Products that I love! Some Considered Good & Some Considered Not So Good!

Let's Start of by saying that " I Love My Natural Hair"!

I am 3 Months into my 6 Month Protective Style Challege and I am thinking about extending the Challenge.  I have been wearing alot of 2 strand twist and mini-twists styles. The mini-twists can be styled like Loose Naps and I love the versatility.  With the protective styles I have changed my regimen to washing only when my hair has build up or my scalp itches or something (2-3 weeks).  I keep my hair well moisturized; paying special attention to my ends. I still consider myself a newbie and find more and more products (inexpensive), that gives my hair moisture, luster and general good health.   I will list all the products that I use today or alternatively use.





Oyin Handmade Honey Wash
Oyin Handmade Burnt Sugar Pomade
Oyin Handmade Honey Hemp Conditioner
Oyin Handmade Whipped Pudding & Frank & Greg Juice
Aloe Vera Gel
Unrefined Shea Butter
Rosemary, Peppermint, Tea Tree Essential Oils
Castor Oil & Extra Virgin Coconut Oil.
Campania: Pure Soybean Oil & Extra Virgin Olive Oil($1.00 at Dollar Tree)
Chagrin Valley Ayurveda Shampoo Bar, Coconut Butter Bar, Olive Bassau Bar.
Dabur Vatika Oil with Amla, Coconut Oil and Lemon & Herbs.
Shea Moisture Deep Treatment Masque ( for twisting) to use it up because didn't like it for a deep conditioning treatment
Butters n Bars Original Conditioning Masque (Haven't used but saw Jazzwife's review as a must have)
Carol's Daughter Hair Milk ( Havent used in a while but love this on my Wash N Go's in the Warm Months.

Some of the Commercial Items I've Used Successfully:

Herbal Essence (HE)  Hello Hydration
HE None of your Frizziness
HE Totally Twisted
Garnier Frutise Leave In Sleek N Shine
ORS Hair Mayonaise
QP Elasta DPR-11  and Mango Butter

When I initially went natural I tried the Miss Jessie's Sample Pack and Shampoo and Conditioner.  I really liked the shampoo and conditioner and Rapid Recovery & Baby Buttercreme.

I have in my cabinet a large Eco Styler Olive Oil Gel & a Clear Eco Styler Gel, however I only use the clear most times and rare use that because my edges are so fine and soft, the burnt sugar or whipped pudding will hold them in place.

For Christmas my Sister bought me a Ionic 2n1 Steamer which is the exact same as the Heutiful for $84.99 on Ebay.  Have not used it yet because of my late night Wash Days but will very soon.

About Soy Bean Oil - the brand that I use with the Olive Oil is 90% Olive Oil & 10% Soy Bean Oil

Here is an little bit about Soybean Oil:

The properties within the soybeans do more than just help hair maintain moisture. As you use soybean oil, over time you will also notice that this healthy oil strengthens your locks. Soybeans are dense and loaded with protein.

Hair is made of protein, and additional proteins consumed in your diet and put on your hair helps to add strength and durability. Of course, you will only get results with consistency, so be sure to use this oil on your hair often and eat a healthy diet. Organic soybean oil is best because it does not contain any pesticides or other chemicals.

Read more: Benefits of Soybean Oil for Hair | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/list_5798238_benefits-soybean-oil-hair.html#ixzz19WXUXsCP

 

Hair Goals for 2011:  Healthy & Fabulous Hair.
Shoulder length Shrunken Tresses and the Crown at least Chin Length. APL Stretched.

Personal Goals:  Get & Work a Effective Financial Plan, Maintain Healthy Relationships with my Family & Friends, Prosper at Work & Career.  Continue to Love My Lord & Savior.   Oh Yeah and Lose 15 pounds by February and keep it off.

Why do I wait until 9:30 pm on Sunday to make it Wash Day?

Well Happy Holidays to All,

It was very nice having family and friends over for Christmas Brunch and we had fun, great conversation and wonderful food.  Courtesy of My Cooking Skills.

Well I don't know why I wait to Wash and Style my hair until 930-10pm at night but it seems like I always do.   Of course my twisting session/wash consisted of me pre-pooing, washing with Oyin Handmade's Honey Wash and  Honey Hemp Conditioner.  I tell you that stuff is magnificent.... at least for my hair.   I decided to make Sunday my Wash Day this week because I had really let my hair go over the Holiday and with Hats and all... needed to be redone.   I never get the itchy or dry scalp that others speak of but that is probably because I keep my hair and scalp well moisturized with aloe vera gel, coconut oil and olive & soybean oil.

My Wonderful Sister bought me a Steamer for Christmas and I cant wait to use it.  There was no way I was going to use it that late at night.  So the next time that I am doing my hair , I will definitely try it.  I opted for 2 strand twist again  which is my signature style these days.  I love them because I can do so many things with them.  They are soft and detangled and the 2 strands actually prevent  SSK's for me because of my diligence with Moisture/Sealing .  I know that I am not being super creative with my styles right now but that is fine because I am always slapping a hat on my head to stay warm and protect my tresses.

My hair texture seems like it is getting more and more like the Type 3 womens hair but at the higher alphabet range..  I have people always touching my twists and saying how they love my hair and how soft and coily it is.  I have noticed the texture change as well and I dont know if it is my age (Only 43) or the Medicines that I take that is changing my texture.  My hair is kind of getting Baby ish!  Very Soft but I still can rock a mean Twist out with lots of Definition. Not sure what it is but hey its mine and I will work it and with it, no matter what.   I also still have lots of shrinkage.  I try to keep my hair from being damp throughout the night or going out in the cold with damp hair and open pores due to my resent illness.

I am looking forward to the short week we have this week.  I look forward to 2011... Have you made up your mind as to your New Years Resolutions.  Family, Health, Hair, and Financial.  Let me know what you have planned for 2011.

Loving Your Natural Hair

Happy Monday,

I love my natural hair and all the fine strands that it consists of.   I love how easily detangled it is since I learned the proper way to detangle.  I love the curly/kinky/coilyness of my hair.  I don't know if my hair would have been the same texture if I had done this in my 20's or 30's but now it is what it is.  Would I love my natural texture if my Kitchen was 4C or my hairline had BDB's  around it.   I can't really say.  All I can speak on is what I have now since I have gone natural.  My hair texture is 3C/4A/4B  shoot, I don't know but it is extra soft and never too kinky.  I can get SSK's if I do not take my twists out correctly or if I do not keep those coily ends moisturized.

This weekend I wore my twists in various styles and with it cold outside my hats were in Effect!  I plan on continuing my protective styling with twists and updo's in the hopes of retaining length and seeing my hairs full potential.  I know I have to keep my ends protected and moisturized and that is key.  Even though they are not tucked, they are always kept very moist and I have no problem moistening and smoothing the ends to reduce SSK's.  I would like to achieve a full 3 inches of growth by April.... We will see how that goes.

Here are a couple pics of my hair today.  Since wearing the turtleneck, I decided to twist and tuck the back of my hair and hold in place with 2 black flower clips.   Also I pinned the front to one side...that's my sexy look...LOL.   Hope you enjoy the blog and the pics.

Got some Wine Colored Highlights Yesterday

 
Well I have been debating on highlights ( a Wine Color) for some time now and finally went and had them done.   Although I only let them lighten about 2 levels...they came out pretty good.

Now of course, I put my two strand twists (medium) back in and will be splitting these into minis probably tonight.  Thank you Temy at Essentials in Laurel Maryland (www.essentialsbeautyspa.com) she is a great stylist and hair care beautician.  Always great products and very gentle with the strands.  I got a great deep conditioning too.   The color took well except for my ends that had Black from my box coloring I had done earlier this year.  Just wanted a little spice to my Protective styling. 

Well I finally took down the Mini twists! Wash Day!

Happy Monday,

I finally took down the mini twists and it really was not bad at all.   I did not have a lot of breakage and minimal shedding.  I had not washed my Hair since Nov. 12th (sick/hospitalized) so I finally got a chance to do it.  Here is what I did:

1. Saturated my hair for a prepoo with Suave Professionals Humectant Conditioner.
2. Finger combed and tried to remove shed hair.
3 Put my hair in 6 big twists.  Detangling and removing more shed hair with my Shower Comb and Denman and adding Olive Oil and retwisting each section.
4. Placed a plastic cap on my head and took a 3 hour nap. (LOL)

I did not use a shampoo bar but instead added water and cleaned my scalp and rinsed the hair.

5. I used my Oyins Honey Hemp Conditioner on each section and rinsed.
6.  I then applied a quarter size dollop of Honey Hemp for a leave in and put my Mico Head Wrap on my hair.

My hair was undeniably soft and fluffy.  I took the head wrap off and my hair was just damp.  I then took each section and split it into at least 5 twist after adding some Oyin Burnt Sugar Pomade and Whipped pudding .  I was too tired to do my mini twists so I decide to do a twist out for Monday.   I took my blow dryer on warm and just let the warm air dry my twists even more ( To eliminate any still being wet in the Morning).  Put my satin bonnet on and went to bed.

Well this morning when I took my Satin bonnet off, some of those twists were facing the wrong direction so I quickly twisted them with some of the straighter ones to try to train them while I completed getting myself ready for work.   I then removed the twists for a very nice twist out.  I twisted and pinned the front and sides back and just had the twist out in the back.   This style will hold me for a day, while I decide whether to get Highlights on Tuesday before I do my mini-twists again.

I was very thrilled with the fact that I had no problem taking out my mini twists and no apparent breakage.  I did have about 3 single strand knots that I craftfully detangled or cut out.  Overall, I think my mini twists are here to stay.   I will see if I have a pic to post of the twist out.

MEAC Bowling All Weekend! Go Coppin State!

Happy Monday,

Its been a long weekend sitting in the bowling alley watching NCAA Bowling.   My daughter is a member of Coppin State University's bowling team.  The bowled from 11-6 on Sat and Sunday 730-12:30.  I tell you I was tired of sitting and watching.   The girls do make it interesting but as an Avid Bowler myself.... that is too much watching.

I did nothing with my hair this weekend.   Same style pinned to one side in the front.  I will be doing a Wash Day on Friday after work.   I want to give my pores time to close and be able to take my time.  I will finally try to use the BNB Conditioning Mask this week.   I haven't decided how I am going to where my hair just yet... but with the dress my Sister picked up from Macy's.... a updo with cinnamon buns and a nice band... would be cute.


I finally bowled 4 games yesterday to see how my breathing and stamina is since my pneumonia.   Went pretty well but I was sweating like a pig.   I am going to have to watch..opening my pores and going out in this Cold 30 something weather.   My hair was pretty soaked too.   I will have to take my loc soc so that when I am finished I can put that on before I put my hat on.   Double protection.

Well that is all for right now.   Just preparing my daughter for finals so that she can have her semester break and I can stop all this running.   She will be staying on campus next semester...... This should be interesting and it will also be better for me.... Rest wise.

Feeling Oh So Sexy and Good with my Mini Twist Do!

Well I am here sitting at my desk feeling absolutely luscious in my mini twists.   I have been getting many compliments and people think I went to the salon to have them done.  I am still wearing the Super-Sexy pinned to one side (at least in the front).  A friend asked me if I had a strawset and I said nope.... water spritz/aloe/EVCO and let it curl/coil.  She seemed to have this look like "Yeah Right".  The Battles of a Natural...LOL.


I am absolutely loving the Oyin Whipped Pudding (www.oyinhandmade.com) and the Franks Juice.  I ordered some samples/travel sizes of the burnt sugar pomade and the honey wash when they had their Cyber Monday sale.  The Oyin Whipped Pudding has all the great stuff for Hair and skin (Head to Toe).  It doesn't take much to get that fantastic moisture in your skin with a heavenly glow.    Normally I could fry chicken on my face by Mid-day but not with this.  My face stays moisturized and not oily at all.   Of course, I use this in conjunction with my Chagrin Valley Rhassoul Clay & Yogurt soap which is the BOMB-DIGGITY.   The Whipped pudding has Cocoa Butter & Aloe and let me tell you... it clears any blemishes and dark spots.  I also used a bit on the ends of my two-strand twists.  So light and fluffy and Effective.   Please Order yourself a Sample/Travel Pack...... just to try.  Really I wish they made an even Bigger Container of the Whipped Pudding.   Whoa, just typing about it made me whip out my Gregs Juice and give my hair a bit of a Spritz.



HAVE I SAID LATELY,.     I LOVE MY NATURAL HAIR  !!!!!!!!!!

Loving My Mini Twists! Its Gonna be some Wash Day on Dec 11th.

Hiya!

Still working with my two strand twist and I have been giving myself steam in the shower and lightly sealing.   When I split my two strand twists into Mini twists, I used some Shea Moisture Deep Treatment mask to do them.   I think I may have a bit of product buildup so I have not added any more product to the hair.  It is wearing off through the steam and a light vitamin E to seal.


I am getting lots of compliments on my minis and I am finding them easy to maintain, moisturize and manipulate.  I just found out that our Holiday party is Semi Formal and i am still thinking of doing a full Wash Day and mini twists in an updo with a nice flower .... now to work on the Attire....LOL.  I have a few things but they may be a bit big... Imagine that...   Definitely on the line of Black because I loves me some Black.

Another Natural here at work... Pres. Daughter asked me to twist her hair because she thought I got mine done professionallly and this girl has some hair on her head.   She said she wouldnt want them as small as mine but she has sooooo much hair.  I may have to refer her to a stylist that I know.   Hey if she pay some cash, I might start my supplemental income with her...LOL.

Here are additional photos of my styling for the last two days.   Remember Shrinkage but I love my curls/coils of my Twists.

Well I will be going back to work tomorrow!

Good Afternoon,

I just finished separating my twists into two to make mini twists and I love them.  I will be able to create lots of styles the next two weeks with the smaller twists and they are curly/coily with my AVG/EVCO/Shea concoction.  It has been since Friday Nov 12 since I have washed my hair but I am going to try to either just rinse or not wash these out until I have the big wash day on Dec. 11.  I have my company Holiday party that day.


I need to go out and get some hair accessories to complete my look and I am going to be a bit experimental with it.  Gonna get a few more loc socs because with winter and all they can be awesome to keep the warmth and blood circulating to stimulate the hair growing process.   Now let me say that I am not a long hair fanatic and really just want my hair shoulder length shrunken and full and healthy hair and body.  That still might be too much hair for me, but it will allow for alot of versatility .  I want my skin to be Chocolate and Flawless too.


Going to my Nephews going away Air Force dinner today and preparing myself for a full day of work tomorrow.  I need to watch my food and calorie intake because I am on these steriods for my lungs and they make me "Hungry".  I want to lose another 10 pounds and not gain 10 which is easy on Prednisone.  Luckily I am on the Taper and have only 9 more days to go.  I will be bringing my lunch , drinking lots of tea and water this week.

My hair is on protective style lock down and I am starting to feel a lot better.  I Love, Love, Love my family for all their Love and Support and my wonderful friends for taking care of me and cursing me out and threatening me to take better care.   I will be more diligent and humble in the days to come.  Love YA!

OYIN HANDMADE HAUL.....20% OFF

Good Evening and Many Blessings,

Today I went to ExittheApple and bought my Oyin Handmade products.   Included in this haul were the following:  16 oz Honey Hemp Condish, 2 Large Whipped Puddings, 1 Med Whipped Shea,  Franks Juice and got them all for $63 tax included. 

Now I had the sample pack that had Honey Hemp, whipped Pudding, shine and Define and Gregs Juice.  I bought that for about $10 and I think its an awesome sample pack.  The Shine and Define was nice with the whipped pudding for twisting but was really light and I have seen a little better product for my hair.   The whipped pudding is Awesome for hair and body.  I use it on my face after using my Rhassoul Clay Soap and it does not feel greasy but moisturized and gives a Natural glow.. Has Cocoa butter and Aloe which are great regenerators for skin.   I loved the Gregs Juice which is a refresher and decided to get the larger one and use the small one for carrying in my purse.   The Honey Hemp... although a humectant is so wonderful with detangling my fine curly hair and can be used to Deep Condition or as a leave in.  Its not super thick and has a shelf life of 3-6 months so I decided to just buy the 16 oz because since I have been sick, I am reducing the number of hair washing to maybe ever 2-3 weeks.  I dont use alot of products that buildup so this should not create any problems and the use of protective styling will only help as well with moisture and keeping my hair from the SSK and detangling sessions.  The Honey Hemp will be kept in the refrigerator along with my BNB Conditioning Mask that I have not used yet.  I think I will try both of these the next Hair Wash Day.

Its getting windy and chilly here in Maryland so I did find me a Loc Soc $6.99 (replica) at the Beauty Supply Store as well as picked up a few hats.  I am ready to work these and use the loc soc for keeping my twists tamed as I sleep as well as wearing it under my hats to protect my hair and keep my head nice and warm .  Now just need some more scarfs and gloves.  This Christmas, I hope someone buy me a nice Hat /Glove/Scarf Set.  I love those types of gifts.


I am anxious to work my protective styles that I have been reviewing on YT since I have had Cabin Fever between the hospital and at home.  I want to take care of my hair and show these folks that Natural Hair Care and Maintenance is Rewarding and Absolutely Liberating, Cute and Sexy.  Not just for people with "Good Hair" although I've been told that is what I have...LMBO.


Have a great Saturday and a Blessed Sunday.

Great Turkey Day with my Family!

Hi Everyone,
Had an awesome day with my family here at my house since I am recovering from pneumonia.  My Mom cooked most things and my dear friend deep fried a cajun creole turkey and I made pineapple upside down cake and crab dip.  So we were stuffed before 4pm and everyone packed containers and I still have plenty of food for the rest of the weekend.   I love my Family and there's nothing more than the LORD Himself.


I am sitting here online debating to purchase a few natural hair products that would like to try but know goodness well I really don't need right now.  I may stop by the Oyin store and take advantage of the sale on Sat and pick up the Greg's Juice (I really was impressed with that), I also love the honey hemp conditioner but it has honey, a humectant which some say should only be used in the summer months.   I still haven't gotten all the nuances of Natural down just yet and I will be all Natural 2 yrs... Somewhere mid-January2011.

Maybe I will do some online shopping or just try to hold out a bit longer unless I see the deal of a lifetime.   I am sure there will be plenty between now and Xmas eve.


Continue to enjoy your holiday weekend.....don't overeat and don't over spend.

Back After a 7 Day Hospital Stay! Feeling Much Better!

Hi Everyone,
Just got out of the hospital Monday after a bit of double pneumonia.  So I am taking it easy and trying to get my breathing back to 100%.  I am just glad I was discharged before Turkey Day.

I did go to Rhode Island on the 12th which was not a good idea.  Really should have gone to the emergency room there but No Way.  I wanted the comfort of my family so I waited until Monday to get to the doctors.   Can we say, HMO, Pityful.   I get x-rays done on Monday and I have to call to get the results and they are bad.   She didnt even say go to the hospital.  I knew that sitting home may kill me and so I went to the emergency where they admitted me immediately.   Well 7 days later and I am feeling much better and glad to be home.


Thank Goodness I had my hair in 2 strand twists so that I was not looking too crazy in the hospital.   Had my Mom bring me a satin bonnet too with all those cotton sheets and pillowcases.   Sick as a dog but still thinking of my hair.   I am going to have to put away the WNG's until the spring and go with Twist Outs , Buns and lots of 2 Strand creations.  Protective styling for my hair and lungs...LMBO.

I made a bit of concoction today, Aloe Vera Gel , Shea Butter, Coconut Oil, Rosemary Oil and a bit of Castor oil.   I will be using this to twist and maintain moisture.   You know how I love my AVG/Coconut oil Combo... I put the Shea to make it more buttery.  Gonna put an order for a small food processor to make it easier to make some of these.


Well everyone have a great Thanksgiving tomorrow.  Sit back with family , Relax and Enjoy!

Wash N Go

Good Morning,

Its been pretty crisp outside (This am 36 degrees), so am on a 3 day old Wash N Go.   This is one of the first times that I felt I could make this style last more than 2 days.  I have worn it with a side part, middle part as well as coils stretched standing up in the front.  With the newly trimmed ends, my hair is responding beautifully to everything I do.

My hair is still noticeably softer since the steam treatment and I am still going to do the BNB Conditioning Mask over this coming weekend.

Other than that, just working, bowling and loving my family and life.  Lets see how long I can keep this WNG.

My hair is definitely Thinning - Good/Bad.... Not Sure!

Hi Natural Community,

Well last week I decided to go to a salon and get a good professional trim, deep conditioning steam treatment and a finger style.

My hair felt absolutely wonderful after the trim and treatment however the product used to finger style "Design Essentials Curling Creme" made my hair a bit tacky feeling which I really didn't like.   So of course, I put my coconut oil on my hair and it became a curly afro.... Looked great, but although softer I could still feel the product on my hair.  To me the finger styling was less defined than my normal wash and go, but I would say that my wash and go has less volume because of the clumping of my fine strands than the finger style.  I think I definitely liked the volume that the technique (kind of like shingling but just product on smaller sections) for when I am doing a curly fro but maybe I would have to try more leave in or a product that leaves less of a "build up" feel.

Well this morning I decided to do a WNG which I had not done in ages.  I got that product build up out of my hair with Ah nu Lux Shampoo and Conditioner and then I used my Oyin Honey Hemp as a leave in, a dime size amount of Aveda Curl Enhancer .... Micro toweled... then used my Aloe Vera Gel and Clap Applied and separated and sealed with the coconut oil.  My curlies look amazing!  That trim was wonderful and you know I had no detangling needed or anything.

I did notice that with the clumping came a bit more scalp exposure and even when my hair was blown out for the trim at the salon, I noticed a bit of thinning or easier scalp visually. 

I have decided to begin doing Castor oil massages to my scalp and hairline to promote growth.  Dubur Vatika Coconut oil with Amla is a good thickener too.   I will be going back to my protective styling also but twists since those I can do wonderfully and there are so many options with twists.  I am going to stay away from flat twist and just do loose two strands.   They are more versatile and less pulling on individual strands.


I am over 40 and I may be reaching the age of hormonal changes but we will have to see if that is it.  My hair may just be changing a bit.  The salon stylist said she did not see much breakage but that I need to make sure I get my trims more regularly.  I agree with that because my hair feels a ton better since the trim.


I was definitely glad that she said my moisture and elasticity was great in my hair.  Oh yeah, she used Nairobi products on my hair and that stuff made my hair feel like butter as well and the treatment was the Miss Jessie Rapid Recovery.   I may definitely have to look into getting a Steamer as well.... That thing is the bomb!

Shedding vs. Breakage

Hey Everybody,

I finally took those salon styled 2 strand flat twist updo down and let me tell you.   I had so much hair to put in the trash I was almost suicidal.  Still kind of unable to tell breakage from shedding but I really think it was more breakage than anything.

I really feel I need to go get a good trim and make sure my ends are on point.   I think a good Steam Deep Conditioner Treatment is needed as well.  To me of course my hair felt thinner and weaker.   My protective styling is suppose to help strengthen and retain length but this experience was not either. 

I want natural shed hair which in its curly state is hard for me to recognize from breakage..... Sorry Still a Rookie on that one.  I want to see continued healthy growth.  I may have to start doing a more delicate and precise detangling method.   It seems when I was wearing my wng's my hair was less tangled then when I put protective styles in.  I wonder why?  In my wng's I never use gel and hair is prone to frizz but not as many tangles or single strand knots as 2 strand twists.  Hmmmm.

I think I will begin to detangle my hair in sections.  Buy some more Trader Joe's Nourishing Spa and add my EVCO & EVOO.  I also made my own leave-in after cowashing this time.   Dont have precise measurements for this small batch but my hair is So Soft and it was a heck of a curl definer too.

Suave Prof. Almond Shea Conditioner
 4 drops of Rosemary oil
Vitamin E
Castor Oil
Olive Oil

I am going to measure the next small batch as well as make sure that I have all the ingredients that I want.   I think the Castor Oil is the main ingredient that is making it extra soft.  3 days later I only touch up the edges with castor oil/ vitamin e oil before bedtime and in the morning.

Gonna check out Essential Beauty Spa for a Steam Treatment this week.  I dont want anyone to protective style just give me hair care maintenance for now!  I am not very trusting and can't even think of the highlights I wanted at this point!

Hair is still looking GOOD!

Happy Monday,

My hair is still in my 2 strand flat twist with bun from my Salon visit and I am still getting great compliments.   I am kind of getting board with it and want to play in my hair...LOL.

I am still thinking about getting a bit of color highlights and a trim and deep conditioning on my next visit to a salon.  I want a bit of color to add a little bling to my hairstyles.   I just haven't totally decided on the color or who to get to do it.

I am holding on to this style at least until Friday but I cant wait to get my hands back in my hair.  I know that kind of goes against the protective styling/low manipulation but I figure, I will still do the protective style but it will be something that is flowing a little more.   Maybe some two strands pinned.


Well not much to report except a weekend that went to fast.   On Sunday I had RLS (Restless Leg Syndrome) and that was very irritating during the day and made for a very restless night.  I think I am going to have to do some exercising and stretching to combat that.   Also possibly getting a new cushion for my sitting chair may help to take the pressure off of some of the trigger points that are in my Booty that may be triggering the nerves to respond with annoying sensations.


Will post tomorrow about not spending money on eating out!   Spending too much money on fast food after looking at my bank statement.  Gotta make a challenge out of that and record my meals.   Might as well pair it with a bit of smaller meals and better food choices.   Until tomorrow...... Enjoy!

Well its Friday and All is Well

Well it is Friday, One week after my salon visit and my hair is holding up nicely.   I would be lying if I said that I didnt enjoy wrapping my hair at night , removing the scarf and spending less time getting ready for work or play.  If only dressing was as easy.  

I am missing styling my hair with my two strands but I know I will be back on in another week or so , so I will just enjoy the freedom for now.   My fine hair is trying to seep out of these flat twists a little but it makes it look even more natural and cute. 

I am looking forward to a good relaxing weekend and I know I need to start getting all the summer clothes and donations ready from my wardrobes.   That may help me get my attire together faster in the morning.  Time to Clean and Clear out what is not needed and assume a minimalist attitude.  Ive been thinking of my eating and spending habits as well and feel I am over indulging.   Thinking about starting a new challenge for myself  - A no eating out challenge except for Saturdays/Sundays.   I have been looking at my bank statement and all I see is Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner.... so many food places.   This has got to stop.   I bet I could lose a few pounds in the process.   Hmmm... may have to do this!!

Well have a great weekend and Be Safe and Be Happy!

Went to Natural Hair Salon --- Not Wowed!

Well I have been posting on NP but had not done a post on my own blog.   Well here is how the appointment went.

When I arrived Jennifer welcomed me and escorted me to the wash basin.  I discussed with her that I was thinking about some color but she said that she would have had to schedule it in her book in advance and that she had a birthday party to take her kids to after finishing my hair.

She proceeded to wet down my hair and wash and finger comb detangle.  There were a few tangles but not much since I had detangled my hair prior to twisting and removed into a twist out for my appt.   Well she began to state that her clients normally comb out their hair prior to the appt.  Well coming directly from work, that was not going to be possible and really, I just didnt "get it".

After washing she proceeded to condition my hair and detangle.  She asked if my head was itching... as she began to drag her nails across my scalp.  Okay... Im not big on that at all... I dont want any abrasions.  I didnt like her detangling technique although my hair is very easily detangled.   She started at mid range of the hair shaft and did not take proper care in holding the hair at the ends but actually pulling the comb away from the head.   She detangled in sections and Thank Goodness my hair is awesome wet with conditioner.   She then rinsed and took the towel and did not plopp but instead rubbed upwards and downwards.   I would have preferred plopping or just squeezing.

Well she had to remove clips from the client before me who had gotten two strands and it was about 3 inches long and beautifully colored and styled.   I then assumed the position in the chair and she began to mix her concoction of Carols Daughter Mimosa and Loc butter and shea.... Awesome as well as a Tui Leave in.  My hair felt like butter and smelled wonderful.  

Jennifer was very gentle with my hairline and very neat in her styling approach.   She asked me about my comfort in what she was doing and I was fine.  After about the 4th flat twist, I asked her about the ends of my hair and trimming.   She said my hair needed a trim and I said " Well why didnt you tell me and trim the ends".   She said that I would need to schedule that in my appointment.   Hmmm.... how long does a trim really take.... Of course I thought that was BS and started to feel like since she had a prior commitment that I was being a bit rushed.   Well she finished styling in less than 30 mins and it was scalpy but nice and neat.   I sat under a warm dryer for about 7 mins and was ready to hit the door.

The price of all this was $68, that was with the 15% discount.   I was not wowed, with the price or services.   But felt a feeling of adequacy.   Okay, I did not make another appointment before leaving and felt that really I had received minimal services that didnt require $80 on a good day.  I think I will possible stick to doing my own hair for now.  I got more compliments on my pinned to one side twists than I have on this style.   The stylist did say that my hair was in great condition with great elasticity.. but do I trust her when she detangles mid shaft?  Hmmm.   I know I take pretty good care of my hair and I use good products.   I think I will continue to do my own and continue to be creative in my age appropriate styling.   However, I do want some color.   Gonna have to think about where I wanna go for that.

In the meantime, I am slapping that rag on my hair and sporting this $80 do until I cant rock it any more.  I have to get at least 2 full weeks out of it or I will feel like I made a huge donation to someones grocery bill/cable/internet/phone (Triple/Quaduple Play).

Happy Monday - 6 month Protective Style Challenge is On !

Well I still have the tst's pinned over to one side style and still looking hot, hot, hot.  Some are asking why I am even interested in going to a professional stylist.   I appreciate the compliments but just want to have options with regards, to maybe more semi-formal affairs and age appropriate styles.   Not that I cant be creative with my own skills with my flat and tst's, but everyone loves to be pampered sometimes.

I have been playing around with style ideas for the next set of twists.   I have to see how I decide to do my hair this week, probably some up do that will last about 3 weeks without tangling.  Just got my eye brows arched and I am ready for my eye makeup, big hoop earrings and bring the swagga!

Hair Consultation -Stylist Followup

Well, Monday I went to the Natural Hair Salon for a hair consultation to see if this is a place I would like to get my hair done at least once a month or so.

The owner/operator was very professional however I thought she would have done more looking and feeling of my hair.   She sat across the room which I felt was a little unfriendly and talked about trimming every 6-8 weeks and deep conditioning.   Now I have no need to trim every 6-8 if my ends are fine but deep conditioning... I can dig that.  

I spoke of a few products that I had been using and she just didnt seem that knowledgeable about some.   Although you may not use those products, your clientele may want you to use their products and you should be able to educate them on those products if you think their not good for their hair.   I truly believe she is more a stylist than a true natural hair care provider.

I would love to have someone that talks more like a kimmaytube on moisture and protein balance and ph balance.   Someone who talks about my texture and what my hair needs and not just "Are you impartial to adding hair to your twist updos?"   I do want a stylist for those times that I may want to treat myself or have a function to go to.  Her lateness/cancellation policy was awesome and her hair color swatches and recommendations were good.

I guess I will go to her next Friday and see what she comes up with.  If not, I will be researching and trying again!

Also, last night I washed and twisted my hair and it is beautiful.   I have fallen in Love with the Oyin Handmade Honey Hemp.  I used the shine and define and whipped pudding to twist, after also using a bit of honey hemp conditioner as a leave-in.   Of course before tie down I put some aloe vera gel on it as well and coconut oil and Vitamin E this morning.   Looking Hot, Hot , Hot!

October 1, 2010 - March 30, 2011 - 6- Month Protective Style Challenge

Created a 6 month Protective Style challenge that will begin on Oct 1.   I am excited and cant wait to see how my hair responds and the wonderful and beautiful styles of those who join the challenge on NP.

Going to Happy Hour with my Bestie today who has BSL Gorgeous Locks.  Havent seen her in a bit so I cant wait to hang out a bit in Fells Point today.

Friendship is so important and understanding the difference between Friends and Associates is key to understanding self.

Looking forward to a great day and a great weekend.   Holding on to these twists and making sure I keep my hair wrapped at night but the freakin scarf keeps coming off my head at night.   Must be my silky beautiful natural hair!

Coconut Oil is the BOMBDIGGITY!

Coconut Oil is the bombdiggity.   I have been using it (Parachute 100% Coconut Oil) for the past month and let me tell you.....Wow.  I have been using it mainly as a prepoo/deep conditioner and in addition to my Aloe Vera gel (moisturizer).

I was looking on Naturally Curly today and there was an article about creating your regimen and two of my favs was on there.   Aloe Vera for Moisturizing and Coconut Oil for Sealant.   Coconut oil penetrates the hair strand and it makes your hair extra soft and  fluffy.   The two combined keeps my frizz at a minimum and is the perfect combo for my twists.   I also spritz water/peppermint to just moisten as well prior to using the aloe vera on each strand, then I use coconut oil and a little vitamin E to seal.   The vitamin E is good for the Thin edges (hairline) that I am nursing after my years of slapping that creamy crack and letting it sit on them.

I am really contemplating a 6 month protective style challenge.  After my natural hair consultation on Monday, I think I will begin with a good trim/dusting if necessary and then I will begin my protective styling.  Maybe with an appt with Jennifer to get my hair done by her.  I think she gives 15% off your first visit.

Larger two strand twists - Only took 1 hr.

Happy Tuesday,

Last night about 10:45pm I decided I wanted to twist my hair back up and it took only 1 hour.   Thank goodness for the great detangling job that I had done in the morning before putting my hair in a puff.

I scheduled a free natural hair consultation with Jennifer at Naturallymesalon in Baltimore (http://www.naturallymesalon.com/).  I am almost 2 yrs natural and I would like someone to give me information from a professional perspective on the overall health and condition of my hair.   My crown area is the shortest area and I would like to know how to grow my edges more and that shorter crown area.   What products will be best for my texture, including oils, butters, conditioners, protein balance.
My appt is next Monday so I will report back with all the details.   Then maybe I will also schedule an appt to get my hair done.

Check out my hair do for this week.  Already got a couple of compliments but also being 43 yrs old I want to get some styles that are age appropriate and will last.

Shedding or Breakage

Good Morning,

Last week I wore a twist out of the two strand twists that I kept in for about 10 days.   This morning I decided to wash and detangle my hair and boy did it shed.   I will have to inspect the hairs to see if it truly was shed or breakage.

I am thinking about going to a natural hair salon to get a true consultation.   I really want to make sure my hair is healthy and its growing at my personal growth rate.

This weekend I went to oyin handmade and bought a sample pack.   On Friday I bought Aveda's Be Curly curl enhancer and humectant promade as well.   I have bought these products but I am just not sure if I am using all these properly or whether I have everything -moisturizer and sealants.

I am not going to buy any new products and try to put my hair in cute protective styles after the consultation.   Now to figure out which place will be best to try.  I know it can be expensive but gotta spend some money at least to get the right information and then from there... we will see.

Once a month salon visits, shouldnt hurt the pockets too much.

Even in the Womens Restroom, We talk about Natural Hair!

Today while at work I met a lady name Karen who has a nice short cut but still uses perm to texturize.  Every time I see her we have conversation in the ladies room about Natural hair.   She says she would like to be a natural hair stylist but until she gets the nerve to go natural herself, she doesnt feel comfortable trying to be a natural hair stylist.   What do you think?

I know that when we go to a stylist we are always looking at how they keep their hair.  If they dont do theirs then they surely cant do mine.   They are a walking advertisement for their skill level.    Well my natural hair stylist is Loc'd so does that mean she cant do Loose Natural Hair.... I think Not!

I hope eventually Karen finds her way to the Natural side of hair styling/care.  Leave those straight , sprayed hard curls alone and let her natural hair do what it do!

I am still rocking my two strand twists... and each morning I spray them down with Water and rub Vitamin E and Aloe Vera Gel on them and let the ends curl.  I get alot of compliments and when I do my twist out..... Rocking!!!!!!

My Twists

Good Afternoon Everyone,

This past Saturday I did two strand twists with Flat twists in the front.   I have really been thinking about locing my hair and seeing the inspirations on Nappturality Forum has gotten me very motivated.   My Manfriend and my daughter likes the versatility of working with my natural curls and do not want me to loc.   I would like to try it and if later decide its not for me, then "take them down".  Jury is still out but for now i will rock my two strands for a while.

My goal is to get to shoulder length even with the shrinkage that my hair type has.  I want to experiment with updo's and shoulder length will give me enough hair to try a variety of styles.

This was my weekend regimen for two strand twist/flats :

Shampoo with Ayurveda Shampoo Bar
Deep Condition with ORS
Detangled  (Did not like the shedding)
Condition with None of your frizziness
Applied some Shida Natural Moisturizer
Two Strand Twisted with Coconut Oil/ Hair Butter (by a local entreprenuer, Balto. hair expo)


Every night I put 5 large twist to try to retain my length after applying some coconut oil, then put my satin bonnet/scarf on.

Tuesday - Wet hair with Water enough for the ends to Curl.  My hair of course showed signs of shrinkage about 2 1/2 inches work but that is okay.  

Usually my goal is 7 days of twists and 7 days of twist out.  Usually there is major shedding after low manipulation for that many days for me so I may just leave the twists in until I am ready to retwist.
I would like to try to keep it twisted or protective styled to get maximum retention of whatever growth pattern my hair has.

The main thing is to keep single strand knots out of my hair by keeping my hair moisturized and detangled.

Introduction to Me!

Hi Everyone,

My name is Yvette and I am from Maryland.  I have been natural since January 2009 and absolutely loving my natural hair.   I am still in the process of learning what my hair loves and needs to continue to grow and be its healthiest.   I did not do a typical big chop but did a small transition period following a major hair cut due to breakage.  I continued to slightly perm my hair until I realized that it was not necessary and basically put micro plaits in my hair for 3 months then removed and cut the remaining 1/2 inch of perm off. 

Since the final cut of perm, I have really appreciated the natural curl pattern and the ease of managing my hair.  The trial and error period for me is still not over.   I have found lots of products that I like but have not nailed down a true regimen.

Products and oils that work well with my 4a hair ( I guess that is the correct type)

CD Hair Milk                                                    Trader Joes Nourishing Spa

Vatika Oil                                                           Aloe Vera Gel

Coconut Oil                                                        Shida Naturals Moisturizer

Avocado Oil                                                       Garnier Frutise Sleek N Shine Leave-In Condish

HE Hello Hydration Condish                              Garnier Triple Nutrition Avocado, shea & Olive spray

HE Totally Twisted Condish                              Shea Butter Concoctions ( with Essential Oils)

HE None of Your Frizziness Condish                 Olive Oil

Chagrin Valley Ayurveda Herb Shampoo Bar

I have yet to try KCC but have tried Miss Jessie's Early in my journey but wanted to find products that were a little simple and easy to find and local convenience stores.   I did not want to get hooked on expensive online products and my hair seems to like a "Less is More" maintenance.