"I almost fall asleep as Mama massages my scalp,
peppermint bubbles floating all around my head.
A waterfall of curls stretches into the tub as she
rinses my hair until it's squeaky clean.
rinses my hair until it's squeaky clean.
Squish squish ... squeeze squeeze ...
every strand of my hair is smoothed and coated
with smells of honey, jasmine, and coconut."
every strand of my hair is smoothed and coated
with smells of honey, jasmine, and coconut."
Have you got a favorite day of the week? Mine has changed over time, I think. I remember distinctly that in the year following my retirement, I loved Sundays the best. I no longer needed to have all the work done for the week ahead, and could really use it as a day of rest. In retirement, most any day can become a favorite.
For the little girl who tells this story, she lets readers know right away that Sunday is her favorite. It's the day when she and her mama spend time together without any interruptions. It is also the day for washing her hair. Early in the morning, she requests 'the single beaded cornrow combo'. She would prefer that the beads match her soccer uniform. From her mama's bathroom, she gathers everything they will need. Taking it to Mama in the kitchen, the work begins. Mama begins mixing the secret ingredients they will use for the washing process.
"A little bit of honey for smoothing, for when life gets tough; a little bit of tea tree oil for soothing, for the discomfort that can come with growth; but mostly some coconut milk and avocado for strength, so you can keep going."
Mama is ready with warm water, a gentle hand, a quiet hum, and love, love, love. Once washed, rinsed,
and conditioned, the hair goes under a cap to let it absorb all the goodness. While it works, tea and cookies are the order of the day. Then, they share laughter and stories as Mama works to part, oil, and dry the hair that will soon be brushed, braided, and beaded, while Mama's lessons for life are voiced.
Digital illustrations match the comfort and joy found in the gentle words of the meaningful text.
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