AriDeonne

Paint the Blogosphere Red in Support of HIV Awareness

noreply@blogger.com (Ariane) — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 15:22:00 +0000

Rocking my Red Pumps in Support of HIV Awareness. March 10 is National Young Women and Girls HIV Awareness Day. According to the Red Pump Project, “While great progress has been made in the area of HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment, women still represent 27% of all new AIDS diagnoses, with African American women accounting for 66% of that group”.

Deandre Brackensick in the Top 13

noreply@blogger.com (Ariane) — Sun, 04 Mar 2012 18:11:00 +0000

I am so excited that Deandre Brackensick has made the top 13 for American Idol 2012. It was hard for me to believe that he was in last years competition but had not made it as far as he did this year and last week's show it was also a pretty close call for him. Every note he seems to hit is effortless and done with such eloquence, he is a strong contender and I am glad that he has made it.

Ever since I heard his voice I wanted to hear him sing Maxwell's version of This Woman's Work, and when he did this song he killed it. This man has the whole package from his incredible voice to his impeccable curly tresses.

I will be putting my votes in this year for him and Jessica Sanchez. Who will you be voting for?

And the Winner Is...

noreply@blogger.com (Ariane) — Sun, 04 Mar 2012 17:51:00 +0000

The winner of the Target gift card sponsored by Cara B Naturally is...

Sharon Chappelle @doclocs on Twitter ! : )

Happy spending, you are sure to find some great buys at Target; it's one of my favorite stores.

Curly Natural Hair Updo using Wonder Curl

noreply@blogger.com (Ariane) — Fri, 24 Feb 2012 13:13:00 +0000

Wonder Curl's Butter than Love duo is exceptional for those of us with dry parched curls. I was especially excited when I learned that this formula contains Shea Butter which works well when I am trying to stretch out my kinks. After using this product my hair had a nice shine, my curls came out crinkly just how I like it, there was no flaking, and even more surprisingly my hair was not weighed down.

For this updo cornrows are placed on both sides of my hair one on the left side and one on the right side. The cornrows are braided into an upwards fashion.

The middle section of my hair is left out in order to create a full curly bang in the middle. For extra curl definition I use two strand twists along with the application of the Wonder Curl Butter than Love Pudding. The hair is first braided at the root then as I work my way on down I twist. When the whole middle section has two strand twists in place I then braid them all together and place them into one Bantu Knot.

The back of my hair is twisted up as you can see in the video below. This is my finished look and I love it. It's probably one of the best styles that I have created. The Wonder Curl Butter than Love Pudding gave my hair some great definition and the whipped formula gave my thirsty ends much needed moisture.

At first I was nervous about my new hair color, but after looking at this picture I know that it was the right move. It complements my skin well and my eyebrows stand out more, they have an extra full look which is super awesome.

Twitter Contest:Win a Target Gift Card Sponsored by Cara B Naturally

noreply@blogger.com (Ariane) — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 15:12:00 +0000

***CONTEST CLOSED***

DATE: FEB 23- March 1, 2012

CONTEST TYPE: TWITTER CONTEST

FEATURED RETAILER: TARGET

PRIZE: $25 GIFT CARD TO TARGET TO ONE LUCKY WINNER

Finally a line of all natural, affordable, skin and hair care products for ethnic babies and kids will be available in Target!

CARA B NATURALLY has just launched in TARGET stores across the country. Black Naps and CARA B NATURALLY have put together a fun i-spy style contest for readers! Go to the Cara B Naturally TARGET store locator at http://www.mycarab.com/target.asp and tweet whether or not the product is in the store nearest you and be eligible to win a $25 Gift Certificate! Tweet a pic of Cara B Naturally on the shelves at any TARGET location and your receive a second entry. Entry information is below:

· Follow @CaraBNaturally on Twitter

· Follow @BLACKNAPS on Twitter

· Check http://www.mycarab.com/target.asp to see if Cara B Naturally is sold in a store near you

· Tweet Cara B Naturally is in my TARGET or Cara B Naturally is not in my TARGET! along with the hashtag #ILoveCaraBNaturally and @BLACKNAPS

· Entrants that Tweet a pic of CBN product on the shelves at TARGET along with #ILoveCaraBNaturally and @BLACKNAPS will receive an extra entry
. For triple bonus points follow Black Naps Blog on Google Friend Connect located on the right sidebar area

Winner announced March 1, 2012 via Twitter and Black Naps Blog.

Women's Reproductive Health and the Connection to Hair Relaxers

noreply@blogger.com (Ariane) — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 18:07:00 +0000

A Boston University study has now linked a connection between uterine fibroid tumors, early puberty, and hair relaxers. Scalp burns, permanent hair loss, and hair stripped of proteins have not been enough to convince millions of women that relaxers pose a risk. In fact, one of the local customers at the Beauty Bar Salon says, "Well by now if something were going to happen it would have happened".

Hair Today, Tumors Tomorrow?: MyFoxHOUSTON.com

Everything that we put on our bodies matters and how long it takes for us to see those effects is irrelevant. Sadly relaxers are among the many products that we come in contact with that have been linked to cancer causing ingredients.

The best that we can do is drastically reduce our contact with these chemicals and opt for all natural ones when we can. Sometimes even finding true all natural products is pretty hard. Our deodorant, our lipsticks, our food almost anything that you can think of has been under fire at one point or another for the harmful agents that they contain.

By no means am I on a mission to convert every woman to natural hair; to each is own. The evidence that relaxers are unhealthy is readily available to anyone who wants the knowledge and it is up to the reader to decide for themselves what is best for their hair.

Curly Side Pony Tail, After Deep Conditioning and Moisturizing

noreply@blogger.com (Ariane) — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 00:58:00 +0000

Usually after a wash I have to deal with massive shrinkage and dry tight kinks. However last night just by switching over to cool rinsing for my shampoo and deep conditioning I saw a big difference in my hair. My hair was softer, retained more moisture, and was more manageable.

Last night this is what I used:

Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Shampoo
BioInfusion Olive Oil Deep Conditioning Treatment
Shea Moisture Deep Treatment Masque

After deep conditioning I put my hair in 4 big cornrows and before I braided each section I put an ample amount of Shea Moisture's Deep Treatment Masque on my hair. When I woke up I simply removed the braids, took a stretchy headband, and angled the ponytail to the side.

Especially now that my hair is color-treated I will be sure to deep condition once a week. I am so happy that now that I have discovered the joys of cold water rinses managing my hair after a wash will not be such a hassle anymore.

Natural Hair's Love Affair with Cold Water

noreply@blogger.com (Ariane) — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 13:06:00 +0000

Many of us think water is drying to our hair but the water itself may not be the problem perhaps it is the temperature of your water. There is nothing better than a nice hot steamy shower, but when it comes to your hair, hot water shouldn't even come near it.

Yes, I have read the back of the conditioner bottle with the instructions telling me to do a cool rinse and I have even heard this from other naturals but I had to experience it for myself. My showers are typically extremely hot and this is usually where I wash my hair. However last night I decided to do something different. I washed and conditioned my hair with cold water and I saw a big difference in how my hair felt afterward.

Normally after my wash is over my hair isn't super dry but it definitely could be better. Last night after my wash and deep conditioning my hair feels amazing. Even though it is the next day and my hair has fully air dried I don't have that tight kinked up dryness I usually get.

Ladies if you haven't tried it yet you will see an incredible change in the way that your hair feels, if you give up the hot water. Hot water strips you of all the moisture that you have put into your hair while cold water will help you to retain more of it. Water is a natural girl's friend not the enemy.

Hair Growth Progress

noreply@blogger.com (Ariane) — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 15:30:00 +0000

March 12, 2011- My hair is natural, in the photo above it has been pressed, and I cut my hair short to even my hair out due to hair breakage. The breakage was a result of not implementing protective styling. The mid section of my hair was extremely shorter than the rest of my hair. If you see this, then you are experiencing breakage as well and most likely should consider a cut.

November 8, 2011- After doing some research and evaluating my hair care practices, I was able to recover my hair and now that I am comparing the photos the progress doesn't look too bad. What changed between then and now, definitely had to do more so with the care of my hair rather than the products that I use which is why I stress the importance of care, rather than focusing too hard on which products to use.

My Three Big Changes

1. My hair is usually in a protective style such as tuck and roll styles, cornrows, or twists.
2. Although from time to time I do press my hair, its not that often. Usually I avoid heat at all costs for as long as I can. Which means no blow drying of my hair ( I air dry) and If I press my hair I wait a few months to do it. When my hair was done in the above photo it had been 7 months since any heat was applied to my hair.
3. Trims even when it has been months since I have seen a hair dresser, I find a way to work in a trim, even if it is done by myself. I try to do this at least every 2 months, removing 1/2 to 1/4 of an inch off of my hair. Sharp hair cutting scissors only are used on my hair, dull blades may worsen your splits.

February 2012 - My hair in its natural state in a updo natural hair style

This is where I am at today, and I hope to show kinky coily queens everywhere that you can grow your hair long too. Nappy hair does not = bad hair. Healthy, moisturized hair is good hair regardless of your hair texture.

Black History: From Forks to Afro Picks

noreply@blogger.com (Ariane) — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 14:20:00 +0000

The history of black hair care started with the use of whatever was available to a booming billion dollar industry. Whether we choose to relax our hair or wear it natural the black hair care business is not going broke anytime soon.

There are so many luxuries that we are afforded today that we take for granted.

Today we use Afro picks, wide tooth combs, and retail combs, Slaves used kitchen forks.

We seal moisture in with olive oil, jojoba oil, and countless others, Slaves used bacon grease.

Now we use moisturizing shampoos and clarifying remedies, while Slaves had to resort to grits and charcoal.

Dr. Linda Amerson speaks with EUR WEB, about the hair care of our past, and the hair care of our present. Though our ancestors were deprived of their native combs and valued possessions they still found a way to be innovative.

Read Dr. Amerson's interview at: http://www.eurweb.com/2011/02/the-history-of-black-hair-care-past-present/

For those who haven't had the opportunity to view 400 Years Without a Comb, this is a definite must see film. The film shows how we have evolved from being without the tools we used to care for our hair back in our homeland to where we are today.

Wrap Up Your Natural Hair! No Excuses

noreply@blogger.com (Ariane) — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 13:39:00 +0000

To avoid hair breakage and dryness wrapping up your hair at night is a requirement. I know sometimes when we get home we just want to plop our butts down, and if you can't find where your scarf is, its tempting to do without it. However, from experience I can tell you this is something that you do not want to do.

Many black girls have that story of "My hair was long when I was little and then it broke off". Usually it's hard to believe these stories because when you hear them typically it is coming from someone with hair that is downright tore up, but you know what there is a good chance their story is true.

It was not until my college years that I understood what was needed for healthy hair care. As a teen, when I took over my hair maintenance my hair went down hill. I was putting the curling iron in my hair everyday, brushing it constantly, over manipulating it, but perhaps one of my major flaws was not wrapping up. To this day I still remember how one morning I awoke to a multitude of broken hair strands surrounding me.

Now these strands probably didn't accumulate over just one night. However, it was the result of going to sleep night after night without my hair wrapped, and this particular day it was especially noticeable. Kinky girls wrap your hair, no excuses!

Especially for those of us with drier and kinkier textures, go without wrapping your hair up and this is going to be your end result. Keep your scarf or bonnet in a place that you know you will find it, and before you find yourself getting too tired when you come home from work, wrap it up.

I love Shima's no nonsense approach, she tells it like it is, straight up. No excuses ladies !

Nicki Minaj Drops the Nappy Bomb Twice

noreply@blogger.com (Ariane) — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 16:17:00 +0000

"These little nappy headed hoes need a perminator", says rapstress Nicki Minaj and quite a few people are not too thrilled. As a Nicki fan myself, I found the lyrics ignorant but I still continued to bop my head to it as I drove blasting Did it on Em' on my way home from work. However, now that I heard for a second time that in her latest song Stupid Hoe, she dropped some ignorance on us again, its definitely not a good look.

Now if you choose to slather chemical goop on your hair that is your choice, but for those who choose not to there is no reason to bash them. After contemplating about it, Nicki Minaj is no better than the Brazillian that released that racist natural hair song, and in fact she is sending the message that this is okay.Which sends a negative message out to the young African American community that looks up to her, or her Barbie bitches.

In her song Stupid Hoe she says,

"Them nappy headed hoes but my kitchen good."

No Nicki, my kitchen is quite good without a perm.I don't have to put on pounds of makeup, wigs, or false eye lashes to feel beautiful. Hopefully, mothers out there are teaching their daughters the same, and showing them that don't have to follow your Barbie standard to be beautiful.

I won't lie I still will bump a Nicki track, because I don't have to like her as a person, but her mentality says that she has fallen for the brainwashing that our ancestors had to endure many moons ago.

Can I Touch It? Ummm...No, Hands off My Natural Hair

noreply@blogger.com (Ariane) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 18:07:00 +0000

What in the world would make someone think that it is okay to go up to someone that you never met before and grab their hair. It is an invasion of personal space, and for people who don't see it that way or can't understand the concept you must be an ignoramus. After reading this article via CNN some women have harsh feelings about those who come up with out any warning and touch their hair.

Los Angelista says no you cant touch my hair,"Because my black ancestors may have been your ancestors' property, and had to smile while they got touched in ways they didn't want to, but I am not YOUR property and never will be so you'd best move your hand away from me." and her response is entitled.

It's hard to understand why someone would not get why walking up and gawking at someone's hair is offensive, but put simply it is an invasion of privacy. In the past I have had someone touch my dreadlocks without warning (when I use to have them), and tell me that my hair reminded them of yarn.

Now me, I actually found it quite funny, being that some of us do rock our yarn braids, but the next person she tries this on might not take it so lightly. Hands off, respect peoples privacy and do not touch people's hair that you do not know. Curious, try asking instead, or better yet do some research if you are that interested.

Amber Rose and Wiz Khalifa's New Fame Single

noreply@blogger.com (Ariane) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 16:22:00 +0000

Amber and Wiz, have more than wedding plans up their sleeves, recently Amber released her new single Fame. Its definitely something that could be a potential club banger, although I feel that the single only gives you a taste of what her vocals can do.

Amber has moved far past the days of hanging on Kanye's arm, and has happily moved onto the heart of Wiz Khalifa. According to Fox News Celebbuzz's latest interview with the model turned songstress, she is happy with where she is at,“We both work really hard, so we miss each other a lot because we’re away from each other a lot. It’s not like we crowd each other,” in addition she adds that Wiz always lavishes her with love notes, flowers, and breakfast in bed. Sounds like a fairy tale romance, hope it lasts! We need more successful black married couples and lovers around.

I find it admirable, that he is in support of his sweetie's goals of becoming the next big pop sensation. When you don't have a partner that doesn't have enthuisiam for your hopes and dreams its tears a hole in you like nothing you have ever felt. Its good to hear that Amber has found love and has a partner with her every step of the way.

Remembering the Legendary Etta James

noreply@blogger.com (Ariane) — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 15:53:00 +0000

The music legend Etta James, passes away at the age of 73 after battling the affects of Leukemia. Decades after the birth of her history making lyrics, we are still inspired to this day, and she is a music inspiration to music artists world wide. Soulful sensation Adele listed Etta James, and Aretha Franklin as her idols, and then expanded upon her admiration by saying "If you were to look up the word singer in the dictionary, you'd see their names". Her final moments were spent in the arms of her family, her spirit will live on in their hearts, and her fans all over the world.

Her 43 year old son, Donto James spoke with People.com, and expressed his feelings on his mothers passing by saying,"It's been quite a day but I'm very grateful. She basically passed in my arms, and I was able to share everything I needed to say to her, from praying to listing her accomplishments as a mother".

My Favorite Etta James Song

I'd Rather Go Blind

Something told me it was over
When I saw you and her talkin'
Something deep down in my soul said, 'Cry, girl'
When I saw you and that girl walkin' around

Whoo, I would rather, I would rather go blind, boy
Then to see you walk away from me, child, no

Whoo, so you see, I love you so much
That I don't wanna watch you leave me, baby
Most of all, I just don't, I just don't wanna be free, no

Whoo, whoo, I was just, I was just, I was just
Sittin here thinkin', of your kiss and your warm embrace, yeah
When the reflection in the glass that I held to my lips now, baby
Revealed the tears that was on my face, yeah

Whoo and baby, baby, I'd rather, I'd rather be blind, boy
Then to see you walk away, see you walk away from me, yeah
Whoo, baby, baby, baby, I'd rather be blind...

3 Ways to Rock Your Blonde Afro & Color Treated Hair Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Ariane) — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 15:16:00 +0000

#1 Luscious Golden Curls

SouthernGryl is rocking her curly TWA with pride and her new blonde look is smoking hot. For many of us, we get so attached to length that we often forget how beautiful short natural hair styles can be. Still getting use to your new short do? Spice it up with a little color. Adding something different to your style gives you that special umph you need without even adding one hair accessory. Dress your look up with a bulkier pair of earrings for excitingly feminine style, have your dress game on point and toast to your beautiful hair.

Miss Jessie's Baby Buttercreme is my favorite product from the Miss Jessie's product line, and it gave me the best twist outs.

#2 Wave-o-licious Golden Tones

Syesha looks absolutely stunning in her wavy short do with an incredible golden tone. The style that Syesha is rocking looks elegant perfect for a dressier occasion or a causal outing. Red combined with gold make an impeccable pair. Her fire engine red lips and her red chic blouse complement everything from her golden mane to her skin. Hoop earrings with beautiful dangly action going on work well to complete her style giving her a sexy girly appeal.

Watch this Songstress Rock out to Beyonce's Love On Top

Looking to achieve a way look like Syesha's? Try WonderCurl Get Set Hair Jelly, it made my 4b coils wave up like magic.

#3 Blown Out, Swept, and Blonde

Tanisha Renee Brown, blows out and stretches her golden fro, and pushes it aside for a soft incredible look. This style is easy to achieve, with little effort on your part but it still makes for an awesome style. Simply stretch out your hair with a braid out or blow dry and with the use of a cotton stretchy headband or even a few bobby pins, push your mane to the side. The extended eyeliner she is rocking is one of my favorite makeup looks, which is accomplished by taking the eyeliner and extending it more outward in an upward fashion.

A Live Performance by Tanisha at NYC's Village Underground

Need a little help stretching out those kinks? Shea Moisture Deep Treatment Masque helps to extend my hair while giving my thirsty roots that moisture it craves.

Quick Tips for Color Treated Hair

Minimize your sulfate shampoo time and up your co-washing
Never, ever wash your hair before you do a dye job
When you touch up your color, your application should be focused on your roots and then work your way down to your ends
Keep your hair moisturized by using a water based product, a creamier product, and then seal in the moisture with an oil

Natural Hair, Working Out, and Losing 25 Pounds in a Week

noreply@blogger.com (Ariane) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 17:05:00 +0000

One of the great things about having natural hair is that you do not have to worry about sweating your hair out. Aside from the other numerous excuses that we come up with when avoiding the good old gym, this is one of the main ones the black women use. To think that you avoid taking care of the health of your body over hair.

Well, after enjoying fried soft shell po-boys in New Orleans since I have been back I have been staying on track and I am committed to losing my 25lbs. As a natural woman, I don't have to worry about sweating nothing out and I find that is freeing not worry about it. All that I need to do is put my hair in the classic poof and I am good to go.

One weight loss inspiration channel that I found interesting, is Impatient Dieters via YouTube. In one week she dropped 25lbs doing a liquid diet combined with some solid foods. I am wondering how healthy that is, and if so how do you keep from not eating like a mad woman once you return to an all solid food diet?

Washing Kinky Hair & Shea Moisture Shea Butter Shampoo

noreply@blogger.com (Ariane) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Usually I am more of a co-washer, but last night I decided to use Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Shampoo. After my shampoo last night my scalp felt refreshed, my hair was soft, light, and fluffy. I was trying to avoid washing my hair until the weekend but, my hair just couldn't go one other day without being washed.

Now, I did wash my hair last week, but my hair was getting weigh down from product build up so even though I didn't want to, it was time for a wash. To my surprise my was last night wasn't so bad because I used my technique that helps me to cut down on time and it keeps the tangles out of my hair.

My hair is almost always in some sort of protective style, so when I wash my hair instead of taking my cornrows or twists out I leave them in. This prevents my hair from getting tangled when I wash it and when I want to take out my plaits out its easier to do because they are moist.

Washing my hair with Shea Moisture Shampoo, was far from my typical experience. Usually after a wash before I detangle, my hair is matted and tight to the scalp. While I still did have some of this going on, it wasn't nearly as bad. What made me absolutely elated was that my hair had some poof to it which I love. I can't stand flat hair. I was able to do a big braid out style so overall I was pleased with my hair's moisture and volume after my wash. Looking for a shampoo that won't dry your hair out? This is a great buy.

Rochelle Ritchie Making Serious Waves in the Media

noreply@blogger.com (Ariane) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 13:01:00 +0000

Rochelle Ritchie reporter from WPTV in West Palm Beach, Florida made serious waves last year when she made a big chop. She discussed how she went from living in weaves and wigs for the camera to wanting healthier natural hair. With her own natural hair journey as inspiration, she decided to do a story on the increase of the number of women in the black community going natural.

While the creamy crack may be working for some people, this news feature highlighted how many women end up suffering from permanent hair loss or Alopecia as a result of chemical burns from relaxers. It also displayed pictures of real women who suffered from thinning hair lines from the constant braiding and weaving of the hair. For women who may be dealing with unhealthy or breaking hair this story must have been a huge eye opener and perhaps a motivator.

Now here is Rochelle a year after her hair story made the headlines. Her progress is absolutely amazing; her hair looks moist, silky, and healthy. She is an inspiration to women everywhere in the media industry showing them that you do not need Yaki or Remy to be beautiful.

Staceyann Chin Brings a Miracle into the World!

noreply@blogger.com (Ariane) — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 02:55:00 +0000

Staceyann Chin welcomes a beautiful baby girl into the world Zuri- Siale. Reading about her journey via the Huffington Post and Facebook has definitely been thought provoking. Now her beautiful miracle is here and I am glad that she can experience the gift of family. Ever since reading her book The Other Side of Paradise and listening to her dope poetry on Def Poetry Jam, I have become a big fan.

For my Daughter

I’ve already forgotten

the times you threatened/to fall

clots of red from my inadequate uterus

in the middle of the night

rushed me fretting to the hospital

praying to a god I’m not quite sure I ever believed in

for your survival/I was unwilling to take chances

just in case the conservative nuts were right about something

I chanted/said some semblance of contrition

made promises I knew I could not keep

if only you would stay

I would do this or that

differently/knowing full well

I love the map of my present life

I’ve nearly forgotten the ptyalism/which is really

a fancy way to say the mouth

fills frothy with globules of spit/interrupting

conversations/in every room

I vomited/bled/spat out the belief/more hope

that I could be somebody’s mother

now I am yours

tiny life beginning

with such a choir of good wishes preceding

know always you were wanted/loved

by more than just me

my own mother left me early

first years flying

low self-esteem to begin the journey

of how could I love anyone

when my own mother never loved me/cliché

how could anyone

hold a candle to that first abandonment

all my life I have tip-toed/fought

begged for acceptance

from a complete circle

closed by the unforgiving women

sharing my genetic material

we are good at sitting in judgment of others

clacking our mouths pursed in disapproval

I was amazed at how they could never say

anything good

of my accomplishments

only my shortcomings/real and perceived

they lamented how odd I am/different from my mother

but odd nonetheless/the apple never fall far

watch that tree/it will come to no fruit

but look at you now

daughter

it is my intention to be

different/with you

you were lucky enough to be born

girl/I am looking forward

to watching you become/woman

I can hardly wait

to hear your voice/even in opposition to my own

and we should admit early

that politics are hard

on mothers and daughters

I expect us to rumble/wrestle

create generational bruises that will have to be survived

partake in arguments that will have to be

apologized for

I have done my best to name you

in preparation for a road I imagine

will look oddly similar/different from mine

vulnerable/resilient/rock of beauty/reason for love

I hope your name

will help you carry justice in your palms

keep your intentions clean/with the cloths

of warrior women who came ahead of you

ahead of me/mine include

Madonnas/whores/mad women in attics

old maids/witches/ hags

virgins who were never really virgins

except when they needed to be

smart women/make your own list of saints

fondle it often

this rosary of Amazonian nomenclatures

recite them/chant them as prayer

for your own daughter

for your mother/who often thinks she knows

more than she does

forgive me/daughter/for the sins I know

will stain your childhood with confusion

later

send you to some strangers expensive couch

to thrash out how your mother

never loved you/loved you too much

therapists will always find our hidden dysfunction

but if I do anything right

you will be fierce/not necessarily loud like me

but you will have cause to challenge me

call me archaic/pick apart my philosophies

I hope we will be able to breathe through it

not unlike the way I breathed

through sixteen hours of labor/contracting

no drugs to fool the body

twisting/transitioning/shaking off

the ills of my own childhood

intermittent pains

preparing my womb/spreading cervix dilating

six centimeters/one hundred percent effacing

I was prepared to go all the way

and then nothing

needle to spine/tap-tap for five hours later

no change/except your heart slowing

beginning the rush of doctors

inserting tubes/drugs/hands to encourage you

to beat faster

oxygen mask over mouth

I mumbled the list of saints I kept ready

Audre

Adrienne

June

Jean

Patricia

Bernice

your heart pulsed wild then

rapid dance making the decision

to slice me smiling hip to hip

blood pouring numb in the cold operating room

and then you were here

wide-eyed and alert/you surveyed the damage

and did not blink

I remember thinking

this child will always send me into panic

such is the terror of motherhood

you cannot save your child

from everything

but you cannot help trying

flying right into the eye of some hurricane

because you heard she might have gone there

for a party

wild ride ahead/child I’m ready

welcome to the village

glad you here/now/taking up space

here’s to you/finding among us

even more room to grow

~Staceyann Chin~

Congratulations!

Traveling with Natural Hair

noreply@blogger.com (Ariane) — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 21:36:00 +0000

During your travels you want to be ready and up for anything. You don't want your hair getting of the way of splashing around in the pool or indulging in a relaxing hot tub with bubbles dancing across your back. Which is one of the many benefits of natural hair, you can get your hair wet or sweaty without the worry that your hair will be totally ruined. During my travels here are some styles and natural hair care tips that have made things more convenient and stylish for me.

For us kinkier ( 4b/4c) gals the go to styles for travels are (or at least for me):

Box braids/Yarn Braids
Two strand twists
Kinky Twists
Cornrows
Bantu Knots

Why?

They are great protective hair styles
You don't have to worry about messing in your hair for your trip, keep it simple.
Frizz and dryness can be easily controlled
If you desire a curly style, you can take them out for a nice braid out or twist out

Products for travel

Right now for my New Orleans trip I am enjoying Jane Carter Solution's traveling kit. I like this because to my knowledge few natural hair product companies are doing this. This makes my packing time easier because I don't have to worry about going to Walmart, purchasing the travel size bottles, and squeezing my hair products into them.

The kit comes with almost every hair item you could possibly need: sculpting foam, conditioner, shampoo, curl defining creme, moisturizing hair butters, and one my favorites her leave-in-conditioner. I was especially pleased with the curl defining creme's work, it gave my twist out marvelous definition.

After Using Jane Carter's Curl Defining Creme

Sony Has to Pay Up for a Racist Natural Hair Song

noreply@blogger.com (Ariane) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 15:01:00 +0000

Brazilian singer,actor, and comedian Tiririca released a song entitled Veja Cabelos Deja ("Look at Her Hair"), and now Sony has to pay the price which totals to a whopping 1.2 million dollars.Usually when I hear things called racist in America, I feel that people are being highly oversensitive. However, this is the one occasion when there is no hinting around at the racism and nothing about the issue is funny.

The song out rightly demeans black women:

"Veja veja veja veja veja os cabelos dela (4x)
(Look look look look look at her hair (4x)

Parece bom-bril*, de ariÃ¡ panela
(It looks like a scouring pad for pots and pans)

Parece bom-bril, de ariÃ¡ panela
(It looks like a scouring pad for pots and pans)

Quando ela passa, me chama atenÃ§Ã£o
(When she goes by, she catches my attention)

Mas os seus cabelos, nÃ£o tem jeito nÃ£o
(But her hair just isn't right)

A sua catinga quase me desmaiou
(Her stench almost made me faint)

Veja veja veja veja veja os cabelos dela
(Look look look look look at her hair)

Parece bom-bril, de ariÃ¡ panela (2x)
(It looks like a scouring pad for pots and pans) (2x)

Eu jÃ¡ mandei, ela se lavar
(I told her to take a bath)

Mas ela teimo, e nÃ£o quis me escutar
(But she's stubborn and doesn't listen to me)

Essa nega fede, fede de lascar
(This black woman stinks, she stinks horribly)

Bicha fedorenta, fede mais que gambÃ¡
(Stinking beast, smells worse than a skunk)"

This song is one of hate and its lyrics certainly don't beat around the bush with this. To hate a group so much that you have to make song about your prejudice means that group has some sort of significance or power over your life. Hate takes energy out of you, so for someone to go that hard something is behind it, perhaps jealously.

Brazilian Woman

What I can't wrap my fingers around is how many of the Brazilian people look black themselves, yet some are so full of hate toward black people. Oh, and if you ever dare call them black they throw hissy fits, this especially frustrates me when it is clear they have some sort of African ancestry going on. When I hear ignorance such as this, it automatically makes me think they are just haters because their hair can't do all the cool tricks my can.

It can appear short and coily when I want it to
Braided and glorious
Curly shiny ringlets
Fluffy, big, and bold
and if I so desire
it can be worn pressed,
straightened, and silky

Anyone ignorant enough to make a song about another peoples hair is nothing short of a hater, they are probably mad because they feel their own style is limited.

The man behind the racism, Tiririca

Tiririca, your lyrics are garbage, you are garbage, you fail.

Achieving Curl Definition in 4B hair

noreply@blogger.com (Ariane) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 13:24:00 +0000

By nature 4b or 4c hair in its natural state, is not exactly what we would call curly, but it definitely has a rather coily look to it. On its own after washing your hair, as a 4b/4c lady it is not likely that you will have loose ringlets without a little work on your part.

For me I find that for the best curl definition I like to deal with my hair while it is still wet. This is because once I blow dry it out it straightens fairly easily and the curl is just not the same. My twist outs and braid outs on wet hair turn out more defined, smooth, and shiny.

My key to elongating my hair somewhat and getting a defined curl is achieved by a combination of three things: A detangling session, twisting, and the right product.

Taking the the time to detangle my hair section by section combing from the ends of my hair and working my way on up helps to expand my hair.

Although braiding the hair may stretch it out more, I prefer to do a two-strand twist out my hair because I prefer the s curl shape it leaves behind.

For hold and definition I use a either a heavy butter, creme, or moisturizing gel.

Me after using Jane Carter Solution's Curl Defining Creme today. I love the results : )

4B Kinky Hair Do's and Don'ts

noreply@blogger.com (Ariane) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 08:34:00 +0000

Over the course of my natural hair journey I have learned what works for my 4b kinky hair type and what doesn't. Although, many women have a mixture of textures in their hair, for me the typing system simply signifies that different hair types require different techniques of dealing with hair.For example, I know certain techniques someone with 4a hair uses would not cut it for me, like spraying my hair with water. If I did that on a regular basis my hair would look like a dried out matted pancake. With that being said here are my list of do's and don'ts.

Don't

Ever, ever go to bed without some sort of protective style like braids or twists. Don't do this and suffer from matted hair and the worse case scenario breakage.

Go too long without clipping your ends. Just because your natural does not mean you shouldn't keep a regular schedule of trims, skip it and you are left with limp, thinned out hair, styling becomes a little harder from the tangles as well.

Comb your hair when it is bone dry, have some sort of slip going on.

In your hair's natural state, do not comb your hair from the root on down, instead comb it from the ends and work your way on up.

Wear rubberbands too frequently, they break your hair off like crazy. If you do decide to wear them, try cutting them off instead of pulling them off.

Do's

Add moisture to your hair when needed (for me this is usually once a day, but for you it may vary) with a water based product, creme, and seal with an oil.

Cleanse your hair once a week or every two weeks, get rid of the product buildup.

Deep condition often

Take the time to properly detangle your hair

Minimize your usage of heat

Shit Natural Hair Girls Say

noreply@blogger.com (Ariane) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 12:05:00 +0000

I have said a few things of off this list:

Do you have an extra do-rag? My hair can't touch this cotton pillow case.
Does my forehead look shiny
I'm thinking about getting dreads
My hair is looking dry!

What's on your list?

Almost all of us had to say at least one of these statements. While natural hair does come with perks like being able to work out without the worry about sweating out your hair, not hiding from the rain fall like a mad woman, or thinned out hair it still requires some upkeep like any other hairstyle. We battle with dryness, shrinkage, getting the perfect curl, maintaining our curls, and the list could go on and on.

What makes comedy especially funny is when its speaks about what we know to be true. I had to laugh because I knew I had a few on this list that I had said before and if I didn't make the statement I knew someone who had.