NuVisions: Transitioning Hair Care, Beauty, Cosmetics, & More

My Nexxus Hair Care Experience

2012-07-16T19:10:00.000-05:00

So I love the Nexxus Line of shampoos and conditioners. I had been tweeting about this brand the other day and realized I never blogged about so here it goes.

Background

Now before I began transitioning I was a use whatever type of girl. Well that's not entirely true I try products and if I absolutely fall in love with them, they become my staple until I either can't afford it or run out and didn't replace them or I find something new. At the point of discovering Nexxus I had decided I was going to transition and had been doing so for about 6 months. At six months into my transition I was still getting used to this new process. My hair was extremely dry. All I knew was to do protective styles, protective styles, protective styles, if I wanted to keep my length. The only protective style I was good at was mini twist so that is what I did. I kept my hair in these twist because they prevented me from combing it and it resembled a wrapped style so I was used to that. The product I used on my hair before this was basically the Suave brand. I only used the Suave brand because it was Christmas time and I was cutting cost to be able to give the kids a nice holiday. But before then I was using the Pantene relaxed to natural line.

Typically I begin with a Shampoo. That is if I had been faithful to my routine and didn't need to give my hair any extra TLC. The Shampoo smells really good. Its thick and has great lather. The slip is nice and it's ultra moisturizing. At first I pump 2 to 3 pumps on my hands and rub into my hair. Because of the product build up and dirt on the hair the lathering will be tough. Once that is massaged through I rinse and repeat. The second Wash I will only need 1 pump sometimes 2 but I rarely need to use two. The lathering is great at this point. If you use too much it will be hard to rinse out.

Next I condition. And the Humectress Ultimate Moisture Conditioner is whats happening. I mean it has a medium consistency. Softens the hair beyond belief. Detangles like a champ, is true to its word in moisturizing and smells wonderful--almost tropical. Your hair is definitely more manageable, hydrated, and has a silky sheen to it. I love love love this product. Its definitely my favorite out of all the products.

When I need a protein treatment I go for Keraphix conditioner. It smells really good. and stops my breakage. The only thing is this product dries my hair out tremendously so I have to replenish my hair with a hot oil and an extensive conditioning treatment.

To combat frizz I use the Silken smoothing conditioner. Its an added step that is purely based off my preference. But its also moisture rich and softens the hair. Lots of people says it combat the frizzness and I suspect that it does but I don't mind frizz!

So that's my review of the Nexxus line. no matter what I have been trying lately I have come back to these products to rescue my hair. When I am experiencing breakage. I come back to this. When I experience dryness I come back to this. When my hair is just not acting right I come back to this.

If you are having difficulty with your transitioning hair, I strongly encourage you to try this product line out. It not only restores your damaged, dry, brittle, lifeless hair. But it brings a manageability to it that is unheard of if you have two totally opposite textures of hair. The Nexxus line has help me to presevere through this transition. I honestly believe if it was not for this product line I would not have been able to transition as long as I have been!!

Check out the video:

Tips for the perfect twist out on Transitioning Hair

2012-06-29T18:26:00.000-05:00

So I'm sitting here trying out a new technique for a twist-out on my hair and thought I should write a post about doing a twist out so here goes! You know since its my favorite Transitioning style!

The Basics:

First, I start off on clean just washed hair, whether its shampooed washed or co-washed doesn't really make a difference!

Then detangle, beginning at the tips combing up towards the roots.

Next, I apply my styler/leave in. I am using Suave tropical coconut conditioner currently. Rake through strands.

Then, I apply a holding agent. I switch between eco-styler gel olive oil or olive oil by ampro.

Next, I seal it all with an oil blend. Whatever works well with your texture will suffice.

The Style:

So, I begin by first planning how I want my hair to fall. I decide if I want my waves going off to the side, or if I want a part in the middle or if I want all my hair to fall towards the back.

After that, I began sectioning and parting.

Once that is all done I style my hair in flat twist.

Note: Flat twist are the two strand version of cornrolls.

I like flat twist because:

A) They allow me to grab my roots (which are much more flufflier than my relaxed hair)

B) Gives a more defined wave pattern

C) Fits nicely under a cap or bonnett if I have to make a run while they are still in the drying process

D) Are comfortable to sleep in

Lastly, I allow them to COMPLETELY dry. (sometimes this process can take a day or longer).

Note: the longer you keep your hair in the twist the more defined the wave pattern will be.

The Takedown:

Now to take down the twist. I oil my hands and run them across my twists. Also oil helps to cut down on the stress your fingers can put on your hair.

Then I unravel them carefully and leave them in the sections/chunks until they are all taken down.

Once they are all down, I seperate each section until I get the fullness I want.

After that, I pick them out at the roots for height/volume.

Then, I position my strands in the desired look I was going for (or sometimes the direction my hair choose to fall in)

And lastly (comepletely optional) I adorn with accessories.

If this new technique turns out good. I will definitely do a vlog/blog about it. Until then I really appreciate you taking the time to read this. If you find it helpful share!

Catch me at www.twitter.com/ExquisiteTresse on twitter, www.youtube.com/ExquisiteEsteem on yoututbe and www.facebook.com/NaturalExquisiteTresses on Facebook.

Carol's Daughter 1-2-3 transitioning kit review

2012-06-23T21:11:00.002-05:00

So, I was so kindly given this Carol's Daughter transitioning 1-2-3 kit at a focus group a few weeks back (see Rachel O's blog for more info http://www.makeupbyrachelo.com/2012/05/31/transition-with-carols-daughter/#more-2044) to try out and give my opinion on so here goes on 12 month transitioning tresses.

According to the website:

http://www.carolsdaughter.com/Portal.aspx?CN=C0B4D6EFEFD1

The First & Only Relaxed-To-Natural Hair Solution Specifically Made For Transitioners!
93% Less Shedding, Healthier Scalp & Softer Strands*
This easy 3-step kit offers a solution to the 3 problems transitioners face: product build-up, scarred scalp & breakage at the points of demarcation. Now big choppers, long grow-outs and protective stylers can transition from relaxed to natural hair with less shedding, a healthier scalp and softer hair.

The Good!!

I love that this product is specifically for transitioners.
Natural hair stayed soft.
Hair felt hydrated.
It gives you a step by step guide as how to cleanse and treat your hair.
The smell is wonderful.
The tingling is great.
It has biotin in it to promote hair growth which is always good. Us transitioners want our curls now!!!!

The Bad :(

The detangling process is the same to worse.
The point of demarcation is very evident my relaxed hair matted up but my natural hair remained softened.
Its time consuming.

In summary, the product is ok. I think its a great product for someone that has no clue as to what you are to do to manage transitioning hair. It gives you a guide to how to cleanse, massage and condition your hair. Sometimes we leave out the massage part of our regime this product forces you to incorporate that into your routine. Also this product adds biotin, a known hair growth vitamin, to your list of products used on your hair in a convenient way.

But if you already have a routine then this kit may slow you down a bit. Someone that already knows how to wash, detangle, condition, and massage/exfoliate their hair will not necessarily see an added benefit from this product.

I did notice that I had no product build-up after I washed and conditioned. As far as breakage I wasn't impressed by that claim. I've used the product a few times and my breakage has not decreased as of yet. When I was using my old shampoo my breakage was very minimum.

IMPORTANT!!!!! Comment Below!!!!!

What do you think? Have you tried the transitioning kit? What have been your results? Let's share so we can help others that is transitioning as well. Everyone will have different results so its good to share and hear other opinions!!!!

Moisture is Magic for your transitioning hair!!!!!!

2012-06-16T15:38:00.001-05:00

Moisture Moisture Moisture. Yea us transitioners really need moisture. Moisture helps prevent breakage, moisture allows manageability, moisture promotes growth, moisture aids in elasticity, moisture helps with shine/sheen, and moisture feeds your curls.

Moisture is vital for your overall hair health. So lets talk about what moisture is and what it is not.

Moisture is:

Water
The base of all styling
Conditioning
humectants such as: glycerin, honey, aloe vera, vitamin E, sorbitol, CoQ 10
most water based products

Moisture is not:

Oils
creams
heavy
waxes
alcohols

Some of us confuse the needs of our hair. We tend to cake our hair down with oils when it feels dry and brittle. When in fact all we need to do is add water. Now I know it may confusing, you may ask well "how do I add water onto my hair when I need to style it and have it not look "afro-y" or puffy?" well the thing is you may need to increase your washes. I know in the African American hair community we are used to washing any where from once a week to once a month because we've had to maintain that hairstyle, not wash that relaxer out so fast, or to prevent us from hours of styling to maintain controlling our tresses. But now that we are tranistioning, part of this journey is to promote hair health so we have to change our way of dealing with our hair. Increasing your wash days will definitely make a difference for your hair. It is recommended that you wash your tresses anywhere from everyday to every 4-5 days if you are experiencing extreme dryness, I am sure if you are a dry haired sufferer and you take heed and wash more often, you will notice your moisture retention increase. In fact I'm willing to bet the farm on it- if I had a farm!

In between washes a spray bottle filled with just water will do just fine or you can add one of the other moisture aids listed in (Moisture is). All you have to do is allow the water to mist onto your hair if you are afraid that the direct spray will ruin your style (Spray the water into the air above your hair and allow the droplets to fall ever so lightly onto your hair). Do this when you feel your is drying out too much.

Oil is a great sealant but it cannot and must not be substituted for a moisturizer. This is because oil repeals water (remember that from chemistry class). So any kind of moisture that your hair wants to contract, the oil will "push" it away. So when the moisture that is beneath the oil is all absorbed into your scalp or hair fibers new moisture has no way of entering or penetrating them. Which is why you may be oiling your hair over and over and the texture is not changing. Again use oil as a protectant. As if its protecting the water from leaving your hair never use it as a replacement for water.

One last point, and I know we say it over and over and over and over again. But you have to hydrate from within in order to aid all that you are doing to you hair on the outside. You want to maintain overall good hair health. Yea moisturizing on the outside will definitely provide a great improvement for your hair but on those days when you forget to moisturize or are just too lazy to do so hydrating from the inside is your back up. Drinking plenty of water is great for your physical health now you know its also great for your vanity!

So you wanna Transition to Natural hair........?

2012-06-15T19:31:00.000-05:00

Since I have been in transition for approximately 12 months, I feel like I have learned a thing or two about transitioning hair. My goal is to help out my fellow ladies and gentlemen that wishes to transition as well. To make the transition easier being prepared will make the difference.

First off, I hope you have a clear reason as to why you are transitioning. Whether the reason is because you have been curious about your natural tresses, you have damaged your tresses, maybe you have relaxer horror stories, or you want a more healthier overall lifestyle. I would just encourage that you seek your soul and identify YOUR reasoning for wanting to grow out your natural hair. I think this will help you stay on track with this journey because, yes, this will be a journey and as with any journey only the most determined will survive.

Transitioning is not any easy task. It takes times, dedication, stamina, patience, lots and lots of patience, willingness to learn and adaption.

You will have to adapt to a new way of thinking, a new way of styling your hair, and a new way as to how other people will relate to you with transitioning hair. Styling is a new challenge in and of its self. When you were relaxed....well I know for me, I never really thought about how to comb my hair. I just put the comb to the root and raked it through. During your transition that is a big no! no! You can risk breaking your fragile tresses and the reason we have decided to transition is to keep as much of our hair as possible, right?! So, readjusting the way you approach your hair care is going to be necessary. Now, I will say it is going to take some time to get used too. Of course, we know we are not perfect, and we will make mistakes, but the key is to learn from them. I would encourage you to learn as much as you can about transitioning and natural hair during this time. As with any thing practice makes perfect.

Also, remember that the best way to transition is with what is called protective styling. That can be anything from weaves to braids, from mini twist to corn rolls. However you choose to transition is up to you. But you need to be fully aware of your lifestyle and the needs of your hair. Let me encourage you to be patient! Be patient with hair and be patient with yourself.

Patience is one thing that I know is very hard to master. We want those natural curls and we want them NOW!!! But unless we decide to big chop (BC) we have to exercise patience. It will take time for your hair to grow, its gonna take time to find what products work for your transitioning hair, it's gonna take time to determine the correct styling technique that will make your hair look its best. Yes, seriously patience is a well deserved virtue. So if there was ever a time to call upon it, it is definitely now.

With that said, let me explain why stamina is important. I am on my second attempt at transitioning. The first time I felt like "I need a relaxer I cannot comb this nappy stuff!" I have a thick head of hair. It tangles very easily and I have never dealt with it in any other manner but relaxed or curly permed aka jerhi curl. So if the comb did not go through my hair easily from root to tip then I knew it was time for some kind of chemical to be laid on my hair to make it silky manageable again. Well, being the second time around, I am determined to see this through! Stamina is oh so important. You have to see this journey through to the end. You have to keep pushing on even on those days that you can't figure out how to make your hair "acceptable" to leave the house. Only a dedicated transitioner will get creative and keep on keeping on!

So stay dedicated and I know by the end of the journey you will be so so happy with your tresses. We truly have an exquisite head of hair. Our hair can be kinky, wavy, curly, afro-y, straight, or coiled and still be beautiful, fashionable, individualized, and trend setting. Our tresses our our own as we are learning no two heads of hair are alike. Continue to pull through show off your EXQUISITE TRESSES!!!!!!!!

A Transitioner's Tale (Ode to self): I'm getting so anxious.....Big chop???????

2012-01-23T04:17:00.001-06:00

I'm getting so anxious to cut my hair! I can already feel the texture of my unrelaxed hair. Its beautiful :-) I love how silky my hair feels after I wash it. I enjoy learning about what my hair likes and how it behave in its natural state. I have been thinking of all the many, many styles I can't wait to try when I'm fully unrelaxed. I had planned on transitioning for 12-24 months (they say don't put a number to it). But idk I am too anxious to see my hair without straight ends. We'll see. I wanted to at least last until my vacation this summer so i can rock a new look. But I'm thinking spring is right around the corner and what better time to refresh your look. Plus I may need some time to "play in my hair" to get used to styling. Pictures will be nice. Yep, they will be! I have some time. I can revisit the "cut or not to cut" issue in the March/April months. Yep, I can make my decision then. I hope I can make it thru to 24 months so I can just go straight to what I'm used to which is length. But I never have had short hair and it excites me right now. Seriously, just thinking of the feeling of having only unrelaxed hair and being able to experience it! Lol......this type of decision may be very trivial but hey if I have time to allow this type of "dilemma" to occupy my thoughts then I know Life is so good! no BIG time major decisionmaking going on right know (thank ya Jesus) :-). Plus I'm pretty sure I can rock some short hair. ;-) and make it look damn good!

So we shall see. Can I hold out or will I allow my anxiousness to get the best of me? Stay tuned to see.........

Flaxseed Gel, Coconut Oil, Olive Oil & Shea butter makes for one bouncy two strand twist bob

2011-11-14T14:53:00.001-06:00

I just had to brag about the two hand twist out I did on my hair over the weekend. I've had my oils for some time now and I've been watching YouTube, of course, trying to figure out how I am going to use them. I know I need a regime especially when transitioning because the hair is more susceptible to breakage and excessive shedding. I have actually been experiencing excessive shedding and breakage lately so I wanted to do a protective style to help me care for my hair. Well I love two strand twist because it an easy style and fairly quick to do --its sort of a 2-for-1 style. I can wear it as two strand twist for up to a week and the wear the twist out for about a week. I can even get more creative if I want to but time does not allow that very often. So anyway, in addition to the oils I decided to use try out the flaxseed gel especially bc I knew I was gonna need something to hold my twists taut. When I decided to transition I vowed to use all natural homemade products on my hair. I really like the idea of having complete control of what I am putting into my hair. I want not only length but also a healthy head of curls. I know to help achieve this I need to put in nourishing products.

In trying to figure out what can I do to stop the shedding and breakage I again looked to YouTube and google searches. In all my searches the common solution was asking the same question "How much are you oiling your hair?" Well for me it was not hardly. I mean I religiously wash once a week Oil when I do my initial style but that's it. See when I was relaxed my hair would hold oil so I had gotten used to holding off on the oil so much. I mean my definition of oil was oil moistures such as PINK oil or Pantene moisturizing creme. So oiling on a regular is somewhat forgein to me. I really am going to have to get use to the thought of feeding my hair oil more that once a week or so. Some ladies suggested oiling as much as twice a day (I imagine that is for extremely dry hair). The trick for me is figuring out how much oil my unrelaxed hair need to thrive and how much my relaxed hair need to maintain.

So what's my reaction to flaxseed gel, oils, and butter twist? GREAT!!!!! I absolutely love it. The gel provided enough hold to keep the braids from unraveling as well as providing the nourishment of the seeds. The oils gave my hair the much needed conditioning as well as the antioxidants, vitamins, and protection that it needed to start the process of stopping the breakage and promote growth while maintain the length and over health of my hair. I received numerous compliments while out and about as to how shiny my braids looked how bouncy they were (which mean no weighting down from too much oils and gels). My hair felt good, airy and breezy! I am definitely using this as my go to winter protective style!

Regime:
Cowashed, hot oil treatment which included jojoba, coconut, almond, castor, olive, and grapeseed oils. Covered with plastic cap for 30 mins with a towel wrapped around my head. Shampoo washed, conditioned. Parted in four sections detangled applied leave in conditioner and then saturated each section with olive and coconut oil, sealed with shea butter twisted with flaxseed gel that I added vitamin E to, and let dry over night. Note: Hair did become dry during the process so I sprayed the dried areas with water as I braid.

If you used the gel let me know how your continued results have been. If you can testify that oils is the answer to ending breakage please also let me know as i am really trying to remedy this issue. Thanks for reading!!!

Ethnic Skin Care

2011-11-09T22:28:00.000-06:00

The biggest issue for African Americans, Asians and Hispanics as related to skin care is hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation. This is a highly underserved market that requires attention.

Maybe its been ignored because of the varied overtones and undertones of ethic skin or maybe its because of the so-called problem skin that we have whether its darker in some spots and lighter in others. Or maybe still its due to the lack of education per the consumer of the products that are currently on the market for ethnic skin. Whatever the case the fact remains that skin care target market strategy is not highly geared toward the people with ethnic skin.

Hyperpigmentation, according to webmb.com, is the increase of melanin in the skin. Common causes are acne scarring, over exposure to sun, pregnancy, and drugs Rx or otherwise. To avoid hyperpigmentation in the first place I can offer some tips. Although I am not a dermatologist I have been interested in skin care and the prevention of preventable flare ups of our skin for years. So here goes.........
1. allow acne to heal normally. I know its ugly, unattractive, and even gross at times but the long term results of not messing with the pimple are a lot better than dealing with the dark mark that picking with it leaves behind.
2. SPF people. Find a sunscreen that has an SPF of 30 or higher especially in the summer months. For those that are fortunate enough to have hot weather year round you need SPF year round. The sun is baking your skin. Look, when you put a piece of meat in the oven and turn the temperature up and leave it in there for awhile the end result will be a dried piece of meat that has some kind of blackened texture. But when you put some kind of protectant over the meat whether its water or foil or what have you it take longer for the meat to gain the darken dried texture. The same can be said about our skin. If we overexpose ourselves to the sun over time hyperpigmentation will occur. Now I've heard some people feel if their skin has an increased melanin sunscreen is not necessary. I can't tell you how much that have been proven to be so untrue. While yes its true that the visible effects can be seen more quickly on a person with fairer skin the damage that it can do on a darker skin tone is still prevalent. Sunscreens can be found in many cosmetics nowadays so if you don't want to put something extra on your face then make sure you read the labels on your cosmetics and pick ones that contains an SPF. Apply it frequently and generously!!!!
3. During pregnancy some women experience what is referred to as "the mask of pregnancy". This type of hyperpigmentation typically goes away once the hormones have regulated. Usually nothing has to be done to treat this. Keep with regular routine of washing, exfoliation and toning. This is the time to adjust skin care to match the hormonal changes that is occurring in your body. Some become sensitive to products that have been used prior to pregnancy. So just reevaluate what you have been doing and make adjustments when and if necessary. Pregnancy is a time when that natural glow is showcased. So enhance it, show it, and flaunt it.
4. Rx and other drugs tend to change everything about how our body operates. So naturally if after taking a drug you notice changes in your skin you may want to stop taking the drug. But that's not always feasible especially if its a Rx that helps alleviate another aliment so you may have to either live with the discoloration, hide it with makeup, or treat with with more Rx or skincare regimens. Never stop a Rx because its not agreeing with your skin. Instead bring it to your doctors attention. There maybe an allergic reaction that you or the doctor was not aware of or the Rx may be able to be adjusted. Whatever the case take this time to also reevaluate your current skin regime and adjust as necessary.

manage my transitioning hair

2011-11-09T22:20:00.000-06:00

What am I using to manage my transitioning hair?

Like many of you all I am hooked on youtube. I like seeing what is working for some and not so much for others. I am very intrigued with the many different regimes that each natural has come up with to deal with their texture of hair. I also love that it has brought so many people in the kitchen to mix up shea butter mixes, deep conditioners, no-poos, shampoos, oil mixes, growth serums, remedies for dry hair, fizzy hair, kinky hair etc. Its very interesting that our hair has so many dimensions and require so many strategies. I am so anxious to discover how my hair looks with no relaxers, flat irons, curling irons or any heat what so ever applied to it. I have already been experimenting with coconut oils, shea butters, almond oils, castor oil, natural shampoos, conditioners, and of course water.

From my relaxed days I know my hair responds well to weekly washings and conditionings, I used to deep condition once a month and moisturize every other day. I plan to still follow this plan because my hair has always been healthy. I used to get trims every 6 weeks or so. Now I plan on moving it to every 8 weeks. I also plan on maintaining lots of protective styles to keep my health especially while transitioning. I know that line of demarcation needs to be treated with intense care and I want to minimize the breakage as much as possible.

The good thing about transitioning is that I can play with hair styles now. My favorite style is twist outs. I love the waviness of the braided hair. I also love rocking the braids in a bob style. While my hair is twisted up (in tiny tiny twist) I can style it as if it was a wrap, I can pull it back in a bun, pin it up, push it all to the side. Whatever I wanna to do with it. I can keep that up for up to a week (longer but I be needing a change). After the week is over I unbraid it and switch up the style and wear it in a variety of ways until it becomes too unmanageable.

This is just the beginning of my journey........

Transitioning to Natural (Hair that is): Its a family affair

2011-11-08T13:33:00.000-06:00

This is a hair blog!!!!

So I have a little one that has never had a relaxer. For years I have wrestled with the thought of letting my relaxer go. I tried once last yr and lasted about 3 months. Recently a family member of mine mentioned on facebook that she was thinking of going natural, so I commented well if u do it I will too. Thus here I am today!!! I have decided yet again to go natural. I have so many reasons as to why I would like to take this journey. But one of the most inspirational one would be because my oldest daughter would like to join me. So this will truly be a family affair. As I stated earlier I already have one that has never had a relaxer (my youngest daughter) my oldest daughter has decided she also wants to see how her hair is in its natural state.

Ultimately we have the same end goal but are going to achieve it a little differently. I want to learn how to style my hair so that when it is in its completely natural state I will have it mastered already. So I will be experimenting with transitioning styles. She, on the otherhand, will be wearing braids and weaves until she has her desired length and ready to cut off her relaxed ends. Mainly because she is on here way to high school and is not all that comfortable with dealing with two hair textures. My last relaxer was in June of this year 2011. Her last relaxer was about May of this year.

During this transition we both will achieve healthy hair, as much growth as possible, as well as establish a regime that is suited for our lifestyle and hair type. I am so excited about this hair journey I can't wait until I have no more traces of relaxer in my hair. I am eager to see my curls. For anyone that is reading and has transitioned GOOD FOR U I CAN'T WAIT TO CATCH UP TO U, to those that are TRANSITIONING STAY ENCOURAGED ITS GONNA BE A GREAT RIDE and for those thinking about it I HOPE WILL WILL JOIN US ON THIS JOURNEY.

Renewing my mind for P90X!!!

2011-11-05T21:28:00.001-05:00

So I am going to restart P90X this Monday, Halloween!!! Now if that ain't a challenge I don't know what is! I have so much confidence in myself that I am up for it. Usually I would agree that its a set up for failure, but I know how I work and to think of it as a challenge would help get me through it. Anyway so restarting....I don't feel the same way I felt the 1st time trying. I guess the 1st time I was excited, not knowing what the 1st workout was gonna be like. Actually experiencing this challenge that I watched so many times before on infomerical got me so anticipated for it. I don't know but this time was more like I need this workout. I enjoy doing it, so I need to use this tool to guide me back to health. Focusing on the health aspect of it gets my attention a little better than working out to get my body back. {SN: I'm listening to I heart radio Wgci Chicago, and every song for the last 5 songs has been young money, Drake, Lil Wayne or some combo...crazy. I love it though but crazy} So this month has been Breast Cancer awareness month and my mother has been diagnosed 3x's. So my health has to be important to me.

With that said and my trip to FL next summer on my mind, I am back recommitted. Ready to Keep pushing play and to Bring it!
I am following the food guide which is something that I didn't do before. I went grocery shopping already to pick up all the food. I only was able to go to 2 stores (Aldi and Walmart) to pick up the things that I needed. And I sub where I either didn't like something or it wasn't available at the stores I was at. (Read ______ for the grocery blog). I plan on following the meal approach bc for how busy my life is continually becoming. I am also taking a cue from P90X and planning my kids meals a week ahead as well for the days they don't prefer the taste of a particular food that the guide suggests. I am also making a food diary so as to hold myself accountable. As well as blog about my experience. I hope this time I succeed. 5:00 am is the wake up call. I seem to do better when I go ahead and get the workout out of the way. Tentatively I plan on working out , shower, get the kids up for school, and then eat so hopefully I prove to myself i can! Just do my best and forget the rest right?!

Sick of working out

2011-04-29T20:08:00.000-05:00

So I'm in Phase 3 of P90X and I am doing doubles instead of doing Cardio X I sub it for Insanity. I have to admit I am so sick of working out. I may be over my head by doing two workouts per day along with my everyday life. My thought process is I want results and I want it fast. I will admit I've only been doing Insanity for 3 days but I already see results. Yayy!!! That alone keeps me Digging deeper, but seriously I am sick of working out. I hate it big time. I want to quit so bad. This hybrid is a bittersweet journey I am sore all the time, I am tired all the time, it takes alot of my free time and Its hard!!!!! It's hard, its hard, its hard. I can't wait until it is all over. I have these last 30 days of P90X and 60 days of Insanity to get through. I would like to do a second round but I am not sure if I will do so immediately or wait awhile or at all. Please send me your positive vibes as I need the energy. I just wanted to write a quick post regarding a real moment. I am not giving up but I am at a point where I am frustrated with working out. I am trying to change my attitude but don't know quite how!!!

P90X---ending the 2nd Phase

2011-04-23T11:54:00.000-05:00

So, I'm in my recovery week of Phase 2 and thinking of what I have endured these last 2 months. P90X was something that my fiancee wanted to try since our vacation last summer. While in Orlando he was up one night and caught the infomercial and was convinced that this was the workout for him. I was soooooooooooooooooooo skeptical. It looked hard and the infomercial didn't ease my worries. I kept hearing Tony Horton saying its not easy.... So naturally being as overweight was I was I became afraid. After I took a look at the results I was curious to try it out but still a little afraid that I wouldn't be able to stick with it.

But almost 60 days later all I can say is wow!!!!! My results although not as dramatic as some are still definitely visible. Its been a though 60 days but well worth it. I wanted to quit, I got discouraged, I've been disappointed, I've been elated, energized, happy, renewed all in 60 days. I have to admit working out everyday is not ideal for me. Its definitely been a bittersweet process. I can't wait to reveal my results. This last phase of round one we are attempting to do doubles. Doubles is a Cardio workout in the am and a weightlifting (some cardio) in the pm.

The key word here is attempt. I am not really excited about going to doubles but I want more dramatic results. Also thinking in round 2 to do a hybrid of P90X and Insanity. I am not fully committed to that one yet but we'll see how this last phase goes. I have knee issues and Insanity may not be ideal for me just yet. But I'm hoping doing doubles will prepare me. Well P90X-er's I've been still bringing it, and will continue to do so at least through these next 30 days. Will check back in to let you know my success at a later date and to also let you know my decision as to weather or not I will do the hybrid. O I'm also thinking of becoming a coach. I talked to my fiancee about possibly doing a couples type of workout coaching. So let me know what you think? Have any questions? I'm not an expert but I can give you the perspective of a busy mom that's been trying to lose weight for yrs. Need encouragement? I can help you out with that as well. Send anything comments, questions, or if you just need to vent I'm here for you. So talk to you soon. As always Remember to brush your teeth in the shower!!!!!

Grab your partner man!!!!!

2011-03-31T18:27:00.000-05:00

Working out with a partner is so much better than going at it alone. So I suggest that you ask around to family and friends and get moving. In my small town we started a 90 day challenge. Ppl in the neighborhood along with family and friends have all joined in to get healthier in 90 days. Everyone has picked their own method but the goal for all is the same.

At home my whole family is involved in this new lifestyle change. I workout with my fiancee and my children workout together. It helps so much having a partner. When I don't want to workout he pushes me and vice versa. I see the same with my children. When one don't feel up to it the others will give them that needed push. Working out with a partner also makes the time fly by. We talk and laugh during the workout, it helps take your mind of the exercise even if its for a few seconds. Sometimes its those last seconds that you need distracting from to get to through the burn. Also I enjoy watching his transformation and I hope he enjoys watching mine. The other day I commented on how he looks as if a sculptor is molding and reshaping his body. I see him gaining muscle in so many areas and loosing fat in others.

After P90X my fiancee grabs a few of his friends and they go for an hr long walk, then hit the weight room (mainly bc his friends aren't doing the p90X and he just wants to be their encourager) to get a little extra weightlifting in with the guys, then he's off to work (he's a barber) After my workout I go to work. Lol I have been thinking of incorporating walking hopefully next week to help prepare me for my summer goal of running. I have dreams of running along side Lake Michigan.

Go out and grab someone and ask them if they are interested in some support. It will be good for both of you!!! There's no better gift to share than the gift of health. You never know you may inspire someone to get up and make a life changing decision to get fit for life. Know that healthier eating habits and exercise should be a lifestyle change....after all its good for you right? So until next time:

REMEMBER TO BRUSH YOUR TEETH IN THE SHOWER!!!!

First clasps hook on my bra!!!!

2011-03-31T18:03:00.000-05:00

So, now that I have your attention........ I know the title is funny sounding. But that is exactly what happened this morning. I was able to clasp my bra on the first row of hooks. Some of you may not share my excitement but some of you do understand what that feeling is like!!!! So, when I got dressed this morning, I was thinking I should try a bra that was at the bottom of my under clothes container, (they were now my too little bras) not really believing it was going to fit. But wait......not only did it fit it was too loose when I attached the latch to the last row of hooks. That made me so excited that I skipped the 3 row, 2nd row and went straight for the 1st row of clasps and I still had room after I clasped....sweet victory!!!!! Maybe I can get these DD's down to a nice D or a full C (fingers crossed). Ok I just wanted to share my P90X accomplishment today. Still Bringing it on day 32. Small victories help you stay on track. Until next time remember:

Brush your teeth in the shower!!!!

Starting Phase 2: Keep pushing play

2011-03-27T23:29:00.000-05:00

Quick Blog:

I am watching the 1st wrkout in Phase 2 and I am a lil scared lol. I know I haven't blogged in a while but I have been busy wrking overtime and keeping up with the kids and doing p90x (still going strong). Tired is not the word I would use to describe what I have been feeling. But my motivation out weighted the tiredness. I see my body changing. Yes!!!! OK diet still not what the nutritional guide suggests but for the most part I am eating more leaner, more veggies, and fresh fruits. At this point I am very very very pleased with my results. I am stronger, more focused, more energetic (but tired weird huh?), happier. Wow happier did I just type that.

I did the lean program for the 1st Phase. 2nd Phase I'm goin to classic. I am ready to Bring it! I have decided to post my pics bc I am truly sticking with it. This is the longest I have stuck with anything that has to do with my health. P90x is Fun yet challenging. I look forward to learning new routines, and to see my improvements week after week. Anyone that has a competitive edge in them will enjoy the challenge that is p90x.

But back to my scariness, Chest, shoulders, and triceps is scary. But as my baby just reminded me we was afraid day 1. It really helps having him wrkout with me we encourage each other b4, during, and after. Well I figured I blog since I had some free time. I'll be back to talk about week 4 recovery week. And me having a breakdown and almost quitting o and how I felt when I pulled clothes outta my "box" and they actually fit some things were too big in some cases. So until next time:

Remember to brush your teeth in the shower!!

day 6- 11 n still goin strong

2011-03-09T11:28:00.001-06:00

Monday was day 9, back to coresynergestics, today day 11 was biceps and shoulders . It was easier today, it could be bc I didn't actually complete the 1st week successfully. I skipped Kempo on day 6 :-( I felt guilty for it though. BUT I do have a confession I OVER indulged this weekend. So, my kids were away bc they had a 3 day weekend, u don't even understand I haven't have all my kids gone at the same time in almost 1yr!!! So, needless to say, me and my fiancee' needed some QT. But he had to work a weekend day --Saturday, so I spent it with my 2 BFF's.  Early afternoon, we ate IHop, shopped (for makeup and other beauty items of course), for lunch I ate chipotle, and for dinner papa johns.   I had a cinnastack (3 pancakes with cinnabonn cinnamon and icing) I also had scrambled eggs and cheese, hash brown with onions and 2 strips of bacon....yummy yum yum!!!! How much did I actually eat? HALF!!! I was so mad, I wanted to finish all of it. But as of late my stomach won't allow me to eat alot. I guess its good though, bc I didn't really plan on eating out allday that day but bc Ididn't have the kids to cook for and I was out the house ALL day, so I did. At chipotle I had a grilled chicken bowl with everything and once again I ate a little under half this time. I wasted so much food that day makes me upset thinking about it. So now we're at dinner and I ordered a chicken spinach alfredo pizza and boneless buffalo wings. They sent spinach alfredo and bone-in buffalo wings. I was a little pissed that they didn't put the chix on the pizza but it was cool bc of all the other stuff I ate that day. Of that meal I ate 2 slices of pizza and 2 buffalo wings. Now comes to Sunday's meal. LOL. I offered to take my man out since we both been working so hard (he's doing P90x also). We went to Applebees.  We ordered an appetizer which consisted of: spinach artichoke dip, buffalo chix (again), potato twist with Queso dip, woton (sp) chicken tacos as a main dish I ordered a fajita chicken wrap and fries he had a hand battered fish sandwich and fries. We each took a half of the others main dish and split the appetizers. What I ate? Well we both ate just the appetizers had to take the main dish hm for dinner. Which was cool bc again that meant I didn't have to cook.
Monday was back to normal I had to cook and all whomp whomp.  O we did incorporate a pre workout supplement into our diet this week called superpump 250. I will do a post on that after I have taken it for a week or so just so I can honestly tell u my experience with it.  Monday's are typically hard for me just bc its a new work week and u know me not being a morning person and all.

The start of week 2 has been ok so far. I am very tired this week. But it may be bc of that superpump. Some ppl on youtube says that since it gives u more energy during workouts u tend to push urself harder resulting in more tightness post workout I'm not sure but I do know I am tired. Day 9 was hard, day 10 was even harder and like I said today seems to be easier. I had to push through days 9 and 10, bc it was really hard to motivate myself!!!!.

All n all I'm still happy I am trying this program my body feels amazing. O Wow, how can I forget the most exciting part. Saturday while shopping I picked up a Medium shirt for kicks to try it on and guess what it actually fit!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! SWEET VICTORY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Before p90x I was in a XL shirt (the largest shirt size I have ever worn ever) Goal a loose fitting sized medium shirt tight fitting small sized shirt (ladies u know what I'm talking about). Still trying not to weigh in until day 30. But I see the difference already.

So far I am doin more of the dvd, for example, where I wasn't able to do 1 push up I can now do 3-4 without breaking. Chair dips I started out doing 20 with my legs bent week 2 I can do 25 straight legged. I graduated from 5lb weights to 10lb weights. So yea by day 30 I'll be nice and prepared for the 2nd round (which introduces plyometrics so excited yayy). So for those of u who are also trying P90X keep up the good work feel free to comment and share some of ur experiences with me I would love to hear about it!!!! Until next Post keep pushing play and bring it!!!!!!!!!!

Remember: Brush your teeth in the shower

still at it p90x day 4

2011-03-03T17:02:00.001-06:00

Today is day 4 Yoga X day!!!!! It was much needed as I was sore allllllll ova. LOL! Well so far so good. I was tempted to weight myself today bc I feel so amazing. I had to have lost something. I've notice my breathing is better (I have asthma) and I have energy (YES). Since this is my first phase I am following the Lean program and since I had gone shopping b4 I read the nutrition guide I am not following the recommended nutrition until my next shopping trip. Great news.....I have even more motivation. We r starting a 90 day biggest loser type challenge in my neighborhood, so this should be fun. I can't wait so far $100.00 is on the line, although we don't start until March 15th. So, until then I will be "Bringing it" on my own.

The 1st 4 days was cool. Since I already eat kinda healthy no major alterations to my diet had to b made. I have noticed an increase in my appetite. Before p90x I would eat one square meal and snack all day long. I have switched to 5 smaller meals, bc I am so hungry I guess I need to gas the engine so it can run. U kno the hardest thing for me, so far, as I predicted has been waking up so early in the am. I am not a morning person nor a night person, I love my sleep!!!!! So 4:30 wake up calls are a struggle. Its getting easier though.

Workouts:
So day one was Coresynergentics basically he started off strengthening our core to help support all the other workouts that we would have to endure. The second day was Cardio X, wow what a great workout. This is really when I cld say that my breathing got better. More core strengthening with this one as well. Day 3 shoulders, arms, abs: Lots of weight lifting and floor exercises (core, core, core). Tony definitely knows how to drive the fact that its basically our core that we need to strengthen b4 we can expect to be strong else where. Then like I said Yoga today. An 1 and 30 min total body workout/stretch. My body LOVED!!! this workout. I had to run errands yesterday and I so felt stiff and sore all over after this am's workout I am loose as a goose heehee.

I can't wait to weigh in to see my process although its tempting I am going to hold off until next week. I will post any weight or inches lost and fill u n on anything else. I may also post my meals a little later in case you are interested in what I've been eating these past few days. Also I am not taking any of the supplements that is suggested, I've been thinking about it but if I do I'll let u know which ones and what i think of them. And I am not doing any other programs (hybrids) I am going to stick with p90x and then once this round is over I will reevaluate and see whats next. Well wish we luck on the rest of my journey. Seems like I'm sticking to it so far. The longest I have been successful at anything like this has been 1 month so I will be celebrate every week. I hope you check back for an update soon. Thanks for reading and remember to brush ur teeth in the shower!!!!

2011-03-03T13:39:00.000-06:00

Well since I am starting this new lifestyle I needed to be prepared. So I went shopping for some fresh fruits and veggies. I'm not picky I actually really love fruits and vegetables but I only brought what was in season because of the price.
Here's what I brought:
Grapes, bananas, orange juice
strawberries, plums, kiwi
asparagus, cantaloupe
cucumbers, whole pineapple
tomatoes, ready made salads
oranges, blueberries, apples, grapefruit
I figure with these many selections I'd have plenty of picks to make a variety of dishes.
From trying so many diets I have learned that I get bored if I am told to eat the same foods. So, with a variety of fruits, vegetables, and meats I can make a very delicious meal that's healthy (I love to cook).
OK I just wanted to share my shopping as a result of me adding P90x to my life. I hope you join me next time. Stay tuned for the next update!!!!

Remember to brush your teeth in the shower!!!

Day 1 P90X

2011-03-03T13:38:00.000-06:00

Ok well today is going to be a totally different post but its still in line with my overall theme. I am transitioning to a healthier lifestyle. I aspire to be green, eat healthier, exercise regularly and live out some of my dreams. So keeping in mind my greener lifestyle I have decided to take the P90X challange.
Today is day 1!!!! so excited.
5 am---wake up
5:15 am--measurements, weight, before pictures
5:30 am -6:40am-- worked (out first dvd was coresynergentics)
showered got ready for the day
Went to work keeping in mind to eat every 2-3hrs.
Ok sample menu:
I ate nice breakfast (thanx baby...he made me breakfast): eggs w/cheese, potatoes, 3 strips of bacon.
I had a full spinach salad with tuna, for snack
leftover meatloaf with mixed veggies for lunch
small piece of baked chicken, rice, broccoli w/cheese for dinner
special k ceral bar (love these, the right amount of sweet yummy) for my last snack
So now for the workout:
Ok well as usual it starts off with stretching. Which felt so good because I am not a morning person and not to mention the fact that I dove right into it cold turkey (yesterday cake and ice cream today hardcore workout). Next some push ups in many different forms (ie planks, prison-style, side lifts), then we also had some cardio, a few yoga moves sprinkled in there, weights and other resistance training type exercises. The best thing about the workouts, to me, is Tony! He reassures you that it takes time to do what the demonstrators are doing and that we should only do whats in our limits. But to still push yourself. I've tried other workout dvds in the past and I have never seen one that encourages you so much to take it at YOUR pace. Thanks Tony!!!!!! Overall it was not very intensive in a fast pace sort of way but it was very effective slower more concentrated type movements . Throughout the day I felt different muscles contract at different times, (letting me know that I worked it in a way I hadn't done in a while) I would have a burst of energy one minute and then feel like I had just gotten done with a workout the next. (That was probably due more to me not being a morning person and having to get up 2 hrs before normal).
How I felt:
Well my background. I am over weight, I have a sit down job, requiring me to sit for over 10 hrs at times, 3 children but they are very independent, I'm in a relationship. So I have the basic duties of every mother/girlfriend such as cooking, cleaning, shopping etc. I'm not a very active person other than daily duties. I love to cook so i usually cook pretty semi-healthy. Although I am not a big eater I do tend to eat the wrong foods and I skip a lot of meals. I have a dangerous sweet tooth. Sometimes its outta control at other times I can control it much better. I hated water until recently. I decided I needed to drink more to be a good example for my children so I drunk nothing but water for 3 weeks and it worked!!!! I now crave water. That is a miracle if you knew me you would think so lol. I have tried various other workout video's and diets/lifestyle changes and some worked some didn't. Anyhow over the last 7 yrs I have been consistently gaining weight and this year finally decided to take control. Anyway back to how I felt, most of the day I was tense, not so sore that I was scarred to move but enough to remember that I had indeed took the p90x challenge. I needed a nap, had I had time I would have taken 1. A hot bath was definitely in order and my hunger was through the roof.
So like I said this is day 1 so we'll see how it goes. I am hoping to incorporate this in my lifestyle forever. It seems easy enough and very effective. If I see a change I would post before and after pictures and whatever dramatic change that I feel would help someone. So for now thanks for reading about my journey wish me luck. I hope this helps someone stay encouraged for whatever path of greatness their journey takes them.
Brush your teeth in the shower!!!!!

What happened?

2011-03-03T12:05:00.000-06:00

All my posts are gone what happened?