Do you have the needed essentials for those busy days? Check your bag and throw out anything old, only carry what you need on the go. Refresh any of your products with new ones.
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Tag: women
Unglue and Unsew
The article today, titled The Unveiling of You. No More Thread, No More Glue is strictly for women who are frustrated in the dating game. They are looking to make a romantic connection but are feeling left out. The ones who feel like they should receive all the attention. The women who feel that they are attractive but are being passed over for simple, plain looking women who do not measure up, in their opinion. Let me explain.
If you are trying to make a meaningful connection, one of the things to do is to distinguish yourself from everyone else. Enhancements we add to our overall look can determine whether we blend in or stand out in the crowd. Wondering why men pass right by you? It might be because you look exactly the same as every other woman in the room. Present yourself in a way that is different from the others.
Try surveying the room and see if you are looking at the same image as yourself, do you wonder why? Everyone in the room is wearing the same style weave or wig, layers and layers of makeup, long false eyelashes, extra-long fingernails and 5 inches of “baby hair” or edges and plumped-up lips. Before anyone gets upset; there is nothing wrong with wearing wigs/weave/hair extensions.
Unglue and unsew and see what you discover. Just try it. You might just love who that person is underneath the false eyelashes, weave, extra-long fingernails, layers of makeup and exaggerated plumped lips. Do you even recognize her anymore. Don’t get me wrong, there is no crime in looking good and feeling good about yourself. All I am saying is when is it too much. Do you spend a small fortune on all the enhancements to still be lonely.
Frustrated and Pretty
Women who refer to themselves as “pretty” are pretty frustrated. Again, I am only addressing the ones who are in the dating game. Despite the things they do, the pretty women feel like the simple, basic looking women are the ones receiving the attention. Possible reasons below may reveal the barrier to meeting that special someone. Think about the things below:
Frame of Mind
Do you have the attitude that you are better than everyone else in the room? If you are attending an event and turn your nose up at everyone else, because you think you are the best looking one there…. Guess again. No one is discounting the fact that you may be attractive, but an attitude like that makes you appear ugly to others. Remember, every person has something unique to offer. Just because you are attractive, does not mean that every man will automatically approach you. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
Posture
Are you approachable? Are your face and lips twisted? Do you have your arms folded? Is your back turned? Do you look friendly and smiling? Are you slouching? Body language is an important cue that we sometimes miss and do not think about. If you look like you do not want to be bothered and have a mean look on your face, who will step to you? Think about it for a second. If men are passing you by and going over to other women, take a moment and check your body language and posture.
Set Yourself Apart
Unglue and unsew, remove the false eyelashes and wear your nails short to medium length. Do away with the long edges/baby hair and use lip wear that does not contain plumping ingredients. Why blend in with the same look as everyone else? Do something different so that you do not look like everyone in the place. You would be surprised at how much money and time you can save from paying for that expensive weave and sitting in the salon for hours on end. There are so many styles you can do with your natural hair, no matter how short or long it is. You might even like your natural hair much better.
Worldly
Are you materialistic? Do you don designer apparel from head to toe? The purse cost $800, shoes $250, outfit $400. If you present as someone who is donned in all designer apparel, men may shy away from you. The reason is that they see their pockets getting empty already. Before they speak a word, they know they are going to be broke. You may not be materialistic, but strangers do not know this. The man may see this and think that you are going to drain his money. The saying, ‘not to judge a book by its cover’ comes to mind. Although it is not fair, it happens all the time.
New Things
Give someone other than your usual type a chance. If the type you normally go for approaches you, so be it. Carry on a conversation it doesn’t hurt. Alternatively, try giving the men you normally do not go for a chance. Don’t shoot them down before they can finish the first sentence. You might be surprised at how much you have in common with him and what a deep connection the two of you share together.
Outlook
Try an experiment for two weeks or a month. Unsew and unglue. Reveal the person underneath all the extra stuff. See if any of these changes make a difference in how you feel and/or improve your chances of making that special connection that you are seeking. The simple, plain looking women are looking for that special connection the same as you. Do not be mad at their approach. Find what works best for you.
Full disclosure: I can speak to this because I was guilty of some of these things in the past. I have either experienced these first-hand or have observed these behaviors. And before anyone jumps to conclusions, there is nothing wrong with wigs/weave. I too have wigs and have had my hair braided with added hair. No judgement. The information contained here is to illustrate a point.
Love yourself and all that you are. If you don’t who else will? 
Thank you for reading! 
The Six Triple Eight- A True Inspiration
Happy New Year! 2025 is here and I am grateful to see another year! I hope that this year brings everyone what they need. Whether it be love in your life, understanding, a roof over your head, financial blessings, mended relationships with family, friends, or loved ones Wishing this in abundance for you all.
The Six Triple Eight is a movie, inspired by true events. It pays homage to the black women who showed great strength, grace, beauty, humility and resilience. For those who are familiar with the story, what did you take away from it? A must see for those who have not seen it.
Much respect to the people who were there and served in the Six Triple Eight. Thank you to the producers, actors and everyone involved for telling the story.
Menopause; a conversation not just for women but couples too. Would you agree that discussion about this kind of life change is important? Menopause is a natural part of life for women. While it is helpful to talk about amongst each other; men need to be included too. They may not understand it but should be in the know about their other half. Open dialogue may bring some couples together.
Thank you for stopping by! As always, stay well and be blessed 
Image by Steward Masweneng from Pixabay
Thank you for stopping by to read and watch. Stay well and be blessed.
What it Really Means to Be a Boss
What does it mean to be a boss? Excellent! Outstanding! People have their own interpretation of the word. Some people take it to the extreme. Being a boss does not mean that you must be bossy. I know this is confusing. How can you be a boss and not be bossy?
Easy. Being a boss means that you have a level of control and stability. You have control over your circumstances and things that you do in life. You have stability in areas of your life that are important to you. What being a boss does not mean is bossing people around. Be the adjective of a boss and not the verb.
I am speaking to women on this subject. I think the colloquial term of being a boss, has gone too far. People are taking this out of context, and it is starting to have adverse effects. When you take your Boss self and start to do ugly things to people with your words and actions, do not be confused when people steer away from you.
You do not have to be bossy to let people know that you are in control. You do not have to be bossy to prove a point that you got this! That you are your own person. The boss in you will manifest itself. Others notice this and may or may not acknowledge it.
What a boss does
- Loves herself
- Says no without guilt
- Is financially stable
- Calls the shots
- Has courage to ask for help
What a boss is not and/or does not do
- Judgmental
- Treat others badly
- Talk down to people
- Arrogant
- Boastful
You can still be a boss, while simultaneously being a mother, wife, and sister. Please remember that you can still be outstanding and excellent without the negative undertones. Do not forget that you can still show your feminine side and call the shots. Stand your ground and be classy about it.
However, it can get lonely when you become too ambitious. A few people may fall out of your life while you are busy being a boss. Check in on people that you might not have seen or spoken to in a while. Remember that everyone needs someone.
What do you say it really means to be a boss?
Women who advocate for equity, diversity and inclusion. That is what Women’s History Month is about in 2024. Women are still having the same centuries old fight. It doesn’t make sense for it to be this way in such progressive times. But are we really living in progressive times?
“You cannot take your freedoms for granted. Just like generations who have come before you, you have to do your part to preserve and protect those freedoms.”
Michelle Obama
Let’s celebrate the women who are and have made a positive impact in the communities. Both local and afar. It takes courage and determination to answer the call to action. Forming comities, rallying together and just speaking on injustices is a great start.
March 8 is International Women’s Day. The theme this year is Inspire Inclusion.
We have women out there who have paved the way for advances we, as a country enjoy. Science, civil rights, film/theater, politics, sports, education, the arts and a plethora of disciplines is where women from all walks of life, have made their mark. Let us celebrate Ava DuVernay, Sally Ride, Serena Williams, Michelle Obama, Susan B. Anthony and a host of others.
Without their activism, and strength to pave the way, we may not have been able to accomplish some of the things we have today. Staying the course and speaking out against inequities against women must continue. We deserve to be included and treated fairly, so let’s not forget the work of those before us and the women who walk with us today on this journey.
“There will be resistance to your ambition, there will be people who say to you, ‘You are out of your lane.’ They are burdened by only having the capacity to see what has always been instead of what can be. “
Kamala Harris
Categories
Things You Never Say to a Woman
Image by Mohamed Hassan from Pixabay
Things You Never Say to a Woman
It can be hard to know what things are okay and not okay to say to a woman. If there is any doubt about it, just keep it to yourself. I urge you not to do it! Some of these things may result in you getting a slap across the face or cursed out. The most important thing to remember is not to intentionally hurt someone’s feelings. Just think about how you would feel if someone did or said these things to you? I’m giving these examples in humor but make no mistake, tread lightly.
When is your baby due? This is a major no-no. Only ask this question when you have heard it directly from the expectant mother. If you do not have first-hand knowledge of the fact that a woman is pregnant; keep your mouth shut! No one says anything about your beer belly. What about that?
Is that your real hair? What! Of course, it’s my real hair. Either I grew this organically or I bought it. Therefore, it makes it mine and real. If there is any question in your mind about it don’t let your curiosity get the best of you. As long as it looks good, it doesn’t matter if it was bought or grown.
Is that what you are wearing? First, be happy that we are gracing you with our company. Do not question our choice in outfit. It sets a bad tone for the rest of the evening. Second, let’s not mention, the times you have made some questionable choices in outfits. Just saying!
Any statement that starts with, “for a woman…”. Oh no, this is bad. You never want to preface anything with, “for a woman…”. What do you mean?!?! Example: for a woman, you are a good driver. Psst, there is this rumor going around that women are bad drivers. Can you believe that?!
This is a never do. Never touch a woman’s hair without permission. If you want to draw back a nub or two, just try it! We do not want you pawing through our hair, unless we invite you. A time commitment is involved to get our hair manageable and to our liking. Don’t think it’s open season to come over and start messing with it. Remember this.
Closing Thought
Lastly, I would also like to let women know that you never ask a question that you do not want the real answer to. You know the one that is often asked. “Does this dress make me look fat?” Don’t do it to yourself.
Hope you all got a laugh or two. Even though some of these things are funny, just stop and think before saying a word.
What’s on the exterior is not a reflection of the whole person. This message is to young girls and anyone who feels like they do not measure up. Society has women in this cookie-cutter image. Just know that we are versatile. Inner beauty, self-love and confidence is what we are made of. Do not let other people define who you are.
The world we live in today is very shallow and based on outer looks. People sometimes only look at the exterior with no further thought about the entire person. There is nothing wrong with being beautiful. After you get past the beauty what is inside? Do you want to be judged only by how you look? In some industries, beauty is paramount in your success in that particular field. But make sure you are being true to yourself.
Self-love is very important. If people gravitate to you because you look a certain way, but you feel like you are less than. Ask yourself, “what is wrong with this picture?”. Just remember that no one is perfect. At the end of the day, we are all human. Don’t beat yourself up if you feel like you do not “fit the mold” of what society says you should look like. Love the skin you are in.
If you have big thighs, so what. Embrace it and make it your strength. If your lips are fuller than the masses. Guess what; God made you that way for a reason. Love those lips, they are uniquely yours. It does not matter what your nose looks like or your feet. Have compassion and love for yourself. Accept yourself how you are. If anyone does not recognize the beauty you are inside, love yourself anyway!
“You can‘t rely on how you look to sustain you, what sustains us, what is fundamentally beautiful is compassion; for yourself and for those around you.”
Lupita Nyong’o
Women’s History Month in Music
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.
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.
Honoring Women Making History in March
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!
Image credit: by Maja Cvetojević from Pixabay
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.
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.
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.
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.
Illustration credit: Image by Mohamed Hassan from Pixabay
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.
Is a Man or Woman More Capable of Love?
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?
Most of the time, activities are more fun when we do them with someone else. It can take an outing from a 4-5 experience up to a 7-8 on the scale of enjoyable. On the other hand, there are some things better left to be done alone. Like getting a haircut, an interview or going to the dentist. Let’s look at what activities you like to do alone.
Shopping
Shopping, for example, is something that we like to do. When I say we, I mean women. We like to have someone with us to give their honest opinion on how an outfit looks, or someone to help us pick something out for that special occasion. Shopping can be an all day excursion. When it’s time for a break, stop for lunch and then continue.
For those who take a more practical or organized approach to shopping, they want to be alone. They know what stores they are going to and what they need. It makes for an easy in and out shopping experience. People who do this are not interested in browsing the store or lollygagging. Plus, they don’t want to waste time going store to store spending more money.
Church or religious services
Some people make this a family affair. Which means that everyone in the house is going. Whether you want to go or not doesn’t matter, so don’t make a fuss. This can also be seen as a solo outing to go to your house of worship, to receive your blessings and to be a blessing to others. You may be going to ask for forgiveness for something personal and would like to be there alone with your thoughts. Also, some prefer to pray by themselves and enjoy the service in solitude.
Movies
For those people who still have theaters open, movies usually are a group or couple outing. You can laugh out loud or whisper to your friends or date about the movie. Afterwards, you can have a discussion about how you liked the film. Some people may not want to be talked to while the movie is playing. They zone out and want to focus on what the movie is about. They only want to enjoy their snack and take in the cinematic experience. Plus, you know those who can’t stop talking throughout and you miss key points of the movie.
Bar/Clubbing
Going to get a drink or two is fun when you go with someone. Also, this is when a designated driver is needed. For those who like to enjoy spirits, beer, wine it’s nice to have a friend or significant other with you to talk and laugh with. Also, to watch your back if you have one too many. You know who you are 
Share stories, people watch, drink, dance and listen to music at the club. Whatever you do while at the bar or club. When you want to get on the dance floor it takes the edge off to dance with your friends and not alone.
We do have those who go clubbing or to a bar to meet people. In this case, I would say they don’t want any extra weight hanging around. They would prefer to go alone and do what they do.
Eating Out
Going out to eat at a restaurant is usually spent together with someone. The next time you go to a restaurant look around. You will notice that most tables have at least two or more people per table. Singles also go out to eat but you don’t see this as often as groups. It can feel awkward or lonely when you are at a restaurant full of people, and you are there solo. To each their own.
Exercise
Exercising can be either a group or solo activity. Some people prefer to buddy up with someone else to help keep them accountable. It also makes keeping in shape more fun when there is someone else to do the work with you. Other people prefer to work-out alone. They have no problem keeping up with their physical activity. What is your exercise style?
What activities do you like to do alone?
Tell us about the activities you prefer to do alone. There is nothing wrong with going solo and just doing your thing, alone. Sometimes we do our best work while being alone.
New Year’s Day
January 1
January O Enero, New Beginning. Happy New Year! It’s 2023 and time for a new beginning. What do you resolve for the new year? This is the chance for new goals, new wishes and a time to reflect. Reflect on the year gone by and how you want to spend this next year. Pledge to yourself to add a new skill and/or hobby, pledge to make your health a priority. Pledge to be a little nicer to others as you are to yourself. Think about what you can change to make this year better than the last.
Women Rock! Day
January 3
Women Rock! Day brings to mind, Tina Turner, Pat Benatar, and Aretha Franklin. Women have blazed a trail into the male dominated industry of Rock N’ Roll. Aretha set the stage for being the first woman to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Other women to join the ranks of the Queen of Soul, Aretha, include Stevie Nicks, Janis Joplin, Tina Turner, Gladys Knight, Etta James, Debbie Harry, Madonna and a host of others. A notable performer is Pat Benatar who came on the scene in the late 70s with her debut album, “In the Heat of the Night”. Tina Turner, Queen of Rock N’ Roll, has been in the music industry for about 40-50 years. These women, among others came in and made their stamp on music for women performers today.
Braille is a form of writing for the visually impaired or blind. This was created by Louis Braille who himself became blind, at 10 years of age, due to a self-inflicted accident. The Braille system uses touch and a six-dot formation. The creation of braille is invaluable to those who cannot see. It has allowed the visually impaired the ability to communicate and read like those who still have sight. Since 2018 the United Nations General Assembly declared this a national holiday. On World Braille Day help raise awareness. Learn Braille so that you can help people who may not know how to read it. Braille helps to make people who have lost their sight feel inclusive. Even though individuals may not be able to see, they have other senses to use in order to go about their daily lives. January is also Braille Literacy Month.
Did you know? You can buy toys in Braille. Also, Math and Science has a form of Braille called the Nemeth Code.
Three Kings Day
January 6
Epiphany, Three Kings Day, Día de Los Reyes is January 6th. It marks the last day of the extended Christmas holiday in many Latin American countries. On this day, it is said that the 3 wise men gave gifts to Baby Jesus. Of course, good food is involved for this occasion. Some families enjoy a meal outdoors. More like a feast which includes dishes of beans with rice, slow roasted meat, plantains, soups and other traditional Latin cuisine. Also, king cake is a part of this celebration. This is a ring-shaped cake with a hidden doll baked inside. The doll symbolizes Baby Jesus. Should you be the one to get the doll inside it means that you have to bring the next king cake. Also, it signifies that you will have prosperity and luck.
Today we observe the birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr who was born on January 15, 1929. He was a non-violent, civil rights leader.
Why is he celebrated?
- He had a hand in desegregation. Gone are the days of separate water fountains, bathrooms and seating on public transportation among Black and White people.
- Dr. King fought to eradicate racism. He fought for civil and economic rights of people.
- MLK was the youngest person to receive the Nobel Peace Prize.
- The voting rights act of 1965 is to his credit. Had he not persisted and held the Southern Christian Leadership Conference in Selma, Alabama, this law might not have been passed.
As you can see, he is responsible for bringing people together and effecting change for the better. And not just Black people, but all people.
Did you know?
Samuel L. Gravely (1922-2004) was the first African American to command a United States Navy Warship. He also joined the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity., the first fraternity for African Americans. He accomplished a lot of first achievements in the military for African Americans.
National Puzzle Day
January 29
National Puzzle Day is a way to exercise your brain. Whether you like Jigsaw puzzles, crosswords or Jenga it does not matter, they all provide benefits for the brain. Doing puzzles are stress relievers and fun. You can do a jigsaw puzzle by yourself or with friends and family. You can start off with a small jigsaw and work your way up to 500-1000 pieces. Enjoy yourself, these are not just for kids but there are plenty of adult puzzles out there.
National Stalking Awareness Month
Stalking– the act or crime of willfully and repeatedly following or harassing another person in circumstances that would cause a reasonable person to fear injury or death especially because of express or implied threats.
In January we bring attention to this important topic. Stalking is a crime in all 50 states and Washington D.C. This is not limited to physical stalking but cyberstalking as well. Women are stalked almost 3 times more than men. In 2011, former President Barack Obama made the first proclamation for stalking awareness. If you feel that you are being stalked and are in immediate danger, call 911. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your gut. Let your family/friends know if you feel like you are being followed, receiving threats, getting unwanted attention. Do not engage with a stalker. If you can, gather evidence. We all have the right to feel safe at work, home or anywhere we go. Spread awareness and be safe.