tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83487973639147093512024-03-05T06:32:43.155-06:00Beautifully and Wonderfully Made!Journey with me as I move forward in life, creating new chapters of life, closing some doors so that others can be opened. It's my journey and pursuit of happiness, all while being a DIVA!Beautifully Made!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17261488816415328474noreply@blogger.comBlogger25125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348797363914709351.post-78865892943828193432011-03-14T17:26:00.003-05:002011-03-14T17:39:37.252-05:00I love my SL's until....I have to do a reti!<br /><br />Hey world! The hustle and bustle of life has me not sure whether I'm coming or going. I don't regret, through the ups and downs that I have had, my decision to lock my hair. I am thankful to God that I had the foresight that I did.<br /><br />I am currently student teaching....with an almost impossible to "please" cooperating teacher, taking 10 hours outside of my seminar for student teaching...AND I am the single parent of a three year old. Needless to say, the last thing I need to be worried about is my hair.<br /><br />With that said, the only time I even really look at my hair is when I notice the baby afro growing at my roots and realize that, dammit, its been almost 5 weeks since my last reti....where has the time gone?<br /><br />So...here I am today, trying to find time to do my reti....mentally planning out the hours of 4 pm and 10 pm, trying to fit baby time, homework, planning, grading, cooking, AND a retightening....oh, AND bathroom reading time. LOL.<br /><br />I just think about six months from now when I will be able to sit back and let my consultant do her magic.....when I will be a certified teacher....and able to sleep in the chair.<br />Until then....I wonder how long it'll take for me to finish at half an hour a day. Lbvs!Beautifully Made!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17261488816415328474noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348797363914709351.post-41630659672328823072011-01-18T20:00:00.003-06:002011-01-18T20:19:13.695-06:00I always say...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNGbZ95SwaVTVqhOPQqXOqh899EfvxO1pj9spM69_s_J6ytDGn3PBIOgGmBP8CT5xRnUvY7bpos4Zb9gPbYe_EE7UOYpkfUsR7icoqpW2Gf7j69LtVg9G-PZXToF7R_bihLWhkl3wGy7Fj/s1600/upcloseandpersonal.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNGbZ95SwaVTVqhOPQqXOqh899EfvxO1pj9spM69_s_J6ytDGn3PBIOgGmBP8CT5xRnUvY7bpos4Zb9gPbYe_EE7UOYpkfUsR7icoqpW2Gf7j69LtVg9G-PZXToF7R_bihLWhkl3wGy7Fj/s320/upcloseandpersonal.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563715644230910626" /></a><br />I always promise myself that I'm gonna do better, I'm gonna be more diligent about my <br />blog...<br /><br />But in reality, my hair has been the furthest thing from my mind...and it dawned on me, that's the reason I got sisterlocks in the first place.<br /><br />I am a single mother of a 3 year old...I am student teaching this spring semester, and I have a part time tutoring job to make the ends come a little close together...on top of all that, I am taking 11 hours at a junior college to fulfill my gen ed requirements before I can graduate in May. I have to find time to sleep, which means I don't have time figuring out what to do with my hair. <br /><br />Time flies so fast and meshes together so much that when I see a little bit of dandruff, I have to realize that it HAS been 2 weeks since I last washed my hair...and that I need to put that on my ever growing to-do list.<br /><br />I am grateful that I had the foresight to make such a decision. I remember thinking to myself, that by the time I start student teaching, my hair will be at least presentable. But that's the least of my concerns, hell, I like the fact that I can spend 30 min tops on my morning routine, from finding something to wear, showering, and getting out of the door. A couple spritzs of water on my hair, a hair clip a couple bobby pins and I have a cute "messy" up do in less than 5 mins.<br /><br />When I do want a different look (and that's mostly on the weekends), I am still able to be funky and versatile, something I wouldn't have been in my relaxer days. It was either curl it, slightly bump it, or wear a ponytail...and depending on when my hair was "permed" determines how much work went into those three options (some times I may have had to put some jam in my hair and tie it *tight* over night to lay down some of those edges) LOL.<br /><br />Now, please. My edges excite me, for almost every other month I see another "baby loc" that I can start. Most of the women in my family have receding hair lines on the sides only and for years I just knew I was down that path. I had very little hair and obvious bald patches on the sides of my head, which I thought was genetic. Since SL, those areas have significantly improved, with no attention to it. I don't oil my scalp, I don't condition, nothin...wash, braid, braidout, or curl...every two weeks.<br /><br />I'm excited for the years to come...when my hair will really look like locks and have hang time. But until that time comes, I'll still live in the moment and enjoy all the moments NOT doing my hair and focusing on other things...Beautifully Made!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17261488816415328474noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348797363914709351.post-86718084417929960362010-12-19T21:25:00.003-06:002010-12-19T21:47:46.904-06:00I MADE IT! My ONE YEAR LOCAVERSARY!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv5jVW8n37B-fpYPmuehz8hzR3hkJnd4wtF8A4b2ZSAqEAYVFAYs-VXnoV2E9EIErvx57EZWjEHeI9j3bwZAx7bGr_Vc2Z_a6BnolveVKT-XxjkdZ_g3U6qBh1587sP1O52nJrMX8lglEt/s1600/2010-11-16+00.56.55.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv5jVW8n37B-fpYPmuehz8hzR3hkJnd4wtF8A4b2ZSAqEAYVFAYs-VXnoV2E9EIErvx57EZWjEHeI9j3bwZAx7bGr_Vc2Z_a6BnolveVKT-XxjkdZ_g3U6qBh1587sP1O52nJrMX8lglEt/s320/2010-11-16+00.56.55.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552606128936970050" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiOCPOMEv5sTMAlfwh8itrtlrHR44gsTHtJnEc2GFoSnTu50kB87bEGnYTDWuj0YKeeTHoln5iBAv7F7wUv4IOm29WaMGBp6BXlmVic-drnuEnJay5L-Z2I7BJHOkF8qLW_pfTHpLJt7Ht/s1600/2010-10-28+21.29.53.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiOCPOMEv5sTMAlfwh8itrtlrHR44gsTHtJnEc2GFoSnTu50kB87bEGnYTDWuj0YKeeTHoln5iBAv7F7wUv4IOm29WaMGBp6BXlmVic-drnuEnJay5L-Z2I7BJHOkF8qLW_pfTHpLJt7Ht/s320/2010-10-28+21.29.53.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552606121529752034" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNXz5A6EwMkm4ifJbrJlTXHJfV0UNUN3rwcTjwUlRSnoVBhzFi1vfa1vPthBGIxn1eCSbUF4odPZMd4XMwwk2jQAl4G7Xo80yA_3HG8vT8alHmJdATKq3wopd8y4pTY1i49tDZfP30i1ZD/s1600/154585_10150103602816281_196696131280_7680828_3882977_n.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNXz5A6EwMkm4ifJbrJlTXHJfV0UNUN3rwcTjwUlRSnoVBhzFi1vfa1vPthBGIxn1eCSbUF4odPZMd4XMwwk2jQAl4G7Xo80yA_3HG8vT8alHmJdATKq3wopd8y4pTY1i49tDZfP30i1ZD/s320/154585_10150103602816281_196696131280_7680828_3882977_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552606118169877010" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"></span><br />I thought I would never make it...<br />December 11th marked the completion of my SL installation...and my ONE year locaversary.<br /><br />I must say, that I love my locks more than I did six months ago, and as I sit completing my re-ti, I am seeing for myself the changes that have occurred.<br /><br />My hair is not completely locked. The back lower half is about 90% locked, the middle and top is no where close yet. Those locks in the back have sealed and have contracted...I think its quite funny because that was the section that was always getting wet in the shower. I was so paranoid about getting my hair wet and most times have no choice in that part of my hair...so I'm not sure if that section would have locked on its own at this rate, or if the consistent water contributed to it.<br /><br />I have noticed crazy growth, but my hair grew like weeds when I had a relaxer as well, so I halfway expected it. My texture is so much more prettier now that I have SL. Its funny how the creamy crack addicted women in my circle and family say things like, "it looks so good on you, I could never do it..you had good hair before you went natural...you have that good grade of hair...". I want to scream to them that they have the same good hair, and that cuck a bug hair that they complain about is the exact texture of hair I sometimes wish I had because my hair would have been locked by now. LOL<br /><br />I have, most recently, began to lightly oil my scalp with olive oil. Mostly because the winter has hit Chicago and the weather is cold and dry outside and warm and dry inside my apartment. I have noticed more of a bounce with the olive oil and less of a need to do a water spritz every day...maybe its because I oil it while its still damp right after a shampoo.<br /><br />I am still using the Suave Clarifying shampoo that I had been using since I was about 3 months SL...its not broke, so why fix it? I really would like to try some new stuff, but I am so paranoid that I will mess my hair up, I'm just sticking to it.<br /><br />I have found a new hairstyle! Since I am still braiding and banding, I figured I may as well take my time doing the braids and rock a braidout. I must admit, that its my favorite hair style right now. I put tiny braids all over my head, which not only makes the crinkles look better after my hair has dried but, I can reach more of my scalp while washing, AND I can rock the braids for a couple of days to ensure my hair has dried (and I don't look completely Ceily-like with neat braids in).<br /><br />I can't wait to get a little length on me. I have grown tired of the perm rod set...I have sooo much hair I completed hated pull all those damn perm rods in my hair. I think I'll wear a braidout for a while until I can get some length on me to try the pipe cleaners curl set. <br /><br />All in all, I love my hair. Often times I wonder why I hadn't went natural before hand. So many people say that "that (your SL's) are you" or "you became you when you went natural". I will agree and say that who I am now is a reflection of my hair...because at the time I got SL, I decided that me being me would be good enough for the world. My hair marks the journey of me loving me...no holds barred, no additives, and no explanations...<br /><br />Here's to many more years....Beautifully Made!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17261488816415328474noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348797363914709351.post-38931571407410728612010-08-20T01:45:00.004-05:002010-08-20T22:07:20.705-05:00New discoveries....<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIru7eqXh0WLH9wo9k4S5o54V5Y8y-boeDsxJwVjhBWa7nA1orDieHNyglF5EyGHviCnjKyksMArzeoZJZDM2MK_MiAMXOWyDXGLYqxG9xccKGRSLyA1mK33nCAM5HeqJMoY2yGO4BP7Uj/s1600/GPHBE-0001-2T.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 238px; height: 250px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIru7eqXh0WLH9wo9k4S5o54V5Y8y-boeDsxJwVjhBWa7nA1orDieHNyglF5EyGHviCnjKyksMArzeoZJZDM2MK_MiAMXOWyDXGLYqxG9xccKGRSLyA1mK33nCAM5HeqJMoY2yGO4BP7Uj/s320/GPHBE-0001-2T.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5507694375890574210" /></a><br />Hello, ALL<br /><br />Sooo, I know the last time I was on here I was ranting and raving about not liking my SL and all of the issues, etc. Well, this post won't be like that, although I still am learning to like my SL more each day.<br /><br />As a DIYer, I am loving the control I once again have over my hair. I notice the changes more and I am more aware of how to fix things. I've taken care of my hair for years before and I don't see how this experience would be any different.<br /><br />I do loathe washing my hair....not because I don't like clean hair, but because I hate braiding and banding. I seriously don't think my hair gets "clean" but I did wash my hair without doing so and I got a little slippage going on...but it was well worth it.<br /><br />So last night when I washed my hair, I braided and banded with little "balls". I know, I know, you're probably like, what is that? I attached a picture for all those that know the correct name of them LOL. This was soo much easier! No rubber bands to cut (I cut a lock off once trying to get a rubber band out) and no clips to come apart.<br /><br />My wash time was reduced and I don't mind it that much anymore.<br /><br />Next, task is to find a light moisturizer that also has a nice smell. I've been outside a lot this summer enjoying the weather and I do not like the way my hair smells. It's been 8 months and I haven't put anything in my hair except water....I think its time!Beautifully Made!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17261488816415328474noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348797363914709351.post-30029971155139894802010-07-25T09:19:00.005-05:002010-07-25T10:11:39.774-05:00It's been a looonnng time...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy0SEH3PCkHsIdkL2dEc2Ta3TJHc0Ga9-1adiwMQ3543IUKYkK2mYVAFZ9jhc05Shywhojs_hcGhYTlDMAOKNva2Pf5Dj-MP6rOjc7S-suClBqF2OveOljg1GdxhcxrBaoh2VrbDM84YVd/s1600/IMG_0131.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy0SEH3PCkHsIdkL2dEc2Ta3TJHc0Ga9-1adiwMQ3543IUKYkK2mYVAFZ9jhc05Shywhojs_hcGhYTlDMAOKNva2Pf5Dj-MP6rOjc7S-suClBqF2OveOljg1GdxhcxrBaoh2VrbDM84YVd/s320/IMG_0131.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5497861478532980482" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJoH7P-oLf23zuMTDDYODrYRayEuGDKZY5GQy_MkUiu6vk5Oxs8OLNfxTU2qzNOWyLGSWgoNEpuvcQfbt7cnsfMiNQxW8A6X8CTE1VXeBuLXSSTAAqykFMzl48N6zlBhkc7i8SfZUtA60G/s1600/IMAG0177.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJoH7P-oLf23zuMTDDYODrYRayEuGDKZY5GQy_MkUiu6vk5Oxs8OLNfxTU2qzNOWyLGSWgoNEpuvcQfbt7cnsfMiNQxW8A6X8CTE1VXeBuLXSSTAAqykFMzl48N6zlBhkc7i8SfZUtA60G/s320/IMAG0177.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5497861470571737682" /></a><br />I know, I know. It's been over three months since my last post. And honestly, I always want to sit down and gather my thoughts but there is always something else that I need to do. Life hasn't stopped getting busier, so this Sunday morning, when I would normally be at church (my Pastor is on vacation), before I sit down to write my three papers that are due before 9 am tomorrow, I decided to write on my blog.<br /><br />My Sisterlocks(or whatever they are)....<br /><br />So a lot and nothing has been happening with my hair. It is growing like crazy, I mean, I haven't measured or anything but I'm close to about 7 inches (or more) at the longest strand. I had a TWA when I started of about 2.5 inches, so it is growing. My hair had, however, grown at a stupid (LOL) rate when I had a relaxer, so I didn't expect anything less now that it is locking.<br /><br />I have a love/hate relationship with my hair. I do almost nothing with it. 90% of the time its just freestyle with a headband...I think that I have become addicted to headbands to deflect from the massive frizzies I sometimes have. Lately, I have been setting them on perm rods, but that is so time consuming, so that really only happens when I have spare time.<br /><br />I love the fact that I don't worry about my hair when I wake up in the morning. Getting ready for work and most times getting only 3-4 hours of sleep a night, doesn't lend much time for me to be primping my hair. I love that I was able to go to a water park with my baby and enjoy and not worry about water splashing on my hair (I was able to focus all my attention on her hair). I love the "POTENTIAL" it has of looking good...<br /><br />But I hate my hair sometimes. Honestly, sometimes I wonder if this was the right decision. And while I don't write on my blog, I read a lot of other ones and I almost NEVER see women who have "sisterlocks" contemplate their decision. The ones I do come across are those who have taken down their locks...but I feel like sometimes people are faking the funk. I dunno, maybe its me, but can you like something ALL the time?<br /><br />People have told me that I look way different with locks than I did with relaxed hair. Most of my family tells me they miss my "beautiful" hair. And to be honest, I did have nice relaxed hair. It was thick and bouncy and almost void of a relaxer, seeing as though I got one every 8-9 weeks and it was a kiddie perm. I wanted my daughter, who has GORGEOUS natural hair to know that her hair is beautiful just the way it is, and the only way I wanted to be able to show her that is by example.<br /><br />Which leads me to my issues....<br /><br />Sisterlocks are not no-maintenance....and I have 550+ in my head. Economic circumstances arose and I couldn't afford the $75+ cost to retighten, nor could I afford the 8+ hours it took to get them done. I am a mother of a toddler with a full time job and a full time student in a fast track program, with my own business and most recently Chair of a national organization, I just didn't have the time (or the money). So I had to make the choice to retighten my own hair with (GASP) a nappylock tool.<br /><br />OK, so a certified consultant that I chop it up with from time to time, tells me that if I maintain my own hair, without taking the class, I don't have sisterlocks. That really bothered me...not because I care whether or not people know I have SISTERLOCKS, cuz truth be told, not many people know what they are anyway...but because this "sister" felt the need to make me "separate" because I choose to maintain my own hair. <br /><br />Maybe I'm slow, but to me, the whole premise behind being natural is loving who you are freely, not being bound to the relaxer, and being on the road to healthy hair. I have "maintained" my hair for years. I went to the salon every 8 weeks, and that was to Hair Cuttery to get my hair layered and cut (into whatever I was feeling like) by a (GASP again) white woman. I rarely applied heat to my head...I would wash, wrap, airdry (with a scarf), take my hair down the next day and go. So I never spent time in a beauty shop, nor did I wear weaves. So hearingg this statement made me go "Seriously, are you serious?"<br /><br />Then I thought about the court case involving Sisterlocks and Nappylocks and I read more on it, and found myself agreeing with the courts and Nappylocks. I get the whole thing about Sisterlocks being a brand, etc...but if you really cared about wanting all "sisters" to enjoy this new "lifestyle" of freedom, wouldn't you make it affordable?<br /><br />I'm getting my teaching certification and have a goal of chartering a school for African American kids that focus on reading excellence and interdisciplinary curriculums. I was fortunate to have a great education and I want ALL my babies (especially in urban) areas to have the same opportunities I did...now, saying that, what would I look like charging a crazy tuition to my school when that's my premise? Just doesn't add up right?<br /><br />These are my opinions, so pple, please don't get all uptight, but some of these "sisterlocked" sisters are perpetuatingg the same attitude they try to claim Europeans placed on blacks...the "if you're not like me authentically, then you're steps below me". Really? so beacause I use a nappylock tool on my "sisterlocks", I don't have them? OK, I don't. I am who I am REGARDLESS of what is on the top of my head, I don't need a label to define who I am. <br /><br />I'm a natural headed sista who decided to use a method that allowed for me to have small dreads.<br /><br />Which leads me to this whole "parting" etc. So, since I have been a DIYer (for the past 2.5 retightenings, I've noticed some things...the front of my hair does not have straight lines. I don't have a center part, and about 80% of the parts in the front of my hair are on a slant. Now, I'm meticulous. I mean, the way I look at it, I paid money for an install and subsequent retightenings, I may as well keep up my investment. It literally, takes me about a week to do my hair. I take my time and I use a mirror for the front of my hair, so I'm sure about these crooked, slanted parts. Now, sure, I was pissed in the beginning, but then I'm like, well, if a "parting" grid and all that mess defined my hair, then I'm falling in the same trap as some of these other ladies. Sure, it may become an issue in the future when my hair matures and I may want to style it a certain way, but right now its not. It is noticeable when I want to go and flat twist the front of my hair and there are no parts that are straight back, but I did that once in 7 months, so...whatever.<br /><br />That's why I love Nacole's youtube channel so much (nriccaboni). She is honest. She is funny and she's real. <br /><br /><strong><strong>This was an extra long post, maybe I should blog more often.<br /><br />But in regards to my hair....Its coming along. the bottom two rows of my hair are sealed...that was interesting seeing as though those are the ones that get wet the most (almost every day in the shower). Going toward the back middle, I have a ton of slippage. It seems the texture there is a big more of a loose wave, and I'm wondering if its from the new sleep position I have now that the little one is back in bed with me (sleeping on my back). My sides and top middle are all coming along as well, most have buds and others have condensed and matted at the end but not formed that "cylinder". And the front is still in the pattern. Some of the extra tiny ones (that should be combined, since my parts are off anyway) always require repair after washing, but its cool. <br /><br />I was frustrated last week and washed my hair without braiding and banding. I stopped using the SL shampoo a minute ago...I HATED the way it left my hair looking and feeling and the way my scalp was sooooo flaky. Since then, I've only used the Suave clarifying shampoo and nothing else...no EO or mixtures or any other moisturizers and honestly, I think its time...I've been reading that the SL moisture treatment is good, but others have recommended other things too.<br /><br />All in all, I'm satisfied. I see the potential of my hair and I'm being patient. I told my aunt in early June, I'll give it one more year. So, June 2011 will determine how I feel and what I will do. I will have finished school and embarking into new chapters in my life that involve me reaching my goals. If I'm still feeling this way a year from now, I'll just cut them off and wear my TWA....</strong></strong>Beautifully Made!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17261488816415328474noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348797363914709351.post-45940116917917648872010-04-13T00:08:00.003-05:002010-04-13T00:22:05.831-05:00I'm BACK!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGusB34449AkPbe7BwPZJHZ7hgjDUz3pK0FUhwKaqzUGmyOXluBS0EEziCghA8RCeM_2ExZNhRKPCci_hiPYXRGhvh0i5ppVoQ2SUuiiJkaIL8jh9c5DJWS00tVj5-CmKMcxNfj6nkuAWb/s1600/easter.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 264px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGusB34449AkPbe7BwPZJHZ7hgjDUz3pK0FUhwKaqzUGmyOXluBS0EEziCghA8RCeM_2ExZNhRKPCci_hiPYXRGhvh0i5ppVoQ2SUuiiJkaIL8jh9c5DJWS00tVj5-CmKMcxNfj6nkuAWb/s320/easter.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459488023851841410" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCPle0yDn1SSCp22QEo03wcOBzNjx-WepRXtsZ74q45utSr41bogrne0J2iDREJaWwu09Cu6H9qM6W5HFu5Cty0J7LxWwTX4c9fUNKYFi3otS5TuC3UcWyFg_eb-dh6G9da_nOGVrAlioJ/s1600/4month.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCPle0yDn1SSCp22QEo03wcOBzNjx-WepRXtsZ74q45utSr41bogrne0J2iDREJaWwu09Cu6H9qM6W5HFu5Cty0J7LxWwTX4c9fUNKYFi3otS5TuC3UcWyFg_eb-dh6G9da_nOGVrAlioJ/s320/4month.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459488016061173378" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:verdana;">My consultant got on me about not posting on my blog. </span> <span style="font-family:verdana;">Reality is, I'm on blogspot a lot, just reading everyone else's blog and never sit down and write my own.</span> <span style="font-family:verdana;">I think i was reluctant to write because I felt like my hair wasn't doing anything. That, plus the family moved, I'm still working and going to school, and trying to establish new business ventures, the least of my worries was my hair. Therefore, SL couldn't have come at a better time!</span> <span style="font-family:verdana;">In the last four months, I have noticed some things:</span> <span style="font-family:verdana;">1) I can get dressed much quicker now that I don't have to worry how my hair looks.</span> <span style="font-family:verdana;">2) I am now in love with accessories. </span> <span style="font-family:verdana;">3) My hair still grows at the crazy rapid rate it always has.</span> <span style="font-family:verdana;">4) My locks are further along than I thought.</span> <span style="font-family:verdana;">5) Natural hair has increased my self awareness....even when I had my afro, I loved the way I felt, free....different.</span> <span style="font-family:verdana;">6) I love for him to grab my hair! (what are these weaved ladies thinking?)</span> <span style="font-family:verdana;">7) I HATE the SL starter shampoo!</span> <span style="font-family:verdana;">I am sure that there are many more to this list, but I have a new love for my locks. I went thru a couple weeks where I was really regretting my decision, feeling like my hair looked like a mess of frizziness, but after I bit the bullet and curled my hair (I always thought it was too short to curl) I really like my SL now. I'm almost halfway to my mid year and I'm loving it.</span> <span style="font-family:verdana;">Now...time to get these permed ends cut. LOL</span></span>Beautifully Made!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17261488816415328474noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348797363914709351.post-3089934462115340642010-01-21T17:42:00.003-06:002010-01-21T17:51:51.282-06:00SPRINGY LOCKS??<span style="font-weight: bold;">I am not really sure what that means, but as I played with my hair (now I see why so many "white" girls twirled their hair), I noticed this springy action in my locks. And not just one, but like most of them have this going on. <br /><br />I think that its a good sign. I have been noticing the changes in my hair lately, its getting more hard to the touch. I am just amazed at what happens when your hair is just left alone.<br /><br />I don't have dandruff or itchiness anymore. I washed my hair at the two week mark (since my last re-tightening) and honestly, it really wasn't itchy or dirty, I just knew that with my schedule, I wouldn't have any other time to wash it. That braiding and banding (and clipping) business takes me like 2 hours!<br /><br />Ever since I stopped diluting the shampoos, I feel like my hair is getting more clean and I see the obvious difference, I don't have flakes. I have noticed, ironically, that I have severe dryness the morning after the wash, but I know that that is a result of the starter shampoo. It really dries out my hair, so I just take a bit of ACV on a q-tip and place in that area, to at least get something on it. I have enough left for another shampoo, so I guess I'll have to buy some more (or just stick with my Suave Clarifying Shampoo!) I'll see what the wonderful KiKi says in a couple weeks.<br /><br />I am loving my hair. Like seriously. I am loving the fact that I just get up and go and I am anxious for what the future holds. Time really does fly. You don't really notice how quick four weeks go buy until you look up and you have another re-tightening session. I'm thankful to God that He's chosen this path for me.<br /><br />Till next time....<br /><br />Marlena<br /></span>Beautifully Made!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17261488816415328474noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348797363914709351.post-52185921700556237462010-01-20T23:00:00.001-06:002010-01-20T23:02:58.900-06:00It's been a while...I have been so busy with home and school and work that I just haven't had time to sit and blog.<br /><br />There really isn't much to discuss....my hair is just doing its thing I guess. Those edges just won't stay put at all, so I have some (like 3) that have unraveled, but that's cool.<br /><br />In some ways I wish my hair was longer so that I can do more than just freestyle with it. But then again, over manipulation isn't good either so I think that's ok.<br /><br />Gotta run now...the baby is whining....don't know why kids just won't go to sleep when they're sleepy LOLBeautifully Made!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17261488816415328474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348797363914709351.post-33975716240094676692010-01-08T13:35:00.006-06:002010-01-08T15:06:33.000-06:00BEFORE AND AFTER MY 1ST RE-TIGHT<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7PZNwFZXzNK1a3d5LUYIwnOFXSL_xidMwUWz512GVyU2PQ22lnRgJls-pQpBJN43tuJa7gcZ-FQFYWX6W9iMbELZZdPkr7BO7J0BFT3k2WbUN8WvNxSnIPukiBA1eCuOJG_p4QglcnVDQ/s1600-h/IMAG0044.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7PZNwFZXzNK1a3d5LUYIwnOFXSL_xidMwUWz512GVyU2PQ22lnRgJls-pQpBJN43tuJa7gcZ-FQFYWX6W9iMbELZZdPkr7BO7J0BFT3k2WbUN8WvNxSnIPukiBA1eCuOJG_p4QglcnVDQ/s320/IMAG0044.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424474271723730370" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI38Rb4SQcMwUo0r4qSQuOJphg1QeyTqe6X_EMJYAa8nPwjza3vXPZ7xDaCNlpJD5MsvzRtJ1DKGZBiDc2ZaYS2if1MRurdmoXTLWSke_ERm3UfSSm9m-kEGJk_wKzc6jmxAqVJ4uQ_XBm/s1600-h/IMAG0043.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI38Rb4SQcMwUo0r4qSQuOJphg1QeyTqe6X_EMJYAa8nPwjza3vXPZ7xDaCNlpJD5MsvzRtJ1DKGZBiDc2ZaYS2if1MRurdmoXTLWSke_ERm3UfSSm9m-kEGJk_wKzc6jmxAqVJ4uQ_XBm/s320/IMAG0043.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424474267225346258" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ7hPBHj8sqJ9GPBBFrzAEEb-BNhMVWkT86e4c4wNiUC2n2niJBQtIz7rW2tk4ooq_gWQ3053DelEAfQvi6-YmJMjVtnG2JHDmTu9VPc8w1cTKIVgoxqkOkJAACLJ0mz1dx1Y73PJSWi98/s1600-h/IMAG0041.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ7hPBHj8sqJ9GPBBFrzAEEb-BNhMVWkT86e4c4wNiUC2n2niJBQtIz7rW2tk4ooq_gWQ3053DelEAfQvi6-YmJMjVtnG2JHDmTu9VPc8w1cTKIVgoxqkOkJAACLJ0mz1dx1Y73PJSWi98/s320/IMAG0041.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424474259037125074" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >School and work and home has been kicking my butt. Not to mention the cold I can't get rid of (and I know its cuz I need to rest)...which has left me too tired some days to blog. I have been wanting to provide updates for a while, but time just didn't allow me to, until now. </span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >The office is empty and quiet and I don't want to do any work right now. Its freaking cold outside (here in Chicago) and the snow is just taking over. I would have just stayed in bed, but...maybe I should have.</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >So...I'm officially a month locked now! I got my re-tightening on the 2nd, a couple days shy of my official date of the 4th.</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >I love not doing anything to my hair, no styling, curling, nothing. My hair is so short that freestyle looks good. I contemplated using some perm rods or curlers, but then it would look even shorter, and that's not cute. I am getting like the frizzy ends, so maybe I'll try something out when I wash next week.</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >I am not experiencing any itchiness or anything...the last time I shampooed, which was right before my re tightening, I didn't dilute the shampoos that much...maybe not even 2 parts shampoo, 1 part water. I just put a little water in and shampooed. It truely made a difference, because now, seven days later, I still don't feel any itchiness.</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >One thing I'm experiencing is flakes near my front hairline. I remember reading a blog in which a lady was experiencing the same thing and it was a result of the face lotion that she was using. Since reading that I make sure that the satin bonnet is still on my head when I put my face lotion on, so that it's nowhere near my hairline, but I seem to still be getting a lot of flakes in that area that are like intermingling with my locks. (dandruff being embedded in the lock). Don't know what else to do but spot clean with acv....I won't wash till another week from now, so we shall see how it goes.</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >Other than my hair...I absolutely dislike my job. I am content in where God has me, yet I know that He has greater things to come. I have 11 months until my student teaching begins, so I'm just getting all my ducks in a row until then.</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >We really want to move...we like where we live, but its so expensive. I really want a new car and we need to buy another car for the household. I know that once school is in order and my career changes, these types of decisions will be pretty easy, but now....(sigh). I would really like to just quit where I am and focus on my business, but I can't do that either working 9 to 6 and on saturdays.</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >I just know that God is going to work it all out.....</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >Till nex</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc08wLyj3RxEXO0QEkRJK5VuomYO36z8TwcLyL8aBoEzvJ1xd8g_6Rr47v1pKkYIxsMmZVb-rWr4KNGpiNAMUmwq9TMjobRpS16V8S-yd9wcJjRNc-3Ka1rI_AHmEI0QrCIg9eZ2AFawPc/s1600-h/IMAG0051.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc08wLyj3RxEXO0QEkRJK5VuomYO36z8TwcLyL8aBoEzvJ1xd8g_6Rr47v1pKkYIxsMmZVb-rWr4KNGpiNAMUmwq9TMjobRpS16V8S-yd9wcJjRNc-3Ka1rI_AHmEI0QrCIg9eZ2AFawPc/s320/IMAG0051.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424474280626247362" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >t time ppl!</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZQ7p4mECW-xa_Maka0GTk4inBzc-YpuGPiKHfbkx2wkxUcSubqzY0I-Kz8YBt9P_i2BUkhBC_bJRFCGDh9R5fKEf6ZqUwShj4j_-MQwdK5vfvofDfktcLnLqaNX-Li9L99WB2RNw4Hbi/s1600-h/IMAG0053.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZQ7p4mECW-xa_Maka0GTk4inBzc-YpuGPiKHfbkx2wkxUcSubqzY0I-Kz8YBt9P_i2BUkhBC_bJRFCGDh9R5fKEf6ZqUwShj4j_-MQwdK5vfvofDfktcLnLqaNX-Li9L99WB2RNw4Hbi/s320/IMAG0053.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424474286188562770" border="0" /></a>Beautifully Made!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17261488816415328474noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348797363914709351.post-7311574606389245592009-12-28T12:02:00.003-06:002009-12-28T12:28:24.219-06:00Still here!<span style="font-weight: bold;">Nothing much has happened in the last week or so....which means I'm still here and still locked!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">I have gotten a lot of compliments on my hair, but I know that ppl think that they are just little braids. I was sooo happy when at my uncle's house for Christmas, a young lady (my cousin's girlfriend) said.."oh, that's so cute! You and your daughter have sisterlocks!" </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Well, my daughter doesn't...she had small two strand twists all over her head, but it was nice for someone to finally compliment me on my hair and actually know what they are. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">I can't wait for my retightning. My consultant, Kiki of Natural and Free, LLC (www.naturalandfree.com) is doing AWESOME! She is booked like every weekend, so I am going to have to schedule my retightnings like six months out!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">I am anxious for it (my retightning) because I have a lot of questions...I don't style my hair at all, its so short that I just freestyle, but I definitely tell the difference in the two textures in my hair that KiKi was telling me about. The front seems to have unraveled, yet the back and the sides have "locks" that are still in place. I don't know if this is attributed to the consistent flakes in the front of my hair, which leads me to scratching and brushing my hair with my hands and fingers to get the flakes out. I will say that the flakes have calmed down a bit, but not much. The itchiness has subsided, but the flakes remain. (sigh)</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">I do have some slippage and those that have come completely undone in the back of my nape area, but I know that that is due to my bonnet not reaching the back of my hair and those baby's being wet while I'm in the shower. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">I have some stray hairs just growing in my hair, mainly at the top, but KiKi said that's normal. I do realize that the hair at the top of my hair, from the middle to the front hairline is going to be the most difficult to lock. I feel like it's going to just unravel and try to do its own thing all the time. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">I must admit, these four weeks went by so fast...a lot quicker than the three weeks in between my consultation and my initial install. I have a feeling that the next couple of months will go by pretty fast as well. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">I'm looking forward to the NEW YEAR and all the things that it bring! 2010 will be the beginning of the rest of my life! New hair, new attitude, new and exciting things on the horizon!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Till next time!</span>Beautifully Made!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17261488816415328474noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348797363914709351.post-60780991195211666402009-12-17T13:04:00.003-06:002009-12-17T13:20:12.970-06:00I WASHED MY HAIR!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisr1vx7BZHpjgBnZoK_MbiXDs4N1HNyMHuPhF2InJyoYJbna3kSkV9-Dx5qE49DaxC8RykwoL1rqrU_g1d-Abq8ZarnoMxkOxAyDIN1LRn0P8O5P8o3rtWKeacSwNVLhTbzirh9A58r3-H/s1600-h/IMAG0016.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisr1vx7BZHpjgBnZoK_MbiXDs4N1HNyMHuPhF2InJyoYJbna3kSkV9-Dx5qE49DaxC8RykwoL1rqrU_g1d-Abq8ZarnoMxkOxAyDIN1LRn0P8O5P8o3rtWKeacSwNVLhTbzirh9A58r3-H/s320/IMAG0016.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5416287027332776146" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigtjIVrSehaTo0b8-3XdZAb2rTcvhouSD_TGD3LlGV_SwYontbSr7UeQRS6UwDt72BP9sZq3-B4N7ZejPP3XFFI18-Zp44OuH1fzXYllypPrBXsip59u-6dN64gouIlE1CBMhIET5FqSSk/s1600-h/IMAG0015.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigtjIVrSehaTo0b8-3XdZAb2rTcvhouSD_TGD3LlGV_SwYontbSr7UeQRS6UwDt72BP9sZq3-B4N7ZejPP3XFFI18-Zp44OuH1fzXYllypPrBXsip59u-6dN64gouIlE1CBMhIET5FqSSk/s320/IMAG0015.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5416287022251472818" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >Sisterlocks are not only teaching me to love me wholly, but I'm learning a thing or two about patience....</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >My scalp is very itchy and flaky..and I don't think its from the lack of oil because I haven't "oiled" my hair or scalp in months prior...but I've always had dandruff.</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >Before SLs when I had dandruff, I just washed my hair...and that was about every 4 or five days....so...going from the 4th to now (yesterday) was torture!</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >I couldn't stop scratching, and flakes kept appearing, even after the acv (which was a temporary fix).</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >So, last night I decided to wash my hair....</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >It took me an HOUR and FIFTEEN minutes just to braid (twist in my case since my hair is so short) and band and clip. Trying ever so gently not to mess anything up...not to be too rough...trying not to mess up my little babies...</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >I diluted the shampoo and spritz my hair and rinsed, rinsed, rinsed...and today, I've come to these conclusions...</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >1) I diluted the shampoo too much cuz my scalp doesn't look or feel clean at all.</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >2) I twisted too tight, didn't get shampoo into the sections, just on top</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >3) I think I have slippage in the middle back of my hair and the front, but none in the back</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >4) A lot of my ends seemed to unravel</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >Hmm....I don't think I zig zagged enough....i think I was being so careful that all I did was put some water on my hair and not wash really.</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >I did separate the locks and let them air dry. I awoke this morning to still finding flakes....I have huge flakes only in the top and sides of my hair, not really in the back....I just had to shake and go.</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >Hopefully things get better.... Any suggestions??</span>Beautifully Made!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17261488816415328474noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348797363914709351.post-45207569828455395222009-12-15T10:21:00.003-06:002009-12-15T10:29:18.917-06:00Loving my SLs and my NEW EARRINGS!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDEJzSBPNdaO7KIFyrA7WOTKb-oRARBjOAuQCduuaN0qVkhBum34wnYwbAmg6OuUii3vI8XqKGzFm7AgapKxpgNr6a92NoLB08hnF_zoLIO5CsaCGBxsr0eQ1TbZX-ZvF5VEo8yO73uVhS/s1600-h/IMAG0024.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDEJzSBPNdaO7KIFyrA7WOTKb-oRARBjOAuQCduuaN0qVkhBum34wnYwbAmg6OuUii3vI8XqKGzFm7AgapKxpgNr6a92NoLB08hnF_zoLIO5CsaCGBxsr0eQ1TbZX-ZvF5VEo8yO73uVhS/s320/IMAG0024.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415500853708819778" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">So...</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Today was another beautiful day of fluff and go!</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;">I just had to wear my earrings from CaiTai today (http://www.etsy.com/shop/BuyCaTai)! They are absolutely gorgemous!</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;">I usually have a ton of down time at work so a lot of my pics may be from there. Nothing really to report...I used some acv on my scalp and the itchies and dandruff have calmed down a bit. I'll be washing my hair on tomorrow and def posting pics of that.</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Till next time!</span>Beautifully Made!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17261488816415328474noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348797363914709351.post-31191360530358309262009-12-13T16:28:00.004-06:002009-12-13T16:54:23.138-06:001 week old (technically!)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtExl-nqB63nHzBCD7DHHSCXj2HWZulYBweMbPNhI3HZBw2_SFZd6QUFkCdfzuxJ4YZjgjM9rDandgRi36yun3k2-uYQXVqYbp5x19GxZZns-0iuP4mMOhMFqhwh3YrrUx_IvfDIgN8zvU/s1600-h/IMAG0020.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtExl-nqB63nHzBCD7DHHSCXj2HWZulYBweMbPNhI3HZBw2_SFZd6QUFkCdfzuxJ4YZjgjM9rDandgRi36yun3k2-uYQXVqYbp5x19GxZZns-0iuP4mMOhMFqhwh3YrrUx_IvfDIgN8zvU/s320/IMAG0020.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5414857665489030738" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Y2riGAafDyYpzkbwoouuQnOkIQ5jf1X_tzbrnvOL0DQhCsLW_ICIzS24aRF5eymXam9FXWGcznJmEfR8IzwFsQaPkuLinga93ivevnTxt4T7U4dH6I3nqKHwaSnp_4DS7_oqPZ-wD14L/s1600-h/IMAG0019.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Y2riGAafDyYpzkbwoouuQnOkIQ5jf1X_tzbrnvOL0DQhCsLW_ICIzS24aRF5eymXam9FXWGcznJmEfR8IzwFsQaPkuLinga93ivevnTxt4T7U4dH6I3nqKHwaSnp_4DS7_oqPZ-wD14L/s320/IMAG0019.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5414857660018982482" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">I've been living in some of my SLs for a week..others won't come to this milestone until Wednesday.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">But....I've loved every minute. I am a last minute type of girl...I wake up with just enough time to get dressed and head out of the door (I have a toddler that is allergic to sleep!). Since I've been locked, I actually have about 5 mins to spare...and that's a lot in my world!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Below are some pics of me today. I have a couple locks that are just doing their thang and sticking up all whicha way. But that's cool.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">I got a lot of compliments today....a lot of "ooh I like your hair" But i know that many thought they were tiny braids...I didn't say anything different...it was family, so they'll see the transformation occur before their eyes.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">OMG...what am I gonna do about the itchiness and the dandruff. I'm suppossed to wash my hair this weekend, but i don't know if I can last that long. Like, if my hands are in my hair now, its to scratch my scalp and try to get these dandruff out. I stopped oiling my scalp when I did the big chop because it felt like I had worms crawling on/in my scalp with the thickness of my hair....BUT I did wash my hair like every 3 0r 4 days...whenever it started to itch, I washed it...so I'm going a lil nuts over here!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">But, besides that, I'm still liking them. I like them short....i'm appreciating the texture more. I don't feel compelled to spiral rod or roll them cuz my hair isn't long enuf yet. My locs are getting those curly q's already and is looking like a puff of curls anyway, so I'm glad they are just being left alone and i'm freestyling for now.</span></span>Beautifully Made!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17261488816415328474noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348797363914709351.post-31953268190444274562009-12-11T02:51:00.004-06:002009-12-11T02:58:44.004-06:00INSTALL PICS!<span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >Each time I need to upload pics to the web, be it Facebook, or sending pics to family and friends, I can't find my USB cord.</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >Well, this time was no different!</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >So, I had to wait until my consultant posted the pics on her website so I can post them here! (u don't mind, do you? *wink*)</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >Here they are folks!</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgebcKALKq9DXCLqKXO4LQ7WpveirQ2rwvSqwduMOCQLDoeGCutmQSiygBmouBlp-Oo6uPEtCq9QW8XHA44m11Ru5UKQ5YhCapm81qV_qbQaibCk0j5awSWDY8To_I3EGG6KXwQ7yBMivZ1/s1600-h/sl5.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgebcKALKq9DXCLqKXO4LQ7WpveirQ2rwvSqwduMOCQLDoeGCutmQSiygBmouBlp-Oo6uPEtCq9QW8XHA44m11Ru5UKQ5YhCapm81qV_qbQaibCk0j5awSWDY8To_I3EGG6KXwQ7yBMivZ1/s320/sl5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413899984575080914" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfDi5T8JglVrW-FWqCJpF1QvAbkKbODjkh4vfB2qZqwFp1iAxk6DTHxODwB7QAH2hUhaHSupeOzkE7cK_NCqdcFb9m85aRZyPEZgikvBykelSSCAMwMXmfr2buYiAO55vhFsdzmF4QgiCQ/s1600-h/sl4.jpg"> </a> <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCGb_LxBUgpikF5OfMe498N9BAgH2Jx9HD968sVbLKae98zHkyc1k7N7utURcZS2NZFjVTSImWRc2_ZNKPEydWC6qxkRl0dXZrzwnLN3VHNrDROVC0rFs6s9jceCdB9UEIvnmJMtQzyEGe/s1600-h/sl3.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCGb_LxBUgpikF5OfMe498N9BAgH2Jx9HD968sVbLKae98zHkyc1k7N7utURcZS2NZFjVTSImWRc2_ZNKPEydWC6qxkRl0dXZrzwnLN3VHNrDROVC0rFs6s9jceCdB9UEIvnmJMtQzyEGe/s320/sl3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413899976424187730" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTu5c7fM9StStyu8on8AY0xWsXr8OXyVh3aNr3I-LDF172b-SuyyaUtuR52JUIxdv6Rk0a7dCd5zzOiluAzHW_u_X-wyjDUFAjdnptL34jKnMndlJOeFX9YbUdvWyrA9s7EyrLpuA92AWq/s1600-h/sl2.jpg"> </a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbRTBz6PxQ-XqzfjQDBBjm479APCGphofyITZ_kgEDt0DZpGfgv-Vddp6sbi4w2FUZoiLjI7KcMfYWIthXHwWQza32QApT0pbCIA3XSy59yMfAt4inCBGGf99IYy1NxTMyosG7LXYxzkMf/s1600-h/sl1.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbRTBz6PxQ-XqzfjQDBBjm479APCGphofyITZ_kgEDt0DZpGfgv-Vddp6sbi4w2FUZoiLjI7KcMfYWIthXHwWQza32QApT0pbCIA3XSy59yMfAt4inCBGGf99IYy1NxTMyosG7LXYxzkMf/s320/sl1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413899967408509394" border="0" /></a>Beautifully Made!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17261488816415328474noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348797363914709351.post-26128704011572355972009-12-10T16:40:00.006-06:002009-12-10T16:49:26.242-06:00I'M LOCKED DOWN!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZY4AaRbXm4bCvqvS5o_sz61kkaZnvRTqBZqWrAxHHCVuWsFD_moLyxwn7Dpikw51XKxqkdJF6vMEQoweyc7y-eQLZ_Cz9gIYWlhDZi6928-XU_fWQ15Jy47mHWI0HiO0rWaLv5-_yyz7U/s1600-h/IMAG0013.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZY4AaRbXm4bCvqvS5o_sz61kkaZnvRTqBZqWrAxHHCVuWsFD_moLyxwn7Dpikw51XKxqkdJF6vMEQoweyc7y-eQLZ_Cz9gIYWlhDZi6928-XU_fWQ15Jy47mHWI0HiO0rWaLv5-_yyz7U/s320/IMAG0013.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413742926285465138" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />YAAAYYYY!<br /><br />It felt so good to be able to wake up this morning and go! Especially with the cold weather that Chicago is having (2 degrees with winds of 30 mph), I was in love this morning.<br /><br />Normally, I would have a pic of me all dolled up, but this weather is nuts so what you see is me staying warm (hence the bare face and the sweat shirt!LOL)<br /><br />I know you're probably wondering what the specs are so...here goes! (I'll figure out how to have it on the side of my blog like most of the seasoned women, but that may be some time from now)<br /><br />SL Birthday: December 9th, 2009<br />Consultant: Mrs. Talley www.naturalandfree.com<br />Total Hours: 24.5 (over five days, my schedule is crazy)<br />Size: Small to small/medium in the crown<br />Locks: 600+ (I'll have a more accurate amount after my washing)<br /><br />I'm sooooo excited!<br /><br />Many thanks to KiKi...she was so patient with me and so knowledgeable and entertaining...couldn't have asked for a better experience.Beautifully Made!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17261488816415328474noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348797363914709351.post-12315224714497591392009-12-08T15:17:00.005-06:002009-12-10T02:29:25.531-06:00Still getting locked down...<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:verdana;">Sooo, my journey began on Friday, December 4th, 2009 at approx. 7 pm. At this time, I probably have over 550+ locks installed with an entire front section to go.<br /><br />My consultant (trainee), Mrs. K. Talley is a trooper, like for real! I live in Lombard IL and for the last four days (and counting...she's coming back to finish on Wednesday) she has traveled from INDIANA to service me!<br /><br />Can you imagine that!? I am so thankful for her... I knew at our consultation that I would chose her...her spirit is so warm, we talk and joke around like we've known each other for years. My family have welcomed her and I look forward to seeing her every month after this for a looooonnnnnnnnnnggggg time! I'm planning on scheduling my next re-tightenings for the next 6 months to a year once I have my follow-up!<br /><br />I haven't been able to fully "ROCK MY LOCKS" yet because I am sporting a wide headband...but I already can't keep my hands out of my hair...I can't stop looking at it and I can't wait to experience all the new phases it will be going thru.<br /><br />I told my dad I got Sisterlocked and he said "I thought you said you was gonna stay natural?" LOL Can't wait for him to see them develop too.<br /><br />Its been challenging over the last couple of days trying to explain not only Sisterlocks, but also locking in general to my white and mexican co-workers. I'll just let time show them.<br /><br />Why didn't I do this sooner!?<br /><br />(pics coming soon)<br /></span></span></span>Beautifully Made!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17261488816415328474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348797363914709351.post-26955214578273244972009-12-04T17:24:00.002-06:002009-12-04T17:30:11.438-06:00TOOOODDDDAAAAYYY!I have been so swamped at work that I almost forgot that today begins my installation.<br /><br />I am excited! I have been waiting on this day for weeks...and now its finally here!<br /><br />My installation will be spread out over three days...so I won't technically be "born" until Sunday, which is the last day.<br /><br />If I am not mistaken, I will only be getting parted today. My hair is kinda short, so I hope it doesn't take that long...I was hoping that at least one back section would be completed today. The more that gets done, the sooner, and the less time I'll be spending in the house.<br /><br />Although the weekends are strictly devoted to my daughter (I take her out and we enjoy mommy/daughter time) and I'd hate to be cramped up inside the house for an entire weekend...it is the first cold weekend here in Chicago (20 degrees) so I guess staying in won't be too bad!<br /><br />I will definitely be posting pics up during the process. I just got a new cell phone so I'm anxious to break it in and send/upload pics.<br /><br />Till next time ppl!Beautifully Made!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17261488816415328474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348797363914709351.post-74669098170606572172009-12-02T14:52:00.001-06:002009-12-02T14:53:03.859-06:00Should have...Reasearched more before I spent my money on the beeswax.....<br /><br />I will be returning it today...that's if they have a return policy!Beautifully Made!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17261488816415328474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348797363914709351.post-59375941043254623682009-12-02T13:58:00.004-06:002009-12-02T14:32:23.453-06:00To be FREEEEE!<span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:130%;">So....<br /><br />Today was my first trip to a beauty salon since BC...and what an eye opening experience...<br /><br />Friday is my install and I needed a satin bonnet and a satin pillowcase....didn't want to go to Sally's because it would be ridiculously expensive and I didn't feel like going to WalMart because I'm sure I'd end up spending more money on other things...<br />So I went to the beauty supply store because I KNEW that there wasn't anything else that I would need...<br /><br />Typical store....hair all in the window, black girl at the register and the random Korean (i guess) walking around making sure you don't steal. (That's another blog all in itself! lawdy!)<br /><br />Out of habit I go to the baby section...I'm always trying to find products to make my baby's hair all nice and wavy. (total mistake)<br /><br />I picked up some conditioner and all this other stuff and then asked her, what do these products do? she told me..and the light bulb came on...<br /><br />If I'm trying to get her hair to look as natural as possible, why the hell am I buying products? so i put everything back and asked where the beeswax was for twisting. She told me, then told me that maybe I should use a gel...<br />HUH? maybe not! I told her that gels are alcohol based and strip ur hair of natural oils...i just want her twists to hold. "you do them yourself?" "Yep", I replied...then I showed her a pic of my little girl. </span><br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTLVoVothVPnOn0CCkrmVDX5grV2-zuIChIhUW9HLzgPDOUgQokmP0jIhgywbkkXsLVqW-eYhGUUe8OCFrqbniZfOsfZNSZ-8aQtsi4xrvbNHIT8zHPW7v570yCuLPGoTgHFaM4mq6qaD7/s1600-h/IMG00029.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 236px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTLVoVothVPnOn0CCkrmVDX5grV2-zuIChIhUW9HLzgPDOUgQokmP0jIhgywbkkXsLVqW-eYhGUUe8OCFrqbniZfOsfZNSZ-8aQtsi4xrvbNHIT8zHPW7v570yCuLPGoTgHFaM4mq6qaD7/s320/IMG00029.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410738321779844162" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">"Woow! That's her hair? How old is she?" 2 years old, I replied.<br /><br />She said that her 9 month old baby's hair is fine and rubber bands slip off and she puts all this stuff in it to make braids and stuff stay, but nothing helps...so I asked her why?<br /><br />"Does your 9 month old really need ponytails and barrettes?<br /><br />I told her that the best thing about having her was that I don't know how to braid or ponytail or anything like that, thus, I let brook's hair just grow, naturally. Had no choice...felt like I was inadequate in making her "look" good with hair styles.<br />I told her if her baby's hair is fine and silky, leave it alone. comb it and let her wear it free. let her hair just grow...she's only 9 months for God's sake!<br /><br />And I sat in the car after that, knowing that I made the right decision. My daughter encouraged me to be natural...my research led me to finding alternatives to braids and ponytails....You won't see me, or her, in a shop, in a chair, getting straightened out.<br /><br />Funny how before she was born, ppl bought me all types of hair bows and "ball" and barrettes for her hair, and she has a bucket full that she just dumps on the floor from time to time.<br /><br />Yes, twisting her hair (before it became really long I used to box braid it, really small braids) takes time...but its time I'll gladly invest. We bond...I learn about her and her hair and I want to make her pretty.</span><br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu4pUehJPtnMTRinUP-RtzNxHO_mPJJuuhUZppHhWk5NZJX6focbfLpFzHeO4KAa33uF9eYPMjiwrHVjs7YJC2l9NqmGcojpr0azn3YFRDdVEMmWalS-AeOWIqoGPPMEq4seoZ9mxQOY9a/s1600-h/IMG00080.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu4pUehJPtnMTRinUP-RtzNxHO_mPJJuuhUZppHhWk5NZJX6focbfLpFzHeO4KAa33uF9eYPMjiwrHVjs7YJC2l9NqmGcojpr0azn3YFRDdVEMmWalS-AeOWIqoGPPMEq4seoZ9mxQOY9a/s320/IMG00080.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410738332387953922" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-family: verdana;font-size:130%;" ><br />Funny how more ppl have commented on my 'fro and her twists (or her hair in general) than anything else. It seems so unheard of for baby's to wear fro's or their natural hair.<br /><br />Being natural made me walk different...talk different....it shouldn't be, but ppl make judgments according to how you look now...you get stared at more often, or are expected to be a certain way. I wear my fro proudly, and will wear my sisterlocks the same.</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I still chuckle at a lady who said, "ur hair is nice...it fits you...u look like Jill Scott...u listen to her a lot?" Like my decision to go natural was brought on by JIll's music, like I am joining the revolution...I told her "honey, its not that deep. I did this for me."</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">If only Jill's music had subliminal messages that would make all ppl who heard it realize the beauty in natural hair....</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">All I know is, this is the first time in life I've spent less than 9 bucks at the beauty supply store on 3 products...and it felt so damn good!</span></span></span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK5A3FYQWoeU344sUPBGjLqLtQwM_SLttZAQjQCmKefVi8n0eIboF5C8Uy7NDSslN_QdZGYky-lDQg70jTn2JVD3slaxalRKOw04SlqfnUAO66XNe-o_BusXkWlGdVs5V_WCs_JqcvyNMd/s1600-h/IMG00151.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK5A3FYQWoeU344sUPBGjLqLtQwM_SLttZAQjQCmKefVi8n0eIboF5C8Uy7NDSslN_QdZGYky-lDQg70jTn2JVD3slaxalRKOw04SlqfnUAO66XNe-o_BusXkWlGdVs5V_WCs_JqcvyNMd/s320/IMG00151.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410738325793687026" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span>Beautifully Made!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17261488816415328474noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348797363914709351.post-2447895840493719482009-12-01T00:07:00.003-06:002009-12-01T00:12:37.435-06:00Still waiting!Four more days.....<br /><br />Ugh!<br />Patience is a virtue! So, I keep saying that this time is allowing my hair to grow just a little bit more LOL!<br /><br />The BF asked "when are you getting your hair done again?"(as he grabs a fistful of my natural 'fro). Although he knows nothing of sisterlocks, and is still not understanding even after I explain it to him, I know he trusts me.<br /><br />Plus, I look good in whatever I do!<br /><br />Hair done....now its on to transforming my body. Gotta start working out and paying close attention to being healthy. I have to set a good example for my daughter. Right now her eating habits are horrible, a reflection of me. I can't make sure she's eating right if I'm not doing the same thing. <br /><br />2010 will begin a new journey for me...I will begin to live again. I thought my world ended when my mom passed away, but she was giving me a newfound life as the woman she knew she raised me to be!<br /><br />Till next time ppl!Beautifully Made!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17261488816415328474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348797363914709351.post-35253032312897563232009-11-27T16:40:00.002-06:002009-11-27T16:44:52.776-06:00Happy Thanksgiving!Happy Belated Thanksgiving all!<br /><br />I always love being with family. Family can piss you off, make you just cringe, but in the end, you all know its out of love....and there is tons of love in my family.<br /><br />This year, I decided against putting up and my baby's father stayed home....if he comes around, he does...if not...oh well. Our lives will go on...<br /><br />Still on the countdown for my hair. This time next week I'll be heading home to get ready for my install. 7 more days! Seems like a loonnnggg time! I'm just giving my hair a little more time to grow.<br /><br />I am scared though. I've seen tons of pics of sisterlocks and I know that they all can look different, however, I have yet to see a blog or a pic of the install on a sista with less than 4 inches of natural hair. My natural hair is measuring in at about 3 inches and 2.5 in some areas of my hair. My test locks are short.....just not sure how I'm gonna look initially.....Beautifully Made!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17261488816415328474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348797363914709351.post-73733465172339328352009-11-21T11:46:00.003-06:002009-11-21T11:50:47.125-06:00Sisterlock Test Locks<span style="font-weight:bold;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVXVMKiyqCXHpfoyeSa_AJR_kJZe2UeI61FnaUNo_yN0hBLZnT4cqIaSzb7Y9A9HvI_Vg-egXq0tAc4MeuKn1OTGmscmZNl3rbWK3LgMPb8I2hnuiDLEr6qPpyu_88TVBaDH7Eikhs36KF/s1600/100_2601.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVXVMKiyqCXHpfoyeSa_AJR_kJZe2UeI61FnaUNo_yN0hBLZnT4cqIaSzb7Y9A9HvI_Vg-egXq0tAc4MeuKn1OTGmscmZNl3rbWK3LgMPb8I2hnuiDLEr6qPpyu_88TVBaDH7Eikhs36KF/s320/100_2601.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5406614791083340338" /></a><br /><br />In my haste to write about "Good Hair" I didn't post a pic of my test locks...<br /><br />Its been fie days now, and aside from occasionally feeling something while trying to pick my hair out, I haven't noticed my test locks in my hair. They have actually curled us and are kinda tucked amongst the hugeness of my afro. <br /><br />Of course I'm still excited! Of course I wish this Monday waws November 30th which would mean I only had a couple more days till my installation, but since I still have two more weeks, I'm gonna stop trying to count the days.<br /><br />I'll instead focus on shorter milestones.....Thanksgiving on Thursday, class on next Tuesday, payday... LOL</span>Beautifully Made!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17261488816415328474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348797363914709351.post-43978836762912233422009-11-21T11:29:00.003-06:002009-11-21T11:44:39.253-06:00Good or Bad Hair???<span style="font-weight:bold;">Soooo,<br /><br />Last night I finally saw "Good Hair"...and I'm kinda surprised at how I feel about it. Its almost like I was watching Rosewood or something. I had so many thoughts running through my head..I got a chance to watch it while the mister was at work and the baby was asleep, no interruptions whatsoever.<br /><br />That movie has...<br />1) confirmed my decision to go natural. Funny how Eve is quoting "I am not my hair" as a justification of wearing weaves and relaxers, but the true intent and words (in the song or otherwise) is to freely be....<br />2) Ironic that (as the sister described)people think you are being "revolutionary" when you decide to wear your hair in its natural state, be it locked, free flowing, afro, braids, etc.<br />3) Confirmed that I will NEVER put a relaxer in my baby's hair...my baby has DRAPES! Why? because I'm patient with her, I'm patient with her hair. I thank God I had no clue what to do with her hair...to this day, I don't know how to braid. But I research daily on what I can do to her hair that does not require heat or a relaxer. And my baby doesn't have the silky straight hair, her hair is dense and coily and curly and I've heard countless times, "you need to put a perm in her hair". NEVER...those are for lazy ass mothers who don't take pride in their child's hair. Your baby doesn't even have her set of adult teeth and you put a relaxer in it??? No thank you!<br />4) made me even more adamant about never going to another Korean/Japanese/Chinese beauty shop. You can't even speak English, yet you sell tons of products made for my hair and have the nerve to tell me what's natural?? KICK ROCKS!<br /><br />I could go on, but I won't...I think I got my point across.<br /><br />Being natural is so liberating! There are no expectations on how I will look....Sure I don't have ppl coming up to me telling me how straight my hair is, or how great my layers look. But i do have ppl telling me how beautiful my afro is...how it "fits my face", even white ppl have commented on how beautiful my hair is. <br /><br />Why is it so foreign for us to rock our natural hair? White women accessorize their hair, some alter it with color...but they rock the hair that they were born with, just figure out the texture and do what is necessary for their hair.<br /><br />I know the ideals and feelings are so deep rooted and it'll take some time to un-do...But it can't stop at "Good Hair"....<br /><br />I commend Chris Rock for making it informative yet comical in order to reach a broader audience, but I still don't think the message was had beyond the credits of the film.<br /><br />I'm just glad I made my decision a long time ago...</span>Beautifully Made!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17261488816415328474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348797363914709351.post-90812498808605727242009-11-17T12:22:00.003-06:002009-11-17T12:37:30.369-06:00I'm on my way....<span style="font-weight:bold;">Hey, Hey, HEY!<br /><br />I am pretty diligent when I want something....I wasn't going to let up until I got results!<br /><br />Unfortunately, out of all the people I contacted, whether by email or phone, only ONE person contacted me back (and she called to tell me she wasn't taking any new clients). <br /><br />I was kinda upset....how could one begin their journey with Sisterlocks, if it's gonna take weeks or even months to get them started. If there are more people out there like me, then I'm sure they just decided to do something else....<br /><br />Until KiKi came along....<br /><br />If you do your research and you read the blogs and Google more and more, then you begin to see the some familiar faces....and if you're as gung ho as me, then you connect them together.<br /><br />I sent KeAndri Talley of Natural and Free, LLC at www.naturalandfree.com a message and within 20 mins she replied....the NEXT DAY, I had my consultation.<br /><br />That's right! As I write I have my test locks and I'm scheduled for December 4th.<br /><br />KeAndri really upheld the professionalism that I expected from all the other consultants....maybe they don't need new business, but if you represent a larger company and trademark, then you should act better with responses. Hell, auto responses are still available on email servers.<br /><br />But, that's ok! I am already looking forward to my sessions with KeAndri, and that's how its supposed to be....forming sisterhoods while getting Sisterlocked.</span>Beautifully Made!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17261488816415328474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348797363914709351.post-28695170906310322582009-11-15T22:49:00.004-06:002009-11-15T23:07:15.195-06:00And soo it begins....<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXIkSFAFx3JKvnet7EphQg9Vr7-EmCgQ8BR75mjvwa5_jmwVklWfd59ULIDWJwVWjPP4aPXRvK21ij8x7oi-ZgutYfQfJe2Z_mPisCWxxNw7MFK0IZLLU6crUwna4_ZkFAvWzwboTqaEmp/s1600/mefro.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXIkSFAFx3JKvnet7EphQg9Vr7-EmCgQ8BR75mjvwa5_jmwVklWfd59ULIDWJwVWjPP4aPXRvK21ij8x7oi-ZgutYfQfJe2Z_mPisCWxxNw7MFK0IZLLU6crUwna4_ZkFAvWzwboTqaEmp/s320/mefro.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404563585351372738" /></a><br />Lots of things have happened in the last three years, and while those things have greatly shaped my present... on here, they aren't that important....not because you don't need to know, but mainly because, if you're smart, you'll kinda figure it out.<br /><br />I'm still a DIVA....just transforming a bit....starting with my hair.<br /><br />My hair has always been beautiful....for as long as I can remember. My mother took great care of my hair, so much so that i never even washed my hair before I turned 18. Healthy, long, beautiful, thick hair.....my hair was her prize...then i went to college.<br /><br />Imagine, being 18 and not even knowing how to wash and dry my hair? Miraculously, I still had great hair...my hair was a trooper, it endured all the craziness i did to it.<br /><br />Healthy, thick hair....permed hair that looked like a wig when it was curled and styled...never wore braids that much, other than the ones my mother put in my hair....<br /><br />Then I began to experiment...colors, cuts, long, straight, everything, and no matter what i did I was still bored with my hair. No matter what style, it was always cute.<br /><br />That's cuz I MADE my hair...flash forward....<br /><br />My daughter is a beautiful 2 year old who was born with a HEAD FULL OF CURLY HAIR. Everyone told me that it would fall out...baby hair always does...well it didn't. It got longer and thicker and curlier and my days and nights were spent researching and spending tons of money on products....cuz I had NO CLUE WHAT TO DO WITH HER HAIR!<br /><br />As a mother, you never want to harm your child. No tugging, pressing, or any of that, especially not on a baby (she's only 2) Snow White would have never ate the poisonous apple if I was her mother...I would have gotten to it first. But how can I try out these products if my hair is permed.<br /><br />So...I cut it off. My shining glory was cut off... partly because of my baby girl, but also because I no longer wanted to be defined by my hair. My uncle once said, "I either see you with your hair done, or not, never an in between...."<br /><br />What is in between? The period where you need a touch up?<br /><br />As I am learning about my baby's hair, I'm learning about my own...and myself. People look at me differently with my afro...some think I'm on this deep path, listening to India Aire and Musiq everyday, burning incense and such. I laugh and reply, "honey, its not that deep...I just wanted natural hair". But why, when someone chooses to wear their natural hair, is it perceived to be this deep transition? Or is it?<br /><br />I wanted my daughter to love her hair....I wanted, from as long as she can remember, her to know that I love her natural hair because I love my own. How can I tell her, "No, baby, your natural hair is beautiful, you don't need a perm", when I go and get "touched up" every 6 weeks.<br /><br />The pic you see is 3 months after the big chop and I love it...but I want something more....<br /><br />I've decided that more is Sisterlocks....Beautifully Made!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17261488816415328474noreply@blogger.com0