3 Women Authors You Absolutely Should Know!

It's officially that time of year where we find that we have a little time to rest, shop and do a whole bunch of other tasks all in the name of love, nostalgia, self-care and the like. The holiday season on one hand is often one associated with family, friends, food, reflection and overzealous spending. On the the other hand, some of us could care less about the the commercialism of the holiday season and want nothing more than to get it over with. Despite the feelings associated with the season most of us begin to look to and plan for the future. 

Goal setting, trips and books are just some of the not so guilty pleasures that we indulge in as we navigate into a new year. The new year is a time to recalibrate the plan to become our best selves. We make a concerted effort to continue on the path of healing generational trauma while developing and reworking sound financial goals. Some of us even go off on the deep end and take personal risks by creating something that comes from the deepest, darkest part of ourselves to share with the world. If you are one of those people, then there three authors that you should know! So before you peruse your favorite bookstore or online retailers for your next book, take a moment get to know these ladies and they will certainly help you navigate the paths that you have chosen or perhaps that have chosen you. 

Lilith Shakti
With over 15 years of studying Holistic Wellness, Lilith Shakti is a Holistic Therapist who takes an alchemist approach to live. As a holistically therapeutic authoress, she writes with the intent of empowering readers to heal and move forward in the endergy of self love. 


Highly regarded for offering betterment workshops, conferences, and retreats, potential readers are encouraged to take the time to purchase her workbook, Yoni Love or Lyrical Showers.  

Yoni Love  is a workbook written as a guide to offer assistance in creating a safe space to nurture self love by focusing on healing. 


Lyrical Showers is a culmination of sacred words that will allow the reader the ability to be simply lost in words. 
















Melissa Monek is a native of Miami, Florida is an artist, writer, poet, and educator. As she continues her journey from her first published book, M.O.T.H(Matters of the Heart), she begins to depict an insight of her life through poetry. In this unique way, Melissa decided to put a twist on speaking her voice, using this platform to hopefully reach and inspire those who haven't yet found the courage to tell their story. She know how it feels to be in dark places with no one to turn to, to wear scars that no one can see, and to bear the pain of life with her head held high and a smile on her face. She is truly a testimony of her many tests. A conqueror, a fighter, a survivor are all the titles that Melissa wear as she continues to press forward on her own self healing journey. Everyday isn't a bad day but when they are, she holds on to God's unchanging hand and weather the storm. She defines herself as a Beautiful Disaster, a Diamond in the rough that will shine so brightly with everyone she meets. She is the author of Pieces of Me.

Pieces of Me Imagine falling apart, and it feels like life has just swallowed you whole. The only way to survive is for you to pull it together. No one sees your tears, no one hears your cries. You are drowning in sinking sand and then BOOM! God pulls you out of your mess and everything that tried to destroy and kill you; He turned into your new life. That’s what Pieces of Me is. It’s a journey through my life and the things I’ve overcome. We all have a story, and I hope mine helps someone in some way to at least begin to deal with the silent demons of their past. This book will take you on highs and lows and make you happy and sad. But the connection you can take away from it will surely touch you.


Jeanette MsNightLyfe Ferrell 
Jeanette MsNightLyfe Ferrell is an award winning, international poet, published columnist, author, activist, educator, and motivational speaker. MsNightLyfe has inspired audiences around the world with encouraging words, narrative changing workshops, and an unrelentless commitment to using the power of words to ignite change.

She has authored 3 books. What You Not Gon' Do: A Book of Say It Plain Notions and Poetry, published in July 2019 is MsNightLyfe's most recent publication. MsNightLyfe's first book, Velvet Truths, a book of poetry was published in 2013. Her second published work, Reclaiming My Time: A Practical Guide to Self-Care was released in 2016. She has been published in varous media outlets, to include Tagg Magazine and Swerv Magazine. Her poetic accolades includes international work with SpokenWord Paris in Paris, France and Vortex in London with Natalie Stewart (Floacist) of Floetry. MsNightLyfe was nominated the 2016 Spoken Word Artist of the year and the Erotic Poet of the year. She has also been crowned as the National Poetry Awards 2015 Erotic Poet of the Year. She is an associate producer and member of The Punany Poets, from HBO's Real Sex. 

What You Not Gon' Do: A Book of Say It Plain Notions and Poetry is a compilation of poems, encouraging quotes and gentle reminders that women don't seek permission. It says it plain...I don't need your permission to be Wild. Woman. Free, nor, am I asking.














Reclaiming My Time: A Practical Guide to Self-Care There is a tendency for women to pour themselves into everything and everyone but themselves. On the list of daily living self-care is often absent or at the very bottom of the list, and the time has presented itself for that to change. How does a woman of color put herself at the top of the To-do list?
The days of serving others without regard for self has begun to take its toll on even the strongest of women. Self-care is often put somewhere between sleeping and making breakfast for the kids in the morning. And while there is plenty of information available on how to care for everything from How to books on raising kids and increasing income, there seems to be a lack of information regarding self-care. How does a woman of color find the energy to care for herself when she selflessly gives herself to others in a society that does little to provide care for them?

Check out these amazing authors. Their works makes great stocking stuffers AND are perfect "go to books" no matter your reason for inquiry or purchase. 

"Buzzworthy Cravings, Creatively Satisfied!"

I Am Not My Hair: Police Me Not

Courtesy of Project Embrace

Back to school season has arrived. As if its not enough fulfilling school lists and figthing crowds for uniforms arent enough to keep parents busy, they must now also contend with what hairstyles violate school dress codes. For many people of color living and working in predominantly white spaces, its not difficult to imagine being told that the way your natural hair grows violates a school or place of business dress code or policy of professionalism. Furthermore, what perpetuates this narrative is the lack of afro textured hair in mainstream media and marketing. While there is a rise in women of status appearing in advertisements rocking their natural hair, there are still deficits in women sporting natural hair on large and very public platforms.

Whispering Roots Hair Care

For those of African descent, hairstyles associated with ethnic identity have often been singled out and targeted for discrimination. Across the United States, discrimination on the basis of hair is fleeting topic of discussion. California and New York are among the first to ban discrimination on the basis of hair. The New York City Commission of Human Rights states that the same law that prohibits discrimination based on race, gender, or religion applies to hair, which is ultimately an extension and intrinsic part of black identity. People across the country have reported various bouts of discrimination regarding their natural hairstyles and are often forced to cut it off or change it to "meet" codes of dress and/or professionalism.

For black people, hair is symbolic and a huge stance against the violation of civil rights. It is the rebellion whiteness and for a long time a stance against assimilation. In the event that you are
worried about your child's hair violating existing dress codes, it is suggested that you stand to break boundaries and change the perception, one coil at a time.

Watch WHAT You Allow In Your Head: Wood Combs and Natural Hair

Whispering Roots Hair Care Products

If you ask any black woman about their hair care experience while growing up, the stories you are bound to hear will be seemingly one of pain and torture. From pressing combs to ponytail holders there isn't a shortage of the horror that came from a typical moment of hair combing. Some of those pain inducing treasures are sitting in our bathroom cabinets right now....I'm not talking about barettes are harsh chemicals, im talking about plastic combs. You just flashed back to a time it felt like you were being stabbed, scratched and violated by a plastic comb in your hair.

Plastic combs are known to dig into the scalp and if you have thick (high density), dry (low porosity) hair then you know how torturous plastic combs are to the scalp and how damaging they can be to your natural tresses. Plastic combs are easy to produce, economical and durable compared to other (earlier) combs, such as wooden combs. Convenience and mass production made plastic combs the primary tool for separating hair follicles.

Wooden combs, however, are absolute must-haves for natural, thick and curly hair. Sandalwood combs are perfect for maintaining and encouraging the growth of natural hair. Using a sandalwood comb in your crown has a few benefits you may want to make note of.

Whispering Roots Hair Oil

Sandalwood combs don't produce static as often found in plastic/rubber based combs. This prevents hair breakage and helps detangle the hair. In addition the teeth of the comb massages the scalp as opposed to digging and scratching. This helps stimulate the scalp by increasing blood flow and encouraging nutrient deposits to the roots.The natural wooden fibers of the teeth of the comb helps condition the scalp distributing the natural oils from the roots down the hair to its ends. This helps minimze dandruff production. Using a wooden comb in your natural hair will give you that beautiful and healthy mane that you have been working so hard to maintain.

"Buzzworthy Cravings, Creatively Satisfied!"

Black Hair Don't Care: How to Manage Your Low Porosity, High Density Hair

Source: Youtube

The growth of the natural hair care business is booming! More women are returning to their roots, while caring for their roots. >Insert boisterous laughter here> No? Ok, bad joke aside, according to a research by Mintel, more black women in the United States of America are gravitating towards natural hair care products and this has seen an increase in the sale of hair styling products, which jumped to 26.8 percent between 2013 and 2015, reaching a value of $946 million which represents more than 16 percent of the overall hair industry. Black women are moving away from chemical based products, this change in lifestyle has created the boom in natural hair care product sales. 

While business is booming, there are a massive number of women that find it difficult to manage natural hair. Deciding to go natural involves a process almost as rigorous as the FBI hiring process. After finally taking the leap of faith to just do it, because why not, do the most liberating, socially rebellious thing as wearing the hair God gave the lady must:

*determine the type of hair they have (like seriously, what does the c in 4c hair even stand for?)

*identify if its low, medium or high porosity and density (My hair is poros? What is that? Is it bad? Is this why my hair is thick?)

*search high and low for the right hair care products (is there a medium search button for hair care products? i'm on product 8 bazillion and 5, i'd like to scale this back)

*research "growing hands" stlyists (Is this stylist a renowned edge whisperer?)

*develop an intense daily and weekly regiment to ensure healthy manageable hair (Why does my hair feel drier than the desert, I've moisturized daily?)

Whispering Roots Hair and Scalp Moisturizer

So, while getting back to the root of all is on a steady rise, choosing to properly care for your natural hair is not easy requires tenacity and werewithal. While there are several places to start, understanding your hair type can be the most difficult one to start with. No worries, we will provide a cliffsnotes version, a cheat sheet if you will to putting the pieces of your hair puzzle together. 

You've finally did the big chop and are now standing in the mirror envisioning yourself in the middle of the beauty supply with what seems to be miles and aisles of products. Where do you begin? How do you decide? Before you jet out the door, do a simple search on your hair type based on its porosity and density. Porosity is your hair's ability to absorb moisture/water. Low porosity hair is resistant to moisture and if tested (clean hair only) will float in a bowl of water. This hair type finds difficutly in getting water in and keeping it there. High porosity hair absorbs moisture greatly. This leads to frizzy hair. Choose products that are water soluble if you have low porosity hair as this aid in the reduction of build up and are rich in moisture. For high porosity hair choose products that protein rich and lightweight to avoid heavy hair. 

If you have ever heard an elder in your family say, "That baby sure has some thick hair" then you have an idea of what hair density is. It simply refers to the thickness of your hair. This is not be confused with the hair strand, but rather the thickness of your hair in any given section of your head. Thick hair bearers (high density hair) should use products that are heavier. However, beware if you are low porosity and high density as thicker products may block /seal the small folicle openings before moisture has a chance to penetrate. So always moisturize before sealing with heavier products. Low density hair should use leave-in conditioners that promises appearance of fuller hair. 

Now that you have had your science lesson on hair, lets discuss the economics of hair care products...in other words, let us examine how what supply of products your hair will demand. Low porosity hair should look for products with water and either coconut, sunflower, grapeseed, or argan oil in the first six ingredients. Jojoba, jamaican black castor oil, almond oil and shea butter will also work for sealing the moisture in. Adding heat to your regiment also helps hold moisture in. High porosity hair should seek products with avocado oil or high protein conditioners to help control the frizz. In addition to these products, creating a diy at home conditioner using any combination of these products that may work for you: honey, mayo, avocado, olive oil, and a banana. 

"Buzzworthy Cravings, Creatively Satisfied!"

REBEKAH LAUR'EN ANNOUNCES THE RE-RELEASE OF HER MEDITATIVE SOUL, HEAD BOPPING SELF REFLECTIVE ALBUM TITLED "SOBER": Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Washington, DC Release: May 7, 2019. For Immediate Release  

Rebekah Laur'en announces the re-release of her first album SOBER. 

First released in September of 2016, Rebekah Laur'en, after experiencing heartbreaks from ex lovers, friends, and even family, she wrote an album exposing her pain and sharing her process of healing. 

Rebekah Laur'en has reproduced and recreated the album, SOBER showcasing her original compositions and production. This re-release is a representation of the full development of belief in self. Rebekah Laur'en states:  "I didn't believe in myself when I first released the album back in 2016 which is why I asked another producer to produce the first project and although the producer was talented and amazing, it was not my sound  but through out time I've come into a different place with myself personally and professionally as a musician and as a person which reflects much of my growth and healing." 

Rebekah Laur'en recorded most of the album in her studio in VA. She kept some of the original songs that were collaborations with other producers such as, New York City Producer, LonzCity who produced the song "Dicentra" and Producer, Z. Gates who worked on tracks like "Escape" and "Confessions". 

SOBER is composed of 11 Tracks, each being it's own song while yet sticking to the solid story line. From the textures to the colorful sounds of her own unique touch to her music, you can't help but get lost in the flow of her music, lyrically and rhythmically. 

Rebekah Laur'en hopes that this album does for others what her music did for her in hard times and leading them to the process of healing. This is just the start for her as she is also journeying into her own indie label Sound Proof 4. With Sound Proof 4, Rebekah is recruiting artists healers who also bring about social awareness and a spiritual, mental and physical sense of liberation.

Rebekah will begin a  tour in the fall!  To keep up with dates, cities and locations go check her website: www.rlmusik.com and follow her instagram where she will be making constant updates: r.l_music. 

SOBER releases May 27th and will only be available on Bandcamp.com until June 1st, after June 1st SOBER will be available on all music streaming platforms. 

For an Exclusive peek into the album, SOBER, join Rebekah at the SOBER, album release party presented by Honey-Coated NightLyfe.

"Buzzworthy Cravings, Creatively Satisfied!"

Self-Care Isnt Feminism its Existentialism: Reclaiming My Time Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

(September 25, 2017)
WASHINGTON, DC- Poet and Author, Jeanette MsNightLyfe Ferrell in collaboration with Fast Pencil Publishing is releasing Reclaiming My Time: A Practical Gide to Self-Care on Barnes and Nobles, Amazon, and SweetToothMedia.com on September 25, 2017.

We live in a time where being a woman is minimized to objects of hypersexualization and the symbol of misogyny. To be a woman of color in an era of heightened racism and disregard is in and of itself a political statement. It is in this time that as women must attend to the need of caring for self.

In Reclaiming My Time: A Practical Guide To Self-Care, the author addresses the hard topic of self-love and applying that love to the care of women, particularly women of color. Within Reclaiming My Time: A Practical Guide To Self-Care, proper self care is defined and even in the busiest of times lends tools that can be used by any woman. Written using 'I am every woman' humor in a nuturing but firm tone, Reclaiming My Time: A Practical Guide To Self-Care,is what women have been waiting for.

Published by Fast Pencil Publishing. Digital and In print. ISBN-13: 978-1499903430 

For more information, to schedule interviews, book study and more visit www.SweetToothMedia.com 



"Buzzworthy Cravings, Creatively Satisfied!"

Be Your Family or Friends Keeper: Dealing With Mental Health

I have spoke on this particular subject once before (I Will End The Mental Illness Stigma) but it covered a broad range of mental illness and given resources for help. This time around I want to focus on a personal level. This time I want to give some helpful tips on how to help a person dealing with mental illness. The awesome organization NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) offers a free 12 session educational program designed for families, friends, or significant others to learn how to live with someone who suffers from mental illness. It helps those individuals improve the coping and problem-solving techniques when dealing directly with their affected loved one. To check out your local NAMI location just visit their website at www.nami.org.

Many families deal with mental illness especially within the African-American community that they either choose not to address it or don't know the signs. What they dont realize is that your mental health ultimately affects your physical health. Studies have shown poor emotional health can weaken  your immune system (familydoctor.org), which is why African-Americans lead when it comes to high blood pressure. So if you love someone who deals with mental illness help them, help you, help them...I'll explain. I have a dear friend who was recently diagnosed with bipolar, so whenever I know she is doing good, I worry less. When things are in a disarray I'm usually the anxious one and its usually her that calms me down. If she's ok I'm ok, see simple. Now every case may not be the same as ours, by all means we are not the best example of a best friend relationship, but even with the illness we make it work because we have both recognized and are treating our illness. Maybe you are not sure of the signs well here are a few:

1. Withdrawl-from family and no interest doing any activities
2. Nervousness- Constant suspiciousness of even those who are close to you, always feeling nervous.
3. Sleep and appetite changes- sleeping way more than usual or not getting any sleep at all. Either not eating enough or overeating.
4. Mood changes: When their emotions are to the extreme (extreme anger, extreme sadness etc)
5. Thoughts of suicide- If you or someone you know have had these thoughts or have attempted suicide there is help. Please call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255

I try to talk to my mom sometimes, and no lie its a challenge. I think its because she knows that mental illness is present with me she just doesn't know how to respond because dealing with someone with a mental illness is very very unpredictable. That is why I strongly encourage my readers to seek out every resource possible. Until then here are a few tips that I find helpful:

1. Let them talk- Sometimes all they want to know is that they have what is called a "safety spot". Where they come to someone and they know there will be no judgement, or will not get scolded. Do what you can to gain that person's trust.

2. Some things are going to sound repetitive: Be patient because a lot of things that people with anxiety deal with is worrying about the same thing until a solution is found, and then they begin to worry if the solution will work. Be reassuring with them and sometimes you may have to repeat yourself but it makes communication much easier. Just remain calm ad cool and your energy will pass along to those who are ill.

3. Don't remind them of their illness- You want to do whatever you can to avoid it, simply because they may not even be thinking about it. That is why its so important to spend time with the person with the illness, gaining trust. Do things that will distract them from focusing on their illness. Find a spot that gives them peace and serenity and go there often. Mine is the lake in Hermann Park in Houston,TX. Water soothes me and they also have the Japanese Garden which is so beautiful and peaceful, places like that.

4. Don't you change- You can be yourself around the person. You're close to them for a reason so dont treat them as if they have the illness, remember DO NOT remind them that they are ill. Remain positive and optimistic around them and this also helps eases the illness.

5. Congratulate them when they are doing well- Let them know that you see any changes that they have made. Remind them to always stay on their treatment or if they haven't started treatment encourage them to get help. Be available if they choose to go get treatment, no one wants to feel as if they are alone in getting help. Be open to any and all suggestions that the doctors or counselors may give and follow through.

Remember you can play a major part in helping a person with mental illness.

www.psychiatry.org 
http://www.calmclinic.com
http://www.webmd.com
www.nami.org.


Peace And Blessings
Swagg P
"Buzzworthy Cravings, Creatively Satisfied!"

The Revolution Will Not Be Televised and Will Not Include A Performance From Beyonce

"You will not be able to stay at home, brother
You will not be able to plug in, turn on and cop out
You will not be able to lose yourself on skag and
Skip out for beer during commercials
Because the revolution will not be televised"

Gilbert "Gil" Scott-Heron was a great African-American soul, jazz, poet, and "bluesologist" singer who created the poem and song "The Revolution Will Not Be Televised". As he complimented these powerful words alongside the beat or congas and bongo drums this message originally was a slogan among the 1960's  Black Power movement. It's lyrics focused on several TV shows, advertising slogans and icons of the entertainment and news coverage as examples of what "the revolution will not" be. His music also influenced the Hip-Hop and the Neo-Soul genres with his ability to both sing and rap in his songs such as in his album Pieces of a Man and also Winter in America. Which leads me to ask, will you be too caught up in the latest car commercial or anticipating the latest album from your favorite artist to realize when the revolution will be?

I've learned as a student of Communications I've learned the nuances of the underlining tools that the media tends to use when wanting the public to not focus on the bigger issues at hand. It seems these days with the power of social media a simple tweet between celebrities can distract millions from some of the world's most important issues. Now you are at the line in which you ask "Well are the celebrities really responsible for making people more socially conscious?", well I believe that will always be a question where we would have to agree to disagree. I however don't feel they are obligated but more so to be more thoughtful of how this could the shoes could be on the other foot. However one can hope and pray. Now I am not saying be so socially conscious to where you have to make everything in life a conspiracy theory, however don't let the wool go down too far over your eyes. Let's take for example the following current events: you have Beyonce stupendous Superbowl performance followed the very great performance given by Kendrick Lamar (which both are now on the Grammy winning list). Both performances were filled with racially conscious messages which me personally was expected from Kendrick from the gate he has made what I would say "consciously sound" music, but out steps Bey? Beyonce has become one of the world's biggest entertainers of our time, her music has always been universal, so her stepping into what may say in her "Alabama/Louisiana/Houston" roots kinda took me aback. I mean you have little girls of all races wanting to be her and here she was featuring her daughter Blue in her video with what a little formation of the future Destiny's Child. Then having a lineup of dancers with their afros and their Black Panther meets Michael Jackson 2010 SuperBowl influenced uniforms to shut down the halftime show (despite the almost fall that no one really caught because Beyonce is always on beat), and some of us our sitting like "Where did this come from?". By some of us I mean about 12 black people and ALLLLL of White America. Personally after a discussion with a few of my colleagues we can all agree WE WERE ALL HERE FOR IT! Now were we necessarily here for the extended promo she did at the end nah, we has a race were on a high and then BOOM by the way here is my tour. Its feels like well dang Bey can you let me black and proud and breathe this moment of Black Excellence that just took place at the most watched and paid for event EVER before you go the pockets? Now we can all agree hats off and kudos to that FABULOUS PR team, talk about the best eff'n timing on earth, however as I was watching I just wanted the moment to just last a but longer before something else was to grab our attention, hence the "distraction" tactic often used in the media and is a definitely a tool used in promotions.

Now by all means I'm now Beyonce hater but neither am I apart of the Beyhive. I am also not yet another lost soul, or coon, or sell out, or a Raven Simone as I have seen on FaceBook and Twitter whenever you say anything at all negative about Beyonce. I am black woman that realizes that it takes more than a song to fix what has been going on for at least over 100 years now. How that we have so much work and construction within our own community before we can fight any other battle. We openly and blatantly destroy our own community on a daily, whether its our black on black crime for materialistic things. When we pass up our black owned businesses because they don't have the labels of mainstream media that we feel we need to have to be accepted into society. I honestly didn't realize that society had a dress code hence the fact that your have so many different fashion designers everywhere. Maybe just maybe would it hurt to employ a black lawn service, or go support that young brother or sister trying to make a name for themselves in the fashion world. Can we not let the few bad business dealings that you have had within our community change your entire outview because wouldn't that be categorizing, which is a stigma we have been trying for years to break. I admit you have those whose antics set us back a few centuries however that is not the representative for our community, but unfortunately you have more and more souls selling to the highest bidder but that's another blog. I would just prefer and again this is just my preference to let local African-American trend more often. Beyonce has set and broken so many records and have many accolades behind her name. However what about the local man operating after school buildings out of his pocket just to offer sheild the youth from the drug infested environment they have to live in. The teacher that comes in early and stays late to ensure that her students get the most information possible in a low funded school. This is just a vision that I would like to see Let these words reside with you in love and hope, and not fault and hate.

                         





Peace And Blessings
Swagg P

"Buzzworthy Cravings, Creatively Satisfied!"

Press Release: Pink Elephant Festival Artist Spotlight: Lady BSmoove

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 19, 2016 Austin, TX

For full press release click here: http://tinyurl.com/zw72y7z

Featured Artist: Lady BSmoove

Vocalist, Songwriter, Author and Activist Lady Bsmoove has done it again! She is fervently geared up to release her 2nd debut production, Live Love Dream; an album and book project filled with Truth, Universal-Love, Power and Courage, and a little bit of her soul.

With her first self-publishing project (2nd debut album) Lady Bsmoove gives her audience the opportunity to see life through her heart, determination and movement. Working with artists like Original Soul (musician and producer), Mario “Mr. Havic” Porter (producer), Donald Story (singer and producer) and Drin Elliot (keyboardist) offered her the creative space and development to artistically cross boundaries, raise expectations and progressively speak truth throughout the art of her poetry and music.

Laby Bsmoove’s musical and inspired journey began in 2006 while hosting and performing at The Kaffe Coffee House in Dallas, Texas, alongside several phenomenal artists from the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex area. Since then, her poems and lyrics have been published in Voices of Poetry, Volume 4 and 5 by Regent Publishing. Her works have also been nominated for a Legacy of Success Foundation Award for Best Literary Works and a UBE Ally Award.

Since her start in this creative arts world Laby Bsmoove have shared the stage with the likes of Malcom Jamal Warner, Audacious IAM, Michael Guinn, Kevin Dupree, and many more; while featuring on stages from The Black Academy of Arts and Letters (Dallas, Texas), Dallas LGBT Pride Monthly Kick Off at City Hall and Dallas Pride Celebration (Dallas, Texas – 2012, 2013), Muse Theater (Dallas, Texas), Fahari Arts Institute (Dallas, Texas), The HeArt Series (Houston, TX), The Boys and Girls Club of Memphis (Memphis, TN) and many more. In 2010 Lady Bsmoove joined forces with poet and spoken word artist Audacious IAM and went on tour, sharing her work throughout Texas, Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee and Georgia on The Southern Made Tour.

Not only is Lady Bsmoove a performance artist she was the Co-Owner and Event Coordinator of SmooveQ’s Entertainment and Catering Company in 2009 up until 2011. Throughout this journey she and her business partner produced (and collaborated) several events and productions throughout the DFW Metroplex. She also was co-host of the radio show, KEBNradio.com together with Kia D and Audacious IAM.

She released her 1st debut album, Thought You Knew (Independent Project) in October of 2008 and it was sold in stores throughout the DFW Metroplex and at shows/events from Dallas, Texas to Atlanta, Georgia.

In 2012 Lady BSmoove was seen as the best candidate to host to host the 3rd Annual South Dallas AIDS Walk in Dallas, Texas. Recently she was featured in the documentary film, Beneath My Skin (June 2014) while have written the title poem. She continues to be not only an artist, but an entrepreneur and activist who continue to fight; reminding us all to Live, Love and Dream –NO MATTER WHAT.

To review more facts and knowledge about Laby Smoove and her movement you may review the following published interviews with her; Dallas Lit Monthly Magazine, Dallas Voice.

Don’t forget to follow Lady Bsmoove on
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram


www.ladybsmoove.wix.com/ladybsmoovemusic
www.cdbaby.com/ladybsmoove
www.facebook.com/ladybsmoove
www.youtube.com/ladybsmoove




                                         


















































"Buzzworthy Cravings, Creatively Satisfied!"

LBGT: Let's Bash Gays Together

               I come in peace I swear, but let's discuss this title and give me a chance to explain. Picture this, we have this female for the sake of the example let's call her Pamela. Pamela grew up in a single parent home, it was a house full of women. Her mother was strong, so she did everything on her own. She raised Pamela and her sibling showing them the true meaning of "Girl Power" and instilled in them a strong sense of independence. Once Pamela got older and starting to experience physical attractions, women always gave her a stronger feeling. However Pamela was raised with very religious grandparents so she always fought with the "your going to hell if your're gay" feeling. So Pamela continued to go a and date guys and be the typical teenager. When Pamela turned 16 she met a guy. Everything a 16 year old ever wanted, he was in college, car, and job and he wanted her. As time progressed the relationship turned bad, so bad that she was raped by him. After years of praying, crying, healing, therapy and soul searching Pamela felt safe again to start dating. By this time she was in adulthood, and she had then grew apart from the religion yet still spiritually grounded, and decided she would fulfill this desire and the hidden love for women. Her first girl experience was just as mind blowing and soul touching as she imagined and she then knew, this is where her happiness lies.

             Now Pamela is at a point in her life where she finally feels comfortable standing in her truth and embrace the fact that she still had a slight attraction to men. Now does that attraction outweigh her attraction to women, nope not by a long shot however, she was willing to explore this attraction just to see if this is what she really wanted. After her first encounter with the opposite sex she was sure, more confident that if she must be labeled she is now bi-sexual. After the many years of her standing firm in her lesbian title, and being open enough to admit she was once a part of the "bash the bi's" club she was now on the other side *insert Adele Hello here*. For a while Pamela battled on who to tell, no one knew about her encounter and how much she enjoyed it because her dear close friends are not only lesbians, but masculine centered lesbians. Her thoughts would consist of, what would they say? Will they stay by my side or leave immediately? Would they now place me in the horrid stigma of bi-sexual women? It ate her up inside so finally she told them. The love and embrace was everything Pamela wanted and needed. Now Pamela knows that the rest of the world may not be so acceptive for many view bi-sexuals as "confused", but she had her those that loved her for her and now Pamela wakes up every morning living her truth.

                        Unlike Pamela not many can say they can wake up and live in their truth, and I believe in the LBGT community the B and the T seem to get shamed the most. This is not just in society but unfortunately within our own community. You would think since the rest of society already outcast and continuously frown upon us that we within the community would be more caring and supportive of our own. Yet on a daily basis whether it social media or even out in public I see my fellow brothers and sisters in the community frowning, and being nasty and derogatory towards our own. Its like the famous William Shakespeare play Julius Caesar, the quote "et tu, Brute" comes to mind. Now to sit and say that some under those 2 letters don't make it easy for the derogatory terms to be allowed is truth. Those that tend to withhold important information such as true gender identity, or not being upfront with where their attraction lies tend to happen often. Right now as I type there is a transgender man/woman who is talking to someone and not telling them their true gender, however that could be with anyone. Its a married man right now telling a single young woman he is "divorced" or "getting a divorce" with absolutely no intention on doing so. It's a female right now telling some single young man that her kids are her nieces and nephews, deception is everywhere. However this can not be a label put on everyone under these letters. There are transgender men/women who let you know up front who you are getting. There are bi-sexual women and men that will tell you upfront I am bi-sexual. There are those who live in their truth DAILY. I don't believe in one person being a representation for all, that asinine. Each are their own individual living comfortably in their own skin and will not be held back by any stigma period!

                         Many may agree and feel "well this is someone's preference why let what others think of them stop them?" Because let's be honest it does affect them some way. To look to at every social media outlet, and television and constantly see the continuous misconceptions being played and discussed affects those who are currently bi-sexual or transgender or would like to come out as bi-sexual or trans mental and emotional state. Speaking on my behalf, it wasn't easy at all. I had hella insecurities and the responses to the many questions that I was about to face. To be honest I didn't have the answers Sway, because I'm still in the learning process. A wise person once said "You learn something new everyday" and that includes yourself.  It was the harsh responses of previous associates that stood in their truth that had me scared. By all means, I have visions and goals and ideas to share with the world and damn it I want to taken seriously. It is a very difficult task when people are adding to the stigma on daily. I mean who's to say this isn't the beginning of a change? Hell what if my blog is the blog that cleared the hatred within our own community so that we may stand stronger in numbers for the real battle which is society. I mean a girl can dream huh? At the end of the day I'm responsible for me and my mark that I leave in the world. Although the hippie part of me wants us the L B G and T to all be standing proudly under that flag, its just not that easy. I know that me myself (Pamela) will definitely play my part in ending the stigma.







SwaggP

"Buzzworthy Cravings, Creatively Satisfied!"

Write The Vision

" A man without a vision is a man without a future. A man without a future will always return to his past." -P.K. Bernard. As the year came to a close I have saw a few of my visions come to pass that I didn't really see coming. However, I still have work that needs to be done on a personal and career level. I tend to set goals and have visions in my mind often and I do everything with them but write them down. By the time the opportunity comes around, well everything that shouldn't have sidetracked me did and now I don't remember anything. It sucks, it's frustrating, and makes me feel that maybe that opportunity may not come back around. So one of the many changes I have decided starting the new year is what I want to call the write out. Now I'm not coming with the typical "new year new me bladah bladah bladah" but yet discipline myself today for a better tomorrow. So I ask have you written out your vision board yet?

Now some may have already heard and started or already completed your board. For a few you may not be sure on where to start. Well here are a few things to keep in mind while planning out your vision board.

1. A vision board is everything you've envisioned in plain site. When you close your eyes and daydream, or when you calculate a plan you typically in your head see how its going to turn out through your eyes. So why not print out what you see. Whether it be finishing school, traveling more, reconnecting with someone or something. Whatever it may be that puts a fire under you and fills your heart with joy. That constant thought, that is what is called your vision.

2. Nothing is too big or too small, don't minimize anything If it's Paris for summer vacation then put up all the sights you want to see when you get there. If its a BMW put up a photo of the exact car you want. You want to see the things that motivate you to do more in life. Some may say speaking it into existence (Isaiah 55:11- So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return  unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper [in the thing] whereto I sent it) those fluid in faith understands this and how important it is when making your vision plain.

3. A little information is better than none. Start finding out the beginning steps to make the vision come to life. I'm currently working on a shirt line that caters to the plus size community. I have already started looking into what's needed to start this the right way, and I feel so close to this vision being complete. So whether it's a restaurant or even a non-profit organization start finding out things that you can do right now to get that started.

4. I believe that it's ok to have 2 boards, one for the parents and one for kids. Parents can then set goals for themselves outside the family. Spa Ma Days and for my single fathers Daddy's Duty-less Day. Set plans as a family such as 2 vacations this year instead of 1. To spend more time talking to each other before it gets to a point where everyone is talking at each other. For couples start making date nights more frequent. Listen to your mate as they speak in general conversations and surprise them with a creative date or the date of their dreams. At the end of the day don't forget the things that made you a family. Kids are included, start them early. Whether it's all A's throughout the first semester, or maybe being more active in school (clubs, bands, sports), or preparing for college whatever their vision is help them put it on a board. Make it a family date and everyone work on their board together.

5. When it comes to finance, print out any of the many saving challenges. Choose the one that fits perfectly with your finances, there is such a large variety that way you don't have to try to do something that is not within range. I found the most helpful one on https://www.pinterest.com/explore/savings-challenge/ 

At the end of the day a vision board is there as a reminder not to take the eyes off of the prize. Remember not to let negative energy and people around you while in the process of completing your goals. Start on the small things now like knowledge and the beginning steps, because we must crawl before we walk. But after a while the small stuff can then lead to bigger things, things that will bring you one step closer to your vision. Stay strong, stay focused, you got this!
                                   




Peace And Blessings
Swagg P
"Buzzworthy Cravings, Creatively Satisfied!"

End Of The Year Reaches

Well readers we are all at the wonderful time of the year where everyone with a social media account goes on an entirely long list of what they are not going to do in 2016, and now memes have made it even more convenient. Now Im not the one to say whether out not that person will or will not do so but according to Forbes approximately 8% of people actually keep their New Years Resolution, mighty dim right? You also have your closures, those that just need to clean and clear out their conscience because bringing that into the new year is not an option. Now keep in mind some people take this time of the year to "feasts on their prey" those that take their misfortunes and use them as a ploy tacit on another's weaken emotions, no, not those, they gets no love from me. Im speaking of those really in their heart committed to make a change for the better. I applaud those, the shit aint easy, especially when you cant see the wrong you did, but something in your heart just cant let them go. That person has impacted your life so much that they were one of the lucky ones to become embedded in your heart, and to cut them out, is to cut a piece of your heart. And yeah you know that time heals all wounds, but who wants to expect a wound coming? However I myself have a closure. Mine is a closure of a what was once a beautiful friendship. It was a tale of 2 misinterpreted individuals who met each others needs like no other. Whatever I needed whether it was a shopping trip or date he was the one to call (using the correct pronoun for the situation). We had dreams that we were gonna help each other to achieve and jealously and hatred reared its ugly head and next thing you know, no calls returned, no text, no nothing. Will we ever be the same if paths ever cross, I know realistically no, but just know I miss you and this open letter is for you, may God send it your way. For those who may have had a falling out with someone and you know damn well it was something you could have gotten past, let me say PRIDE will get your whole life put on the sideline. Because why put off tomorrow what can be done today. Why let something a small and dumb as pride let you loose out on a lifetime friend. Don't ever let the bad outweigh the good, because finding good in people nowadays is finding a needle in a haystack. So just something to think over let this letter inspire you..


Dear Mr. West,


Last night I had a dream man real crazy. It was a dream of deep down how I miss you so much. In my dream I was holding your trans man hand and we were talking and laughing and dancing like we used to. Holding each other oh so close like we used to. Your hearty accent chopping away at my heart like it used to. At work overnight you used to satisfy my insomnia appetite and until the sun came me and you shared our lives our hopes our failures and downfalls with each other...it don't feel right if I do it with another. Because I know somewhere deep inside there is a robe gavel and jury waiting and with you I have no doubt that when we hang up and you call back you still love me no matter what and that's a known fact. But what is unknown is where the future lies, will our paths cross again or is this the year our friendship has died. And if it is not written in Gods plans than so be it but pray for me because this lost will be particularly hard because all ever wanted was you me and our unbreakable bond under some island stars...I'm sorry...ttyl...or goodbye.




Peace and Blessings
Swagg P





"Buzzworthy Cravings, Creatively Satisfied!"

iGrind

iGrind because God grants me a new opportunity to do so everyday he wakes me up
iGrind because I have future generations that will be affected by my current decisions
iGrind because I never want to see another bad day if I don't have to
iGrind for those who couldn't find a better way in enough time
iGrind for those whose light was dimmed way too soon.
iGrind for those who will soon carry my namesake
iGrind for those paying with their lives for our race sake (moment of silence)
iGrind because this is what I have been taught since I was small
Either go for it all, or don't go for it at all...
iGrind



Peace and Blessings
Swagg P

"Buzzworthy Cravings, Creatively Satisfied!"

End of The Year Purge Prt. 1 (Poetry Flow)

  All I ever wanted anyone to see is that I am a woman. I am a woman who loves love, in any form. I am a woman who love the love I receive from God on daily basis from the time he awakens me until the time I slumber and grants me the mercies of a brand new day. Even when I don't always do right he still love me. I don't have to pretend to be anyone else but me with him, and yet unconditional love still exist.

  The love from a mother to a daughter. The "No matter what you do you are my child" kind of love. The "You love who you love and I still love you" kind of love. The late night hospital visits, the moments that scared you and you prayed to God for him to spare your child's life love. The we can praise and worship together love, that real best friends til the end type love.

  The warmth of family and loved ones "Glad to see you" kind of love, the "I'm so proud of you" love, the "I look to you and up to you" love. The "I know you always got my back" love, the feeling when all ya people in one place chilling love. Where have you been or the I'm sorry kinda love. Even those who spew evil lies and unnecessary false statements continuously from the moment they wake up until the moment they lay their head to sleep, guess what, that's love too, just an alternative way of showing it I guess.

  The love that I yet long for is that wake up in the morning and lay down at night with you for life  love. Out of nowhere let's take a trip love. That I ride, we ride kinda love. It's a we us our thing and get still hold your own kind of love. The "We refuse the see the bottom" type love. That I want to be here kind of love, I will fight for you kind of love. I will never give up on you, I'm never too far kind of love. I'm gonna love you through your pain and do my best to never cause you pain kind of love. That when we are old and gray that you will promise me that you will look into my eyes and see the person you first met and fall in love with me all over again, for the rest of your life..love. Just, Love.

Sincerely,
The Rhythm of My Heart








Peace and Blessings
Swagg P

"Buzzworthy Cravings, Creatively Satisfied!"

3 Month Dating Holiday Rules

I'm always coming to you guys with blogs that inform and leave a message on your minds and heart. Well this entry is what i like to call funny/serious and this is for those who like myself has met someone and have recently started dating. Now here comes the holidays and your are thinking in your head "Finally someone to answer the question, so are you dating?" and then you wish a large spotlight shines down on your date and a background announcer introduces him or her. Yeah that would be great, but there is this thing called reality that may not let that scenario happen. So here are some of my tips on 3 month dating and holidays:

                       

                                    3 Month Dating Holiday Rules

1. Gifts are appreciated, they are appreciated more when you pick on something through general conversation that they may have mentioned they wanted, so be attentive.

2. Do not leave kids out, you knew they came with kids after a few conversations be as godly as possible and take car of the kids and the elderly please geesh. (Only if asked to be a participant)

3. We will have our own SEPARATE Christmas I wont merge you into my dysfunction any earlier than 6 months tops, gives you time to build your tolerance level and possibly mine because only God knows whats going on with your people (insert no shade here)

4. For those with the over-achiever spirit now is a time to put it away because it is the most small simple intimate moments that make the best memories, so don't go get a big ass tree and a dancing Santa when its just you and them tone it down.

5. Invites are acceptable if that person has no family or no place to go, show kindness God will smile on you for it.

6. Don't volunteer too much information too soon, you are not at a interview stage point in your relationship there is no need to submit work info, gym info, etc. that's how pop ups happen NOPE!

7. Most importantly don't start making wedding plans after one successful holiday you make plans after the 3rd horrific dysfunctional one if you haven't left by then you wont be leaving face it.


Now I'm no expert so by all means you don't have to follow these particular rules however, I have lived and learned and it comes with experience. But if you feel as if hell maybe you have tried it all and why not try one more thing...just thank me later....just kidding!




Peace and Blessings,
Swagg P





"Buzzworthy Cravings, Creatively Satisfied!"

Verbal and Cyber Homicide

     I believe the old saying goes "What you eat don't make me shit", meaning what you have going on has absolutely nothing to do with anything I have going on. Yet it seems as if social media and over heated emotions has made it available for other to state opinion and abrasively place their distaste of others life decisions. Cyber bullying is the act or harming or harassing via any type of information technology (computer, laptop, cell phone, tablet/IPad). According to U.S. Legal Definitions, cyber-bullying could be limited to a person spreading rumors or gossips about a person on the internet bringing about hatred in other's minds; or it may go as far as personally identifying victims and publishing materials that may cause severe damage to their character and humiliating them. Now

      Cyber-bullying became the focus when young teenagers would get online whether it be chat rooms or social media sites (Myspace) and basically say anything they wanted with no consequences behind it, mind it I said TEENAGERS someone will catch that later however I digress. However I have witness a large  portion of adults forming on the same platforms now (Facebook now gives you the option to set up your own "groups") as well as other social media outlets and truly fulfilling the true definition of "cyberbullying". I have personally witness some things so horrendous on my TL and I sit and what other find entertaining my first thought is "Where is that person's mind frame right now". I say that because 1 in 4 adults which is approximately 61.5 million Americans alone suffer from some sort of mental disorder or illness with only a 25% of them actually knowing and recognizing it. I also know because I am one in that 61.5 million. So whenever I see it I have now learned not to even look and follow the entertainment, that is even worse, because lets just say this embarrassment was the last one that this person could take. Because you never fully know what all a person truly has going on in their life what if this social media spectacle was all that they could bare and the only way they see out is death. Because the truth is suicide is the tenth leading cause of death in the U.S. (more common than homicide) and the third leading cause of death for ages 15 to 24 years. Also Proverbs 18:21 states "Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and those that love it shall eat the fruit therof. Now is where my title become full circle. The moment that you get online, no the moment the thought comes in your head on what you plan to say and or do to bring this persons character and self esteem down to its complete lowest you are in the act of committing verbal and cyber homicide.

                   Here is where my confusion comes in and also my unwarranted opinion. The simple question is WHAT IN THE ENTIRE HELL DOES IT HAVE TO DO WITH YOU? No, seriously. I mean can you take this person business or embarrassment and go to your leasing office and drop it off and say "Hey here's Jane Doe's business is that enough for this month rent?" You can not call you local light company up and say "Hey did you know Bobby XYZ did this, ok does this take of my balance?" Each and every time guaranteed they person on the other end is going so to say and followed by a very confused look. You gained 0.00 extra on your check for tearing down someone, you gain NOTHING. It also make me wonder what issues as an adult have you not worked out from your childhood, yes childhood because your behavior is that of a child. The overwhelming part about it is, this behavior is coming from adults with kids, who are doing nothing but raising another generation of verbal and cyber homicidal people. I ask beg and plead, when does this cycle end? When will we go back to the days of using social media for its actual intent, to be social with family friends that you don't have immediate contact with. I am pretty sure it was create with the intent to unify instead its causing people to loose their lives. Can we please take back social media for its actual intent, uplift and not destroy is the key.

Sources:
http://www2.nami.org/factsheets/mentalillness_factsheet.pdf
http://biblehub.com/



Peace and Blessings
Swagg P


"Buzzworthy Cravings, Creatively Satisfied!"

October Is LGBT History Month: Know Your History

So October is National LGBT History month, and I think it's important to know and honor those who have made the way possible to the freedom and right that we have today. This year one of the biggest accomplishments we as a community received was the right to get legally married in all 50 states. However, I decided to focus more on the African-American community because we as a community have contributed a large amount in the LGBT history. Here are just a few of them:




                                                              Alice Walker 

Writer  Alice Walker earned a Pulitzer Prize for her novel The Color Purple, which went to film. It stayed in theaters for 21 weeks and grossed over 142 million dollars worldwide. As a civil rights activist she walked in the 1963 March on Washington and volunteered to register black voters in Georgia and Mississippi. 

                                                                    Bayard Rustin

Black civil right activist Bayard Rustin not only was an adamant supporter of gay rights, he also was Martin Luther King Jr.'s advisor and personal secretary. Rustin helped organize the 1963 March on Washington.

Patrik Ian Polk

Patrik Ian Polk is and openly gay film director who is known for his films on the African American LGBT experience and relationships. Polk's 2008 film "Noah's Ark: Jumping The Broom" won a GLAAD Award for Best Feature Film and was nominated for 3 NAACP awards.

E Lynn Harris

E. Lynn Harris was best known for his writing, which explored African American men who were closeted or on the "down-low." After quitting his job as a computer salesmen Harris discovered his his passion for writing. He sold his first self-published novel, Invisible Life, out of the trunk of his car. 10 out of his 11 novels made The New York Times Best Seller list. 

RuPaul

A long-time fixture in the New York nightlife community, RuPaul rose to prominence with his hit single and music video "Supermodel (Of The World)" in 1993. Credited as the master of transformation, his career is still going strong with the success of his hit reality show "RuPaul Drag Race and the history makers don't end here.

Wanda Sykes- Emmy award-winning comedian, first African-American woman and openly gay entertainer at the White House Correspondent's Association dinner in 2009. 

Bruce Nugent- writer, painter of the Harlem Renaissance his first short story "Smoke, Lilies, and Jade" was the first publication by an African American that openly discussed homosexuality.

Kye Allums- the first Division I openly transgender athlete in NCAA sports history. Kye is currently an transgender advocate and founder of Project I Am Enough dedicated to self-love and self-definition for everyone.

There are so many more on a daily basis making history. Some that don't always get the spotlight.  It is important to know as well as share the history and knowledge to acknowledge and know how far we have to go. If you are someone you know may need different LGBT resources here are some below:

http://www.thehotline.org/ (domestic violence)

http://www.hrc.org/ (coming out) 

http://lgbthistorymonth.com/ (history) 

http://nationalhomeless.org/ (shelters)

Peace and Blessings,
SwaggP




"Buzzworthy Cravings, Creatively Satisfied!"