Hearing a child laugh is a sound that is so beautiful. It is something that I, for one, would not get tired of hearing. Children are so innocent and pure. Nothing makes the heart smile more than to hear the laughter of children. When I hear a child laugh it makes me feel joy and happiness, right along with them.
Can you answer this? What compares to a child’s laughter?
Masking mandates for Covid-19 have lifted in many places and some are still in the process of slowly easing the use of masks. It is like a ‘coming out’ of the world. We get to see everyone’s entire faces. We have been so used to keeping our nose and mouths covered, now it’s a whole new ball game. Since our whole face is out there for all to see, we have to be mindful of certain things.
I realize that it is still too soon for many people. Some are just not quite ready to take the mask off. That is understandable and a totally personal choice. There may be a time in the near future when masking will become a national mandate again. In the meantime, for those who have chosen to free their face take a look below for some friendly reminders. A few tidbits to help guide you through the day.
Number one. After lunchtime, take a look in the mirror and check your teeth. You don’t want to be smiling at everyone and you have a piece of green salad or a piece of burger stuck in between your teeth. This is not cute.
A very important thing to remember is to be mindful of our facial expression. At one time, hiding under the mask were our smiles, frowns, grimacing, chewing and possibly mumbling under our breath. People can see all of that now. Take a moment to remember that your emotions are on front street. People can see you. Some people can also read lips.
Another thing to think about is keeping lips moisturized. Now, I know that since we’ve been wearing our masks, we don’t really think about this as much. Because let’s face it, no one can see our lips with a mask on. Now that lips have made their debut in the world again it is a good idea to keep lips moist. We don’t want any chapped and cracked lips out there.
Mandates have been lifted but social distancing may still be a good idea, for a while. Err on the side of caution. It might be too soon to start shaking hands, social hugging and group gatherings.
Ladies, this one is especially for you. The days are gone when we had to hide behind a mask. What a better time to try a new lipstick shade. Look through your cosmetic case and dust off your glosses, lip sticks, and moisturizers. Better yet, buy some new ones. Whatever floats your boat.
Also, you might want to add some eyeshadow, or just foundation. On the other hand, some women have really embraced the natural look, and they’re not concerned with wearing makeup at all. And let’s face it, it’s better for the skin. If you can pull it off, then I say more power to you. Let your true self shine. But for those of us who have skin challenges, then there’s no shame in a little help. Do what you have to do.
It is so liberating and such a great feeling to be free of the mask. Wearing masks for 2, almost three years now has taken a toll on everyone. It feels very strange to actually see who people are again. Wearing masks was like a guessing game, wondering if you knew the person under the mask. It is not until they start speaking that we recognize a familiar voice, at times.
Show your hand, raise it high
Shyness has no place, let your aura shine
Block the naysayers, they will try to deny
The gold band protection, just like an alibi
Show your hand, raise it high
Let your positivity glow
Inspire people and make them smile
Where it comes from, they will never know
Show your hand, raise it high
When people feel like they can't
They look to you, see that it is possible
Doubt in their minds, start to recant
If the gold band gives you courage to muster
Your inner thoughts that make you fluster
Show your hand, raise it high
Gold band speaks for itself, no need to specify--O'Nika McGill--
Written in response to Sadje’s prompt, What Do You See #179
Homeownership is one of the staples of the American dream. You work hard, you save money and pay bills on time. So, why is the purchase of a home out of reach for some people? It is partly due to the banking industry and unfair lending practices. Also, this is attributed to bad consumer credit and lack of funds.
We are living in times of inflation; again. It makes it hard to stay on top of basic living expenses and amenities. However, in spite of inflation homeownership is achievable. So is good credit. We can start by trying to reduce our debt-to-income ratio. This is one of the factors banks use in the application approval process. Lowering debt-to-income ratio means to have more money coming in than going out. Many times we spend more and save and/or invest less.
Paying bills on time also boosts credit scores. If you are in the market to make a home purchase, you may want to pull your credit report. By doing so, you have the opportunity to check for accuracy and any errors that may be preventing you from obtaining a loan. Also, you can assess what accounts you need to pay off. Correcting errors on your credit report takes a little effort, but it is within your power to change it in the best interest of your financial future.
Did you know? It wasn’t until the early 70s that women were allowed to purchase property in their own name. In years before that, a women could not own property without her husband co-signing.
Homeownership is lacking within minority communities. That brings me to the Focus on Finance for Women’s History Month. Benaisha Poole-Watson fits the theme of ‘Women Telling Our Stories’. She is a catalyst in the real estate market and understands the challenges. Being the owner of Prime One Home Loans, she not only owns the bank but helps to educate about building wealth. She has created solutions for people who are having hardship with obtaining a home loan.
To add to that, she is also a military veteran. She has served in the United States Air Force. Mrs. Poole-Watson, among many other African American women, have broken down the barrier of women serving in the military. Let’s salute Benaisha Poole-Watson for her contribution to the country through her military service. Also, for opening doors and creating change and help in obtaining real estate.
Did you know? At one time, women were not allowed to serve in the military outside of kitchen and domestic duties.
Focus on finance for women’s history month and learn more about the inspiration of Benaisha Poole-Watson at Home – Benaisha Poole Watson
Image by Beate from PixabayListen to Grow Your Mental Recital
Growing your mental
Opens minds; developmental
Love and consciousness are life’s syllabus
The syllabus which teaches us
Leading with eyes only
Robs the soul and results to lonely
Lonely, pretentious and superficial
Love and meaning are most beneficial
Ask yourself when you look in the mirror
Do I manifest what I am seeking?
Searching hard for the answer brings you nearer
Realizing that arrogance, pride and conceit are what you are reeking
Maturity and mental growth
Brings us closer to an oath
That tells us life is about much more
Fulfillment, gratification and enrichment are in store
Exit the false prophecy
Visualize the hypocrisy
Newfound treasures appear before your eyes
Things unseen before suddenly materialize
Wow, what a surprise!
Grow Your Mental first appeared on Inspire By O'Nika, March 22, 2023
It’s Women’s History Month. Let’s talk about a female hip hop and funk group who was pivotal in these genres of the music.
What do you get when you add Angie B, Blondy and Cheryl the Pearl? Drumroll please… meet The Sequence. A trio of women from South Carolina who performed a fusion of hip hop and funk music. Angela Brown, Gwendolyn Chisolm and Cheryl Cook made up the first female group to release songs under Sugar Hill Records.
The most notable song by the group is “Funk You Up”, which came out in 1979. You may also remember the song, “Monster Jam with Spoonie Gee”. In the 90s Angela Brown aka Angie Stone later joined the music group Vertical Hold before going solo in 1999. She has also performed in theater, TV and movies.
Angie Stone-Mahogany Soul Album
Gwendolyn “Blondy” Chisolm and Cheryl “The Pearl” Cook released a single in 2011 titled, “On Our Way to the Movies”. The Pearl also wrote songs for the Sugar Hill Gang and scores of other artists. She went on to start her own company called Black Bottom Entertainment.
The Sequence is very important in the history of women, music and hip hop. Their first single topped the music charts for three weeks and went Gold. Other artists have sampled their music. Even though the hip hop genre is more prominent in NY, The Sequence held their own and made their mark being from the South. They have helped to lay the foundation for subsequent female hip hop groups and solo MCs, that we know and love.
The influence of The Sequence can still be felt and heard, even today. Give them their due for what they have laid down for women groups who came after them. For whatever reason, The Sequence has not been given the credit they deserve. When I think of The Sequence I think of a trio of inspiration and talent.
Can You Answer This? What Are the Benefits to Being Employed?
Being employed comes with many benefits. I know sometimes we complain about certain aspects of working, but it comes with its perks. Working affords us with options to support ourselves and our families. When we work, we have a sense of independence, achievement, responsibility and enjoyment. Being employed, whether self-employed or with a company is gratifying. Just think of what life would be without it. Of course, for the retired you have put in your years. It is now time for you to do with your life what you will and enjoy doing what your heart desires.
Experiencing people and interacting with others is a large part of being employed. We have some wonderful experiences and some less than nice ones. But either way we learn from all of them. We also get to save and/or invest money for later in life. Also, working helps us with medical expenses through healthcare plans provided by the company. Being employed gives us a sense of purpose in life too. We get up and feel like we are making a difference. While working, we can be creative, and this is great for mental and physical health.
Another plus is being able to enjoy the fruits of our labor. Going away for weekend trips and or vacations. Spoiling ourselves every so often. For some, it is just the sheer joy of keeping busy and doing something. It is important to try to strike a balance and not totally let work consume us. Enjoy life and have some fun too.
Can you answer this? What are the benefits to being employed? What do you say?
You know you have it good
When you are in the neighborhood
Being toted around town
Puppy pads not touching down
Taking in the sights
With much joy and delight
Watching everyone on their feet
Walking to the tune of life's beat
From a place of comfort, I watch
Relishing in this life
Letting the bunions breathe
I can take a reprieve
Sitting in my carrying tote
Feeling the breeze on my furry coat
Enjoying the beautiful scenery
The lush trees, flowers and greenery
This is the life, this is the life
March is Women’s History Month. There are some wonderful women out there making a true statement. These women have contributed to Arts and Science, Math, Entertainment, Education and various other areas.
Women’s History Month starts on March 1 and lasts for the entire month. Another important date this month is March 8th, International Women’s Day. Take a moment to celebrate what this day means to you.
The theme for Women’s History Month in 2023 is ‘Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories’. Every year the theme changes. This month became officially known as Women’s History Month in 1987. Before then, it was only a week-long occasion.
Women’s History Month is for taking note of progress and struggles of women, spanning back for years and years. Women now have the right to vote, get an education, join the military, among other achievements. Women still face discrimination in the workplace when it comes to wages. You do not have to be a woman to advocate for equity and inclusion. Everyone can ban together for this important cause to reduce and/or eliminate discrimination in the workplace. This can only have a positive outcome for the world at large.
It is important that people know and understand that women do not always have it easy. People may think that we have no worries, or we do not need to assert or apply ourselves. Don’t let looks fool you into thinking that we have things handed to us. Women work hard and juggle a lot. Some of us are mothers too. It is a joy to wear the hat of being a parent. Unfortunately, some people view motherhood as a crutch and therefore do not give all mothers the same chance as the male gender.
How Can You Celebrate Women Who Tell Our Stories?
Read about the motivating and inspiring stories that women have told through their sheer actions.
If you know someone who may benefit from hearing your own story, consider sharing, you just might save a life and inspire someone else to tell their story in the future.
Pay it forward with your heroic life story, and what another woman thought was not possible, will see that it is. You are the living proof.
Educate yourself on the issues that women still face today. Think about what you can do to effect change.
Send a quick thank you note to a woman that you admire.
Pass on the word about Women’s History Month on your social media platforms to raise awareness.
Support women-owned businesses.
Mentor girls and young women. Empower them with your knowledge so that they know that they matter, and they can make a difference in this world.
Let’s show some love for Women’s History Month! Lift each other up and don’t forget to hug yourself and smile. You deserve it!
March is national optimism month. It can be hard at times to be optimistic when life happens. Although, I think those are the times to have an optimistic outlook on things. Just think of the good you will be doing for yourself. In the long run, with a more positive attitude you will have lower stress levels, be more hopeful and have a more upbeat and cheerful feeling about life.
Optimism can be a challenge when the world spends so much time on social media. It is so easy for someone to see something on the internet and compare it to their own lives. We must remember that not everything we see on the web is as it seems. With that, know that we all have our separate paths in life and will not always arrive at certain destinations at the same time. It will take some of us longer to achieve certain things.
During March, we can start to take notice of our ways of looking at situations. If we take stock of how we perceive things we can then learn to change the negative thoughts into positive ones. Learn how to see the best case-scenario rather than the worst. We can team up with someone we trust and hold each other accountable. Help the other person change that negative into a positive.
March 12-18 Sleep Awareness Week
Did you know? Driving while drowsy slows reaction time just the same as driving drunk.
Sleep affects our health in many ways. Being well rested lets us excel mentally and physically. Lack of sleep has less than optimal effects on us. Try these simple things for better sleep; limit alcohol close to bedtime, no screen time before bed or while lying in bed, stop caffeine at least 4 hours before bed, try not to exercise close to the time you are going to sleep. Adequate sleep helps reduce stress, keeps our heart healthy and aids with weight loss. So, don’t forget to get your ZZZs.
March 12
Daylight Saving Time
Spring forward for Daylight Saving Time. It’s the time of year when we set the clocks ahead one hour. This practice allows for more hours of daylight during the warmer months of the year.
Celebrate the patron saint of Ireland today. People pay tribute to Irish history by attending mass and/or having a big meal. You will see a lot of the color Green. This represents the vast green land of Ireland. Although the 4-leaf clover is said to bring good luck, the Shamrock is one of the Irish symbols. Check out the web for some fun Green cocktails. You can make them with or without alcohol. Get the family together to make some recipes to commemorate Irish heritage.
March 20
First Day of Spring
Hello Spring! Milder days ahead. Also, the time of year when trees start to bloom. The pollen count rises also. Get your allergy medicine ready for those who are affected by this. In the Spring we have a lot more time to go for walks before or after work and enjoy some sun and outdoor time.
March 22
Ramadan Begins
Ramadan is a religious Islamic holiday observed by Muslims. From sun-up to sun-down Muslims fast and try to avoid eating, drinking, smoking and any impure behaviors and/or thoughts. Ramadan is when you will see increased prayers, time worshipping at the mosque and reading the Quran. This time of self-reflection helps to clean the soul and show empathy for those less fortunate. Fasting is a way to acknowledge that some people around the world are hungry. Those who practice the Islamic religion can find places of worship in virtually every state in the United States. Even though there are millions of people in the U.S. who are Muslims, the largest Muslim population can be found in Indonesia.
March 22
Día de la Abolición de Esclavitud
Did you know? It was once illegal to own or display the Puerto Rican Flag.
Emancipation Day (Puerto Rico)
March 22, 1873 marks the end of slavery in Puerto Rico. After colonization, disease and mistreatment wiped out most of the native people, this resulted in a major labor shortage. Gold mining was the popular trade at the time, so workers were needed for this reason. After gold mining stopped bringing in profits, sugar cane was the next thing to bring in money for the island. African slaves were used for enrichment of the land on plantations for the production of sugar. The African slave trade in PR lasted over 30 decades. Emancipation Day in Puerto Rico is an important day to celebrate freedom. Bomba and Plena music has strong African roots. Dancing to this music, along with native meals, festivals and parades are some of the ways to celebrate Emancipation Day.
Afro Puerto Rican flag and Resistance Puerto Rican flag
Puerto Rican Flag
Save Your Vision Month
Take the time to give your eyes a little extra TLC. It is better to preserve our eyesight as much as possible, rather than letting it get so bad that it creates things that cannot be reversed. Our eyes are precious. Besides, we only get one set. Try some preventative things like, limiting screen time. When reading make sure the room is well lit. Wear sunglasses to help against UV sun rays. Schedule that much needed eye exam. You know who you are… If you catch yourself squinting or needing to use extra bright light just to read certain things.
Who is your favorite comedian? We have so many performers who have a natural gift to make others laugh. Who do you admire for their talent to lift others up through laughter? It is not an easy thing to stand up in front of a crowd of people, not knowing how your jokes are going to be received.
Acting in movies and performing improv are some forms to the art of comedy. What a talent to bring a smile to others and make people laugh. Who are your favorite comedians?
I can only read so much
Of this BS and such and such
Who in their right mind
This info is so maligned
Where are the hopeful stories
Of animal rescues and watching lories
Of good-will and cheer
Of not crime and fear
Stories about curing cancer
Slashing grocery prices like a lancer
Restoring faith in the system
Less about being a robbery victim
Thieves need to get a job
Stop stealing and being a slob
People work hard for their money
This is not the land of milk and honey
What about affordable housing and gas
Less homelessness, are these things of the past
Where are the stories to make you smile
Laugh inside and not bring up the bile
Bile that makes you want to gag
Reading news about this mixed bag
Report on something better
About successes and the go-getters
Maybe then I can read this thing
See a story that makes me want to sing
And not want to set the pages ablaze
Watching the ashes blow away in a haze
Written in response to Sadje's prompt, what to you see #174
What does it mean to be humble? What do you think of when you hear this word? On Wednesday, February 22 it’s all about being humble. Take this day and ground yourself. Bring it down a notch. Do not brag, boast or exhibit pride. It is a day to come down to earth and come to grips with the fact that you are not perfect. Think of ways to humble yourself.
Remember that we are human and make mistakes. Accept that and embrace it. Even if you do not accept the faults and imperfections of others, do it for yourself. Put your ego aside. For some, this is a hard thing to do. Just practice some humility and you will see and feel the difference.
Being a well-accomplished person is no small feat. Just try to keep it under wraps for the day. It does not mean that you have low self-esteem or are downgrading what you have achieved. Instead, about having that personal knowledge of your achievements and not feeling the need to verbalize them at every turn.
Examples
Listen to others who are speaking, without interrupting. This shows the person that you are truly listening to what they have to say. You are putting them first in that moment and not just concerned with what you have to say.
Pride has no place on Humble Day. Put others first. Doing so opens us up to new experiences. When we get out of our own head, we have room to grow and see things from another perspective.
Be mindful of your actions and words. Being mindful shows that even though you may feel a certain way, keep it to yourself and consider the other person’s feelings. Little things do matter.
For those with children, teach them how to humble themselves. Explain to them why it can change their outlook and make them go deeper to learn some things about themselves.
Instead of seeking out attention, give attention to someone else. See how you feel afterward.
Outcomes
Come to the realization that life is not always about ourselves but about embracing others too. When we celebrate others, it is all a trickle affect and it comes back around.
Know that boasting proves nothing. Keeping it to yourself sometimes can be a good thing. Your accomplishments will be obvious. No need to brag and tell everyone. Your inner light will shine through.
Humbling yourself does not diminish who you are. The practice of being humble gives us the chance to look outside of ourselves and see other things and people. It forces us to see life through a new and different lens.
Bring It Down a Notch
Putting away the selfishness and pride truly does make a difference to all mankind. When we humble ourselves, we are more likely to help others. This practice lends us with more awareness of what is happening around us and in the world. It is a way of enlightenment.
Humble Day is on February 22nd but who says it has to end there. If you have a humbling experience that changed your life, consider sharing. It may inspire others and let them see the light. If you don’t want to share, that’s okay too. Go back to that moment and use that experience as an example to guide your actions on Humble Day.
Body, hair and cleanse is the topic today. Things that we do for ourselves on a regular basis and not think twice about. It just comes naturally. While doing these things sometimes we get bombarded when trying to decide on just the right product for these regular rituals.
Welcome to my first review of products for hair, skin, and body. I have chosen some products that I have tried in the past, as well as some that I currently use. If you have ever considered using some of these products but just wasn’t quite sure, take a look.
BODY LOTION AND CREAM
Keeping the body smooth and moist is very important. It helps to slow wrinkling and keeps the skin looking healthy. Especially, during the colder months moisturizing is a must.
Body Lotion and Cream
Cantu Skin Therapy Shea Butter Nourishing Body Lotion
Pros- Nourishing and truly moisturizes the skin.
Cons- Highly scented. Using this, you do not want to wear any perfume on top of this product.
This lotion does moisturize the skin but is highly scented. It contains shea butter which always does the job. You will feel like you are wearing perfume. If that is the desired result, then this is the product for you. I would caution on using this in the summer, it might attract bugs due to the highly perfumed scent.
Dove Whipped Body Cream Pomegranate/Shea Butter
Pros- Moisturizing. Lightly scented.
Cons- Does not really have the scent of pomegranate, which is why I made the purchase.
This body cream is okay. It is worth trying. Does provide moisture but not very long-lasting. Other scents are available to try. If you are looking for a cream that smells like pomegranate, you might want to skip this one.
Jergens Nourishing Honey Body Lotion
Pros- Great moisturizer for the skin. Best if used during cooler months when skin is extremely dry. It has a light scent to it, not overpowering at all.
Cons- Very thick texture, so avoid using during summer months. It will just sit on top of the skin. Especially, if you perspire a lot.
Great moisturizing lotion. Inexpensive and easy to find at most retailers. Any of the Jergens nourishing lotions work great for maximum moisture protection for your skin.
HAIR PRODUCTS
Either of these two products are used after washing and conditioning the hair. You can apply these and sit under the hooded dryer or use as a detangler for wet hair then blow dry. If you want to wet set for a curly style these are good choices. You can also use them for wrapping the hair.
Hair products
Smooth ‘N Shine Polishing Foaming Wrap Lotion
Pros- Sets the hair. Foams nicely. Helps with detangling wet hair.
Cons- The smell of this product is not pleasant.
Overall, I did not like this product. It does what it should to set the hair. The smell of it and its polishing qualities fell short for me.
Lotta Body Coconut & Shea Oils Texturizing Setting Lotion
Pros- As the title says, lotta body. This product delivers on body and bounce. Easy to find at most stores. This product does not flake. It also works as a detangler. Use while hair is wet and curl or wrap the hair, sit under the dryer and hair will have shine and bounce.
Cons- Formula is very concentrated, do not use too much.
Great product to use for wet setting the hair or wrapping. You can also use as a detangler if you want to simply blow dry your hair, after washing and conditioning. Smells nice too.
SOAP AND BODYWASH
The products below are for those looking for a body cleanser without harsh chemicals. If you have sensitive skin and are looking for something that will not irritate or dry out your skin, these may be a good alternative.
Soap and Bodywash
Basis Sensitive Skin Bar
Pros- Love, love, love this soap! Did I mention that I love this soap? Very gentle to the skin, no harsh chemicals, long lasting bar. Cleanses the skin well.
Cons- A little pricey. Hard to find in most stores. May have to order online.
This soap leaves the skin feeling clean and non-drying. Even though it is pricey, it is worth it. You get what you pay for, and this is worth a try.
Equate Sensitive Skin Body Wash
Pros- Long lasting, a little goes a long way. Cleanses the skin and leaves it feeling moisturized. Can buy it as a single bottle or a double pack. Works as well as Dove for sensitive skin soap but less expensive.
Cons- None
This body wash works well and lasts a long time. You only need a small amount to lather and clean the skin. The price is affordable, especially for a sensitive skin formula. The double pack is more cost effective.
Dove Unscented Sensitive Skin Soap (not pictured)
Pros- Great soap to use for sensitive skin. Leaves skin feeling moisturized and supple.
Cons- Soap easily dissolves. On the pricey side. Can leave skin feeling moist in areas that you do not want moisture.
Dove sensitive skin soap is a good soap for those with sensitive skin. It is also, highly recommended by doctors. Great skin moisturizer. Be careful not to leave this soap sitting in water, it easily dissolves.
Body, Hair and Cleanse
If you currently use any of these and have a similar experience, I would love to hear from you. Also, if you have tried other products that are worth trying, please share your experience. I hope you have enjoyed the reviews and I will be back in the future with more.
Disclaimer: Please note, this is only my opinion, based on my personal experience with these products. I am not receiving any monetary compensation for said opinions.
Both men and women have lost in love at least once. Some are fortunate enough to have found their true love. I say true love because there is a difference in saying you love someone and showing it. Do you think men are more capable of love than women? It depends on who you ask and their experience with love.
In my opinion, I think women are more capable of love. The reason is because women are nurturers and mothers and as such, more accepting. I don’t believe that you can be accepting without love. You have to start with love in order to accept or nurture something or someone.
Don’t get me wrong, men are capable too. I have seen it. It does exist. We must give them credit. I think the thing that holds some men back is feeling less masculine when showing their loving or nurturing side.
Can you answer this? Is a man or woman more capable of love? What do you think?
