Pick Up Last-Minute Toys at Target!

Target is my by far my favorite store for buying just about everything my family needs. It's a a one-stop shop for me year-round, but it's even more my premiere store during the holidays. I've purchased several toys that my daughter will absolutely love from the store. From a Dora the Explorer guitar to PlayDoh to a Doc McStuffins figurine, she's going to be thrilled when she sees what "Santa's" brought.

If you're still on the hunt for the season's best gifts for kids, look no further than Target's Top 20 Toys! This roundup of the hottest toys for the holiday also comes with a gift to you—free shipping! But since it's so close to the "big day," you'll be happy to find most of the items listed still available in stores nationwide.

Here are a five of my top picks from the list:

Furby Collection available here, $54

Leapfrog LeapPad2 Explorer Kidz Bop Music Pack available here; $129.00

Baby Alive Baby Wanna Walk Doll available here; $39.99

Disney "Bounce Bounce" Tigger available here; $26.99

The Amazing Spider-Man Mega Blaster Web Shooter with Glove Set available here; $15.99

Happy Shopping and Happy Holidays!

Have you finished your Christmas shopping yet? Did you visit Target this season for gifts?

The Children's Place: The 'Place' To Be!

Ever since my daughter, Ava, was born (nearly 3 years ago!), she’s been heavily outfitted in clothing from The Children’s Place.

 Her entire wardrobe is at least 90% TCP, while the other 10% is divided between Target and GapKids. The fact that it’s only a couple of blocks away from my apartment probably helps, but even if it weren’t conveniently located, I’d still shop there frequently. The prices are always affordable and the clothes are nothing short of adorable. Plus, the quality is excellent, which is a huge selling point because we parents all know how quickly kids can wear out clothes!

Last week, I was invited to a “shop day” at the store for a mini shopping spree. And since I enjoy shopping for Ava more than for myself, it was a real treat! Ava and I were surrounded by sparkly sequin skirts, glittery holiday dresses and plenty of comfy PJs. There was so much cute stuff to choose from, I had to tear Ava away from the overload of goodies, especially the eye-catching accessories. After about an hour or so, we left with several items including: boots, jewelry, tops and bottoms!

One of my favorite pieces, Sequin Ombre Skirt; $24.99

If I had a son, I’d totally buy this cozy-looking Flannel Shirt for him; $9

We couldn’t have walked out of the store without these snazzy purple Pom-Pom Chalet Boots; $17

Do you shop at The Children's Place?

Kenya Dolls Return!

Twenty years ago, little BGs everywhere fell in love with the top-selling African-American doll in history—Kenya!

Screenshot of Kenya dolls from a TV commercial in the 1990s.

Now, the doll that stole the hearts of young girls is returning to store shelves this fall. Created in various skin tones, Kenya will return with sassy fashions and beautiful features that made the doll a favorite back in the 90s.

To promote Kenya's return, Shanica Knowles from "Hannah Montana" is featured in a music video, "Proud," celebrating the doll's relaunch.

Check it out here:


Did you own a Kenya doll back in the day? If not, what was your favorite childhood toy?

Makeup Maven Moms

Last year, I had the opportunity to catch up with some of the leading makeup and beauty mavens in the business who happen to be moms. Iman (Iman Cosmetics), Lisa Price (Carol's Daughter), Bobbi Brown (Bobbi Brown Cosmetics), and Maureen Kelly (Tarte Cosmetics) all shared beauty tips, parenting lessons they've learned, and more.

Click here to read the piece!

Are you a fan of Tarte, Carol's Daughter, Bobbi Brown or Iman products? 

BBG Chats with Kimora Lee Simmons-Hounsou

Ever since she hopped on the seen as Mrs. Russell Simmons back in the late 1990s, Kimora Lee Simmons-Hounsou has become a mainstay in urban pop culture.

From turning the fashion brand, Baby Phat, into an empire to her outrageous antics on her reality show, Life in the Fab Lane, Ms. Fabulosity has no plans of slowing down.

Kimora Lee Simmons-Hounsou out and about with her children, Ming-Lee, Aoki-Lee, and Kenzo earlier this month.

I spoke with the fashion mogul about being a mom of three, life after Baby Phat, and more. Check out the interview here.

Who's your favorite celebrity mom?

Monsters Made Friendly

If your child is convinced that there are monsters living under his bed or is simply afraid of the dark, ScareMeNots, a new plush toy line might be the solution to those nighttime fears.

Recommended for kids between the ages of 3 to 9, these stuffed toys are designed in the likeness of friendly monsters and were created to comfort children and protect them from the "scary" ones.

 Available at ScareMeNot.com for $19.99

With endearing names like Defender Dave and Protector Patty, these plush playmates will help your little one feel safe and secure. Even if your child doesn't live in fear of ghosts and goblins, ScareMeNots, make great cute and cuddly companions. 

Available in 6 different colors and styles, this award-winning toy will have your tots talking. 

Does your child have a favorite plush toy to keep him/her feeling safe at night?

Up Close with Timberly Whitfield of "Coffee Shop Confessions"

What mom doesn't love hearing juicy, heartfelt confessions from other parents about their children and the men in their lives? Then gabbing about what they've heard to others? In my experience, not many. That's why the new YouTube's CafeMom Studios' web series, Coffee Shop Confessions, is sure to be a hit among parents –– especially moms!

The cast of Coffee Shop Confessions (from L to R) Alex McCord, Timberly Whitfield, and Julia Knight.

Hosted by three incredibly witty and savvy moms and a dad: TV personality Timberly Whitfield, Real Housewives of New York star, Alex McCord, Julia Knight, and actor/founder of Cafemom Andrew Shue, Coffee Shop Confessions launched earlier this month and features re-enactments of hot topic secrets that the hosts tackle roundtable style.

Even though it's only been on the web a few short weeks, it's already becoming a mommy must-see.

I recently caught up with co-host, producer, and mother of two, Timberly Whitfield, to get her take on parenting, the new film Bully, and more!

Timberly Whitfield

Check it out below:

1       What advice would you give a new mom who feels overwhelmed?

"Breathe!  I know it sounds too simple, but I'm telling you it works.  Just a few deep breaths can do wonders for calming a stressed-out mom.  I have to constantly remind myself to do the same, because it's not something that comes naturally.  The shallow breathing that we typically do only increases anxiety.  Slow breathing really stills the mind and body in the moment, and you can then operate from a better place and deal with the situation at hand.  My mother is a yoga instructor and has been doing yoga all of her life, so I definitely take this from her.  Whenever I can I take a Kundalini yoga class which involves yogic breathing, and that keeps me centered for a long time!

I would also tell an overwhelmed mom to talk about whatever it is that is making her feel that way.  Keeping things inside will only make you feel more frustrated.  Talk to a friend, your husband, your children even.  I love CafeMom.com because it's a website that offers a safe place for moms to talk to other people who are going through similar situations.  And sometimes that's all you need - an opportunity to vent and not be judged!"

1           What do you hope to bring to "Coffee Shop Confessions?"

"We are three real moms (and a dad), all from very different backgrounds, who don’t always agree.  So, first of all, I hope we are entertaining!  We do want people to keep watching.  We weigh in on moms’ secret confessions and I hope from time to time people will take away some useful tips and/or advice they can apply to their own lives. 

Mom Confessions is a very popular feature on the CafeMom website, so they decided to build a show around it.  The confessions are reenacted, then the four of us – Andrew Shue, Alex McCord, Julia Knight, and myself – dish about it.  We had such a great time working together, and there was instant chemistry.  I hope that comes through."

Moms are always looking after everyone else; how do you find balance being a working mom? 
"I don’t know that we find balance, per se. I think balance can be a scary word because it implies perfection, and therefore seems unattainable. I see life for a mom more like juggling. You know when you juggle (which I learned to do, by the way), your eye stays focused on the ball that’s in the air, not down at the other balls in your hand. As moms we are constantly juggling many things. We are master multitaskers. Whatever “ball” is in the air is what we are focusing on in that moment. So you’re in that moment when you’re at work. You’re in that moment when you’re playing with your kids. You’re in that moment when you’re preparing dinner. And, so on. It ain’t easy! I’m always working at it."

How would you describe your parenting technique? 
"I don't know that I have a "technique," but I definitely should get one!! I remember how my mom could give my brother and me a single look, one we thought was terrifying, and that look would end any fighting, arguing, misbehaving in an instant. Well, I certainly don't have that. Wish I did! I guess I'm more of a softie. My husband is tad bit tougher, so that helps."

Have you seen the movie, Bully? If so what were your thoughts? 
"I have not seen Bully, but it's definitely on my list to see. I am horrified by what I've seen and heard in the media about bullying. There are a lot of wonderful things about our modern technology, but I think bullying has gone to new heights because of it. Between social networking and the use of cell phones, there is so much more harm that kids can do to one another now. It's definitely a whole new world - very different from when I was growing up. I'm very happy that the rating for Bully was changed from "R" to "PG-13." I think it's important that all parents see it, and then view it a second time with their teenaged children. The more people are aware, the better chance we have putting an end to bullying! It is an "epidemic" that has to stop."

You can watch Coffee Shop Confessions here!

Do you watch any mom-focused web series?

Gustafer Yellowgold Gets a Gold Star

If you're  unfamiliar with Gustafer Yellowgold, you won't be for long. Every so often a character comes along and captivates children while gaining the praise of parents –– Gustafer Yellowgold does just that.

Created by cartoonist/songwriter/performer Morgan Taylor in 2005, Gustafer is a unique, hand-drawn character hailing from the Sun (he now calls Minnesota home) who takes viewers on a whimsical ride filled with fun, learning, and MUSIC.

Creator Morgan Taylor with Gustafer Yellowgold. 

The new DVD/CD package, Gustafer Yellowgold's Year In The Day is packed with innovative and entertaining ways to engage tots and tykes through musical tales about classic and obscure holidays.

A couple of weeks ago, I had the pleasure of taking my family to see a live performance of Year In The Day. My daughter, Ava, was mesmerized from the moment Taylor took to the stage. With his guitar in-hand and the big screen nearby, Taylor commanded the attention of the preschooler-filled audience. 

Morgan Taylor performing on stage in 2011.

From a rocking rendition proclaiming Pankcake Day as a holiday to a finger-tapping tune celebrating Summer Solstice, Year In The Day is a perfect way for children and parents to enjoy catchy, melodic lyrics while letting their imaginations run wild. 

For ages 4 and up. Available at www.gustaferyellowgold.com for $18

Check out the following listing to see if Gustafer Yellowgold spring tour will be stopping by your neck of the woods soon:

• April 14 — Jammin’ Java, Vienna, VA 
• April 15 — Shepherdstown Opera House, Shepherdstown, WV 
• April 21 — The Regent Theatre, Arlington, MA 
• April 22 — SPACE Gallery, Portland, ME 
• April 29 — Cinema Arts Centre, Huntington, NY 
• May 11 — Kansas City Central Library, Kansas City, MO 
• May 12 — Off Broadway, St. Louis, MO May 19 — Good Records, Dallas, TX

Have you ever heard of Gustafer Yellowgold? What are some of your child(ren)'s favorite characters?

Brown Baby Gumbo Goes to the White House!

As I mentioned last week, I had the wonderful opportunity to attend the 2012 White House Easter Egg Roll. Originating way back in 1878 – the annual event took place on the South Lawn of the White House with picture-perfect weather.

The Obamas greeting attendees at the 2012 White House Easter Egg Roll.

It was a cloudless afternoon filled with fun, music, crafts, and more! While Ava was a bit under the weather, she still had a blast.

However, she didn't take too well to seeing some of her favorite cartoon characters like Dora and Diego from Dora the Explorer or the fun-loving Chipmunks up-close-and-personal. She made it clear that she didn't want a photo-op with any of the life-size characters.

From Disney star Zendaya taking center-stage to egg hunts to former Top Chef stars sharing a few of their healthy culinary tips, it was a special, action-packed day that I won't soon forget.

Check out some of my pics:

The entrance to the festivities.

My husband, Ava and me.

The stage where several young artists performed.

Ava wasn't a happy camper when it came to her seeing life-size characters in person.

The White House Easter Egg Roll wooden egg souvenir that was given to each child upon exiting the event.


How did you and your family spend Easter?

5 Tips for Creating an Easter to Remember

Easter was always my second-favorite holiday trailing closely behind Christmas. Candy, baskets, frilly dresses, and did I mention CANDY made it a springtime paradise for me.

This year I'm actually heading to the annual White House Easter Egg Roll with Ava, which I'm sure will exceed my Easter expectations.

But, if you're still unsure of how you're going to entertain your tots for Easter, check out the tips below provided by Walmart for a fun and family-friendly way to celebrate the hoppy holiday!

Ava taking a stroll in celebration of Easter last year.

· Fill large plastic eggs with age-appropriate toys, stickers and wrapped candy, (Tip: Keep safety in mind and avoid choosing small hard objects, or round or sticky candies that may pose a choking hazard for children under 6 years of age.) Filling the eggs can be done well in advance of the Easter-egg hunt itself, of course. When the big day arrives, keep an eye on young children during the Easter-egg hunt, so you'll be right there if they need you. And, if you plan on making your Easter-egg hunt an annual event, buy the large plastic eggs immediately after the holiday when they are on sale.

· Make tie-dye Easter eggs. Squirt or drizzle various colors of paint (not too much!) onto a paper towel. Place a hard-cooked egg in the center and carefully wrap paper towel around the egg, pressing gently. Remove paper towel carefully. Egg will be colored with a tie-dye effect!

· Decorate tiles. Buy inexpensive plain-white, beige or pastel tiles from a hardware store or home-improvement center. Paint or decorate with stickers.

· Customize picture frames. Buy 3" x 5" wooden picture frames. Paste on stickers or small decorative cut-outs of flowers, birds, eggs or other springtime motifs.

· Take an instant photo of each family. Each group can put the photo in their customized picture frame and save it as a keepsake of the day. Some families go as far as to actually hire someone to dress up as the Easter Bunny and pose for portraits.

Do you have Easter plans this weekend?

Today is World Autism Awareness Day

Today, April 2nd, is World Autism Awareness Day. Adopted by the United Nations in 2007, today is the day to recognize and spread awareness on the condition that affects millions of people throughout the world. In addition to raising awareness about autism, today is also meant to spur and draw attention to the unacceptable discrimination, abuse and isolation experienced by people with autism and their loved ones.

UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon said in a statement, "Although developmental disabilities such as autism begin in childhood, they persist throughout a person’s life. Our work with and for people with autism should not be limited to early identification and treatment; it should include therapies, educational plans and other steps that lead us towards sustained, lifelong engagement."

Get the facts on autism below:

• Autism now affects 1 in 88 children and 1 in 54 boys 
• Autism prevalence figures are growing 
• More children will be diagnosed with autism this year than with AIDS, diabetes & cancer combined Autism is the fastest-growing serious developmental disability in the U.S. 
• Autism costs the nation $126 billion per year 
• Autism receives less than 5% of the research funding of many less prevalent childhood diseases 
• Boys are four times more likely than girls to have autism 
• There is no medical detection or cure for autism

*Source: Autism Speaks


Were you surprised by the aforementioned facts?

Fabulous Photos from Nickelodeon's Kids' Choice Awards

First Lady Michelle Obama with daughters (from L to R) Sasha and Malia.

Al Roker and Deborah Roberts with their children.

Amandla Stenberg

China Anne McClain

Chris Tucker with his son.

Diggy Simmons

Holly Robinson-Peete with family

Keke Palmer

Ludacris with family

Jada Pinkett-Smith with children Willow and Jaden.

Rachel Crow

Did you watch the awards show?

Giveaway: Aveeno Baby Collection

One of the best things about newborn babies is that their skin is as soft and smooth as butter. To maintain that angelical, supple skin is to use lotions and gentle cleansers that are enriched with natural ingredients such as colloidal oatmeal and  to help lock in moisture.

While I've tried dozens of different brands for my daughter there's one that rises above the rest – Aveeno Baby. Admittedly, I am an ambassador for the brand, but I only agreed to partner with them because I wholeheartedly love how it makes my family's skin feel. Plus, it isn't loaded with a lot weird chemicals to potentially aggravate sensitive skin.

I'm giving away 3 entire sets of Aveeno's Baby Line including lotions, creams, moisturizers, and cleansers.

Simply leave a comment telling me about your baby bathing routine and 3 winners will be randomly selected and announced next week.

"Bully": The Film Every Parent Should See

As a parent of a 2-year-old daughter there are many things I fear, including her first day of school. Sure, most parents have bittersweet emotions about seeing their children mature and become more independent, but after viewing an advanced screening of the buzz-worthy documentary, Bully, my fears and anxiety have increased tenfold.

Directed by Lee Hirsch, the film follows five families and their children who have undergone unspeakable bullying in schools, including heartbreaking stories of an 11-year-old boy and 17-year-old teen who took their own lives to escape the unrelenting pain of bullying caused by their fellow classmates.

Bully will be released in select theaters March 30th. 

In addition to giving viewers  an up-close-and-personal look into the lives of those bullied, it also featured a young African-American girl's story of being held in a juvenile detention facility and later a mental institution as a result of retaliating against her school bus bullies by threatening them with a gun.

The emotional and heartfelt accounts documented in this film will hopefully open the eyes to students, parents, and school system facilitators worldwide. Bullying has always been around, but in recent years it seems to be becoming more than ordinary schoolyard squabbles. In fact, studies have shown that more than 13 million students live in fear of being bullied.

The film has partnered with outstanding organizations such as the National Center for Learning Disabilities to help get the word out about the film in an effort to stop bullying. No parent should ever have to bury their child due to a student's harsh words or physical abuse. Our children really are our future so it's our responsibility to stand up against bullying.

Were you ever bullied in school? Do you plan on seeing this movie when it's released in select theaters March 30th?

Disney To Debut New Animated Series "Doc McStuffins" This Friday

After Disney debuted Tiana, its first African-American princess in 2009, I didn't think things could get any better for Disney-loving little brown girls; but, thankfully I was wrong. The "House of Mouse," is back with a brand new animated series: Doc McStuffins, which features a lead brown-skinned character of the same name.

Doc McStuffins will debut March 23 on Disney Junior, 10am EST.

Voiced by 13-year-old actress, Kiara Muhammad, "Doc" is an adorable young girl who provides "medical" attention to stuffed animals and toys. Not only does the cartoon feature super cute characters, but it also aims to educate and entertain preschool viewers by conveying health messages peppered throughout each episode.

China Anne McCain, who sings the Doc McStuffins theme song and Kiara Muhammad, who voices 

the lead character of "Doc."

Launching in conjunction with the new 24-hour Disney Junior channel on March 23, "Doc McStuffins," will surely be a show that both parents and children everywhere will enjoy!

Will your child tune in to Doc McStuffins? What was your favorite childhood cartoon? 

I'm Back!

Shortly after I launched Brown Baby Gumbo in 2010, I founded Parade magazine's original mom blog: Modern Mommy and was unable to dedicate time to BBG, but now I'm back and ready to take you on my still new journey of motherhood.

As my first post points out, Ava was only a few months old, but now she's a little over 2 years old! Full of personality and a whole lotta of sass, Ava keeps me on my toes. Thanks to her occasional outbursts and tear-filled tantrums, I can certainly attest that the legend of the "Terrible Twos" is true!

Nonetheless, she is the pure joy of my life and will forever be.

Ava earlier this month.

Did your child go through the "Terrible Twos" stage?