Welcoming new Ideas in life!!

Be a Consistent Blogger

2013-11-15T20:09:00.002-08:00

Consistency is the name of the game. Once you have found your target market using the perfect niche, you must be consistent. As routine as the daily paper, or checking your facebook page you have to be consistent. Consistency does not mean boring but it does mean that you are focusing on content, finding new ways to present it and capturing your readers attention. Giving great information to the point they have to come back to get your expertise on the topic.

My major problem is this very thing.  The fact that I am so random sometimes kills traffic to my blog. Consistency in ONE area is important. I love everything and through my experiences in life I have great insight on several areas. That isn't a problem if you are blogging for the sake of blogging. However if you are blogging to make residual income that is not going to suffice.
                                                                   picture from http://petsforlife.com.sg/news/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Dog-Bored.jpg

What you need to do, find a topic that you can talk about in your sleep. You know all about it. In and out up and down. A topic that would have your audience wondering if you were the actual inventor of the niche. Grab it and run with it. DO NOT mimic what is obviously already being done in that niche. Take a minute and put your own spin on it. Just because there are billions of blogs on fashion bring your own eye, opinion and review of the thing. Remember you have your own audience and it's not the same as the next blogger.

Find your rhythm. That simply means find the day or time that blogging can be done. When are you at your most creative. If writing in the morning is when all your creative juices flow then do it then. In the beginning you may want it to be daily or even twice a day. As you begin to get a following you may want to do it 2 times a week, or weekly. Trust me there will always be something to talk about if it's your passion. No matter what angle blog about it. I know this seems elementary but the truth is some of us write fervently for the first month, then give up a 3 months in because we don't have a following. Don't expect to get a following even with an awesome routine at least for 1 year and I would say anything shorter you have an actual celebrity guru in with you.

All in all be consistent.  The more you write the more often your name will hit the wonderful world of Google. I

Make Your Blog Stand out

2013-11-13T08:01:00.000-08:00

I am still fairly new to blogging. Despite the fact that I have been on blog spot since 2011. I have just found a consistency or should I say a discipline in blogging. For the thousands of us left that actually enjoy writing or helping others in any given niche I want to send a word of encouragement.

Keep Moving Forward! You, like myself may have an audience of two, you may not think that your content is interesting or good. Let's face it in 2013 in this world of microwave celebrities and reality stars turned celebrities, it can be hard and discouraging to write to an audience that is constantly sensationalized by Reality Shows, but Keep Moving Forward! Blog for the love and passion of your niche. Let your individuality and expertise stand out. Blog because you have a witty or unconventional topic. Blog because you LOVE to write and you still view writing as an art blog. Blog, Blog, Blog, for goodness sake!

I know everyone is trying to find out how to get traffic, make money and keep there followers coming back for more, I say that it's HOGWASH. I know that guru's will beat their brow at me for not being more practical and realistic. But in this world of social media everybody is looking for a come up and everybody is looking for a get rich quick 15 minutes of fame road. I think that is awesome; however, focusing entirely on the dollars creates a JOB! Yes you get paid to work but you find yourself enjoying it just as much as the 9-5 you are trying to replace. It creates a frustration of trying to be so unique that you stop being YOU-NIQUE, stand out.

Keep Moving Forward! Whether 1 or 1 million read, comment or respond blog from your soul. Post from the random thoughts, and quirky ideas. There is an audience for you. There is a platform and revenue that advertisers will flock to have on your site. So be authentic and amazing Keep Moving Forward! Inspire those who will soon view YOU as the next guru in your niche. Be you but most of all Keep Moving Forward!

Review: Jamaican Mango & Lime

2013-11-12T17:01:00.003-08:00

Rasta Locks Twist Jamaican Mango & lime Protein Conditioner, Whew! That's a mouth full.
I ran into this product during one of my many "window shopping product searches". Of course it was tucked away in the row or plethora of natural hair products. Honestly, I never even heard of this line so I was extremely pleased and mesmerized to stumble upon this rare gem.

First what I loved about this product, I loved the color of the bottle. I know that seems so elementary but this was the main reason that I even noticed it in the sea of so called natural hair product. The bottle was vibrant, the bottle was fun, for goodness sake the bottle was yellow! Jamaican Mango & lime is packaged with easy to read ingredients and easy to read was enough for me to pick it up and finally purchase it with its easy on the pocket cost, ranging from $4.89 to $5.99. I must say it was a steal.

So it's true, I purchased this only because of the package and not to mention the intense and I do mean INTENSE fragrance! I had to take a whiff of this stuff on my way to purchase it! The smell was heavenly. It has a tropical or Island scent of lemon, lime and mango fused together. I absolutely love scents. It doesn't matter what scent it is as long as it smells good and this fragrance is heavenly.

The consistency is perfect. Not to thick not to thin just right. Now for the technical parts. I often co-wash my hair. This means I often forgo the shampoo stage and use conditioner instead of shampoo. My hair is currently not Locked! This product is for those whose hair is in a natural loc or often twist state. That does not mean that it cannot be used on loose naturals it just means that my hair isn't loc'd and I may not have been able to receive the fulleness of what the product was meant to do.

It states that it

strengthens locks
prevents breakage
moisturizes
natural conditioner

My favorite of the 4 proclaimed actions that I expected and what it actually did for my naturally loose tresses was prevent breakage. I found less strands after as little as 3 co-washes and I also perceived that my strands were strengthened. I give this product a score of a 79%.

Here's why:

The smell was phenomenal. If you are someone who does not like strong scents I would suggest steering clear from this product line. Their products pack a punch and I love it. It's an awesome change to the normal vanilla, cocoa butter scents that many product have. 20%

The packaging caught my I. Many times I find the packaging to be a mimic of another line that could be easily confused (pink lotion and pin motions are the same except the wording is in a different color) Their package is vibrant beautiful easy to distinguish and most importantly easy to read.) 20%

Directions and ingredients. Not all the ingredients are organic but I that is not an issue for me considering that more than half of the ingredients are. They are also extremely easy to read and follow directions in both English and French so for me that's another 15%

Here's where the points are deducted. The actual efficiency of what the product proclaims to do. It is supposed to do4 things two of which would be to be a natural conditioner and moisturize your hair. it definitely fell short in these areas for me however I take in account that I am a loose natural given my final score in this area 10%

I know that this score is mediocre but let's keep in mind that we need our products to actually do all or close to all of the main areas that we want out of them so for the idea of being a Protein conditioner I give it a 14%

My final opinion on Rasta Locks Twist Jamaican Mango & lime Protein Conditioner, I would buy this again. It does clean your hair and give a refreshing cleansed smell. I liked the consistency however desired a little more thickness because I am a loose natural. The slick or ease during detangling was average. But the scent and ability to strengthen my strands was what won me over.

What are some of your thoughts on this product? What id you like or dislike and what did I forget to mention.

My stress reliever

2013-11-04T14:20:00.001-08:00

I seriously like to do 2 things when I'm in a major funk. They are a bit weird and a little unconventional but I'll share it with you anyway. LAUNDRY and BAKING!!! Okay, I said it.
Just imagine your frustrated, your upset, your sad or just in a funk! These two things somehow sore me into a place of refreshing, sweet clean thoughts.

Let me elaborate. Many times in life we all just want to begin over again. Get a second chance, a revise. When I sit and I'm bogged down by life's issues I begin by first deciding which of the two LOVES I need to do and which I can actually afford time to do.

Baking that's self explanatory. It has all life's ingredients mashed together and melts together wonderfully. It blends and dances into a beautiful aroma that just causes life to exude happiness from all worries. Your a kid again indulgent into the sweet affair of savory bites. But between the two this is usually the relief of stress that I use when the family is in a funk. I mean after all a spoon full of sugar will let the "misery" of life go down.

Laundry is usually my go to stress relief. Sorting out the colors or problems of the week. Colorizing them so they won't bleed over into the other garments or issues of life. Choosing the level of heat that needs to tackle the stain. Does it need a gentle tone of cold water or a hard scornful you won't defeat me level of wash. Putting them into there perspective wash cycles with my choice of detergent to wash away all that has tried to cause me to either throw a garment away or second guess if it is still my favorite piece is AAAWWWWEEESOMMME! That final wash gives you a chance to once over decide if a more permanent decision is needed....BLEACH! This is some heavy enforcement it's permanent, it's aggressive but tough situations call for it.

The awe of just sitting and watching the colors emerge through the class, watching the suds fill the basin, just watching the concern of "will these things get washed clean" erases with each rinse. RINSE. Finally it's ready to be dried out and finalizing any area that need be complete.

What are some unconventional ways you relieve stress in your lives.

What's Your "Niche Market"

2013-10-29T12:09:00.001-07:00

I have got to be honest. In the beginning I did not understand the whole idea behind blogging. What I did know are two things, one that you have to at least enjoy writing and two know something about blogging. What I didn't know was there is actually a formula to how successful you can be at the two. This formula presented itself kind of like a secret. The thing that everyone kept talking about but never fully explained it thoroughly enough to make the little men in my head put it together. What was the secret? "a niche market".

Did I even need one? couldn't I just write a series of journal entries on my day to day life, post them and call it a day? The answer, yes, you could. You could write random blogs of your thought and daily routine. You can post to the masses how hideous your hair was, how your dog Bubbles, ruined and embarrassed you on your date and how the color you picked for your room makes you feel all bubbly inside. You can do this and it would be the cheapest venting therapy you ever had because quite frankly unless you're an A-list actress I doubt anyone would care. Trust me I did this and from experience it did not yield the results in terms of traffic that I was looking for. In fact many of us did this and it was fulfilling. The excitement of just putting it ALL out there is
exhilarating and empowering and as exciting as it was it goes away.

Time went on. Before long I began to desire responses to my day. Insight to my writings and quite honestly some Mullah for my efforts. Between the two bloggers I found myself becoming the latter so a "Niche market" quickly became a focus of interest. As fulfilling as my first blog is which today I use to inspire, encourage and motivate new desires began to arise. So what exactly should my focus be? is what I had to ask myself. Well after scrolling and listening to all the guru's and fancy pants explain in the most technological way I have reduced it to my understanding to mean: a focus, an interest or topic that is studied and then shared based on your knowledge, skill, interest or experience in the area. A good old fashion hobby of interest. For example a niche focuses on the components back to the very inception. The "niche" is what guru bloggers use to keep there audiences attention.

My niche is quite simple...I Love trying new things! Now as you might have thought there are millions of new things out there! But I decided that, that is MY NICHE Market. I may focus heavily on one area versus another but new stuff is my love. Life everyday gives a brand new 24 hrs so my niche market deserves to be refreshed just as much. So when you want to know how a new product REALLY works ask me, heard about a new restaurant tucked away I'm your girl. Have a new product that YOU yourself have created and want an honest review I'm your guinea pig. So sign up check in and let me know what new ideas you have welcomed into your life.
So come explore life with me on Welcoming Ideas To Life!

Rise and Shine

2013-10-29T06:44:00.000-07:00

I am so proud of myself this morning. It's 8:30am and I am already up on cup of tea number two and ready to take on the day. Let me bring you guy's up to speed for clarity...I AM NOT a morning person. I have always been the "burn the midnight oil" kinda gal. I would stay up until the morning and then sleep the entire morning off and just to be fair, I'd sleep a bit of the afternoon away as well.

It was only recently that I even grasped the concept or the importance of rising early. This came one day when I had an appointment in the morning and when I say morning I mean 7am early bird special kind of morning. This was the type of morning where calculating a 40 minute ride and looking half way human is needed. This meant waking up, or in my case snoozing until 6am. Don't judge me. I had only been sleep for 4 hrs. prior to this moment. It was then that I found that the morning had a personality of It's own.

The entire time I prepared for the meeting my thought's raced in my head. I struggled with trying to figure out why on earth people WILLINGLY "rise and shine"! I personally enjoy the short term affair that I have each evening or in my case morning, with my bed as I toss and turn and allow the comforter to embrace and warm me through the night. The sheer thought of having to be jolted up into the mornings rigid merciless air to "take on the day" puzzled me and left me feeling that, THAT, was for the birds. Yet, here I was being forced to endure what others seem to take pleasure in...embracing the day.

To my surprise after reluctantly showering, prepping and dressing I figured I may as well adjust my attitude to fit the day. I mean really adjust my attitude because there is nothing worst than an early bird on a night owls watch wanting nothing more than to go to bed early! I put on a happy face and trudged my way out the door. I would be lying if I said the crisp morning air was riveting, but I would also be lying to say it wasn't.

picture compliment of magazine.fourseasons.com

I passed morning joggers, school children, messengers. I watched neighbor's engage in morning conversation, regulars at the gas station engage in friendly banter. I mean I was thinking WHERE ARE YOU PEOPLE THE REST OF THE DAY!!! This is where they are enjoying the fresh start of their day.

The morning is like the earth's beginning of a natural wash cycle. It has the smell of fabric softener and the beauty of newly pressed garments. The beauty of the sun rise showing off the pureness of the day. It doesn't force you, or provoke you it gently brushes you and places a friendly rayed invitation to enter it. It can be entered begrudgingly or welcomed with open arms. But make no mistake about it, it will come and what you decide to do with the first part of this day determines the outcome of the remaining portion.

Have a beautiful morning and a productive day!

My Blog On Life

2013-10-28T20:32:00.003-07:00

I was very surprised to find that so many people displaying such awesome talents. I'm sure you have ran into one of them, after all there are a million blogs out there? There are even several that hold a very similar name to mine "Joyfullexpressions"! Crocheting colored scarves and hat's, providing up to date top of the minute fashion trends and my favorite the baker's blog, with all their intricate details that they single handily carve into these elaborate masterpieces. These blogger's have settled into their niche and they OWN them.

That brings me to my blog. I absolutely LOVE LIFE! I LOVE LIFE! I know that I said that already but I really love it and I love to write about it. This is to apologize for my lack of a niche My blog won't be consistent. It won't settle into "A" niche. It will be the best blog about life. I will blog about my ups, my achievements, my promotions and my fantasies. I'll blog about my loves, my passions and how I have been crushed and abandoned and hurt and miserable all in the same breath.

My BLOG will be about LIFE and how I plan to embrace it, how I feel, what I hate and how stupid of a boss I have. Life will be my niche. I mean everyone else has already settled into a piece of it and since I still haven't seen all that life has to offer I'll have to invite you along on this journey.

Fight Back!!!!! Td Jakes

2013-10-22T14:35:00.001-07:00

Saving, when your already on a Budget!

2013-08-30T14:10:00.000-07:00

In today's economy everyone is trying to pinch a penny. In groceries, in gas, even in the utilities that we use in our home. I'm sure that you have heard every possible way to save. From energy efficient appliances, car pooling and even the good old fashioned put the rock in the toilet to reduce water usage. We have heard it all! I'm sure you don't mind finding yet another way to save more than a penny but rather a dime. Here are a few innovative ideas to not only help you save but to also help you be a little greener in some areas.

Jars, cans. You know how you have been itching to buy an organizer for the bag of cotton balls, q-tips and do dad's that you have all over your bathroom? Well that won't be necessary. Simply save the old spaghetti jar's and use them for that purpose. To make it tad bit fancier purchase a dollar can of spray and add your own since of color to the lids and there you have it. you have given the jar's a second life, fixed your clutter problem and saved mother earth all in one thought.
Unconventional Furniture covers. Those drapes that you purchased before sizing. The sheet's that you lost the receipt to both can be used to reupholster that hideous couch that you can't stand to look at. Simply use the pattern, which you obviously love and drape it over the cushions. To hold them in place tuck some velcro in place or seal with safety pins or old broom stick that fits snugly under the cushions. It will add some much needed character to the room.
Do you really need cable. Guy's if you work 45 hours a week, and the kid's are at camp, school, and when you get home your preparing for the next day do you really need cable? Your on the Internet, your playing your Wii, PS3 or Xbox (purchased from the pawn shop) do you really need cable. When you surf the channels and it takes you 15 minutes to find a movie or something you actually want to watch do you really need cable. This is not a necessity. Save.

Trade out your curtains. Simply switch one from the bedroom to the living room and see the difference in the atmosphere and how just a slight change of color or texture adds life. You can also use those curtains to spice up the bathroom. For this thrifty fix be sure to apply a shower liner so that they are still in tip top condition when your ready to send them back to the room.

Eat your center pieces. When you go to the grocery store the same lemon's or oranges that you make that delicious summer drink with will add loads of color to your dining room, living room or even kitchen area. But don't stop with just oranges and lemons, add apples and melon's go wild with your choices. Simply place them in a glass bowl or vase and watch an instant splash of summer color enter into the room, all while adding a healthier snack choice for the family.

No bleach, thank you. While your at it, take a break from the harsh chemicals that many detergents and household cleaning products possess. Simply grab an orange or lemon from your center piece and use it as a cleaner. Squeeze 1 whole lemon or orange, 2 cups of warm water and 3 tbs. of baking soda into a spray bottle. This solution can be safely used in your bathtubs, sinks, stainless steel kitchen, appliances and more. Be sure to shake vigorously to mix and you not only have a chemical free cleanser but you also just deodorized, cleaned and decorated all for the price of a sac of lemons or oranges.

Skip the dryer. Why purchase fabric softener with the scent of outdoors when you can actually hang your clothes outdoors. Even living in an apartment can allow this to be done. Now for this you may have to purchase a dollar line of rope to hang your garments. If you choose not to, use chairs that you already own to drape several pieces of your wardrobe to air dry and reduce your utility bill. Now you have fresh outdoor scent with minimum utility used.

Facial cleansers/Moisturizers. Using baking soda, measure a dime size into your palms and apply to a wet damp face. Now slowly using circular motions massage into your skin. Do not scrub because it may burn your skin and cause irritation. This will clear up black heads, white heads, and your overall complexion. After this step use an avocado or honey mask for 15 minutes to add moisture. Be sure to use a ripe avocado for easy application and either item can be used generously. These items will counteract the dry affect that baking soda can have on your face. This is an application that I would use once a month and alternate months if your prone to breakouts.

Bag's are my favorite. Reusing them to grocery shop is not the only way to save. Grocery bag's or your local retail bag can be used as trash bag's, shower cap's, hot oil treatment caps, food covering's, shoe protector's in the rain (be sure to double up on this one), paint covers, and small paint project tarps. My son who is prone to nose bleeds often ends his night with a morning stain. To reduce this I put a thicker bag over his pillow and then simply apply his pillow case and save the pillow. Using plastic bags for food preparation such as flouring of chicken or marinades also reduces clean up time.

Old worn out clothes. Old tattered t-shirt can be re purposed into a rag for cleaning purposes. Simply tear a shirt into 4 equal parts and use it for just about any clean up needed. Also if you have children, save those old ratty flat sheets for art project, nail polish session etc. This will save the furniture and carpet as well from those accidental spills. Be careful with shirts with heavy dye. These shirts will leave streaks when used on white walls.

Toothbrushes. Yes, a toothbrush can be used to save those old worn out shoes that need just a little elbow grease. Using a detergent of choice and a little water can revive those favorite gym sneakers in no time. So for the price of a toothbrush you can save a very pricey pair of sneaks.

Stocking and Tights, Oh, My! You may never have thought of the elasticity that many pantyhose have and they are ridiculously inexpensive. Often they are the same price as head bands and scrunchies. By simply snipping the waist area of a pair of stockings you can create a cool and inexpensive alternative to your headband dilemma. If you venture a little further, a pair of tights (the opaque kind) can securely handle your tasseled strands. By simply cutting the foot out and then cutting a piece of the tight to about a half of an inch you can get a quite a bit of scrunchies. Solving the need for hair ties everywhere.
Bar-B-Que. Yes, this is the best time to get on that grill and cook. You save gas, and electric in one blow and it always feels like a party when a grill is in action. Now we can't stop at bar-b-quing, we have to extend to a neighbor. Encourage your neighbor to grill with you and not only will you reduce the utilities in your home you will also reduce the cost of food by sharing and bringing a meal together. Can anyone say Par-Tay!

Give your dog a treat. If you have to have a dog at all, go small. This will save on nearly everything you have to purchase for your pooch. Believe it or not your animal can eat properly prepared food. Often this includes unprocessed chicken, eggs, brown rice, peas, lean cuts of beef, carrots, and noodles. Not only will you pinch in the area of Canine cuisine but your dog will love you for it. But don't go crazy with it, little to NO seasoning is the best for their tummy's and coats. During the summer month's a piece of ice as a treat will relieve them just as it relieves us.

Name Brand Toilet Paper. REALLY? Let's make this short and sweet. You spend 2 minutes in the bathroom going and cleaning after. Do not spend your money on these name brand entities only to throw them down the toilet. I don't care how soft it is, your flushing money away. Enough said.

Gadget Smadget. I love the newest gadget as much as the next person, but I also know the minute I purchase the newest, greatest, bestest gadget the next model will be out in stores in no time. To stop this, must have gotta have, I have made the local pawn shop my go to spot on technology. I had the pleasure of purchasing a 42 inch screen t.v. for $265, and a 2010 Gateway laptop with web cam and all the newest software for the measly price of $350 in my favorite color I might add. Don't try to keep up with the Jetson's get what you need, not what gives the most speed. If your profession does not warrant it don't get it.

Buy it, ALL. Okay, don't be to snooty to purchase those lamb chops that have the sale sticker in red. It doesn't mean that they are spoiled it simply means that the FDA regulated date that the store can keep it is fast approaching. Instead of losing their entire profit they would rather lose a couple of cents. This is where we can rack up so buy it and buy them all. Store these pieces in your freezer for later in the month. While your at it buy those veggies on sale and bread to and fruits. Go ahead ask the produce associate for the bruised fruits they work great for frozen smoothies and pies. Nearly all food including bread and milk can be stored via freezer losing no nutritional value so store it and grab them while they are on sale.

The baby. That bundle of joy seems to need everything from a teething ring to a college fund. Don't fall for it. With or without the walker, the bouncy, the jogging stroller or the heating pad that warms up the wipes, they are going to grow at their on pace. An old fashion pair of white walking shoes is all that is needed to get little "snooker" to the next level. Even the 1st birthday party at Chuck E. Cheese is an unnecessary amount of money down the drain. Evaluate if these things are for you or the child and then way your purchases. Even more importantly if you know that you are not going to have another child in the near 2 to three year future don't allow yourself to turn your home into BABY'S R US. Trust me they won't remember any of it and it truly is a waste.

There truly is a million way's to save. You just have to be creative as well as sick of flushing your money down the toilet. Share some ideas with us no matter how quirky they are and let's start saving some real dollars.

Hair, Already Here!!

2013-08-30T13:59:00.001-07:00

Let's move from the theatrics of saying all the wonderful benefits that natural hair can offer and get straight to the root of the situation! Nurtured, loved and grown, where do we grow from here! I couldn't resist the pun in that one. I have been natural for 2 years and 10 mths. and I am quite fascinated with the phases that my hair has journeyed through. I am loving the fact that I can pull it into a flawless puff, or allow the curls to cascade down my shoulders. However, I am wondering what phase comes next or at all? Is all the hair that to be adorned on my crown already HERE!!

Will my hair continue this exciting journey or have I been plagued to be one of the many that have reached my terminal length. I am actually still reluctant to believe there is one but I digress. Let's face it one of the many benefits of being natural is the remarkable state that our tresses can grow. The healthy state that we can cultivate them to maintain.

Fully understanding terminal length has me questioning if our counterpart of naturally locked brothers and sister excluded from this so called terminal length merely because there shed hair just continues on in their lock OR could it be that our hair if uninterrupted just really keeps growing and growing and growing. After all when put into protective styles in effort to be away from the elements our hair flourishes and grows.

So my question to myself am I okay with the here that is currently fixated on my head or do I yearn for more? Is my hair at the terminal length that even if I continue protective styling or nurturing it would get no longer??? We have all learned and have some level of understanding of the phases of growth that goes in and out of dormancy BUT does our hair really have a final destination! What's your take on it?

Moisturize and Protect WITHOUT a MILLION Twists

2012-02-01T05:52:00.000-08:00

Natural Hair: How I Detangle, Clarify, Moisturize and Deep condition aft...

2012-01-12T12:09:00.000-08:00

RE RE evaluating my Life

2011-12-19T17:40:00.000-08:00

When I originally started this blog my intentions were pretty much to have a super fantastic blog that allowed me to share MY thoughts, My feelings, and MY experience with hair, fashion and in general 1 GENERAL "niche". Every great net worker or blogger alike agreed that it's important to have a niche for your audience and that being to vague or too random would cause you to lose your audience. Well it couldn't be more FARTHER or Further (you pick which one is grammatically correct) from who I am. I hate to sound cliche but...I AM NOT my hair, or JUST fashion or a NICHE.

I am emotions, and fickleness, and political views and relationships, and inspiration, and spirituality and love and hate, and mistakes and sexuality and then I swing all the way back to being just a simple prude, whew! I am 3 dimensional. I have so many views I can't possibly fit into the 3 areas that I ridiculously have been trying to bend and merge into. That is no one's fault at all, but mine.

That was the goal the focus of this blog. I wanted to welcome new experiences and trips, heartfelt situations and LIFE and share with all that no you are not the only one that enjoys eating rice with melted butter and a drizzle of apple sauce on the side! I want to share areas that I have no degree in but have successfully mastered like adolescence and motherhood. I want to wrap a cyber hug around you and make you feel warm and cozy and shout out YES your stupid boss is stupid but YOU MUST PAY YOUR bill's. I want you to laugh at my failed cake attempts and get your advice on how I should handle a visitor that has extended their visit a few month's too long.

So as we rejoice over the holiday's and the upcoming closing of this year don't be surprised of the possible conversations that may arise. I hope that it will be as interesting as your favorite magazine, as welcoming as southern hospitality and as real as the reality that you encounter everyday. Remember be encouraged, and be inspired to be you. After all no one else can do it like you can! Muah

One End Is a New Beginning

2011-12-09T21:36:00.000-08:00

Amazingly the year is coming to a fast yet subtle end. The drama of yesterday has subsided, the worries of today have calmed and although I didn't exactly conquer the world I'm pleased with the events that have unfolded throughout the year.

I tried almost everything that I wanted to. I failed more than I succeeded. I embraced my talents and found new ones yet through it all I am genuinely pleased with what has unfolded. Now I want to take these last few day's, weeks, hours to reflect. Give inventory on how I WILL improve. How my next move will be my best move.

However, like a relationship that must have it's proper closure I will remain loyal and focus to give careful thoughts and attention to the days that remain. After all the end is only the beginning to our next chapter.
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It's not that hard!

2011-11-08T14:24:00.000-08:00

Sweet simple and to the point. That's how my natural hair routine IS! I haven't become a product junkie, the economy won't allow that. I don't think that just because it works for you and we were born on the same day that it will definitely work for me. My initial day's of my journey were exciting and I was intrigued by the variety of curls and kinks that my sisters in the journey possessed. However, I made up my mind that I was not going to allow this journey to over take me. So with that being MY case, I have had the pleasure of having great hair days and dastardly day's. Days that a hat was all that would tame my mane and days that my curls gave plenty whiplash. I know that many say it's hard and many say it's a cake walk but in the end it's what do you say! I say it's not that hard.

Find your groove, find your lane! Master that hairstyle and wear it well. Find that product and make it work for YOU (Whether it's 100% natural or not...after all you don't seem to mind all the by products that you are consuming IE, Mickey D's I'm just saying) so be the leader of YOUR strands take them by the palm and demand them to listen and let them know it's not that HARD.

Don't Beat yourself up....There's alway's Tomorrow

2011-10-24T17:58:00.000-07:00

I was sitting and thinking. Before I even realized it I was here! Yup, you're here with me. You're at the end of the just a minute, the i need an hour, a day, a month heck, almost a year and here WE are again! Where, what, when, why, did I, didn't I or should I have. How did I get here.... Sigh, exhale and yet we're puzzled and here.

Now if your thinking What the **** was that first paragraph about then to you I say congratulations on defining where and what you wanted to do and pursuing it. This article is most likely not for you. However, if that paragraph engulf who and where you are right now, I want and NEED you to know that you are not alone. I also want you to know that it's not to late!

"We only have 60 more day's to complete that vision that goal, that degree, find the right (blank) or get out of this situation!" To you I say stop! Stop putting yourself in a time box. Goals are important but life sometimes happens. Sometime inevitable circumstances and events demand our attention. Sometime a moment just to go with the flow takes us into a longer phase than intended and that's okay.

So, stop right now and let's do an inventory check. Let's evaluate where WE are. *Breathe! Yes the year will soon be changing but guess what, from this day forward you still have 365 days to get it right and today, right now is day 1! There's no step program, there's no purging of issues it's just as simple as making up your mind. Allow today to be just that, today. Build for tomorrow and enjoy your progress step by step. Figure out what is mandatory and build from that point. While your focused look in the mirror smile and release yourself, because after all there is always tomorrow.

Natural Hair...Elegant?

2011-10-13T21:57:00.000-07:00

As my hair anniversary and birthday approach, I asked myself, "Can natural hair be grown and sexy?" I mean it's big, it's ecclectic, and it's is definately fierce. But is it sexy? Is it exotic? does it lure or captivate your husband, fiance or boyfriend's eye? I know your thinking, "it's how you carry yourself or your thinking it's the confidence that you exude through the individual." But can we be real, for real, for real? Is our hair sexy and if so which hair styles exemplify the look of sophistication, the look of a renasance classic. Which look screams black tie event or all white party?

I may be coming off or seeming as if I don't believe that our gorgeous, coily, volumized locs can display itself as sophisticated, vibrant young and sexy but that couldn't be further from the truth. From the tappered fade all the way to the pinned up loc I know that our hair has the amazing ability to lend itself to mandating attention by passer bys to admire every curl tossed all the way to bone straight silence.

My question is "Are we displaying this side of our natural hair." Have we been conditioned to think that because we are natural that we have to ALWAY'S display our hair in it's natural state. I challenge US. We have accepted our hair for the glory of how it grows, now let's have fun and shut the nay sayer's mouth's. Let's show them natural IS sexy sophisticated and we wouldn't have any other way. The next time that affair comes up flaunt your hair not, a wig, a weave or an extension but your hair in whatever form it decides to show it's "Diversity"

Must Haves for Naturals

2011-09-15T20:55:00.000-07:00

Okay I won't go on with a huge introduction I'm just going to make a list of great items to have for natural or just healthy hair. No reason, no purpose just a grocery list of products. Later if I remember I'll list the benefits. Here goes.

An excellent Moisturizing conditioner. My favorite, Herbal Essence Totally Twisted
Leave in conditioners
Olive Oil
Shea Butter
Gel. My favorite, Eco Styler Gel
Baking Soda
Flax Seed
Water

Bobby Pins
Hair Pins
Soft Brushes
Wide tooth comb

Head bands
Hair accessories
Satin bonnet
Spray bottle
plastic containers
Detangler

These are the basic things that have allowed my hair to thrive I hope they do the same for you.

Unprepared for Bad hair day...Try this!

2011-09-10T15:59:00.000-07:00

We don't have something to do or go somewhere important to go everyday and today happened to be the one day that I was to do nothing. The last of the lazy days of summer I will sit effortlessly doing nothing. I sitting and enjoy the view from my back yard patio and enjoy a refreshing class of water. No frills, no whistles, no bells, just old fashioned relaxation. Those were my plan until my phone rang alerting me of a text at 4am asking if I were going prayer walking today! By today I assumed they meant when the sun actually rise for what I call the "Morning". Sigh, my morning, my day that I actually thought was still was night was interrupted by a charity request which I love and am always ready to do, so without hesitation my simple reply to my 4am disturbance, *cough I mean invitation was a gracious, yes.
The alarm rang and I casually collected my thoughts to prepare for the invitation that I had accepted only to be greeted by my untamed mane that I intentionally gave no thought to. I had every intention to actually do nothing. Here are a few options to get through those unruly, I had no plans hair day's.

OPTION 1

A wig. No need to explain this one. The color length and maintenance are already prepared. Slide it on (with of coarse a wig cap to protect your hair) and proceed with plans.

OPTION 2

Wash and go puff. Wash your hair, add a moisturizing conditioner that will allow enough slip and glide to your hair to detangle. Carefully gather hair to the crown while neatly laying your edges down with gel product of choice, and use that wonderful tie of your choice to hold in place. For the neat together look apply a scarf around the edges to lay fly away's down.

OPTION 3

A hat. Not my favorite but it is an option. Yes, you can rock as smooth as a fedora or as casual as a baseball cap either way wear it and wear as if you meant to! Again be sure to protect your hair from pulls and tugs by placing a lining in the base of the hat.

OPTION 4

Stay home. Yes, enjoy the one day you have a week to do absolutely NOTHING. Boy this water is great!

When to get PROFESSIONAL HAIR HELP!

2011-09-08T18:57:00.000-07:00

bglhonline.com

So your on this journey with me. I have to assume this considering after all your reading a "natural hair blog." Or maybe you are considering leaving the white Crisco alternative alone. Either way let me warn all of you back of the house, in your bathroom late at night COSMOTOLOGISTS! Yes, COSMOTOLOGIST. Eh hum, SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP WHEN TRIMMING, DUSTING, OR CUTTING YOUR HAIR.

Yes, I am yelling because, yes it is that serious. I have been natural for 11 months eagerly educated myself and researched and cross canceled...You get the picture I studied, every technique known yet I made the reckless mistake of UNEVENLY big chopping. Now this was not a problem at all in my earlier phases but I tell you Bob, or Karen or you, I hate that I now embark on my 1 year anniversary after have retained a bit of length yet in my 11th month noticed that I will at some point have to ...cut a CHUNK to even it.

Now I know that this doesn't have to be done now I can just let it go slowly but my point being I could have avoided this had I not Big Chopped at 2am in the morning after watching endless hours of my fellow Youtubers! As a whole I am pleased with my length retention and a great deal of it has to with protective style as well as my 6 month transitioning. I have to say a piece of me sure wishes that the whole of my head was as long as the piece that effortlessly touches the collar bone of my neck. Sigh, lesson has been learned so YOU don't have to.

The Simple Love of My Natural Hair

2011-08-17T14:31:00.000-07:00

Okay, I am Natural no shock or surprise. It's quite obvious when you take a glance at the texture of my hair. I love the freedom that I have with my hair. I love the way that there's no stress if my hair gets wet. I love the way that my hair responds when I pamper it. I love the fact that I can actually eat my products, meaning that the cost of beauty supplies has greatly decreased.

I must admit that I miss the days of literally washing and literally going. Those were the days of foundation. I used those initial day's to spoil, show off and spoil my curls. That maybe the reason they respond so obediently. I miss the day's of just wrapping my hair and going to bed. Finding new styles in my new length and allowing my hair to welcome a friendly conversation is so refreshing.

I realize that the word transition is not isolated to transitioning from perm to natural. I find myself constantly transitioning from length to length, regimen to regimen and product to product. Each phase demanding to be recognized for it's new texture and specialized need for care.

I know that I have options and I know that this is a journey but for now I am enjoying the simplicity of my hair and truly enjoying the journey. No matter the length, the new Scientology, or the in product, I sincerely am loving the simple nature of my hair.

Finding Your way out of the Storm

2011-08-15T19:16:00.000-07:00

You smile, you laugh, you even respond to questions, but where are you. Behind the mask and the make-up, beyond the status of great a house, awesome job and wonderful kid's where did YOU go? You keep saying your okay and you have actually begin to believe it, but only long enough to make it through the day or to distract someone close to you into believing the illusion of happiness and contentment that you have created. Why can't I just believe that I am happy? Because your heart is sending consistent unpleasant reminders in the rhythm of a skipped beat or a racing thump. Why Can't you believe? Because your stomach is hosting a party for the Botanical Gardens, invitation of 100,000 butterflies to assemble in the lower quadrant of your belly. Why are you still not believing your okay, after you have convinced yourself for yet another day? Because your mind runs laps all night as you fight to convince it to give you JUST ONE NIGHT OF REST. But it can't! It can't stop thinking of the mistakes made that caused this turn, the people lost or the experiences not pursued. But you can make a decision that your happiness is no longer going to be dictated by your mind, by your physical feelings, your emotional attitude or your social status. No, today you are going to take control of the thoughts that haunt and keep you bound and imprisoned and you are going to see the clouds dissipate into a bright sun shining future.

How? How can I train my mind to ignore the very thing that plagues me and frustrates me daily? How can I ignore the lack or the ignorance that I am daily surrounded by. I'll tell you how, by simply letting go! Are you surprised? Are you upset by my answer? Did you expect an answer that was somehow rooted into deep meditation and theology? Maybe you needed a 12 step plan to help you walk daily through the guidelines allowing you to rehearse and re-enact the reason you are in the emotional state that you are in. I feel you! My ability to closely relate to the emptiness, the unfulfilled void that longs for purpose and that inability to cope through life's daily bullies qualifies me to be the perfect candidate to tell you to Simply, LET IT GO!!! I had my own twister in fact I have had to many to number. But after you scream, like that 2 year old, cry like you just got the whoppin' of your life, kick, swing, fall....And when your through collect yourself, exhale one last time and release it.

Your issues are no surprise to you and they certainly didn't arrive over night, so give yourself a minute to evaluate the cinder block layer's of hurt, and pain that you have allowed to sashay into your life. Now are you ready? Name that thing one by one, out loud and evict it from your heart. Remove the debris that has infiltrated the halls of you heart so you can move pass this stage of your life. I'll do it with you debt you must go I will be prosperous, unforgiveness you can no longer choke the life from me, I forgive now by faith despite the persons apology, depression I decide today that you are no longer needed or wanted I receive Joy and strength and remind myself that my happenings can no longer dictate my happiness! Sigh, breathe embrace yourself look at what you can be when you just take off the mask and make it through the storm. After all most storms have beautiful rainbow's waiting at the end. So it isn't about waiting for the storm to pass, it's about finding the strength to make it through the healing process during the storm.

Not about hair, but hear me out!!!

2011-08-11T21:12:00.000-07:00

Bible study has left me with a Selah for thought. Those of you who really know me, know that I don't mind being the common day martyr. If a question needs to be asked and your afraid I'll ask, if the majority of us have an issue I'll speak for the people. I've learned years ago that I was a trail blazer, never bothered me none. But tonight at Bible Study as I spoke for those who to often are shot down or misunderstood. I felt the criticism of those I spoke for!! Not to far from a place that I once was, topics of what's perverse can and can't be done etc, etc.

I started thinking about Kirk Franklin's lyrics, when he says that church taught us "how to shout and how to speak in tongues but teacher please teach us how to live NOW once the tongues are done." Some people really just don't know, it doesn't make them carnal or playing, they really just don't know! Life is going on marriage, children, bills, gains, loss, etc... We need specific instructions on how God's word is relevant to manage our lives 2011. (and trust it still has power and yes the bible is our instructions) But until they can hear from the Holy Spirit, our teacher, there are some areas that they may continue to miss until the conviction and relationship with God comes.

There are areas that to the church may seem taboo, but a new generation of people are arriving they wanna know and understand why a thing is sin, and it won't always be because they operate in rebellion or error but we have to be a people that can be ready to give an in season word. So let's not be the christian that turns up a snooty nose, or the one that runs ahead so far that we forgot when God delivered, from that thing. Allow people to ask, reflect, GROW and the speed that they do will reflect
God's love and compassion that was shown toward them during those seasons of misdirection in their lives!

Sigh... Like newborn babies, you must crave pure spiritual milk so that you will grow into a full experience of salvation. Cry out for this nourishment, 2 Peter 2:2 allow God to nurture those according to the level that they are on. Although we feed on Him We still are learning DAILY. Thank you Lord for my Pastor, an awesome teacher of God's word and with that I return to...Selah...

Will My New Career Recieve My Natural Strands?

2011-07-28T08:52:00.000-07:00

I know that this is a corporate world or society, but are all areas of that society still unreceptive, incompassionate (not really a word but you understand) or plain old ignorant toward our natural stresses. This is more my point of view than it is a column to inspire or encourage anyone. Okay, here's the background. I am searching for a new career; however, I am beginning to feel as if my career search is being hindered by the state of my hair.

Obviously my skills surfaced above the ca trillion people out there seeking and searching to land the same position that I have applied for yet the return call or initial interview goes to ME! That alone is something to be excited about and you to will understand if like me you are seeking a new career. Sadly, somewhere between the call, the interview, and the thank you notes graciously written to exemplify the interviewers words or basically let them know I am still interested...NOTHING!

I know you think maybe I suck at the interview...Negative I have had mock interviews to drill every question known to man even the unethical ones through colleagues, College professors, friend's, foe's, kid's all putting me in the position of "I'd hire you" Yes, you probably are saying these people are biased and couldn't drill you as hard as a potential Employer...Negative, I say again. Many of those mock interviews were done with people who's very career's revolve around this industry and career building, to the point they take pride at having people cry preferably during the process, Shaking my head because I've seen it happen.

I have worn my hair in a bun, the slickest of puffs that at a glance could go for a pony tail. I have worn my hair super curly and always professional and managed. Now if you are reading this article and are saying to yourself, (as I initially was) maybe the job just isn't for you, I agree just because I was called and gave a killer interview doesn't mean that "Uncle Mike" as my competition addressed the interviewer at my last interview, still has to go through the protocol of "offering" the position to other candidates. Or, maybe your hair wasn't as neat as you thought it was. I thought this one as well, but had to give myself a raised eyebrow sorta the way they do when they ask me into the interview room.

If I have to question if my hair is professional enough or accepted for the place that I am interviewing for...then this is not where I NEED or WANT to work. If my hair in it's tamest form is TOO MUCH for the company applied for, then this isn't where I need to be. NO, I won't act as such an activist that I refuse career options where the interviewer is so intrigued by my strands that I notice them unconsciously talking to it...okay maybe not so much. Or that periodically I burst into a "what you lookin' at" or "is there a problem" rant.

I am trying to be reassured after hearing my Arabian Physical Therapist have the need to tell me that he himself preferred African American women that wore their own hair opposed to "the animals they put on there head". (That is an entirely different hilarious conversation, but reassuring)
I will simply keep searching and seeking the market that is ready to embrace all of me and remind myself that natural OR relaxed nobody wants an unprofessional staff member representing their company. So if Jews thick curls, Caucasians flowing locks, and Asians seamless tresses are accepted in any form then the soft to touch African Americans exotic fullness that my hair possess will wait.

Joy Busters: Anger (An Insensitive Reaction)

2011-07-21T18:36:00.000-07:00

This message forward and shared via e-mail and is not my piece. However I found it awesome enough to share. All credits to the following.

Dr. David Jeremiah

A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
Proverbs 15:1

Recommended Reading
Ephesians 4:25-32

If you've driven a car or been a passenger in one recently, you don't have to be told that anger is an issue in our society. Nearly half of car accidents are speculated to be caused by road rage. It seems that conflicts on the road bring deeper issues to the surface. And, unfortunately, tempers are often the vice of the virtuous. But the Bible clearly tells us that love is not provoked (1 Corinthians 13). Yes, it's possible to be a Christian and struggle with anger. But we should bear in mind the words of theologian Jonathan Edwards, "The grace of God can live with some people with whom no one else could ever live."

So how do we encourage love in a society that tends toward anger? The next time we're faced with an angry person or a situation that would normally warrant an angry response, we can choose to respond in love--allowing that soft answer to turn away anger. But in order to be capable of a gentle, loving response, we need to be constantly connected to the source of love--Jesus Christ!

Anger devours almost all other good emotions. It deadens the soul.
John Piper

This message forward and shared via e-mail and is not my piece. However I found it awesome enough to share