Why Black History Is Important

Black History matters because through trials and triumphs faith carries us forward, reminding us that God is a keeper of promises and a restorer of hope.

Did You Know?

***Purpose***

 

1.     Why Black History Matters

Black History Matters because it reminds us of history rooted not only in struggle but also in strength, innovation, and perseverance.  Politicians seek to erase, rewrite, or dilute the truth of Black history.  Blacks will amplify our stories and refuse to let our history be rewritten, diluted, or discarded.  This is talked about at diversityinblack.com.

2.     Carter G. Woodson

Do you know who Carter G. Woodson is?   He is the founder of Black History Month.  In 1926 Carter took over the celebration of what he called “Negro History Week” and began observing it every February to coincide with the birthdays of abolitionist Frederick Douglass and President Abraham Lincoln.  According to Nationalgeographic.com this week was not just devoted to historical accomplishments, but celebrated current Black artistry in music, literature, and art.

 3.   Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History

I was blessed several years ago to visit the Charles H. Wright Museum, 315 W. Warren Ave., Detroit, Michigan. I am also blessed to say that I am a proud member of it.  This museum has so much black heritage.  Some of it’s past speakers include Nina Compton, Keith Knight, and Imani Perry.   This year in 2026 marks the museum's 60^th Anniversary.  This is talked about at thewright.org. This museum is a living testament to the resilience, creativity, and brilliance of a community whose contributions have shaped our world.  It safeguards more than 30,000 artifacts and archival materials, from African masks to civil rights documents to labor movement records, all telling powerful stories of struggle, triumph, and hope.

4.   Who Was the First Black Woman to Serve in the Military?

Do you know who the first Black Woman was to serve in the Military? Harriet Tubman was one of the first Black women to serve in the military for the Union Army during the Civil War which lasted from 1861 to 1865. This is talked about at today.com.  They further added that Harriet worked as a nurse, scout, spy and soldier.    Sounds like she was a (jack of all trade).  They also talked about Thurgood Marshall.  He was the first Black American appointed to the Supreme Court on August 30,1967 and he served for 24 years before retiring in 1991.   I am so proud.

5.   Vaccinations

Did you know that an enslaved person by the name of Onesimus, brought to the Massachusetts colony, told church minister Cotton Mather about the way inoculations were practiced in Africa for centuries to prevent people from getting sick.  This is according to red.com.   They further added that Dr. Zabdiel Boylston inoculated more than 240 people, despite a large opposition to the practice.

6.   Mary Jackson

Who was Mary Jackson?  Mary Jackson was a mathematician and aerospace engineer and a pioneering figure at NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration).   Explorewithoteria.com talks about this.   They further added that Mary was one of the people responsible for the advancements in the space race, and in 2019, she was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal.

This reminds me of the movie “Hidden Figures.”  Her life was displayed in this movie.   Can you imagine this?   Because of segregation she would need to leave the building and go about a block to the bathroom designated for Blacks only.   Often returning to work late. I could not imagine having to work under those conditions.   Her boss said enough is enough and had a bathroom designated in their building for her.  After all she was a valuable member of the (NASA) team.  

7.  Virtual Black History Tour

Have you ever heard of a Virtual Black History Tour? Withconfetti.com talks about this. The tour guide will take you on a virtual field trip exploring the streets and back alleys of U Street or Pennsylvania Ave.  You will see a vast collection of neighborhood snapshots and learn about events, landmarks, and sights that encompass the history of Washington, D.C.’s African American community.  This planned event must be booked and there is a charge for the experience.

 

  So many heroes you probably did not know about.  Let’s talk about

8.   Bessie Coleman. 

Who was she? Bessie was the first Black American woman to hold a pilot’s license.  Keep in mind that this was during a time when black people were prohibited from voting, using public facilities, and riding railway cars with white people.  Stacer.com talks about this.   Now after many rejections from aviation schools in the United States She was accepted at the Caudron Brothers School of Aviation in Le Crotoy, France, in 1921.  This is sad that she needed to go to another country to be accepted.   But I am glad and proud that she did.

9.  Distorting the Past

Are there those that want to distort the past?  Yes there are. Hajar Yazdiha at hgs.harvard.edu states, “Distorting the past is a powerful political tool for creating an alternative social reality that justifies everything from re-segregation to genocide.”  She further adds that distorting the past ensures we do not learn the histories of everyday people of all stripes, coming together, organizing, struggling, and resisting.  Instead, we remain helpless and scared, atomized and pitted against one another.  Black history is vital not only for understanding the past that led us here, but it is vital because it affords us the vision and will for a collective path forward.

Source:

Reclaiming Our Story: Why Black History Matters Now More Than Ever | Diversity in Black Media

How the U.S. began celebrating Black History Month | National Geographic

 The Wright Conversations | The Wright

15 Black History Facts Kids and Adults Should Know

25 Black History Month Facts You May Not Know in 2026 & Beyond

10 Fun Facts About Black History You Probably Didn’t Know | Explore With Oteria

Black History Virtual Tours | Black History in D.C. | Confetti 🎉

19 Black Historical Figures You Probably Didn't Learn About in Class | Stacker

Black History Month: The Importance of Learning Black History | Harvard Kennedy School

 

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My Cozy Winter Favorites

Since Oprah came out with her favorite things it started me to think.  What are some of my favorite things especially during the Winter?

 

***Purpose***

 

Winter is not one of my favorite things, especially in Michigan.  I am so disappointed that there have been several days that the sun has not shown up.   The sun is essential for health in many ways.  

1.     Importance of the Sun

The sun is essential for your health.   Sun exposure for 10 to 20 minutes daily provides vitamin D, which supports bone strength, immunity, mood, heart health, muscle function, sleep regulation, and can help relieve seasonal depression.    Health.clevelandclinic.org. talks about this.  The sun is a topic for another post. I have a list of my favorite things in the Winter.  I would like to share with you.

2.     Hoodies

I used to wear long sleeve sweaters during the Winter.  I used to wear undershirts under my clothing during the winter.  The sweaters seemingly did not keep me warm enough.  Michigan has had some very cold and harsh winters which included below zero temperatures.   I tried wearing a hoodie.  I like that it keeps me warm and the hood protects my head well. I discovered the men hoodies were much cheaper than the women’s. So I buy men hoodies.   I now have several in a variety of colors such as red, orange, blue, pink, and black.  I'm also thinking about including burgundy and white to the color selection.  I am happy with my investment in hoodies.  I also sometimes wear a T-shirt under the hoodie as well for an additional layer of warmth protection.

3.     Long Coats

Did you know that wearing a long coat during the Winter is priceless?  I found that it provides substantial protection against cold and wind, particularly for the legs.   I have invested in a couple of long coats.  I am sure to use them when the temperatures are below 40 degrees. In Fact today it is -2, cold and very windy.  My long coat is perfect for this type of weather. 

 

4.     Sketchers Short Boots

I invested in sketchers years ago.  I first tried one pair of tennis shoes.  I heard a group of nurses talking about how sketchers were so good on their feet when standing for long hours.  After my first pair I bought several more pairs.  The memory foam in them makes you feel as though you are walking on air.  I used to wear long boots but switched to short Sketcher boots.   I prefer ankle boots.     They fit snugly around my ankles and feel great.  I have one black pair.  I have been looking for a red pair, but I have not been able to find this same design in Sketchers. 

5.     Scarf around the Neck

Wearing a scarf protects my neck and throat.   This does make a difference in the Winter.

6.     Wear a Mask

I know it was emphasized to wear masks during the COVID-19 Pandemic, but I have found the masks are very helpful during the Winter.  Initially, I would wear a scarf around my neck.   Then I discovered that a mask worked just as well.  It also prevents the cold air from coming into my lungs.

7.     Small Blue Raspberry Frozen Fanta

My grandson was drinking a large Blue Raspberry Frozen Fanta.  He said they're so good I should try one.    I purchased one.    I really like them.  I buy them at McDonalds.    I also cannot forget the Peach Slushes found at La Familia Restaurant.  I like Peach Slushes even better than the Blue Raspberry Frozen Fanta.

8.     Remote Car Starter

I believe this is a great invention.   Entering a warm car is generally more comfortable than stepping into a cold vehicle.  This also works just as well in the summer.  Starting your car in the summer and allowing the air conditioner to cool it off is a plus when the temperatures are soaring in the 80’s or 90’s.

9.     Winter Salads

I have found great winter salads at Great Giant Supermarket, G-5204 N. Saginaw St. Flint, Michigan 48505.    Besides the fact that they have an awesome deli with fresh hot meals, they serve fresh salads daily.   I just love this.  I tried one and I love it.  I have had their chicken salad and the ham and turkey salad.  They are $9.99.   Well worth the price.  I appreciate this because it's rare to find salads at fast food places like McDonald's or Burger King, as they usually only serve breakfast in the mornings.   Great Giant opens at 8 am and I know that I can go there and find fresh salads.   They are wrapped colorfully with love.  You know there is a difference in the appearance of salad when it is prepared properly?

10.    Bible Online

I love having my King James Bible online.   My pastor once emphasized to us the importance of saying scripture allow so that we can really hear it.  My online bible speaks it allowed.   This is something that I really like.  Also, I visited another church recently. I pulled my iPhone out to read the scripture.  I was amazed   as the minister read the scripture over half of the church also pulled their iPhones out to read the scripture. 

11.    Chicken Soup for the Soul Inspirational word-finds

I love these word-finds because they are not just any word finds.   They are word-finds with a message.  They are comforting for the mind and spirit. They can be a cozy companion for those winter evenings.   They are perfect for unwinding, boosting focus, and feeding the soul- one word at a time.

12    Pinto Beans

I grew up with just about every type of bean to eat daily.  One day it might be pinto beans, navy beans, or kidney beans.  I discovered since I became an adult that I love Pinto Beans.  I like the fact that they are inexpensive and very nutritional too.  According to Healthline.com Pinto beans are loaded with nutrients including fiber protein, thiamine, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. I usually soak the dry pinto beans overnight before cooking.  This allows the beans to cook much faster. 

 

 

 

Source:

How Much Sunlight You Need Each Day

Great Giant Supermarket

7 Health and Nutrition Benefits of Pinto Beans 

 

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Cellphones Vs. Reality

Are you on your cellphone constantly?  Have you taken the time to monitor your cellphone time?  Do you just monitor your children’s cellphone time and not monitor your own?  Do you prefer the cellphone rather than one on one time with others?   Think about it.

Did You Know?

I recall something that my ex once said.  I told him I wanted to watch my favorite picture.  I emphasized that this was the day it came on television.  His response to me was, “Why watch your picture when you have the real thing right here in front of you?”  That did make a lot of sense, because everything that we see on television is not reality but rather fantasy, sci-fi, and other fictional characters.

 ***Purpose***

     1.   Digital Isolation

I am constantly amazed when in a restaurant, doctor’s office, even in the grocery store, the amount of people that are constantly on their cellphones.  Before cellphones we possibly engaged in actual conversation with others that were present with us.  It appears that things have now changed.  Psychlogytoday.com talks about a study that was done to track adolescents for three years as they transitioned into young adulthood and found that early problematic cellphone use predicted later depression.   

    2.    Cellphone Distractions

Have you ever tried to engage in conversation with someone, only to observe that they were preoccupied with their mobile phone?   They seemingly were glued to it. Possibly they should do a reality check.  That can be very distracting.  Cellphones help us, but overuse can turn them into major distractions.  

    3.    Quality Time

Can you create a signal with your loved ones to indicate you need quality time?   Yes you can.  Just as individuals sometimes step away from television or work commitments to focus on quality time, one can also transition from digital engagement to real-world experiences.   The newsroom.uscellular.com talks about this. They give examples such as, “Let’s put the phones away for a while,” or possibly using a non-verbal gesture. 

    4.    Cellphone Day

I recall one day I went to an event.  I would be at this event for at least 5 or 6 hours.  When I discovered I forgot my cellphone, I was devastated.  I literally felt naked. I could not imagine living in the moment.   I found myself reaching for a cellphone that was not there.   My husband bought me my cellphone.   I had to give him a big hug for that.

I recall 2 of my grandchildren spent the summer with me.  I observed they were constantly on their cellphones.  One morning at breakfast I asked them to put the cellphones away until after breakfast.  My one grandchild was really upset and said she did not feel well and needed to go lie down.  She did not know how to act without a cellphone. 

I also recall sometimes moving very quickly to get out of the way of someone walking that was looking down on their cellphones.  The problem with that is that when you are on the cellphone and looking down you are not aware of your surroundings and that can be very dangerous.

Have you ever tried not using your cellphone for a day or even for several hours?  Have you considered not using your cellphones when going to an event with family?  Have you checked your cellphone usage?  Have you tried limiting your cellphone usage before bedtime?   Did you observe you may have slept better because of this?  Have you observed that at the beginning of some funerals they now ask you to turn your cellphones off or either to silence them?  

   5.    Answering Your Cellphone

Do you always answer your cellphone immediately?   Have you considered just letting it go to voicemail and answering it later?   Have you thought about how you survived before cellphones were invented?   

   6.    Are You Addicted to Your Cellphone?

Addictions come in many forms, not just drugs.    Are you possibly addicted to your cellphone?  Do you have digital balance?  A few signs that you might be addicted to your cellphone might include  experiencing anxiety when your phone is not within reach, Your screen time shows a high number of hours, you frequently check your phone, even when it is not necessary, your Smartphone use interferes with your  sleep hours, you are compelled to use your phone during social interactions, you use your Smartphone while engaging in dangerous, activities, or you hear imaginary notifications.   According to howtogeek.com these may be a few signs that you are addicted to your cellphone.

I recall a friend that mentioned she was not getting much sleep.  She shared she was sleeping with her cellphone in her bed in case her friend gave her a call.  I thought to myself, “Why would she do that?”  There has already been so much talk about not sleeping with your cellphone near you because of the radiation it gives off.

    7.    How to Break Cellphone Addiction

If you discover that you are addicted to your cellphone just know that there are ways to break that nasty addiction.  Do you want to break your cellphone addiction? sometimes you might need to unplug to connect.   You might try a few of the following:

·        Think about how you feel after being on your cellphone: Is your neck stiff?

·        Check your screen time

·        Turn off unnecessary notifications

·        Delete as many apps as possible

·        Start using the do not disturb feature

·        Do not use your phone for minutes at a time

·        Set aside some phone free-time

Finally: 

·         Keep your phone where you can't easily reach it

·         Be intentional when using your smartphone

·        Don’t be hard on yourself

These suggestions are all talked about more in depth at pittsburgheartday.org.

I have had a stiff neck from using my cellphone, so I have cut down my screen time.   I should know better though because before cellphones were invented a job that I worked required me and my coworkers to call 1700 accounts monthly within a short time.  My coworkers and myself would experience neck stiffness during that time.  I would even line my children up when I came home from work to give me a neck massage.   They gave the best neck massages too.     

If you relate to these experiences, consider making a change.   Consider using your cellphone in moderation. Consider real life moments.   Remember everything in moderation.     

      

 

Source:

When Cell Phones Replace People | Psychology Today

Cohen: How Smartphones Affect our Relationships

7 Signs You May Be Addicted to Your Smartphone

10 Ways To Break Your Smartphone Addiction - Pittsburgh Earth Day

 

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Vegetarian Diet Vs. Vegan Diet: What’s the Difference?

Are you a Vegetarian?  Perhaps you are Vegan?  Is there a difference? Are you weighing both options?

  

Something to Think About:

***Purpose***

     1.   The Difference between Vegetarian and Vegan Diets

What is the difference between Vegetarian and Vegan Diets? A vegetarian does not eat any animal flesh such as meat, poultry, or fish, whereas a Vegan is a stricter vegetarian who also avoids consuming dairy, eggs, and any other ingredients derived from animals.   Healthline.com talks about this. They also mention that vegetarian diets have existed since at least 700 B.C. (Before Christ). Vegan diets are relatively new.

     2.      Why Become a Vegetarian?

Becoming a vegetarian can lower your risk of heart disease and cancer, support weight loss, promote longevity, minimize exposure to food toxins, benefit the environment, support world hunger efforts, show compassion for animals, and let you enjoy diverse vegetarian cuisine.   This is according to downtoearth.org.

I recall my daughter was a Vegetarian and cooked me a meal.  I thought it would be bad, but it was actually very good.   I could not have imagined.

     3.   Why Become Vegan?

Animals are battery caged, dairy cows suffer physical tortures, animals are cruelly transported, mutilation for animals raised for food, fish can contain risky levels of dangerous chemicals, plant-based diets can lower cholesterol, boost your mood, improve your concentration, prevent osteoporosis, and much more according to the humane league.org.

 Did You Know That:

     4.   Free Meal Delivery

Did you know that Hungryroot.com is one company that delivers meal-kits to your door?  They also help with improved health, money savings and time. They further added that they select ingredients and meals to match your dietary preferences from 42,000 + recipes.

     5.   Healthy Food Choices

Ultimately, what is beneficial for one individual may not necessarily be suitable for another.  Verywellheath.com talks about making good food choices:

·        Keep a Food Journal to Stay on Track

·        Make Gradual Changes

·        Stack Up on Healthy Staples

·        Eat Less of These Foods

·        Meal Prepping and Planning

·        Swap Unhealthy
Snacks for Healthier Alternatives

·        Choose Healthier Options When Dining Out

·        Eat Healthy on a Budget

·        Drink More Water

·        Move Your Body

·        Get More Sleep

·        Practice Mindful Eating

·        Read Food Labels

·        Increase Calcium and Vitamin D

I can definitely Identify with most of these especially stacking up on healthy staples.  When I stopped smoking, I made sure that I kept fresh vegetables such as raw carrots, celery, etc. in the house and in the car when I traveled.  That really helped me.

          6.    The Art of Salad Presentation

Is there an art to salad presentation?  Why is it important to make a visual presentation? Have you looked at some salads and felt that they were not appealing at all?  They did not make you want to eat them. While salads are good for you a beautifully arranged salad can entice guests, encourage healthy eating, and showcase your creativity in the kitchen according to decorwithstyle.com.

I know that to be true.  I recall several places where I loved their salads, but when they changed management so did the salads.   They no longer looked or tasted as good as the previous salads did.  Decorwithstyle.com also added that presentation enhances flavor experience and promotes healthy eating.

         7.    A Few Vegan Recipes

Vegan Fajitas: with sheet pan veggies

The ingredients are as follows:

·        Onion: white, yellow or red

·        Bell peppers any color

·        Cauliflower

·        Portobello mushroom

·        Olive oil

·        Chili power

·        Cumin

·        Smoked paprika

·        Garlic power

·        Onion power

The directions for making these can be found at acouple.cooks.com.

        8.   Easy Vegetarian Enchilada Casserole

   The ingredients are as follows:

·        1 15-ouce can black beans, drained and rinsed

·        15-ounce can refried pinto beans

·        1 red bell pepper, finely diced (1 cup)

·        4 or 5-ounce can mild diced green chilis (optional)

·        ¾ cup canned corn

·        1 teaspoon each garlic power, onion power, cumin, and smoked paprika

·        ¾ teaspoon kosher salt

·         2 cups (8 oz) shredded Mexican blend cheese

·        12 corn tortillas, cut in half

·        2 ½ to 3 cups mild red enchilada sauce (about 18-22 oz)

·        Finely minced red onion, green onion, and cilantro, for the garnish  

Because I like both Fajitas and enchiladas I may try them.

        9.  Vegan Food List for beginners

Are you possibly thinking of going to Vegan?  Below are a lists of foods to get you started.

·        Pantry Staples- legumes (canned or dried)

·        Grains (quinoa, rice, oats

·        Nuts and seeds

·        Whole grain pasta

·        Canned vegetables and sauces

·        Whole grain flour (for baking)

·        Refrigerated Section-Tofu, tempeh, or seitan

·        Plant-based milk alternatives

·        Plant-based yogurt and cheese alternatives

·        Fresh herbs

·        Freezer Section:

·        Frozen fruits and vegetables

·        Veggie burgers or meat alternatives

·        Spices and Condiments- Herbs and spices

·        Nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)

·        Soy sauce or tamari

·        Olive oil or other cooking oils

·         Vinegar (balsamic, apple cider, etc.

·        Bakery Section- Whole grain bread or wraps

        10.     Vegetarian Soup

·        Vegetable broth 6 cups

·        Carrots, 2 cups diced

·        Celery, 1 cup diced

·        Onion, 1 cup chopped

·        Garlic, 3 cloves, minced,

·        Potatoes, 2 cups diced

·        Spinach, 2 cups, fresh,

·        Zucchini, 1 cup diced

·        Canned diced tomatoes, 1 can

·        Bay leaves, 2

·        Thyme, 1 teaspoon, dried

·        Salt, to taste

·        Pepper, to taste

·        Olive oil, 2 tablespoons

The directions for making this can be found at easytocook.blog.   Because I love soups, I will probably try this recipe first and I will have to update here as to how it turns out.   I am looking forward to this.  I love various soups.

 

 

Source:

 

Vegan vs Vegetarian - What's The Difference?

Top 10 Reasons for Going Veggie | Down to Earth Organic and Natural

24 Reasons to Go Vegan in 2025

Hungryroot | The easiest way to eat healthy.

19 Easy Ways to Start Eating Healthier Every Day

Creating a Visual Feast: The Art of Salad Presentation - Decor With Style

50 Easy Vegetarian Recipes Everyone Will Love – A Couple Cooks

Vegan Food List for Beginners - learning from Plant-based dietitians

Hearty Vegetarian Soups to Brighten Your Day | EasyToCook

 

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