Build-A-Bear's Workshop has a new Peace and Hugs bear, which focuses on a positive theme that helps others and is supported by famous people like Natalie Cole, David Archuleta (American Idol), Meaghan Martin (Camp Rock) and Jamia Nash.

Note: I was invited as media to this event. Any personal views expressed are always 100% my own.

Something to also celebrate is the image of little black girls doing positive things.

When I learned that Jamia Nash, singer of the August Rush movie song "Raise It Up", which was nominated for an Academy Award, had a meet and greet at the 5th Ave Build-A-Bear Workshop location...I knew I should take my niece.

I wanted her to see a little black girl like her in a different role then she was used to.


Soon the room became filled with other mom bloggers and their kids excited for Jamia to arrive. While waiting I had the chance to briefly chat about community and life in Brooklyn with Theresa Kroll (Chief Entertainment Bear), who took time to meet and thank the moms bloggers for visiting today.

Soon Jamia was there ready to answer questions and autograph the music download cards for her R&B version of the song "Lets Talk About Love" which is the Love. Hugs. Peace. movement's signature song. Each artist has created their own special rendition of the song to help spread the message of sharing and love to benefit Save the Children.


When it was my turn I walked up with my niece excited for her to talk to Jamia. Sadly my niece instantly became shy and I ended up asking Jamia questions on her behalf while she autographed our music card.

While Jamia was a professional, I could see the sweet little girl as she told my niece how she started her performing career. Jamia also showed her sense of humor by telling her at 5yrs, she was singing and performing so my niece is old enough to get started on her career. LOL


But the best part was saved for last...the actual making of our own Peace and Hug bear! My niece had a Peace and Love bear.

We were excited as we went thru the process of giving our bear life...a process which of course included the special dance. As I watched my niece kiss, hug, and grin her way to making her bear complete, I hoped that I can continue to help her see black females in positive positions and lifestyles.

After all isn't that what Aunts are for?!

Thanks to Build-A-Bear and MomSelect.