Book on My Nightstand: How To Be Black

I first heard about this book when I haphazardly turned the radio dial to NPR one afternoon. Comedian/author Baratunde Thurston talked about and read an excerpt from his satirical memoir How To Be Black.

When I heard Thurston read about his first experience with the term “Oreo”, I burst out laughing. I knew exactly what he was talking about. I didn’t need any further convincing and I knew that I had to have that book. Not only did I feel that Thurston’s story mirrored my own, I shared in his sense of humor on growing up black in America.
Once I had my copy in hand, I couldn’t stop laughing. Much of Baratunde’s Washington, D.C. roots and his attendance of a prominently white school instantly related to my story. He has a way of giving the reader a view of his world without any aggressive undertones or hard agendas. He even made part of the book a practical guidebook for anyone looking to befriend or work with a black person, become the next black president or challenge anyone who says they speak for all black people.
Take a listen here to the author’s NPR interview. You can also purchase How To Be Black on Amazon.

Enjoy!

~ Anita

Follow Anita on Twitter: @Emranija

From NPR News: Student Debt Weighs Down Women More

Student Debt Weighs Down Women More. Blame The Wage Gap http://n.pr/1grnwKZ

5 Things You Should Do This Spring

Spring brings out action.

Happy First Day of Spring Everybody!

I truly love this time of year because nature is beginning to blossom and warm up again. With the spring equinox upon us, it’s a great time as any to spring into action ourselves. I came up with five things you should do in the springtime:

1)      Do some spring cleaning: Whether it’s your house, car, wardrobe or Facebook… we are all in need of a little cleaning. So why not simplify your life and free it of that clutter?

2)      Spend more time outside and less in front of the TV: With the temperature slowly rising, pick an activity to do outdoors. Fly a kite, play baseball, ride a bike, run or walk a marathon, even reading a book outside will count!

3)      Start a garden: Whether it’s a vegetable or flower garden, this time of year is perfect to get your green thumb crackin’. Personally, I’m more partial to fragrant flower gardens.

4)      Shop at the farmer’s market: If you’re not into planting and tending your own garden then the farmer’s market is the best next thing. It’s a little pricey, but the payout is worth it in the end. Remember: Support local businesses and buy locally.

5)      Take a mini-vacation: Oh how I love a vacation! And a mini-vacation is just as wonderful. Even if it’s as simplistic as a picnic at your nearest state park or grand as having a spa weekend. A mini-vacation is a great refresher.

I hope my five ideas were helpful to you for spring 2014. Have fun trying them!

Enjoy!

~Anita

 

Follow Anita on Twitter: @Emranija