Why I Am Proud To Be Afro-Latina

July 31, 2018 · Leave a Comment

Often as a child, I struggled with trying to figure out exactly where the hell did I fit in with everyone. According to society, I was always pressured to pick a side; I either wasn’t “Black Enough” or “Latina Enough.” I recall as a child coming home crying to my mom because the little Spanish girls in my dance class didn’t believe I was Puerto Rican. The girls were always mean and teased me because I didn’t have the same hair or speak Spanish. I was heartbroken as a kid dealing with the teasing, why did I have to prove to people what I am. Today as a proud Afro-Latina woman I am honored to identify with two incredible sides. It took time and growth, but I learned it’s okay to embrace both my Black side and the Latin side.

So I know you’re probably reading this like what is this Afro-Latin/a word I hear her using. Afro-Latin Americans or Black Latin Americans refers to Latin American people of significant African ancestry. Now that’s Wikipedia definition but depending who you ask the answer can vary. Afro-Latin in my eyes is someone like me! A person who’s not only Black but also mixed with Puerto Rican.

Celebrating Two Sides
As an Afro-Latina I have the privilege of having two different backgrounds come together. I have the best of both worlds mixing two cultures together. Family gatherings are always full of lots of love and food because you have everything from Arroz con Gandules, Fried Chicken, Pernil, and Mac&Cheese. It’s like an assortment of flavors all under one roof( trust me once you mix Mac&Cheese with Pernil you’ll never turn back lol). It’s also cool because I know so much about music; I grew up listening to salsa and bachata but also embracing artist like Patti Labelle, Whitney Houston, and Diana Ross.

Spanish
People assume that because you are an Afro Latina you should speak Spanish. So many times in my life folks have asked “How are you Spanish ,if you don’t speak Spanish?”. Easy because my house was Americanized my father is Black and we spoke English. Hence, on my mother’s side, the majority of my family speaks Spanish and English also known as Spanglish. Therefore I grew up speaking English, Of course, my mom’s mother talked to me in her native Spanish language, and I took a few classes, but I’m still not 100% fluent. At the end of the day, I’m not less Latina because I can’t speak fluently I just happen to be raised more Americanized than most fully Latin families.

Hair and Skin
Being Afro-Latina our hair texture and complexion is very unique because it can vary from person to person. Some people have curly thick hair while others have kinky straight hair. I use to wish my hair was more like my mom’s which is very fine and curly. Now I love and embrace the thickness and fullness of my Afro-Latina hair due to the endless possibilities when it comes to styling. My skin color is another unique trait being Afro-Latina . Afro Latins come in a wide range of skin tones from Chocolate, Caramel, White Chocolate, and Mocha. I know I’m describing it like food, but that’s the sweetest thing about us. No matter our skin or hair texture we are all beautiful in our own way.

Heritage
With having African and Latin roots, I descend from two powerful groups of people. I made it my duty to understand the trials and tribulations my ancestors faced and issues people of today battle. It makes me so overjoyed to identify with being an Afro-Latina. It feels incredible to stand next to my brothers and sisters in the fight for Black Lives Matter and come together to raise money for the influential citizens of Puerto Rico during such a tragic time. Both sides of my heritage are not only fighters but are strong trailblazing people who have all overcome so much adversity to be where they are today.

No matter how many times people deny me of being Latina because I can’t speak Spanish fluently. Or I’m not black enough to fight for black rights, I always remember I’m black and beautiful and just as Latina as anyone. I only have one little difference I am Afro-Latina, and that’s what makes me unique.

Thanks For stopping by

Vana

The Big Fig Mattress:Bedroom Makeover

July 17, 2018 · Leave a Comment

Hey everyone, Hope all is well in the world. I recently did my room over, and wanted to let you all know about my new bed from The Big Fig that’s AMAZING!

I moved into a new place and wanted my bedroom to be something new and fresh. This meant getting rid of my old bed and getting a new bedroom set and room layout. The mattress I had been sleeping on was TERRIBLE, and I refused to take it with me to my new home. When Big Fig reached out to me on doing a review it came in perfect time. I have since been sleeping on my brand new Big Fig mattress which has been some of the best sleep EVER! I wanted to make sure if I told y’all about it, I had gotten as much rest possible on it to give a fair accurate review.

Before I had my Big Fig mattress, I honestly can’t even tell you where my old mattress was from or the brand. All I can recall was the springs were super loud and it was only like 3 years old. I loved how soft my old mattress felt, but my back didn’t love the way that mattress felt. The last 4 months of me sleeping on my old mattress my back was aching every morning that I woke up. When I received the Big Fig mattress I was a little skeptical seeing that it’s a firmer higher mattress. The mattress was delivered to me by Big Figs white glove service where they put together your entire bed for you. Big Fig is an ultra-durable mattress designed for sleepers on the heavier side. The mattress is made for larger figures who may have had issues in the past with a mattress sagging, softening, loss of support or comfort over time.

The Big Fig company boasts that their bed, box spring, and railings can hold up to 5000 pounds. Now, I haven’t put that to the test HAHA! but I’m sure it stands true. I have the Queen size Mattress and did some jumping on it just to test it out. I will say it’s very sturdy and durable just like they advertise. I love that it comes with a 20-year warranty which shows how much they believe in the product, that’s more than any average mattress company offers.

There’s honestly not a single bad thing I can say about my new bed. I do miss the softer mattress, but since switching to the firmer side of the mattress world I think they won me over. The Big fig mattress really has given me some great sleep and really supports my back and body frame. We as humans spend a good amount of time sleeping, so why not be comfy doing it. My dog Henny even loves my new bed. I sometimes think he likes it more than me because I always catch him sleeping on it.

So if you’re in the market for a new bed that supports a plus size frame or just a taller built. I say check out the Big Fig it’s so worth the investment. Also If you order make sure to use my code VANABLACK at checkout for $100 off your purchase. Everyone deserves to have a nice comfy sleep and the Big Fig makes sure of that.

As Owl ways thanks for reading

Vana

Disclaimer: I was not paid to review, but received a complimentary mattress, from Big Fig.

How To Live A More Eco Friendly Life

April 30, 2018 · 1 Comment

Happy Monday everyone!!!! April is coming to an end and what better way to celebrate Earth month than living a more Eco friendly life. This year I been focused on finding sustainable alternatives to be more Eco friendly in different aspects of my life. I’ve seriously have learned so much since deciding to take a leap to a more Eco conscious lifestyle; One thing I will say is being more eco-conscious is not a change that happens overnight, It is a journey where you will always learn something new.

I know most are probably like how does one even become more Eco friendly? Well, that’s why I’m here to help today. I want to give 5 tips to live a more Eco friendly life .

Use Paper Less And Recycle More. The world we live in today is reliant on technology. It is easy to go a day without using a notebook or even paper. The less paper you use, the less paper needs to be produced and we get to have more trees that fill our forests.

Use Canvas Bags Instead Of Plastic. Most stores offer canvas bag alternatives to the generic plastic and paper bags. Although a canvas bag might cost a a little more, they actually are much more useful than you might think. A canvas bag canvas bag can also be used to store lunch or pack items when moving – making it useful in more ways than one.

Start Buying Second Hand. Fast fashion is one of the most polluting industries in the world with Americans throwing out 13 million textiles a year. Companies like thredUP offer amazing second hand clothes. Shopping second-hand is a great way to reuse and reduce textile waste that otherwise ends up in landfill. The shirt I’m wearing in this post is made from 100% recycled material how amazing is that!!!

Bring your own Coffee Cup. you know how you stop for that coffee every morning. Instead of taking the usual plastic or paper cup. Bring in your own for them to use. That means less paper and plastic being wasted in our trash bin. Some shops like even give a discount for simply helping mama Earth by using your own cup.

Educate Others: Educate others about the importance of living an Ecofriendly life. The more people who share awareness of the importance of the environment, the more we can do together to conserve it.

Hope this little guide helped you all in becoming more eco friendly. With these little improvements you’ll be well on your way to a more sustainable future! Make sure to check out thredUPs project RE:Made where they commissioned 12 artists to create artworks in response to the statement “Climate Change is Not Real”. thredUP screen-printed the works onto secondhand white tees from there inventory and are selling them. All net proceeds benefit carbon offset non-profit Cool Effect. Check out all the cool things they are doing over at thredUP for this campaign. As Owls ways thanks for stopping by!!!!

Love

Stavana

4 ways to practice self-love on Valentine’s Day

February 14, 2018 · 1 Comment

Valentine’s Day is here, which means you’ll see happy couples exchanging gifts for there significant other, or those last minute folks trying to set up a last-minute date so there not alone on this day of love.

People tend to feel resentment towards spending this day alone, but what many people forget is that your relationship with yourself is way more important than any other in life, which is why Valentine’s is the best day to prioritize your own needs and show yourself some compassion and love. Learning to be comfortable alone isn’t easy, but once you’ve mastered the skill of loving yourself, getting away from life’s demands can be pretty relaxing and blissful. Self-care is really important for emotional health and living a life. Studies have show that it can help you manage the symptoms of anxiety, depression and more.

So sit back relax and block out the world and follow these self-care rules to have your best Valentine’s Day yet.

1. Step away from social media

One of the worst things about Valentine’s Day – whether you’re single or in a relationship – is the endless materialistic displays of affection on social media. The whole day seems like a big competition; if you’re single, you feel unloved and down, and if you’re in a relationship, you start to compare your relationship to everybody else’s. Instead of spending the evening scrolling, shut down the app for the day. Your brain will thank you

2.Cook Yourself a Meal

Cooking for others is one of the biggest ways many show how much they care and appreciate others. But, what about doing it for ourselves? Sometimes we get so busy in life we are quick to get take out or skip the meal in general. Not today, Not on V-Day. Today, you’re going to cook yourself a meal of love. Grab a glass of wine (or cup of h20) and get creative in the kitchen. Make some yummy lobster mac and cheese or indulge in that steak, whatever it may be enjoy making it for you.

3. Treat Yourself

There are so many little things we neglect just because we don’t think we deserve them. Do you enjoy flowers? Go pick up some colorful buds just for you! Have you been eyeing a bag at store? Go buy that bag girl! Have you been wanting a massage but no time? Book it Hunny. The time is now

4.Write A Love Note

Focusing on our flaws is a bad habit we are all guilty of. ( I do it a lot) instead of nitpicking, write down a letter to yourself outlining all the good things you see in yourself. The positive thoughts will help raise your confidence. Look in the mirror, and see what it is you love about yourself and embrace it.

Ideally, we should be practicing these rituals all year long, but Valentine’s month is always a good place to start! Hope you all have a great day full of love and happiness.

Black Boston Creatives & Businesses Killing The Game.

February 8, 2018 · Leave a Comment

Hey, Y’all so I’m super late but HAPPY 2018…..I know I have been super MIA for while I’ll get into why another time. In other news its FEBRUARY which means it’s Black History Month. So today on the blog I wanted to highlight black creatives and businesses who are killing the game.

Seeing that I was born and raised in Boston I wanted to focus on the greatness that comes out of my own hometown. So in no particular order here’s my list of creatives and business who out lighting up the city. Also can I just say this was very hard. I had like 50 names, so I may just make another list. Why should we hide all the talent this city possesses.

Bel Monique– Digital Magazine

BÈL is the only digital magazine where Everyday black women are the celebrities! The founder and CEO Berlhey Narcisse has helped women reconnect with both their internal and external beauty. The magazine has over 800 monthly website visitors and over 1,000 email subscribers, BÈL gives women a way to connect with one another on beauty, fashion, business, and lifestyle.

Dee The Artist and Damn Rotten Kid– Graphic Designer/Artist

If your ever on the internet I’m sure you have come across this sister duos art work. Both girls make artistic comics and visual art that relates to black men and women in todays society. Both women are truly talented when it comes to putting feelings and emotions into the pictures they portray for all to see. I love that all the art is relatable and always has a message or meaning behind it.

Kitchen Table Talk-Podcast

Kitchen Table talk is a podcast that airs Saturdays @ 5 pm live on Facebook and Youtube featuring Ms.Bea, Comedian Chris Footman, and Chef It’s All Gravy Baby. This dynamic trio comes together to discuss a variety of topic with no limitations. While topics are being discussed Ms. Bea’s Husband (Chef It’s All Gravy) can be seen and heard in the background cooking up a meal each show. What’s better than chatting about different topics all while learning how to make a tasty meal.

Omar Parkman– Model/ Influencer

Omar Parkman is an influencer/model who has really made a name for himself within the last year. As we all know beards are pretty trendy and Omar makes no mistakes rocking his beard so well. Omar’s stylish fashion senses and modeling photos have featured him in such publications such as Essence Magazine and Fashionbomb daily. At the rate, Omar is going he for sure will be in a Gucci ad in the near Future.

Genevieve Bien-Aime– Blogger/Writer/Radio Personality

Genevieve is the definition of a true Boss lady. She’s a radio personality on Boston Come through that airs Weds @ 9 pm on Boston Free Radio. A blogger who documents her life and travels On her own personal blog. And she’s also a contributing writer for BÈL magazine. Genevieve posses true major Black Girl Magic.

Anita Marshall– Model

Anita Marshall is a 5’11” beauty who is a top international plus model. Anita has worked for many brands such as Forever 21, Target, Elloquii, NY&CO, Asos, and Nike just to name a few. She has been featured in PAPER magazine and on the cover of PLUS Model Magazine multiple times. Anita continues to break barriers her mark on this industry proving that curves are taking over.

Alex Joachim– Creative Director

Alex Joachim is a photographer, videographer, graphic illustrator, designer and more. He’s a one-man show who’s photography and artistic skills are unlike no other. His artistic mindset and abilities bring anything he touches to life. Alex also has been the creative mastermind behind a few start-up companies marketing ideas. Some of his photography has also been featured on Buzzfeed, Plusmodel Mag, It’s Lit Boston and many more. I can see him being the Next Hype Williams of the new

Envieux-Fashion Designer

Envieux is a ready-to-wear custom clothing line for women of all sizes. The owner Kerley Bernard really brings fashion to another level with her elegant one of kind pieces. Envieux has displayed her pieces on many runways and really pushes the envelope in making beautiful garments for women to feel classy and confident.

Bred Gourmet -Restaurant

Is a burger bar right in the heart of lower mills. Bred serves gourmet-style burgers, smoothies, salads and more. The choices at Bred are great for health conscious individuals since all meat is grass fed, and they also offer vegetarian options as well.

Zaz Resturant– Restaurant

is a Contemporary restaurant ran by owner Chef Olrie Roberts where he incorporates a variety of culture-based flavors such as Caribbean, Asian, Italian and Spanish. With choices like Lobster mac and cheese, Thai fried rice, creole wraps and coconut dream smoothies there is something for all taste buds to enjoy under one roof.

Slades Bar and Grill– Restaurant

Slades Bar & Grill serves soul food to patrons and hosts a number of events, such as Comedy shows on Wednesdays and Old school throwback Thursday. Slades is well known for the Fried Chicken and friendly loving staff that makes you feel like family while visiting.

Hair Me Out-Hair Salon

Hair Me Out is a hair salon owned by Aisha Lambert that specializes in natural hair care, especially Locs! The salon takes pride in being able to not only treat all hair types but give clients the knowledge to do so as well! Services include roll and sets, lineups, Braids, loc styles and an in-house Massage therapist.

Nastahja’s Hair Bar-Hair Salon

Nastahjas Hair Bar is another great hair salon ran and owned but Nastahja Cazeau where they specialize in sew ins, feed in method braids, permanent lock extensions and other hair care needs. The Hair Bar was voted best hair salon of 2017. The Hair Bar even offers there own custom line of virgin premium hair and wig making services.

Pink Shoe Lounge– Clothing and Apparel

Pink Shoe Lounge is a one-stop shop for women of all sizes. Pink Shoe Lounge puts their customers needs first by targeting the fashionista who is a trendsetter and loves to be unique. Pink Show Lounge sells shoes and apparel for women ranging from a size small to 3x. You can find something for any women in your life young and old.

Black Market-Pop Up Shop

Black Market is a Black-Owned, cooperative-style retail business that operates within a Pan-African pop-up paradigm. Currently operating two-weekend pop-ups per month, Black Market transforms its Retail Space into a bustling marketplace where dozens of local artists, vendors and entrepreneurs showcase and sell products to patrons who visit.

Honorable Mentions

Bethany Richards-Model

Magnificent Flowers & Design – Event planner

Glamou rUp Cosmetics -Cosmetic Line

Not Your Momma’s Jars- Homemade Desserts

Event Envy– Event planner

Tenders- Mobile Bartending Service

Darryl’s Corner Bar –Restaurant

The Fit Pit– Personal Training and Gym

Make sure to follow, visit and support everyone above. I hope this encourages you all to check out your local black businesses and support our creative brothers and sisters. Until next time Owl see ya Later.