Barbara Naturally Speaking

Coronavirus Meetings and Grooming

2020-04-03T17:39:00.001-05:00

This Pic was taken days ago. My edges were 85% intact. Today it's looking different. Trust me :)

I've been forced to engage and learn about different online meeting options for work and personal organizational meetings on this week, due to changes to social distancing as a result of Covid-19 ( cornavirus ). On a regular basis, I feel like my make up is done, my hair is mainly neat daily, but that has changed on some days.

During this time of having the city of Chicago on lockdown, except for going out on occasion for necessities I've literally been following directives to stay put. This stuff is serious! As I get prepared for meetings via phone or with online invites, I'm always worried about if the group can see me. These are my inner thoughts:

Me: I'm not ready!

Me: It's too early!

Me: This bun is not neat.

Me: How can I make sure that no-one sees me.

Me: Let me keep this cute sticker over my camera, and know that it will not be removed.

Me: In case anyone sees around the edges of this sticker, I will place post-it notes around the front and rear facing camera in case it picks up anything when I'm using the audio. It's probably not possible, but just to be on the safe side. LOL!

Me: How do I also turn the camera off? (shout out to my friends who responded to text messages about this when I was on these conferences).

The bad part is after all of this camera covering, I walked around a corner in my house and there was my husband on a zoom call with ten people. Why????

I hope that I made you smile!

*What are y'all thinking when you get on "Zoom", "Google Hangouts" or other video platforms? Is your hair neat? Are you leaving the camera on?*

In all seriousness, here are some tips to staying healthy during this pandemic or future pandemics:

Co-Vid 19 Prevention and Facts From The CDC

Tips For Planning For The Next Pandemic

Co-Vid 19 Self Care Tips

*Praying for all affected by and all who knows someone diagnosed with this virus*

Merry Christmas!

2019-12-25T15:11:00.003-06:00

Merry Christmas! I've spent the day with my family. I have several family members who aren't feeling their best. I'm reminded of how important it is to live in the moment, reminisce and laugh about all things funny, and eat good food! Every Christmas I always smile when I think about one of my college friends, who passed away of cancer. She could wrap a gift like nobody's business. You would think that she worked at a Gift Wrapping Facility. One of my college projects was to make a clinical box for working with children who needed speech therapy. She offered to wrap that box so beautifully and then I added clinical items and got an "A" on that project. I pray that the family of Sharon Lee from Mississippi's family is blessed! Let's remember our family and friends that touched our lives and will forever be present in our memories.

Oh, since this is truly a blog about natural hair, healthy recipes and life, here's the 411:

1. Christmas Hairstyle: Box Braids- I've had them up for a month. I love box braids and this is my second time wearing them within the last 4 months. My hair grew more the last time with careful upkeep. There's a method to this.

2. Food: I cooked 2 beef pot roasts with carrots and potatoes and onions for my family. This was ready this afternoon, after getting everything started at 1:30 am. They ate one for lunch.

3. Vegetarian Food: Vegetarian Roasted Tomato Curry with Kale and Chickpeas. I test tasted this at Costco and it was so flavorful, that I wanted to enjoy it for Christmas. I'll prepare this later. In the meantime I stuck to my typical breakfast of oatmeal.

Vegetarian eats!

4. Sweets: I keep eating these darn candy canes off the tree! LOL!

Peace and love,

Barbara

Happy Thanksgiving!

2019-11-28T20:33:00.000-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving From me and my family to you and yours! Special prayers are going out to those who are grieving this year. Blessings to all.

Satin Pillow Cases at The Arts and Culture Fair

2019-08-02T11:42:00.000-05:00

It's that time of year again. Stop by and greet me at the "Barbara Naturally Speaking Table" I have satin pillow cases with a new array of colors! Protect your curls and coils y'all. It's time to sleep cute on a quality pillow case.

Day: Tomorrow - Saturday, August 3, 2019
Time: 12:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Location: Douglass Park Field House- 1401 S. Sacramento, Chicago, IL 60623

Family Fun/ activities: Live Bands, Dancers, Break Dance Battle, Arts and entertainment, and multiple vendors including food, my satin pillow cases, jewelry, art, and more! It's free to get in an enjoy the entertainment.

Check out previous events:

Arts and Culture Fest 2018

Natural Hair And Community Resource Event

Camille Rose Naturals Wash And Go

2019-05-21T08:00:00.000-05:00

Camille Rose Naturals products have been giving me life! I've been using the almond jai twisting butter, jojoba oil, and curl maker as the main 3 products in my wash and go. My hair is moisturized, soft, and healthier than it's ever been. My hair loves marshmallow root, and the curl maker gel has this ingredient. Enjoy the video as I show how I apply products using the LOG method to achieve a great wash and go!

Merry Christmas!

2018-12-25T19:16:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas! May your day be filled with love, service, and joy!

Today's style is a wash and go with cantu products. I spent time with my family enjoying moments of laughter, food, and fun while celebrating the birth of Christ. Today was a good day!

Peace and love to you and yours!

Merry Christmas 2017!

The African Festival of The Arts Chicago Is Full Of Culture, Food, and Clothing

2018-09-03T10:51:00.001-05:00

The African Fest in Washington park has become an annual family tradition for my family. I look forward to it annually! It's the one place that you can walk through makeshift villages, see a variety of people, african clothing, decor, food, and listen to music that makes you want to dance at any moment. The African Fest always comes before the students go back to school, and my children always purchase a few items. I purchase my shea butter here annually, plus a few earrings, skirts, and dresses.

With my hubby and 3 children. Everyone is rocking their natural hair and 4 out of 5 smiles in a picture is awesome!

I was in heaven when I tried an African dish called "Fufu/ Egusi- vegi no meat". OMG! It reminded me of a grit or polenta topped with spicy tomato soup like mixture. That's what I thought, however upon further research I learned that "fufu" is a food that's common in many countries in Africa, such as Ghana, Liberia, and Nigeria. Fufu is made my mixing portions of cassava, yam, green plantain, or rice with water. It's then topped with "Egusi", which is made with chilies, melon seeds, pumpkin leaves, onions, and seasoning. It looks like the non-vegetarian version is traditionally cooked with meat and fish as well. I purchased it from Vee Vee's African Restaurant at the fest.

It's something about drum village that calls me near every year. The sounds of hands tapping an African melodic beat is just magical! Here are a few more pics to enjoy. Remember it's not to late to enjoy the African Festival of the Arts in Washington Park in Chicago. Today September 3rd is the last day, but it opened at 10:00 am. today! Go!

My favorite Brand for Hair masks! Honey Miracle Hair Mask is my weekly fave!

Check out previous posts from festivals below:

A Day At the African Festival Of The Arts

Satin Pillow Cases At the Arts And Culture Fest

Satin Pillow Cases At The Arts And Culture Fest 2018 And My Henna Tattoo

2018-08-07T07:58:00.000-05:00

Setting up my table with my Pink and Chocolate Satin Pillow Cases

Thanks to everyone that came out to participate in the Arts and Culture Fest 2018! I got to talk to so many people who stopped by my table to purchase satin pillow cases or to talk about natural hair! I was in natural hair heaven! This is the 3rd annual fest hosted at Douglas Park on the West Side of Chicago. Some people don't highlight the positives here, but there are so many positive people and events here there make life enjoyable. My children hung out with me most of the day and helped with sales. My husband also stopped by my table. There were artists, jewelry makers, t-shirt makers, real estate companies, musicians, dancers, food, hats, and face painting. I got my first henna tattoo y'all! I truly had an awesome time!

Here are some pics from the fest:

Until next year this time, I hope to see you at the next Arts And Culture Fest!

Check out my previous participation in tests:
Curl Clinic Recap

Curl Clinic Englewood

Meeting Afrobella At The BGLH Meetup

Greet Me This Saturday At The Barbara Naturally Speaking Table At The Fest!

2018-07-31T09:50:00.002-05:00

Hey naturalists,

I'm excited to be vendor at the Arts and Culture Fair This Saturday, August 4th. Y'all stop by my table to purchase your satin pillow cases, share natural hair advice, and take some pictures! I can talk about hair all day and I look forward to the conversation. Y'all know I will be giving out some pillowcases as well. Stop by the fair to enjoy live music, artists, vendors of all kinds to update your collection of natural hair needs, jewelry, etc., and enjoy family activities.

When: Saturday August 5th, 2018
Where: Douglas Park- 1401 S. Sacramento Dr., Chicago, Il 60623
Time: 10 am - 7 pm

It's free and it's fun! Bring the family!

Check Out My Participation In Previous Events:

Curl Clinic Recap

The Winner of the Satin Pillow Case

Curl Clinic 2013

Curl Clinic Englewood

Meeting Afrobella at the BGLH Meetup

Gluten Free Snack - Home Style Sweet Pickled Beets

2018-05-18T07:00:00.004-05:00

I found another gluten free snack at Costco, "Home Style Sweet Pickled Beets that is"! This snack is delicious. I was initially thinking, "How can something taste sweet and be pickled all at the same time"? It's the perfect sweet and tart mixture. Beets have a lot of nutritional value as well. This root vegetable is chuck full of antioxidants, aids in lowering blood pressure, boosts energy/ stamina, and also keeps you regular. I've enjoyed eating beets for as long as I can remember. As a child, I remember them serving beets for lunch at school. I think I was the only child in my class that ate them actually. I ate them because my parents cooked them at home, and despite the red color of beet juice that was a running joke for little kids, beets tasted amazingly good to me. I add them to salads, however as a vegan I snack on a few of these as a mid-evening snack before dinner. Yum!

What's your favorite gluten free and vegan snack or meal?

Check out previous posts about gluten free/ vegetarian foods:

Gluten Free And Vegan Noodle Stir Fry

Vegetarian And Gluten Free Tacos

Veggie Tacos With Gluten Free Tortillas And Corn

Barbara's Gluten Free And Vegan Mushroom Stir Fry

Vegan And Gluten Free Barbecue Pulled Pork

Thank God It's Natural Walmart Launch Party - Congratulations Chris-Tia Donaldson

2018-05-09T16:45:00.000-05:00

I had to grab a pic with the ladies from TGIN that handed me a gift bag!

So I got an invite from "Thank God Its Natural" to attend their Walmart Launch Party on Friday May 4th! That means that TGIN products will be in Walmart! I'm excited because that means, when I grab things from Walmart, a store that I frequent, I can also grab my favorite deep conditioner. My favorite deep conditioner is Thank God It's Natural Honey Miracle Hair Masque ! Since adding color to my hair, it's been the one conditioner that I've used weekly, after I figured out that not deep conditioning is not an option. My hair health improved to the point that my stylist said that we can start a less frequent trimming schedule, closer to every few months instead of every few weeks to get rid of some damaged ends.

I digress, the event was great! The venue was packed, and the aura was awesome! The white chocolate covered strawberries sealed the deal for me. I was too busy to toast, because I was busy taking pictures and feeling joy for the owner at her celebration of launching her product into Walmart. Previously I had been going to Sally's Beauty to pick up her products, but now I can get them at additional locations. Yay!

Shout out to Chris-Tia Donaldson- the owner of TGIN! She had celebrations on Friday and Saturday.

Participants were gifted with full sized products, including a cowash and conditioner! I can't wait until my next wash day y'all! I just remembered that I did take a pic with Chris-Tia Donaldson, however it was with her cameraman. Her excitement and genuine gratitude for all who showed their love and support was felt throughout the room! Here's a few pics from the event, and from afterwords once I checked out my products at home.

When I got home and saw these full sized products and a little zip up TGIN baggy, I was too excited. I'm going to try the cowash and conditioner soon!

Have you tried TGIN products? If so what's your fave?

Check out some of my previous posts about events:

Meeting Curly Nikki And Tracy Ellis Ross in NYC

How I Celebrated Three Years Chemical Free

Loving Our Natural Hair Curl Clinic Recap

Curl Clinic Recap April 2018

A Wash And Go With A Twist

2018-05-02T05:56:00.000-05:00

So I recently interviewed this beautiful lady on the 411 on how she achieves her moisturized curls and this is what she said:

Barbara Naturally Speaking: Your hair is gorgeous! Is this a wash and go?

Tondalaya: Yes, this particular style is a wash and go.

Barbara Naturally Speaking: How did you achieve this style?

Tondalaya: I wet it while in the shower. I then comb it out and put it in 4 big twists. I leave them in while I get dressed and take them down right before I head out the door. This helps to elongate the curls and cuts down on shrinkage.

Barbara Naturally Speaking: What products did you use?

Tondalaya: I use a few products at any given time, but recently I've been using the Cantu moisturizer mixed with coconut oil.

Barbara Naturally Speaking: How often do you redo this style?

Tondalaya: I can do this style daily. It will last about two days.

Barbara Naturally Speaking: How do you preserve the style?

Tondalaya: I preserve the style by wearing a silk bonnet at night.

Barbara Naturally Speaking: Thanks for sharing, I'm going to have to try this soon!

Tondalya's curly hair is always on point!

When I see this style, I think wash and go, but the truth is it's a "Wash and Go with a Twist"!

Does anyone else modify their wash and go with twists to stretch it briefly before heading out the door?

Check out my previous posts on wash and go's:

Shea Moisture Wash And go

Conditioner Only Wash And Go

Day 5 Mixed Chicks leave-in-conditioner- Wash and Go

Reminiscing About Prince Via My Recent Visit At Paisley Park

2018-04-21T13:17:00.002-05:00

A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to visit Paisley Park. It was my way of getting a closer view of the artist that I listened to since the 5th grade. In other words, it was Spring Break, and my children got to spend time at the Amusement Park in Mall of America and my husband and I got to enjoy an adult focused activity while in Minnesota. My husband and I took the tour of his home, Paisley Park. We weren't allowed to take pictures, but the experience will forever be etched in my mind.

From the outside, his home which is now a museum, looked like a large white edifice that didn't quite reveal the artistry on the inside. When we walked in we were greeted by a picture of his eyes over the entryway, as if he was watching us enter his sanctuary. Immediately into the entrance of the living space were purple couches. The tour guide told us that his ashes were right above the living room. We then paused for a moment of silence. We were then directed to gaze up on the balcony, and saw his pet doves which still live there. His kitchen was there, filled with benches and tables on one side and a couch and t.v. on the other. In fact, this week on the news I learned that the day that he passed away his meal was still sitting on that table when the cops were called out to the home when he was found. The remainder of the tour took us through many rooms, each with a theme of one of his projects "Purple Rain", etc. I was amazed to learn that Graffiti Bridge was filmed in his home. I was also awe-struck to see a huge concert hall that could entertain over a 1000 people. The last part of the tour ends inside of his club, where his chef still works. We then ordered food and had a meal in Prince's club. I had a great vegetarian dish "Red Lentil Dahl". The flavor was amazing! My husband and I sat there and talked about Prince's music, how talented he was, and how we were glad that we had the opportunity to visit this music mogul's empire. He was a true musical genius, actor, and business man in his own right!

Just 2 years ago, we lost the artist known as Prince. Today I reminisce about all of the joy that he brought to his fans. When he stepped on the stage, his smile and artistry lit up the room. His passion for music, song, instruments, and creativity all showed in each performance and interaction. I have many of his songs on my Apple Play List including my favorites: Purple Rain, When Doves Cry, and I Will Die For You, to name a few.

One things for sure, when someone loves what they do, it comes through to the audience.

If I could say something to Prince right now I would say "Thanks for being such a great entertainer Prince! Your music, dance, smile, performance at concerts, and movies always made me smile".

Have you visited Paisley Park? If not, you should definitely check it out.

Read the Previous Posts About Prince Below:

Remembering Prince Rogers Nelson

Prince Concert 2012 Chicago

Vegan And Gluten Free Version of Barbecue Pulled Pork- Jackfruit In Disguise!

2018-04-18T21:26:00.000-05:00

Bar-b-que Jackfruit

Being Vegan or Vegetarian doesn't have to be boring. I frequently enjoy a vegan version of a pulled pork sandwich, which is actually jackfruit in disguise. I purchase the Upton brand at Petes Fresh Market.

Pete's has a great little vegan section, with vegan cheeses, vegan italian sausage, tofu, and barbecue jackfruit among other foods. The Upton brand of Jackfruit states that it's "Free of gluten, soy and oil; a good source of fiber, and cholesterol free". It's already vegan and gluten free! To keep it this way, you can place a serving onto your favorite gluten free bread if you're gluten free, or your favorite vegan bread if that's your style and wallah! A masterpiece of flavor. I recently served it with some gluten free blue chips and fresh guacamole. This meal was sooooooo good! My husband eats a gluten free diet and loved this meal! My children also enjoyed this, and when they enjoy it as well- it's a true winner in my house.

Has anyone tried this vegan and gluten free version of Bar-b-que Jackfruit?

Check out previous posts with vegan and/ or gluten free meals below:

Vegetarian And Gluten Free Tacos

Vegan And Gluten Free Mushroom and Broccoli Rice Noodle Stir Fry

Gluten Free And Vegan Noodle Stir Fry

And The Winner Of The Satin Pillowcase Is.....

2018-04-16T19:52:00.003-05:00

Congratulations to Maureen Randolph! You're the winner of a new Satin Pillow Case! Please inbox (send message) your address to me on my "Barbara Naturally Speaking" face book page.

Thanks for Liking my facebook page!

Enjoy the satin pillow case! Your curls will thank you.

Sincerely,

Barbara

Curl Clinic Recap- April 2018

2018-04-14T23:24:00.000-05:00

Q and A and Picture Time!

Curl Clinic Presenters, Team, And Hair Models

It was awesome being a panelist and presenter at "The Curl Clinic" on today!

-Purpose: Educating Participants on how to maintain and take care of their natural hair.

-Topics Discussed: Natural hair maintenance, Moisturizing Color Treated Hair, Regimens, Ingredients To Select/ Avoid, Transitioning, and Healthy Ways To Wear Those Curls In A Straight Style.

-Space: Not an empty seat in the room!

-Crowd: Natural Curls of All Textures - Beauty and diversity at it's Best! They were engaged, asked tons of questions, and shared information.

-Happenings: Giveaways and Styling Demos

-Shout outs: Sonya (this is her brainchild that started 5 years ago), Dominique - owner of Skin Deep Natural Body Care, Renata - Hair stylist, Tondalaya - my friend who was a beautiful hair model for me to demonstrate a quick DIY- protective style, my husband Dennis for coming out to show his support and for taking photos, and myself Barbara - Speech Language Pathologist by day and natural hair blogger and enthusiast at all times in between!

Conclusion: The Curl Clinic Rocked! Women walked away with some great advice about maintaining their natural hair, some awesome gift bags, and their questions answered.

P.S. Thanks to those of you that liked my Facebook page and subscribed to my Youtube channel all titled " Barbara Naturally Speaking". I will be announcing the winners of the satin pillow case giveaway on Monday. Remember to "like" and "subscribe" on both platforms to qualify!

Whole Foods on 63rd st.

Add caption

Thanks for coming out!

Check out our previous curl clinics here:

Loving Our Natural Hair Curl Clinic Recap - 2013

Curl Clinic At Englewood

Come Out This Saturday April 14th, And Learn Some Natural Hair Tips, About Styles, Products, And More!

2018-04-09T06:00:00.000-05:00

That's me in the orange speaking on the panel at a curl clinic a few years ago!

Hey, stop by and greet us on April 14th from 2pm-5pm at Whole Foods on 63rd st.

-If you have natural hair, family and friends with natural hair, or are thinking about going natural, you should register to attend.

-It's free!

-You get to learn about healthy hair regimens, styling tips, products, etc. You don't want to miss it.

Visit "The Curl Clinic" Facebook page and indicate that you are attending or email at THECURLCLINIC@GMAIL.COM! We'd love to see you there!

Check out some of the previous Curl Clinics below:

Loving Our Natural Hair Curl Clinic 2013

Loving Our Natural Hair Curl Clinic Recap

Natural Hair And Community Resources In Chicago

Curl Clinic In Englewood

April 4th Marks The Death Of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. - Remembering His Life

2018-04-04T06:00:00.000-05:00

On April 4, 1968, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. A sadness comes over me as I think about the hatred that took one our greatest leaders, visionaries, and fighters for racial equality. Martin Luther King had gone to Memphis, TN to support striking African American sanitation workers. Workers were protesting significant differences in employment compared to white workers, including being paid lower wages than whites, death of African Americans due to unsafe working conditions, and lack of pay if African Americans stayed at home during bad weather, such as snowstorms.

Dr. Martin Luther King's traveled to Memphis via airplane, however his plane was delayed the day that he traveled to Memphis due to a bomb threat. He endured many threats, and yet he kept his vision and stayed his course. He went on to deliver his speech "I've Been To The Mountaintop". In his speech he stated that "we've got some difficult days ahead", but also stated that "I just want to do God's will"... And I've looked over. And I've seen the promised land. I may not get there with you, but I want you to know tonight, that we, as a people will get to the promised land. And I''m so happy tonight. I'm not worried about anything. I'm not fearing any man. My eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord.

He was later killed when he stepped on the balcony of his hotel, room 306 of the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, TN. James Earl Ray was reportedly seen fleeing a rooming house across the street from the Lorraine Motel. James Earl Ray later indicated that he was set up for the murder, and that Dr. King's assassination was a set up with more people involved. Riots took place across multiple cities in the U.S. I know this well because the area that I grew up in, in Chicago was also hit by the riots. My parents told me that it was once filled with businesses, however people were angry and it became an area that was barren.

Last year, my family traveled to Memphis, TN to tour the Civil Rights Museum. I saw the room that he stayed in, the cars parked outside of the museum, all of the segregation that African Americans went through, including pictures and actual items that showed unequal education, colored and white water fountains, the bus that was burned carrying freedom fighters, and the counters that didn't allow African Americans to sit there. It was a very emotionally overwhelming moment for me. It was sad thinking that this visionary, educated, peaceful civil rights leader was taken to soon. I felt grateful for all that he had done in his 39 years. He influenced a nation, sparked unity, and a fearlessness to fight for equality for African Americans.

My family and I standing in front of the Lorraine Hotel

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s bedroom at the Lorraine Motel

Today many commemorate his death, but I truly celebrate his life. Thank you Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. for everything!

*Here are a few more facts about Dr. King: Not only was he a leader of the civil rights movement from the mid 1950's until his assassination in 1968, he was also a Baptist minister, a nobel prize winner, husband, and father of four. His educational studies included obtaining his degree in sociology from Morehouse college, graduating valedictorian from Crozer Theological Seminary in Chester, Pennsylvania, and studying at Boston University and going on to earn his Ph.D at 25 years of age.*

See Previous Post about this road trip below:

Road Trip To Memphis, TN

Protective Styling With Ghana Braids And Box Braids

2018-03-28T08:42:00.002-05:00

Braid Selfies

Protective styling with ghana braids and box braids are a cute way to give the hair a break while allowing it to maintain moisture and grow! My daughter has box braids that have been up for 2 1/2 weeks. My ghana braids have been in for 1 1/2 weeks. Lately my styling regimen has included changing our styles more frequently to include more protective styles. Before getting our hair braided, I prepped it by co-washing, deep conditioning, applying a leave-in, olive oil, and cream. I used the LOC method to lock in moisture. I've been trimming our hair more frequently and doing more low manipulation styles, so I'm looking forward to seeing what our growth looks like at our next trim. We're on the road to healthier, longer, natural hair!

What kind of protective styles are you doing to give your hair a break from daily styling?

Check out my previous posts on braids and protective styling:

Ghana Braids - My Go To Summer Style

Protective Styles- Flat Twists

Side Swept Bun With Braids

Creating New Styles With Two Strand Twists

Cereal and Gluten Free Cereal In Celebration Of National Cereal Day

2018-03-07T19:28:00.000-06:00

When I got in my car and headed to work, I learned via radio that it was "National Cereal Day". I thought wow, there's a celebration for everything. LOL! On the radio people were calling in to talk about the cereal that they had eaten on this morning. One little girl called in and said that she had oatmeal. The host commended her on choosing a healthy cereal.

I thought about how I had eaten cereal for breakfast this morning. I literally have oatmeal with a sprinkle of walnuts and fruit every morning, sometimes I just put walnuts and sprinkle with cinnamon. When I got home from work, I figured this would be an easy non-cook day. I actually went back out and picked up two boxes of cereal, a box of "Frosted Flakes" and also a box of "Honey Nut Cheerios"for the gluten-free eaters in my home. One of my favorites cereals when I was a little girl was "Frosted Flakes" and "Super Sugar Crisp". I don't eat a variety of cereal often as an adult, but when I do it's one of the 3 mentioned above. I figured I would splurge on these sweet treats today.

I fixed myself a bowl of Frosted Flakes, topped it with a few sliced strawberries, and added some almond milk, the "Almond Breeze" brand.

I always keep gluten-free options on hand in my house. "Honey Nut Cheerios" and the Almond Breeze brand of almond milk is gluten free. I'm lactose intolerant and Almond Milk helps me digest the popular liquid that tops off a tasty cereal. My son made a dessert of his cereal and topped it with ice-cream. He said that he'd seen this done online. Nonetheless, he ate two bowls.

Call it dinner, dessert, a treat, whatever you like. We splurged tonight, but one things for sure, the cereal was good!

Happy National Cereal Day!

-What kind of cereal did you eat on today?

-What was your favorite cereal as a kid?

Check out some of my previous posts on Breakfast:

How to make and sweeten oatmeal without sugar

The Ingredients Needed To Prepare An Awesome Green Smoothie

Vegetarian And Gluten Free Tacos From The Restaurant- Friday Night Take-Out

2018-03-02T21:04:00.001-06:00

I've learned to find vegan/ vegetarian options at a variety of restaurants. I love tacos! I can eat them every day. I promise I can. I just try to utilize self-control. LOL! Vegetarian tacos don't pack a ton of calories. When I order, I ask for rice, beans, onions, cilantro, and green peppers. It just doesn't get any better than that. Salsa just seals the deal. Protein and veggie packed goodness!

If you're vegetarian, what do you eat on your tacos?

Check out my previous posts about this subject:

Vegan Quinoa tacos

A Simple Vegan Dinner: Veggie Tacos With Gluten Free Tortillas And Corn

Protective Styles - Flat Twists

2018-02-13T22:13:00.000-06:00

Protective styles such as flat twists or braid outs have been my way of nurturing my natural hair the past few weeks. The weather has been cold and snowy in Chicago. We got 12 inches of snow on this past weekend. The schools were shut down, and when that happens in the Chi, you know that the weather is bad. This hardly ever happens here.

Cold winters can also mean dry hair issues. I've been trying to add as much moisture to my hair as possible. Flat twists are such a simple and quick low manipulation style. I actually created this style on freshly washed hair. I moisturized my hair with a DIY shea butter, olive oil, and castor oil mix. I started by parting my hair down the middle and from ear to ear. I then formed two flat twists on the sides with the 2 front sections. I then twisted 2 additional flat twists on each side towards the back, if that makes sense. I secured my hair with an elastic, and then wrapped the twists into a bun and pinned them with bobbi pins. I left this hairstyle up for 3 days. I misted it with Cantu comeback curl, then applied the shea butter/ olive oil/ castor oil mixture to my hands and gently patted it into my hair. I promise I thought that I had taken a picture of the back of this style, but I didn't. LOL! I'll redo it soon and make sure to include a pic of the back. Here's a view of my hair before pulling it back into an elastic.

3 Twists per side

I preserved this style at night by securing my hair with a satin scarf. In the morning, I just removed the scarf and applied my makeup. Easy Peasy!

What protective styles are you doing this winter?

Check out some previous posts about protective styling:

Ghana Braids

Wash And Sleep Styles

Mini Twists Mean Free Time For Mama

Braid Outs Provide Moisture- Never Say Never

2018-02-01T22:00:00.002-06:00

Braid outs are a great way to provide moisture to dry hair! A few years ago, I vowed to never do braid outs again. I had gotten accustomed to doing wash and go's ( wash, apply a cream and/ or gel and letting my hair dry in it's natural curl pattern). It was simpler and less time consuming than doing a braid out.

Well, since I've added color to my hair, it's just dry and sucks up moisture. My hair is thirsty! I started to remember the growth and moisture that I had when I first big chopped back in 2008. Braid outs were my staple hair style, which means that after cleaning my hair I would apply a leave in conditioner, raw shea butter, oil of choice, and braid 8-9 braids. I figured lets take it back to when the moisture was real! I did a braid out on Sunday night. I co-washed my hair with deva curl no-poo, sprayed on some Aphogee Keratin and Green Tea Reconstructor, then applied a mix that I blended up with shea butter, castor oil, and olive oil, after seeing this video by Sekora and Safari. My hair was more moisturized than it's been since having color. It's something about braiding hair with shea butter and oils and allowing it to soak in and dry in the hair. Moisture heaven! The above picture is day 4 days post initial braid out. I did more braids than my throwback 8 braids, but my hair maintained that moisture for days. Color treated hair coupled with dry winter air means that braid outs are necessary. Again, never say never. I declare I'm back to doing braid outs!

Do you use braid outs to help your hair maintain moisture? If not, drop a moisture maintaining style in the comments below.

Check out some of my previous posts and throwback vids from way back by clicking the links below:

Why I stopped Wearing Braid Outs

Todays Braidout And Its Correlation To My Hair And Growth

How to do a Braid out. This was one of my first you tube videos done years ago.

Smiling And Feeling Better After Battling The Flu

2018-01-22T23:22:00.001-06:00

My daughter And I after I started feeling better after battling the flu

My last post was on Christmas Day. Later that evening my dad didn't feel well and he ended up in the hospital for 3 weeks. He's feeling better now. While driving back home late Christmas night, I was feeling chills, then hot, coughing, nausea, muscle aches, and my throat hurt. I was so weak, tired, and feverish the next day that I literally slept and stayed in bed for the next 2 days. I went to the doctor on day 3 and it was confirmed that I had the flu. I declare that I felt horrible for 2 weeks. The week of Christmas and New Years, my whole vacation from work was spent trying to get better from the flu. The interesting thing is that I was no longer contagious after 5-10 days of getting sick, but some of the symptoms lingered. I wore those masks that my doctor gave me daily. I didn't want my family to get sick. Today it's 4 weeks later and I promise that cough and congestion is just fully leaving. I feel like myself. I never get a flu shot, and try to stick to natural supplements, but I'm seriously thinking about getting the flu shot next year. It seems that the past few years, I get something in December, laryngitis and recently the flu. I'm going to try increasing my vitamin C intake, and doing as much hand washing as possible when at work dealing with students.

When dealing with the flu, what bought me comfort was vegetable soup and immune support tea (shout out to my cousin Valoria for making soup from scratch and then sending me tea). A nasal wash system from Walgreens, helped me to breathe and taste for a few hours when I started using it in week 2. This encouraged me to eat because I could taste for a few hours after using this and clearing mucous. Ibuprofen helped to keep my fever down, even on days when I could only eat a cracker. Bottled water was my ace! It kept me hydrated. Thanks to Instacart- for being a great service for me to do online grocery shopping from the store of my choice and have it delivered. My husband offered to take the kiddos shopping, but I know that list like the back of my hand, so it was just easier for me to select items in the app. I so appreciate technology!

Since this is a natural hair blog, I have to also mention my hair. It was a mess. It was curly and ready for a wash on Christmas Day, but I didn't have the energy or stamina to do it. I washed, deep conditioned, parted down the middle, and twisted it in 2 twists and let it dry under my hooded dryer on day 11. It was neat and allowed me to get the rest that my body forced me to get while battling the flu. At the end of 2 weeks, my daughter and I went to the salon to get our hair flat ironed and me another trim. I need to catch you all up on my new goal of growing out this hair color. No matter how much I deep condition, the colored portions of my hair just don't retain moisture like it did before having it dyed.

In the meantime, stay warm and maintain your health during this flu season. Please see your doctor if you are sick or have symptoms of the flu. It's serious. Good health and blessings to all!

Check out my Previous Posts:

My Curls And A Cup Of Tea

Celebrating 3 Years Natural And Today Laryngitis Free

Merry Christmas!!!

2017-12-25T13:08:00.003-06:00

Merry Christmas! May you have a day filled with thanks!

Check out my previous Christmas Posts:

Merry Christmas and Happy Holiday!

Celebrating 3 Years Fully Natural and Today Laryngitis Free

My Curls And A Cup Of Tea

Barbara Naturally Speaking

Coronavirus Meetings and Grooming

Merry Christmas!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Satin Pillow Cases at The Arts and Culture Fair

Camille Rose Naturals Wash And Go

Merry Christmas!

The African Festival of The Arts Chicago Is Full Of Culture, Food, and Clothing

Satin Pillow Cases At The Arts And Culture Fest 2018 And My Henna Tattoo

Greet Me This Saturday At The Barbara Naturally Speaking Table At The Fest!

When: Saturday August 5th, 2018Where: Douglas Park- 1401 S. Sacramento Dr., Chicago, Il 60623Time: 10 am - 7 pm

It's free and it's fun! Bring the family!

Gluten Free Snack - Home Style Sweet Pickled Beets

What's your favorite gluten free and vegan snack or meal?

Thank God It's Natural Walmart Launch Party - Congratulations Chris-Tia Donaldson

A Wash And Go With A Twist

Reminiscing About Prince Via My Recent Visit At Paisley Park

Vegan And Gluten Free Version of Barbecue Pulled Pork- Jackfruit In Disguise!

And The Winner Of The Satin Pillowcase Is.....

Curl Clinic Recap- April 2018

Come Out This Saturday April 14th, And Learn Some Natural Hair Tips, About Styles, Products, And More!

April 4th Marks The Death Of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. - Remembering His Life

Protective Styling With Ghana Braids And Box Braids

What kind of protective styles are you doing to give your hair a break from daily styling?

Cereal and Gluten Free Cereal In Celebration Of National Cereal Day

Vegetarian And Gluten Free Tacos From The Restaurant- Friday Night Take-Out

Protective Styles - Flat Twists

Braid Outs Provide Moisture- Never Say Never

Smiling And Feeling Better After Battling The Flu

Merry Christmas!!!

When: Saturday August 5th, 2018
Where: Douglas Park- 1401 S. Sacramento Dr., Chicago, Il 60623
Time: 10 am - 7 pm