Never take Facebook friends or any other friends for granted. Give Gratitude for all!

Hello Friends!

I had an awakening yesterday about Facebook Friends and all friendships. There was a decision that would have impacted my life in a major way. Well, I had a meeting and the decision maker was my Facebook Friend! He saved my life, so give gratitude for all friendships. Regardless, whether you think it's small, social media, large and all, it's still friendship!

Thanks to all my friends and family, near and afar. Happy Thanksgiving!
I love you all.
Judith F. Osei Tutu
704-332-7442
www.africanclothes22.com
www.blogtalkradio.com/africathebeautiful2
11/22/11

Check out the Kwaanza Ball in the Queen City!

The first of it's kind, there's a Kwaanza Ball coming to the Queen City. In December 2011, there will be a Kwaanza Ball, place and date are not confirmed. Still exciting! Get you African Clothes from African Clothing Liberty & Fabrics for the Kwaanza Ball. Go to www.africanclothes22.com or
704-332-7442.

Sales for now and the holidays - 50% off on African Clothes! Hurry, www.africanclothes22.com

We have 50% off on all African Clothes only! Selected African Fabrics are 10% off!
Hurry, Hurry, please call us at 704-332-7442 or www.africanclothes22.com.
We are in Charlotte, NC.

Fantastic News! Our Store is in the University City Magazine, August 2011 issue! Get 50% of on all African Clothes for men and women.

Thank you all! Our store was featured in the August 2011 issue of the University City Magazine! We are offering 50% off on all African Clothes for Men and Women, to say thank you and we appreciate your business. The sale ends soon so hurry!
Judith, 704-332-7442, www.africanclothes22.com, www.blogtalkradio.com/africathebeautiful2.

New Linen Dresses, Linen Shirts, Fabrics on SALE! Hurry! www.africanclothes22.com

If you are looking for beautiful African Linen Dresses, Linen Shirts, Dashikis, Fabrics, etc; then come to African Clothing Liberty & Fabrics for our ultimate Summer Sale!
Address: 3720 North Tryon Street, Ste 101, Charlotte, NC 28206. Ph 704-332-7442, we can also special order clothes for White Parties, Diddy style! Come in and hurry! www.africanclothes22.com
www.blogtalkradio.com/africathebeautiful2

What a beautiful day! How important is drumming? Thanks to the YMCA Drummers.

I am enjoying this blissful day. The McCrorey YMCA African Drummers were here this morning and gave us a beautiful drumming session! Drumming is not only for entertainment, but even today; there are several parts of Africa and the world, where drumming is also way to communicate.

From the African ancestors to the Aborigines in Australia; drumming has always been a favorite pastime. Anytime you need to relax, reconnect, study and share, drum! You do not have to be a perfect drummer. Just start with or without a rhythm and sooner or later, you will find your own rhythm and stick with it. It's also a great way to meet new people and make friends.

After drumming, you sleep better! If you are having a hard time sleeping at night, try drumming during the day. Drumming is very vital for our organs and our immune system, please check with your doctors before you start any extreme drumming! Lol

Judith F. Osei Tutu
www.africanclothes22.com
www.blogtalkradio.com/africathebeautiful2
704-332-7442

I found out that I am going to be in a movie! Never Stop Dreaming.

Guess what? I found out that I will be in a Movie! I have been asked to play myself and it will be shot at the store and around town locally in Charlotte, NC. Who knew that a little girl from Africa, trying to better myself by getting good education, raising my family, helping my families and others; could also be in a movie? Or, isn't life a movie or reality anyway? Except one is recorded and one is real and happens the way it is.

I am very, very, thankful for everyone who has helped directly or indirectly in my growth. It's not easy but you have made a difference. If being in a movie is any indication of what my future will be; you are responsible and I thank you again from the bottom of my heart. Revenge is a waste of time a unnecessary anyhow, let your enemies and naysayers see you in a positive light and never stoop to their level. Our Father and Creator knows what's inside of us and evil have no chance if you do not let them. I simply choose to be kind, responsible and lift others up as well.
Judith F. Osei Tutu
www.africanclothes22.com
www.blogtalkradio.com/africathebeautiful2

Call in the Radio Show today at 2pm-2.30pm est.

Africa the Beautiful 2 Radio Show is on today and Thursdays at 2pm-2.30pm. Our Guest today is Ms. Sankofa Baba from the PEN Organization. It's about self-help and economic uplifting in our neighborhoods. Call 714-816-4631 or www.blogtalkradio.com/africathebeautiful2.

Host: Judith F. Osei Tutu
www.africanclothes22.com

Fabrics! Fabrics! Fabrics on Sale! www.africanclothes22.com

We have new Fabrics in the store! We are clearing the old and new to make room. We have Kentes, Mud Cloths, Kuba Cloths, Laces, Java Prints, English Waxes, etc. There are Traditional African Ladies Dresses for all occasions, don't forget our unique Africa Jewelry for yourself and as a gift!

There are seamstresses locally, that we work with to get your alterations done quickly. Stop by and pick your selection in fabrics and beautiful already made clothes. If cash is tight, don't worry, ask for the 30days layaway plan on everything, even on sale items! There's always a rack with 50% off the already reduced price, come check us out.

Looking for Designers, Dancers, Drummers, Artists, Doll Makers, Seamstresses/Tailors, Quilters, Interior Designers, etc. Mention your business and get a discount!

Do not forget to listen to "Africa the Beautiful 2" Radio Show tomorrow at 2pm-2.30pm. Call 714-816-4631 and/or www.blogtalkradio.com/africathebeautiful2.

Thanks,
Judith F. Osei Tutu
www.africanclothes22.com

Taste of Ghana that almost did not happen!

Taste of Ghana is a beautiful celebration that brings friends, families, co-workers and all together for free. It's an event that I give several times a year, as a Ghanaian born American Citizen. I love my new country but I cannot forget home, Africa, the land of my birth and kindness.

So a Taste of Ghana is preparing Ghanaian meal samples, a Fashion Show and Marketplace; where we tell stories about Africa, our similarities in cultures, foods, etc. I thought I had it all planned out for May 7th, 2011 from 1pm-2pm, on 3720 North Tryon Street, Ste 101, Charlotte, NC 28206, Ph 704-332-7442. Less than a week before this event, the Drummers and Dancers canceled and the cook went out of the country.

Luckily, I had my own drums at the store and called few friends to drum for me, Heather came by and danced so beautifully and spontaneously! I served some refreshments for the crowd and customers. God is Always Amazing! It turned out to be more beautiful than I had imagine. No drama whatsoever! I am still in awe about the friends and customers who were there and the love. There was also 50% discount on ladies Clothing for Mother's Day! I lost my own Mother recently; so I wanted to honor other Mothers, Step Mothers, Pet Lovers, Single Fathers, Grand Mothers and all. Just to let people know they are appreciated and you can be kind no matter what your situation is. It's something that my parents, Grand Parents and others instilled in me when I was growing up in Ghana. It was indeed a beautiful Taste of Ghana because everyone benefited from the act of kindness. In the end, the only thing that matters is kindness; and that's what we all want regardless of culture, color, background, education and our circumstances. Thank you!
Judith F. Osei Tutu
www.africanclothes22.com
www.blogtalkradio.com/africathebeautiful2

Listen to "Africa the Beautiful 2" Radio Show today at 2pm-2.15pm

Please call in at 714-816-4631 and listen to Africa the Beautiful 2 Radio Show at 2pm-2.15pm. Also access at www.blogtalkradio.com/africathebeautiful2. Guest is Mr. Dan Price from Vemma. Judith, www.africanclothes22.com

Use Customers Complaints to build lasting relationships.

When customers complain and you know you have done all you can, is frustrating. But customers are right most of the time so really listen to what they are saying. After all they have options and so do you but who benefits from this, you, the customer or future customers?

It's you the merchant because "silent customers" can kill your business very fast. They do not argue or complain, they just leave and share their experience with several people and you have no idea. So I practice kindness with customers and people whenever possible. A little humility can go a long way, you may not know what kind of day they are having so why be difficult.

A current experience on Facebook taught me a great lesson. I have replied a FB message through my email because I was in a hurry and a lot of things to be done. I had just returned from Africa, my Mother had passed away and I went home for the funeral. I have used my business email to answer FB post, no problem from anyone except one person. She posted to let me know this was unacceptable and went on and on. So I asked her to delete me as a friend and I will do likewise because I want to stay positive. Oh, she was not done and kept going on and on.

She then offered to coach me for free! Who needs coaching here? I declined and she said she wanted to help me, I said no thanks! I found out that I was not the only person she talked to or treated that way. Had she listened to me or practiced a little kindness; she would have learned that I had lost my Mother and I was away and that was the quickest way to answer all my emails in a hurry! She lost me as a customer and my respect for her is reduced, I will not recommend anyone to go to her either, even if it's free! Treat your customers with respect and kindness and complaints are not bad, it's how they are handled and resolved. Yes, you can build solid long lasting customer relationships based on complaints.

Sale! Sale! 30% off on all African Fabrics and Outfits! Hurry sale ends soon.

Take 30% off on all items in our store! Including our already reduced 50% off rack! This sale is from today till April 18th 2011. We have authentic Kentes, Mud, Kuba Cloths, Various Wax Prints, Laces, Drums, Masks, Jewelry, etc. Our address is: 3720 North Tryon Street, Ste 101, Charlotte, NC 28206.

Ph: 704-332-7442 or web, www.africanclothes22.com.

Please hurry, we have beautiful dresses for spring!

Missing Ghana! I just returned 22 days ago.

I am missing Ghana already! I have been back for almost three weeks now but I miss the people, family, friends neighbors and the environment. Africa has a 'spirit of connectedness' and it's beautiful to watch it upclose and in action.

We are very embracing and welcome everyone in Ghana. When I was there last month, there were those who were happy to see me because I was returning from America and they expected gifts and money from me. And there were some who welcomed me with open arms; whether I gave them something or not! There were even some who gave me, without me asking. My reason for going home was rather a sad one; my Mother had passed away and as her only daughter, I had to be there for her burial and funeral.

It was very heavy for me to process the loss, I cried and cried some more. It was also a time that I danced in the public for the first time in years. As part of our Ashanti custom, they played some music for me to dance and friends, family and even strangers helped me with the dances. I danced gospel, reggae and our own Kete! It was also raining and I was sweating so it did not make any difference! It was very refreshing and purifying experience for me. I also laughed the hardest in years because I knew what I had been through and nothing could compare my testimonies in America. From the miscarriages, love, betrayal, losses, relocations, and encountering bitterness and hatred from those I thought loved me. It's confusing at times but with God, prayers and my prayer warriors; we triumphed over them all and that was part of the hardest and belly laugh!

There are no regrets but lessons learned. Would I go through the same experiences again? Not really! I would compare what people say to what they are doing and come to my own judgement. What some say and do are two different things so lookout for self and do you first. I was able to reflect and laugh at my own mistakes sometimes while I was in Ghana. My Grand Father, Nana Osei Kwadwo, from the Ashanti Royal Family, had 89 children and some came to my Mother's funeral to mourn with us. So everywhere I turned, I saw love and people who looked just like me:-))) Whether they judged me or not did not matter because I felt loved and at home. Judith F. Osei Tutu, www.blogtalkradio.com/africathebeautiful2, www.africanclothes22.com

africanclothesfabrics22: Africa the Beautiful 2 Radio Talk Show today!

africanclothesfabrics22: Africa the Beautiful 2 Radio Talk Show today!: "It's always a pleasure to share and be a resource in the community. I started Africa the Beautiful 2 Radio Talk Show and TV Show to answer q..."

Africa the Beautiful 2 Radio Talk Show today!

It's always a pleasure to share and be a resource in the community. I started Africa teh Beautiful 2 Radio Talk Show and TV Show to answer questions about Africa. Whether it's tourism, beauty, hairstyles and the best way to take care of them, how to start your own successful business, education, culture, nature and many others to help.

To visit Africa for the first time is sometimes scary for some people, if they are going alone. But there are scheduled different church groups going to Africa maybe once or twice a year. There are also travel agents locally here in Charlotte, NC who can help you plan a successful trip to Africa.

There are somethings you can share with people, butthey get a true sense and capture the spirit of Africa when they are there themselves. For instance, I was in Ghana, West Africa last week and we were visiting a relative. Some of the stores and koisks were pictures of Ice Cube, Will Smith, Jay Z, Beyonce, Little Wayne, PDiddy, Russell Simmons, Chuck D, Dre and many other African American Celebrities, artists, athletes, etc.

Some of the people in Ghana are fascinated by the African American Celebrities and other celebrities from other races. It's beautiful to hear them talk about Martin Lawrence and his comedy. It's very liberating for them although some are suffering back there but identify with these celebrities because they see them as brothers and sisters, motivation and an extension of themselves to reach higher!

If only African politics can be transparent enough and make things accessible for people all over the world to visit, I think it will be number one tourist destination. There is beauty and authenticity in Africa! The people are kind generous with whatever they have. Along with humility, they care about everybody, maybe that's why there almost no homelessness. I hope everyone will have the opportunity to visit Africa at least once in a lifetime. The nature, beauty, serenity, culture and the people are excellent and very rare! Call in to my Radio Show at 1pm at 714-816-4631 or email me at "africathebeautiful2@gmail.com," or go to www.blogtalkradio.com/africathebeautiful with your suggestions and what you want to hear. We are here to hear and serve your needs.
Judith F. Osei Tutu, www.africanclothes22.com

africanclothesfabrics22: Africa the Beautiful 2! TV, Radio and blog Launch ...

africanclothesfabrics22: Africa the Beautiful 2! TV, Radio and blog Launch ...: "We launched Africa the Beautiful 2 today! We are on TV live and Radio, chatroom, etc. What stories are we going to cover and who will benefi..."

Africa the Beautiful 2! TV, Radio and blog Launch today!

We launched Africa the Beautiful 2 toady! We are on TV live and Radio, chatroom, etc. What stories are we going to cover and who will benefit from these shows? I know there are a lot of people who would like to visit Africa but do not know where to begin and where to go. We will have guest on the shows who book travels with or without accommodations, with Tour guides, transportation, food and all. This way, you can relax when you are in Africa, enjoy the culture, scenery and the people.

Whether the Safari, meeting the locals at pubs, restaurants, markets and sellers. Whatever you want to do there, the tour guides will help you so you can experience Africa as an authentic place; not what is portrayed on TV here daily. There is beauty, wisdom, kindness and prosperity in Africa and our shows will bring them all to you!

Please check Africathebeautiful2 at your local listings and on the internet. Thanks, Peace and Blessings! Judith F. Osei Tutu, www.africanclothes22.com

A trip to Ghana in 30years, traditions never changed though!

I made a trip to Ghana in 30years, I was there for 10days for my Mother's funeral and Memorial Service. What made me to stay away for so long is something personal. Through education and communicating with family and friends back home in Ghana, I thought my presence was not needed but that is not the case. The projects there were not bad but could have been completed sooner with my presence.

The family selected me to inherit my Mother. As part of our Ashanti Tradition and me being the only daughter, I accepted. It's a lot of responsibility, and I will need help from family and friends with getting familiarized with our traditions one more time. One thing for sure, I would not stay away for too long again! Seeing the faces of people who are counting on me and my decisions is a strong feeling I could not just ignore anymore. For instance, I have a nephew, Hashim who is also an orphan who needs a place to stay. The family compound is not big enough to accommodate him and it breaks my heart to see him struggling for the basic neccesities. I did the best for him while I was there and would continue to make a difference in his life. I thought I was helping him but he helped me more with his love and affectionately calling me 'Mama.' I called him son too and when he smiled, it makes the world brighter and a better place, I want him to feel safe. Love is the only answer! Judith F. Osei Tutu, www.africanclothes22.com

CSUF Celebrates Black History Month

CSUF Celebrates Black History Month

Black History Month - Communication & Love

Having attended several events lately, I now realize how important communication is between African Americans and Africans. One of them took place at the LATIBAH MUSEUM. The topic was "Africa." They invited people from various parts of Africa, such as Ghana, Liberia, Senegal, Nigeria, South Africa and Ivory Coast to come in and speak about their countries. Most of the audience were African Americans. It was an eye opening event and a lot of the exchanges were very positive.

After the event, several people who had never been to Africa said they will be happy and ready to go now because they thought before that; Africans did not like African Americans! Some of the Africans also said they thought the African Americans did not like them! So this was a great opportunity to change that perception and it was done through communication and love.

Maybe this is a beginning of Africans and African Americans coming together and unite and lift each other up, regardless. We can all benefit from each other's experiences and move forward together in unity.
That is love.
Judith F. Osei Tutu, www.africanclothes22.com

africanclothesfabrics22: Black History Month, what are the schools teaching...

africanclothesfabrics22: Black History Month, what are the schools teaching...: "Every February in the US is the Black History Month. But when you look at the schools from Pre K and up, there is no sharing of the contri..."

Black History Month, what are the schools teaching about Black Heroes?

Every February in the US is the Black History Month. But when you look at the schools from Pre K and up, there is sharing of the contributions Blacks have made to this country. Or their sacrifices, and to take it a step further. During slavery, some Blacks were taking by force from their homes in Africa, whilst their children, wives, families were crying and begging to save them from coming to America. From those taken, some were Kings, Queens, Princes, Princesses, Doctors, Lawyers, farmers, elders, masons, etc.

You could still hear the echoes of the cries from their families, their sadness and despair to this day in Africa.

The slaves had homes and families in Africa, they shared everything so there were very few homeless people there. To force them to come to America and give them false promises; only to find out they were lied to. But Blacks being very resilient people; have done very well by putting the past behind them and moved forward. It has never been easy as some are still struggling. But this is the story that needs to be told to the students; about where they came from and why they are here. There are people like Frederick Douglas, Sojouner Truth, Dr. Martin Luther King and Malcolm X just to name a few who were Blacks and made a huge difference. The students should know these history makers and identify so they too can become history makers someday. Black History Month is about Unity, Love, Respect, Resilience, Redemption for everyone.
Judith F. Osei Tutu, http://www.africanclothes22.com/ 

Metro Detroit Black History Month Events | detnews.com | The Detroit News

Metro Detroit Black History Month Events detnews.com The Detroit News

africanclothesfabrics22: I Love African Jazz Tshirts from Zazzle.com

africanclothesfabrics22: I Love African Jazz Tshirts from Zazzle.com: "I Love African Jazz Tshirts from Zazzle.com"

I Love African Jazz Tshirts from Zazzle.com

I Love African Jazz Tshirts from Zazzle.com

BLACK HISTORY, AFRICA, BET, JET & EBONY ALL RELATED?

Some often question why Black History, BET, Africa, Jet, Ebony & Black History Month necessary. They are all related and very behind in high lighting Black Beauty, Achievements and the struggle. No one can write a history of a particular group accurately; without the group's participation. This is why it is extremely vital for Black participation in history.

Also, highlight people like Princess Elizabeth of Toro. A beautiful modern day Princess, who is an African, Model, Actress, Activist, etc. Dr. Kwame Nkrumah from Ghana who played a critical role in the Civil Rights Movement. You will not hear about these people and others who have made significant difference in society. A book by Daniel Laine` called "AFRICAN KINGS" also mentions the Kings and Queens; in Africa who kept up with the culture and values, while making a difference in politics. So if BET, Ebony, Jet, Black History Month exist; they must be honored! Without them, Black History will not be heard or told.
Judith F. Osei Tutu, http://www.africanclothes22.com/

africanclothesfabrics22: Can you believe Gop Rep. Michele Bachman is saying...

africanclothesfabrics22: Can you believe Gop Rep. Michele Bachman is saying...: "I was reading an article about CNN Anderson Cooper's 'keeping them honest' conversation with GOP Rep. Michele Bachman. She referred to her '..."

Can you believe Gop Rep. Michele Bachman is saying about Slavery, with Black History 2011 around the corner? www.africanclothes22.com

I was reading an article about CNN Anderson Cooper's "keeping them honest" conversation with GOP Rep. Michele Bachman. She referred to her "founding fathers" helping slaves and finally freeing them! Wait a minute Rep. Bachman, why did slavery start anyway? Who was helping who? Slaves were taking against their wishes and forced; some even died in the process of fighting "not" to come to America. The slaves had parents in Africa, some were fathers, husbands, aunts, sisters, brothers, uncles, kings, queens, princes, princesses, professionals, children, etc. What were the Africans told and promised to go into slavery? Who really benefitted from slavery? Maybe, Rep. Michele Bachman need to sit down with someone and go over the facts about slavery. Her remarks are very inaccurate and insensitive, especially with Black History Month 2011 around the corner. These ignorant comments are not only insult to us; but divides us, when we are all trying to unite and help one another. She needs to apologize, what do you think? You can also check out, http://www.latibahmuseum.org/.
Peace, Judith

Taste Of Ghana 2011- Black History Month, Harrisburg Elementary

Please join us on February 05, 2011 for a Taste Of Ghana at the Harrisburg Elementary School. It's an annual Multicultural Celebration and it's free for all. CIC and the Kumasi Committee will be part of the festivities; bringing you a Taste Of Ghana. For more information, call Ms. Viki from the school at 704-455-5118 or Judith at 704-332-7442, http://www.africanclothes22.com/. Thank You!

Shop Early For Black History Month - www.africanclothes22.com

Happy Black History Month! While you are planning your wardrobe for Black History Month, do stop by our store and see the new African Clothes, laces, prints, masks, drums, etc. Ph 704-332-7442. We have free shipping within the US. I love Black History Month! You get to learn a whole lot if you are open to new things and ideas; you also meet amazing people. I will be at the LATIBAH Museum (http://www.latibahmuseum.org/ tomorrow. They have are doing a show about Africa with different people representing the Motherland/Source making statements, I will be representing Ghana! They are ahead of time and putting a lot into this, please support Africa in anyway, if you can. Stay positive and relevant, I love being African!
Blessings,
Judith F. Osei Tutu, http://www.africanclothes22.com/

africanclothesfabrics22: Why is Black History Month relevant in Africa and ...

africanclothesfabrics22: Why is Black History Month relevant in Africa and ...: "The questions start pouring in around this time every year. 'Why do we need Black History Month?' We need Black History Month to teach ourse..."

Why is Black History Month relevant in Africa and in American? www.africanclothes22.com

The questions start pouring in around this time every year. "Why do we need Black History Month?" We need Black History Month to teach ourselves and our children about our ancestors and the living. The history of Africa as a continent is very relevant to Black History and Black History Month. People need to know their ancestors were and are Kings and Queens in Africa! There were African Presidents like Dr.Kwame Nkrumah who were very instrumental in the Civil Rights Movement here in America. These lessons are not taught in schools so without Black History Month to highlight these men and women in Africa, how can Black History be complete without our source, Africa? Children in Africa also need to know Black History and how we are all related and can help and lift each other up, regardless. With President Barack Obama, leading as an example and hope for everyone; even little children in Africa and all over the world can dream and make their dreams come true! So African History, Black History, Black History Month are all one, and originated from the source, Africa. You may also visit the Latibah Museum or http://www.latibahmuseum.org/, to get more information.
Blessings, Judith F. Osei Tutu. http://www.africanclothes22.com/

Building African University: Photos Day 5- It's all about the People

Building African University: Photos Day 5- It's all about the People: "This was our last full day in Tali. The agenda for the day included a Woman's Forum and Cultural Event. It was this day that we were fully i..."