly Twist Out

2009-05-21T20:47:00.002-04:00

Hello again,
So I decided to go ahead and share how I do curly twists outs on my daughters hair. I wanted to have a way to have her natural hair be curly yet neat, and still have some length to it. So for me, this is perfect. I am going to be very detailed in my tutorial and there will be many pictures. The beginning steps can also be used for what they call shingling. Basically just letting it be curly. I would only recommend you do this for the day of. Most children are wild sleepers and this style will be messed up by the morning. With the twist out you can set it and let them go to sleep with a cap on and take it down in the morning/next day.

What you will need:

Curly Pudding (this is my homemade version) You can get either Miss Jessie's or Kinky-Curly's.

Kids Organics Soft Hold Styling Pomade & Hairdress

A Rat Tail Comb

A pick comb or any wide tooth Comb

Prong Clips

A spray bottle of Distelled Water

This is best done on clean and freshly washed hair. I also deep condition, and put on a leave in conditioner. My Daughters hair is 3c and very very thick so this method as I mentioned earlier is best for us. My hair is much thinner and relaxed so I use a curly custard that I made for me. It is much lighter yet still has a nice soft hold to it. I will one day share both mixtures.

Now on to it...

Hair with just the leave in.

I don't have to really detangle her hair because my curly pudding has some detangler lotion in it, so it detangles as I put in and go along. If you need to detangle go ahead and do so now.

Next section the hair.

Clip the rest and go ahead and comb pudding through with rat tail comb. (her hair with pudding curled through).

Next apply the pomade, smoothing it down the hair to basically seal it in and add some extra, yet soft hold. Focusing on the roots to flatten it, and the ends to make the curls pop. And then twist the hair, placing a rubber band at the end but leaving out some curls at the end.

Next add the clips to the roots to flatten them and leave them in as you style, by the time you are done and take them out they should be flat and smooth.

and just keep going, spray with water as needed for any dryness, this helps to also cut down on product usage...

Finished hair with clips taken out. I did a flat twist for her bangs.

The next day you take the hair down. I like to use a dime sized amount melted shea butter and rub it all over her hair as I take it out, this helps to cut down on frizziness.

Next you take your wide tooth comb and just pick through the roots to hide the parts. Do not comb the curls...

And you are done, go ahead and add any cute clips or bows,

Africa's Best Kids Organic :: Shea Butter Detangling Moisturizing Hair Lotion

2009-05-19T23:51:00.009-04:00

Description

Instantly removes tangles.
Prevents breakage.
Restores moisture.
Softens & conditions organically.
Detangle and moisturize at the same time!
Kids Organics Shea Butter Detangling Moisturizing Hair Lotion allows for easy, tangle free combing, while restoring a healthy moisture balance.
Formulated with shea butter for extra shine and softening, Kids Organics Shea Butter Detangling Moisturizing Hair Lotion is deep penetrating and helps to prevent breakage.
Gentle enough for daily use and is an excellent therapy for all hair types.
Contains no petrolatum or mineral oil.
Made in USA.

Ingredients: Water , Propylene Glycol , Polyquaternium-37 , Propylene Glycol , Dicaprylate/Dicaprate , PPG-1 Trideceth-6 , PEG 150 Distearate , Soybean Oil , Cetyl Alcohol , Glycerin , Phenyltrimethicone , Acrylamidopropyltrimonium Chloride/Acrylamide Copo , Methylparaben , Propylparaben , Hydrolyzed Soy Protein , Milk Protein , Cholesterol , Honey , Silk Amino Acids , Corn Oil , BHA , BHT , Coconut Oil , Carthamus Tinctorius Seed Oil Safflower , Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract Rosemary , Urtica Dioica Extract Nettle , Equisetum Hyemale Extract Horsetail , Stearalkonium Chloride , Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil , Cocoa Butter , Shea Butter , Glyceryl Stearate , PEG-100 Stearate , Cyclomethicone , Carrot Oil , Fragrance , Dye , DMDM Hydantoin

My Review:
I heard about this product on the long hair care forum, and decided to give it a try for my daughters. My daughters have curly ringlet (3c type for the hair gurus) hair, which they get from their father, LOL.

My eldest daughter's hair is very, very thick. I had been trying to find a good moisturizer that would bring out her beautiful curls and be moisturizing. Where we live now is very dry and I would have to pile on tons of moisturizer to get it moist and manageable. Which to me was beginning to become a chore because of all the oil and mess involved. I have tried several products and most were OK, to some being down right awful. I have large bottle of a product I will not name, that I refuse to use (waste of 5 bucks). As it left white residue all over her hair. It just would not penetrate her hair. Aside from that it did an OK job at first but dried out soon after during the day.

Well I am so happy to say I found a product that is perfect for her and her sisters hair. Their hair is so soft and so moisturized. And I don't have to pile it on. It absorbs right into their hair. Since it is a detangler as well, it is very easy on her head, the comb slides right through. This is great for my 1 year old, who gets aggravated real quick. I am able to do her hair with no problems now. I have also added this to my homemade curly pudding mixture that I made for my eldest daughter. Which I will one day share. And you can see it at work in there too. So unless there is a better product out there that I don't know of (feel free to let me know one).

This gets a 5 out of 5 in my book.

Precious Movie Trailer

2009-05-13T23:46:00.002-04:00

Lee Daniels's Precious: Based on the Novel "Push" by Sapphire is a vibrant, honest and resoundingly hopeful film about the human capacity to grow and overcome.

Set in Harlem in 1987, it is the story of Claireece "Precious" Jones (Gabourey Sidibe), a sixteen-year-old African-American girl born into a life no one would want. She's pregnant for the second time by her absent father; at home, she must wait hand and foot on her mother (Mo'Nique), a poisonously angry woman who abuses her emotionally and physically. School is a place of chaos, and Precious has reached the ninth grade with good marks and an awful secret: she can neither read nor write.

Precious may sometimes be down, but she is never out. Beneath her impassive expression is a watchful, curious young woman with an inchoate but unshakeable sense that other possibilities exist for her. Threatened with expulsion, Precious is offered the chance to transfer to an alternative school, Each One/Teach One. Precious doesn’t know the meaning of "alternative," but her instincts tell her this is the chance she has been waiting for. In the literacy workshop taught by the patient yet firm Ms. Rain (Paula Patton), Precious begins a journey that will lead her from darkness, pain and powerlessness to light, love and self-determination.

The film is expected to be released nationwide on November 6, 2009.

NEW LOOK!

2009-05-13T21:08:00.003-04:00

Exotic Mommies Has got a new look, please let me know what you think. You can see more designs from me at Divalicious Designs.

So please excuse my clutter as I organize.

Thanks!

Frog Princess Trailer

2009-05-11T21:28:00.001-04:00

Happy Mothers Day!

2009-05-10T17:11:00.002-04:00

Hope you have a great day, and that you get treated for all your hard work. God Bless!

Toys to Stimulate Development

2009-05-08T03:46:00.000-04:00

After you introduce your newborn to the new home, it’s never too early to put together a toy collection for them to interact with on a regular basis. By incorporating a few toys into your baby’s day-to-day routine, your young children will be able to develop their visual, motor, and intellectual skills at a much faster rate. Before you enter into the toy market, think about all of the places where you spend quality time with your newborn or young toddler and how an interactive toy can help with their development. Introducing a crib mobile to your son or daughter’s baby furniture collection or adding a fun car seat accessory is sure to keep your kids entertained throughout the day.

Since babies spend a large amount of their day in the crib, it’s a great idea to add a colorful mobile that features plush animals and a soft song that will help ease your children to sleep. Not only will the variety of the mobile accessories’ size, shape, and colors keep your newborn entertained but they will also provide visual and audio stimulation for your child. When installing a mobile above your baby’s crib, be sure to keep any cords or moving parts away from your children’s reach in order to provide the safest environment possible.

Motor and verbal skills can easily be developed through a safe and interactive play set that features music, lights, and an assortment of buttons or games for your children to play with. During the first year of your baby’s life, a reflective surface like an unbreakable mirror proves to be one of their favorite toys. At this age, they can begin to recognize faces and focus on a number of different images as they develop their visual skills over time. When you’re looking to find the perfect play set for your toddler, focus on bright colors in order to provide a creative space and enhance your child’s imagination.

Funny Throw Back :: I'm Black y'all

2009-04-25T16:22:00.002-04:00

Remember this! I was on my favorite black hair care forums, and browsing through the threads . In one, race came up. It basically asked what is you ethnic/racial make up. This was one's girls response, and I just found it hilarious.

PZI Skinny Jeans :: Review

2009-03-31T15:42:00.004-04:00

“PZI Jeans was one of the first denim lines to develop a Skinny Jean for curvy women, we have taken it a step further to offer an entire collection of PZI Skinny Jeans, designed especially to meet the fit challenges of curvy women,” explains PZI Jeans Co-Founder and Vice President, Claire Jason.PZI Jeans tested their fit on various models, then fine tuned their fit, adding more fabric in the hips and rear and that special PZI Jeans tapered waist. "We finally had a Skinny Jean that really fits the not so skinny curvy woman! We were very surprised at our customers’ reaction and cannot begin to tell you how fast our PZI Skinny Jean flew off our store’s shelves!” explains Jason.

PZI Jeans has definitely mastered the science behind fitting the curvy woman with all of their denim products. As far as the wildly popular Skinny Jeans are concerned, PZI Jeans is currently offering many different styles and colors of Skinny Jeans for curvy women, including the Curve Skinny, The Lindsay Skinny, The Victoria Skinny, The Classic Skinny, The Black Jet Skinny, The Buckle Skinny, The Annie Hall Skinny, The Pewter Skinny, The Olivia Skinny and the Sky Ankle Skinny. PZI Jeans also has priced their jeans at recession friendly prices everyone appreciates, PZI Skinny Jeans retail at 69.00-79.00.

“The industry said curvy women should never wear Skinny Jeans or they would look like an ice cream cone, so many lines did not offer a Skinny Jean for curvy women. Initially we did not offer our customer the Skinny Jean either. But, our customers kept asking for the Skinny Jean. So we started researching, studied and developed the perfect Skinny Jean for curvy women,” explains Jason.

Although PZI Jeans designers constantly follow fashion trends they do not take everything written in the media about what a curvy woman should or should not wear to heart. “The curvy woman’s concept of her fashion style is misunderstood by a many in the fashion media, the success of our PZI Skinny Jeans is proof of this fact,” says Jason.

About PZI Jeans

Atlanta , Georgia based PZI Jeans was founded in 2002 by Atlanta Attorney, Daniel C. Jason and his wife, Claire Jason, also an Attorney. PZI Jeans was recently tapped by Inc. Magazine as

one of the fastest growing private companies in America. An accolade shared by companies as notable as Microsoft and Oracle.

PZI Jeans are available in sizes 4-16 with short, regular, long and extra-long lengths/inseams so that women short and tall can buy her jeans off the rack with no more costly alterations.

PZI Jeans are available at select Macy's Stores and over 600 retail stores in the United States and overseas with plans to expand into South America. For more information about PZI Jeans, log on to www.pzijeans.com.

What I Say:
I must say these jeans are hot, they fit me so well, I have to admit since I am pregnant, I could not zip them up completely when I first got them. I have swelled up considerable since then so I can't where them at all now. But I definitely recommend them. They fit my curves and hugged them, and accentuated them. I am glad that there are some skinny jeans for women with curves.

American Violet - Official Trailer

2009-03-06T21:45:00.001-05:00

Based on true events in the midst of the 2000 election, AMERICAN VIOLET tells the astonishing story of Dee Roberts (critically hailed newcomer Nicole Beharie), a 24 year-old African American single mother of four young girls living in a small Texas town who is barely making ends meet on a waitress salary and government subsidies.

On an early November morning while Dee works a shift at the local diner, the powerful local district attorney (Academy Award® nominee Michael OKeefe) leads an extensive drug bust, sweeping her Arlington Springs housing project with military precision. Police drag Dee from work in handcuffs, dumping her in the squalor of the womens county prison. Indicted based on the uncorroborated word of a single and dubious police informant facing his own drug charges, Dee soon discovers she has been charged as a drug dealer.

Even though Dee has no prior drug record and no drugs were found on her in the raid or any subsequent searches, she is offered a hellish choice: plead guilty and go home as a convicted felon or remain in prison and fight the charges thus, jeopardizing her custody and risking a long prison sentence.

Despite the urgings of her mother (Academy Award® nominee Alfre Woodard), and with her freedom and the custody of her children at stake, she chooses to fight the district attorney and the unyielding criminal justice system he represents. Joined in an unlikely alliance with an ACLU attorney (Tim Blake Nelson) and former local narcotics officer (Will Patton), Dee risks everything in a battle that forever changes her life and the Texas justice system. AMERICAN VIOLET also stars Emmy Award® winner Charles S. Dutton and Xzibit.

For more information - http://www.americanviolet.com/

PFC. LaVena Johnson

2009-03-05T13:27:00.005-05:00

Raped and Murdered on a Military Base in Iraq

This is really off subject for me and this blog, but I read this story, and with me having been in the military, I was supposed to be sent to Iraq, but I got out before then. This story has personally touched me and my heart and it bothers me to my core. If this story does the same for you then please post it to help get the word out. The story has had no real media coverage because the victim of course is black...

By David A. Love, The Black Commentator. Posted March 3, 2009.

Have you heard the story about LaVena Johnson?

LaVena Johnson, a high school honor student, decided to enlist in the Army to pay for college. On July 19, 2005, after serving eight weeks in Iraq, she was killed, eight days short of her 20th birthday.

Pvt. Johnson -- she was posthumously promoted to private first class -- was found dead on a military base in Balad, Iraq, in a tent belonging to military contractor KBR, a spinoff and former subsidiary of Halliburton, Dick Cheney's company. She was the first woman from Missouri to be killed in Iraq or Afghanistan.

The U.S. Army officially ruled her death a suicide, saying she shot herself in the head, case closed. But this is where the story begins.

Johnson's family knew something was wrong. They had talked to her on the phone a few days earlier, and she was in a great mood as usual, and was planning to come home for the holidays, earlier than expected.

Questions were raised when Johnson's family viewed her body. There were suspicious bruises, and while the military claimed that this right-handed soldier had shot herself in the head with an M-16 rifle, the gunshot wound was on the left side of her head.

But the truth began to make itself known when the family received the autopsy report and photos they had requested under the Freedom of Information Act:

The 5-foot tall, 100-pound woman had been struck in the face with a blunt instrument, probably a weapon. Her nose had been broken, and her teeth knocked back. There were bruises, teeth marks and scratches on the upper part of her body. Her back and right hand had been doused with a flammable liquid and set on fire. Her genital area was bruised and lacerated, and lye had been poured into her vagina. The debris found on her suggested her body had been dragged.

And despite all this mutilation, she was fully clothed when her body was found in the tent, with a blood trail leading to the tent.

Despite the overwhelming evidence, the Army has refused to investigate. Through an online petition, ColorofChange.org demanded an investigation by the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.

Johnson's story is really several stories in one, and is about more than an individual Black woman who was raped and killed by her fellow soldiers. African Americans have fought in every war since the Revolutionary War, and often their country has been a far more formidable foe to them than the so-called enemy they were told to fight.

Often, youth of color, lacking opportunities at home and in need of money, look to the military as a career option and a way to pay for school. But in light of all the death and destruction of the unjust and immoral war in Iraq, fewer of them took the bait this time, and opposition to the war among Black youth has posed a challenge for Army recruiters.

To Read More...

www.lavenajohnson.com

Dr. Bronners Review

2009-02-22T14:49:00.009-05:00

Today I will be doing a review on Dr. Bronners. I first found about Dr. Bronners on Keep it Simple Sista. I at the time was desperate to find an affordable, natural and Sulfate free shampoo. As mentioned in a previous post. It is extremely dry here, and we have pretty hard water on top of that. So for me most of the shampoos, even the ones that were supposed to be really good and moisturizing were not doing it for me. I really really got tired of washing my hair, and then basically spending like a week having to put moisture in it, just to be due for another wash, which I was beginning to dread. So for a while I was just co-washing. But yet I could tell my hair needed a real wash to clear out the product residue. Tracyee at K.I.S.S did a review on the soap, and put a recipe together to make your own organic shampoo. You can find the review here and the actual making of the shampoo video here.

For my mixture since I couldn't find a large bottle like Traycee, (and since I don't have as much hair, yet... I don't need one, but for you long hair women you will.) I used a 6oz. bottle from Sally's.

I Added 1 ounce of my favorite oils mix
Then added 1 ounce of the Dr. Bronners Magic Soap Peppermint
Shook it well.
When u shake the two together it becomes creamy
Then I filled up the rest of the bottle with the purified water
Shook again

Adjust as wanted...

I personally love this, my hair is never over stripped, it's soft, and it feels clean but not that harsh squeaky clean. Even my husband uses the shampoo mix. He loves it and he usually doesn't even care to wash his hair, because he hates how it dry his hair gets. But he definitely has noticed the difference. Another reason I love it is because it is affordable, and helps me to save money. This will definitely last me a long time.

I also purchased the Lavender body wash with Shikakai and I love that as well. My skin feel so soft and clean after I get out of the shower. For me the peppermint that I use for my shampoo is too strong for my senses, and can't imagine using that on my whole body. So this is perfect, and I love the hint of grape smell. It smells wonderful. And it's also great for babies.

I do plan on purchasing and trying different things in the future. To see what is best for me. If I find other great things I will make sure to let you know.

Thermostat Salon Hair Steamer

2009-02-16T02:06:00.009-05:00

Hello Ladies,
today I am doing my review for my new hair steamer. After going to many hair forums and other black hair care blogs and sites. I decided to go ahead and invest in a steamer. Needless to say I was very nervous and excited at the same time.

I purchased my steamer from Salon R Us , but I purchased it on ebay, because I had a coupon that needed to be used (I literally had one day left to use it). So it went from $139.99 to 129.99 and the shipping was free. And they shipped it so fast as well. To me it was a pretty good sign that I was making the right choice.

I am originally from Miami, but now reside in New Mexico, which is really dry, and since it is really cold now (and it snows here as well). The weather on top of my pregnancy has been pretty rough on my hair. My hair as with most pregnant women is really really thick right now. And it is also really dry. I have been trying to stretch my perms, and I was really desperate because I heard that the steamers really help in softening your new growth. Before the pregnancy I was doing well with stretching for 9-10 weeks. But now I have been struggling to make it through 6.

Well Ladies, this simple machine is a GOD SEND!

On my first try using the steamer I noticed that after air drying my hair, that it was the softest I ever remember it being, specifically since being here in New Mexico. And I hadn't used my moisturizing lotions or oils yet. Later that night I simply moisturized my hair then put on my silk scarf and went to bed. The next morning my hair was straight as if I had styled it with a flat iron before going to bed. My really thick new growth was showing still, but for the first time since the pregnancy it was actually laying down. So to compare later that week on my co-wash day I did not use my steamer just make sure it wasn't a fluke, and my hair was back to it's normal dry unruly self (I swear this is the worst pregnancy hair I ever had). So Saturday for Valentines Day. I did my steam treatment again, and this time followed it with my GVP flat iron. My hair was so shiny and soft even my dear hubby commented on it, and kept touching it. So that night I moisturized and did a sloppy wrap (sorry but I am tired) and put my silk scarf on. This morning my hair was even straighter and softer than yesterday. It's very obvious that the steamer opens your hair cuticles and makes it more receptive to moisturizers, and it's not just while you under the steamer. But for me it lasts more than a day. I am still trying to see how long. But I know for the rest of this pregnancy no more washes without my steamer.

There was a big debate on one forum I went to about whether to use a plastic cap or not, my logic was that it would be more effective without one. And the lady who won the debate, who was a professional hair stylist, thought so as well. I would definitely recommend that if you decide not to use a cap, that you buy an Elastic Spa Band which you can find at Sallys. Because the water from the steam will be rolling down your forhead. I put mine right on my hairline.

Update: I have come to the conclusion that the steaming effects last until you wash it. I was also having a problem with breakage and shedding and I have noticed since using the steamer I no longer have this problem. So this is definitely a permanent staple in my regimen.

Also there are two settings on the steamer I for low steam and II for high steam.

For info on the discount extended to my readers click here.

How to clean:
At least once a month use quart cup of vinegar, fill rest with water and let it run. then fill it with reg water and let it run to get vinegar smell out.

Happy Valentines Day

2009-02-14T15:59:00.003-05:00

Have a Happy Valentines Day.

Going to be doing some reviews and etc.

2009-02-10T00:41:00.007-05:00

I know it's been a while since I posted, I am pregnant again, currently about 3 months along. I have been dealing with some very bad Morning Sickness. I've only been able to do my blog designs for Divalicious Designs. And I have been posting my Dear Husbands reviews on Hipe Hope. But things are getting better, and hopefully with this pregnancy I won't be on strict bedrest later on. Keeping that in prayer.

I plan on doing some beauty reviews in the future. I have been obsessed with hair and beauty blogs and trying out new things. I love to look good while pregnant, I want people to look at me and think, dang no wonder he knocked her up, again... LOL.

So my fellow blogger sista Traycee at K.I.S.S, hip me to Dr. Bonner, will do a review on that. I just recently bought me a hair steamer for $130, so far I loves it, will do a review on that. And some others things I can't think of now.

I also hope to one day revamp my blog design, so stay tuned.

Thanks.

Bumkins Review

2008-11-24T17:12:00.001-05:00

As a member of the Mom Bloggers Club I was recently privelaged to review the new Bumkins Dr. Seuss Coverall. Which is part of Bumkins Dr. Seuss Nursery line, these comfortable, loose fitting Seuss-suits are made of premium cotton interlock. Featuring the adorable characters Thing One and Thing Two and classic Cat-In-The-Hat stripe print, these coveralls come complete with Seuss logo snaps for easy dressing and feature adorable back pocket details! Priced at $24.99, I must say that I was very pleased with the Bumkins Dr. Seuss Coverall. Not only was it cute but it was obviously real comfy for my darling. And it was nice and strechy too. She went right to sleep in it after I gave her a bath. I will share some pictures of her later. Overall I really loved the coverall and plan on using it alot this winter.

Bumkins will also be hosting a contest/giveaway. The Bumkins Grinchmas Gift and Contest! With any Bumkins Dr. Seuss Purchase receive Free Grinch Superbib and automatically be entered to win a four pack of Dr.Seuss How the Grinch Stole Christmas Ornaments! Just enter grinch08 at checkout to receive your complimentary bib.

So make sure to check it out.

Thanks

www.bumkins.com

Bugaloo Leather Baby Shoes

2008-10-30T01:18:00.009-04:00

Today's review is on Bugaloo Leather Baby Shoes. I recently received these in the mail and I must say I was very impressed. Not only are they made with very fine workmanship but they are very affordable as well. I went a googling (of course), for leather baby shoes and shopped around the different sites. Most sites wanted $30 or above for their shoes, and as we know times as of late have not been to kind on our wallet. Bugaloo sells their shoes for only $18. Which I really believe is a steal.

I personally have never been one to put those hard shoes on my either of my girls, even though my elders were telling me I should. And that it would help them walk yadda yadda yadda. I was pleased to know that it's recommended by medical experts that these type of shoes are the smart alternative to those restrictive hard soles. Bugaloo with its soft soles and soft elastic bands allow for proper balance and foot development. Which is what I always believed and disagreed with my elders about. I would just rather buy really cute socks. Which was what I was doing until I got my Bugaloo's. If you are a frugal mother like me but don't want to give up quality for affordability. Me and Jazlynn, who thinks they are absolutely tasty by the way, definitely recommend Bugaloo Leather Baby Shoes.

www.bugalookids.com

Pinhole Glasses

2008-08-21T04:08:00.003-04:00

I was recently asked to do a review for a product called Pinhole Glasses. When I saw that the glasses are actually good for your eye site. I said yes to doing the review. Pinhole glasses have been used for years for correcting vision. They do not use lenses to improve your vision they work by feeding the pupil with direct rays as far as possible. Light rays coming at extreme angles require a large amount of refraction by your lens to form the correct image. Pinhole Glasses use the principle of sight to let in only those rays which are capable of forming a clear image on the retina. Consequently, they do not cause the damage that prescription glasses inflict on your eyes.

Wearing pinholes affect your peripheral vision and therefore should not be used when you are driving or while moving about. It also reduces the amount of light entering your eyes and so it cannot be used in environments having dim light. You can use pinhole glasses whenever you are stationary. You can use them while reading or while watching TV, while working on the computer or while watching a movie in a theater. You can also use them in the classroom to see writing on the blackboard more clearly. Pinhole Glasses are especially beneficial to children with myopia. It can prevent the onset of acquired myopia in them.

Pinhole Glasses are a good alternative to lens glasses, especially if you notice that your eyesight seems to be getting worse and worse as time goes on. They are not a complete replacement to lens glasses for people who need to use them all the time (like myself). But they are great for people who only need to use them when reading or in any other stationary position. I was able to see my computer screen very clearly through the glasses. And I would recommend these glasses to people who are on a budget and just need glasses for a small amount of time. My main complaint of the glasses was that I felt that the frame was made of low quality materials. But I do believe you are mainly paying for the technology of the glasses and not the frame. The prices are very low so it is to be expected.

I would like to thank the people at Pinhole-Glasses-Direct.com for allowing me to try and use the glasses. I do plan on continuing to use them. I currently wear contacts, and there are just some days where my contacts are irritating my eyes and I don't really use my lens glasses because they always give me bad headache. And no it's not my prescription, I just can't wear lenses for too long for some reason, I have tried different prescriptions, and the ones that don't give me a headache, I can barely see with. So on those days I pull out my new Pinhole Glasses. So go ahead and visit the site and if you just need some reading glasses and you're worried about your eyesight I highly recommend them.

Thanks.

www.pinhole-glasses-direct.com

The Orginal Belly Works

2008-08-05T04:25:00.003-04:00

One of the big things going on right now with pregnant women and their pregnancy keepsakes is belly sculptures. Well, I would definitely have to recommend Original Belly Works.

Original Belly Works sells pregnant belly casting kits that make a beautiful gift for mom and a unique keepsake for Baby. When you receive your package everything you need is included in a cutely designed paint can (which can also be used for keepsake). You will receive a plastic drop cloth so you don't make a mess on your own floor (one of my major concerns, lol). Vaseline to cover yourself with. Gloves and the plaster material with which all you need is warm water to dip in. No mixing or messing to do. It's so convenient. All you need to supply is an old pair of bra and underwear that you don't care about losing, some scissors, a blow dryer (which I really recommend to speed up the drying process) and someone to help you. The product was so easy to use and I was very satisfied with the finished product. They really make it very easy with all the things they supply to you in the package. And what really makes Original Belly Works so great, is that you have the choice to send it back to them so they can either make a fiberglass form from your cast or decorate it for you to your liking. Of course this is extra but it is very well worth having this precious and beautiful keepsake. If you are interested and want to know more about or want to see more of their Designs. Visit there site.

www.OriginalBellyworks.com

Hello!

2008-07-28T18:14:00.002-04:00

Hello again, it's me, remember me lol. Well I must say since getting off bedrest and having the baby. I have been so busy with trying to catch up and make up for lost time. Since coming back I have added two blog to my repertoire of blogs. As mentioned before one is where I offer Free Blogger Templates. You must check it out, it's very stylish and I have all types of styles.

Then there is my site where I sell premade exclusive templates, Divalicious Designs. The templates are stylish and affordable. And most people say they don't even look like blogs, they look more like websites (which is what I intended). Once things slow down I hope to be able to focus more on this site as well as the forum. I will be doing some product reviews in the near future. These products are for busy moms like me and you. Things that can help us maintain our beauty and healthy, products for moms and moms to be. I personally am always trying to look my best for my husband as well as myself. And I know you are too. So keep checking back for the reviews.

Thanks!

DaRico Jackson: Hair Master

2008-07-15T08:30:00.008-04:00

Behind every gorgeous star is a fabulous hairstylist. I had the incredible privilege of interviewing DaRico Jackson, best known as the Makeover Guru on reality shows such “A Second Look,” “How Do I Look” and “Renovate My Family.” His upbeat personality, warmth and spontaneity set me at ease immediately.

The business of being beautiful for the camera is very hard work. It takes a lot of time to set up each still, video or film shot. It also requires constant hair changes. DaRico is a modern day hair wizard that can instantly transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. At a dizzying speed, he can create a selection of amazing looks that range from the beautiful classic looks, to high fashion and then edgy avant-garde, all in a days work.

Watching DaRico on the set of a photo shoot, he darted back and forth between takes to make sure, with the flick of his wrist, that every strand was just right. He was always prepared to smooth, tuck, brush, spray or twirl celebrity hair as needed. DaRico definitely has fun through his work and it shows in everything he does. Who could have known that he is one of today's hottest celebrity hairstylists? This man is gracious, upbeat and super positive. His celebrity clientele includes Tasha Smith, Michael Ealy, Tichina Arnold, Raven Simone, Paula Abdul, Dawn Robinson, Lorraine Toussaint, Eartha Kitt, Dianne Shur, Tanya Blaunt, Trinity 5:7, and Cherelle.

What is the biggest trend in celebrity hair right now?

Bobs are the trend but now they have varying shapes. There are edgier bobs, bobs with long bangs and razor cut bobs. Each Bob is tailored to the womans facial shape and her lifestyle. The simple classic bob is perfect for women with a round face because it highlights the cheekbones and jawline. If a woman has an active lifestyle I would make her bob one length so no matter what her hair looks clean and polished because she has shape to her hair. Artists usually want something more edgy with random pieces or a razored bang or an assymmetrical bob but these types of cuts a lot more maintenance is required. For actresses I suggest lots of layers to reduce the weight of the hair and to give more versatility. With medium length layered hair, it is easy to change quickly, hair can be curled under at the ends, flipped up or put your hair behind your ear.

What are the most important hair products that you use when working?

Mizani shampoos. They are perfect for ethnic and white hair because they really focus on moisturization of the hair. The Mizani butter blend relaxers are excellent because they use microfusion technology and that means the molecules of the ingredients are small enough to truly penetrate the hair shaft. I also use Sebastian products finishing sprays and gels because they allow me to have creative control when styling and maintaining hair. The Shaper Spray holds the shape of the hair but the hair stays manageable so I can still comb or brush hair for each change and the Laminates concentrate gel holds and moisturizes with no swelling of the cuticle. The result is less hair frizz.

Where do you work when not on set?

I recently opened a salon July 1st in Beverly Hills. The name of the salon is Amiri-means Thrive in Swahili.

If you're in Beverly Hills you can book an appointment at his studio Amiri at the Chess & Berman Bldg., 9911 West Pico Blvd. 90035, (213)446-0096, darico@amiristudio.com.

Interview by:
Danielle Gadson
Editor-in-Chief/Publisher
Urban Beauty Online
http://www.urbanbeautyonline.com

For Studio Bookings and Interviews:

Contact Darico through the Crystal Agency

Sisters Sanctuary: Healing the Gap Blog Tour Interview

2008-06-25T03:34:00.000-04:00

Meet Lacey C. Clark!

Lacey C Clark is an expert in solving the communications challenges between young and older women of color. She is a personal empowerment coach and Founder of Sisters Sanctuary, a community that reinforces personal empowerment, self-love and selfworth for teen girls of the Hip-Hop Generation and women of color. Her work includes creating the selflove movement and holiday, The Self-Love Celebration Series for female youth of Hip-Hop Generation, The Sisters' Sanctuary Inner Beau-Tea Parties, the workbook/journal, Celebrate HER Now! and ‘Healing the Gap!’ Discussion Prompts that Promote Healing and Bonding Conversations Between African American Women and Teen Girls, A Five Topic Audio Series. Lacey!'s clients include individuals, families, not-for profits, civic organizations and corporations. Lacey's insights heal wounds and bridge the gap created by our changing culture. She has shared stages and platforms with, Jill Scott, Hill Harper, Dr. Sonia Sanchez, Les Brown, and Dr. Robin Smith of the Oprah Winfrey show. Lacey!'s approach has been featured in both local and national media.

1. What is Sisters’ Sanctuary and How was it started?
Sisters' Sanctuary is a community that reinforces personal empowerment, self-love and self-worth for teen girls of the Hip Hop Generation and women of color. I created it in the fall of 2002 in response to the over saturation of carnal, superficial and materialistic images of women in today's media specifically in Hip Hop culture. Jill Scott's "The Thickness," a spoken-word ode to rescue Black girls from equating their self-worth with their physical sexuality was also my nspiration. In my teen years, I used to be the girl in Jill’s poem. I have evolved so much since then and am still evolving. I do understand that so many woman and teen girls have not. Hence, my work with Sisters’ Sanctuary. Sisters' Sanctuary's purpose is to support female youth and women recognize and understand their sacredness.

2. Why did your create ‘Healing The Gap!’ and how does it differ from your workbook/journal Celebrate HER Now?
I created Healing the Gap! because I noticed the communication and generation gap between Women and teen girls, specifically African American mothers and their teen daughters. I wanted to offer some of my techniques in reaching teen girls of today’s Hip-Hop generation to support our communities in healing the gap for personal and community empowerment. My book Celebrate HER Now! Is workbook/journal for mothers and
mentors of teen girls to support them in understanding and celebrating our young women as well as themselves.

3. What makes you an expert on the topic of bridging the gap between women and teen girls?
Comments like this from the parents of my Girls:
"Sisters’ Sanctuary has changed my life by seeing the changes in my daughter's life. It seemed like I was loosing her at one point thought about sending her away but because of Sisters' Sanctuary she has improved and the thought of sending her away would never cross my mind again. My daughter's success is what is most important
to me.”
“Before Sisters' Sanctuary, my daughter was out of control, fighting everyday; had very low self esteem, and was a bully. She has calmed down so much in this last year; I even caught her having a candle lit bubble bath with MY candles! She was celebrating her!!!! It was OK once I realized she was not only my baby girl, but she was growing up and I had to allow her to do so. Now she knows that she needs to do something other than violence and to look within first. She has learned how to love herself more and THINK about the consequences of her actions. I thank you for letting GOD use you and keep up the good work.”
- Beverley Johnson, Mother of teen participant.

My tried and true success in supporting women, young and old in seeing and celebrating their value and worth. My years of experience in bringing families, communities and young women together through my work with Sisters’
Sanctuary. The client results speak for themselves.

4. What is the difference between what you do as personal empowerment coach and a trained family therapist?
Good question. Coaching is not substitute for therapy. A coach inspires you to move your life forward to achieve positive changes and results. A coach works with the client to set goals that will support you in creating the experiences you want to have in your life. Coaches ask the right questions that enable you to search yourself
to find your truth to make healthier choices and better decisions for peace of mind and happiness. Therapists work with the client to resolve problems by talking about the events in the past. Coaching helps you get out of your own way and empowers you to take ownership and responsibility for the life you want to create today! Sometime the work overlaps but they are two different approaches.

5. How is ‘Healing the Gap!’ best used? Is it easy to follow?
Healing the Gap! can be used as bonding tool as:
1 on 1. A mother/ mentor can choose to incorporate Healing the Gap! as way to spend quality time with her teen daughter/mentee. (Family version)

1 on Group. A Facilitator can choose use the CD’s for her teen girls group for an after school program, summer camp, school. (Educational/Non-profit version)
Multi-Generational Group Setting. Like a Family Reunion, Sorority Youth Group Meeting or Church.

(Educational/Non-profit version)The adult in the group should be present to guide the conversations and responses but for the most part it is a
self-run program.

I also have a corporate version for corporations that provide services to youth. This version comes with an onsite or virtual training on how youth workers can implement Healing the Gap into their curriculum and will be sold in bulk. The Release of the Education and Corporate version is to be announced but can be made available upon request.

6. You have some interesting topics included in you 5 CD collection can you tell us about how you choose the 5 topics and why?
CD-1 Stress Management (Heart full of Peace), CD-2 Self-Image (Loving the Woman in the Mirror), CD-3 Body-Image (Loving my Body Like its Golden), CD-4 Exploring Men and Boys (The Baby and the Daddy), CD-5 Sex and Sexuality (Un-Shaming Sex and Sexuality)

I could have created so many more topics but I choose these five because stress directly affects our health. All major diseases including cancer, heart disease, depression, asthma, ulcers and lowered levels of immunity are stress related. The leading causes of death for African American women are heart disease, cancer, stroke, diabetes, and kidney disease, all diseases rooted in stress. I wanted us to explore the ways we can create peace, love, health and harmony for ourselves and our youth. In my coaching experiences, I have encountered many women and young women who are in turmoil about how they look, Self-Image (Loving the Women in the Mirror) is about self-acceptance and being at peace with your image, regardless of how the magazines, commercial or any other form of media define beauty. The discontent with one's body shape and size is not confined to White women alone. A survey conducted by
Essence magazine served as an eating disorders study. The results from over 2,000 respondents indicated that African American women are at risk for eating disorders in at least equal proportions to their White counterparts. Analysis of the results also revealed that African American women have adopted similar attitudes towards
body image, weight and eating to White women. (Pumariega, Gustavson, Gustavson, Stone Motes & Ayers, 1994). Loving My Body like it’s Golden, Body Image builds off of Self-Image but specifically focuses on how and why we see our bodies the way we do. Exploring Men and Boys was created to have healthy conversations around men and boys and why we see them the way we do. It’s about learning how to talk about men without male bashing and taking ownership over our sexual or nonsexual relationships with them.

Among women, about two out of three new HIV cases are African American. High rates of other STDs, including Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Syphilis are a problem as well. There is a lot of shame and secrecy around sex and sexuality in our communities; I grew up in a family where we never used the word “vagina.” We had nick names and everything that related to sex or sexuality was discussed in hush. My mother was very direct about sex but I didn’t want to listen to her, because I identified more with my father's side of the family. My Grandmother, my father’s mother is from the old south so she carried the vagina as “dirty and sinful” type of beliefs. In a lot ways, I now see how those beliefs have lead to my aunt’s deep sounds around sex and their sexuality. Un-Shaming Sex and Sexuality was created for women and girls to have honest shame free, nonjudgmental conversations around sex and sexuality to create healthier choices and better decisions. These five topics will enable bonding, healing and create a community of support and love instead of judgment
and condemning.

7. Who is ‘Healing the Gap!’ best for?
Women and Girls of African Descent.

8. Are you available for users to contact about ‘Healing the Gap!’? Is there training available?
Yes there will be a ‘Healing the Gap’ tele-coaching class available to any African American Women who wants direct support in healing the gap with their teen girls. This tele-coaching class is starts July 8, 2008 and runs for 8 weekly session until August 26, 2008. Tuesday's 5:30pm Pacific 8:30pm EST. I am also available for onsite coaching, speaking, consulting, training and workshops. More Info can be found on my website.

9. Where is ‘Healing The Gap!’ available?
‘Healing The Gap’ is available through Sisters’ Sanctuary.

10. What is next for Sisters’ Sanctuary?
Continue building the SS community online and offer quality programs that empower and heal our women and girls. Includes Real Rap with Lacey! –advice Pod cast for teen girls and so much more. Join our mailing list.

Please visit the Sisters Sanctuary for information and to purchase 5 Disc Kit.

Sisters Sanctuary

2008-06-24T08:28:00.003-04:00

Tomorrow I will be posting the Sisters Sanctuary Interview With Lacey Clark for the healing the Gap Tour. For more info on Sisters Sanctuary CLICK HERE.

New Message Board

2008-06-23T15:21:00.002-04:00

I recently deleted the message board. Mainly out of frustration with the design, and not being able to find any that I liked for me. And not being able to have or keep members. Well I decided to give it one more try. And I decided to try and make the design for the board myself. I hope you all like and I hope you join the site if you are a Mother a Mother to be or hoping to be one soon.

Thanks and God Bless.

CLICK HERE TO GO!

New Site!

2008-06-06T20:58:00.004-04:00

I now have a new site dedicated to templates. I hope you all enjoy the templates. I have my newest ones there, and I will eventually migrate my olds ones over as well.

Click To Go!

Sweet Grundge - Free Blogger XML Template

2008-06-06T16:41:00.004-04:00

Download

Template Installation Instructions

Hello All!

2008-06-04T19:01:00.004-04:00

I am back and it has been about 6 weeks since I had my baby girl. I have been very very busy with a newborn, and an almost 2 year old running around. And she's the type where you have to watch everything she does. Very very sneaky, I tell you the truth! But any who. I hope to start getting back into my mommie blog and into my forum. But for now I plan on making a new blog dedicated to my templates since I have gotten such a positive response. I am still looking for any other mothers interested in contributing to the blog, if so please shoot me an email. And also so I can have an idea of what templates to make in the future, please leave any comments on what types of blog templates as in themes and/or colors you would be interested in.

Thanks and God Bless!

And here is a little photo of my darling baby girl.

Behind

2007-10-02T17:12:00.000-04:00

I wanted to let everyone know that things have been pretty hetic for me as of lately and I have not been able to update and maintain Exotic Mommies as I would like. I am pregnant and on bed rest as of now. Hopefully things will get better soon and I will be back. But in the meantime, please feel free to browse the site and download any free templates that you like.

Thanks and God Bless.

Also if you are interested in joining the Exotic Mommie Team, Please let me know. Serious applicants only.

Recipe Of the Week: Inside-Out Cheesburger

2007-09-17T16:26:00.000-04:00

Ingredients

1. 1/4 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
2. 1/4 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
3. 1 pound 90%-lean ground beef
4. 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
5. 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
6. 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

Cooking Directions

1. Preheat grill to medium-high or preheat the broiler.
2. Combine Cheddar and Gruyere in a small bowl.
3. Gently mix beef, Worcestershire, paprika and pepper in a large bowl, preferably with your hands, without overworking. Shape into 8 thin, 4-inch-wide patties. Mound 2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture on each of 4 patties, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Cover each with one of the remaining patties. Crimp and seal the edges closed.
4. To grill: Lightly oil the grill rack (see Tip). Grill the stuffed patties over medium-high heat, about 4 minutes per side for medium-well. (Be sure not to press the burgers as they cook or they'll split open and the cheese will ooze out.) To broil: Cover a broiler pan with foil and coat with cooking spray. Broil the stuffed patties in the upper third of the oven, about 4 minutes per side for medium-well. In either case, let the burgers stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Serves 4

Tip: Why put the cheese on top of the burger when half of it just melts off--Instead, form the burger around the cheese so you can char the meat and safeguard the more delicate flavors. Use any mixture of hard or semihard cheeses-Emmentaler and Gouda or Asiago and Parmigiano-Reggiano also pair well.

Source: Yahoo! Foods

Food to Avoid while Pregnant

2007-09-10T15:06:00.000-04:00

When a pregnant woman eats right, she helps ensure that her baby gets all the nutrients needed for healthy growth and development. A healthy, well-balanced diet includes:

Protein foods (meats, poultry, fish, beans)
Grains (cereals, bread, pasta, rice)
Dairy products (milk, cheese)
Fruits and vegetables

However, there are a few foods that may pose risks during pregnancy. A pregnant woman should be aware of these risks, so she can choose the safest foods to nourish herself and her baby. Those Include:

Sushi
Raw or undercooked meats
Soft cheeses
Raw eggs
Ceasar dressing (has raw eggs)
Mayonnaise (has raw eggs)
Unpasteruized egg nog
Unpasteurized juices
Alcoholic beverages
Shark
Swordfish
King mackeral
Tilefish
Raw shellfish
Fish from contaminated water
Unpasteurized milk
Refrigerated pate
UNWASHED vegetables

What safe food handling practices can help prevent food poisoning?
Everyone should be careful to avoid contamination when handling and preparing food. This is especially important for pregnant women. The FDA recommends the following :

Wash hands with soap before and after handling food.
Wash cutting boards, other work surfaces and utensils with soap and hot water after contact with raw meat, poultry or fish.
Keep raw meat, poultry separate from cooked or ready-to-eat foods.
Rinse fruits and vegetables under running tap water before eating, and remove surface dirt with a scrub brush.
Remove and throw away the outermost leaves of lettuce and cabbage.
Cut away any damaged sections of fruits or vegetables (which can contain bacteria).
Refrigerate any leftovers promptly.
Never eat cooked food that has been out of the refrigerator longer than two hours.
To slow the growth of bacteria, make sure the temperature in your refrigerator is 40 degrees F. or below, and the freezer 0 degrees F. or below..

For More Information

This information was broken down into a summary for more detailed information go to March Of Dimes

Recipe of the Week: Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings

2007-09-10T14:44:00.000-04:00

SUBMITTED BY: Janiece Mason

PREP TIME 10 Min
COOK TIME 6 Hrs
READY IN 6 Hrs 10 Min

INGREDIENTS

* 4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
* 2 tablespoons butter
* 2 (10.75 ounce) cans condensed cream of chicken soup
* 1 onion, finely diced
* 2 (10 ounce) packages refrigerated biscuit dough, torn into pieces

DIRECTIONS

1. Place the chicken, butter, soup, and onion in a slow cooker, and fill with enough water to cover.
2. Cover, and cook for 5 to 6 hours on High. About 30 minutes before serving, place the torn biscuit dough in the slow cooker. Cook until the dough is no longer raw in the center.

Serves 8

Allrecipes.com

Questions about Pregnancy tests?

2007-09-06T17:04:00.000-04:00

A lot women have questions about Pregnancy tests. How does it work, how accurate is it, which are the best, and of course which are the most sensitive. My hope is to help you answer those questions and point you in the right direction, for other questions you may have.

How do pregnancy tests work?

Pregnancy tests look for a special hormone in the urine or blood that is only there when a woman is pregnant. This hormone, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), can also be called the pregnancy hormone.

The pregnancy hormone, hCG, is made in your body when a fertilized egg implants in the uterus. This usually happens about 6 days after conception. But studies show that the embryo doesn't implant until later in some women. The amount of hCG increases drastically with each passing day you are pregnant.

What's the difference between pregnancy tests that check urine and those that test blood? Which one is better?

There are two types of pregnancy tests. One tests the blood for the pregnancy hormone, hCG. The other checks the urine for this hormone. You can do a urine test at home with a home pregnancy test. You need to see a doctor to have blood tests.

These days, most women first use home pregnancy tests (HPT) to find out if they are pregnant. HPTs are inexpensive, private, and easy to use. The most sensitive HPTs have been shown to test positive at as early as 8 Days Past Ovulation. But this greatly varies from woman to woman, with most women not being able to test this early. To ensure no false negatives one should test at the earliest 10-12 DPO.

If a HPT says you are pregnant, you should call your doctor right away. You doctor can do a pelvic exam to tell for sure if you're pregnant. Seeing your doctor early on in your pregnancy will help you and your baby stay healthy.

Doctors use two types of blood tests to check for pregnancy. Blood tests can pick up hCG earlier in a pregnancy than urine tests can. Blood tests can tell if you are pregnant about 6 to 8 days after you ovulate (or release an egg from an ovary). A quantitative blood test (or the beta hCG test) measures the exact amount of hCG in your blood. So it can find even tiny amounts of hCG. This makes it very accurate. Qualitative hCG blood tests just check to see if the pregnancy hormone is present or not. So it gives a yes or no answer. The qualitative hCG blood test is about as accurate as a urine test.

How do you do a home pregnancy test?

There are many different types of home pregnancy tests, or HPTs. Most drugstores sell HPTs over-the-counter. They cost between $8 and $20 depending on the brand and how many tests come in the box. There are many online stores that sell small and cheap HPTs. Many are the same HPTs that they use at hospitals.

The most popular HPTs work in a similar ways. The majority tell the user to hold a stick in the urine stream. Others involve collecting urine in a cup and then dipping the stick into it. At least one brand tells the woman to collect urine in a cup and then put a few drops into a special container with a dropper. Testing the urine first thing in the morning may help boost accuracy.

Then the woman needs to wait a few minutes. Different brands instruct the woman to wait different amounts of time. Once the time has passed, the user should inspect the "result window." If a line or plus symbol appears, you are pregnant. It does not matter how faint the line is. A line, whether bold or faint, means the result is positive.

Most tests also have a "control indicator" in the result window. This line or symbol shows whether the test is working or not. If the control indicator does not appear, the test is not working properly. You should not rely on any results from a HPT that may be faulty.

Most brands tell users to repeat the test in a few days, no matter what the results. One negative result (especially soon after a missed period) does not always mean you're not pregnant. All HPTs come with written instructions. Most tests also have toll-free phone numbers to call in case of questions about use or results.

How accurate are home pregnancy tests?

Home pregnancy tests (HPTs) can be quite accurate. But the accuracy depends on many things. These include:

* How you use them - Be sure to follow the directions and check the expiration date.
* When you use them - The amount of hCG or pregnancy hormone in your urine increases with time. So, the earlier after a missed period you take the test the harder it is to spot the hCG. If you wait one week after a missed period to test, you are more apt to have an accurate result. Also, testing your urine first thing in the morning may boost the accuracy.
* Who uses them - The amount of hCG in the urine is different for every pregnant woman. So, some women will have accurate results on the day of the missed period while others will need to wait longer.
* The brand of test - Some home pregnancy tests are more sensitive than others. So, some tests are better than others at spotting hCG early on.

Which brand of pregnancy test is the most accurate?

Some brands of tests can pick up lower levels of hCG than others. But limited research makes it impossible to say for sure which one is the best. Studies have said that First Response is the best over the counter brand, but in my HUMBLE opinion. The cheap internet brands are the best. A lot of these internet cheapies are the same tests that they use at hospitals, so I shouldn't be hard to understand why they are better.

I got a negative result on a home pregnancy test. Can I still be pregnant?

Yes. Most HPTs suggest women take the test again in a few days or a week.

Every woman ovulates at different times in her menstrual cycle. And every woman does not have a 28 day cycle. Plus, embryos implant in the uterus at different times. So, the accuracy of HPT results varies from woman to woman. Other things can also affect the accuracy.

Sometimes women get false negative results (when the test says you are not pregnant and you are) when they test too early in the pregnancy. Other times, problems with the pregnancy can affect the amount of hCG in the urine.

If your HPT is negative, test yourself again in a few days or 1 week. If you keep getting a negative result but think you are pregnant, talk with your doctor right away.

Can anything interfere with home pregnancy test results?

Most medicines, over-the-counter and prescription, including birth control pills and antibiotics, should not affect the results of a home pregnancy test. Only medicines that have the pregnancy hormone hCG in them can give a false positive test result. A false positive is when a test says you are pregnant when you're not.

Sometimes medicines containing hCG are used to treat infertility (not being able to get pregnant). Alcohol and illegal drugs do not affect HPT results. But women who may become pregnant should not use these substances.

Pregnancy Test Sensitivity Chart

Source:Peeonastick.com

TwoWeekWait.com has a great picture gallery if you want to compare your pregnancy test results.

For more Detailed info on Pregnancy tests check out Peeonastick.com

Information researched from womenshealth.gov among other sources.

Recipe of the Week: Marinated Flank Steak

2007-09-04T17:45:00.000-04:00

SUBMITTED BY: Connie DiPianta

INGREDIENTS

* 1/2 cup vegetable oil
* 1/3 cup soy sauce
* 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
* 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
* 1 1/2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
* 1 1/2 pounds flank steak

DIRECTIONS

1. In a medium bowl, mix the oil, soy sauce, vinegar, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, garlic, and ground black pepper. Place meat in a shallow glass dish. Pour marinade over the steak, turning meat to coat thoroughly. Cover, and refrigerate for 6 hours.
2. Preheat grill for medium-high heat.
3. Oil the grill grate. Place steaks on the grill, and discard the marinade. Grill meat for 5 minutes per side, or to desired doneness.

Serves 6

Allrecipes.com

Happy labor Day

2007-09-03T00:15:00.001-04:00

Photo Source:Ernest von Rosen

ALWAYS FINISH

If a task is once begun,
Never leave it till it's done.
Be the labor great or small,
Do it well or not at all.

Anonymous

The History Of Labor Day
The origins of Labor Day are more than a century old.

Labor Day is a United States Federal Holiday that takes place on the first Monday in September.

The holiday began in 1882, originating from a desire by the Central labor union to create a day off for the "working man". It is still celebrated mainly as a day of rest and marks the symbolic end of summer for many. Labor Day became a federal holiday by Act of Congress in 1894.

Two men are credited with playing an important role not only in bringing about the parade but the holiday as well. Matthew Maguire, a machinist from Paterson, N.J., and Peter J. McGuire, a New York City carpenter who helped found the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners, are said to have suggested a holiday to honor working people in the United States.

Labor Day is observed as a legal holiday on the first Monday in September throughout the United States, Puerto Rico and Canada. In Australia, Labor Day is called Eight Hour Day, and it commemorates the successful struggle for a shorter working day. In Europe, Labor Day is observed on May 1, also known as May Day.

Strength

2007-08-30T19:56:00.000-04:00

Last night the Lord touched my spirit to deliver some powerful messages thru the struggles that are faced to this day. Strength is one of the number keys along with mercy that the Lord gives to us to continue on our day to day walk. Living within the flesh is a hard day to day walk. But living by the spirit can be joyful and uplifting. Even thou we face day to day struggles Gods mercy has not allowed us to fall where we can't get back up. God's strength is what holds us not give back. Last night the Lord touched my heart to give some words of encouragement to women out their still facing the hardships within this world. Someone is going to read this that is on their last page ready to give up. They have been hit in every way possible and they no longer feel the strength to keep moving on. The Lord has pressed upon to say "GOD IS THERE IN THE MIST OF YOUR TROUBLES." Hold on my sister and stay focus and your peace will come with your reward.

"But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. 8. We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed,; we are preplexed, but not in despair; 9. Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; 10. Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body."

2 Corinthains 4:7-10

As women even as men we have to keep our faith within Christ in all he does. The enemy is constantly attacking in every way. I am here to confess to everyone God can deliver you out of any situation we are present within. But reach out on faith and believe and the times will change. The Lord is there thru every situation that may seem unbearable to us at the time but with God's mercy and grace its never too unbearable. "REACH OUT ON FAITH" I wrote in a blog on another site (at the bottom of this blog will be the link that each and everyone of you can visit) the enemy has been coming within my marriage and my finances and days seem for me so hard but I always know that Christ is there in the mist of everything. Now is the days we as women or men need to stay in fasting, prayer and reading our bibles and sticking together to defeat the attacks of the body of the enemy. My saying this week "WHAT WILL IT HURT TO JUST PASS IT OVER TO GOD AND ALLOW GOD TO SEE US THRU." We may have down whatever we can in the situations we are in but "WHAT WILL IT HURT TO PASS IT OVER TO GOD." Women of all different ethnics backgrounds "REACH OUT ON FAITH AND BELIEVE IN YOUR HEART AND GOD WILL SEE YOU THRU."

FEEL FREE TO CHECK MY PAGE OUT FOR ENCOURAGEMENT! GOD BE WITH YOU ALL!

http://www.myspace.com/t_hudson79

Pregnancy Symptoms - Early Signs of pregnancy

2007-08-28T02:38:00.000-04:00

Are you wondering if you are pregnant? Have you taken a pregnancy test and it came up negative and still have a nagging feeling you are. Or is it positive and you are still in disbelief? Have you missed your period and are unsure, yet too afraid to take a test?

The excitement and anticipation of finding out if one is pregnant can be exciting and yet very nerve wracking. But you should remember that every womans body is different, and some symptoms can differ from woman to woman and pregnancy to pregnancy. Some women get symptoms right around the time of conception, while others not until several weeks later. So this list is just a reference.

Implantation Bleeding:
Implantation bleeding can be one of the earliest pregnancy symptoms. About 6-12 days after conception, the embryo implants itself into the uterine wall. Some women will experience spotting as well as some cramping.

Other Explanations: Actual menstruation, altered menstruation, changes in birth control pill, infection, or abrasion from intercourse.

Delay/Difference in Menstruation:
A delayed or missed menstruation is the most common pregnancy symptom leading a woman to test for pregnancy. When you become pregnant, your next period should be missed. Many women can bleed while they are pregnant, but typically the bleeding will be shorter or lighter than a normal period.

Other Explanations: Excessive weight gain/loss, fatigue, hormonal problems, tension, stress, ceasing to take the birth control pill, or breast-feeding.

Swollen/Tender Breasts:
Swollen or tender breasts is a pregnancy symptom which may begin as early as 1-2 weeks after conception. Women may notice changes in their breasts; they may be tender to the touch, sore, or swollen.

Other Explanations: Hormonal imbalance, birth control pills, impending menstruation (PMS) can also cause your breasts to be swollen or tender.

Fatigue/Tiredness:
Feeling fatigued or more tired is a pregnancy symptom which can also start as early as the first week after conception.

Other Explanations: Stress, exhaustion, depression, common cold or flu, or other illnesses can also leave you feeling tired or fatigued.

Nausea/Morning Sickness:
This well-known pregnancy symptom will often show up between 2-8 weeks after conception. Some women are fortunate to not deal with morning sickness at all, while others will feel nauseous throughout most of their pregnancy.

Other Explanations: Food poisoning, stress, or other stomach disorders can also cause you to feel queasy.

Backaches:
Lower backaches may be a symptom that occurs early in pregnancy; however, it is common to experience a dull backache throughout an entire pregnancy.

Other Explanations: Impending menstruation, stress, other back problems, and physical or mental strains.

Headaches:
The sudden rise of hormones in your body can cause you to have headaches early in pregnancy.

Other Explanations: Dehydration, caffeine withdrawal, impending menstruation, eye strain, or other ailments can be the source of frequent or chronic headaches.

Frequent Urination:
Around 6-8 weeks after conception, you may find yourself making a few extra trips to the bathroom.

Other Explanations: Urinary tract infection, diabetes, increasing liquid intake, or taking excessive diuretics.

Darkening of Areolas:
If you are pregnant, the skin around your nipples may get darker.

Other Explanations: Hormonal imbalance unrelated to pregnancy or may be a leftover effect from a previous pregnancy.

Food Cravings:
While you may not have a strong desire to eat pickles and ice cream, many women will feel cravings for certain foods when they are pregnant. This can last throughout your entire pregnancy.

Other Explanations: Poor diet, lack of a certain nutrient, stress, depression, or impending menstruation.

If you feel or believe you are pregnant, it is very important to take a pregnancy test. That way you can get prenatal care as soon as possible. And remember that the list is just a reference. It should not be used as a pregnancy confirmation, only your doctor can do that.

For Free Pregnancy tests, or help coping with an unplanned pregnancy.
CareNet.Org
They offer counseling, pregnancy tests, as well as free ultrasounds.

Source of Info: AmericanPregnancy.org

Recipe of the Week: Garlic Chicken

2007-08-27T01:33:00.000-04:00

SUBMITTED BY: Carol

INGREDIENTS

* 2 teaspoons crushed garlic
* 1/4 cup olive oil
* 1/4 cup dry bread crumbs
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C).
2. Warm the garlic and olive oil to blend the flavors. In a separate dish, combine the bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese. Dip the chicken breasts in the olive oil and garlic mixture, then into the bread crumb mixture. Place in a shallow baking dish.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, until no longer pink and juices run clear.

Serving Size 4

Allrecipes.com

The Importance of Prenatal Care for Women of Color

2007-08-22T16:53:00.000-04:00

Prenatal Care is a very important factor in having a healthy pregnancy as well as a healthy baby. Experts say that Black women of all economic levels lose more babies and have more low-birth-weight babies than White women. Black women are also more prone to have pregnancy problems and complications more than other races of women. According to one study, Black women are three times more likely than White women to die during pregnancy and twice as many Black babies die in infancy. Researchers are now studying why pregnancy and infant health differ by race, despite widespread efforts to address this persistent problem. But most studies indicate that early prenatal care is a consistent key to a positive pregnancy.

Even though there is a positive growth trend in Black women getting prenatal care. There is still a great racial disparity in the likelihood of Black women getting care early in their pregnancy.

Studies show that Black women living in urban communities are less likely to get adequate prenatal care during their pregnancy than White women are. Young women in their teens are by far the most likely to receive late or no prenatal care.

Increasing the level of prenatal care among African American women may be one method of improving the health and well-being of African American women and children. Another method would be increasing the level of adequate prenatal care for lower income and younger women.

Receiving early prenatal care can help to reduce the incidence of perinatal illness, disability, and death by providing health care advice to mothers and identifying and managing any chronic or pregnancy-related risks. Mothers who receive late or no prenatal care are more likely to have babies with health problems. Mothers who do not receive prenatal are three times more likely to give birth to a low weight baby and their baby is five times more likely to die.

So please remember to get adequate and consistent prenatal care throughout your entire pregnancy, and don't wait until you are "showing" or in your 2nd Trimester to start.

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2007-08-22T06:23:00.000-04:00

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Caring For your New Born Baby

2007-08-21T15:00:00.001-04:00

Going home with a new baby is exciting, but it can be very scary as well. Newborns have many needs, like frequent feedings and diaper changes. Babies can have health issues that are different from older children and adults, like diaper rash, Colic and Reflux.

Your baby will go through many changes during the first year of life. You may have some scares, but most and hopefully all will be very normal changes, but there are some things that can be very concerning.

Caring for a newborn is one the most challenging and important things in a parents life. A newborn is totally dependent on their parents to take care of them.

Here are some tips for taking care of your newborn baby.

Feeding:
Deciding to breastfeed or formula feed your baby is a very important decision, that should be made before the baby is even born. Breast milk provides the best nutrition for you baby, and it also helps with your baby's immune defenses, given that you are passing yours directly to your baby. However if you have to for medical reasons or just decide not to breast feed. Bottle Feeding is a very good alternative. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends iron-fortified formula for all formula-fed infants. And some infant formulas are enhanced with docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (ARA). These substances are omega-3 fatty acids found in breast milk and certain foods, such as fish and eggs. And DHA and ARA are thought to be important for infant eyesight and brain development. You should feed your newborn on demand, most newborns feed 2 to 3 hours. Each feeding should last 10-20 minutes.

Bathing:
A newborn needs to be bathed only 2-3 times a week during their first year. Bathing too much can irritate and dry out their sensitive skin. You should give your newborn a sponge bath for the first two weeks only, or until their umbilical cord falls off.(If you notice the cord has become infected immediately notify your child's doctor). Afterwards you can wash your baby in a water filled basin or baby tub. The tubs that are best for a newborn are the tubs that include a sling. If you don't by a tub with a sling then you must make sure to support your baby's head at all times. And You should NEVER leave your baby unattended.

Sleep:
Sleep is an essential part of your newborns life. Most newborns sleep 14 to 18 hours a day during the first week and 12 to 16 hours a day by the time they're a month old. But most babies don't stay asleep for more than two to four hours at a time, day or night, during the first few weeks of life. (So make sure you get plenty of sleep before the baby arrives). Make sure to place your baby on his or her back and on a firm mattress with no blankets or pillows, which could block their nose or mouth. This will help to reduce the risk of SIDS. You can also purchase a well made incline sleep positioner. Make sure to read the reviews and get a Doctors opinion for the one you interested in.

Other notes and thing to look out for:
Before you leave the hospital, make sure that your child's car seat is properly installed. And that it's facing toward the rear of the car.

Take your child to all their appointments, and scheduled check ups. And make sure they get all their immunizations. Do not smoke or allow smoking around your child. A study of SIDS deaths showed that more than 700 out of 3000 were related to maternal smoking. The Surgeon General's Report for 2004 makes it very clear: "Babies whose mothers smoke before and after birth are three to four times more likely to die from SIDS."

You should always try and listen to your mothers intuition. If something just doesn't feel or seem right. Don't be afraid to call your doctor, and tell them what's concerning you. While it's normal to have a very fussy baby. If you notice that your baby is crying more than usual or their cry sounds different from their usual cry or just very unusual in general. There could be a medical problem.

If you newborn is sleeping more than usual, or is barely awake and doesn't wake up for feeding, or is to tired to feed or uninterested. Take your baby to the doctor immediately.

So all in all, make sure to give your child love, affection and attention. There's no such thing as spoiling a baby.

*Note: You should always talk with your doctor first, to find out what's best for YOUR baby.

For More Info on Children Health Issues

Information Researched from The U.S National Libary of Medicine and the American Medical Association

Closer with Christ will find happiness

2007-08-21T14:39:00.000-04:00

Last night the spirit of the Lord touched me again for single, married and all ethnic backgrounds women of all ages. He tells me that increasing our knowledge within the word of God brings us closer unto him. He is the Alpha and the Omega and he can get us out of any situation we come within. For example the Lord leads me to Proverbs 5 which states

"A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels: 6 To understand a proverb, and the interpretation: the words of teh wise, and their dark sayings. 7. The fear of the Lord is teh beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction

Proverbs 1:5-7

The power of the Lord is saying "reach not unto your own understanding." The Lord say come closer to him. I am here to encourage everyone to read your bible,pray or just talk to the Lord. His door is always open. As women the Lord sees our trials and struggles. The Lord knows our pains and he sees our cries. The Lord wants each and everyone to open their mouth and speak to him. Why hold on the pains you struggle day to day when Christ is here to lift those pains and direct your path to better and brighter futures. Let me ask a question, how many of you have tried to handle situation on your own understanding but it never works out but once you leave it alone not realizing it, the situation just works out? Well I am here to confess that I have been in that more times than I can count. When you leave the situation alone and allow God to handle it, the situation just seems to work out. That Christ taking the situation within his hands and allowing his will to be done. I am hear to encourage each and every one of you to pick up your bibles and grow a closeness unto Christ and see the change within your life.

"My son, if thou wilt recieve my words, and hid my commandments with thee; 2. So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding; 3. Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding; 4. if thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as hid treasures; 5. Then shalt thou understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God."

Proverbs 2: 1-5

The Lord speaks and says to everyone, to allow his instruction to lead your path. Don't give up, stay focus and he will provide.

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2007-08-20T19:23:00.000-04:00

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Recipe of the Week: Blackend Salmon and Salad

2007-08-20T02:41:00.001-04:00

Photo Originally uploaded by Buddy Stone

SUBMITTED BY: Jeff Calkins
"Fire up succulent salmon with an exciting blend of Cajun-style spices!"

INGREDIENTS

* 2 tablespoons ground paprika
* 1 tablespoon ground cayenne pepper
* 1 tablespoon onion powder
* 2 teaspoons salt
* 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
* 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
* 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
* 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
* 4 salmon fillets, skin and bones removed
* 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

DIRECTIONS

1. In a small bowl, mix paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, salt, white pepper, black pepper, thyme, basil and oregano.
2. Brush salmon fillets on both sides with 1/4 cup butter, and sprinkle evenly with the cayenne pepper mixture. Drizzle one side of each fillet with 1/2 remaining butter.
3. In a large, heavy skillet over high heat, cook salmon, butter side down, until blackened, 2 to 5 minutes. Turn fillets, drizzle with remaining butter, and continue cooking until blackened and fish is easily flaked with a fork.

Serve with with salad and your favorite Salad Dressing

Serves 4

Source: Allrecipes.com

Skin Care Tips from the Inside Out

2007-08-18T17:17:00.000-04:00

When I was pregnant with my daughter, I had the most beautiful skin. Everyone commented on how beautiful I was and how my skin 'glowed'. Some months after having her I noticed that my skin was not as beautiful as it was before, and that I had also broken out with acne. Some might say that the change was because of the pregnancy alone. And yes there will be a difference. But it shouldn't have been so drastic. And I am going to have to admit that I am to blame.

Once I had the baby, I totally changed my eating habits. While pregnant, I ate very healthy, took my prenatal pills daily, drank plenty of water, and organic cranberry juice, among many other organic juices. After I had the baby, well actually after I finished breast feeding her (she was born premature so I wasn't able to breast feed for very long) I took to drinking, Pepsi, Coca-Cola, eating very unhealthy, and I stopped taking my prenatal pills. Obviously my healthy diet is what made my skin look as healthy and as good as it did. Healthy living is vital to having healthy and beautiful looking skin.

Soda's are a big no no, if you want healthy looking skin. Some people are known to break out with acne from drinking soda alone. If you are going to drink soda, it should be kept to a minimum. Also fried and greasy foods should be kept to a minimum. Instead you should bake, sauté (in olive oil)or broil your food. Make sure to drink plenty of water. Water is known to help cleanse out the body as well as your skin. Drink about 8 glasses (8-9 cups) daily.

I would also recommend that you continue to take your prenatal pills or some other multivitamin. And also some Omega-3 (essential fatty acid) pills. I personally take flax seed oil pills, but fish oil pills are better if you pregnant. Make sure to talk to your doctor about which is best for you before you start to take anything. You should also try to add some exercise/activity to your lifestyle. Make sure it's something you like, whether walking, jogging, biking, or just going to the gym. You don't want it to become a chore. And we know that not everyone has time to work out. So if you can instead of taking that elevator at your job. Take the stairs. Every little bit helps.

"Yellow Dreams" - Blogger XML Template

2007-08-18T16:43:00.000-04:00

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"Rainbow Fantasy" - Blogger XML Template

2007-08-18T02:35:00.000-04:00

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PZI jeans

2007-08-17T03:35:00.000-04:00

Grown and Sexy

Over a year ago I happened to stumble across a brand of jeans called 'PZI'. I had never heard of them before and assumed that they were your usual jeans company "claiming" to be made for curvy women. But they caught my eye with their description about being for "women" who want to keep their urban style. For years I had been buying the popular urban jeans that were out there, but my problem is that it seemed that they all were 'lowride' and were for teenagers. Those jeans were a little more revealing than sexy for my tastes. I mean yes the jeans are cute and stylish, but I am NOT comfortable with going to a restaurant and when I sit down my thong is showing. I am a mother and a wife, and I don't wanna walk around like that. Yet at the same time I don't want to give up my urban style.

So here comes PZI. The jeans fit me to a T, and I am allowed to show my figure all the while, still remaining classy. The jeans are perfect for us mothers who still have a nice sized waistline, but hips have expanded. Going through child birth tends to spread the hips. And after having a baby it can be hard to find the perfect fitting jean. So if you want a look that is Grown, Classy, and Sexy. I definitely Recommend PZI.

www.pzijeans.com

High Risk Pregnancy

2007-08-16T19:02:00.000-04:00

Every pregnancy includes some risks. But high risk pregnancies have more health dangers to the baby, as well as the mother. Some risks to a pregnancy include:

Heart disease
High blood pressure
Kidney problems
Autoimmune disorders
Sexually transmitted diseases
Diabetes
Cancer
Gestational Diabetes

Good Health and prenatal care can prevent most pregnancy complications. But there are some factors that can present before a women is pregnant.

Risk factors for a high-risk pregnancy can include:

Young or old maternal age
Being overweight or underweight
Having had problems in previous pregnancies
Pre-existing health conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or HIV

Health problems can also develop during a pregnancy that can make it high-risk. Such problems may occur even in a woman who was previously healthy.

What are some conditions that may cause a high-risk pregnancy?

Preeclampsia and Eclampsia - Preeclampsia is a syndrome that includes high blood pressure, urinary protein, and changes in blood levels of liver enzymes during pregnancy. It can affect the mother’s kidneys, liver, and brain. With treatment, many women will have healthy babies. If left untreated, the condition can be fatal for the mother and/or the baby and can lead to long-term health problems. Eclampsia is a more severe form of preeclampsia that can cause seizures and coma in the mother.
Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (or gestational diabetes) is a type of diabetes that only pregnant women get. If a woman gets diabetes when she is pregnant, but never had it before, then she has gestational diabetes. Many women with gestational diabetes have healthy pregnancies and healthy babies because they follow a treatment plan from their health care provider.
HIV/AIDS kills or damages cells of the body's immune system, progressively destroying the body's ability to fight infections and certain cancers. The term AIDS applies to the most advanced stages of HIV infection.
Women can give HIV to their babies during pregnancy, while giving birth, or through breastfeeding. But, there are effective ways to prevent the spread of mother-to-infant transmission of HIV.
Preterm Labor is labor that begins before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Because the baby is not fully grown at this time, it may not be able to survive outside the womb. Health care providers will often take steps to try to stop labor if it occurs before this time.
Although there is no way to know which women will experience preterm labor or birth, there are factors that place women at higher risk, such as certain infections, a shortened cervix, or previous preterm birth.
Other medical conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart, breathing, or kidney problems can become more serious during a woman’s pregnancy. Regular prenatal care can help ensure a healthier pregnancy for a woman and her baby.

Information Source: U.S. National Library of Medicine

The Toxic Chemistry of Everyday Products

2007-08-16T14:12:00.000-04:00

By Vanja Petrovic, AlterNet.org

Investigative journalist Mark Schapiro discusses why companies that manufacture hazard-free products for the European Union often produce toxin-filled versions of the same items for America and developing countries.

American industry would have you believe that taking potentially hazardous and toxic chemicals out of everyday consumer products -- removing phthalates from children's toys and cancer-causing coal tar from hair dye -- would damage our economy and result in a loss of American jobs. In his latest book, Exposed: The Toxic Chemistry of Everyday Products, Mark Schapiro busts this myth and reveals the grim fact that some companies, whether American or international, often have two production lines: one that manufactures hazard-free products for the European Union and another that produces toxin-filled versions of the same items for America and developing countries.

Schapiro examines how America, once a leader in environmental protection, came to allow potentially toxic and mutagenic chemicals, banned by the EU, into everyday products. He also looks at how the EU's economy -- almost identical to that of America -- continued to thrive even after these chemicals were banned, essentially "calling the bluff" of the American industry.

To Continue Reading

Thanks to Danielle for the info.

Trailer for Tyler Perry's Why Did I Get Married?

2007-08-15T15:22:00.000-04:00

The movie revolves around a couple who go away with friends every winter to examine their marriages in a group setting. One of the wives brings along a sexy young temptress who causes plenty of trouble for the couples.

Direction is the Way

2007-08-15T10:22:00.000-04:00

Originally uploaded by zhaydi

First and Foremost I would like say, I give thanks to God who is the head of my life. He is the one that has brought me out of struggles faced day to day. Today for this blog I hear the Lord lead me to tell all of us mommies that are struggling, married, single, and of all ethnice backgrounds, that the direction is unto him. For he is the one that can make paths narrow and strait. The Lord tells me to say not to dwell upon our own understanding for he is the meat of our bones, he is the direction of our paths.

Just because as women making mistakes the Lord will still love us the same. The Lord gives me at first in St. Luke 15 where it speaks of loosing someone and the rejoicing that is given when that person is found by the will of God. For example

"What man of you, having an hundred sheep if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? 5. And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders rejoicing. 6. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbors, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost. 7. I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons which need no repentance."
St. Luke 15: 4-7

I hear the Lord saying my way is the way. Repent and Rejoice unto him. The Lord is saying he is the way.

The Lord takes me to Mark 3 and shows how he is the one that can make us whole and heal our bodies from the inside, out:

"And he entered again into the synagogue, and there was a man there which had a withered hand. 2. And they watched him, whether he would heal himon the sabbath day; that they might accuse him. 3. And he saith unto the man which had the withered hand, Stand forth. 4. And he said unto them, Is it lawful to do good onteh sabbath days, or to do evil? to save life, or to kill? But they held their peace. 5. And when he had looked round about on them with anger, being grieved for the hardness of their hearts he saith unto the man, Stretch forth thine hand. And he stretched it out: and his hand was restored whole as the other"
St. Mark 3: 1-5

The Lord has the power to make whole again. Trust in him and go his way and ye shall be made whole.

Today I am sending request out to recieve prayer over their lives. It can be of any request. But know this that the Lord is the one that can you out of any situation that you don't want to be in, the Lord is the one that heal any famine(diseases) present within your bodies. Trust in the Lord and See the Miracles the Lord can and will do. Respond to this blog and send out your request!!!!

The Knowles Family partner with toy company to make Baby Jamz

2007-08-14T06:06:00.000-04:00

Solange and her son on the Today Show promoting the toys.

Baby Jamz allows children to have toys that they can identify with and enjoy. Many children love music and dancing to hip-hop, so we have creatively combined great toys with the hip-hop versions of popular nursery rhymes. My grandson Juelz was the inspiration for this idea and I am especially excited that most of the Nursery Rhymes are sung by my daughter, Solange Knowles," says Mathew Knowles, president and CEO of Music World Entertainment.

A CD release, "Nursery Rhymes Volume 1," will accompany the line which will include nursery rhyme favorites such as "This Old Man," "Old MacDonald," and "Skip To My Lou" with a new hip-hop adaptation.

Baby Jamz in a line inspired through the Knowles family. Mathew's daughter, Solange Knowles, provides voice to the line singing many of the nursery rhymes played within the toys and on the CD. Solange's son, Juelz, is the face of Baby Jamz, seen on the product packaging and in its ads.

Including the CD, a few of the products to appear in approximately 1,300 Wal-Mart locations include:

-- Baby Jamz Cell Phone: A product staple in the preschool aisle, the
Baby Jamz cell phone appears to have many buttons to dial but is designed
for easy and fun musical stimulation. Toddlers need only to press one of
two large buttons to hear "Old MacDonald," "Buckle My Shoe" and "Mary Had A
Little Lamb."

-- Baby Jamz Dance Mat (Nursery Rhymes Sung By Solange Knowles): The
Jamz Dance Mat inspires kids to dance to 36 seconds of classic nursery
rhymes "Bingo," "Mary Had A Little Lamb" and "This Old Man" in hip-hop
tempo, providing seven different spots on the mat to step, dance and create
their own unique rendition. The mat provides hours of endless fun and
physical activity.

-- Baby Jamz Key Chain: This classic perennial preschool item has three
different buttons to play hip-hop nursery melodies. Two outside keys have
flip out buttons to expand and fold back to create a real "feel" of keys.
Pulling the middle key creates the sound of a starting car.

-- Baby Jamz Boom Box Shape Sorter (Nursery Rhymes Sung By Solange
Knowles): Baby Jamz Boom Box Musical Shape Sorter engages children to
complete three different hip-hop nursery rhymes by placing square, triangle
and circle LED light up blocks in the right order. The microphone has
three buttons that a child can press to emit cool add-in sounds to each
song. "Boomer" the boom box has a friendly, fun animated appearance.
Nursery rhymes played within are "Hip-Hop Buckle My Shoe," "Twinkle Twinkle
Little Star," and "Wheels On The Bus."

-- Baby Jamz Mix Master Chair (Nursery Rhymes Sung By Solange Knowles):
The anticipated "hero" item in this year's Baby Jamz line is the Baby Jamz
Mix master Chair. Every child is a DJ with his or her own Mix Master
Chair. Four numbered light up buttons deliver cool add-in sounds to the
child's choice of nursery rhyme. When a child sits in the chair and on a
yellow note in the seat, all buttons come to life. Kids can create several
renditions of each nursery rhyme by pressing three different buttons that
light up and provide hours of fun.

According to website, toys will be available in Wal-mart on August 13.

http://www.planettoys.com

Discuss On Forum

Recipe of the Week: Fresh Tomato Shrimp Pasta

2007-08-13T00:24:00.000-04:00

Originally uploaded by desertculinary

RECIPE BY: Lisa Nichols

"Fresh tomatoes and spinach, fresh herbs, and fresh mozzarella combine with shrimp and fettuccine for an easy summer dinner."

INGREDIENTS

* 8 ounces dry fettuccine pasta
* 3 cloves garlic
* 1/2 sweet onion, cut into wedges
* 3 tablespoons fresh oregano leaves
* 4 tablespoons olive oil
* 4 medium tomatoes, chopped
* 3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
* salt and pepper to taste
* 1 cup spinach leaves
* 1 pound cooked shrimp - peeled and deveined
* 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, diced

DIRECTIONS

1. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the pasta, and cook for 8 minutes, or until tender. Drain.
2. In the container of a food processor, combine the garlic, onion and oregano. Pulse until finely chopped. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion mixture; cook and stir until fragrant and almost golden. Mix in the tomatoes, basil, salt and pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes while the pasta is cooking, stirring occasionally.
3. Mix in spinach until it wilts, then just before the pasta is done, stir in the shrimp. Cook until heated through. Toss with pasta in a large serving bowl, and mix in mozzarella cheese.

Serves 4

Source: Allrecipes.com

Thinking about having a baby? Preconception Care

2007-08-12T00:22:00.000-04:00

If you are planning on trying to conceive (ttc). The first step you should take, is checking your Preconception Health. Preconception health is your health before you get pregnant. It includes health conditions and risk factors that could affect a womans pregnancy. It applies to women who have never been pregnant and those who are planning to get pregnant again. It looks at what factors can affect your baby's health, like smoking, drinking, drug abuse as well as certain prescription drugs. It also helps to reduce the risk of miscarriage, or having a child with medical problems/disabilities. The key to promoting preconception health is to combine the best medical care, healthy behaviors, strong support, and safe environments at home and at work.

Preconception Health Care is care given to a woman before pregnancy to manage conditions and behaviors which could be a risk to her or her baby. This is especially recommended for women with a history of high risk pregnancies, or who have been ttc for over a year. There are many topics covered under preconception care.

Folic acid supplements to prevent neural tube defects.

Rubella vaccinations to prevent Congenital Rubella Syndrome.

Detecting and treating existing health conditions to prevent complications in the mother, and reduce the risk of birth defects:

Diabetes

Hypothyroidism

HIV/AIDS

Hepatitis B

Hypertension

Blood diseases

Eating disorders

Reviewing medications that can affect the fetus or the mother, such as epilepsy medicine, blood thinners, and some medicines used to treat acne, such as Accutane.

Reviewing a woman’s pregnancy history – has she lost a baby before?

Stopping smoking to reduce the risk of low birth weight

Eliminating alcohol consumption to prevent Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, and other complications.

Family planning counseling to avoid unplanned pregnancies.

Counseling to promote healthy behaviors such as appropriate weight, nutrition, exercise, oral health. Counseling can help a woman avoid substance abuse and toxic substances. It can help women and couples understand genetic risks, mental health issues (such as depression), and intimate partner domestic violence.

Good preconception health care is about managing current health conditions. By taking action on health issues BEFORE pregnancy, future problems for the mother and baby can be prevented. Preconception health care must be tailored to each individual woman. It means helping women and their partners reduce risks and get ongoing care. Men and other family members are also very important in supporting the goals of preconception health.

Every man and woman should prepare for pregnancy at least three months before conception. Women should begin some of the recommendations even sooner – such as quitting smoking, reaching healthy weight, and adjusting medications.

The five most important things a woman can do for preconception health are:

Take 400 mcg of folic acid a day for at least 3 months before becoming pregnancy to reduce the risk of birth defects.
Stop smoking and drinking alcohol.
If you currently have a medical condition, be sure these conditions are under control. Conditions include but are not limited to asthma, diabetes, oral health, obesity, or epilepsy. Be sure that your vaccinations are up to date.
Talk to your doctor and pharmacist about any over the counter and prescription medicines you are taking, including vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements, you are taking.
Avoid exposures to toxic substances or potentially infectious materials at work or at home, such as chemicals, or cat and rodent feces.

Men can make a big difference in promoting good preconception health. As fathers-to-be, partners, and family members, they can learn how their loved ones can achieve optimal preconception health. They can encourage and support women in every aspect of preparing for pregnancy.

Despite the fact that there have been many important advances in medicine and prenatal care. Birth outcomes are worse in the United States than in other developed countries. Many babies are born prematurely or have low birthweight. In some groups of people, the problems are actually getting worse.

All Experts agree that women need to be healthier before becoming pregnant.

Having a healthy Pregnancy

2007-08-11T19:57:00.000-04:00

Not all birth defects can be prevented, but a woman can take some actions that increase her chance of having a healthy baby. Many birth defects happen very early in pregnancy, sometimes before a woman even knows she is pregnant. Remember that about half of all pregnancies are unplanned.

ABC's...Pregnancy Tips (A-Z)

A Avoid exposure to toxic substances and chemicals --- such as cleaning solvents, lead and mercury, some insecticides, and paint. Pregnant women should avoid exposure to paint fumes.

B Be sure to see your doctor and get prenatal care as soon as you think you're pregnant. It's important to see your doctor regularly throughout pregnancy, so be sure to keep all your prenatal care appointments.

and...

Breastfeeding is the healthiest choice for both you and your baby. Talk to your doctor, your family and friends, and your employer about how you choose to feed your baby and how they can support you in your decision.

C Cigarette smoking during pregnancy can result in low birth weight babies. It has been associated with infertility, miscarriages, tubal pregnancies, infant mortality and childhood morbidity. Additionally, cigarette smoking may cause long-term learning disabilities. If you smoke, you should try to quit. Secondary smoke may also harm a mother and her developing baby. It is a good idea to ask people to stop smoking around you during your pregnancy and after the baby is born.

D Drink extra fluids (water is best) throughout pregnancy to help your body keep up with the increases in your blood volume. Drink at least 6 to 8 glasses of water, fruit juice, or milk each day. A good way to know you're drinking enough fluid is when your urine looks like almost-clear water or is very light yellow.

E Eat healthy to get the nutrients you and your unborn baby need. Your meals should include the five basic food groups. Each day you should get the following: 6-11 servings of grain products, 3-5 servings of vegetables, 2-4 servings of fruits,
4-6 servings of milk and milk products, 3-4 servings of meat and protein foods. Foods low in fat and high in fiber are important to a healthy diet.

F Take 400 micrograms of folic acid daily both before pregnancy and during the first few months of pregnancy to reduce the risk of birth defects of the brain and spine. All women who could possibly become pregnant should take a vitamin with folic acid, every day. It is also important to eat a healthy diet with fortified foods (enriched grain products, including cereals, rice, breads, and pastas) and foods with natural sources of folate (orange juice, green leafy vegetables, beans, peanuts, broccoli, asparagus, peas, and lentils).

G Genetic testing should be done appropriately. It's important to know your family history. If there have been problems with pregnancies or birth defects in your family, report these to your doctor. Also, genetic counselors can talk with you about the information you might need in making decisions about having a family. You can call a major medical center in your area for help in finding a board-certified genetic counselor.

H Hand-washing is important throughout the day, especially after handling raw meat or using the bathroom. This can help prevent the spread of many bacteria and viruses that cause infection.

I Take 30 milligrams of iron during your pregnancy as prescribed by your doctor to reduce the risk of anemia later in pregnancy. All women of childbearing age should eat a diet rich in iron.

J Join a support group for moms to be, or join a class on parenting or childbirth.

K Know your limits. Let your physician know if you experience any of the following: pain of any kind, strong cramps, uterine contractions at 20-minute intervals, vaginal bleeding, leaking of amniotic fluid, dizziness, fainting, shortness of breath, palpitations, tachycardia (rapid beating of the heart), constant nausea and vomiting, trouble walking, edema (swelling of joints), or if your baby has decreased activity.

L Legal drugs such as alcohol and caffeine are important issues for pregnant women. There is no known safe amount of alcohol a woman can drink while pregnant. Fetal alcohol syndrome , a disorder characterized by growth retardation, facial abnormalities, and central nervous system dysfunction, is caused by a woman's use of alcohol during pregnancy. Caffeine, found in tea, coffee, soft drinks and chocolate, should also be limited. Be sure to read labels when trying to cut down on caffeine during pregnancy. More than 200 foods, beverages, and over-the-counter medications contain caffeine!

M Medical conditions/complications such as diabetes, epilepsy, and high blood pressure should be treated and kept under control. Ask your doctor about any medications that may need to be changed or adjusted during pregnancy. If you are currently taking any medications ask your doctor if it is safe to take them while you're pregnant. Also, be sure to discuss any herbs or vitamins you are taking. They are medicines, too! Discuss with your doctor all medications, prescribed and over-the-counter, that you are taking.

N Now is the time to baby-proof your home. These are important tips for making your home a safer environment for your baby.

O Over-the-counter cough and cold remedies may contain alcohol or other ingredients that should be avoided during pregnancy. Ask your health care provider about prescription or over-the-counter drugs that you are taking or may consider taking while pregnant.

P Physical activity during pregnancy can benefit both you and your baby by lessening discomfort and fatigue, providing a sense of well-being, and increasing the likelihood of early recovery after delivery. Light to moderate exercise during pregnancy strengthens the abdominal and back muscles, which help to improve posture. Practicing yoga, walking, swimming, and cycling on a stationary bicycle are usually safe exercises for pregnant women. But always check with your doctor before beginning any kind of exercise, especially during pregnancy.

Q Queasiness, stomach upset and morning sickness are common during pregnancy. Foods that you normally love may make you feel sick to your stomach. You may need to substitute other nutritious foods. Eating five or six small meals a day instead of three large ones may make you feel better.

R Rodents may carry lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV). If a pregnant woman is infected with LCMV, it can pass to the unborn baby and cause severe abnormalities or loss of the pregnancy. Avoid all contact with rodents, including pet hamsters and guinea pigs, and with their urine, droppings and nesting materials throughout pregnancy. Mice in the home should be removed promptly by a professional pest control company or another member of the household. Pet rodents should be housed in a separate part of the house where other household members or friends can care for the pet and clean its cage. For more information, see http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvrd/spb/mnpages/dispages/lcmv/qa.htm

S Saunas, hot tubs, and steam rooms should be avoided while you are pregnant. Excessive high heat may be harmful during your pregnancy.

T Toxoplasmosis is an infection caused by a parasite that can seriously harm an unborn baby. Avoid eating undercooked meat and handling cat litter, and be sure to wear gloves when gardening.

U Uterus size increases during the first trimester, which, along with more efficient functioning of your kidneys, may cause you to feel the need to urinate more often. You may also leak urine when sneezing, coughing or laughing. This is due to the growing uterus pressing against your bladder, which lies directly in front of and slightly under the uterus during the first few months of pregnancy. If you experience burning along with frequency of urination, be sure to tell your doctor.

V Vaccinations are an important concern for pregnant women. Get needed vaccines before pregnancy. CDC has clear guidelines for the use of vaccines during pregnancy. Review the list and be sure to discuss with your doctor.

W Being overweight or underweight during pregnancy may cause problems. Try to get within 15 pounds of your ideal weight before pregnancy. Remember, pregnancy is not a time to be dieting! Don't stop eating or start skipping meals as your weight increases. Both you and your baby need the calories and nutrition you receive from a healthy diet. Be sure to consult with your doctor about your diet.

X Avoid X rays. If you must have dental work or diagnostic tests, tell your dentist or physician that you are pregnant so that extra care can be taken.

Y Your baby loves you, and you should show your baby that you love her, too. Give your baby a healthy environment to live in while you are pregnant. Infants and children require constant care and guidance. Their health and safety should be carefully watched at all times. Refer to the link above for tips on safe and healthy child care.

Z Get your ZZZZZZZZZ's...Be sure to get plenty of rest... Resting on your side as often as possible, especially on your left side is advised, as it provides the best circulation to your baby and helps reduce swelling.

Disclaimer: Please consult your doctor on any and all issues regarding your pregnancy. Although these may be good general pregnancy tips, every pregnancy is different, and each deserves the attention of a doctor or health care provider.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,1600 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30333, U.S.A
Public Inquiries: 1-800-CDC-INFO (232-4636); 1-888-232-6348 (TTY)

Reprinted from the CDC

Congratulations!

2007-08-11T17:02:00.000-04:00

Congratulations you're going to have a baby! You will have to start, if you already haven't, taking the right steps to give your baby a healthy start. The best advice would be that in order to give your baby the very best start, you should start eating eating and living healthy before you even conceive. But as we all know, that is not always the case, where as to half of all pregnancies aren't planned. That being said, it's never to late to start!

You will need to have regular visits with your health care provider. These prenatal care visits are very important for your baby and yourself. Some things you might do when you are pregnant could hurt your baby, such as smoking or drinking. Some medicines can also be a problem, even ones that a doctor prescribed. You will need to drink plenty of fluids and eat a healthy diet. In early pregnancy, you may get morning sickness, or nausea. You may also be tired and need more rest.

Your body will change as your baby grows during the nine months of your pregnancy. Don't hesitate to call your health care provider if something is bothering or worrying you.

WELCOME!

2007-08-11T15:22:00.000-04:00

Welcome To Exotic Mommie's Parenting and Pregnancy blog. Our blog is geared toward women of color and our goal is to bring you the best information to our members and readers in regard to trying to conceive, pregnancy, parenting, health and beauty. So feel free to browse the site.

Thanks!

Exotic Mommie

"Purple Fun" - Blogger XML Template

2007-08-11T06:48:00.001-04:00

With There being so little, feminine templates in XML, I figured I would start making some, so this and the one that I am using for this blog, are my first. Enjoy!

Download

How to install your template

*note*It is Highly Recomended that if you have widgets on your blog already in place, that you save the code.

Click on the Download Link
Extract Files from zipped folder
Upload the images in the folder to photosbucket or imageshack.(I recommend Imageshack since photobucket resizes larger images.)
Go to your Blogger Layout - Edit HTML
Upload the XML File from the place where you saved it.

6. Put Image Url Links in appropriate place in Code.

7. Preview and then Save.

"Icy Blue" - Blogger XML Template

2007-08-11T06:39:00.000-04:00

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Template Installation Instructions

"Pink Fantasy" - Blogger XML Template

2007-08-10T23:49:00.000-04:00

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Template Instructions

"Locha Mocha" - Blogger XML Template

2007-08-10T07:54:00.001-04:00

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About

2007-08-09T21:51:00.003-04:00

Our goal is to bring the best information to mothers of color in regard to trying to conceive, pregnancy, parenting, health and beauty. Pregnancy and mother hood is a beautiful thing. So be proud that you are an Exotic Mommie.

We also offer free Blogger XML Templates at Candy's Blogger Template s.

So please feel free to browse the site, and look through the topics that interest or pertain to you.