Friday, January 30, 2009

Healthy Teeth, Pampered Hands

I was reading an article the other day that talked about a new trend in dental offices--dental spas. Apparently dentists are finding that if you are a relaxed and happy patient, you are more likely to pick those optional procedures like teeth whitening, veneers, and braces (well optional for some).

Some of the spas even offer manicures, pedicures, eyebrow waxes and hair services. I think that this could be a little confusing for your husband/significant other who might see you go to the dentist to get your teeth cleaned and then come back out looking almost like a model (relaxed and glowing). Hmm...it is getting close to Valentine's day so that may not be a bad thing.

The trend seems to be catching around the world with Bangkok Dental Spa claiming to be Asia's first dental spa. Ther is the Zen Dental Spa in South Africa which promotes dental tourism, and Beach Dental Spa in Kerala, India. Seems like a great idea. What are your thoughts?

Michelle Obama Models a Ladylike Attitude

Linda Lowen wrote on About.com that Michelle Obama was the first, First Lady, to bring a gift for the outgoing first lady. Now that is truly a class act.

I think that as our girls grow up watching Michelle Obama balance work and home with her grace and dignity, they will learn that it is truly a great thing to be a true lady AND we can balance work and home without sacrificing either.

There is much to be said about Laura Bush who, though she was never quite in the limelight like her husband, worked hard to make a difference (and did). She also was one of the first to stand up for Michelle Obama when the media and the McCain camp were on the attack about a statement Mrs. Obama made.

Women, we are definitely in the presence of two great ladies who have managed to keep their femininity without sacrificing their independence. We would do well to take note.

Monday, January 26, 2009

How has Obama's election affected you?

Barack Obama's election has been galvanizing on so many levels, for so many people. It was great for me to listen to Les Nubians and Angelique Kidjo as they shared the fact that his running for office marked a milestone in a struggle that people of color, in particular, have had. It, however, was also a nod to the fact that if we follow our dreams, we can achieve whatever we want.

Women have worked hard to make a difference around the world, and are probably more aware than anyone else about the realization of dreams despite inequities. As a Kenyan-American, Barack Obama's election is important because his father comes from a tribe that has long been marginalized and put down. The area his father grew up in is extremely underdeveloped, but Obama's election may change things as people make a trek to an area that has long laid ignored. It also gives hope to a people who have been struggling against unfair odds to survive to make a better future for their children who can look to the President of one of the most powerful countries in the world, and say, you too can be like him. He is one of us!

What has his election meant to you??

Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Why do some women remain with men or women who are abusive?

Domestic violence is a growing problem that is now considered a public health issue. There are times when women remain with the men that are abusive to them, citing several reasons including the fact that they are there for the children, they don't know where to turn, or they are safer remaining with the abuser than they are leaving (if the abuser threatens to kill them if they leave).

Are these reasons good enough for women to stay? Are the women just weak willed? Share your experiences or suggestions with us.

Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C)

I would like to get comments about a topic that is very unfamiliar to women in the U.S. The topic is Female Genital Cutting/Mutilation, most commonly known as FGM/C.

Female genital cutting/mutilation is the removal of the female genitalia (clitoris and in some cases, the labia). It is performed with unsterilized instruments and in unclinical settings.

Global Woman has spoken out against FGM/C since the launch of the magazine. We welcome your comments and support in this matter.