I know that there are girls out there that are not totally confident in themselves and/or have self-esteem issues. In my opinion, in today’s world, it is way harder for a girl to actually be more confident and have a healthy self-esteem because of the image of beauty that some places in the media and in society in general give off. Some girls are more concerned about how to get the curves of a video girl or the shape of a super model instead of achieving their own happiness. They strive to be like those they look up to in the industry. But, what they fail to realize is that those very people that they look up to also have encountered confidence and self-esteem issues.

In a book titled Exactly As I Am by Shaun Robinson, “celebrated women share candid advice with today’s girls on what it takes to believe in yourself.” This book features advice, quotes, and more from many looked up to women including Oprah Winfrey, Vanessa Williams, India Arie, Queen Latifah, Alicia Keys, Jennifer Hudson, Janet Jackson, Gabrielle Union, and lots more.

Take a look at some of the words of these women taken from the book.

INDIA.ARIE ON SELF-ACCEPTANCE

I am on this journey to learn where I fit in this world, and to define myself and to love myself. Just like a lot of people reading this book, I flip through any magazine and realize very clearly that there are not many people in the music industry who look the way I do… my nose and teeth and hair — all of it. I’m not the popular look and I am constantly reminded of that. But rather than looking at that and saying I have no place, I make my own place. I hold a place. I hold a space in the music industry that is to speak for the girl who feels like an outcast, the person who is unapologetically different. The woman who says, ‘My money maker is not my body, it’s my mind‘… the everyday woman.

Do you like Kortney Nash’s crinkly hair? Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to achieve this look for yourself, and it’s really easy!

STEP 1:
Shampoo and Condition the hair.

STEP 2:
Put hair in two strand twists (see “The Twists” on the banner for example) using either Miss Jessie’s Curly Meringue (8 oz $22.00) or Curls Milkshake (8 oz $18.00). Both will give pretty much the same results, so use whichever one you prefer. The products are a bit pricey, but they’re worth it!

STEP 3:
Let twists sit in hair for a day or two; the longer, the better.

STEP 4:
Untwist the hair and you will have Kortney’s crinkly look!

This style is especially cute on little girls. With the crinkles you can style your hair as you’d like. Above you can see that Kortney’s hair is styled in one and in two ponytails. Have fun with it!

TIP: The smaller the twists are, the more crinkly the hair will come out.

Special Thanks to Kortney’s mom!

Going Green

Lately, you’ve probably heard talk about reducing your carbon footprint, going green and such. But what exactly does it mean to go green? Going green is living natural and healthy, being environmentally friendly, using less energy, and more. Going green is also doing your part in helping the earth so why not learn more?

What’s Food Got to do With it?

You may not realize it but food has a lot to do with it. Where you buy your food, how your food is produced, and even what you eat matters in one way or another. When looking for foods to buy, local organic products are usually better choices. These organic foods are produced in healthy ways that benefit both the planet and the person who decides to eat them. Buying local foods also reduce harm to the climate due to the transportation of foods that are not produced locally. Another thing to think about is that organic foods are grown without all the additional chemicals; this helps your body and the environment!

You Mean I Can Shop and Still Be “Green”?!

The answer to this question should please all that love to shop. YES you CAN shop and still be green! There are quite a few ways that you can have a great shopping experience and at the same time, do something good for the planet. You can start by not using plastic bags when shopping. Instead of using the bags given to you by the store, use a non-plastic shopping tote bag that you can use continuously. Another way to shop green is to choose products that are Eco friendly. Ladies and girls, when buying beauty & hair products, try to find those that have environmental benefits. That way while you’re shopping good, you can look and feel good too! For all the mommies, you all can find cleaning products that are better for the environment as well!

Can I Make My Home “Green” too?

Going green in the home is one of the best places to start reducing your carbon footprint. You can began with simple things like using less water, saving energy, and recycling. Because water is so important, it is necessary for people of all ages to learn to conserve and use it wisely. You’ve learned it in pre-school to “never let the water run” and you should continue to go by that rule! When washing dishes, use the sink instead of the dish washer. This saves water and energy. While energy is in the picture, it’s important to say that it should be used wisely as well. Remember to turn off the lights and other things when they aren’t needed; unplugging certain things like TVs and other electronics help too. This saves energy and the electric bill! Another important thing you can do around the home is recycle. It’s time to put those colored bins to use! Recycle things like plastic bottles, cartons, paper, and more.

Going green is a big issue, but with little acts we can make a difference one step at a time!

Did you know that popcorn (plain) is actually a rather healthy snack?! Well, yes it is! The white fluffy kernels, which are whole grains, are a great source of fiber as well as protein. Popcorn also contains B vitamins which is good too… not to mention that it’s low in calories ;) So, if you’ve ever been in search of a snack that tastes good and doesn’t cause you to worry about adding on a few extra pounds, try popping a bag! It takes only minutes of course! Popcorn is inexpensive and it’s worth it. It’s a healthy snack that both kids and adults can enjoy!

Our YBStar, Niles Fitch definitely has swagger! Niles is a cute kid with lots of style and he definitely knows how to show it off in his outfits. In this outfit, Niles is rocking a nice Ralph Lauren Polo vest, bow tie, and slacks; a simple, yet well put together ensemble! I’d say Niles’ appearance is very age appropriate and classy. The dressiness is not over done and I’m sure this type of an outfit would bring lots of compliments to such an adorable little boy!

Similar vests like the one Niles is wearing can be found at Macy’s in several different colors. The pants most likely are available at Macy’s as well. Next time you boys/guys are out looking for a nice casual outfit, think of Niles!