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Mama Doll (center) with Honorary Black Doll B Angie B. and The Black Dolls.

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Spotlighting The Black Dolls Style, in Various Categories, "Yo! Black Doll Style" is a monthly feature in Ms. Heel Magazine! Available nationwhide or read it online.

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January 2021!

FEBRUARY 2021 - Double Love Issue!

MARCH 2021!

Above: March Yo! Black Doll Style with Ambossadoll Lisa Kitchens

Pictured Above: Mama Doll we love 'Yo! Black Doll Style!'

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Welcome to the April Edition of Ms. Heel!

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A Note from Mama Doll

It's bridal season! That time of year when Dolls go into overdrive trying to make everything "just perfect." Because you know, that's how life is, just perfect. Most, like 99.999% of women, think that getting married is a good reason to lose their reasonable minds on their way to the altar. I am NOT the one to say yes to the hot mess that is shopping for a white dress. Being a part of her wedding "party" is not for me. I want NO parts of the bride's lack of emotional intelligence, have no desire to buy the ugly (usually) matching dresses we're forced to wear and want no part of the servant type behavior brides maids are forced to endure. In the words of my very esteemed niece Baby Chloe, 'no thanks.' Oh sure I've been there and done that all for my sisters on their BIG day. But, unlike my girlfriends, my sisters back off when I tell them that they're being over emotional Bridezillas that can go kick rocks in open toe sandals. Baby showers are just as itchy for me as bridal wedding parties. DO NOT, I repeat, DO NOT invite me to any party where I have to figure out which candy bar is in the diaper - insert eye roll. But don’t get it confused, I'm a romantic! I love a good love affair! Boy meets girl and they fall in love is why we've gathered here today, dearly beloved. I believe in finding love, making love and nurturing love. I also believe in family, friends and frolicking through life in flip-flops. However, life has taught me that sometimes a Doll can trip while frolicking in flip-flops. That's why for this month's YO! Black Doll Style feature in my sister's magazine, Ms. Heel, I called my Mama's BFF for some good old fashion advice on unions. Read my interview "God Bless this Union" for advice and answers to your questions on love, marriage, friendship and family. Black Dolls, thanks for sending in your questions, and Mrs. Christine Union, thanks for being a Doll!

🖤

Xo, Mama Doll

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"God Bless This Union!"

by Dana Mama Doll Hill

Pictured Above: Mr. & Mrs. Sylvester Union

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Married to actress Gabrielle Union’s father Sylvester, Honorary Black Doll Christine Union is my Mama's BFF and The Black Dolls' elder advisor on family values.

Pictured above: My Mama and Mrs. Christine Union

During the 2021 bridal season and just months away from her 25th wedding anniversary, Christine chats with Mama Doll about powerful unions.

From Oprah's interview with Meghan & Harry to navigating self-esteem through everyday empowered unions, enjoy Christine's below Q & A.

Above: Christine & Sylvester Celebrating Gabrielle & Dwayne's Union

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It should be noted that in 2017, I reached out to Christine and asked if she would assist me in getting Gabrielle Union to accept my invitation to become an Honorary Doll of The Black Doll Affair. She said yes!

Mama Doll Question:

How and when did you meet my mother?

A:

I was a Sophomore in high school – around September of 1961. In Oklahoma City, she lived across the street from my future husband. No matter where we moved, Edna and I always stayed in touch. Because we had trials and tribulations we could only share with one another, we've made a point of keeping our friendship strong.

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Mama Doll Question:

What's your recollection of my sisters and I as baby dolls?

The Hill Girls circa 90s

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A:

Your mother and I are very proud of our children. As the Hill girls were growing into young women with unique personalities, I remember your mother often saying that your dad (Hal Hill) made beautiful girls. It was very clear each of you would be successful in your journeys into a world that was not ready for your wisdom, strength and courage. She was blessed to have you girls first, then to have a son later who would give her a different challenge of being mom.

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My brother Steven with my sister Christy and I.

Above: Mama and Christine #upindaclub circa 60s

Mama Doll Question:

What were you thinking in the above photo of you and Mama having a girls night out? Mama said she was thinking, "Where the hell is Hal Hill?" lol!

A:

Ah yes, we were in our 20s. Like your mother, I stayed busy keeping track of my very handsome and super friendly husband! lol

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Mama Doll Question:

The world is talking about Oprah's interview with Meghan & Harry. As you know, The Black Dolls were featured in their wedding video: "The Story of The Royals." I remain so proud of that moment. But, I have to say, I was afraid that she, an independent, bi-racial woman and successful American, would lose her super power to the Royal throne. To protect a bride's mental health and the independent family life she seeks to build within her marriage, when her name is about to become his, what advice do you have for The Black Dolls in situations where his dated family power and traditions clash with her new family values and vision? Mrs. Union, is it realistic for a new bride to expect to be able to construct independent family values within a family where who has the power has already been decided?

A:

A bride and groom should always be in communication about their expectations. Not everyone marries into The Royal Family, but every family has royal expectations. While Meghan is biracial, Princess Diana was not, but she too, received the dislikes from the Royal Family. Before they start planning the wedding, there should be an understanding of what each person expects from the other person AND their family. After they are married, they are considered as “ ONE “ Due to the power of the (Royal) family, realistic goals should include both parties’ expectation for their immediate family. Living under the same roof causes many heartaches, confusion and misunderstanding. The real power comes from Father God. When a man and women put their faith, hope and trust in Him, they can and will survive with that power in their marriage.

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Mama Doll Question:

When a wife goes against her husband's side of the family, as Meghan has, isn't she setting herself up for her husband to resent her in the future? And if it is a set up, doesn't that make marriage a setup for the empowered Doll?

A:

The role of the wife is to support her husband. The role of the husband is to support his wife. This means their communication should be total and complete, so there is

no misunderstanding and appeases what is hurting and what can hurt their relationship. Under no circumstances should either of them be afraid of taking a stance or sharing things that make them uncomfortable, unhappy, afraid, intimated or pressured to hide because they are not wanted. Love conquers all issues. Hold onto those family members who support you as husband and wife and fill your marriage "heart" with happiness.

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Black Doll Question:

I've never been married. What advice would you give to me on how to handle men who assume something is wrong with me because I've never jumped the broom?

A:

Marriage isn't for everyone, there are men and women who prefer to live a single life. Keep in mind what makes you happy. Where does it say you must explain to a man why you are not married? None of us should ever assume something is wrong with others because their choices differ from our own. Doll, look into a mirror and believe in yourself. Communication starts with two people who have something in common. Seek Father God first, asking Him to provide you with the right person.

Black Doll Question:

As an adult I was introduced to my father's family, consisting of my stepmother, an older half brother, a younger half brother and a stepbrother. While I was welcomed by everyone with arms wide open, I couldn't help but feel like an outsider coming into the family so late in life. Did you experience outsider syndrome when becoming a newly blended family? If so, how did you deal with it?"

A:

Yes, I experienced feeling like an outsider. The feelings of love begins with a warm smile. Being committed to Father God’s ways will always bring you joy. The outsider syndrome happens when conversations are held without you participating. Love those who are around you. Smile, include others and express your feelings by sharing how you want to be treated. Ask who would like to go to lunch, a movie, shopping, a concert or anything that will give you one on one until you feel good with each of them. Seek your father’s recommendations of how to best fit into his life. You are never alone, Father God is always right by your side.

Black Doll Question:

With a growing number of women delaying marriage until a later age, whether to allow for career advancement, attainment of financial stability, a greater sense of independence or whatever other individual factors are in play, many women rightfully take pride in their achievements and the personal branding that accompanies their success. What advice can you give when Mr. or Mrs. Right is adamant that she assumes his last name? Would the advice differ at age 30, 40 or 50 plus?

A:

Success in today’s market is a challenging achievement. Some feel their success can be affected with a name change. Serious communication between the two prior to marriage is very much needed to avoid any conflict. There are men who will search for women who are successful and will do everything they can to marry that woman and use their name to get ahead. Age does play a big part when looking to be successful and marry the right guy. Women 30 – 40 years of age have the patience to build a bright and successful future. While women in their 50’s and older will take fewer chances, if they are at risk. Love comes to all ages, we can make right choices when we build hope, trust and faith in our future mates.

Black Doll Question:

When it comes to a blended family with pre-teens and teens, how can parents/step parents establish a new parenting style so there isn't a "yours vs. mine" environment which could foster jealousy?"

A:

First things first, establish family expectations. All teens and pre-teens have different ideas of what is acceptable. Both parents can not assume that each child will know what the rules are. The best way is to have all the family meet and talk about how the future with all members will be conducted. Parents will set the stage by confirming that love will be shared by all. No one is perfect and we all make mistakes. Everyone should leave the meeting with a good understanding of being treated fairly and loved.

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Black Doll Question:

In 2020, my daughter became a wife, mother, and step-mom to two beautiful little girls. My request for advice involves understanding my role as a Grandmother to all the children. As a new Grandmother, I am prepared to shower him with everything, yet, the expectation from the parents is I should shower them all equally. What is the expectation? What advice do you have to manage those expectations?

A:

In today’s society, it is a blessing to find someone who will love you and if you have children from another relationship, it is a bigger blessing to share that love. I am a mother and stepmom, but I am a grandmother to every child. I am happy to see that the parents are feeling love for all the children. And they want the same love from you as you show your affections towards them. Children are extremely sensitive, but love will conquer all concerns as they feel wanted and loved. There is a different kind of love from grandparents, and when you have little one who we can share it with, our hearts are overflowing each and every day. Consider it a blessing to have a grandson and granddaughters. Shopping is never boring!

Black Doll Question:

As a wife or mother, it's easy to lose yourself. As much as we appear to be superwoman, it can be exhausting. What is your advice for someone who struggles with or finds guilt with taking time for themselves? How can I not lose me in my we?

A:

As a wife, mother and grandmother, I work to share the love and caring actions which display support, strength, understanding and faith in the relationship. Giving attention without showing emotions which need recognition for doing my job. As I get ready for “ME TIME,” there is never a question of why I am taking “ME TIME” because I have given my loved ones everything they need. Having a deep commitment to one another. There is no guilt when you share your love with your loved ones.

Mama Doll Question:

What does sisterhood mean to you?

A:

The true meaning of sisterhood is a sense of love and support for one another. Sisters should be there when no one else cares to. Sisterhood is a bond that is in any and all situations and no matter what, the love is pure and unconditional. Not all sisters are a part of sisterhood.

Mama Doll Question:

Through so much life evolution, you and Mama maintain your sisterhood-friendship. Friendship is hard as we GROW up. How does one do that without growing apart???

A:

Commitment & Communication! Commit to not letting a month go by without reaching out to your friends. We live in a world of technology, phone calls, emails, text, Zoom calls and don't forget the post office still sells stamps! ️

Mama Doll Question:

Revealing something, most people don't know about you, finish this sentence:

"I am ...."

A:

I am the oldest child of 9 children! My parents both worked two jobs and I was placed in charge of my siblings. To this day " I am the General". No matter what problems any of my siblings have, they have always come to me first, and ask me to take the situation to our parents. There are no problems without answers. "I am always available and at 75, I still get their problems, and provide answers.

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Mama Doll Question:

Welp, here we are! A looooong way from home, we're not in Oklahoma City anymore, Mrs. Dorothy! It's been quite the journey. If I had to talk to the little girl that grew up on 26th Street, I'd say, "Keep going." What would you say, or what advice would you give to your younger self?

A:

I have traveled the world. I had no idea of what life was like outside of Oklahoma. Plus, my parents were transferred to Alaska while I was in Massachusetts. It only took the move to Massachusetts to see I could live anywhere with my husband. Love encourages us to take challenges and keep our faith, hope and trust in Father God. Keeping my vows was what was first and foremost in my heart. There are so many opportunities available for jobs that each person should have dreams of doing something that will bring happiness in their lives. I would tell my younger self to "Dream big, reach for the moon and live with the stars."

Mama Doll Question:

When you and your husband are going out for a night on the town, what's

YO! Black Doll Style?

A:

I dress to impress. Depending on the occasion, I will go through several different outfits until I am sure it will show the elegant side of dressing up.

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Mama Doll (Final) Question:

Mrs. Union, is marriage the place for a woman with a voice and a vision...Can a shero marry a hero without losing her girl power?

A: