Thursday, August 14, 2008

F is 4 Fibromas


I remember my Grandma having small dark brown bumps on her face. I sometimes wondered were they freckles or moles. I never really understood them and assumed most black people just had them.Morgan Freemon is another man I saw with these small dark brown bumps on his face. I graduated from Aesthetics School and they never really touched on black skin. So my questions were never really answered until I researched black skin my self. Our skin is so unique and different from our white counterparts. I decided to specialize in black skin as an esthetician because its an area not touched to often by the aesthetics world.
Well, if you read the title remember it. The dark brown bumps are called small fibromas. That word may sound scary Mamas but the lesions are non-cancerous and normal in black skin. Fibromas are small growths made up of fibrous tissue. They are not to be confused with moles, skin tags, or freckles. Although they can be considered in the same family. Most commonly black skin will produce fibroma. I know for me I had started to get them after having my first baby. I actually like them but some people don't like them on their face. Fibromas can be easily removed if you really feel like they take away from your appearance. I don't think Morgan Freemon would be him without them. I see it has our own special characteristic for our skin. F is for Fibromas. Now if some one asks you " Are those freckles on your face?" You can respond, " No, they are called fibromas." LOL
We learn something new everyday...
-Peace Mamas

The Beauty of Fatherhood


The Olympics is going crazy over Michael Phelps, but I had the real black super swimmer as my dad. It's funny no matter how old you get if you had a good or bad father you remember everything they did. I compare my father to Michael Phelps because my sister and I were on the phone reminiscing on how my dad would take us swimming. Every summer it never failed he would take us to the pool. We couldn't swim but my father could very well. I would watch him swim and think he was a dolphin. When he would swim under water and let us be on his back I thought he was a super hero. I don't think my father knew he had that affect on his daughters. My dad was just being a dad. It was natural to him exposing us to new things that he already knew. He never knew the impact he made on me from just the normal things he did in life. A boy or girl that has a good father will be able to see
way more potential in themselves because they know their from someone great. My dad is great in so many things but it was those moments when he was just being him self that I cherish the most. Teaching me how to ride a bike, helping him plant a garden, taking us to different parks, and much more I have received in my life as a child from my father. The beauty of fatherhood comes from the look on the child's face when he or she receives that love. Along with that look he or she is storing in her memory every moment. I love you Daddy, I see the beauty in your fatherhood.

Jealousy: Makes Black Women Have Green Eyez

I was talking to my friend yesterday about how I
perceived her when I saw her picture. I told her I thought
she was stuck up. I was told many things about her
but none were negative. When I saw how pretty she was
and how others talked about her I made my
judgement. The funny thing is people would judge me
based off appearance and think I was stuck up.
Thinking back to seeing her picture I wanted to really
examine why I thought that of her. When I met her
she was one of the most down to earth women I ever met. She even invited me in her home when I first met her and we were basically strangers to each other. My question to Mamas is what makes you jealous of another sister?

Do you believe that sister looks better? Does that sister dress better than you? One thing my mother always told me is there will always be someone that looks better. Someone may do something better than you, but does that take away from who we are as a person? I had to apologize to my friend because I was wrong for the judgement I gave her in my mind. If you continue to envy others you will never see the beauty you have within your self. Every woman is special in her own way. Not only are black women special but Hispanic women are too. Hispanic women are sisters too. Lets stop hating when a black man marries a Hispanic woman. We have green eyes in many ways towards one another. I admit, I my self have been a green eyed hater. When will it end? First find the beauty within you and all other things will fall into place. If we let jealousy continue only bitterness will begin to show its ugly head. Sorry Qee, I love you. If you did that to a sister apologize and fight to erase the green eyed hater.


-Peace & Love Mamas

Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Soap & Water : "That's all I use"


I had to write this blog Mamas, because I hear so many times people telling me they only use soap & water. At times some people will tell me all I use is water. Do you really think your skin is clean? We didn't just use soap and water back in the day contrary to popular belief. We tend to as a people except the history some one has told us in a text book or taught us. We used many natural products to clean our skin like herbs and olive oil to hydrate our skin. We were not a people that walked around half naked with bones in our noses living in huts. Even as slaves we were creative in creating beauty products. Some of us have gotten lazy and don't want to take the time to truly care for our skin. So some of you maybe wondering what's wrong with soap and water. Water is OK but when it comes to cleaning that's not enough. Do we jump in a steaming shower jump out and say I'm clean? Now I must go to using the soap on the face. Bar soaps are way too harsh on the skin. Soap strips your skin of all it's natural oils and make your skin produce more oil. I have seen many women walk around like Casper the ghost from the fatty acid residue that bar soap leaves. Don't blame your habits on Grandma. Find a home care regimen that is great for your skin type. I give advice on home care regimens. Email me at blessedwitbeauty@yahoo.com and I will be glad to help. I'm not just a talker I put things in action. I want to help and I get on the Mamas who do this because your better than that. We deserve so much more but allow ourselves to have less. Take care of your skin Mamas.
-Peace

Future Artist on The Rise


When I met her I would never guess she could sing. When I found out she could sing I would never guess she could rap. Laneta Downing is an artist on the rise. I compare her to Mary J. Blige but the girl can rap just as well as she can sing. Her voice touches your spirit and a way that I can't explain. You have to hear her perform and then you will understand. I have heard this lady sing Happy Birthday and people cry. Hopefully she will be coming out with another sister soon. I know Laneta will go far and I wish her all the success. Her voice is blessed and she can flow better than many female rap artists. She is humble with her talent and sings about positive and righteous topics. Don't sleep on this sister. Hope to soon be posting her music in the near future. Love you Neta Peta, lol.
Everyone has a beautiful God given talent. Be humble with it.
-Peace Mamas

Natural Make-Up 4 Us

Looking for all natural make-up? Check out b.l.a.c. minerals.
We all should know by now Bare Minerals and other
so called mineral companies don't carry our skin tones. They will tell you "Use warm it will work." Yeah right all women of color are the the shade "warm". Mamas check out this site it's worth a look. The cosmetic line b.l.a.c. minerals was created by Merced Manning a black woman. So help support another sister trying to produce high quality products for all of us. My Hispanic Mamas there are shades for you too. She also has eye shadows, foundation, blush, etc.

The website is :www.blacminerals.com


Hope you will enjoy

-Peace Mamas



Thursday, August 7, 2008

Mama of the Week: Aqueelah Williams


Mama of the Week goes to Aqueelah Williams. I can say so many good things about this woman. She is my beauty partner and crime!!! I always have told her she is a star but doesn't know how great she is to others. We met through a shared beauty mentor that talked about us to each other all the time. When I met her I felt like I already knew Aqueelah. Over the years I have saw many of her talents. One of her talents that I love is that she can makeover an average woman to look like a movie star. Aqueelah's hands are blessed and she has became one of the most talented makeup artists I know. Aqueelah has many other skills like model consulting, managing a magazine and photoshoots, event coordinating, and the list could go on forever. I'm proud of her and I know she will go far. I must not forget this lady is humble but confident.
Check out her website : http://powderroomconsulting.com/
Mamas I'm sure you will love it!

Ancient Beauty Secrets


Hey Mamas, sorry it's been so long. I'm back working now in the field i love. Beauty and skin care have always been a love of mine. Now I get to come back to it after a long wait. I also like to try new things in the beauty industry. I don't know Mamas if you heard about eyebrow threading. It's an ancient beauty secret of the East Indian culture. Most little girls in India learn to do this technique at age 6 or 7. It's apart of their culture and I was told many times they don't teach "other people" this technique of threading the eyebrows. I really wanted to learn and was faced with trying to read a book or watch a video.
I prayed to the Lord for guidance and for him to bless my hands.
Looking on Youtube I found some demonstrations and started to copy them.
After that I sat down and tried to see if I could thread my leg hair off, lol. Mamas it worked!!!! I was so excited and thanked the Lord for opening my eyes that much to get the basic technique down. I'm practicing now but check me out when I'm a professional at eyebrow threading.
I have to go back to this ancient secret of Indian women because I feel a great deal on this topic. I don't understand why some one wont teach other techniques of their culture. In our culture we are known for braiding and cornrowing hair. We are the best at those beauty techniques but many want to learn from us. Black women are willing to show others their "ancient" braiding styles everyday. I refuse to let anyone tell me I cant do something because its of an other's culture. As long as it's not madness and I want to try it I will find a way. Learn something new and try to become perfect at doing it. Nothing is too far to grasp the understanding of learning. The word "can't" shouldn't be in our vocabulary. Letting others block you from trying or learning new things will keep you from growing.
Learn new things...
-Peace Mamas

Wednesday, August 6, 2008

My Star Ruby Mamas

Proverbs 31:10 Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.

We had this verse as our foundation. Never knowing the friendships we would make and the bonds we would share. My sisters in Christ felt also like my blood sisters. We accomplished many things together and overcame differences. I'm writing this blog because I was thinking of you all. If and when you do read this know that you are always my sisters. I have seen you grow from afar and I'm proud. We aspired to do more than just be a sister , a mother, or a member, and I see we have gone far and above within ourselves to reach that goal. I see a light in you that can out shine the world if you let it. I saw that light in you all since the beginning of our union. I have much respect for you all. I miss you Star Ruby! Hope to see you soon. Until then endure to the end.

-Peace My SRP Mamas!!!

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

The New Black Dress: Confidence


Every fashion designer tells you the "Little Black Dress" is the must have in your wardrobe. The black dress is the essential must have for every woman. You may be wondering what is she talking about? Well, I have a little story for you. You know Mama has her stories. The boys, my mother, and I were at Subway. I was waiting in line ordering food when this lady came in with her daughter. I took a quick glimpse at her and saw her face was burned. The lady's face was terribly burned and looked like she had some skin grafting done to make her look normal. I have to be honest, it scared me at first so I acted like I didn't see her face. Funny thing is she walked up right next to me ordering her food as if nothing was wrong with her face. She had a confidence so great you would had thought she was a super model. Her head wasn't hanged down low and she spoke to everyone. She came up to the boys and I laughing and talking to us with her daughter. I looked at her daughter that was very pretty and looked at her and through the destroyed skin I saw her daughters face. She wasn't ashamed of her looks, although I'm sure it took some time to get to that point. I was amazed by this woman. The boys never said or asked anything about her face they just smiled. I feel like the boys never commented on her face because she acted as if nothing was wrong. I have saw and know some beautiful women,but I don't think any of them had confidence like this lady. Confidence is the "New Little Black Dress". Every woman should have it and wear it everyday. Just think if a lady with a burned face can walk around like a super model, you can too. Learn to love the skin your in. I have said this before in another blog. I had a true eye opener yesterday.
Go get the new black dress today!!!
-Peace Mamas

Wednesday, July 9, 2008

Beauty in The Elements


I had to write this blog before I went to bed. It's been very hectic these pass few days. My sister had her baby boy two days ago. Congratulations Greenways to the new life in your family. Today I took a minute to breathe and I thank my niece for bringing up a memory I had almost forgot.

My grandmother to me was very strict but she had a care free side to her. Sometimes when it rained she would let my sisters and I run in the rain. Then she would give us towels to dry off and we would watch T.V. I never felt so free and happy. My niece said today while it was raining that she wanted to go out in the rain. I thought why not, my grandmother let me. Jasiyah, Skye and I went running in the rain. The rain was beating down hard and the boys laughed and jumped in the rain. It took me back to my childhood with my grandmother. A care free moment that would last in my mind forever. Our clothes were soaked and we couldn't see out of our eyes at times. Most times black women run from the rain but today I enjoyed it. India my niece held back from getting wet which surprised me because she suggested going outside. Often we hold back from people, feelings, or wonderful moments because we are scared to find out what will happen. Next time it rains take the umbrella down and walk in the rain. Don't run to the car Mamas. Walk in the rain, now that's a simple tip /trick for the week. The rain is just the right temperature, soothing, and relaxing. If your scared to get your hair wet put a shower cap on, lol. You can find beauty treatments in the elements just stop and enjoy what's already there for you.


-Peace Mamas



Monday, July 7, 2008

Flaws & All : We R Still Beautiful








I recently got these images in a email message my mother sent me. I had mixed feeling about how these famous women look. I do believe that a lot of famous women give off false images of their selves but I still felt like these women weren't ugly. I thought make-up was only to enhance the beautiful features you have and I feel like these women are beautiful. I love to wear make-up but I can go out the house without it on. Some women must have it on every time they go out. Then there are some women that don't wear it at all. I don't judge a woman because she doesn't like make-up but I do. Famous women have to play the part they signed up for and that's to look glamorous and beautiful. I think they should still get the chance to look like an average woman. The average woman of color is beautiful in her own special way. Seeing famous black women looking average shouldn't make you feel better because you should know you are beautiful. There will always be someone that looks better than you, dresses better, has longer hair, and has whiter teeth. Does it really matter? Accept the image you see in the mirror flaws and all. Mamas let's have our own standards of beauty and stop putting down another sister because of our own insecurities within.

-Peace & Love Mamas

Sunday, July 6, 2008

Mama's FAV Product of the Week


Vaseline Intensive Care Cocoa Butter Lotion is the product of the week. I bought this lotion last week and I love it. The smell is nice and the lotion works!!!. It feels nice on the skin and gets rid of those ashy elbows , knees, and ankles. I recommend this product for people looking for hydration without the greasy chicken feel on your skin.
Try it Mamas you will love it. Plus the bottle is pretty.
-Enjoy Mamas

Tip/Trick: Cold Face& Body 4 Hot Dayz


Driving or walking around in the heat may have you wanting to run home to cool air. I have a fun cool down trick for your face and body. Yes, it involves the refrigerator. Put your lotion and moisturizer for your face in the fridge. Take a cool shower and put the lotion on your body and moisturizer on your face. You will feel cool as a cucumber. This trick is good for people without air condition or just trying to conserve energy on the electric bill.
Stay cool!!!
-Peace Mamas

The Beauty of Life

At times we might want the life of someone famous. If we could have glamorous life style and never be bored. Everyday almost seems like the same day just us wearing different clothes, hairstyles, makeup, etc. It reminds me of the clip above "Ground Hog Day" . He keeps repeating the same day over and over again. Do we appreciate that we can wake up every day and live? How do we get out of the repetitive lifestyle and find the beauty within our lives? I cant say there is a simple answer. Today I slowed down my regular routine and watched my children. They were laughing, Prophecy was wearing his bowel as a hat while eating grapes, Jasiyah and Skye were running around, and Pharez was scooting around in his walker smiling. You may think its chaos but I call it life. The beauty in life can be so beautiful that if you go too fast you just might miss it. If you have a routine life its okay just don't let the routine overcome the joy in life. Beauty comes in many forms and ways. My beauty of life is the truth(Christ), family,simple moments, and so much more. I dedicate this blog to Bridgett Wilson, my cousin that died recently. She truly will be missed.

Slow down Mamas...

-Peace

Wednesday, July 2, 2008

Tip/Trick Preserving Lipstick


Quick Tip/ Trick: Try refrigerating your lipsticks. I read lipsticks will last longer if refrigerated.
My sister told me also refrigerating your perfume helps the fragrance to last longer.
Try these tricks and let me know how it works out for you.
-Peace Mamas

Mama's New Artist of the week!!!


Jazmine Sullivan is the new artist of the week. She has been out for 9 years or more. Now she finally is getting a chance to shine. Jazmine's voice is soulful and soothing. I don't know when her album is coming out but keep looking for it. The latest song "Need U Bad" will definitely be a chart topper. I heard her in the car and thought it was Lauryn Hill making a come back,lol. I think many will enjoy her. Check her out!!!

R your Make-up brushes causing u breakouts?



I hope Mamas you have cleaned out your make-up bags. Now is the time to clean your make-up brushes. Cleaning your brushes is a must to prevent breakouts. Germs can be in your brushes that can get into your skin. You might be thinking you have to run out and get some brush cleaner. Stop!!! I have a trick that will have your make-up brushes squeaky clean.

  1. You need a big bowl, warm water, hair shampoo, paper towels, and a towel.
  2. Mix the shampoo and warm water together
  3. Place all your brushes in the water for 5 minutes
  4. Take each brush by the handle and swish around in the water.
  5. Take each brush out one by one and wipe across the paper towel until all makeup residue is out of the brush.
  6. Lay each brush flat on the towel and let air dry for 24hrs
  7. Now you have nice clean brushes for the face.

Never let your brushes dry standing up because water will seep into handle and make it break.

Clean your brushes every month.

Do dry cleaning with brush cleaner in between shampoo cleaning of the brushes.

-Keep it Clean Mamas

Saturday, June 28, 2008

Out with The Old in with The New

Hey, Mamas my sister suggested this topic so how can I say no. Have you been a little nasty ?Yes, I said nasty. Holding on to makeup because you like the container or had it for years. Yes you are nasty Mama and you know it. I my self have been a victim to holding on to old make-up for years. Well ladies its time to clear those make-up bags out. Open up those bags and start tossing out the old!!!

Follow this list and have fun...

  • First make separate piles for each cosmetic:eye shadows, lipsticks. blushes, brushes, etc.
  • Get a trashcan to have near by so you can toss stuff right away.
  • Make a keeper pile
  • If you just bought new make-up place in keeper pile

Here is the rule of thumb for shelf life for cosmetics. After that you should toss the makeup out and buy new makeup.

Lipsticks:5-6months if kept sanitized

Blushes, powder foundations, loose finishing powder: 1 year

Liquid foundations: 4-5 months, keep in cool place, change seasonally to be for sure your keeping up with shelf life. You can also tell if it's extremely old if the oil and water in the product separates.

Eyeshadow:5-6 months because it comes in contact with your eyes

Mascara:3-4 months

Eyeliners & brow liners: 6months or more because you can sharpen them

Keep cosmetics closed and keep in cool dry places.

That's all Mamas.

It's "Beauty Clean Up Week" so keep looking for the clean up blogs.

-Peace Mamas


Wednesday, June 25, 2008

Self Image: Learning to love the MAMA body after the babies


Standing in front of the mirror, I look at the body of a Mama. Yes, that reflection is me. I have days when I like my reflection and times when I hate it. Media shows famous women back in a size 2 after they have had a baby. Some women are rumoured to have tummy tucks right after giving birth. I think about these women and wonder is it worth it. Are we that vain? I liked my body before the babies. I cant entirely say that now, but I'm growing to love my body. I have stretch marks , sagging parts , and I'll keep the rest to my self. I see all these flaws in the mirror but I turn around and look at my sons. Having a baby your body goes through drastic changes to accommodate the life growing inside you. I had to realize some things won't look the same on my body and some parts will. I can try to lose the weight and tone my body , but will I be satisfied? Learn to love the skin your in because its the only one you have for now. I have a husband and sons who think I'm beautiful shouldn't that be the only thing that counts. I say to you Mamas, stop looking in the mirror criticizing your self. Love the beautiful skin your in. Your beautiful Mamas, stretch marks and all.

-Peace Mamas.