Steel Feather. Lace Elephant.

Fashion: Jump Around

noreply@blogger.com (P Roy) — Thu, 23 May 2013 05:06:35 PDT

"Jump Around"

Outfit Details After the Jump

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The Jumpsuit: the piece of clothing not everyone can wear, but is incredibly comfortable if you can pull it off.

And this piece, my friends, is a keeper! It is so fun and playful. It is also long enough for my higher heels (perfect since they have a wider leg) and lightweight enough to wear around town or even on the beach - SCORE!

But let's not forget about these cute shoulder cut-outs on this denim shirt! Oh how I adore it! It was on sale at F21, end of season, maybe $5. I'll take that since I don't want to cut up my own... and it probably would cost the same not including the time it would take to complete the task!

The only downfall of this jumper? Because of the bold print I can only wear it sparingly without being known as 'that girl' - BUMMER!

For more inspiration, visit www.peopleofcolors.com

Outfit Details:

Jumper: Urban Outfitters

Shirt: Forever21

Shoes: Asos

Necklace: Vintage Store (Thrift)

Earrings: Forever21

Do you wear rompers? If so, how do you style them?

Fashion: Polka Dots on Denim & Neon

noreply@blogger.com (P Roy) — Wed, 22 May 2013 02:00:09 PDT

"Polka Dots on Denim & Neon"

Outfit Details After the Jump

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Currently trending are neon, denim and polka dots - so why not put them all together? And that's just what I did! These neon pants are def a year round staple for me and I have never paired them with a denim shirt but I actually like it ... a lot. I kept the shoes pretty neutral in a brown color not to compete with everything else that is going on.

I switched up the shoe to a boot to give it another look - I'd definitely wear both!

For more inspiration, visit www.peopleofcolors.com

Outfit Details:

Shirt: Urban Outfitters

Pants: J Crew

Bootie Heels: Asos

Western Boot: Express

Earrings: Vintage

Watch: Michael Kors

Belt: Gap

Bracelets: H&M

How would you wear this polka dot denim shirt?

MANE Events - Bantu Knots... Do or Don't? [Bantu Knot Out Results Added]

noreply@blogger.com (P Roy) — Tue, 21 May 2013 15:02:21 PDT

Cute, right?

I wonder if I could wear these outside the house. Meh, probably not. But I would rock a bantu knot-out...

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I'm not going to lie, I am kindaaaaaa nervous about the results. The last time I did a bantu knot-out it actually wasn't as bad as I had envisioned, but that was 1 out of 1,240,430,824 tries! #exaggeration

But really, this is the first time since the last time and I... I just don't know. I should probably have more faith in this style but I tried a different technique this time. If it turns out nice, I will share. If not, it's back to the drawing board I go. Results to be posted tomorrow. Until then xOXo

ETA: Theseeeeeee are my results!!! I am definitely pleased! :-)

Once I do this technique again and it works *crosses fingers* I will DEFINITELY share. Can't wait... stay tuned!

Do you wear your bantu knots out?

This Vegetarian is going Paleo... Again!

noreply@blogger.com (P Roy) — Tue, 21 May 2013 02:00:01 PDT

As with any other lifestyle change, I can truly say participating in the Paleo challenge a few months back really opened my eyes into what I am consuming. Since then, I haven't been 100% Paleo, but have been very cautious on what I allowed myself to consume.

The time has come to detox and challenge myself (the boy is joining in) with the Paleo lifestyle again! Here is how we are going to tackle this challenge this time:

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30 Days. It's imperative that we go at least 25 days to see the changes we want to see, so why not go 30 Days?

No Dairy. No Processed Foods. No Sugar. A super negative? I started eating dairy again! It wouldn't be bad it if just settled with my body, BUT it doesn't. So it has to go!

I'm not going to lie, I am going to eat beans. And probably corn, too. I will also occasionally eat rice, but really stay away from pasta.

The boy can eat all the meat he wants! So, what will you eat? Pretty much everything I am eating already, minus the processed foods. I will say, being a vegetarian and going Paleo can be somewhat of challenge, but it won't be as hard as one might think. I found this cool shopping list on whole9life.com which is an outline for what vegetarians should purchase on the Paleo diet. I'm not a huge tempeh or tofu eater, so that probably won't be in my cart. Other than that, it just appears to be every fruit and veggie I can think of plus some beans and nuts. I can dig it.

Def will keep you all posted on the progress, too!

I'd like to invite all of you to join us in the challenge! Are you down?

Free E-Book: A Natural's Truth: Just Love Your Hair

noreply@blogger.com (P Roy) — Tue, 21 May 2013 05:13:16 PDT

Introducing P Roy, the micro-publisher!

I am EXTREMELY excited to give birth to my first e-Book:

A Natural's Truth: Just Love Your Hair

A Personal Experience Based How-To Guide on Embracing Your Natural Kinks, Coils and Curls: Just Love Your Hair

Newly natural or even a veteran in the game, there are times in which we doubt our methods, get frustrated with our outcomes, or just completely fall out of love with our locks. Developing a healthy relationship with your hair starts from within: you have to fully love and accept who you are in order to dismiss any dislike you may have for your hair and its various attributes.

This book will help the many natural hair, curly girls who struggle with embracing, working with, and loving their hair. P Roy assists the reader on how to embrace their tresses by sharing her personal experiences, her struggles and successes, her regimen, various hairstyles she has rocked, natural hair inspirations and any other information that could help someone who may be in a "where do I go, what do I do?" situation as she once was in with her hair.

This is a FREE e-book. To get your copy, you can visit the iTunes store (iPad only) or sign-up here (all other devices and computers)! Thank you for ALL of your support in advance - Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Share this book - tweet all about it!

This book is very much like having my website in the palm of your hands. Set up in a "FAQ" format, it's a very easy read and a very helpful resource!

I hope that this book serves as an inspiration and as an empowering tool to help you learn to love your hair!

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World Natural Hair Show Recap + Curls and Cocktails [Video]

noreply@blogger.com (P Roy) — Thu, 16 May 2013 05:21:04 PDT

Me and Saff Servin'

I know a lot of you all have been waiting for this post and my apologies for getting it out so late!

A couple of weeks ago, I had the pleasure of attending Taliah Waajid's World Natural Hair Show in Atlanta, GA. It was help on Saturday and Sunday, however I only went the physical show on Saturday.

I was excited to see some of my favorites at the show! I went with my sisters of CURL X and right when we got inside we saw none other than MsDanti at the Creme of Nature Booth!

More pics to follow>>>

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Meechy (MeechyMonroe) at the KurleeBelle Booth

Courtney with her company, The Mane Choice

Vaughn (MsVaughnTV) at the Entwine Booth

Charli + Me

Meet some lovely subbies/followers!

Nikki & I with Lexi (Lexiwiththecurls) & Kela (MsKelaBug)

Sister, Sister! <3

Diana (SistersWithBeauty) + Me

And naturally the party didn't stop there...
Fun times with the crew at Curls & Cocktails!

CURL X

Lexi (lexiwiththecurls) + Keyna (HalfieTruths) + Me + Ebony (eclark6)

Members of CURL X (Saffiyah, Nikki & Me) + Kenya (HalfieTruths)

Farrah (MahoganyBella) + Nikki (KnottiNikki) + Me

It was SUCH a pleasure! One of my FAVORITE IGers in the flesh <3 (HalfieTruths)

And later that night...

Ow owwww! Me + Nikki + LaRhonda (NaturallySupreme) + Danyelle (MsDanti)

I had a very good time at the WNHS! Until next time...

Did you attend the WNHS? How was your experience?

Good Music: Hot Singles, Summer Anthems?

noreply@blogger.com (P Roy) — Wed, 15 May 2013 06:17:19 PDT

In search of a summer anthem, I have currently been jammin' to these ladie's hot, new singles!

More music found after the jump >>>

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Tamar Braxton - The One

Mariah Carey f. Miguel - #Beautiful

Ciara - Body Party

Sevyn Streeter - I Like It

and of course, a throwback: Kelis - Protect My Heart

Which song would be your summer anthem?

Movies that Matter: Iron Man 3 and The Great Gatsby

noreply@blogger.com (P Roy) — Mon, 13 May 2013 02:00:02 PDT

(source)

Man oh, man... Hollywood has outdone themselves these past two weeks.

Id' like to consider myself a movie buff, but I can't stay that I am - fully. I do, however, LOVE going to the movies and seeing the latest whether it be with friends or by myself. I also take full advantage of On Demand (thank you, Comcast) and Redbox.

I said all of that to say that these two movies, Iron Man 3 and The Great Gatsby, are WORTH hauling yourself to the theater and spend a little extra cash for the experience.

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Iron Man 3 focuses more on Tony Starks than the character "Iron Man", but defines Tony as Iron Man, making sure that everyone knows they are one in the same... at least that's what I got from it. Without telling too much, the action in the movie is AWESOME as expected. The script is witty as I found myself laughing a few good times (like hard chuckle) and that's not typical unless I'm watching an all out comedy... and still that's questionable. Considering Iron Man 2 (to me) wasn't all the best, this made up for it. And I would suggest staying until the end (yanno, after credits and everything).

The Great Gatsby - where do I begin?! I read the book in 11th grade and no lie, it was a bore! It may have a lot to do with my mindset at that time in my life but I snoozed through that read. Fast forward to now, the book has a new meaning to me, so I was much excited to see that it was hitting the big screen with one of my favorite actors, Leonardo DiCaprio, as the lead. Not only are the costumes for the movie ON POINT (should be Oscar nominated), but that soundtrack?! I HAVE TO HAVE IT. In regards to the movie aligning with the book, meh - not so much. Story lines that were brought out was Daisy and Gatsby, as well as Myrtle and Tom so brushing up on the book isn't necessary. It is also long so be prepared to be there for a while! Worth it? Absolutely.

I was just inspired to read the book again. I guess I'll add that to my book queue.

Remember the word HOLLYWOOD when you're looking at these movies... expect extra-ness.

Have you seen Iron Man III or The Great Gatsby? What are your thoughts?

Natural Hair: How To| Flexi Rod Set & Curl Results Video Tutorial

noreply@blogger.com (P Roy) — Thu, 09 May 2013 05:08:37 PDT

Finally! I am on a YouTube roll right now -

Remember the Carol's Daughter Macadamia Heat Setting Foam I used a while back? Well, I also used that same product to produce these flexi rod curls! Video tutorial after the jump!

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Don't forget to Rate, Comment & Subscribe!

Have you used the Macadamia Heat Setting Foam? What's your favorite style?

Review: Jolen Creme Bleach for Eyebrow Bleaching & New Hair Dye [Video]

noreply@blogger.com (P Roy) — Wed, 08 May 2013 02:00:04 PDT

An Old Twist Out

So listen:
I recently got my hair dyed and was going to do a big reveal and everything on the blog but there are a couple of reasons why that didn't happen - one of those reasons being it is pretty much the EXACT same process/results from last year. You can click here to read more about that experience.

The last time I dyed my hair I did not bleach my brows to match, but upon further consideration, I decided this time that lightening my brows would be a nice way to complement the whole dye job.

So along with the help of McKenzie Renae's written experience, I did it. Now, I naturally do not have thick brows (thanks Mom), but what I do have, I like to be shaped and colored correctly. I'm just throwing that out there before someone says "well, your brows aren't really that thick". I know.

Back to the process!

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I created a video discussing what I was looking to do with my eyebrows and some FAQ's about my hair and dye. If you are interested in learning more about either, you can watch the video here:

Rate, Comment & Subscribe!

Product Used: Jolen

Price: Approx. $6 (via Walgreens)

Included in kit:

Instructions

Tray

Spatula

Bleach Creme

Accelerator Powder

Process: Please read the directions/instructions supplied by the company prior to bleaching any areas of your body. Perform a patch/skin test on your body 24hrs prior to bleaching any hair. If the product gets in your eyes, rinse eyes thoroughly with water.

Clean face completely.
On the tray, measure out 1/4 tsp accelerator powder with spatula.
Using same spatula, measure 1/2 tsp bleach creme.
Mix thoroughly.
Again, using the spatula, apply mixture to eyebrows.
Allow mixture to work for 10 minutes.
Clean off with cool, damp rag.
If a lighter color is desired, reapply and let mixture sit for 5-10 minutes and wipe clean.

I washed my face, again, immediately after I approved my results to make sure I didn't have any product left over.

Overall conclusion:

Jolen wasn't hard to use, wasn't messy (could be if you don't pay attention to what you're doing) and was very straight forward. I had to use it twice (15 minutes total) to get the desired color I was going for. It doesn't cost much ($6) whereas I would pay someone double if not triple to do the same exact thing I did, so it's worth the money. Would I use it again? Uh... yea!

Have you ever dyed your brows? What product did you use?

Webisode Series: Brothers With No Game

noreply@blogger.com (P Roy) — Mon, 06 May 2013 02:00:09 PDT

(source)

OMG, why didn't anyone tell me about this series? Based out of the UK, Brothers With No Game is a webisode series about four guys with - well, you can guess by the title, no game. However, they all have love interests and all of their situations have a twist making it even more interesting (especially in the finale).

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How did I discover this? YouTube actually made a recommendation for me to watch it via my mobile app (they STAY trying to make me watch videos). I noticed the name, decided to click and a SEASON (yes, I watched the entire season) later I am hooked.

The best part? They have nice, lengthy episodes! WOO HOO!! Full of substance I tell you ... and no commercials!

Patiently awaiting Season 2, man! We have GOT to get shows like this on television or at least have more funding for them to be webisodes. If you haven't checked them out, here is the 1st Episode:

Thank me later :)

Oh, and they also have a blog: brotherswithnogame.com
#teamremy

Have you seen the 'Brothers With No Game' webisode series? What are your thoughts?

Affirmations...

noreply@blogger.com (P Roy) — Sat, 04 May 2013 06:54:54 PDT

Thank you for the overwhelming response to the "Through it All" series! I have been getting a lot of positive feedback, and what ultimately was just a personal journey has helped so many along the way! Thanks be to God for using me!

I am not done with the series yet! On my end, I will still go through my daily affirmations; however, I will no longer be posting them to social media.

Don't be sad... there is so much more in store for "Through It All". In the meantime, you can follow me on my social networks Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook to continue to be inspired.

If you would like to revisit previous posts, click here.

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Good Music: Q.U.E.E.N. by Janelle Monae f. Erykah Badu

noreply@blogger.com (P Roy) — Thu, 02 May 2013 06:09:35 PDT

Janelle Monae does it again! As if I haven't been impressed by her since her first mixtape/album, The Audition, she teams up with another favorite of mine, Erykah Badu, to bring a hit - Q.U.E.E.N.

Take a listen!

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What are your thoughts on the song? Certified hit?

"Through it all...": 30 Days of Affirmations {Be Humble}

noreply@blogger.com (P Roy) — Thu, 02 May 2013 02:00:05 PDT

Day 18:

"Through it all: Be Humble."

Matthew 23:12

You will get recognized for great things you have done.

People will exalt your efforts and take notice of your accomplishments.

Remember the struggle it took to get where you are now.

Remind yourself of the hardships you have gone through in order to keep your perspective in focus.

Reminisce on the people that helped you along the way and your support group that never left your side.

Whatever good things that come your way, through it all, be humble. Whoever honors himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be honored. If you live the life God has intended for you to live, everyday you live will be a huge impact on someone's life and there will be no need for you to be boastful. Let your accomplishments speak for themselves and not you speaking for your accomplishments. Eating a slice or two of humble pie may not leave such a sweet taste in your mouth.

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Book Club - Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg

noreply@blogger.com (P Roy) — Wed, 01 May 2013 15:51:46 PDT

(source)

The book club has decided on a new book - Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg. I'm hesitant to read it, mainly because...

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The reviews haven't been too promising. I know - who cares what others think, right? So I'll probably head on over to the library to pick up a FREE copy before I commit my wallet to the cause.

Coincidentally, we decided on A Deeper Love Within for April, so I was ahead of the game. Hoping to stay ahead of the game, I going to start reading Lean In now. Until I sign up for a library card tomorrow, I will start with the sample on iBooks...

Have you read Lean In? What were your thoughts? Would you recommend it?

"Through it all...": 30 Days of Affirmations {Exude Confidence}

noreply@blogger.com (P Roy) — Wed, 01 May 2013 02:00:04 PDT

Day 17:

"Through it all: Exude Confidence."

Philippians 4:13

That one thing in life you want to do or have happen, but keep putting it off because you doubt that it will come into fruition:

Ideal Physique

Dream Job

Commitment to Your Significant Other

Moving to a New City

Starting a New Business

The doubt stems from the lack of confidence you have. Through it all, exude confidence. Step out on faith and remember that you can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens you. The word "all" includes every impossible situation you feel as though will not and cannot happen. Don't limit yourself and your capabilities. Be confident in yourself.

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Natural Hair: How I Shave My Own Sides

noreply@blogger.com (P Roy) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 05:30:00 PDT

Photo courtesy of stylishlyours

Big chops are one of the most liberating feelings any natural can experience. Some decide to get the big chop done in the salon, while others like to cut their hair in the privacy of their own homes. If you are one of those brave souls who is ready to embrace their natural texture all the way or want a new a funky look - this article is for you! I will explain what I did when I shaved my sides completely off...

Surprisingly, I get A LOT of questions about that. So here's to!

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Supplies:

Clips and/or Bands
Shears
Clippers
Clipper Guards (optional)
Straight Razor (optional)

Section off hair that you want to cut off. I had mini twists installed in my hair at the time. Instead of taking out of the mini twists, I should have used my shears and cut the section, but... I didn't. Then again, it was probably a good idea to take them out to make sure the part in which I wanted to cut along was as straight as possible... so never mind.

Secure sectioned hair with a band and clip back the hair you don't want to cut. It is SO important to make sure your hair is completely separate so that you don't mistakenly cut it. Also, make sure the band you put around the hair you want to cut is loose enough to cut under (not tight to the scalp)

While hair is banded, use your shears to clip hair as close to scalp as possible. It will eliminate any long hair in your clippers and you'll get a closer shave (IMO).

With the clippers (and a guard if you so choose), shave the area of your head evenly. I used the 1/4" guard initially, but wanted it lower so went to 1/8". I have even used the clippers sans the guard and gotten a "baby butt smooth" effect... but it really depends on how low you want to go.

Completely optional: With a straight razor, line up your hair line. I like for my hairline to look crisp so I use a straight razor to keep it in tact and looking in tip-top shape.

Easy, right? Now, these are the steps that I USED PERSONALLY. When in doubt, consult a professional. YouTube was my professional and it taught me what NOT to do. When I decided to do the process by myself, I found that this was the easiest process for me. It didn't take long and I LOVED my results.

Have you ever cut or shaved your own hair? What steps did you use?

"Through it all...": 30 Days of Affirmations {Choose Freedom}

noreply@blogger.com (P Roy) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 13:23:41 PDT

Day 15:

"Through it all: Choose Freedom."

Galatians 5:1

Free spirit, that's what you want to be, but what happens when you cannot get passed the hoopla in your life? Slavery comes in many forms these days, however, through it all: choose freedom. Your current circumstances should not have you enslaved. Who Christ sets free is truly free indeed. Make sure that you stay free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. Don't allow society, people or situations to restrict freedom.

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Style with Eden: Atlanta, GA Edition

noreply@blogger.com (P Roy) — Sat, 27 Apr 2013 02:00:03 PDT

Last night I had the pleasure of attending the Style with Eden Event in Atlanta, GA at the W Hotel with my beautiful sister Nikki. Expecting to be late due to traffic, we walked in softly only to find that when we arrived (30 minutes late to be exact) that people were in line to start munching on the goodies set aside for consumption - and to mix and mingle with cocktails!

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With the down-to-earth homies Peace & Alex

Myliek, owner of curlBOX and myself

We found our seats, every other one decked out with a Juicy magazine (one of the official sponsors of the event) and a nice detailed letter from Eden Body Works. The atmosphere was perfect. I got to meet and speak with the likes of McKenzie Renae (not pictured), Alex the MUA, Peace of Gurlish Curls, Myleik owner and founder of curlBOX and the panelists: Maeling Murphy of Natural Chica, Mattie of Mattieologie, and Danielle (Dee) Carrington - Hair Stylist Extraordinaire. The host of the event was Ylorie Anderson and the owner of Eden Body Works, Jasmine Lawrence, also graced us with her presence.

The panel shared their experiences on how they got started on their natural hair journey and also touched on their personal style. There were also two models in which Mattie and Dee styled from head to toe, both looking exquisitely fabulous.

To begin the Q&A portion of the night, Ylorie asked the audience to stand "if you are 100% happy with the hair that you have on your head. Approximately 75-80% of the room stood up, and from there true discussion began.

All of the panelists addressed questions from the crowd, including some of the following:

Add caption

So, I didn't stand because I don't like the frizz in my hair. I can't stand it actually and I very rarely wear it out.
I have issues with my hair because it doesn't last in hair styles; I'm still trying to figure out what works for my hair. I get that %85 press and the next day it's back to an afro
I have so much shrinkage and if you saw it straight, it would be down to here (pointing to shoulder length).

Mae & Mattie looking fab!

Dee provided one of the most classic answers, which was a resounding answer amongst all of the panelists:

"When we do client's hair they've said "I've done that, I've done that.." but it comes to a point in time where you have to get used to your hair like, 'Ok, this is it. My hair is frizzy'. Embrace it! Like when I finish my twist out and it gets frizzier, I love it. Trick yourself - you have to!"

Me and Dee (my new friend)

The remainder of the night touched on topics such as spousal appreciation of hair and discussion about the new product line launched by Eden Body Works - Coconut Shea. Upon leaving, everyone in attendance was given a gift bag with some of the Coconut Shea line (and it smells SO amazing - reviews coming soon)!

Style with Eden is definitely an event you do not want to miss!

Interested in attending? Washington DC, you are up next! For more information, please follow Eden Body Works on Twitter and Instagram.

(l-r) InHerShoesBlog owner Renae Bluitt, Mattie, Dee, Ylorie, Jasmine (Owner of Eden Body Works) and Mae

Did you attend Style with Eden? How would you describe your experience?

"Through it all...": 30 Days of Affirmations {Monitor Energy}

noreply@blogger.com (P Roy) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 02:00:09 PDT

Day Ten:

"Through it all: Monitor Energy."

1 John 4:1

All that glitters is not gold. Everyone who smiles in your face is not who they claim to be. Through it all - monitor energy. Do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world. And never forget: the energy you give out is the energy you will get in return. Love and light.

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"Through it all...": 30 Days of Affirmations {Eat Clean}

noreply@blogger.com (P Roy) — Sat, 20 Apr 2013 02:00:01 PDT

Day Six:

"Through it all: Eat Clean."

Genesis 9:3

Feeling sluggish, sick and not up to your best? How can you carry out a positive life if you feed yourself with foods that give you no strength? Through it all, eat clean. God has given you every moving thing that lives on this earth, just as he has given you green plants. He has given you those things in which will sustain you and keep your body functioning in tip-top condition. Be careful of what you consume - not only mentally, but also physically.

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Fashion: 10-Day's Worth of Fashion in a Carry On

noreply@blogger.com (P Roy) — Thu, 18 Apr 2013 09:00:01 PDT

I absolutely disdain packing - but as stated before, I consider myself to be somewhat of an expert packer. Why? Because how hard is it to pack for a weekend with just a carry on alone? Try 10 days worth of fashion in a carry on. What did you say? Check in a bag? I'll save my $25.

And if you want to save your money, here are some pointers you can follow in order to pick your wardrobe for 10 days and pack most efficiently!

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Write out your itinerary. What will you be doing while you are out of town? Plan an outfit for each one of the activities - weddings, funerals, night out with the girls, shopping trip with mom, working out... whatever it is, write it down.

Check your inventory. When I was younger and in this "ultimate baller" mentality (we all have been there) I would buy new clothes for the occasion of simply traveling to some other place (even it was down the street). As I have gotten older, I realize that the joy of not living in the place of travel is no one knows what's in your closet! Shop your own closet, figure out what you have for each occasion (because more than likely you already have it) and pull it out.

But I have worn this black dress so many times and it's all over every social network! If this is you, I commend you for wearing your favorite black dress as often as you like (ain't nothing wrong with that), but I also encourage you to take joy in accessorizing. If you absolutely have NOTHING and I mean you have nothing to wear, write out what you potentially need, but don't go shopping just yet! Build the wardrobe that you can with what you have before shopping.

Choose items that you can mix and match. What's the point of packing separate outfits when you space is so limited? You may actually have to wear some items multiple times (multiple ways) so it's best to pack items that will not dirty easily.

Start with your shoes (remember to limit yourself to four pair, including the ones you will wear), then clothes, then your accessories. Think like this: Your shoes are your foundation, your body is the frame, your clothes are the exterior of your "house" (your body), and your accessories are the finishing touches/decorations (in that order).

If you are afraid that you need to wash these items before wearing them again, pack some powder detergent so that you can wash them at night and hang them to dry (assuming you will not have access to a washer/dryer).

Try on the items you pulled from your inventory. I cannot stress this enough - try on EVERYTHING from your head to your shoes exactly how you envision it on your body. Doesn't look like you thought? This is where your accessories come into play. Switch up your accessories - add a scarf, take away a necklace, add some bracelets, maybe it needs a hat - try on EVERYTHING.

Take a picture in the outfit or write down what you have picked to pack. Use your smart phone and snap a picture of what you have decided on before you take it off. It takes all of two seconds, really... To expedite the process, I change my shoes and accessories, maybe add a jacket or whatever, and snap another picture. Small little changes in your outfit constitute as a whole, right? RIGHT.

Not feeling the pictures? Just jot down what you have planned to wear with what. Either way, you will be able to remember what you tried on and what you liked best so in case you have to get dressed fast, you can change clothes and go!

Clean up. Put away the items that you will not use and make your closet come back into order. The worst thing is coming home to a dirty closet (this has happened to me TOO many times, and I can say that I actually prefer to clean it before I leave than when I come back)!

Go shopping. Optional. This should be your absolute last step in the process, so don't wait until the last minute to pack your bag JUST IN CASE you need to go shopping. Trust me, if I am trying to save $25 to avoid checking in a bag, I know I don't want to drop $25 on new clothes... I'm just saying!

Look forward to a post that details exactly what I packed and how I wore it. I think it's necessary to have a visual associated with this type of task (some of us are visual learners).

If you would like pointers on how to pack an actual bag, check out this post here.

Have you ever packed for a 10 day trip in a carry on bag? What are some points you have for picking out your wardrobe?

"Through it all...": 30 Days of Affirmations {Embrace Change}

noreply@blogger.com (P Roy) — Thu, 18 Apr 2013 02:00:10 PDT

Day Four:

"Through it all: Embrace Change."

Ecclesiastes 3:1

New job in a new location (with a new climate) with a new relationship and a new set of people - what a drastic change! To everything there is a season and time for every purpose in this world. Change is essential for growth, so why not embrace it? Continue to change or stay stagnant, you choose.

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"Through it all...": 30 Days of Affirmations {Speak Life}

noreply@blogger.com (P Roy) — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 02:00:06 PDT

Day Three:

"Through it all: Speak Life."

Proverbs 18:21

Ever said something negative about someone, about a situation or even about yourself and later regretted what you said? Your tongue has the ability to speak life and death over any situation. In whatever you say, you will have to deal with the consequences, good or bad. Why not speak life over a situation? Change your thoughts, change your words, change your life.

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Good Music

noreply@blogger.com (P Roy) — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 09:00:04 PDT

One of my homegirls reminded me of some of my international favorites... I just HAVE to share:

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Zee Avi - Concrete Wall

Anjulie - You and I

Daley f. Marsha Ambrosious - Alone Together

Jessie Ware - Night Light

Yuna - Live Your Life

Who are some of your favorite international music artists?