For an expectant mom, bed rest is far from the rest and relaxation Monday morning daydreams are made of, Plano, Texas mom Stephanie Johnson can attest. The former corporate finance maven spent 26 weeks out of commission last year while pregnant with her daughter, Harlow Grace.
But as harrowing as her experience was, leaving her daughter with a nanny after six weeks and heading back into the corporate world was far worse, Johnson said.
"After 26 weeks trying to get this baby here, I wanted to spend every moment that I had with her," Johnson told The Huffington Post. "I had to find something that was going to sustain my lifestyle and afford me the luxury to be home with my daughter, and I just went for it," she says of the business venture she launched just two months after giving birth.
Johnson explained how she did it, and how fellow "mompreneurs" can, too.

Mommy In Chief Money help matters

A great video to help you and your child with money matters!!

 

Sweet Blackberry was founded by actor/writer, Karyn Parsons (The Fresh
Prince of Bel Air). As a new mom, Parsons was motivated by a strong
desire to instill a sense of culture and heritage to her daughter. Inspired
by her own mother and upbringing, Parsons created Sweet Blackberry—
delivering to all children, stories that need to be told and heard.

We launched to critical acclaim in February 2005 with our first DVD
release, “The Journey of Henry ‘Box’ Brown.” Narrated by Emmy award-
winning actress, Alfre Woodard, “The Journey of Henry ‘Box’ Brown”
brings to life for young children an extremely important chapter in
American History, telling an extraordinary tale of human courage about
a man who shipped himself, in a box, from Virginia to Philadelphia to
freedom.

Sweet Blackberry’s second film, “Garrett’s Gift,” was narrated by award-
winning actress, Queen Latifah. It tells the story of young Garrett Morgan,
a creative-minded child who was finally able to focus his talents and
energies and become one of the country’s most highly regarded inventors.

Both of these entertaining and inspiring films have both enjoyed a long run
on HBO and HBO Family, and have garnered several awards, including
the Parent’s Choice Award.

At Sweet Blackberry, we are creating content that works across multiple
media platforms, leveraging the power of stories to teach and reach young
children…wherever and whoever they may be.

This culture is American culture; this history is American History.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ar8N0BPIUZ8

http://vimeo.com/19301651

Mommy book club for boys

Christopher Paul Curtis crafts another remarkable character, 10-year-old Bud “Not Buddy” Caldwell in this fascinating tale, set in Flint, Michigan during the 1930s. Bud, an orphan, runs away from abusive foster parents and embarks on a quest to find a man he thinks is his father, jazz musician Herman E. Calloway. Guided only by intuition and an old concert flyer, Buddy eventually makes his way to Grand Rapids, experiencing adventure after adventure along the way. Curtis’ storytelling will capture the imagination of any young mind and will show young readers that, like Buddy, nothing can stop a strong mind and a strong will.
http://www.amazon.com/Buddy-first-Curtis-Christopher-Paul/dp/B00BTM5ET0/ref=sr_1_6?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1373325065&sr=1-6&keywords=%27Bud%2C+Not+Buddy%27+by+Christopher+Paul+Curtis

 

 

 

Author Jabari Asim weaves a rhythmic tale that answers the catchy question “Whose knees are these?” The fun, vivid illustrations feature an African-American character who discovers that his knees are “brown,” “strong,” and “fine.” Our sons will also learn that they should love the brown skin they’re in. This picture book is a perfect bedtime story for your littlest readers.
http://www.amazon.com/Whose-Knees-These-Jabari-Asim/dp/0316735760/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1373325266&sr=1-1&keywords=%27Whose+Knees+Are+These%3F%27+by+Jabari+Asim

This is a great book for any young reader struggling to figure out what makes them unique. In this charming story, the author’s younger brother, Linden, can’t seem to find his “it.” His brother and sister have both found their special talent but Linden still isn’t sure. However, after a trip to the dentist and a discussion with his family about faith, Linden soon discovers his life path: to be a dentist himself. Little boys will learn that with faith and hard work, anything is possible.
http://www.amazon.com/You-Can-Do-Tony-Dungy/dp/1416954619/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1373325377&sr=1-1&keywords=%27You+Can+Do+It%21%27+by+Tony+Dungy

So many of our young boys want to be like Mike and this picture book will give them the play-by-play for success. Jordan’s mother and sister teamed up as co-authors, giving us an intimate look at Jordan’s early life. Jordan was so insecure about his height he almost gave up the game, especially after an oversized bully teased him on the court. Frustrated, he asks his mother what might make him grow. She suggests putting salt in his shoes and saying a prayer every night. His dad later explains that salt might not make a difference but determination and hard work will. Like Mike, our sons can also chase their dream—despite their self-doubts.
http://www.amazon.com/Salt-His-Shoes-Michael-Pursuit/dp/0689834195/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1373325486&sr=1-1&keywords=%27Salt+In+His+Shoes%3A+Michael+Jordan+in+Pursuit+of+a+Dream%27+by+Deloris+Jordan

 

There is no question that Martin Luther King Jr.’s 1963 speech is one of the most important recorded moments in history. Now, through breathtaking illustrations, our youngest readers can relive the words of this powerful man. Our sons will be uplifted by King’s message of equality, peace, love, and most importantly, freedom. This timeless book is a definite must read for any young man of color
http://www.amazon.com/I-Have-Dream-Book-CD/dp/0375858873/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1373325604&sr=8-1&keywords=%27I+Have+a+Dream%27+by+Martin+Luther+King+Jr.%2C+Illustrated+by+Kadir+Nelson

 

Booker T. Washington is one of our most celebrated and critiqued African-American historical figures. This vivid picture book focuses on his early struggle to earn an education. Trekking more than 500 miles with only 50 cents in his pocket, Washington traveled on foot to Hampton Institute, where he later received his college degree. Washington went on to educate freedman across the country. His relentless pursuit of his educational goal is a shining example for any young man with a dream.
http://www.amazon.com/Fifty-Cents-Dream-Booker-Washington/dp/0316086576/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1373325711&sr=1-1&keywords=%27Fifty+Cents+and+a+Dream%3A+Young+Booker+T.+Washington%27

Young boys are sure to be inspired by the life of Satchel “Satch” Paige. Paige was the first African-American player to pitch in the major leagues and to be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. The husband-and-wife duo depicts the dazzling success of one of baseball’s best through rhythmic words and rich illustrations. This book will motivate our sons to strive for their personal best—on and off the field.
http://www.amazon.com/Satchel-Paige-Lesa-Cline-Ransome/dp/0689856814/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1373325802&sr=1-1&keywords=%27Satchel+Paige%27+by+Lesa+Cline-Ransome

Comedian and pop culture icon, Bill Cosby, masterfully tackles one of life’s most difficult emotions: grief. In this short chapter book, the main character Little Bill meets an eccentric but kind neighbor, Alan Mills. Mills’ life lessons about compassion have a profound impact on Little Bill and his entire family. He leaves a legacy that lingers, even after his untimely death. This touching story provides a beautiful example of how young boys and grown men deal with grief, anger and loss. It also shows that boys and men cry too

http://www.amazon.com/Little-Bill-12-Father-level/dp/0590521993/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1373325918&sr=1-1&keywords=%27The+Day+I+Saw+My+Father+Cry%27+by+Bill+Cosby

 

 

Set in Tanzania during the 1960s, this delightful tale follows the life of Saruni, a young boy with big plans to purchase a red-and-blue bicycle. He hopes to use the bicycle to help his mother carry her heavy loads to and from the market but meets disappointment when he realizes his “secret money stash” won’t be nearly enough. Saruni, however, gets a bicycle due to an unexpected gift from his father. Young boys will learn that in the end perseverance and determination can help them overcome any obstacle in their path.
http://www.amazon.com/Rows-Piles-Coins-Tololwa-Mollel/dp/0395751861/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1373326015&sr=1-1&keywords=%27My+Rows+and+Piles+of+Coins%27+by+Tololwa+M.+Mollel

 

Award-winning artist Kadir Nelson captures the essence of one of our most beloved spirituals in a series of awe-inspiring illustrations. The lyrics of the song serve as a fitting backdrop to Nelson’s rich paintings. Readers get to see the world through the unique lens of a young African-American boy living in San Francisco. Through this beautiful picture book, our sons will learn that our “whole world” is connected and we each play a part in making it a better place.
http://www.amazon.com/Hes-Got-Whole-World-Hands/dp/0142416355/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1373326100&sr=1-1&keywords=he%27s+got+the+whole+world+in+his+hands+kadir+nelson










 

 

 

 

 

Mommy Book Club for girls

through her Nana’s eyes. In Nana’s house, there are no mirrors and the narrator doesn’t notice her “imperfections”—clothes that don’t fit, a nose that’s too flat, or skin that’s too black. This story teaches brown girls that it’s their character that defines them—not their circumstances.

 

http://www.amazon.com/No-Mirrors-My-Nanas-House/dp/0152052437/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1373322780&sr=8-1&keywords=%27No+Mirrors+in+My+Nana%27s+House%27

 

This African take on the classic fairytale Cinderella features beautiful illustrations and teaches girls the true meaning of beauty. Set in Africa, the story features two sisters: Nyasha, who is kind as well as beautiful and Manyara, who is spoiled with a bad temper. Little readers won’t be surprised to learn who becomes queen in the end. There aren’t any blue ball gowns or fairy godmothers in this story. Instead, brown girls will fall in love with an African queen who’s beautiful, inside and out.
http://www.amazon.com/Mufaros-Beautiful-Daughters-John-Steptoe/dp/B000S6A3QC/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1373323065&sr=8-2&keywords=%27Mufaro%27s+Beautiful+Daughters

This delightful story teaches girls to love their hair and their heritage. The affirmative “I love my hair!” really teaches girls to say “I love myself!” A familiar ritual of combing the tangles from a head full of kinks and curls will give brown girls something to relate to in the story. This book, which starts with tears ends in triumph as the narrator imagines the many styles she can wear her kinky, curly hair. Definitely a great read for any girl who is struggling with loving every bit of her brown girl self.

http://www.amazon.com/Love-Hair-Natasha-Anastasia-Tarpley/dp/0316523755/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1373323171&sr=1-1&keywords=%27I+Love+My+Hair+by+Natasha+Anastasia+Tarpley

 

A young girl searches for beautiful things in her inner-city neighborhood and finds that they are actually all around her. Her neighbors show her that there is a lot of beauty in the little things—from a fried fish sandwich to a smooth stone. This story is perfect for teaching our daughters perspective: it’s our outlook that determines our outcome.
http://www.amazon.com/Something-Beautiful-Sharon-Dennis-Wyeth/dp/0440412102/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1373323397&sr=1-1&keywords=%27Something+Beautiful%27+by+Sharon+Dennis+Wyeth

Poetic verses promote self-esteem in this fun read about “frizz and fuzz,” “short tight naps” and “plaited strands.” In this vibrant book, a headful of naps is considered a “crown” or “halo.” So, whether rocking braids, a press’n’curl or afro puffs, girls can learn to do any do’ with pride.

http://www.amazon.com/Happy-Be-Nappy-Jump-Sun/dp/B0002OKA22/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1373323549&sr=1-1&keywords=happy+to+be+nappy

 

Simple text and historical photographs help little readers follow the extraordinary story of Ruby Bridges, the first African-American child to integrate a New Orleans school. In the face of racism and segregation, Ruby’s triumphant spirit endures, teaching brown girls they can overcome any obstacle.

http://www.amazon.com/Ruby-Bridges-Goes-School-Scholastic/dp/0545108551/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1373323614&sr=1-1&keywords=%27Ruby+Bridges+Goes+to+School%3A+My+True+Story%27+by+Ruby+Bridges

 

Loosely based off the life of choreographer Debbie Allen, a young girl overcomes big feet and long legs to achieve her dream of becoming a dancer. Sassy, the main character, gets teased by her dance mates and even her brother because she’s the odd girl out. Budding ballerinas will be inspired by her ability to persevere despite the ridicule and her own self-doubt.

 

http://www.amazon.com/Dancing-Wings-Debbie-Allen/dp/0142501417/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1373323749&sr=1-1&keywords=%27Dancing+in+the+Wings+by+Debbie+Allen

 

In this award-winning tale, Deza Malone, 12, navigates the Great Depression while searching for a father who has left the family to look for work. Deza is smart and spunky and young readers will learn their own incredible strength through the Mighty Miss Malone

http://www.amazon.com/Mighty-Miss-Malone-Christopher-Curtis/dp/0440422140/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1373323958&sr=1-1&keywords=%27The+Mighty+Miss+Malone%27+by+Christopher+Paul+Curtis

Inspired by the early life of Zora Neale Hurston, this book tells the story of a young girl detective who must solve a murder mystery. Not only is this story engaging for older girls with its twists and turns, it introduces them to one of the most prolific and well-known writers of the Harlem Renaissance

http://www.amazon.com/Zora-Me%C2%A0%C2%A0-ZORA-ME-Hardcover/dp/B008MDUEH6/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1373324043&sr=1-3&keywords=%27Zora+and+Me%27+by+Victoria+Bond+and+T.R.+Simon

In the summer of 1968, three sisters, Delphine and her younger sisters, Vonetta and Fern, travel to Oakland, CA to find their mother who abandoned them. Their mother, Cecile, often sends them to the community center where the girls learn about race and revolution. In this powerful novel, the girls struggle to ultimately earn the love of their estranged mother. Delphine, the young heroine, and her rock solid resilience will surely activate any young “actionista.”
http://www.amazon.com/One-Crazy-Summer-Rita-Williams-Garcia/dp/B0080R4AAG/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1373324139&sr=1-3&keywords=%27One+Crazy+Summer%27+by+Rita+Williams-Garcia

Keisha Cane and Her Very Sweet Tooth is a delightful new book for young readers, featuring the memorable and mischievous, Keisha Cane.  Keisha’s infamous sweet tooth strikes in the middle of the night and she breaks a cookie jar, sparking a laughable chain of events. Little readers will be able to predict Keisha’s next mishap and will also learn a valuable lesson about making (and fixing) mistakes.
Ashley Foxx is an author, educator and artist. Her first book, Keisha Cane and Her Sweet Tooth is available for little readers. Find her at www.foxxology.com or @foxxology on Twitter.
http://www.foxxology.com/#!books/cnec

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Naturally Cute!

Love how cute this is:) let your little girl know she is cute just the way she is fro and all:))

Happy 4th of July

Happy 4th Of July!! photo courtesy of Divian Conner - Visual Artist