Blessed Tresses

Welcoming 2012

2011-12-30T22:05:00.001-06:00

Happy New Year!!! Have a wonderful and safe holiday...Be blessed in the new year my friends.

Merry Christmas!!!

2011-12-23T21:39:00.002-06:00

Hello friends...I just want to take this time to wish each one of you a very Merry Christmas. I pray that you will be blessed in every way and that you will remember to be a blessing to someone else. Have a wonderful Christmas and God bless!!!

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-22T16:12:00.000-06:00

Hello everyone~I just want to wish you all a "Happy Thanksgiving!!!" Be blessed in all that you do and don't forget to be a blessing to someone else!

New Chapter

2011-05-09T20:48:00.000-05:00

May 6, 2011, I started a new chapter in my life by graduating with my Master of Arts degree in Sociology. The guest speaker and honoree was former President William J. Clinton (Bill Clinton). I had a mixture of feelings going on...happiness that I reached my goal and a bit of sadness and fear at the thought of starting something new. However, I have hope that my career will take off and that I will be able to use all of the tools I have learned to help make a big difference in our society. I just want to use this time to thank God, my family and the wonderful support system that I've had during this process. I want to leave everyone with these thoughts...you can do anything that you set your mind to and you have to believe in yourself even if no one else does. If you have goals and dreams~GO FOR IT!!!! Have a blessed evening my friends!

Update: To relax or not?

2011-04-28T19:12:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone...I decided to wait it out and relax my hair next week. Thought I'd post some pics though from this weeks wash. I've decided that I am not trimming when I relax because I want to see how much growth I attain in another 6 month stretch. I will definitely update next week if/when I relax (my six month stretch officially ends on the 8th)...

Blessings

2011-04-18T11:30:00.000-05:00

I just wanted to take this time to thank God for blessing me to see another year. It is times like this that make one reflect on the beauty of life. We should always be thankful for everything...no matter how small or big it may seem. Updates will be coming soon...until then, be blessed my friends!!!

It's been a while...

2011-03-24T18:48:00.001-05:00

Hello friends...I know it's been a while since I've blogged. I've been so busy and feel like I have no time for much but taking care of school responsibilities, but I'm almost finished thank God. I know that I would've never made it this far without his help and guidance.

As far as my hair-I'm currently 4 months into a 6 month stretch and I feel that my hair is getting thicker and growing. This time I have had some serious new growth, but I'm able to manage it so I will continue to the end of the stretch. I've been using my oil mix of olive oil, castor oil, jojoba oil, vitamin e oil, alma oil, lavendar oil, and rosemary oil. After many times of trying various oils together I feel this is the best combination for me...so I'll keep it up. I haven't trimmed since my last trim which was sometime in November and don't plan to this stretch or after unless absolutely necessary. My ends are definitely feeling thicker to me and I'm loving my hair!!! I have always had somewhat thin hair, but it's feels so much thicker.

That's all for now, but I will be back in a few to update on my complete stretch...please keep me in your prayers and I will do the same for you. Thank you for staying with me through my busy life and checking in to see how things are going. Have a blessed evening!!!

New Year and Goals

2011-01-01T14:33:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year everyone! I pray that this new year finds you wonderfully blessed and enjoying a beautiful day.

Updates:

In this new year I plan to continue with my 6 month stretches and perhaps to consider stretching for a while longer than that if possible. I definitely will not be trimming unless absolutely necessary. I will continue moisturizing and sealing with my oil mix of jbco, olive oil, peppermint oil, rosemary oil, jojoba oil, and vitamin e oil, and alma oil. These are oils that my hair seems to respond to and I love them together. I usually moisturize with my Hawaiian silky or my Hydratherma Naturals Leave-in or growth lotion. I am continuing to pay attention to my hair and to see what works for it and what doesn't...the journey has been fun so far and it's amazing to see how my hair responds and thrives. I would like to reach my MBL goal by summer, but we'll see since I believe health of hair comes before length.

I'm set to graduate in May 2011 with my masters in Sociology and I am so ready! This has been a long time coming and a dream that is in the process of being fulfilled. Can't wait to walk across that floor and receive my diploma!!!

I wish you all continued blessings in this new year. Stay strong and encouraged~don't give up on your dreams!!! Have a blessed day!!!

Happy Holidays

2010-11-28T18:49:00.000-06:00

Hello friends...I just wanted to take the time to wish you all a very happy and blessed holiday season. Remember to be thankful in whatever state you are in because sometimes we need to be reminded that we take things for granted. Blessings come in so many ways and I am looking forward to many more. I am so thankful for a loving family, my faith, my friends, my health, and all things great and small!!! Have a blessed evening!

Updates

2010-11-08T22:01:00.002-06:00

Here are the hair update photos from when I relaxed my hair after a 7 month stretch. My hair always grows longer on one side than the other so I had it trimmed as even as possible. I lost about an inch or so of growth, but I feel better starting off with fresh cut ends. My hair is getter thicker thanks to applying castor oil and other essential oils mixed to my scalp and doing scalp massages at least 2 times a week. I can definitely tell the difference, especially when my hair is air dried and not flat ironed. I'm starting another 6 month stretch and this time I'm not going to trim in between or after unless absolutely necessary. These pics were taken about 2 months before I relaxed and my hair has actually grown back even. So, the journey continues and I'll try to update again at the end of my 6 month stretch.

Before Trim and After Trim

21 Days til Thanksgiving Exercise Challenge

2010-11-07T18:23:00.001-06:00

Hello friends! I've decided it's time to take my health and fitness to another level. I pay close attention to my hair's health and always say I'm going to exercise only to start a program and never stick with it. I hate going to the gym because I don't really feel comfortable exercising in front of other people.

So, I've had these exercise dvd's sitting around for what seems like forever and rarely use them. On Facebook I'm a member of the group Leslie Sansone Walk Away the Pounds. I have some of her videos and really enjoy doing them when I think about pulling them out. I noticed on Fb and her blog she was having a 21 days til Thanksgiving Challenge to exercise. I decided to take the plunge and try it. It's really a good workout and depending on the dvd's you buy you can focus on various parts of the body as well as walking to better health. So far, I have made it through week 1 and really feel good about my progress. I'm hoping to see the results that I desire and then I plan to put myself on a challenge like this one for the days before Christmas and New Years as a way to motivate myself to exercise daily.

I have found that when I exercise I feel so much better physically and I sleep better at night. If anyone is interested here's the link to Leslie Sansone's Walk At Home blog: http://www.walkathome.com/

Disclaimer: I was not asked by Leslie Sansone to promote her challenge. I'm just sharing this information with anyone who might be interested in getting back in the swing of things and exercising. Til next time~Be blessed my friends!

Reflections

2010-10-09T19:11:00.001-05:00

Hello friends!!! I've been spending lots of time looking over other blogs and being inspired. I am so thankful for the many new friends that I have met through numerous hair boards and blogs. There is so much valuable and inspirational information out there and it's good to sometimes get a new perspective on life in general.

I was thinking today how much I have learned so far. Hair is my thing and makeup has become a new love for me because I love to try new things. Everyday is full of inspiration and the possibilities are endless if we just open our minds!

As I reflect on my life, I see that I have and am growing as a person. Next May I will have reached another one of my goals and that is to have my Masters in Sociology. It is has been a tedious and tiring journey, but well worth it! What makes a journey whether it's a personal goal focused on education, hair, health, etc. worth it? Enjoying what you're doing and what the outcome will be. That's where I am right now...thankful for my personal journey's and where they are taking me. Above all else, I realize without the help of the Lord I cannot do anything.

So, my friends today I encourage you all to take a look at your personal journey's and enjoy the paths you have chosen to take. If you're on a path that you do not enjoy then it's never too late to redirect and go for what will make you happy! Until next time...have a blessed day!!!

Btw...I will be ending what was supposed to be a 6 month stretch and it turned into a 7 month stretch this weekend. I will try to remember to post some pics this time. Take care my friends :-).

So Thankful

2010-09-25T21:30:00.000-05:00

I would like to thank you Elle once again for making me aware of the Sunshine Award. I have found so many new and interesting blogs to read by way of other bloggers who have been nominated as well as myself. This was a great way to find new blogs and meet new bloggers. There are some very good blogs out there full of great information. Thanks again!!!

DAILY INSPIRATION

2010-09-22T13:19:00.000-05:00

Psalm 63:1-2

1 O God, You are my God;
Early will I seek You;
My soul thirsts for You;
My flesh longs for You
In a dry and thirsty land
Where there is no water.

2 So I have looked for You in the sanctuary,
To see Your power and Your glory.

Have a wonderful day my friends!

Sunshine Award

2010-09-21T18:45:00.004-05:00

Elle from EDK.Dolce nominated me for an award - The Sunshine Award.

Thanks Elle for nominating me for the Sunshine Award. I really appreciate that you stopped by to read my blog and did this. I am nominating these ten bloggers!

http://www.ericarunning.com/

http://www.diaryofahairobsession.com/

http://www.fromshorttolong.com/

http://sweetkissmessage.blogspot.com/

http://haircarediaries.blogspot.com/

http://hairlyobsessed.blogspot.com/

http://www.mypurebeauty.net/

http://www.robynsnestblog.com/

http://www.relaxedlongway2grow.com/

http://thefancyface.blogspot.com/

Here is what you have to do:

Save the photo and post to your blog

Pass the award to 10 more bloggers like you and following you from the news and comment

Link the name of their blog and the url

Write and link the individual that gave you the award!

Have a blessed day ladies!!!

DAILY INSPIRATION

2010-09-17T13:03:00.000-05:00

21 This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope.
22 It is of the LORD's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not.
23 They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.
24 The LORD is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him.
25 The LORD is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him.
26 It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the LORD.

Lamentations 3:21-26

REGIMEN

2010-09-17T12:15:00.000-05:00

Wash 1x a week
DC 1x a week
Moisturize and Seal w/various oils
Airdry
Flat Iron (occassionally~always use heat protectant)

Stretching/Relaxer Schedule:
Last Relaxer: March 7th
Next Relaxer: September 7th (tentative)

6 month stretches

2010-09-13T22:50:00.000-05:00

Hello friends! I'm so sorry to be so long between posts, but I'm in my last classes for my masters in Sociology. I spend lots of time reading and doing homework.

I just wanted to do another quick update: It has been exactly 6 months and 2 days since my last relaxer. I was scheduled to relax last Saturday, but didn't have the time. I plan to do so this weekend. I had my hair trimmed about 2 weeks ago because during my six month stretch one side of my hair grew a little bit longer than the other side. My hair has always grown like this. So I will try to remember to post a pic from my trim (before and after) as well as pics from when I relax my hair this time.

Until then, you all take care and be blessed. Thanks for stopping by from time to time to check things out here. This is something that is fun for me as well as a way for me to keep track of my hair journey and progress. HHJ my friends:-)

Update

2010-07-21T14:12:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone, I know it's been a while but I've been very busy with classes. Just to update...I am 4 months into another 6 month stretch. I haven't flat ironed since May and have been letting my hair air dry instead of blow drying as usual. I'm not really have any problems with my new growth because I'm keeping it moisturized by using my Hydratherma Naturals leave in and Hawaiian Silky 14 in 1. I have been sealing with Hydratherma Naturals Growth Oil or an oil mix of olive oil, vitamin E oil and castor oil. I'll probably do a length check to track any growth I've had at the end of my 6 months. Til next time...have a blessed day!

Review of Hair-A-Mania (Bossay) Hair and Body Butter

2010-01-14T18:37:00.000-06:00

As I was reading Hair-A-Mania blog I noticed that Mz. Bossay had samples of hair and body butter available to anyone who wanted to try her products out. I requested a sample of the Mad 4 Mango Hair and Body Butter, at no cost to me. I received the body butter last week.

First, let me say that I absolutely loved the scent of her mango body and hair butter. It's a nice subtle fragrance that isn't overpowering at all. I have noticed that sometimes when I purchase body butters from the store they often have a very overpowering scent. I used my body butter for an entire week and love it. My skin is so soft and smooth. Sometimes I notice in the winter that my lotion often needs something extra added to it to give my skin the moisture that it needs. I didn't need to mix anything else or use anything else with the body butter. There were two tests that I used to see if the body butter worked as well as I needed it too. One, I used it on my feet which always seem to be extra dry in the winter living in Missouri. This winter has really been bad, so I needed the extra moisture and softness for my skin. I loved it~after my pedicure my feet were so soft and continued to be so after every use. The second test was my nephew who has eczema and his skin is very dry. It is often very difficult to find a lotion or body butter that will actually work on his skin. Well, the mango hair and body butter did provide the necessary moisture that he needs and even smoothed out rough patches on his skin. Overall, I love this hair and body butter. Mz. Bossay you have a great product here and I wish you lots of success. Have a blessed day!!!

Disclaimer: I was not paid by anyone to review this product. It was sent to me as a free sample to use.

Happy Holidays

2009-12-21T20:37:00.001-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-25T14:18:00.000-06:00

Hello everyone...I just want to take this time to wish you all a "Happy Thanksgiving!!!" Remember to give thanks in all things, every situation, good times and bad...we always have something to be thankful for. God bless you all in this holiday season!

A New Love...

2009-10-29T15:00:00.001-05:00

I have found a wonderful new conditioner that really works well for moisturizing my hair. From the first time I tried it (maybe a month ago) I fell in love...Hawaiian Silky Miracle Worker 14 in 1!!!

This product claims to: Moisturize, Strengthen, Defines Curls, Softens Hair, Adds Shine, Enhances Growth, For Healthy Braids, Heals Scalp, Relieves Chemical Burns, Non-Greasy, No Drip, Prevents Itching & Dandruff, Increases Body, Thermal Protection.

Hawaiian Silky Miracle Worker 14 in 1: is the very best product for protecting and maintaining your hairstyle. This versatile product can be used as a curl activator and moisturzer on natural curls and perm waved hair and a leave-in conditioner for relaxed, natural, and braided hair. This non-greasy, non-staining formula helps soften and detangle hair while soothing the scalp and healing abrasions leaving a vibrant sheen.

I say: This product is great. I love the way it makes my hair soft and moisturizes well. I use it every night on my ends before sealing with the oil of my choice (i.e. JBCO, Hot Six, or HN Growth Oil). I just completed a 31 week stretch about 8 weeks ago and started using this product on my ends after getting a trim. My ends are very healthy and this product helps keep them that way without being too much. All it takes is a very little, but it works wonders on the ends moisturizing (my opinion). To see a great way to use this product for styling check out: http://glorycrown.blogspot.com/ for the video "Styling with Hawaiian Silky."

Have a blessed day!!!

Update

2009-10-03T19:17:00.000-05:00

Hello friends, I know it's been a while and I apologize. I have been so busy with grad school and I know if you've been there you will totally understand.

To update a little: I ended my stretch at 32 weeks and it was very successful. I really think I could've went longer, but decided to go ahead and relax since I had some free time to do so. All during my stretch I had no trouble with handling my new growth or anything. I decided to up my air drying instead of using the blow dryer weekly. So, I ended up blow drying maybe twice a month instead of weekly as normal. I air dried using the scarf method (thanks Sunshyne) or by putting my hair in a braid or bun to dry. I decided not to flat iron unless I had church or somewhere else to go that I wanted my hair straight.

Overall, in order to maintain my new growth I made sure to deep condition weekly for at least 45 minutes or longer with a cap on. I made sure that I moisturized and sealed either every day or every other day to make sure my ends were taken care of. Right now my main focus is making sure that my ends are healthy and that I maintain any growth that I have. My hair did grow and once again was at MBL, but I trimmed since it had been 6 months w/out one. So, I am about a 1/2 inch from where I was, but I'm cool with that because I have decided to focus on health before growth. I believe they go hand in hand and I will see the amount of growth I want as well. I am also using Jamaican Black Castor Oil to aid in thickness and growth as well. I think I will try to stretch again for at least 4 months if not 6 months~my main goal is to cut down the amount of relaxers I get each year.

That's all for now...take care my friends and have a blessed evening!

What's Up?

2009-06-26T09:44:00.000-05:00

Hello friends, I decided to sort of give an update of what's going on since I haven't posted anything lately about my journey: Btw, I reached my goal of MBL but had to trim so this time I think I won't trim unless absolutely necessary.

1. It's been 20 weeks since my last relaxer and I am trying something new by stretching until I start graduate school in August. I wanna see how far I can go without any problems to determine how I can cut down on the number of relaxers I get per year or possibly go natural without the BC. It's looking good so far and I am actually able to manage the new growth without any problems~no breakage or anything so that's a plus. I will continue with my staple regimen as well and keep you posted. Please feel free to share any stretching tips you may have.

2. Lately I've been getting back into the makeup scene by watching lots of videos and purchasing some different products to try out. One of the products on my must have list is the new 88 warm palette (coastal scents)~I love the colors and I really want to try this out. Now I just need to step out the box and actually try the things I have purchased. I don't know why it's so hard because I used to get up everyday and faithfully put my makeup on. Have you got some makeup tips? Please share I would love to know "-"

3. I graduated on May 9th with my BS in Sociology and have been sort of relaxing for the summer and looking for a job. So far I haven't found anything, but am searching none the less. I am confident that there is something out there for me in my field so I am keeping a positive attitude about this.

That's all for now...please take care and be blessed!

For All The Ladies~Single and Married

2009-05-30T14:49:00.001-05:00

Just a little "Food for Thought" that a good friend shared with me...it applies to all women whether you're married or single.

Subject: Saved & Single (Author Unknown)

What makes you think that just because I am an
Attractive woman of Godly intelligence
That I'm incomplete without a mate?
Who told you that without a man
Something's missing
From my life? And if so, What would that be?

LOVE

I love myself
And more importantly
I love the Lord
He told me that when I delight in Him,
He will give me the desires of my heart

SECURITY

I have everything I need according to His riches in glory.

INTIMACY

Now, how's a man going to get to know me
When he doesn't even know who he is in the Lord
See my Father told me I'm above a ruby's worth
And a gem does not seek; it is sought.

I'm single and that's all right with me
See, it's not that I oppose relationships
It's that I detest co-dependency
As a woman, I know it is not my role
To chase after any man
Esther 2:14 says that I am to wait on my king and when

He's delighted in me; He will call me by my name.

My Lord does not intend for me to be needy or desperate.
I am to be Cherished, Relished, Valued, and Honored,
It's not my job to convince him
Or Convict him of that,
My mate will already know it
And consistently show it
And he will stay on his knees daily
Not just to adore me
But to praise the Lord for
The virtuous woman he has found
So, when you see me by myself,
I'm not alone
I know what I have coming to me.

I'm single and saved, and right now that's all I need to be!

Makeup Brushes

2009-05-30T14:08:00.000-05:00

Hi ladies...I know that there are many brushes used for makeup; some more popular than others. I was considering placing an order from www.eyeslipsface.com since the brushes start at $1 then you pay shipping. Well, I was on the makeup aisle in my local Dollar Store and saw that they are now carrying some of the Elf brushes for $1. At the time they had 5 of them and I figured this is a cheaper alternative to trying out brushes since I wouldn't have to pay the shipping or wait for an order. At least if I don't like them I didn't pay a whole lot for them. Anyway, I am not sure if they are going to carry more than just the 5 brushes I saw, but it's worth a try. I just wanted to share and see if any of you ladies have seen the Elf brushes in your local Dollar Store or your opinion of these brushes if you have used them. Blessings til next time...

Did You Know?

2009-05-06T12:44:00.000-05:00

Hey ladies, I was walking through Wal-Mart hair section of course and I noticed that they are now carrying Chi silk infusion. I have never used this product so I am not sure if it's the entire line or not, but there seemed to be quite a few choices. Anyway, for all of you who do use this product it is now available at Wally World. As for the price (around $23.00 I think), I would say it's close to what the price was when I saw these products at Trade Secrets. Maybe some of you who purchase and use Chi silk infusion can let me know if the price is right if you see it at your local Wal-Mart. Have a blessed day until next time...

Information on Essential Oils

2009-03-12T16:10:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone! I just wanted to share some great books that were given to me by a family member who uses aromatherapy oils for health and personal enjoyment. (The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy by Valerie Ann Worwood and Aromatherapy for Everyone by P.J. Pierson and Mary Shipley). Here are two great books recommended as a place to start your journey. Each oil listed is followed by information on therapeutic and essential oil applications. Check them out and let me know what you think. Both books are available on Amazon. Enjoy til next time...

Hair Update

2009-02-08T16:06:00.000-06:00

Hey friends...yesterday ended an 18 week stretch for me. I really think I could've stretched longer, but decided to go ahead and relax. I had a lot of new growth which was manageable until about a week ago, but this is probably my fault because I was so busy I really didn't feel like spraying my new growth with Hydratherma Naturals follicle invigorator (makes the new growth lay down and so soft). I had planned to relax at 12 weeks, but with classes and life in general I just kept doing my weekly washes and deep conditioning. Time got a way from me and before I knew it...18 weeks was here. I have been considering trying to go natural, but I don't know yet~this stretch kind of gave me an idea what I would be dealing with. It wasn't so bad, so we'll see.

In the department of new products: I tried Paul Mitchell Skinny Serum and I really like it. It has a wonderful scent and the shine is just beautiful. Now do I like this better than the Hask Pure Shine Serum? I can't really say that I like one any better than the other, but I do like the smell of both of them better than Biosilk. Now, I gotta try Chi and see how it compares. I also got a new flat iron and I love it....Corioliss SXE Hair Straighten Iron. My hair is silky and shiny after using this iron. I will try to add some pics soon...until next time~Many blessings in your hair journey!!!

The President of the United States of America

2009-01-20T21:30:00.000-06:00

"At Last President Barak Obama and Mrs. Obama"

Today history was made and I am happy to be a part of it. I am so overwhelmed that words really cannot do my feelings justice. The message for me and my household is clear; we can do anything and everything~no limits to what we can achieve.

Let us keep the first family and his cabinet in our prayers. God bless!!!

My Little BSS

2009-01-07T22:13:00.000-06:00

LaQT, (and anyone else) this is especially for you, I guess you sort of tagged me lol...I finally got my list together of all of the products that I have at this time. Now, I do not use all of these and have already given away quite a few items. I am so embarrassed because most of this was purchased in the height of my pjism~way before I even ran across any hair boards. Here we go...

Oils/Gels:
--Evoo
--Castor oil
--Extra Virgin Coconut oil
--Glycerin
--Vitamin E oil
--Dabur Alma oil (after my 2nd use I love this)
--Hot Six oil

Heat Protectants/Gels:
--Hask Pure Shine Serum (love)
--Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum (love)
--Let's Jam Heat Styles Straightening Cream
--Aloe Vera Gel
--Smooth 'N Shine Polishing Conditioning Gel (don't use)
--Motions Shine Enhancing Pomade (don't use)
--Double Protein Dark Styling Gel (don't use)

Hydratherma Naturals Moisture Boosting Collection: (Staples)
--Amino Clarifying Shampoo
--Moisture Boosting Shampoo
--Moisture Boosting DC Treatment
--Amino Plus Protein DC Treatment
--Follicle Invigorator
--Moisture/Protein Balance Leave-in Conditioner
--Daily Moisturizing Growth Lotion
--Hair Growth Oil

Moisturizers/Conditioners/Other Products:
--BB Castor & Aloe Oil Moisturizing Hair Lotion
--BB Foam Moisturizing Wrapping Lotion
--Elasta QP Mango Butter Moisturizer
--Luster's Pink Glosser
--Motions Foaming Wrap Lotion
--V05 Moisture Milks Passion Fruit Smoothie Shampoo (horrible)
--V05 Moisture Milks Passion Fruit Smoothie Conditioner (good for prepoo)
--Tresemme' Vitamin E Moisture Rich Conditioner (good for prepoo)
--Pantene Clarifying Shampoo
--Dark 'N Lovely Protein Intensive Conditioner
--Motions Neutralizing Shampoo
--Right On Curl Activator Moisturizer
--Palmer's Hair Success Mink Oil Sheen w/Vitamin E
--Beautiful Collections Darkest Brown Semi-Permanent Color
--Pantene Relaxed & Natural Oil Moisturizer
--Pantene Relaxed & Natural Conditioner
--Pantene Relaxed & Natural Conditioning Wrap & Set Lotion
--Black & Sassy Finishing Wrap Sheen (gives nice shine)
--Black & Sassy Thicker & Richer Sassy Shine
--ORS Replenishing Pak (love)
--Smooth 'N Shine Therapy Silk Fusion Critical Repair Reconstructor (haven't used yet)
--Matrix Essentials Sleek Look Miracle Reconstructor (free gift~haven't used)

I think that's everything lol!!! I'm tired I gotta go to bed now.

New Year Wishes!!!

2008-12-31T19:43:00.001-06:00

NubianGraphics.com

Random~Beautiful Hair

2008-12-27T14:22:00.000-06:00

I found this photo of LisaRaye in Essence. Her hair is gorgeous with these curls and chestnut color. I would love to have this color and look. Here is something to aspire to.

The Benefits of Glycerin

2008-12-27T14:16:00.001-06:00

Glycerin: For more than 225 years, glycerin has been one of the most versatile household ingredients, with almost 1,500 known end uses including many applications as an ingredient or processing aid in cosmetics, toiletries, personal care, food and drugs.

Glycerin is a natural humectant which means it attracts moisture to skin and hair. If you take a look you may see some forms of glycerin (glycerol) in your daily products such as lotion and hair products. I have decided to add glycerin to all of my body butters, lotions and conditioners to promote more moisture. I purchased mine at Wal-Mart in the pharmacy section by the Witch Hazel, Alcohol and Peroxide for about $2 and some change. The website below is definitely filled with lots of information about essential oils and their uses. Check it out and see what you come up with for simple home remedies yourself.

For some tips on the uses of glycerin and other natural products in home remedies visit http://www.simplehomeremedies.com/home/. Here are some links to check to get you started: beauty bites, product info and seasonal hints. I have been researching Vitamin E and noticed that some claim it removes scars and others that it does not. I guess it depends on the person because I have been using the Vitamin E stick pictured above from Wal-Mart vitamin section and it is definitely lightening dark marks and some freckles that I have on the side of my nose. Several people have noticed that they are disappearing lol. So, it holds true that what may not work for one may work for another. I am going to keep using it and add Vitamin E to my oil cleansing mix for my face and see how that works out. Until next time…

Happy Holidays!!!!

2008-12-26T10:36:00.000-06:00

Hello everyone~I hope that you all had a blessed Christmas like I did. I am very thankful for a wonderful time with my family. I would like to take this time to wish you all a Happy New Year filled with many blessings and happiness. I wish you all the best in the new year. God bless you all.

Decisions, Decisions

2008-12-10T18:30:00.000-06:00

I am in a bit of a dilemma about the direction I want this blog to take. At first, this started as a place to document my hair progress and random things I have going on in my hair journey. Now, I see so many wonderful blogs and I have some ideas of things that I would like to do. I am going to take the next few weeks to do some research on the direction I want to take and possibly researching and reviewing products for various companies. I pray that I can come to a decision about this that I will be happy with and that fulfills my dreams.

Dilemma #2 is...I was scheduled to relax my hair 3 days ago and am trying to decide if I want to stretch for 2 more weeks. I am not experiencing any breakage and my new growth is actually manageable. Thanks for Hydratherma Naturals products we are not fighting each other for control. My hair is growing and as soon as I get the extra time I plan to post some hair updates that show comparison shots and my progress. I was taking part in a deep conditioning and no trim challenge from October 1-December 1 and it was quite beneficial to my hair. My hair is very moisturized and I really love deep conditioning so will definitely be continuing that. I think I will go for another challenge on my own of three months with the same requirements~deep conditioning and no trimming after I relax my hair. I think that's it for random stuff and I will try in the next few weeks to get these issues resolved and do some updates.

I wish everyone a Blessed and Happy Holiday Season!!!

"I Think My Hair is Spoiled Like Me!"

2008-11-13T22:21:00.000-06:00

I decided to do something different this wash and try another shampoo sort of as an experiment to see how my hair would respond. I usually use the Vo5 Strawberry Moisture Milk Conditioner for my prepoos. I thought I would detour from my beloved Hydratherma Naturals Moisture Boosting Shampoo and try something new. Why did I even go there? This shampoo made my hair feel like it wasn't even clean. I washed it and my head started itching the next day as if I hadn't even washed for the week. I followed the rest of my regimen except for the poo, so now I know for sure that I better just stick with my regular product. I have heard nothing but good things about the conditioners, but took a chance on the Vo5 poo. I don't think I will go there again! I couldn't wait to wash my hair again and get back to that actually clean feeling. Thank God for HN products!!! My hair has been spoiled by using this great line for the last 2 months and refuses anything else.

Moral of this lesson: "if it ain't broke, don't fix it!"

Next Relaxer

2008-10-26T16:22:00.000-05:00

My last relaxer was on October 4, 2008, which ended a 10 weeks stretch. I have decided that I am going to stick with stretching 10-12 weeks.

Oil Cleansing Method (OCM)

2008-10-23T23:15:00.000-05:00

I have been trying the OCM of cleaning my face once a week for about a month. I mix 50% olive oil and 50% castor oil in a bottle. I pour the oil mix in my hands and rub together to warm the oils before rubbing on my face. I turn the hot water on and wet my wash cloth, then sit the cloth on my face and do a steam cleaning of the skin. Rinse the cloth out and wipe my face clean of any oil left. It is very important not to use the same wash cloth for your next cleansing because it may still have oil and dirt on it. My skin feels so soft and there is no left over oil. I apply witch hazel on as a toner and a light moisturizer.

Yes, my first thought was that putting oil on my naturally oily skin would break me out~well I was very wrong. Not only has this method of cleansing helped clear up the extra oils throughout the day, but my skin is brighter and the few blemishes that I had are actually clearing up. I would've never believed this could happen if I hadn't tried it myself. I will continue to use this method at least once a week.

2008-10-18T20:26:00.001-05:00

Current Regimen

2008-10-18T17:23:00.001-05:00

As of 8/26/08

Weekly:
Prepoo: (overnight or 20 minutes under dryer)
Tresemme Moisture Rich Conditioner
Vo5 Passion Fruit Smoothie Moisture Milks
EVOO
Castor oil
Honey
Coconut oil

HYDRATHERMA NATURALS LINE:
*Shampoo w/Hydratherma Naturals Herbal/Amino Clarifying once a month if needed [1st lather]
*Moisture Boosting Shampoo [2nd lather]
*Deep condition w/Moisture Boosting DC or Amino Plus Protein DC [alternate every other week]
*Sit under dryer for 10-20 minutes
*Apply Follicle Invigorator
*Moisture/Protein Balance Leave in conditioner
*Daily Moisturizing Growth Lotion seal with Growth oil
*Hask Pure Shine Polishing Serum (staple)
*Rollerset, Saran Wrap, pin curl or air dry [flat iron special occasions w/heat protectant] Ponytails, Braidouts, Buns

Daily: Moisturize, scalp massages and seal ends [2x's daily for temple area]
Night: Moisturize and seal ends, wrap in satin or silk scarf

Relax every 10-12 weeks:
*July 24, 08
*Oct. 5, 08

No Trim til after 12/1 [DC/NT Challenge]
*Use other products from time to time*

MY GOALS:
1) To achieve healthy hair and growth to MBL or WL.
2) Protect my ends by moisturizing/sealing, reduce shedding and strengthen my hair.
3) Start stretching and monitor my NG for any breakage, etc.
4) Limit heat usage by air drying instead.
5) Find staple products that are best for my hair.

Hydratherma Naturals Moisture Boosting Collection Review

2008-10-18T00:19:00.000-05:00

September 27, 2008 at 7:30pm

I started using the Hydratherma Naturals Moisture Boosting Collection a month ago. I am going to do my best to give a review of the products in the package that I purchased. (sorry so long)

Herbal/Amino Clarifying Shampoo: I wasn't sure how I would feel about this shampoo because I am not a big fan of clarifying poos and don't use them too often. After using the first time I did notice that my hair didn't feel loaded down with buildup from all the products I had been using. I have decided to use it once a month or as needed, not every week for my 1st lather because I have cut down on weekly product usage.

Moisture Boosting Shampoo: This shampoo has seaweed which stimulates, algae that strengthens strands and kelp that conditions. I really liked this poo because it detangled and made my hair feel very soft and moisturized. I have noticed less breakage and it provided great slip for me.

Moisture Boosting DC Treatment: This is one of my favs in the entire line. I love this conditioner because it makes my hair so soft and moisturized. It is really great for the DC/NT challenge. I usually sit under the dryer for at least 20 minutes with a cap on. My hair doesn't feel as dry as it was before I started using this product and it is definitely a staple for me. It is to be alternated every other week with the Amino Plus protein DC, which I haven't used yet.

Follicle Invigorator and Moisture Protein Balance Leave-In Conditioner: (Favs) The follicle invigorator is used to stimulate circulation to the scalp to promote growth. I really like the fact that I can use it daily and it doesn't weigh my hair down, but leaves my new growth soft and manageable. I do have quite a bit of new growth and this definitely helps. The leave-in is light and gives my hair the right balance. It also makes my hair feel soft and silky without it feeling weighed down. Great for rollersets and pin curls.

Daily Moisturizing Growth Lotion and Growth Oil: (Favs) I think these two are perfect together for moisturizing and sealing the ends. A little goes a long way and my hair doesn't have that heavy feel, but is soft, shiny,moisturzied and my new growth has taken on the waviness of my natural texture. Great for rollersets and pin curls.

IMHO: This is great line for relaxed or natural hair, of course keeping in mind everybody's hair is different. The product has given me the moisture as well as added softness, manageability and shine that I have been missing. It has a great smell too~Vanilla cake. HTH and HHG!!!

My First Rollerset and Presentable Style from Pin Curl Set

2008-10-18T00:15:00.000-05:00

August 24, 2008 at 6:30pm

Hello Ladies...it's been a while since I have blogged about anything hair related. I was reminded by my new friend, you know who you are lol, so here is goes. It has been three months since I joined Healthy Textures and I am really enjoying myself. I mean I can't get enough of my favorite subject~HAIR, HAIR, HAIR, and more HAIR. This is dream come true to have found somewhere that I can talk about hair and not get on anyone's nerves (well I guess not) but if I do then I guess you have chosen the wrong website to hang out on.

I have tried a few new styling techniques and some have been successful and some were less than presentable. My favorites so far are definitely roller setting and pin curling. Doing a good roller set took me about 45 minutes, but I managed to get it done and keep the rollers in my head. I decided that I really liked the results and decided to try this more often after I tweak a few things that I did this time. Now when I was in cosmetology school I could never ever do a pin curl to save my life and only thought they could be done on wet hair. So, this of course was a hard technique for me to master, but thank God I found HT and somebody who knew about pin curling dry hair. After my first attempt i wasn't sure if I would try it again, but I did and am very happy with the results. Here is a pic of my style after pin curling my hair last night. I wore it to church like this and got so many compliments. I am in the process of replacing the products in my regimen with the Hydratherma Naturals line and will keep my other products to use as I see fit. I would like to thank all of my new friends (family) at HT for always being an encouragement and helping me out when I needed it. HHG everyone!!!

Relaxer after 14 week stretch

2008-10-18T00:09:00.000-05:00

July 24, 2008 at 10:43pm

Today I ended what was a long stretch for me of 14 weeks. I couldn't take it any longer. I am used to relaxing my new growth every 6-8 weeks so this took some getting used to, but I managed by trying braidouts and other styles. I don't really notice any major growth, but this is only my second month on HT so I am not really worried about that. I know that my hair feels much healthier and that's good so I am happy about that. I didn't really do anything spectacular because I don't really want to stray to far from my normal routine of relaxing my hair. This is something that has always worked for me so I don't want to take a chance on messing it up. What I did do differently though is I implemented a protein treatment and DC during my relaxer routine. Believe it or not, I never did this before but I was very happy with the results. My hair feels very soft and full of body. It was too late when I got finished to style it and take a pic so I just took one before I wrapped it up for bed. Overall, I am happy and will probably stretch to just 12 weeks. I have found some new staple steps to try during my relaxer routine.

2nd Prepoo with Moisture Mix

2008-10-18T00:07:00.000-05:00

June 16, 08

Ok, I decided to try Sophia's moisture mix (big shout out!!!!). It was wonderful and I love it. I have decided to use this mix as a staple for my prepoos and for moisture. I used Tresemme Moisture Rich Conditioner, EVOO, Castor oil, and honey. Warmed in the microwave as suggested and mixed in a bowl. As I told Sophia, my nephew thought I was a little crazy and was very concerned that my hair would be sticky. It was not sticky in any way. I decided to apply the mix to my hair like I do when I relax it (I am approx. 11 weeks post relaxer) and made sure that I really got the ends good, put my plastic cap on for 45 minutes, rinsed out and washed with CON. My hair was so soft when I rinsed it. I conditioned my hair with Tresemme again and put my cap back on for another 15 minutes. After I rinsed this out, I applied my Motions Nourish Leave-in Conditioner and sealed my ends with castor oil. I let my hair air dry about 85%, but it was still wet the next morning so I sort of backslid and used the dryer for a few minutes. My hair was still very soft and manageable. I applied Let's Jam Heat Styles Straightening Creme and flat ironed because I was going to church. Overall, this was a wonderful experience and I would recommend if you haven't tried Sophia's moisture mix, please do. My hair still feels very soft, silky and looks shiny. As soon as I get my camera fixed I will post pics. I will definitely be doing this again so eventually you will get to see the end results.

Preparing Regimen

2008-10-18T00:04:00.000-05:00

May 31, 2008

After trying my first pre-poo and falling in love with it (LOL) I am still in search of the right regimen for me. So I am going to spend some more time investigating and trying some new techniques. I know this can take time, so I guess I am being a little impatient. That's how I am when I really am enjoying something and can't wait to get the desired results. It's an addiction for sure...help me somebody please. I guess you can't help someone who refuses to reform and give up an addiction :o)