Luv ♥ My ♥ Kynxx

Chocolateisnatural Radio Appearance ~Should I Henna?

2013-08-10T16:32:00.004-07:00

Today I had a wonderful opportunity to talk publicly about Henna as described in the promotional flyer above. I appeared on [chocolateisnatural Radio] and talked with the show host Kena Shaw. Chocolateisnatural focuses on issues that effect the natural hair community. Kena provides an encouraging and comfortable forum for Naturalistas to listen to live discussions with topics that range from, product reviews, beauty, fitness, health, taxes, books, guest speakers, and more. Writers are welcome to submit blog posts on natural hair, fitness, and mental health once per month. Those interested may send writing samples to info@chocolateisnatural.com.

Chocoalateisnatural radio broadcasts the last Saturday each month from 9am to 10am CST. You can access the station live one of 3 ways:

1. Listen on your cell or landline phone by dialing 347-884-8011

2. On the web www.blogtalkradio.com/chocolateisnatural

3. On my website just click the tab Radio Show

Archived shows are always available 24/7 for you to enjoy!!!! Just click on the tab Radio Show.

During today's broadcast, I was asked a series of questions about henna where I explained the benefits, precautions, and mixing instructions as well. For those interested in hearing today's broadcast [CLICK HERE].

Special Thanks to my very proficient Social Media Specialist Georgette Jones. For more information on her services visit Georgette Social on Facebook.

HHG!

ATL 2013/World Natural Hair Show

2013-05-26T14:16:00.004-07:00

A month ago I finally had the pleasure of traveling to Atlanta, GA to attend Taliah Waajid's World Natural Hair Show. Since my return I've been extremely busy with work and just had a chance to share the photos I'd taken. I had a great time at the expo and visiting the city of Atlanta in general. So much so I finally got around to sharing photos of my trip...here they go!

DAY ONE

This is the Hotel I stayed at while in Atlanta. It was walking distance to the train station, and about 5 minutes from the airport. From what I'd read about it hadn't been there for very long. I had an awesome stay. The hotel shuttle drivers were extremely generous with their time taking us for food and doing other favors that exceeded their job descriptions if you ask me. Definite perk!

So fresh and so clean, clean....loved this room.

Changed clothes and ready to hit the train station!

College Park MartaTrain Station

Me on the Marta. I traveled from College Park to Medical Center which was about a half hour trip.

A good friend picked me up from the station in Medical Center and was kind enough to show me around the city. One of the first things I noticed while riding around ATL was how green and how tall the trees were. It was a like being in a major metropolitan city in the middle of the forest. Beautiful.

I was starving and wanted some food I never can get here in TX...SOUL FOOD! Yeah!

Collards, Candied Yams....

Baked Mac N' Cheese, Pinto's, and Cabbage....goodness gracious!

All I ordered were sides and everything was BOMB!

This was my fit for the night. My best friend missed her flight and wasn't able to attend the World Natural Hair Pre-Party gala. I was out with 2 of my clients for the night who were sweet enough to show me a good time and get me out fo the room for the night. We had a difficult time trying to locate the venue to the pre-party and by the time we arrived it was over. We ended up going to Frank Ski's to get our party on. Very nice place to hang out, nice music and although I didn't order food, the food I did see looked appetizing.

DAY TWO

Changed up the "doo" for the show opting for a cute and quick protective updo.

My friend arrived early in the morning the day of the natural hair show. It rained that day so we took a few snapshots while waiting in the hotel lobby for the shuttle van to return.

Us waiting in the lobby of the hotel for the shuttle van to take us to the convention center.

I stopped here first. Love me some earrings!!

Had to stop by Jane Carter and pick up some Nourish & Shine...it was only $10 bucks!! Saved about $12!

I was pleased to see my highly respected friend, mentor, and natural hairstylist of the year Thando Kafele doing this thing...

Thando Kafele~ Natural Hair Stylist and Self Esteem Specialist

Gorgeous Natural Models

I love watching other stylists get busy...maybe next year Kynxx will have a booth and

Black Onyx of Alika Naturals was in the house representing her brand and a head full of healthy kynxx beautifully!! She was super sweet!!

One of my favorite photos of all I took that day. I was so happy to meet this beautiful Sista, Katrina introduced herself to me, sharing how she is a supporter of my Facebook fan page. It's always a pleasure meeting people who are so supportive, kind, and encouraging me to continue doing what I love most in life. Blessing to have met her!

DAY THREE

I wasn't ready to go and definitely had a great time....looking forward to attending next year!

Farewell Photos taken in the lobby of Hotel Indigo and shared at all locations over the world.

Cool thing was I managed to rock a different style each day I was there. I saw so many women with beautiful hair of various, colors, lengths and textures. I even got my shop on while I was there and bought a jar of Burnt Sugar Pomade from they Oyin booth, some Red Raj henna, and a few boxes of organic Cassia from Henna Sooq and chatted with the owner Khadijah Carryl. Picked up a tank from I Love Being Black and a sarong from my Southern Cali native buddies from Roots Collection, some Nourish and Shine by Jane Carter for $10, and few other goodies. It was such a treat!

If you're reading this and plan on attending next year, I highly recommend Hotel Indigo if you don't plan on renting a vehicle during your stay. It's walking distance to the train station, the shuttle service will transport you to and from the expo at no charge and there are quite a few restaurants in the area as well if you don't want to eat at the hotel restaurant. The staff was friendly and the hotel was clean...two thumbs up!

HHG!

Nappiology Nappy Hour 2012

2012-11-05T11:33:00.000-08:00

Seem's like yesterday when I attended the first annual Nappy Hour Nappiology Expo pre-party. Like all Nappiology events I've been to, they just get better each year. This year, food was served, poets peformed spoken word and as always beautiful men and women graced the venue with positive spirits ready to par-tay!! I was fortunate to have been one of them! Here are some highlights of my night....

The Bar...

Cheers!!

This young lady is a natural hair stylist from Memphis,TN and Ian Anthony Brown,

Founder and Artistic Director at Bandan Koro African Drum and Dance company a long time Facebook Friend. For more info on his African Dance classes visit www.bandankoro.com

O-M-G can you say Kool-Aid!! Had to take a snap with the woman who made it all possible De Phillips Johnson...so sweet she is!

Gift bags for all who attended...goodies from Miss Jessies!!

Food on Deck!!

Spoken word Artists were on point...such good vibes.

Wobble, wobble :)

Down, down, do ya thang!!! Cupid Shuffle time!

A party ain't a party without a Soul Train line!!

Beats!

I had a great time...relaxed and enjoyed socializing with good folks! Looking forward to next year!

HHG!!

Texas International Hair Show 2012

2012-07-04T12:53:00.000-07:00

This year I was invited to attend the 2012 Texas International Hair Show, July 1-2, in Mesquite, TX just 15 minutes from downtown Dallas. As fate would have it I was scrolling down Facebook and noticed a status update from a friend stating Thando Kafele was looking for local Dallas natural stylists to accompany him at his booth at the show styling hair. Needless to say although I'd heard nothing about the event that was coming up in 2 days, I jumped on the opportunity and immediately sent him an email. I left it in God's hands and the rest is history.

Thando Kafele (pronounced Ta-hando Kah-fay-lay) is one of the most known Natural Hair stylists/educators in the industry. His 15 year plus resume includes Celebrity natural hair styling for Lennox Lewis, India. Arie, Manny Ramirez and his work has been featured in Ebony magazine, Braids and Beauty, and Authentic Hair. He is the owner of TK Salon in Brooklyn, NY and the Senior Stylist at Loc's n' Chops located in Manhattan. Kafele is the first Loc stylists in the industry who competed and won Natural Stylist of the year and all he does is loc's so you know this Brotha is bad! He attends the IBS show, and also one of the first recognized Natural Hair Loc Stylists at Bronner Brothers Hair Show. Among his many achievements, Mr. Kafele has is own hair oil called K-Oil and is also the international spokesperson for Jane Carter Solutions Products as well and the creator of Team Black, a natural hair styling team of 5 stylists including himself, J.Valentin, Simone Hylton, Queen Roshae and Folami Saunders each from all over the country. Who knows, Amber Frank may be the 6th addition to Team Black representing Dallas, TX ;o).

I'd been following Thando Kafele on Facebook long before I'd even thought of becoming a natural hair stylist. To have an opportunity to work along side him was truly a blessing. I attended the hair show with no expectation aside from doing my best at styling the hair I styled while there. It was definitely a wonderful experience. Mr. Kafele is now a professional friend in the industry who extended his professional industry insight as well as personal insight on living my best life. He went above and beyond mentoring and even put me on the spot a few times during his workshop when it came to my knowledge of natural hair care and educating others on correct verbiage to use when speaking about natural hair styling. One of the many things he said to me that I will never forget were when people come at me with the "who do you think you are?" attitude my question in return should always be " Who do I think I am I NOT?" The belief that I am talented enough to achieve anything I choose comes from within, therefore who am I NOT to believe being unreasonable at times and stepping outside of my comfort zone is where my success lies. So simple yet so profound to be respected, appreciated, and compensated. Mr. Kafele advised those 3 words remain embedded in my mind as expectations in every aspect of my life. It was a life altering experience I will forever hold dear in my heart and spirit.

It was the first time I'd ever worked as a team with other stylists Jackson Emile from Houston, TX (not shown) and Fatima Matthews (far right), a local Loctician in Carrollton, TX...the pleasure was all mine.

Hair Show Highlights!

It was great to see the Matriarch of natural hair care and braiding at the show Isis Brantley. I am forever grateful to this Sister for paving the way for every single licensed hair braider in the state of Texas. Had it not been for her going to jail and standing up for her belief that hair braiders do not have to invest 1600 hours of time in studying and training to become a cosmetologist, spending thousands of dollars at a cosmetology school learning nothing about Afro textured hair, I would not be able to live my passion. Much love to Sister Isis. I stopped by at chatted with her briefly (she even gave me props on a style she'd seen I'd done) as she twisted this brothers hair with speed and precision...all without using comb!

I love unique earrings and attend these events always in search of a booth that has some. I came across this booth and was AMAZED by the beautiful artwork, sarongs, necklaces, incense and much more. This was the only booth I patronized while there. As I was speaking to one of the owners he'd asked where I was from and when I told him California, he told me all of them were also from cities in Southern Cali. It was nice meeting folk from home.

I bought a wooden necklace for my son with the shape of Africa medalion, some wooden hair accesories and a really pretty Bob Marely Sarong....can't wait to rock that baby!

For more information or to purchase items shown of the 3rd World Roots Collection located in Baton Rouge, LA visit

www.rootscollection1911.com

The OG's of hair care products Dudley's was in the house!

Some really talented Cosmetologists and Make-up Artists come from this school.

The DJ at this booth had the entire convention center rockin'

Lashes going down for $20...this booth stayed packed

For the fly Brothers who understand the importance of dressing for success ;o)

Mocca Make-up Booth

Custom foundation by Mocca

Walking down the corridors of the convention center I was checking out these ladies being photographed for the hair show and had to get my own snapshot!

It wouldn't be a hair show without Barbers...Wahl represented!

Barber Competition going down!

1st place winner!

The trophy was almost as tall as the Barber that won it...

My apologies for the blur...the artwork on the smock was the same artwork on this Brothers head! 1st place well deserved.

Hair Styling was also going down everywhere...

Hair Trendz was a booth nearby... talk about straight shiny hair, it was beautiful!

Texas Top Ten Stylists Booth....keeping hope alive 2013 will have some Natural Hair Stylists included in the top ten!

This stylist getting her net weave on!

Positive engergy...Namaste!

I love this Cleopatra cut..so blunt and beautiful!

I had to stop and photograph this Barber cutting this Sistah's hair with shears and a comb the old school way! That's talent!

A HUGE turn out...

Saving the best for last...

He wasn't happy about the incorrect spelling of his name :o)

Tee Shirt's going down at the Kafele Booth

TIGHT!

Kafele and I putting in work!

Kafele's work...

Kynxx work...

For more information about Thando Kafele [click here] . For more Kynxx on Facebook [click here]

Until we meet again...

HHG!!

Nappiology Meet Up Highlights

2012-05-21T15:07:00.000-07:00

Imagine my surprise and joy when De Phillips Johnson CEO of Nappiology,Inc. and Nappiology meet-up group here in the Dallas/Ft Worth area contacted me offering me the opportunity to present at one of her monthly meet-up groups. I felt fortunate and grateful that she thought of me. For the past 2 years I posted my highlights at the Nappiology Expo's I attended, [click to see highlights from 2011] and [click here to see highlights from 2010] ...I can honestly say they get better each year and I'm so looking forward to Nappiology Expo 2012! To learn more about Nappiology [click here]

This was such a great experience for me. It gave me the opportunity to let so many supporters get to know me outside of my [Facebook Business Page] which is where a vast majority of my supporters and clientele have come from. These women are so kind, uplifting and full of excitement about learning to care for their hair and share with me and other women what they have learned as well. I really wanted to express how much they have helped me grow both professionally and personally and how much I appreciate them. This months meet-up was held at Betty Warmack Library in Grand Prairie, TX. Prior to the meet up starting I had chance to talk with a couple of clients I hadn't seen a quite awhile. They both greeted me with hugs and one of them gave me a gift. I was pleasantly surprised when one Sister named Aledra handed me a little cellophane bag with something wrapped inside. I opened it immediately!

I remembered her telling me sometime ago she makes jewelry as a hobby. She made me this BEAUTIFUL jewelry because she said she knows how much I love earrings and that to her I give so much helping others along their natural hair journey's. I was so touched. I even rocked the bracelet right then and there...

Women of every shade of brown with kinky curly coils gathering together in a peaceful supportive setting is such a wonderful thing to be a part of...

It was such a treat just speaking on what I love to anyhow. It never feels like work when you do what you love!

I wanted to take the crowd through regimen building from start to finish and began first with sharing natural hair care options using oils and butters for do-it-yourself (DIY) hair care. I was so pleased to see women with paper and pens out ready to take notes and iPad tablets on laps, with plenty of questions.

I went through the what I call the 8 steps of regimen building, discussing natural oils and butters after using water for moisture prior to applying an oil or butter to the hair. I will go into detail in a future post. I get asked so many questions on how to build a regimen I wanted to cover it in the most simplified way I could to make the journey towards having healthy natural hair not so overwhelming for some. I really wanted the guests to know the road to healthy hair is not solely in a product but in consistency of care we give our hair regardless what is used to a certain degree. Also, caring for our hair IS affordable, especially when replacing products with DIY hair care options. We discussed scalp issues, what carrier oils are, what essential oils are and the benefits of adding them to oils and products we already have, to increase the benefits of using them. I know many of us feel we have to categorize our hair into some "type" so I also touched on why I feel using the word texture instead is a more fitting. I was so glad to see so many women in agreement.

We also had time for a styling tip segment. I'd asked my good friend if she would allow me to do a demo on her hair and she agreed. I needed one more model and asked for a volunteer. Their hair textures and lengths were completely different and I wanted to show how the same products depending on what technique is used can be used on any hair texture.

For more photos of this event and other Nappiology events [click here].

Once we wrapped it up ( it went 1/2 overtime) De gave me a really cute Nappiology Tee!! I'll be rockin' it at the next meet-up I attend for sure!

It was a wonderful day. My son's were there and I was so glad they had the opportunity to see why I do what I do...because it brings so many women of color together, I love speaking about hair care, and most of all it just makes me happy.

Here are a few comments from guests who attended the workshop posted on Nappiology meet-up site:

Thank you Amber for your knowledge and loving spirit. You have educated, encouraged and inspired me. May God continue to bless you and all that you do.
Also, thank you De for your hard work and dedication to women and their natural hair. ~Monique

Thank you Amber for your knowledge and time. I really enjoyed your workshop. Also thanks De for organizing this enlightening event! ~Amber

My daughters enjoyed themselves; it was awesome. ~ Charles

Thank you Amber I really enjoyed myself yesterday. I gained so much knowledge. Thank you De for organizing the event. I had a great time. ~Yolandia

Meet Up Doo...

The previous post shows my hair style pretty much I just untwisted the twists and re-pinned my updo with hair that was twisted out instead of keeping it in twists...to me it gave this style a much more bold look.

Fro-Fest is around the corner...It's a FREE event so make sure you some out to celebrate Juneteenth with Nappiology,Inc.

Miss Jessie's is the Title Sponsor of the 2012 Best Southwest Juneteenth, Nappiology Fro Fest

Saturday, June 16, 2012

Time: 1-6pm

Desoto Civic Center

Bluebonnett Rooms

211 E Pleasant Run Rd

Desoto, Texas

VENDORS, WORKSHOPS, NATURAL HAIR showcase and sooo much more!

VENDORS - catering to natural hair

WORKSHOPS

Tranistion workshop by Denise Valentine - Niecy's Natural Hair Salon

Loc Styling 101 with Ms. Ray - Deep in the Roots Salon

HHG!!

Nappiology Fro Fest 2012!

2012-04-16T22:39:00.005-07:00

It happened again. Another one of those accidental doo's that I ended up loving....here's how I did it!

I twisted my hair in 6 large twists and slept in my satin bonnet. I didn't happen to fall asleep until around 2am, woke up at 6:30am to get my little one off to school, came home, and unraveled the twists. My hair was still very damp at the root after separating so I left it loose to dry for a few more hours. Those intended few hours turned into an all day thing...I was too busy to return back to it until later in the evening. It looked a mess just before bed. I was too sleepy to re-twist so I kept my fro out and slept in my satin bonnet...

Day 2...

I woke up took of the bonnet and this time my hair was completely dry so to soften my hair I generously sprayed some Deva Curl Mist-ER-Right Curl Revitalize so I could finger style it. It was so big I didn't want to style it up...I was kinda diggin' my fro at this point.

I repeated my nightly routine for 4 nights, sleeping in my satin bonnet, spraying Deva Curl Mist-ER-Right Curl Revitalize on my hair, followed up with reshaping my fro with my finger styling. The first photo was of my hair on day 5. My hair stretched more and more each day I wore my fro. My roots loosened a lot which definitely aided in the fullness of my fro and lessening shrinkage. I'll revisit this style for Fro Fest!

If you live in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area make sure you save the date June 16th (Juneteenth) Fro Fest presented by Nappiology, Inc.

Cost:FREE

Email: Nappiology@Gmail.com

Venue:DeSoto Civic Center

Address:211 E Pleasant Run, DeSoto, TX,

Hope to see you there!!

HHG!!

Embrace Your Roots: Houston Community College SE

2012-02-16T11:42:00.000-08:00

em·brace (m-brs): 2. to take or receive gladly or eagerly; accept willingly.

You never know why people are placed into your life. No matter how brief or how long the interaction is between someone you meet, there is often a larger plan in the making. This is certainly the case for me when I met my fellow braiding school classmate Tawanda Alexander. We met during a 3 day intensive hair braiding course to get our Texas state braiding license. She and I as well as 4 other women bonded, as if we'd known one another for years. I hadn't spoken to Tawanda since a few weeks after our class last August. A few weeks ago she reached out and invited me to come share my knowledge of natural hair care and speak as a panelist at Houston Community College's Embrace Your Roots event in honor of Black History Month. I was stoked and jumped at the opportunity. There was no way I could ever have passed up the chance to do what I love doing anyway which is talking about natural hair. My focus was to speak on product knowledge and hair styling options.

I was one of 2 panelists for the events, the other panelist being Michelle Lewis, Producer of her documentary called New Growth: The Natural Progression which was released in 2006. The film was shot in Dallas, Austin and Houston. The film was picked up by BETJ/ Black Stories Series which ran on the cable station for one year.

I wore my hair in large twists I'd done the night before on dry hair. Since I wasn't sure if there would be any models for me to demonstrate basic styling on I figured I demo my own hair. I used Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie.

The Venue

After Michelle gave shared her "hairstory" with us, it was my turn. I was nervous at first but once I got to talking and watched how attentive the audience was I was quickly at ease. The energy in the room as very warm and welcoming.

I briefly shared with the guests my "hairstory" as well sharing the events that lead me to embrace my kinky curls. Everyone in the audience was so attentive which helped to put me at ease. I felt they were really interested in learning more about what I had to share. It felt great.

I brought several products along with me. I wanted to appeal to those who had just began their healthy hair journey as well as the more seasoned Naturalistas in attendance. I touched on oils, butters, which are best and why, the benefits of using oils and how to custom an oil blend to address each individuals hair needs. I spoke on proper hair handling techniques, detangling from ends to roots on wet hair only using a large toothed comb which I also brought with me. I stressed the importance of using water and water based moisturizers and then sealing in the moisture using oil or butter. Michelle also spoke on her hair care regimen and the abundance of styling options shes had since going natural 13 years ago. She added that apple cider vinegar rinses are a big part of her hair care regimen to end dry scalp and itching.

The crowd grew...

I also touched briefly on the benefits of Ayurveda for hair. I brought along a box of amla powder and a bag of Henna. After discussing Ayurveda, Michelle and I opened the forum to questions...and boy were there plenty! I loved how the attendees were so involved.

One young lady asked Michelle to take her Sister locks down so the audience could see them...

Her hair was absolutely beautiful, thick, and long.

Next it was my turn...

Once my twist were unravelled, it was time to do a demonstration on one of the facilitators named Yolanda who had recently cut her hair short. All she did was wash it and allow her hair to dry without any product in it. I was glad that way I was able to demonstrate on the positive effect water has on kinky curly hair.

Since Yolanda opts for the wash n' go look, I used DevaCurl on her pencil sized curls. Her hair was gorgeous...I wished my son had gotten a close up shot on those curls.

We took more questions from the audience which lasted a good 45 minutes and even continued on after the closing.

...and the crowd grew some more...Even the men in attendance had questions and input on how they felt about women embracing their natural hair.

At closing Michelle and I were given Certificate of Recognition plaques for presenting by Tawanda. I was surprised and so thankful she'd given them to us to participating.

Lunch was then served, catered by Jason's Deli. Tawanda took into consideration I am vegetarian and hooked me up with a huge veggie filled salad.

While everyone ate, Michelle and I continued answering questions from guests who attended. I gave out my business cards, blog address and, Facebook page while answering questions from both men and women of all ethnic backgrounds. I was honored to have so many women mention they would actually be coming to Arlington to see me for an appointment. I look forward to it too.

I met some beautiful Sisters...I was honored to be there.

Michelle asked me to style her Sister locks back into a neat bun

...it came out so cute and she said she loved it. Unfortunately I my son didn't get a picture of the final look...but it was really cute.

Before leaving those still there who wanted to be included came up to take a group photo with Michelle and I.

Special thanks to my son James for helping with the photography. He was a huge support and even got several compliments on how beautiful his hair was too. I really enjoyed meeting new people and talking about healthy hair care.

HHG!

Full Moons and the Farmers Almanac: Best Days to Cut Hair in 2012

2011-12-30T14:59:00.000-08:00

Old wives tales have played a large part of African-American hair care. These tales have been handed down from generations and are still followed today with the same faith to their truths as when our ancestors first spoke of them. One that I heard over the years and recently spoke with a friend who actually follows it, is cutting/trimming hair only on a full moon and according to the Farmers Almanac there are specific days of the month that retard growth and other days that are supposed to increase growth. I figured one like this could easily be done since I have to trim my hair anyhow, no harm, no foul. I also heard from a fellow FB friend, actress T'keyah Crystal Kemah advises cutting hair on the new moon is best for growth. Although I'd never heard of it, I figured I'd add it to the list of dates.

The next upcoming date according to the Farmers Almanac to cut hair to increase growth will be December 30th and 31st, 2011, and January 3rd and 4th, 2012. My goal is to start the new year off with a healthy head of fresh ends and bouncy curls. The second half of this year I didn't care for my hair as well as I did the first year and focused mainly on styling. 2012 I vow to make my hair care a priority each week like I did during the first 7 months of this year. I can definitely tell the difference.

Big Chop 2012

I never will forget being on Twitter during the first week of this year reading and looking at tweet pics of Sister's who took the plunge. It felt so liberating even though I hadn't cut my own. Just seeing how far we have come...black women voluntarily cutting their hair and in some cases shaving was unheard of even just 3 or 4 years ago. For those of you planning to bring in the New Year with BC'ing I wanted to share the best days to cut your hair according to the Farmers Almanac and Moon Phases calender. When you visit the website you will find it not only lists the best days to cut hair for growth, it also lists the best days to start a diet to gain or lose weight, quit smoking, host a party, entertain friends, get married, retard growth (I guess this would be beneficial for eyebrows, underarms, legs, etc.), picking specific fruit or veggies for those of you who have gardens, and traveling.

Best days to cut your hair for GROWTH:

(1st Quarter dates for 2012)

December 30th and 31st

January 3rd and 4th

January 25th - 27th

January 30th and 31st

February 1st

February 4th and 5th

February 23rd and 24th

February 27th

Full Moon Dates for 2012

January 9th

February 7th
March 8th
April 6th
May 5th
June 4th
July 3rd
August 31st
September 29th
October 29th
November 28th
December 28th

New Moon Dates for 2012
January 23rd

February 21st

March 22nd

April 21st

May 20th

June 19th

July 19th

August 31st

September 16th

October 29th

November 13th

December 28th

I was hoping the Farmer's Almanac and Moon Phase Calender dates would coincide but unfortunately they don't. So more than likely I'll follow the almanac and choose one of those dates (probably the 31st) to give my hair a really good cut to start New Year 2012 off with a BANG!!!

HHG!

Happy 2B Nappy Expo, Killeen, TX

2011-11-27T15:27:00.000-08:00

Luvina Ann Norwood-Sabree (center) founder of Nappy Headers meet up group in Kileen, TX

Last week I took a short road trip to Kileen, TX to attend another natural/health hair expo in Texas. One of the things I hoped was that I'd see vendors I didn't at the previous expo I attended. There were plenty. I had such a great time. Here's a recap of my trip to Kileen...

Struck by so much beautiful brown beauty as soon as I walked in...as well as the Shea Moisture booth right at the entrance.

Goodies by Shea Moisture...

I stopped by to speak with Photographer Larry J. Stephens CEO of EncoreHD Hair Magazine come to find we were already friends on FB. EncoreHD Hair Magazine will feature natural hair styles and will be visiting Dallas, early 2012...I'm already signed up to participate!

Here's a booth I was happy to see again....these are the lovely Ladies of Lock Couture. As I browsed earrings at her booth the pretty Sis (I forgot her name) standing in the center of the photo below approached me and thanked me for mentioning and showing her work in the last expo post. That was sweet...feels good to know she got a chance to see it.

I love it!!

Shea goodies...I regret not taking a pic of the name of this booth but it was packed full of shoppers...I had to get in where I fit in just to get his shot.

I love incense!! I used to make them back in the day so I stopped and spoke with the owner for a bit. I tested a few scents and with the help from the owner, some he liked, some I liked, we both settled on Touch by Burberry. Been wearing it ever since...it's niiiice...

MaX Oil and Incense Kileen, TX

I just love this Sisters Artwork...I didnt get her info...big regret.

It was cute seeing all the little ones walking around with their faces painted :o)

I learned A LOT at this booth, My Divine Delivery. This Sister, Myquel Bender blends teas customed made with herbal combinations from customers request or she can suggest blends based upon what your own personal needs are. I stood around and listened as she enlighted other visitor on an herb used for female mood elevating...you could'a heard a pin drop.

You can find My Devine Delivery online [HERE]

Beautiful Melissa owner of The Urban Rose home accesories....

I'm a sucker for pretty packaging...Thanks Melissa!

You can check out more from or place orders from Urban Rose.com [HERE]

I HAD to patonize this Sister. It was love at first sight with her long pretty loc's and she sold the prettiest pure horn jewelry I'd seen in awhile. The company is called Earthbalisms. Offering product from fair trade, natural, a nd sustainable resources. Handmade soaps, bath bombs and more...for more info about Earthbalism products go [HERE]

...and of course I stood around this booth for a minute. I stood in awe at her speed, again, when grooming this Sisters loc's watching Malaika Tamu-Cooper owner of Dreads N' Heads Salon in Baltimore, MD. She also held a workshop during the expo.

Where there's henna...there's me...had to stop and get mine in... ;O)

Cute!

Riyike Jewels by Anike Faleti...so pretty. You can check out more of her designs when you visit her webiste [HERE]

400 Years Without A Comb showed on the big screen...nice.

I didn't catch this Brotha's name but he was the MC announcing the preformers and had major jokes..I was rollin'.

You can tell his hands were movin'!!..and lil' mama's too.

Black is so beautiful.

I didn't attend any of the workshops but I'm they were awesome and very informative. I stood in the lobby and on looked at the Sista's waiting for the next class.

I just love long loc's....

...and so I decided since I was in a city I'd never visted before which happened to me just next to the largest Army base in the world, I decided to walk around a bit.

Enjoying the Artwork posted in the lobby of the Convention Center....

I stopped and picked up a few brochures just in case I return and need to know whats poppin' in Kileen ;o)

On to Fort Hood. Luckily I was rolling with a friend who is an Army Vet and I was able to go on base. I was hoping I'd run into a few Naturalistas on base...and I did...passed out a few cards.

Army Headquarters

Expo Hair Do...super simple.

Courtesy of EncoreHD

HHG!

Highlights from Nappiology Expo 2011

2011-11-10T10:33:00.000-08:00

Me, Keisha Ricks of Nappy Bliss Hair Salon in DeSoto, TX, Ansylla Ramsey of My Hairitage Salon in Clinton, MD and De Phillips Johnson founder of Nappiology, Inc.

This was my 2nd time to have the pleasure of attending the Nappiology Expo and I was amazed at how Nappiology Inc founder De Phillips Johnson was able to out do last years event. This year Nappioloy added a pre-expo meet and greet event called Nappy Hour held at the Aloft Hotel, Irving,TX. I appreciated her holding this event because it gave attendees and vendors the opportunity to network and offered plenty of drink specials...even a signature Nappiology drink! It was great!!!

During Nappy hour I met so many wonderful people. One of them was a friend from Facebook Darnel Sanders who recently contacted me about a novel titled, Internal Vanity by Antonio Wingfield. The book is juicy and is about 4 adopeted sisters (with natural hair) from a small town in North Texas, thats all I needed to know, I bought a copy! I cant wait to sink my teeth into it! Natural hair drama begins, ;o)

I left Nappy Hour with TONS of samples...My clients will love these!!

I was so excited to attend this year. I'd learned of all the great vendors who were scheduled to be in attendance and all the workshops that were going to be held this year. Heres my recap of my day at the 2011 Nappiology Expo....

This years expo was held at the Hurst Convention Center in Hurst, TX...the place was HUGE!! I paid my $10 entry and received my welcome bag full of goodies!!

The Lobby

The entrance

As I entered through the expo doors the very first booth is shown above. It stayed busy, and the staff behind the booth worked diligently to answer questions by consumers. I was impressed.

Natural Hair pics everywhere!

Pure and Healthy Hair Salon's booth offered complimentary make~up!!

Great things happening at the Aveda booth!

My FB friend LaTonya Lewis of Aveda demo's a hair product for someone.

I stopped at the DevaCurl booth and ended up staying there for a good 20 minutes. I was happy to meet the woman in this photo Angie Damiani of David Dalton Salon. She trained in NYC at the Deva Chan Salon (owned by author of Curly Girls Lorraine Massey) and had tons of pics she shared with me of her clientele...all Black women!!! She shared that as long as heat, color, or any other harmful chemicals are on being placed on our hair there is no need to cut 6-8 weeks. I have known this for years and totally agreed with her. with that said I will be booking my appt with her for January 2012 for a nice reshape!

Ansylla Ramsey owner of My Hairitage Salon in Clinton, MD offered her services and again, another packed booth!

I had the pleasure of meeting the Sister wearing the twists and the tan vest to the right of the photo the night before at Nappy Hour and we exchanged business cards. I will definitely be checking out the Amazing Botanicals natural hair care line.

DJ Francis Jay of Neo~Soul Cafe' spinning on the ones n' two's lol...it was great having great music to listen to while walking around the expo!

Another booth offering hair services...this Sister was getting a scalp massage.

Riyike JewelsbyAnike Faleti

I love it!!!

My beautiful Facebook Friend, Designer Shoe Diva, Cassandra Russell...

Of all the photo's I'd taken at the expo, this on is hands down my favorite and the most meaningful. I was walking around when this beautiful Natualista, LaKeisha approached me. She didnt know my name but she definitely knew my blog. She eagerly shared that LuvMyKynxx helped her care for her hair better and that she refers all of her friends family and anyone who asks her about natural hair to LMK blog. She was sooooo sweet words cannot express. Her hair was shiny with big defined healthy curls. I felt proud and thanked her for her support....God is Great!!!

The beautiful Ms. Jane Carter of Jane Carter Solution hair care products. Her booth also stayed packed. When I took the photo she comment to me " I feel like such a Celebrity"...my response was..." you are". She is such a pretty woman.

I was happy to see natural hair Tee-Shirt designer B Naptural Apparel. I had to buy one, too cute!!

Exquisite loc designs by Lock Couture

This was my favorite booth. I know, I know...has nothing to do with HAIR but, it had everything to do with spirit. The owner of this booths merchandise hand paints Bible scriptures on rocks, plants, totes, and just about anything. I had to buy one she had already made below:

This is my favorite...my eldest sons name is Jeremiah and my birthday is 11/29...God spoke loud and clear ;o) and I'm livng his plan each day I rise!

This was another great booth...massages were offered to relax us Naturalistas while shopping.

I thought this dress was cute...well actually the brown one behind it which was a halter...I didnt buy it and now regret it. Online is still an option!

Another Salon representing loc styling.

Another jam packed jewelery booth...

I love to support local black owned beauty supply stores!!

Needless to say I thoroughly enjoyed this years Nappilogy Expo and look forward to attending next year and every year!! I walked away with a few goodies and tons of business cards.

Expo Hair and Outfit...

HHG!

3rd Annual Nappiology Expo

2010-11-04T17:33:00.000-07:00

November is Nappiology's three year Nappiversary!!!

We are an active social networking natural hair group that embraces and celebrates natural beautiful hair and nappy roots. Nappiology was established on November 17, 2007 as a meetup group and in March 2009 became incorporated. We have over 1300 members and growing.

Nappiology Expo

Natural Hair and Beauty Experience

Sunday, November 7, 2010

University of Texas at Arlington

E.H. Hereford University Center

Bluebonnet Room

300 W. First Street

Arlington, Texas 76010

www.nappiology.net

If you live in the DFW metroplex and want to join Nappiology Meetup Group click here!

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Expo will include:

Featured speaker: Rene Syler - www.goodenoughmother.com

Five (5) Natural Hair Care Workshops

Several Vendors - catering to those embracing their napptural beauty and style - we encourage that you bring CASH please!

General admission: $10 per person

"The use of the E.H. Hereford University Center at The University of Texas at Arlington does not imply endorsement of the event or the sponsoring organization by The University of Texas at Arlington."

Nappiology Expo Schedule - Sunday, November 7

10:00 – 7:00 p.m. Nappiology Expo

11:00 a.m. Workshop 1 – Making Natural Hair Care Your “Business” and Not Your “Hustle” - Rio A

12:15 p.m Workshop 2 – Rene Syler’s Natural Hair Journey – Rosebud Theatre

1:30 p.m. Workshop 3 – Hairlocking 101 – Rio A

2:45 p.m. – Bluebonnet Room

3:00 p.m. Workshop 4 – Hair Empowerment 101 – Basic Styling and Technique – Rio A

4:00 p.m. Workshop 5 – Transitioning 101 – From creamy crack to natural naps – Rio A

5:30 p.m. Natural Hair Showcase – Bluebonnet Room

If you need directions click here!

Parking is available in lots F12, F13 and 11

Nappiology Vendors

Row 100

100 - Dr. Linda Amerson

101 - Natural Beauty Salon

102 - Beauty for U

103 - Legacy Holistic

104 - Curly Chicks

105 - NappyBliss

Row 200

200 - Loc Soc

201 - Massage by Sheryl

202 - Forever Fit

203 - Arbonne

204 - Cush Cosmetics

205 - My Hairitage

Row 300

300 - Jane Carter

301 - Wellness Center

302 - Smell a Lishes

303 - Le Foxx

304 - Nappy Rutz

305 - Mind Body and Soul - Loving Your Hair

Row 400

400 - Milstan Thermal

401 - Allure Beauty Salon

402 - Anytime Beauty Supply

403 - Afro Angel

404 - Deep in the Roots Salon

Row 500

500 - Pure and Healthy Hair Salon

501 - Jewels by Anike

502 - Ori Organics

503 - Afrocentric

504 - Natural Hair Rules!

Row 600

600 - NuDred

601 - Macy - Carol's Daughter

602 - Wrap a Loc

603 - Afroveda

604 - 3 Sister's Beauty Supply

605 - Dreadn Headz

Row 700

700 - Taliah Waajid

701 - Big Eyes Pea Head

702 - Nkisi

703 - Blackball Classic

704 - PandL Accessories

705 - Nappiology

I am truly excited and have been looking forward for this event since I joined the Nappiology meet up group a couple of months ago. I will post plenty of event pics and look forward to networking and meeting new friends...hope to see every beautiful natural woman (or looking to become) in DFW there!

HHG!

Our Lessons Come From the Journey, Not the Destination...

2010-09-23T21:46:00.000-07:00

Hello blogger's, welcome to Luv My Kynxx. Here you will find helpful support/resources if you're considering or transitioning to natural hair.  In celebrating our journey we will gain peace and love of self, together.   I'm here to support, educate, share, learn, and help you love and embrace not only your natural hair, your natural you in every aspect of your life. This blog also is a support for my own journey towards obtaining my hair goals and accepting every part of who I am. I have heard women express their belief that going natural is a difficult transition. For some it may be. In my own journey, my sole purpose was simply to transition from a relaxer to natural. However, as my journey began there were also psychological transformations that took place within my mind first. Those changes were required in order for me to feel comfortable wearing my hair natural.  For some this step of the process is more difficult then others. Even when the desire to have natural hair is present.
  In our culture, striving for "good hair" has plagued our ability for true self acceptance. Relaxers, weaves/braids with improper tension on the scalp, and other harmful processes are being done to our hair, damaging our scalp thus making the goal for "good hair" an impossible task. I am a natural hair care stylist and student. I intend on learning all I can from all who are willing to teach about growing healthy natural hair.  In return I will share what I know about cultivating beautiful natural hair.  By natural I mean unaltered with relaxers, hair dyes, and other harmful hair care practices that hinder us from achieving beautiful natural hair. I will guide and show you how to take the first steps on doing so.
I see many instances where some women cannot go in public without some kind of extension ponytail, wig, weave or some type of hair added to their own regardless of how unnatural it may look, just to feel like they are being socialy accepted, clinging on to mainstream societies distorted view of what beauty is. These are some of the women I hope to reach, share knowledge with, and learn from.
I my goal is to support, encouragement, and love to every black woman/man/child who desires natural hair and has not embraced their true selves by sharing my journey in learning how beautiful and unique our hair is. By using the right hair grooming techniques and products and choosing hairstyles that protect our hair from damage, caring and growing natural hair no longer has to seem intolerable. Our various skin tones, our highly textured curls, koils, and kynxx, our broad noses, thick lips, our hips, and overall swag is ultra sexy. It cannot be duplicated by the masses.  Its time we show appreciation for the natural gift of outer beauty we have been given.  My goal is to create a Sisterhood/Brotherhood of strength, pride, confidence, humility, and love...and I welcome you to join me. Peace n' Blessings.

Duafe: Symbol of feminine consideration or good feminine qualities:
patience, prudence, fondness,
love and care - things associated with women