FemMusic: Goapele

Goapele is one of the unnoticed gems in the music industry but she still manages to have a large fanbase. Followers of Goapele tend to be lovers of 'real music'. I've known of her for a while now, even follow her on Twitter but today's the first I've ever listened to one of her songs (Play which is like lyrical sex), and I'm now obsessed. 

This song speaks to my present state of mind and I'm sharing it with you. Enjoy.

The Lyrics (Closer) 
Closer to my dreams Getting over, I’m gettin’ higher Closer to my dreams I’m getting higher and higher 
Feel it in my sleep Some times it feels like I’ll never go pass again Some times it feels like I’m stuck forever and ever When I’m going higher 
Closer to my dreams I’m goin’ higher and higher I ain’t gonna sleep Some times you just have to let it go (Let it go, let it go) 
Leaving all my fears to burn down Push them away so I can move on Closer to my dreams Feel it all over my being Close your eyes and see what you believe ...

Womanisms: Self-love

“Sometimes even the smallest, or simplest acts of resistance can seem like the hardest. Just remember that all of our struggles are different and that we are doing what we can. There is no ‘right way’ to begin to love ourselves, and there is room for all of us to exist where we are at. If you can’t take action today, there is always tomorrow, next week, next month, etc. Just keep trying, and above all treat yourself with gentle compassion and kindness because the fact that we are even contemplating these things is a powerful act.”


- Majestic Legay 

The Fighter

"There's no such thing as dying; you're either living or you're dead." (My 'mommy')

I've been holding back some tears today, but I've now decided to let them fall. There are some people in my life that can render me to tears just by the thought of their non-existence.

Gabey at the 2011 Toronto Waterfront Marathon - October

When I was just 3/4 years old I had the fortunate experience of meeting a phenomenal woman. I didn't know that this woman would have such an incredible and life-altering impact in my life. She grew to be more than a family friend, but an aunt, a confidante, a mother. My heart breaks in a million pieces to think of not having her here, to crack jokes, tell the honest truth (with love). She is one of the women on whose shoulders I've stood on, who believed in me when I didn't have the strength to believe in myself.

It is her legacy, and that of the other women who have raised me, who keep me motivated. They are the force behind this movement, behind my commitment to inspiring women to love self, to thrive, to believe, to say no to the naysayers.

Today I thought of the countless times she's been there for me, how she embraced me and loved me as my own.

Even now, fighting the hardest battle of her life, she continues to inspire. How will I ever live up to you? (lol never the easy way right?)

Here's to you Gabey, Thank you .. you phenomenal woman you

FemStyle: African-Inspired Textiles

This week I saw a woman on the bus with a laptop case made from Kente cloth - BEAUTIFUL. And I never let a woman pass without acknowledging her great style ... I'm the weirdo always randomly complimenting people's shoes.

My beautiful friend Annah

Head wraps became all the rage this summer (2011), thanks to people like (my style heroine) June Ambrose. Head wraps/scarves/ties are great accessories, and can dress up any outfit. It also adds a level of hauteness that no other accessory can.













The problem most people, including myself have is the actual wrapping. Here's a handy series of tutorials to solve that issue.

Also if you're loco for African prints as I am, here are two of my favorite designers:

BUSAYO (Honestly prefer the Fall 2010 collection)
OYATO (Love everything they have)

Both in NYC!

And one honourable mention - designed by a fellow Spice Sister

Veronica's Vision

Happy Shopping and Wrapping!

FemStyle: Coco Chanel

Fashion Icon: Coco Chanel. Simple. Elegant. Graceful.

FEMtweets

FemPower is now on Twitter. Follow and share. Also on Facebook ... we're everywhere, lol

Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/fempowerinc
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Fempower/125519047560964

Have a great Sunday!

Womanisms: M. Mitchell

"As women it is very importamt to acknowledge and embrace the talents, skills and accomplishments we have worked oh so hard for. Not making it seem of less value but of greater value praising ourselves for being able to suffice and over come the obstacles that stood in the way prior." Marisa Mitchell