My Top 10 in 2010

Several years ago, maybe 15, before I met my gorgeous, loveable and handsome hubby I had a crush on a guy(who turned out to be a loser). Someone once told me that guys liked flowers, too. I decided to purchse a half dozen roses for my crush. At the time, I didn't have a car so I guess you'd have called me a female scrub(of TLC fame) LOL.

Anyhoo,

I walked to a neighborhood or 'hood' florist shop to purchase the roses. When I arrived, many of the flowers were wilted or dead. The owner wore a moo-moo/nightgown and house slippers. Her son was the clerk. The kid was all of 7 and didn't know how to ring a sale. Bad customer service all the way around.

I vowed that I would never patronize another black-owned "hood" business.

Again, that was several years ago. Years before I met real business owners. Business owners who value their customers. Those that give friendly service with a smile. Owners who teach their children proper business practices. Business owners that dress for success. Many of the very people who own businesses in 'the hood.'

Today as I celebrate the fourth Kwanzaa principle: Ujamaa-Cooperative Economics
To build and maintain our own stores, shops and other businesses and to profit from them together
I would like to highlight 10 small or homebased businesses(not all are black owned but all are worthy to be recognized)that exude professionalism and exemplary service. These businesses are those that I've visited online, via telephone or in person.

My top 10 in 2010 are.... Drum roll please:

1. The Bel-Air 10 Theatre
http://www.belair10theatre.com

2. Ladel's Book Store and Boutique
It has since closed but it was a great place for books and children's events

3. My Girly Party
http://www.mygirlyparty.com

4.City Talk Magazine
http://www.citytalkmagazine.com
Detroit's Urban Community Source

5. Dr. Yakini Etheridge of The Prissy Mommy Chronicles
http://www.prissymommy.com

6. Lynette Jones of Perfect Presence Event Planning and Consulting
http://www.theperfectpresence.com

7.Tim Miller of Miller Design Studio
http://www.millerdesignstudio.net

8.Afropuffs and Ponytails
http://www.afropuffsandponytails.com
Website Inspiring African American Girls

9. Detroit Impact Center
http://www.detroitimpactcenters.org
Servicing Metro Detroit's Children

10. Monica Marie Jones of The Literary Loft, LLC
http://www.monicamariejones.com
Inspiring and motivating the nation with weekly newsletters, captivating books and an informational radio show

Yes, there are sooooo many others that I could have named and I will feature more in 2011. For now, the remainder of 2010, check out these 10 businesses and you'll see why they are MY top 10.

What are some of the businesses that are the bees knees in your neck of the woods?

What's In a Name?

I know most bloggers are posting about holiday themes or possibly New Year resolutions but I like to go against the grain, sometimes. LOL. A few days ago my daughter was sick-very sick with a re-occuring high temperature. She had chills and a stuffy, and most times, runny nose. It got so bad that at -home remedies no longer worked so I took her to see a doctor. While at the doctor's office, a conversation began. A conversation that always begins when I share the origin of Zaria's name.

Zaria's name means Princess but honestly I didn't know that when I named her. There was a show several years ago that I loved called 'The Parenthood.' The daughter on that show was named Zaria. I fell in love with the name and vowed to myself that when I had a daughter I would name her Zaria. That's before I was married and my hubby had other ideas. Zaria was almost 'Jessica.' But I won that battle :)

After talking with the doctor, I started to think about other names that have unique stories behind them. Names that are spelled differently. Names that are unisex. Names that are only ONE LETTER LONG! That's right. I heard that someone named their child the letter B. I thought that was so different and even cool when I heard the story behind it. The mom let her other children name the sibling :)

When I was growing up, I had a neighbor named Demassius. He told me that it was from The Bible. My husband's name is Lary(spelled with one r). My oldest son's name is Kondace but his nickname is Marty(there is a real interesting story behind that. I will share in a future post. I promise). I have a nephew named Sincere. Don't ask! LOL.

So, I ask: Do you have a unique spelling for your child's name? Did you have a childhood friend with a quirky name or nickname? Is there an interesting story behind your name?

My Favorite Things

Hi Everybody! This is Zaria. I have been really sick for a few days but I have been reading my moms posts and everybody's comments. Christmas is coming up and I started to think about some of my favorite things. Not toys or clothes but places I like to go and people I like. It's kinda like when me and my mama watch Oprah. I made a list of 10 things because it is 2010. Tell me which ones you like:

1. China Town Buffet in Dearborn, MI is my favorite restaurant.

2. Panda Buffet in Westland is my 2nd favorite restaurant.

3. Hannah Montana is my favorite singer/actress.

4. Selena Gomez is another favorite singer/actress of mine.

5. Justin Bieber-well, what else can I say?!

6. Easy Bake Oven was my favorite Christmas present.

7. Jonas Brothers is my favorite singing group.

8. I love coloring book.

9. I like different colors.

10. I really loves cell phones. I really want a pink Blackberry cell phone by Verizon Wireless.

What are your favorite things?

Kids on Facebook? Do you agree or Disagree?

Princess Zaria has been ill for the last few days. Between blowing her nose, taking medicine, sleeping and feeling BLAH-she has been on FACEBOOK. Some of my friends and family don't feel like she should be on Facebook. I rather her be on Facebook, than FaceBook For Kids....those kids are so brutal. LOL. Anyhoo, I guess I understand where everyone is coming from but I definitely monitor her page.

Daily, I check out what is going out and what is coming in. If there is a 'friend' that is spewing vulgar or inappropriate material, I make her delete him/her. Recently, I made her delete her 20 year old brother. He was saying things that were too delicate for her princess ears. Zaria 'likes' generic pages like Disney, Skittles, and HIP Hop Harry. She 'friends' her classmates and family members. She listens to YouTube videos from Justin Bieber, Willow and Cymphonique. What's so wrong about that?

Honestly, I use Facebook to network and connect with friends and she does too. There has been so many well wishes coming through her FaceBook page(mostly from close friends and relatives). I don't see anything wrong with it if is frequently monitored by ME. I definitely would like feedback on this. Do you think youngsters should be allowed to have a FaceBook page? Why or Why Not?

Are Christmas Cards Obsolete?

I love this time of year. Christmas decorations, gifts, snow and Christmas Cards. Only, this year I haven't received many. Are sending Christmas Cards a thing of the past? How many cards did you send/receive this year? As a child, I remember my parents receiving dozens of cards. My mom used to hang them along the perimeter of the walls. But today so many people are getting away from this tradition. Technology has made it so convenient to send e-cards, FaceBook messages or Tweets. I may be an old soul but I love the look and feel of Christmas Cards.

What are some of your favorite Christmas cards designs: ones with Santa, the words: Season's Greetings, reindeer, snowflakes, etc?

10 Random Facts About Me

As 2010 is coming to an end, I thought I would share some random and interesting facts about myself. A lot of times when you visit blogs, you really don't get a true feel of who the blogger is so I would like to give you a glimpse of who Cheryl Lynn Pope, Mommy Blogger really is. This is the abbreviated version I shared with my faceBook friends. Here goes:

1. My favorite guilty pleasure is icecream. (I really like Sanders Butter Pecan. They have real pecan halves. yummy.)

2. My favorite movies are: My Best Friend's Wedding, Love Jones, and The Mirror Has Two Faces. (The first and 3rd really are tear jerkers for me)

3. I used to rap when I was a teen-ager. My name was Rappin C. Here's an excerpt: ' I'm rappin C and my bod is boomin'. Get with me and stop assumin.' All my raps, you say are dead, they're not dead they're from my head. What about you, who bite from Run , you should get fresh and get you some. Perpetratin rapper is written on your face. You rap so bad you are a disgrace. You don't even rhyme when you try to bust a rap. Maybe that's why you're full of crap. You wouldn't know a rhyme if I read it in your face. Step to me and i'll put you i your place. You think you're educated but you really not..... (I well I forgot the rest. Surprised that i remembered that much. LOL.)

4. I lived in the same house for 26 years. (Moved in 1996 after my mom passed.)

5. I've never been on a train.

6. I married a great guy I met in middle school. We lived around the block from each other.

7. I have 2 kids. A 20 year old and a 9 year old.

8. I interviewed Famous Amos and Adam Sandler when i worked in radio.

9. I dabble in publicity for authors and I'm really good. (I was able to get my latest client featured on FOX 2 and MSNBC just to name a few.)

10. God is the reason for all my successes. I really love HIM.

Did you know any of these things? Share some random facts with me.

Everyone Feels Blue Sometimes

It's so funny but everyone that knows me always sees me with a smile on my face or a cheery disposition. My former employer used to call me 'Little Miss Sunshine.' I've had co-workers ask "Why are you so happy?(when everything around was falling to pieces). I definitely choose my battles. I don't let every challenging situation get me down but I am, of course, only human. I do feel blue sometime.

I know this is the Thanksgiving holiday and it's the time for giving thanks and being grateful for everything I have(shelter, family, health,etc.) and I am thankful for those things and more. But again, I am only human and I sometimes reflect on my lack. I would love to live in a better home/better neighborhood, be able to pay my bills on time or before time, be healthier(could stand to lose a few pounds) and I would love it if my mom was still around to share my successes.

You know, I guess that is what this 'pity' blog is all about.

I MISS MY MAMA

Sometimes I am so envious of my friends and colleagues. Those who have had great successes recently were able to share them with their moms. If they launched a book;their mom was there. If they won an award; their mom was there. If they gave birth; their mom was there. If they were featured in the news; their mom was there.

See where I'm going with this? I've had some major successes happen to me recently and I would love to share them with my mom ----So sometimes I feel melancholy.

Just bare with me. I should be back to my old cheery self tomorrow. Just venting I guess.

Do you ever feel gloomy? What do you do to snap out of it?

Happy Birthday, Sweetheart

I am proud to announce that today is my husband's birthday. I normally don't include posts about my husband in the blog but this time I had to. We have celebrated about 12 birthdays together and each time feels like the first. I don't understand why some people don't celebrate their birthday(aside from religious beliefs). Birthdays are the anniversary of your birth. That should be cause for celebration.


My husband is and has been the greatest. He is an excellent dad, too. He supports my dreams and vision. He gives me brutally honest feedback when I need it. He supports his family, sometimes by working two jobs to get us what we need and want. I just wanted to celebrate him today by saying 'I appreciate you.'

The other night we were discussing some past gifts that I'd given him. My husband attended Suomi College and before we married he would also share about the fun he had at Suomi. "We did.... It was so much fun when..... I will never forget the time...." He loved his experience at Suomi but for some reason he didn't have any college memorabilia. So I surprised him. I would ask him things like where was Suomi located? Was that in upper Michgan(doing my investigative research). I called Suomi in Hancock MI and ordered him a Suomi T-Shirt. He loved it!

He also likes bowling and one year I got him a bowling ball. He called all his friends that night. The next year, a pool stick. Oh boy was he happy. This year I'm giving him the gift of appreciation(sounds cheap doesn't it?)

It's not if you think of it. So often we take our spouses for granted. We feel comfort in the fact that they are supposed to do this or that. And they are but we should feel grateful and happy because some spouses don't do the same. So this year, I will show my gratitude and appreciation.

Happy Birthday to all those who are celebrating birthdays today and in the month of November. How do you celebrate?

Teach Your Kids To 'Do The Amiya'

This post is prompted by an 11 -year old Detroit business owner named Amiya Alexander. While taking dance lessons, she observed that some of her friends were unable to. Their parents couldn't afford the classes and/or were unable to get to the classes. After bringing this to her mother's attention, she drafted a design of a vehicle and a plan that would allow her friends and others to enjoy convenient, affordable lessons. Amiyah had a dream and a goal. (They are different, you know). Amiya's story below:







I am encouraging all parents to set goals for themselves so their children can witness goal-setting first hand. Take this process a step further and have a dream/goal-setting session with your child(ren). On the way to school this morning, I shared with Princess Zaria that I was going to begin taking classes again in the winter to pursue my goal of higher education. We had a long talk about college(or as long as the ride to school was). She asked why I wanted to go back to college, what classes I needed to take and why I hadn't finished yet? This was the beginning of the dialogue for a teachable moment. After the conversation, I looked to my right and noticed that Zaria was in deep reflection. LOL. Imagine that!

So I asked, "Zaria, what are you thinking about?"

Zaria: Can you take two main classes in college?

Me: Yes, that is called a double major or a dual major.

Zaria: What about three?

Me: I had a friend who thought about a triple major.

Zaria: That's what I'm going to do. I'm going to major in Art, Drama and Dance.

Me: That's called a triple threat, Zaria, and I'm going to help you make that happen.

What are you imparting in your child's life? Are you helping them to set goals and realize their dreams?

No TV for a Month?

Sounds like a punishment, right? But it isn't. Several months ago, the government issued digital boxes to those who didn't own digital tv's. We were one of those families. A few weeks ago, the box expired, broke, went off line---basically The Pope Family had no access to a television. At first it was hard. We watched DVD's all weekend(the box went out on a Friday evening). Princess Zaria and I watched Dreamgirls until she was able to act out all the parts. I can't hear 'Step into the Bad Side' without rolling my eyes. LOL.

We exhausted all of our dvd's in a little less than a week. Then, we started borrowing movies. We have a box full of VHS movies but who has the antique equipment to play the movies???? After watching movies, we began playing board games. We played Scrabble, Taboo, Uno, Sorry even DVD Disney Bingo. Things started getting easier. We began talking more. How was your day today led to full fledge family discussions. We talked about school, work, friends, favorite foods, etc. Sometimes, I don't miss the tv as much.

When I was in high school, I had a teacher (Mr. Glass) who proudly claimed that he didn't own a tv. I think he called it the 'boob tube' or something weird like that. He said that he used the time to read or travel. I was skeptical back then and thought "How could anyone not own a tv-on purpose?" Well, as I'm older I see. Now, I'm not saying we won't get another box or purchase a digital tv but it has been an eye-opening experience.

The next time you hear a media campaign urging viewers to turn off the tv for a day, try it. Try it for a week or even a month. It will, at the least, bring your family closer.

Do you think you could go with television for a week?

What's For Breakfast?

I guess, maybe, I'm hungry. While researching other blogs my stomach started growling. It actually made me think about my childhood. When I was younger, my mom used to cook us a hot breakfast complete with pancakes, sausage, eggs, grits, toast and juice. To be truthful, I really don't like breakfast food but I could go for my childhood breakfast right now.

Then I thought: Zaria does not have those many memories of a hot breakfast. Everything is rushed. We're hurrying for school so she'll grab a pop-tart. Most times she will just have a bowl of cereal and juice. Sometimes on those rare occasions when I feel like it, I will cook grilled cheese and sausage. Man, the more i write about this the more I feel like a heel. I should start getting up an hour early and prepare a good nutritious hot breakfast like my mom did.

But wait, my mom was a stay-at-home mom. She didn't work(until we were older) She didn't own a business. She didn't manage a nonprofit. She didn't plan regular children events. She didn't attend networking functions. She didn't drive. She didn't chaffeur us to after-school and Saturday events.

She had time to make a hot breakfast.

What's your excuse for not cooking breakfast? LOL

She Loves Books But Justin Bieber is her Favorite

About a month ago, Zaria brought home one of those Scholastic Book Forms. You remember those? It's the one that has about 50+ book descriptions with cover pics. Well, Zaria picked her 4 book choices right away....a month ago. Everyday since then she's been reminding me that I have to give her $12.00 for the books. "OK Zaria. I'll give it to you when it's due."

Today it was due. Last night she says that I need to give her the book money. Well, the thing is I had some unexpected things come up so we had to limit the book purchase from 4 to 1. She didn't like that at all. "Ok. But we're having a book sale at my school this week, too. How many books can I get there?

"Look, I say. Either you are going to order the books from this form or buy one at the book sale at school, not both.(In my sternest mommy voice, if you can believe that. LOL). She decided to order the book.

Finaly, I say "What book did you decide on?" Thinking maybe she would have selected the book on magic tricks(she loves to watch magic shows) No. Maybe the book on The Purple Princess, after all she is Princess Zaria. No, not that one either. "Well, I guess you want that scary book since Halloween was last week." No, not that one either.

Out of all the books in that catalog, Zaria decided on " The Justin Bieber Quiz Book." Everything You Ever Want To Know About Justin Bieber

Go Figure. LOL

My Halloween

Hi everyone,
It's me, Zaria.
Halloweeen was October 31, 2010. How was your Halloween? Mine was fun. I had a lot of candy but I did not eat it when I first got it. I didn't know if it was bad or good. I'm smart. I went trick -or-treating with my cousins. I was Dorothy (From The Wizard of Oz/ The Wiz). When my auntie took me home I was very sleepy. My feet were hurting from me running and walking. I fell right to sleep. What did you do for Halloween?

Where is the Music For Children?

A few months ago, I was talking with a friend about music for our kids. If you tune in anytime to any music station on any given day you hear explicit lyrics and racy undertones. What do our kids have to listen to? There, of course, is KidBop but it is just kids singing those racy songs with a few words taken out. It's not the same. I have a 9 year old daughter who loves music. What option does she have? There is Radio Disney. They play songs by artists such as Miley Cyrus, Hannah Montana, The Jonas Brothers.....but as they have gotten older some of their lyrics have evolved. What's a parent to do?



In walks Cyphonique aka Lil' Miss Swagger. For those of you who don't know, she is Master P's daughter and Romeo's sister. She is doing it real big. She has clean lyrics and she is hitting the music industry by storm.





Now, Willow Smith is doing her thang with "Whip My Hair." This has become the national anthem for young girls all over the world. I don't feel weird letting my daughter listen to these little girls.



What do you let your children listen to?

She Will Remember This Forever

One of my side jobs is that of a publicist. I usually work with authors so I am a self-proclaimed literary publicist(in my spare time). I do, however, work with local small businesses and nonprofits, as well. Recently, I had the opportunity to assist a Detroit area Professional Face Painter (http://www.sandysland.com) with media exposure.

The angle was for a Halloween segment. The facepainter described what paints are good for children skin, etc. Well, Princess Zaria was the live model! At first, she was nervous. i mean, a nine year old on broadcast television(http://www.clickondetroit.com/) can be a little unnerving. But, she handled it like a pro. She was even able to put the facepainter at ease.....she was extremely nervous:)

As I spoke with Zaria later that evening about the experience, she told me "I will remember this forever.This was the best time of my life." Wow! Imagine as a mom or dad---hearing that.

What memories do you recall as a child? What experiences have you shared with your child that will last for a lifetime? If you are a child, what memories do you cherish?

I Wear So Many Hats That Sometimes My Head Hurts

I love being a wife, mother, author, student, writer, literary publicist, speaker, mommy blogger, non-profit executive, business owner, LSCO member and event coordinator but sometimes I get overwhelmed. There are just so many hours in a day! Sometimes I feel like I take on too many projects but, again, I love what I do. I think there must be a balance, though.



Everyday I must be a wife and mother. There is no getting around that. But I think I can chhose how I allocate my time with other "jobs." Maybe I can write on Mondays and Wednesdays. I could promote my clients on Fridays. I could perform the administrative duties of the business and nonprofit on Saturdays and Sundays(no, wait-that's my family time). OK. Maybe weekend nights I could do that. I could do my homework in the car while waiting for Zaria to get out of school. The LSCO meetings are planned so I don't have to worry about that. Unless Zaria has a Yoga lesson on that Tuesday.

When do I fit in my grocery shopping, laundry, cleaning the house...

OK. Let me start over. Wife and mother everyday. Author on Tuesday. Event Coordinator on Thursday...

Now, I need to add Time Manager to my list of duties but I don't know when I would find the time.

Ouch. My head hurts!

It's So Hard Getting Ready In The Morning

I make a promise to myself every school year that I am going to start doing better with the organization of my time. I do ok for the first 6 weeks and then things start to fall off. I promise that i will wake up an hour and a half earlier to prepare myself for the day, make a hot breakfast, do Zaria's hair, make sure her clothes are ironed and get her to school on time. It doesn't happen that way.

It seems I wake up 20 to 30 minutes before we have to leave. We're rushing to get in a bowl of cold cereal. Hair is all over the place(both of ours, LOL).Clothes are super wrinkled. Zaria can't find her shoes. "Mommy, where is my bookbag?" AAAARRG! I want to scream!!

Last week, I braided Zaria's hair the night before(thinking I was doing something), put a silk scarf on to keep everything in place and wouldn't you know it.....The next morning(Zaria is a wild sleeper). I couldn't find half of her barrettes. Somehow they came out while she slept. We're looking under the pillow, behind the bed, under the doll's arm----They were on the floor behind the rug!

I can't win for losing!

This week I promised that I would be more organized. I will go to bed early, lay out crisply ironed clothes the night before, do Zaria's hair(minus the barrettes until the morning), get up an hour earlier and fix a hot breakfast before getting her to school on time.

We've only been late twice......and today is Tuesday! HELP!

Reminiscing While Preparing For Back-To-School

Wow! It's that time of year again. This semester Princess Zaria will be entering 4th grade. I met her teacher, Ms. Ivy, last week to discuss the curriculum. The 4th graders will be doing some real challenging work this semester, especially in math. Getting ready for this season of education actually takes me back to a time before Princess Zaria. Rewind 16 years ago, my oldest son was preparing to enter preschool.

I was so excited for him. At that time, he was the only child. I knew school would be a great outlet for him. I taught him the basics at home but I wanted him to gain social skills with other children. Back then, schools tested children before they entered preschool. If they failed the test, they were admitted. If they passed, they were placed on a waiting list.

My son passed the test!

He was asked his first and last name- passed.
He was asked primary colors-passed.
He was asked to count to 10- He counted to 20. Then he counted to 10 in Spanish!!!!

Well, let's just say he didn't learn to socialize with other kids that year:(
I always wondered why some parents encouraged their kids to dumb down for preschool.

Well, he's 20 now and music production is his Spanish!

I'm so proud of my children. What are your back to school memories?

Princess Zaria's first Fashion Show

This Saturday, The Real Princess Zaria will model 2 outfits at The Annual Chrysler Elementary School Fashion and Talent Show. The first piece is a halter-style blue and white spring dress. She will wear white wedge sandals with pretty(we haven't decided yet) polish. The 2nd outfit is a cranberry floor-length strapless gown. She will accessorize the gown with creme and cranberry trimmed bobbi socks and a cranberry necklace. We are still deciding if she will wear a tiara. I think it would be a good idea but I will let Zaria decide.

Zaria has been practicing her turns and waves at home----everyday. If you have a chance to stop by Chrysler on June 5, please buy a ticket for only $6 to see Princess Zaria and her classmates show off their talents and outfits. By the way, this is a pancake breakfast fundraiser so bring your appetites:)

Girly Day

I was never a girly-girl when I was growing up. I played with dolls and had a ballerina musical jewelry box but that was the extent of it. My daughter Zaria, on the other hand is the complete opposite. She can spend hours in the mirror combing her hair, she loves wearing dresses, American Next Top Model is one of her favorite shows!

Princess Zaria has a make-up case that would put most make-up artists to shame. Tonight is Girly Day. We will be doing our nails and toes. Or should I say Zaria will be leading this. She has the nail separator(I think that's what it is called.) She has the nail polish, puff balls and nail remover. We probably will be doing makeovers tonight, too. I do love her glitter gloss:)

To top it off, we'll probably be doing this all while watching 'The Devil Wears Prada.' This is a movie about the fashion industry and how it can change a person. I actually liked it.

A bit of advice to all those future moms out there: If you were not a girly-girl growing up you just might have one so get your make-up cases ready!

Celebrating Dads in June

Royalty Industries and The Real Princess Zaria and Mommy Blog introduce the ' I Love My Dad' Contest. Please send in an essay of 250 or more of why your dad is special just in time for Father's day. Share fond memories, favorite spots, pic, etc. The winning entry will receive gift card from Chili's or Applebees, a certificate of appreciation and a home depot gift certificate. This contest is open to residents of the United States. The winner will be announced June 1.

What I Want For My Birthday

I'm sorry I have not written a blog in a long time. This is Zaria. I have had a lot of homework especially last month for Black History Month. I'm also practicing for the spelling bee. I'll write about that next time.

My birthday is coming up in 3 months. My parents asked me what I wanted. I want a chocolate cake with caramel icing and chocolate icecream. I love chocolate. For a present, I want a DSI so I can connect it to the computer and internet.

My mom says they are going to take me to Nick Hotel in Florida. It is owned by Nickolodean studio. I will have my own room next to my parents. I might invite my cousins and best friend. I'm gonna have my 9th birthday party there. It's gonna be fun.

What are you doing for your birthday?

Kroger Gift Card

This is our first giveaway on The Real Princess and Mommy Blog. Tell us what your favorite childhood book is/was. Princess Zaria will select the winner. The winning entry will be based on humor/drama, content, illustrations, and storyline so it's open to just about any type. The winner will receive a $10.00 Kroger Card. Ten dollars is not very much but it can help with staples such as milk, bread or eggs. Good Luck!

Upcoming Contests

Royalty Industries and The Princess Zaria Fan Club are launching three contests for children age 10 and under:

Name the next Princess Series

Children 10 and under are encouraged to enter The Name the Next Princess Series. As I'm in the process of writing my third book, I'm stuck on the title. The theme of the book is about Princess Zaria entering a school spelling bee. The entry with the winning title will receive a dedication in the book, a certificate and a variety of gift cards which will include one from Toys R Us. The contest is open to citizens of the United States only. Respond via email at www.princesszaria.com . Winner will be announced May 30, 2010.

I Love My Mom Contest

This is a Mother's Day Contest. Children age 10 and under will send a 250 word or more essay detailing why they love their mom. Boys and Girls may enter and explain what makes their mom special. Does she pack you a special lunch with love notes? Maybe she reads to you every night. The student with the winning essay will receive a gift certificate to Applebees along with a special surprise for mom. The contest is open to citizens of the United States only. Respond via email at www.princesszaria.com The Winner will be announced on April 25, 2010.

I Love My Dad Contest will be announced soon. Good Luck!

Celebrate Dads

February is Fatherhood Awareness Month. I'm so glad dads are getting a special day(besides Father's Day). A lot of dads get a bad rap but there are a ton of dads doing a great job! Although this is a mommy blog, I want to share a story about my dad. When I was younger, I had problems in math. I'm still not a whiz but i get by:) My worst challenge was fractions. I just could not get it. I was getting C's in Math and I think that was only because I was a good student. I didn't give the teacher any problems.

My dad saw that I was struggling and even though he only had an 8th grade education, he was a mathematical genius! He tutored me endlessly. My dad worked in the factory on the afternoon shift so he was not home when I came home from school but my practice fractions were. He would leave about 10 problems for me to complete and when he got home after midnight he would check them and reassign more. I passed my fifth grade math class because of my daddy.

There are a lot of dads that are doing wonderful things in their homes, church and communities. Celebrate them. If you have or know a dad , tell him he's doing a wonderful job. Share with us your wonderful dad stories.

Report Card Anxiety

Last week Detroit Public Schools issued report cards. For the most part, The 'Real' Princess Zaria is doing exceptional well(besides the c's in Science and Social Studies). She earned all A's and B's. The last 3 tests in Science have been very challenging for her. Even princesses need help sometimes. Well, I was anticipating a drama show when I picked her up from school but to my surprise, she was very calm. She knew she would have to pull up in those courses and she didn't 'perform' like i thought she would. My little princess is growing up. I guess I was being more anxious than I thought she would be.

I'm wondering do other parents and their children experience report card anxiety? I mean, should the emphasis really be on the grades or should it be about what is learned and retained? For example, when my oldest son was in school he didn't test well at all. I can rememember quizzing him on spelling all week. He would master our oral quiz but when he got to school---blank. He almost always flunked the tests!

Last report card marking Princess Zaria earned 3-A's, 6-B's, and a C(in science). When kids don't do well on report cards does that mean they aren't bright?

I would like for kids and parents to weigh in on this. How do you feel about report card day?

New Title

I'm over six months into the release of my latest book, The Adventures of Princess Zaria, and in the words of Hannah Montana I'm looking for my next -next. My husband and son have been asking me when will I start writing my next book. While taking a power nap, I came up the the next theme. I think(and it may change) I will enter Princess Zaria into a spelling bee. Similar to the motion picture, Akeeyla and the Bee. How does Princess Zaria and the Bee sound? Or some variation? I am hoping it will serve as a literary motivation for children(especially girls)to enter spelling bees. As I'm writing this, I also want to congratulate all the participants and winners of The Scripps Spelling Bee, regional and school-based bees.

Please give me your feedback on The Spelling Bee concept for the next Princess Zaria Project. I welcome and encourage all suggestions.

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year Everyone!

2009 was a great year for us. My 2nd book was released in July. I debuted The Princess Zaria Fan Club, The Royal Gazette, The Little Princess Book Club and so much more. We have big plans for 2010 starting with Mommy and Me at the Movies. I have partnered with The Bel-Air Theatre in Detroit to host Movie viewings specifically for moms and their infant and pre-school children. I love this new venture. Please come out and support the venue and mommyhood.

The first meeting for The Little Princess Book Club starts January 30. This is to instill the love of reading in little girls ages 6-10. In addition to the book they will read, the little girls will receive: a tiara, a bookmark, and a princess journal to write notes. The girls will receive a vocabulary word(from or inspired by the book). They will learn the definition and be prepared to write a sentence using the word in context.

The Princess Zaria Fan Club is what I'm most proud of in this series. All little girls ages 3-10 are encouraged to join. As a member of the fan club all girls will receive a membership card, princess stickers and tattoos, a tiara, VIP seating at all PZ events, Advance Notice of all activities, a quarterly newsletter, a monthly e-newsletter and much, much more.

Activities for kids. Although The Adventures of Princess Zaria is targeted toward little girls, we do plan to offer activities/events that little boys will enjoy, too. Please stay tuned to the website for details.

Our new website will be launched in about another week or so. Be prepared for contest and giveaways. We will feature products that moms and children enjoy. We will have info about author school visits and our innovative parent parties. Please feel free to leave comments as you enjoy our posts.

I'm so happy to serve parents and little girls(and boys). This is a new decade for the princess within. Enjoy

By the way, Princess Zaria is on vacation until Monday, January 4. She is excited about her new year and looks forward to meeting all the little princesses all over the world.

Be Blessed