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Did you know there was a new princess coming to town?

 

Well, in Disney-like fashion they are introducing Princess Tiana from the classic story “Princess and the Frog.”

 

 

You remember the story-line don’t you? A prince is under a spell and is turned into a frog. The frog must kiss a princess in order to become human again.

 

Well, Disney has not only added a twist to this animated comedy, but some noticeable

SOUL to the story-line.

 

 

 

That’s right—this Disney film will be featuring its first African American princess and I for one am thrilled!

 

The plot takes place in New Orleans and has an amazing voice cast:

  

 

Tony Award-winning Actor, Anika Noni Rose, plays the voice of Princess Tiana and Bruno Campos, is Prince Naveen.

 

Bruno is a Brazilian actor best known for his role Dr. Quentin Costa on the Golden Globe Award-winning television show Nip/Tuck. NBC drama ER fans might recognize him as the guest Doctor Eddie Dorset.

 

Keith David, Voice of Dr. Facilier—check him out in this clip!

 

 

 

Jennifer Lewis, is the voice of Mama Odie

 

Ritchie Montgomery, the voice of Reggie

 

And Opray Winfrey plays the voice of Eudora, Tiana’s mother.

 

 

Co-stars (L-R) Jennifer Lewis, Keith David, Anika Noni Rose, Bruno Campos, Terrence Howard, and Jim Cummings arrive for the premiere of “The Princess and the Frog” at Walt Disney Studios in Burbank, California November 15, 2009

 

This movie looks really good and to get a taste of its SOUL check out tibits of the soundtrack. Nothing like adding some spice to the Disney Collection!

 

Click Here To Check Out Princess Tiana Goodies!!

 

*Check back soon, as I will be posting about the Princess Tiana Party I am planning for my girls—oooo it’s going to be so much fun!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pink and Brown: Celebrating Shades of You
by Jill Hart and Takiela Bynum   http://mops.org

 

“Hi Takiela, I have a funny story to tell you. The other day after you and your son left my house, my son asked me, ‘Mommy how I do make Terryon’s skin pink like mine?’” I chuckled while I stood at the sink with the phone in hand waiting for Takiela’s response.

 

“That is too cute. What did you tell him?”

 

“I wasn’t sure what say so I redirected his attention. It’s actually why I’m calling, though. I want to know what you would have said in that situation.”

 

This conversation began a series of discussions between us on the subject of educating our children regarding cultural differences. We’ve all had situations like this, where our children ask us questions about why people are different colors, shapes, or sizes. Sometimes we’re embarrassed by their questions or comments. Their curiosity is natural, however, as they take notice of the world around them.

 

Diversity is apparent in most areas of our kids’ lives. People from all walks of life are in our society today, from Oprah and Barack Obama, to cartoons like Dora and Handy Manny. Differences are what make us unique individuals. Shushing our children is not the answer to these questions, uncomfortable as they might be.

 

As a mom, your response will influence your children’s view of the world. By modeling and sharing a godly perspective, you can develop a loving way of thinking about others and a healthy attitude toward cultural differences. Here are a few ways to address questions about differences:

 

• Be open and honest. Don’t shy away from the questions and comments your child has from time to time.
• Explain to your child about how God made us all different. Do it in terms they can understand.
• Point out the positive differences between members of your family. Share how being unique makes each person special.
• Encourage friendships with people who are different from your child. Playdates are a great way to expose your child to diversity and you might also make a new friend.
• Take time to help your child learn about cultures by reading books and magazines or eating at an ethic restaurant.
• Praise your children for being kind and looking beyond appearances.

 

As a mom you certainly don’t have all the answers to those questions that make you blush in public. By nurturing the relationships your child develops with other children of any culture, you will give him a head start in life. The earlier children learn these lessons, the better chance they have at succeeding in our multicultural society. By following the above tips, you can easily develop these strengths in your child.

 

  

Jill Hart is the founder of Christian Work At Home Moms, www.CWAHM.com, a website devoted to helping moms find success at home. She is also the co-author of the book So You Want To Be A Work-At-Home Mom (Beacon Hill, Sept 2009).

 

Takiela Bynum is the founder of www.BooksALatte.com, a website dedicated to promoting multicultural Christian authors. She is also a freelance writer working on her first novel.