Cyber Monday: Shop for a Cause

A few months ago, I had the opportunity to spend time with a few patients from St. Jude Children's Research Hospital at a Target-sponsored event in New York. While I knew that it would be an emotional experience, I was not prepared for just how inspiring it would be.

Being surrounded by such courageous kids was beyond inspiring. Despite their health challenges, they were positive, upbeat, jovial, and displayed an unyielding zeal for life. Ever since that visit, when I feel like complaining or beating myself up over something silly - I think of them. They helped me re-evaulate what's truly important in life and that good health should never be taken for granted.

Actor Hill Harper recently made a trip to St. Jude in Memphis to visit and play a game of Jenga with cancer patients, Luis and Courtney during the hospital's annual Thanks and Giving campaign. 

Every year St. Jude asks America to shop for a cause by purchasing gifts via stjude.com to support the lifesaving treatment for children battling cancer and other deadly diseases. So this CyberMonday, give a gift that will help save a life.

Don't just wait for the holiday season to volunteer and help others - do it year-round.  You'll be touching the lives of someone in need while nourishing your soul.

Do you volunteer or mentor?

What I'm Most Thankful For...

My pride and joy, Ava!

Plus, my loving husband, family and friends. Have a Safe and Happy Thanksgiving!!

What are you the most thankful for this Thanksgiving?

Photos In Case You Missed the American Music Awards

Nicki Minaj

Will.i.Am with Robin Thicke

Jennifer Hudson

Jennifer Lopez at an AMA after-party.

John Legend

L.A Reid at an AMA after-party.

Lionel Richie

Mary J. Blige

Did you watch the awards? If so, who was your favorite performer? Were you shocked by any of the winners?

5 Things to Be Thankful for This Year

I can't believe that Thanksgiving is next week! Where did the year go? While I'm truly thankful for the many blessings that I've received in addition to the most important (health, family, a job, and shelter) this year, I also thought of a light-hearted list of a few things that we BGs should also be thankful for in 2011.

Here's the list in no particular order:

1. Beyonce showing the world that she's pregnant on the MTV Awards. Thanks to the Queen Bee, we didn't have to suffer through all of the endless speculation of "is she" or "isn't she?" But, apparently a some people STILL couldn't believe that the bootylicious star was bearing a child.

2. Reed Between the Lines airing on BET. We all have our favorite girlfriend back on the air! Plus, it's a positive show that shows that we have successful careers, loving spouses and families just like everybody else.

3. Carol's Daughter launch of Chocolat Smoothing System. When it comes to products for us curly, coily, kinky and even chemically-straightened hair, Carol's Daughter reigns supreme. The new Chocolat system effortlessly tames frizzies for when we want to flaunt a sleek style.

4. Queen Latifah's clothing launch. We all know that the actress/singer/rapper is the Queen of all trades, but we're so happy that she's adding fashion to her burgeoning repertoire. From a size 2 to a 24, Latifah's line accommodates women of most sizes.

5. Oprah's Lifeclass. I don't know about you, but I was glued to the tube every night to learn a lesson from the former talk show host. Each of the shows were so enlightening and inspiring that I even watched most of them live (I hardly ever watch shows that aren't DVR'd)! I am counting down the days for its return in the spring.

What in pop culture, beauty or fashion are you thankful for this year? 

Get Glowing Skin with a Neutrogena Microdermabrasion System Giveaway

If you're looking for a microdermabrasion system that will leave your skin smooth and radiant without breaking the bank, Neutrogena has the product for you. Their microbrasion system is comparable to the pricier ones by Clarisonic and Olay, but is considerably more affordable.

I know you're thinking, but does it work as well as some of the others on the market? Yes, the kit comes with a one-month supply of easy-to-apply cleansing puffs that sloughs away, dead skin cells leaving behind a rejuvenated surface. After using it for a week, I saw immediate results.

Since I'm a huge fan of the Clarisonic brand too, the only downside of the Neutrogena one is that it's battery-operated unlike the Clarisonic that comes with a charger. Other than that, I find it to be a great buy especially for the price!

Available at www.drugstore.com for $19.99

Have you tried the Neutrogena Microbrasion System? If not, you can win one simply by leaving a comment. A winner will be randomly selected and announced later this week. 


What's your fall skincare regimen?

Hot Hosiery for Fall

Ever since I was a little girl, I've had an adoration for tights. See, how I'm so excited in the picture below? It's all due to the fire-engine red leg-wear I'm rocking.

Me with my big sister, Tia, circa 1983.

For as long as I can remember, I've anxiously anticipated cool weather so that I could slip my gams into my favorite form of hosiery. From patterns to bold prints, it's no secret that tights can instantly add oomph and personality to any leg-baring ensemble. Plus, they'll keep you warm while making you appear polished and pulled-together.

I haven't met a pair of tights that I didn't like. On second thought, I have, but those are few and far between!

Check out these stylish offerings:

Agree to Filagree Tights available at www.modcloth.com for $27.99

Anthropologie Fishbone Tights available at www.anthropologie.com for $38

Cole Haan Argyle Tights available at www.zappos.com for $25

Free People Pin Stripe Tights available at www.freepeople.com for $28

Oroblu Col Monika Tights available at www.nordstrom.com for $31

Pretty Polly 'Sparkly' Tights available at www.nordstrom.com for $25

Tsumori Chisato Stripe Tights available at www.forwardforward.com for $149 (yes, that's really $150!! I'd never pay that much for tights, but they are nice to look at from afar!)

Are you a fan of patterned tights?

BGG Chats with Kimora Lee Simmons

Ever since she hopped on the seen as Mrs. Russell Simmons back in the late 1990s, Kimora Lee has become a mainstay in urban pop culture. From turning the fashion brand, Baby Phat, into an empire to her outrageous antics on her reality show, Life in the Fab Lane, Ms. Fabulosity has no plans of slowing down.

I recently spoke with the fashion mogul about life after Baby Phat, being a mom of three, and more. Check out the interview here.

Are you a "Fabulosity" fan? 

Coming to a TV Near You

Have you heard about the latest TV ventures from uber-comedy producer Keenan Ivory Wayans and mega star Queen Latifah?

Well, get ready to set your DVR's as the hit 90's sketch comedy In Living Color will be making a comeback to FOX. Revamped with a brand new cast and new musical talent, FOX is hoping to revive its original hit series with two 30 minute specials to see if viewers will respond favorably. With edgy segments such as the hilarious "Men on Film" with David Alan Grier and Damon Wayans, In Living Color may very well fill the void where Mad TV ended.

Also, former talk show host Queen Latifah is returning back to daytime TV a new talk show slated for the Fall 2013 season. Latifah will be teaming up with Will and Jada, who will serve as executive producers. While the Queen appeared on her eponymous talk show that lasted two seasons, perhaps creating a dream team with the Smiths will give her the boost she needs to compete with the current talk-show divas.

Do you think either of these shows will survive today's fickle TV market?


posted by: Khadijah C.

Beauty Bits

I know Sephora makes many of us BGs feel like a kid in a candy store, that's why you can't miss out on their Friends & Family online discount that ends on November, 2nd. Happy Shopping!

In other beauty news, Nicki Minaj, with her colorful getups and outrageous costumes is taking her penchant for eye-catching flair to nail polishes. The avant-garde rapper, who also happens to be the most sought-after Halloween costume this year, is teaming up with the super nail polish giant OPI for a limited edition 6 polish shade line launching at the top of the new year.

The names of her exclusive polishes are named after her hit songs, "Super Bass," "4 Life," "Did It on 'Em," "Fly," and "Save Me."

Since Nicki Minaj is fearless when it comes to both fashion and beauty, I'm sure it won't be long before she launches her own line of beauty products. Will you be buying?


submitted by: Khadijah C.

Ross' Return to TV

Now that our favorite "girlfriend," Tracee Ellis Ross, is back on the air, we can continue to admire her coveted curly locks on BET's new show, Reed Between the Lines. While I haven't actually seen an episode of the show just yet (blame Oprah, because the hour that I spend on TV this season has been devoted to her Life Class), I do plan on catching up on past ones via DVR soon.

I'm just excited that the executives at BET are finally broadening their horizons and abandoning all of those mindless video shows for original programming that feature fictional professional BGs and guys who reflect a positive image of us. While the premise seems strikingly similar to The Cosby Show, it will be refreshing to have the option of tuning into to a show that doesn't depict us in a demeaning light. Seriously, how long can we keep watching reality shows filled with us BGs at each other's throats?

So my question is, have you guys tuned in to Reed Between the Lines? If so, what are your thoughts?

Carol's Daughter Launches New Smoothing Collection

Just when you thought Carol's Daughter couldn't possibly get any better, founder Lisa Price, proves that there's no plateauing in sight. Her latest concoction, Chocolat Smoothing Collection, claims to keep strands soft and smooth without altering one's natural curl pattern.

For example, since I have non-chemically treated hair, but use a flat iron to periodically straighten, this product would be ideal. It's supposed to keep the dreaded "poof" and frizzies at bay even in high humidity.

Since I just received the samples at the launch last night, I have yet to try the 3-step system (shampoo, blow dry cream, and conditioner), I plan to try it soon so please stay tuned for my review.

Oh, in case you're wondering if the products smell like chocolate, they don't - thank goodness. The name actually comes from a blend of cacao extracts.

Available at www.carolsdaughter.com for $54 (a $60 value)

Would you try this new smoothing system? What products do you use to keep your hair frizz-free?

Beauty News: Paula Patton Joins Covergirl

Actress Paula Patton is the newest BG to team up with Covergirl. The new mom, and wife of blue-eyed crooner, Robin Thicke, is set to be the new Celebrity Brand Ambassador of a couple of cool new products under the Queen Collection.

In celebration of the new partnership, the brown-skinned beauty will be on-hand to chat live on Facebook this Saturday, October 22nd. You guys will be able to talk with her about her beauty and skincare regime. Plus, you'll hear about a contest that's launching on Halloween where you can win a chance to meet her and one of her favorite makeup artists for a Queen Collection Makeover.

Click here for details.

The new Queen Collection will include, Vivid Impact Eyeliner, Natural Hue Matte Pressed Powder and LashFanatic Mascara and will be available in stores January 2012.

Here's a sneak peek:

Update Your Fall Style on a Budget

Now that the fall weather has finally arrived, there’s no need to splurge on an entire new wardrobe to get this year’s latest looks. Here are a few simple ways to spruce up your style without breaking the bank:

Add a Leather Jacket

Layering a leather jacket over your tees, blouses or dresses screams edgy girl chic --instantly creating a more vamped up look.

Black Rivet Washed Lamb Scuba Jacket available at www.wilsons.com for $179.99

Elle Faux Leather Crop Jacket available at www.kohls.com for $58.50

Michael Kors Black Knit Collar Bomber Jacket available at www.bluefly.com for $268.20

Statement Shoes

Whether you choose to go with the trend of “over-the-knee-boots” or a bold colored bootie, both will take a plain outfit from drab to fab.

Take a look at Amber Rose in these tan suede boots and Angela Simmons in her brightly colored blue-suede shoes:

Well-Tailored Blazer
Like a leather jacket, a blazer is a timeless piece that will never go out of style. Whether it’s vintage, classic or modern, a blazer can be used to add a funky flair to your style.

Check out Solange in her canary yellow blazer:

Instead of a basic black blazer, you may want to consider adding a pop of color to make your outfit stand out. If you want a similar look, check out this nutmeg blazer from Topshop:

Nutmeg Boyfriend Blazer available at www.topshop.com for $130

What are some of the ways you're updating your fall looks?



Submitted by: Khadijah Cole

Pretty in Pink

Did you know that according to government statistics, 1 in 6 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point during their lifetime? While the numbers are startling, all hope is not lost. We can help reduce our risk by seeking screening early. Early detection is by far one of the most effective ways to fight the disease.

I've lost two aunts to the disease and feel as though they might be here today if they had caught it early enough.

Don't waste another day, do a self-exam, get a mammogram and take a friend!

Take a look at some of these products that donate a portion of their proceeds to helping find a cure for breast cancer.

Avon Pink Kisses Umbrella available at www.avon.com for $10

Lip, eye, and cheek palette available at www.sephora.com for $15 (a $55 value)

Hunter Boots available at www.nordstrom.com for $125.

KitchenAid Cook for a Cure Set available at www.macys.com from $159-$399.

Have you ever had a mammogram? Do you perform self-exams?

BGG Chats with Sherri Shepherd

From chatting up the hottest celebrities on The View, to hosting The Newlywed Game, to being a mother and wife, Sherri Shepherd proves that it is possible to have it all.

The Emmy-award winning newlywed, 44,  shares how she successfully wears many hats while maintaining the most important aspect of her life - family. The comedian/actress spoke with me about how she balances it all, along with her latest "powerful" venture, being a spokeswoman for Oral-B's power toothbrush, and more.

On her wedding that aired on the Style Network
"We had a great time planning it. It was so perfect and beautiful. There was very little drama. I don't think I would've changed a thing about my wedding. If anything, the only thing that I was probably a Bridezilla about was our bridal party dance. Everybody was complaining, being silly and saying, "I don't know why we're doing this." I was like look, "This is the only thing that I want. I'm not making you get a weave in your hair or wear uncomfortable shoes, but you will get this dance if it's the last thing we do because it is going to go viral and it will be perfect! Elisabeth Hasselbeck, get your butt over here and start moving Niecy Nash you are not on Dancing With the Stars - get it together. It worked out - they came together for me."

Her Windy City roots
"I'm from the south side. It (her wedding) was so special because all of my family is from Chicago. The problem with getting married in Chicago was that you had family members saying, 'Uh cuz, I didn't get my invitation cuz,' and I'd be like, 'It's because I didn't send you an invitation cuz,' but other than that I love being in Chicago."


On how she thinks she and her husband, Sal, would fare on The Newlywed Game

"My mother-in-law would probably stop talking to me. And I'd probably be so embarrassed. My husband has no filter so he would to tell you the How, When and the Why of our intimate life. So you would probably never see us on that game!"

On the importance of oral hygiene

"I'm so excited that I'm partnering with Oral-B because I hope to inspire people to take control of their oral health. I don't think a lot people realize that if you don't have your oral health and smile and if your teeth are not together that it affects so many aspects of your life: relationships, self-esteem, and just your ovreall health. Your mouth is the gateway to everything, that's why I'm trying to inpsire every one to jump on the power toothbrush train. I just started using my Oral-B power toothbrush and I thought I was good before, but when I turned this thing on, I almost got blown out of the bathroom with the power of this toothbrush! It's so much easier than using a manual toothbrush. I don't ever want to go back to using a manual one. My dentist also saw that the difference when I was using my power toothbrush."

On balancing being a daytime talk-show host, actress, comedian, wife, and mom

"First of all I have to pray in the morning. One of my prayers is: Lord I give you everything my career, my child, my dreams, my aspirations...Give me back what you want me to have. Show me what I'm supposed to do. What always comes back to me is my #1 priority when I was single - my son, Jeffrey (6-years-old). That was it. So if it was anything that took me away from my child, that dictated whether I'd say no or yes. That's why you don't see me at a lot of the red carpet events wearing the latest little dresses, or at the clubs or at the parties dropping it like it's hot because I have a son. That's why you don't see me doing the "paso doble" on Dancing With the Stars because I have a son and I didn't have anyone to help me with him. So I had to say no to a lot of things. So as soon as I leave The View I head over to host The Newlywed Game, but as soon as I'm done with that I'm Skypeing with Jeffrey. I'm running home, reading a book and tucking him in at night."


Her all-time favorite guest on The View
"We've had so many, but I'd have to say hands-down President Barack Obama. Literally who has the opportunity to sit one person away from the President of the United States? There's never been a person that had my skin-color EVER leading the free world so to be able to sit there and look at President Barack Obama and then think back to my son and know that my son could do anything that he really truly wants to do because of this man right here - it was just such an honor. I'll never forget that moment." 


Are you a Sherri Shepherd fan? Do you use a manual or electric toothbrush?