The Sistah Cafe

The Sistah Cafe Has MOVED!!

2013-05-24T20:16:00.000-07:00

Greetings Faithful Sistah Cafe Reader!

The Sistah Cafe has moved to a new location! We are re-branding with a whole new look and feel. Please pop on over to The NEW Sistah Cafe! Be sure to join our new mailing list when you get there so that you can stay update to date with all things related to Natural Hair - Atlanta - Life

Here is a link ~~~> The NEW Sistah Cafe

Please let me know what you think.

I Will no Longer be posting here!!

Thanks for reading!

Peace :-)

R & B Diva's Red Carpet 2nd Season Premiere Party

2013-05-04T18:27:00.001-07:00

I hadn't planned on attending this event, but somehow I ended up there in VIP (Thanks Sherita). Like some kind of weird dream, there I was suddenly knee deep in reality TV show divas! I won't lie some of the reality shows especially those that involve "wives" are my guilty pleasure. You can go discuss the morality of the shows characters with someone else. I must admit that I am not that familiar with TV One's R n B Diva's at all. All I know is that I sat next to Nicci Gilbert the whole night. (I used to love me some Brownstone!) Some I recognized some I didn't but I had a great time none the less and the Museum Bar was great. Check out my pics.

w/Mama Dee from Love & Hip Hop ATL

Lovely Chicks
Oh Nikka and The V-Bar Lady

Chanita Foster from VH 1's Football Wives

w/Mariah from Married to Medicine

w/ Nicci Gilbert from R&B Divas

Designer Sir Algernon

w/ designer Dia Bocage

w/ the beautiful Oh Nikka

Do you have a favorite reality TV star? Go ahead and list them, I won't tell anyone that you watch too!

The May FitChick Challenge

2013-04-30T21:22:00.001-07:00

I swore that I'd never ever get involved in any online "challenges". There are a LOT of them. You've got Cinnamon Challenges, Hair Growth Challenges, Instagram Daily Pic Challenges, Salad Challenges, you name it and there's a "challenge" for it. So when I got an email from my fellow blogging colleague @4cHairChick about another "challenge" I won't lie, I rolled my eyes. But then I actually took the time to read what she was proposing and by the time I got done reading I was ALL in.
Welcome to The May FitChick Challenge!
...this is not your typical fitness challenge. There is no weightloss goal, there are no excercise goals, and there are no diet goals. This challenge is different. This challenge is not about the moment, tomorrow or even this month. This challenge is about our quality of life, our future, and our ability to make an impact. ~@4cHairChick

For the entire month of May, I the SistahChick, promise to make small adjustments everyday in an effort to begin to improve my emotional, mental and physical health.

Because I like this idea so much, I even took things a step further by volunteering to be a "Fit Chick Ambassador" along with @4ChairChick and 3 other bloggers! Together we will cheer you on and motivate YOU as we also improve ourselves during this challenge. Meet each Fit Chick Ambassador, follow us all on twitter and "like" our facebook pages for motivation, inspiration and updates!

Me!

Twitter: @TheSistahChick

Facebook: The SistahChick & Our Natural Kids

Our Host!

Twitter: @4CHairChick

FaceBook: 4C Natural Hair Chicks

Curlfriend!

Twitter: @TheCocoNatural

Facebook: Natural Hair Freedom

Curlfriend!

Twitter: @NaturalHairAds

Facebook: Natural Hair in the Media

The hardest part about setting any goal is simply getting started. Join Us on this challenge and kick start your healthy lifestyle!! You can join by visiting my sistahfriends page May FitChick Challenge.

Don't forget to "like" each of our pages!

Happy May!

Atlanta Natural Hair Care Professional (ANHC Pro) Lunch

2013-04-30T05:32:00.000-07:00

Atlanta Natural Hair Care is Georgia's Resource for Natural Hair Care. Its online social network consists of people with a variety of natural hair experiences.

ANHC Pro is their group of professional stylists. Through professional services including education, marketing, and advocacy Atlanta Natural Hair Care, Inc. helps foster the growth and professionalism of Atlanta's natural hair care industry. ~ atlanta-hair.ning.com

Every 3rd Sunday they meet for lunch and learn about ideas, products, services, issues, and events that are relevant to the natural hair care.

As Social Media Partner for ANHC I get the unique opportunity to attend and listen in on these sessions. Atlanta Natural Hair Care is doing wonderful things in the natural hair community in Georgia and I am pleased to be able to bring them to you.

April's installment of ANHC's Pro Lunch Series focused on the business basics of natural hair care. Educator and Salon Owner, Nekesa J. Smith, spoke to the attendees about how to use their skills to expand into other areas of the hair care industry.

Not only has Nekesa created her own line of products but she also has a non profit organization and is writing a book among other things.

A light lunch was served as members listened and also asked question.

World's Top Natural Hair model, Jessica Williams, was in attendance to talk to us about her duties and to give away 2 tickets to Taliah Waajid's World Natural Hair Health & Beauty Show.

ANHC Pro Lunch ended with face to face networking.

World's Top Natural Hair Model Jessica Williams and Elaine Truesdale of ANHC

If you are a stylist in Atlanta who is interested in learning more about natural hair care and growing your business check out Atlanta Natural Hair Care Professional.
For more info on Atlanta Natural Hair Care and all that it has to offer, please click here

To see more pics from the ANHC Pro Lunch (April) click here

Have a Terrific Tuesday!

2013-04-30T04:55:00.000-07:00

Fro Fashion Week Spring-Summer 2013 - Bloggers, Brands & Brunch

2013-04-07T16:50:00.000-07:00

Bloggers, Brands & Brunch is an event that is a part of Fro Fashion Week. It brings together bloggers/vloggers who are at the top of their game in the Social Networking industry with up and coming bloggers who are just getting started or who are interested in knowing more about building their brands. This year's Guest Speaker was none other than the fabulous Chary Jay. Chary Jay is a You Tube all star who showcases her gorgeous face and natural tresses through her VERY popular YouTube Channel 160Days2Lose2. Chary Jay has over 50k subscribers and has it all figured out when it comes to building your brand and growing your audience. The setting for this brunch was the spacious Twisted Oaks restaurant located in the lobby of the Marriott Perimeter Center where the rest of the Fro Fashion Week festivities were being held.

@VarietyCurls

@CocoaReport & @NaturalHairintheMedia

Kinky Hair Affair

Fro Fashion Week CEO and Blogger's Brands & Brunch host Ms. Tarin Boone introduces us to the guest speaker, Chary Jay.

Here are a few of the key points that Chary Jay touched on during her keynote address:

Make sure that you are fresh!

There are so many bloggers and vloggers out there. Be sure that you presenting something unique and new.

Be honest!

Make sure that you are honest from the beginning and that you come across that way in your vids and posts

Collaborate with others!

Whether its other You Tubers or other Bloggers collaboration is a good way to stay fresh and promote your brand

Have Fun!

Remember to have fun doing what you do. Don't take yourself too seriously

Chary Jay gave many other tips of the trade and also advice.

Chary Jay

Some of the Brands that were in the house were Curls Unleashed and JessiCurl. There were many of Atlanta's top bloggers there as well. Bringing them all together for this brunch was genius.

You Tuber Black Onyx was there representing her Alikay Naturals Product line.

I learned so much from Chary Jay and really had a great time socializing and networking. Fro Fashion Week has many components. Blogger's Brands & Brunch is one of my favorites.

Click Here for the entire Fro Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2013 recap.
Click Here to see all of the pics from Bloggers, Brands & Brunch

Have you ever attended Fro Fashion Week? If so, what was your favorite part?

Atlanta Tastemaker Magazine's 1st Annual B. FAB Awards

2013-04-07T16:05:00.000-07:00

B. FAB stands for Bloggers in Fashion & Beauty. The B. FAB Awards Brunch brought to you by Atlanta Tastemaker Magazine was a celebration of Atlanta's top bloggers who have made amazing contributions to the fashion and beauty industry. (from the flyer) And OH what a celebration it was! Held inside the beautifully grungy Ambient Studio, Atlanta's urban warehouse district was the perfect contrasting backdrop for this trendy, upscale affair.

I love blogging. I love natural hair. I love my sisters. I love Atlanta. This was the place to be for me. Guests were invited to network and mingle during the buffet style brunch.

with my curlfriends
Julia of TruChatOnline.com and Nikka Shae of OhNikka.com

Most of the nominees are people that I already know and love. It was great to see them be honored. Its not easy being a blogger/vlogger and putting yourself out there for the world to critique. Much respect for them all.

Best Blogger Nominees
Lexi & Arkeedah

Best Vlogger Nominee
Mae aka Natural Chica

Best Vlogger Nominees
Kiki & Farrah of Mahogany Knots

Atlanta's natural hair community really embraced this event.

After all natural hair has been become synonymous with Fashion and Beauty.

Fan Favorite Nominee & Winner
Tarin Boone
CEO of Naturally Me Media (Fro Fashion Week)

The mellow sounds of a live band is what every event needs in my opinion.

The coolest thing ever was Social Box! Social Box is a unique Photo & Video booth that allows the event host to document what the guests are experiencing and thinking during the event!

Check me out inside the Social Box!

The awards portion was very organized and well executed. Guests were seated comfortably and treated to gift bags.

Between the presentation of the nominees and the announcement of the winners there was a fashion show. The models rocked the runway!

Best vlogger nominee and winner
Kela of Naturally Kela

I had a wonderful time at this event and will definitely attend again. Kudos to Atlanta Tastemaker Magazine for doing something different and putting on such an awesome upscale gathering. Congratulations to all of the nominees and especially to the winners. Events like these are why I love Atlanta.

To see more pictures CLICK HERE

What types of events do you like to attend in your area?

The 1st Annual Beauty Empowerment Panel at Spelman College

2013-03-29T07:10:00.001-07:00

I had the pleasure of attending the 1st Annual Beauty Empowerment Panel at Spelman this week. The event was outstanding. Presented by Design Essentials Natural, the topic was Black Hair in the Media. On the panel were a bevvy of natural hair advocates including professional stylists, a radio personality, popular bloggers, you tubers and beauty entrepreneurs.

from the flyer: Featured Panelists and attendees will discuss how the representation of black hair impacts pop culture and self esteem, including the acceptance and non acceptance of natural hair...

Upon entering Cosby Auditorium, each guest was treated to a light snack catered by Chic Fil A. We also received samples from the Design Essentials Naturals line and information.

Moderated by Design Essentials Director of Marketing, Tracey Gibson, the dialogue was open and I loved that.

The Panelists: Kiki of Mahoganyknots(YouTube), Deshonica Kerrie (Salon Owner),
Curlbox CEO Myleik Teele, Linda, Ripoll (Jet), Ebony Steele (Ricky Smiley Show)
Kim Walker (Journalist), Jamila Robinson (AJC)

Right out of the gate each panel member was asked who their influences were as children regarding hair and beauty. Most of the panelists said they were influenced by their mothers and grandmothers initially. As they grew older the influence became TV personalities and/or celebrities. MTV, Solid Gold, Janet Jackson, Vanessa Huxtable, and Diana Ross were all mentioned as early influences.

My takeaway: as a community we need to make sure that we are nurturing the self esteem of our youth and make DOUBLE sure that we provide positive images to influence them!

Spike Lee's movie, School Daze, was discussed. "Are the themes in the movie still relevant?". "Have you seen it and how did it affect you?" Most agreed that skin tone is STILL a major issue in the Black community and that the issues in the movie are still relevant. I remember seeing the movie when it first came out (1988) as a young college student taking a Black Film in America class at Indiana University. I was BLOWN away by it. To me it was such an accurate depiction of what was happening on campus at THAT time. And here we are 25 years later...

Of course you cannot discuss black hair in today's media without touching on the Gabby Douglas situation where "Black twitter" decided to focus on the hairstyle of the Olympic history making athlete instead of her God blessed athletic talent. All panelists agreed that was a pretty ridiculous thing to do. Shame on you "Black twitter"! The moderator asked this..."Is there too much emphasis placed on hair in the Black community?" What do you think?

There were several more great questions posed and each panelist gave open and honest opinions. They were knowledgeable and often shared personal details about their own hair journeys. The audience was filled with mostly Spelman students, bloggers and other natural hair advocates like Fro Fashion Week CEO, Tarin Boone.

Students were also given the opportunity to ask questions.

It ended with a meet and greet with the panelists. I could tell that the students really appreciated this event. They were so eager and happy to get up close and personal with the panelists. I believe that each person on the panel brought something different to the conversation and the young ladies really appreciated them being there.

Ebony Steele of The Rickey Smiley morning show
posing with a student/fan

Deshonica Kerrie sharing useful information

Curlbox CEO Myleik Teele

Kiki of MahoganyKnots with a student whose hair she admired

I even ran into my cousin, Shawn Dowdell, who was the photographer for this event!

Thank you Design Essentials for putting together such a diverse panel of ladies who were willing to share a little bit of themselves with youth who are not only continuing their education but doing so at one of America's oldest historically Black colleges for women. It was an honor to be there and a pleasure to see your affect on these girls.

How do you feel about Black hair in the media today? What are some of the issues that you are facing a Black woman with natural hair? Who influenced you? Let's keep the conversation going!!

Hair Dish with Jane Carter

2013-03-26T19:26:00.000-07:00

Hey! I heard that Jane Carter would be at Whole Foods discussing natural hair and doing product demos!!! Every single time I have run into to Jane Carter she has always been super nice. It was awesome to see her outside of a hair show with an intimate audience of people interested in her products. Along with Tress Talk, Jane told us all about her products and demonstrated them for us.

Since we are already fans of the Jane Carter line, we were happy to receive these cute little samples!

Our favorite Jane Carter products are the Nourish and Shine and the Revitalizing Leave In Conditioner Spray.

I really appreciate brands that are willing to get up close and personal with their customers. It is definitely a deciding factor for me of whether I continue to invest in their product or not.

Little Chick, Jane Carter, The SistahChick

One of the things that Jane stressed the most during this candid discussion was that everyone has different and unique hair textures. We should each learn what works for our hair!

What is your favorite Jane Carter product?

For more pics of this event ~~> Hair Dish w/Jane Carter

Natural Beauty at Georgia State University

2013-03-18T12:08:00.001-07:00

I had the pleasure of visiting Georgia State University last week along with Naturally Me! Media/Tarin Boone to meet and greet with some of the beautiful naturals that go there. We had a great time hanging out in the "quad"! It was awesome to see just how many naturals there are at Georgia State. From High Puffs, to Locs, to FroHawks, we saw it ALL! The young ladies were all eager to talk to us, take photos and uber excited about receiving their Curl Unleashed goodie bags for their participation. Here are some of the cool styles that we saw.

locs

Wash N Go

Twists into a Bun

Puff

Fro w/bow

Fly Fro

locs

city twists

Fro Hawk

Anytime that I can be involved with young people who are working to continue their education and better themselves is a good time, no matter the capacity. I am proud of all of these young sistahs and wish them much success in school and in life whether I know them or not.

for MORE pics click here The Natural Beauties of Georgia State University

Next stop Clark Atlanta University 3/28/2013 from 4p - 6 p! Hope to see you there!

What hairstyles were you rocking while you were in college!?

Fro Fashion Week Recap! Spring/Summer 2013

2013-03-16T18:55:00.001-07:00

Fro Fashion Week. Fro Fashion Week. Fro Fashion Week! ::screams!!:: Fro Fashion Week is Atlanta's premiere celebration of Natural hair, black beauty and fashion. This week long event is the brain child of Ms. Tarin Boone and was created in 2011 as an answer to the typical hair shows that exist here in Atlanta. Since its inception Fro Fashion Week has done nothing but grow and prosper. In my opinion its the best that the Atlanta natural hair community has to offer. Held bi annually, for one week in the Spring & 1 week in the Fall, Fro Fashion Week has become a networking platform for women who are bloggers, designers, writers, photogs, entrepreneurs, etc. This last installment "Acid Summer" was held at the beautiful Mariott Perimeter in Atlanta from February 25 through March 3, 2013. As a returning Press Supporter for the event, I had an ALL ACCESS Pass to EVERY thing from the Super Bowl Pre Party Weeks before to the closing interviews with some of the brands at the end. Enjoy the recap!!

The Ultimate SuperBowl Pre Party!

Weeks before the event Tarin Boone and her Fro Fashion Week Crew met up at a Superbowl Party held at Holiday Inn Atlanta (Perimeter) to spread the word about the event and also to give away a free ALL access pass to the festivities!

Tarin Boone, The SistahChick &
the All Access Pass Winner

An Atlanta Favorite Band
Gritz & Jelly Butter

Natural Hair in the Media & TruChatOnline.com

Click here for more pics of The Ultimate Superbowl Party!

Fro Fashion's Night Out!

This kick off party, hosted by the FABulous Nikka Shae of Oh Nikka and the stylish Kerrie Cook of Virtuous Styls, was held at the trendy Envy Boutique. There were a bevvy of natural hair beauties in the house. There were decadent desserts, contests, giveaways and of course the #FFW Photo Booth!

w/The Envy Boutique Owner

w/ Pretty Girls Rock Dresses

w/ Variety Curls Apparel

more pics of Fro Fashion Night Out!

I Love Me Because...I'm Different!!

This would be the Fro Fashion Week sanctioned kids event that was planned and presented by Julia Davis of Truchatonline.com and myself of The SistahChick and Our Natural Kids. I've already completed the recap for this event but here are just a few pics from it.

Click here to read more about it I Love Me Because I'm Different!

Activities/Sessions/Products

Saturday and Sunday was filled with everything your natural heart might desire. If you call yourself a product junkie and weren't there, then you missed out. One the things that I love most about Fro Fashion Week is the consumers ability to get up close and personal with the product brands and their creators. Several of the brands had suites like, Shea Moisure, Curls Unleashed and JessiCurl to name a few. Instructional classes were held covering Natural Hair in the Workplace, How to Build Your Brand, Training Hair to Retain Moisture, Transitional Styling and More! I really enjoyed the JessiCurl Focus group and Cocktail Hour for registered bloggers. It was also a reunion for those of us who never miss Fro Fashion Week!!

i LOVE these chicks!!
Haley (@HereisMySpout) Lisa (This Hair of Mine), @IamAudra3000) & Kinky Hair Affair!

Curls Unleashed Suite

Shea Moisture Total Body Suite

w/ Jessica McGuinty Ceo of JessiCurl

w/ brother sister team of OBIA hair care
Omini & Obia Ewah

Main Element: Love

TruChatOnline.com and Curl Collection Ceo

Easy Transition/Styling w/ DeShonica Kerrie

Click here to see more pics! Fro Fashion Week Sessions/Classes/Activities!

Fro Fashion Show!!

Oh it was dramatic!! An all white tent and 20 degree temperatures to start! But don't think for one second that it wasn't HOT, HoT, hOt! The Fro Fashion show is an event that is not to be missed! High Fashion. Independent Designers. Energy. Lights. Paparazzi and an MC that seemed to be dropped down from heaven by God! Oh it went down!!

w/ Coco Report and If I Were a Brit Girl

Click Here to see more pics! The Fro Fashion Show

The After Party!!

After the show its the... AfTeR PaRtY!! Time for us to let our natural hair down and kick it with CURLfriends!!

Click here to see more pics! After Party!!

Bloggers, Brands, Brunch

A luncheon for registered blogger with the fabulous Chary Jay as the guest speaker. This portion of Fro Fashion Week totally deserves a separate post and that is what i will give it. Here a couple pics but please stay tuned.

Bloggers & Brands

Keynote speaker: Chary Jay

Black Onyx

Click here to see more pics of Bloggers, Brands, Brunch

In closing, I must say that I am proud to be a selected Press Supporter of Fro Fashion Week. Ms Tarin Boone is an amazing young lady with a phenomenal mind for business and planning. Her and her supportive family and EVERY one associated with this ultimate celebration should give themselves a big hand for a job well done. The excitement of Fro Fashion Week continues as we get prepared for the next installment! I am uber excited about it and you will be too when you find out what Tarin has cooked up for us next!

Did you attend Fro Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2013? What were your favorite parts?

Recap ~ I Love Me Because... I'm Different!

2013-03-05T16:15:00.001-08:00

Memories of the I Love Me event still linger with me as I type this post. I can still see all of the smiling faces and I can hear the excited voices of all of the kids that were in attendance. I am so thankful to Julia Davis of Truchatonline.com for allowing me to plan and co host this event with her. I Love Me events are her brainchild and have been a part of Fro Fashion Week since 2012. All of the kids had a wonderful time there were even some grown kids who joined in on the fun!

Motivation! These are the signs for the photo booth. Positive words evoke positive behavior. Each child also wore name tags that reflected positive words instead of their name.

Black History Heroes presentation. Everyone who participated by reading about a Hero outloud received a prize! Reading out loud teaches the child how to speak publicly. It gives an opportunity to pronounce and enunciate words. Reading out loud about a Black History Hero instills pride and also learning.

Fitness! Zumba Instructor Amia Freeman spoke to the children about loving themselves and followed with a short Zumba session. Fitness is very important to keep minds healthy & fresh!

It's OK to be Different! Jessica McGinty Ceo of JessiCurl and Tarin Boone CEO of Naturally Me Media and creator of Fro Fashion Week spoke to the kids about self esteem. Hearing adults reflecting on things that they too had to deal with as kids made the kids understand that they could overcome adversity.

Positive Play! Promoting self love and esteem through positive play has been a key part of every I Love Me event. Here we see a mom assisting her child by decorating a face that looks like hers.

Prizes & Give Aways! Throughout the event prizes were given away from Our Natural Kids, Curl Collection, Fro Fashion Week and TruChatOnline.com. Each kid also received backpacks filled with hair product samples from JessiCurl and Shea Moisture plus MUCH more!

We really had a great time celebrating these children and showering them with love and attention. I hope they never forget this day. I know I wont.

Click here to see more pics! ~~~> Pics from I Love Me Because I'm Different!

Thanks for reading.

Peace.

Being 40 + and Natural

2013-02-26T06:32:00.002-08:00

Me with 2 of my blogging buddies from
Fro Fashion Week Spring 2012
The Fashionista Next Door and Hair Gurl

I am OVER 40 years old and PROUD of it. I look good AND I feel good. I decided to return to my natural roots when I was in my late 30's. I think its really cool to see younger naturals of today accepting their beauty now instead of waiting until they get older. In fact, my network Our Natural Kids was created to reach out to moms and kids. However, as a 40 plus natural in Atlanta I find that we are rarely represented or showcased and that's why I am proud to represent this niche in the natural hair community. 40+ naturals have a different set of issues to deal with when it comes to natural hair styling health and maintenance. Here are a few examples of the things that I have to deal with due to my age...

Gray Hair - Some people gray early. I started seeing a few gray hairs here and there starting in my late 30's. Now they are EVERYwhere! Gray hairs do not behave the same as my other hair. They are wiry and ornery.

Thinning Hair - My hair is sort fine or thin to begin with. I have been dealing with additional thinning hair for awhile.

Age appropriate styling - Do you really want to see me in 2 Afro puffs? I am not saying that I can't rock them in an appropriate situation. I just like to keep things mild for my tastes. My Choice.

Retaining Moisture - The older I get the dryer my hair seems to get.

Finding chicks in the natural hair community that are in my age group! Pleease don't get me wrong I looove my young chicas that allow me to hang with them at events, meet ups, shows etc. They accept me, they compliment me and they inspire me. But sometimes I feel like the older Auntee that's still trying to hang!! LOL But seriously...

There are many more that I deal with and I will get into some of my solutions to these issues in a later post. The bottom line is this. Ain't Nooobody getting younger. One day YOU will be over 40 years old. I am here to tell you that I don't think that I truly began to live life until I turned 40. I've never felt more alive and vibrant. I feel beautiful and I love myself. Don't fight aging. Be that Fine Wine. Go with the flow and enjoy life. I know I am and I intend to show you just how much! It's never too late to live your dreams!!

40+ naturals Talk to Me!! What are some of your natural hair issues that you feel you may be experiencing because of your age?

Preparing Your Child for the Loss of a Loved One

2013-02-22T06:32:00.000-08:00

I don't think that anyone is ever prepared for the loss of a loved one. My family experienced a loss last week. On February 12th, 2013 my husband lost his dear Mother. Although, she was elderly and ill losing her has not only been a horrible blow to us, but especially to our young daughter. She was not adequately prepared to witness this transition and I blame myself. After seeing her reaction to her grandmother laying in the casket I then realized that maybe I should have let her know that this was coming. Having attended very few funerals myself I don't think that I was prepared either. I'm Lutheran. In the Black Baptist Church funerals include:

A Viewing or Wake ~ This is where the body is laid out in an open coffin for all to view. Held at the funeral home

A Funeral or HomeGoing ~ The church service where we remember the deceased and the casket is closed and carried from the church

A Repass - After the body is taken to the cemetary, the family meets at the church for fellowship and dinner.

My daughter erupted in tears at the Wake and again at the funeral. I am sure the tears were from sadness, but I think some of them were also because she was scared and unprepared. I failed to tell her what to expect. I did not inform her that she would be seeing her grandmother's body. I did not tell her what a cemetery was. I could not prepare her seeing her father as he wept for his mother. Of course hindsight is 20/20. If I had it to do again, it would have definitely been different.

Here are few tips that I would recommend to get your child ready to deal with the loss of a loved one.

Explain life and death to your child.

I cant tell you how to go about doing this because we all have different belief systems. One thing that is constant no matter what you believe is that we live and we die. Explain this in your terms.

Talk to your child about what to expect at a funeral.

Again traditions vary but this can be a very shocking experience to a child that has no idea what happens.

Remember Your Love One.

Help your child to think about the good times they had with their loved one. Bring out old pictures. Talk about fun times from the past and pleasant memories. Encourage them to speak on what they remember.

Send a Note to School.

Explain to the administrators what has happened so that they will understand your child's possible behavior changes.

Allow your Child to be a part of the process.

I love the way my husband's family included the children in the services. Naming the grandsons as pall bearers and presenting the grand daughters with roses were just 2 of the ways that I believe helped the kids to cope by participating. The girls also all wore gold ribbons and the boys wore gold ties.

Hugs.

Hug your child. Its a simple gesture but when administered frequently can do wonders for understanding.

The funeral is over now, but the sadness still lingers. RIP to our dear Mother Juanita Taylor. Please pray for us as we go through this difficult time. I hope that you never have to experience such a loss. If you do, I hope that you find my tips helpful. Please share any tips you have in the comments, we would love to see them.

Thanks for reading.

Peace

Our Natural Kids Celebrates 3 Years!!

2013-02-10T00:36:00.001-08:00

Happy 3rd Anniversary to Our Natural Kids!!!

Since 2010 Our Natural Kids has done its part to promote natural hair health style and maintenance kids online! We have done this by providing a safe and private social networking platform where like minded parents can share information regarding natural hair care for children. Since 2010 our membership has grown to 1900+ members! We have gained two very knowledgeable professional contributors: Jamesha Bazemore of Natural Hair Care for Children and Keianna Johnson of Chi Chi Sophistication. We have also partnered with Afro Puffs & Ponytails - A wonderful organization that celebrates black girls. We have received sponsorship from the following companies: JessiCurl, OBI Natural Hair Care, Beauty & Glory by Tarece, Pura Body Naturals, SofNfree, Mixed Chicks, Dr. Kari Williams and Pretty Brown Girl
Our Natural Kids has also been included as sponsors for: Chocolate Chat Atlanta III and I Love Me Naturally Fall 2012. We now have members in EVERY state and in 10 Countries!

Speaking about Our Natural Kids at Chocolate Chat III

The LittleChick and I giving away a prize at
I Love Me Naturally Fall 2012

We have worked very hard to bring the natural hair community what it needs and we appreciate each and every one of our members. We are so excited about 2013 and have already embarked on some new endeavors with more to come. We are pleased to be working with Julia Davis of TruChatOnline.com for the next "I Love Me..." Event (02/28/2013). Stay tuned as we GROW!! For more on Our Natural Kids please join us today at www.OurNaturalKids.ning.com We would LOVE to have you!!

Thanks for your support and thanks for reading!

Peace

I Love Me Because...I'm Different!

2013-02-09T21:23:00.001-08:00

"I Love Me..." events are the brainchild of Julia Davis of TruChatOnline.com. Created to help promote self esteem for kids in a fun and safe environment. It is truly the celebration of children. Each event comes with a different theme. In 2012 my daughter and I attended two "I Love Me..." events:
"I Love Me and I Have the Right to Remain Curly" and "I Love Me Naturally - A Pajama Party"
My daughter loved these events so much that I decided to join Ms Davis in planning and sponsoring the next "I Love Me...." event.

In honor of children, natural hair, Valentine's Day AND Black History Month TruChatOnline.com and The SistahChick and Our Natural Kids presents... "I Love Me Because... I'm Different!"

This Fro Fashion Week sanctioned event will be held on February 28th, 2013 at the Smyrna Rec Center from 6:30pm to 9:30pm. Here are just SOME of the activities that we have planned for the kids:

*Arts & Crafts

*Motivational Speaker

*Black History Month Heroes Contest

*Self Esteem Building projects

*Zumba

*Vendors

*Give Aways

*AND MORE!

This is a FREE event! Atlanta, Join us on 2/28 for a fun filled evening that focuses on the kids by teaching them to celebrate their uniqueness!

http://www.truchatfrofashion.eventbrite.com/

Thanks for reading.

Peace

Master Your Kinks Workshop at Darcy's Botanicals

2013-02-03T21:41:00.001-08:00

I was so excited to be invited to attend the Master Your Kinks natural hair workshop at Darcy's Botanicals, A Hair and Body Care Boutique located in Marietta, Ga.

The event was hosted by:

Lysandra Taylor - Owner of Darcy's Botanicals

Telise Adams - Director of Education for Darcy's Botanicals

Hayley Dennis, Owner of Ma Mocha Naturals

This was the 1st in a series of educational workshops that will be presented to teach naturals how to care for and style their own natural hair through hands on training.

The topic of today's Master Your Kinks Session was "Bantu Knots"

Bantu Knots

Telise was very thorough in demonstrating how to do Bantu Knots. She also showed how Darcy's Botanicals Hair Care line could be used for this style.

Once the demonstration was complete every attendee was off to their own stations to practice the technique on their own hair!

A DJ spun music in the background and prizes were given away every half hour.

Prize Winners!

Gourmet Food was served courtesy of Chef Dontrell of Bon Vivant Private Catering.

Marinated Vege Salad w/Arugula
& Fetta Viniagrette

I had always wanted to visit Darcy's Botanicals ever since I heard that they opened a storefront in Atlanta. I was very pleased to find a very inviting atmosphere and welcoming people who seemed eager to assist and who were very positive energy wise.

Darcy's Botanicals Owner Lysandra Taylor & The SistahChick

I cant wait to try the products that were included in my goodie bag! Stay tuned for a review!

For more Master Your Kinks Pics

Click Here

Thanks for reading!

Peace :-)

The "N" Word - A Commentary

2013-02-01T16:45:00.000-08:00

NIGGER

(Merriam - Webster Online)

Main Entry: nig·ger

Pronunciation: \ˈni-gər\

Function: noun

Etymology: alteration of earlier neger, from Middle French negre, from Spanish or Portuguese negro, from negro black, from Latin niger

1: usually offensive; a black person

2: usually offensive; a member of any dark-skinned race

3: a member of a socially disadvantaged class of persons

As early as the 1600's the word Nigger or variations of it can be found in various communications between New World Settlers and Explorers. The word itself is derived from the Latin word Niger and merely means "Black". The word was not considered derogatory until the advent of American Slavery. Its usage by American Slave Owners as a negative term to describe African Slaves is what catapaulted it into the unfavorable connotation that it carries today. The" N-word" as it is referred to today, now carries with it, a history that no other word in the English language shares. The mere mention of it reveals a past of hatred, genocide, human slavery and torture. It is no longer a word that innocently describes a color, but a word used to negatively describe a race of people.

In an effort to take the sting from the word's 300 year evil past, African Americans in todays society, use a variation of it (Nigga) to refer to one another. It is used amongst fellow Blacks as a term of endearment and brotherhood. The phrase: "Whats up my Niggas!?" when used amongst Blacks is merely a salutation used to greet people who are considered family, or friends. However, once the word leaves the lips of a non Black person it again becomes a negative backed by a history of slavery.

Should the N-Word ever be used by anyone?

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

We live in a day and age, where the word is considered to be a derogatory term in most circles. It could possibly take another couple hundred years, before the word can be restored back to its original meaning (black).

As members of 21st century American society, our knowledge of the N-word only has the one meaning to most of us. Whether it started out as a term used to describe a color or not, that is not what it means to the majority when uttered now.

To My Brothers and Sisters of Color: I think that we, have more to define ourselves than just our beautiful skin tones. Our skin is merely an indicator of the region where our ancestors come from. It should be worn proudly and with honor, no matter what color it is. It should not, however be the sole defintion of another human being. Instead of referring to ourselves as "Niggas!" Replace the word with Scholars! Soldiers! Brothers! Teachers!, Sisters!, Homegirls! Queens!, Kings!, Leaders!, Entrepreneurs!, Mothers!, Fathers!

We ARE more.

To My Brothers and Sisters who are NOT of Color: The word is NEVER appropriate for you to use. No matter the context.

Happy Black History Month!

Thanks for reading

10 Reasons Why You Should Not Continue To Have Sex With A Man That Will Not Marry You

2013-01-30T11:23:00.001-08:00

Listen ladies. After listening to several conversations had by my female relatives and friends ...I felt the need to create this list. This list ONLY applies to those of you that want to be in committed relationships and/or get married. If you dont...? Not for you. I aint got nothing against single people hooking up with no strings IF that is what they BOTH want. This is for those of you who are in long term-sex mostly-aaand you want more relationships. Capiche?

Reason #1: STD's. If he is continuing to do you without real commitment, then he is doing someone else too. This is how diseases spread.

Reason #2: Guys don't typically "wife" their F&%*Buddies. ok?

Reason #3: How are you going to feel when he proposes to the next chick that's not giving it to him?

Reason #4. You are worth more than that.

Reason #5: He does not respect you. Especially if he knows that he can't or won't give you what you want. A real man would not do this.

Reason #6: Nobody gets younger. Yes we are aging every day. Don't waste your youth and your beauty on a man that only wants to pleasure himself with you.

Reason #7: What is in it for you to keep doing this? You already know that he cant give you what you want. Sex will not change his mind.

Reason #8: While you're wasting time with him, there could be someone else out there waiting for you.

Reason #9: Make no mistake...He IS using you.

Reason #10: You deserve better.

There are a THOUSAND more reasons, but these are my best 10. Feel free to add more reasons in the comments. For those who needed this... I hope it helps you think about your worth.

Thanks for reading.

Peace

The Unemployed Chronicles - The Early Days

2013-01-28T21:40:00.001-08:00

Sooooo I lost my job!! Got "job eliminated" after 17 years of dedicated service. Technically its only been 4 days, but since I have never been without a job it seems like a lifetime and it feels kind of weird. Of course I have to blog about this. I am going through a range of emotions. At first I was angry and then I got really scared. That was the 1st hour. Then I realized that I was actually off for the rest of the day. Oh yeah? After months of working 7 days a week at a rate of 80+ hours per week my mind could not comprehend what this meant. Let me see if I understand. You want me to leave? aaand you are gonna pay me while I figure out who I am and what I want to really do with my life? I'm trying to find a problem with this... but I cant.

Day 1: First things first... Let's eat some pancakes. Yeah I know, butter, syrup all bad. But I lost my job yo! I ate them effin pancakes...then got some more. Damn you Aunt Jemima!!

Day 2: Today was a blur of more comfort food and Netflix videos...and I picked up applications everywhere I went!

Day 3: I spent day 3 at the dentist getting stuff done that should have been done. I'm smiling in this picture, cheesin actually... but you cant tell because my entire face has been numbed and they gave me those shades. I got the nerve to STILL think I'm cute! Whatever.

Sistah at the dentist

OMG when did I order all of these shoes from Coach? Don't do that ya'll.

Day 4: You know what...?? I'm going to a meet up! This one focused on Technology and Business seems right up my alley and right in time! Thank you Chocolate Chat Atlanta!

This photo is courtesy of @SwarthyDaisy

All in all, I am SO excited about what my future holds and I am uber eager to delve into what I love to do! Just as one door has closed windows are already popping open everywhere!

Stay tuned for so much more from me and as always, thank you for reading.

Mammograms, Blood Draws & Paps.. Oh My! Women's Health

2013-01-28T18:33:00.000-08:00

In the past year I have had two cancer scares. Its true. My gyn found something on my uterus last March and 6 months later my family doctor found a lesion on my lung. Both were completely benign but I am so glad that having the routine check ups enabled them to be found, examined and ruled out. Its a very scary thing to have the Dr tell you that anything has to be looked at again or that things have to be "ruled out". Please go to the Dr. if you can and get yourself checked out for everything. I passed my mammogram with flying colors and even though it hurts like hell I go faithfully. I share this personal thing with you today because I have a voice and as a Black woman I know that we are often apprehensive about our health and the unknown. I don't need a special month to focus on this topic because to me EVERY month is Women's Health Month. Don't be afraid. Go on and get those check ups TODAY! Early detection is everything.

I've got a couple of other health issues that WILL be taken care of in 2013. Stay tuned for my journey.

3 of my most important reasons to get and stay healthy!
My Children

Thanks for reading!

Chocolate Chat Atlanta - Technology for Business Professionals

2013-01-27T19:35:00.002-08:00

When I heard that it was time for Chocolate Chat Atlanta's 1st event of the year, I could not wait to get there! Chocolate Chat Atlanta does not disappoint when it comes to throwing fantastically informative meetup type events for the metro Atlanta community. Our host @SwarthyDaisy did it again by bringing us Terrance Gaines aka @BrothaTech to talk to us about Technology for Business Professionals. Terrance is the Chief Gadget Officer of BrothaTech.com and I was eager to absorb everything that he had to say.

We were greeted and promptly seated upon arrival. Each guest received a lovely portfolio that included everything needed to take notes and network at this event. PLUS a bag of what else??? CHOCOLATE!

@BrothaTech spoke to us about some of the key things we needed to know when it comes to choosing a device. He also recommended the best apps to use for entrepreneurs on the go. He even went a step further and talked to us about how some of the apps could be used with different devices. It was really cool because we were able to follow along with his presentation on our ipads/tablets as he talked. He took questions at the end.

@BrothaTech

Marlee's Coffee & Tea House served a light dinner with select choices from their menu. (This was included in the ticket price.)

And of course no Chocolate Chat is complete without the networking... An evening well spent!

For more info on Chocolate Chat Atlanta, please check out their FB page
https://www.facebook.com/ChocolateChatAtlanta?fref=ts

For more pics of this event please check out The SistahChick & Our Natural Kids !!

Thanks for reading!!

Fro Fashion Week Fall 2012

2012-12-31T20:49:00.002-08:00

I wanted my last post of 2012 to be about something that I know, love and am glad to be a part of.... Fro Fashion Week - Atlanta. Fro Fashion Week is an Atlanta based event that is the brain child of Ms. Tarin Boone. It is a bi annual week long celebration of natural black beauty. Since its inception, founder Tarin Boone has taken special care to showcase not only the beauty of African American women, but also to promote black business and networking along with fashion and entertainment. I have been attending Fro Fashion Week since Fall 2011 and I am honored to have been selected as a Lead Press Supporter for the last 2 installments of this event (Spring 2012 & Fall 2012). PLUS I just found out recently that I have been selected as Lead Press Supporter again for Fro Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2013!! Being a Lead Press Supporter gives me front row and backstage access to ALL of the components of the event. Please enjoy just a few of the many moments that were captured during the Fall 2012 show!!

Fro Fashion Week plays host to MANY beauty professionals and products lines and brings you the best workshops available:

The Blogger's Brunch is one of the many highlights of Fro Fashion Week. It brings together subject matter experts and bloggers who interested in growing their personal brand into a money maker. Fall 2012 brought us the guru behind MattieOlogie.com Mattie James. We learned so much. A key piece that stood out to me was her definition of how to use your VOICE as it relates to blogging/branding.

V ~ Verify if this is really what you want to be doing! You need to love this to be successful at it.
O ~ Offer yourself on a silver platter to your audience! give them your best & they will respond!
I ~ Invent yourself! Your blog may start out being one thing and end up being another. (It's ok!)
C ~ Challenge yourself
E - Expect to Win!!

We were all very inspired!

After a long and exciting day of activities, seminars and Bloggers Brunch, its time to let our natural hair down at the Fro Fashion Week Penthouse party!! The Penthouse at the Melia hotel has the entire Atlanta City Skyline as its backdrop. The view is amazing at night!!

Last but certainly not least there is the fiercest fashion show out there and the grande finale of this culmination of fashion and natural beauty.

Fro Fashion Week Founder Tarin Boone (right)

I hope that you enjoyed the recap. for more on Fro Fashion Week, please check out http://frofashionweek.com/

To see more pics:

Penthouse Party!

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.414170541972211.118626.170493373006597&type=3

Bloggers Brunch!

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.412952262094039.118251.170493373006597&type=3

Workshops

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.411450592244206.117887.170493373006597&type=3

Fashion Show:

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.436450499744215.123159.170493373006597&type=3

To see more of what you have been missing check out my previous Fro Fashion Week Blog Post!

Previous Fro Fashion Week ReCaps

I hope that you have had a joyous 2012 and wish you a prosperous 2013. Thank you so much for showing your support by reading my blog this year. Please come back often!

Peace!

I Heart Handbags!

2012-11-04T15:06:00.000-08:00

I don't know exactly what my fashion style is. I just buy what I like. I consider myself to be a funky 40+ chick and I think my style is fun. I'll let the more established fashion bloggers tell you whats in and whats out. I'll just show you what I like, and I hope you like it too!

Two years ago I went on a mission to replace all of my handbags with designer bags. I did it by color, first replacing my black bags with real leather bags. Then I moved to the browns, reds and miscellaneous. Why? I don't know. A friend of mine got me a Coach bag as a gift and I've been hooked ever since. My other bags simply paled in comparison. Now I am obsessed with recreating my collection with designer or designer looking alternatives and I must say... I'm having a ball! Here are a few of my favorite finds so far!

Coach Zoe
(Gun Metal)

Coach Soho
(Chestnut Brown)

Coach Pleated Soho
(Black)

I simply adore all of these bags and the 3 colors match pretty much everything I have. I got them all at a Coach Outlet so they were all heavily discounted. The leather is soft and amazing. These are not enormous bags, which I like. I feel that they can all be carried during any season.

Michael Kors Tote
(Cheetah/Canvas)

I love a little animal print in the summers and this MK Canvas bag is light weight and perfect for warmer months. TJ Maxx is where I found this lovely tote.

Jessica Simpson Satchel
(Navajo)

Nothing like a little faux fur to spice up your winter. This bag is fun.. and it holds a lot! Another gem that was found at TJ Maxx.

Well I am off to hunt for more bags!

Thanks for reading

I Love Me Naturally ~ Fall 2012

2012-10-02T20:28:00.002-07:00

I Love Me, Naturally is an empowerment event for girls presented by TruChatOnline.com. Sanctioned as part of Fro Fashion Week Fall 2012 this event focused on our young divas. I am a HUGE fan of natural hair related events that I can attend with my daughter. "I Love Me..." does not disappoint. As a matter of fact, I am not sure who had more fun, me or my child!! It was set up as a really fun pajama party and we had a ball!

Julia of TruChatOnline.com telling us about all of the fun things she has planned for us!

Motivational speaker and encourager @GeechieGurltm had some great icebreaker activities for us to participate in. She talked to the girls about birthing ideas and carrying them through to fruition in a fun way.

Fro Fashion Week creator, Tarin Boone spoke on the importance of celebrating our little divas as part of the excitement, glitz & glamour of Fro Fashion Week.

We did arts and crafts. All was geared towards African American girls. There was a diverse set of crafting materials available.

As one of the sponsors of this event, my LittleChick and I got to pick the winner of the RunwayWalk, We chose this little cutie and presented her with a gift bag full of goodies on behalf of Our Natural Kids!

Jess McGuinty, CEO of JessiCurl, is always a hit with the kids. Not only did her company sponsor giveaways for this event but she also spoke on the troubles that she had as a young girl because of her thick, curly red hair.

She made sure that everyone had temporary tattoos of the JessiCurl logo. here they are showing them off!

Thank you to Julia of TruChatOnline.com, Tarin Boone of Fro FashionWeek, JessiCurl and GeechiGurlTM plus all of the attendees for showing us all such a wonderfully fun time!!

For more pics check out our FB Fan Page below

The SistahChick & Our Natural Kids