Randomosity and Divadom

2012 Relay For Life of Freedom Area, MD | Relay For Life

2012-01-31T18:25:00.000-05:00

2012 Relay For Life of Freedom Area, MD | Relay For Life

Life Update

2011-09-13T15:41:00.000-04:00

So, as you know I have been out of the loop for a minute. Mainly because life decided that I needed to be extremely busy. I was finding out that I was so out of touch with everything, including my personal life, I needed to pull myself away from the blog. Now that I have some type of breathing room, I just wanted to give my followers some type of update.

1. I no longer have a stressed out work life. There might be those peaks, but nothing compared to earlier this year.

2. D.I.T. is currently attending a catholic school, and after a week she's writing her name. Not bad for a 3 year old, but I'm quite sure there will be someone out there to throw some shade on her accomplishments. She's also telling me (yes me her Mommy) the importance of prayer, and how we should do it often. *raised eyebrow and smiling* This will definitely make my MIL happy! lol

3. Yup, after 4 years he's still with me...*shrug* we celebrated our 4th anniversary family style. Sat around ate dinner, talked about school while watching "The Fantastic Mister Fox." What can I say we're a quirky trio.

4. Nothing new and exciting about my hair...no really nothing. :( I'm not bored with it, but I just never have the time to actually braid it up in styles and whatnot. By the time I get home (if I'm lucky) it's time to get dinner going. Funds are low since I'm now budgeting tuition, so me going to a professional to trim, deep condition and style my hair. I do a quick dusting every now and then, and trust me that's getting out of hand. I will say the D.I.T.'s hair is growing! I'm doing everything I'm supposed to do to my hair on hers. lol Of course since I didn't have a camera on hand, nobody could see the progress. Her hair (in twists on stretched hair) went from just below her chin/above her shoulders (her hair grows in layers like her Mommy) to now above her shoulders/to her shoulder blades. Even Mr. T. said "woooooow, no wonder you go into panic mode when somebody else does her hair." LOL If anyone in southern PG County/DC/or Northern Charles County know of any reasonable stylists that KNOW HOW TO HANDLE natural hair; please leave their information in the comments section.

5. I'm at the point where I am tired of renting. Not sure if I'm ready to put myself out there in regards of looking for something out here on the market, but if I'm hearing about folks living in better parts of the county paying less...yeeeah your girl is trying to upgrade.

6. I haven't even thought about going back to grad school. Why you ask? TIME! I have to get her ready for bed before 9, and then even then I'm dragging my feet. So, I can just picture me sitting in front of my laptop eyes bloodshot because I'm dead ass tired trying read 3 articles with 30+ pages to turn into a lively discussion. That's just for one class, and that's me also having to make sure that the discussion is supported with different ideas...yeah that wasn't going to happen. lol Maybe when she gets older (or we move closer to my job in a cheaper/better neighborhood lol) then yeah I can try to get it together. Right now I just can't do it.

7. Looks at calendar...ya' girl is going to be 30 in 3 months and 15 days! My question is MIA or Vegas? I'm looking for sun, fun, alcohol and lots of dancing. I have a lot to celebrate this year, and I definitely don't want to do it in the cold of DC. Leave me a comment for where you think I should go.

Welp that's a brief summary of what's going on in my life. I wish it was most exciting than what I just wrote, but it is what it is. :-P

Stay fab folks,
Jaz

Carnival Baby: Indulgence Mas 2011

2011-05-13T14:31:00.000-04:00

Carnival Baby: Indulgence Mas 2011: "The Indulgence Mas Band has officially announced their theme AND started registration as of yesterday ($65 early bird registration til Sa..."
DC Carnival.....please excuse me if I slack slack slack slack...yes indeed. I was really getting scared that it wasn't going to happen, just read this in the same post:

It seems as though despite getting the go ahead for this year next year's
DC Carnival may also be on shaky ground and NOT as a result of financial
issues.
Rumor has it that the new D.C. Mayor does not see the point of
keeping the festival as in his opinion that it is something that only the
Caribbean Community takes pleasure in and not the wider D.C. Community. Doesn't
sound very plausible to me, as far as I can see the city gets huge spikes in
revenue to restaurants, clubs, vendors, hotels etc during this
week, so why
get rid of it? Something to look into perhaps...

Man if Vincent "Dracula" Gray doesn't shut the front door, and allow us to
have our fun. I bet he wouldn't say some stuff like that about Adam's Morgan
Day. *steups*
I've been meaning to post about this since I never really post that much about my pre-DC Carnival preperation. This year I was going to bring the DIT with me, but since there aren't any kiddie sections in this band it's just gonna be Mommy (and maybe Mr. T...maybe lol). Plus there was a chance that we weren't going to have a carnival at all. I'm also trying to get on board with my jobs Caribbean Week Committee. Even though I'm not a 1st, 2nd or shoot 3rd generation West Indian I still value the culture. I usually throw some of my friends off when I show with my flag, and they're like "hold up I thought you were Panamanian?!?!" lol Maybe I'll throw them off by carrying a flag from the Netherlands.

Look what I saw today

2011-05-05T09:33:00.000-04:00

I don't shop here (back in the day before I got too comfortable yes lol), but I usually check out the clothes at Express to get an idea of what's in style. Lo and behold I spotted this fabulousness.

Image courtesy of http://www.express.com/for-her/index.sec

Just had to share that...sorry for my abscence, but I've mainly been posting on my fb fan page. I even have some recent pictures (I'm so serious about purchasing a new camera since I tried to vlog my henna and that was hot a$$ mess lol). I also put Suave Coconut conditioner back in rotation since I was looking for a good leave-in. So, far so good. I know I've been asked in public what have I been doing to make my hair curly, and I just tell them I've been co-washing and adding a little butter. Then they get mad at me when they think I'm leaving out my magic product. LOL On the FB page, I posted a pic of the DIT and myself. Check it out! In the pic I have a twist out, which I quickly got rid of in two days because I missed my shrinkage (I really <3 my shrinkage). I promise to at least come back on here once a month (hey that's a start), but please check out the fb page. I also posted some of my friends' pages for their businesses, but that doesn't mean that I am not looking to spotlight entrepreneurs on the blog. If you're trying to build up your clientele please do not hesitate to post a comment under the Mrs. JAHT is looking to feature you, and we can set up an interview that way.

A Grl Can Mac: Sustainable Hair Care: Lola's Green Hair

2011-04-08T10:45:00.000-04:00

A Grl Can Mac: Sustainable Hair Care: Lola's Green Hair: "I love to see our people creating businesses and services that uplift and enhance our community. I'm totally impressed with what with ..." Now you already know I have to share this little gem!! I already contacted someone about purchasing the Shea Moisture Curl Enchancing Smoothie. I hope they don't charge an arm & a leg for s&h because I'll just use my raincheck from Wal-green's (since everyone in Charles and PG Counties bought EVERYTHING last week lol).

I so wish I was in T & T this past week

2011-03-13T11:48:00.000-04:00

Many of you don't know, but I am a carnival junkie. I like the whole vibes on different cultures meshing together, and having a time. Some people are like go to Rio, and I'm like why??? lol Anyways I was on the lookout for the new band, Yuma, and to see if they lived up to their hype. I was a little disappointed to hear that some masqueraders didn't have a good time on Carnival Tuesday, due to poor construction of the costumes and long waits for crossing the stage. Overall though I heard that everything was still worth the money spent. Shoot look at them crossing the stage! I swear I need to get ready for next year, and I might even make an appearance on the Parkway for Labor Day 2K11.

(I actually like how Leo and Pisces looked on the road...shocked that I actually liked the Capricorn costume, even though I hated it at the band launch)
these 3vlogs are courtesy of http://www.youtube.com/user/zanzutube
to see more you might want to also check out http://www.youtube.com/user/jesseawilliams

Get in on the 15% deal at Curl Mart

2011-03-09T09:38:00.000-05:00

Not saying that I'm becoming a product junkie, but it doesn't hurt to get some type of a discount on a product that you're interested in trying out. You get to pick out products by price, hair type (a plus for me because I'm not trying to purchase something that will cause my hair to laugh at it), and of course a variety.
Use coupon code SHOP15 at the checkout! Now let me get back to getting some work done! lol

So is anyone going to the Baltimore Natural Hair Expo?

2011-03-02T10:58:00.001-05:00

I honestly haven't been up to Bmore since my girls graduated (shout out to Shellz, Shannon, Kiianah and my N-Sistas who walked that year I know there were a lot of you so I'll keep it short lol). I really want to go, and haven't been to the last two after hearing so many rave reviews. I have no problems with taking the drive up there with the little one (and maybe even Mr. T.), but I like going to these outings with fellow associates/freinds. So, is anyone going? You get to meet me and all of my randomness/divaness. :-)
ETA: Here's a link for the class schedule, and it looks like I might be up there on that Sunday for the 2pm class on Hair Loss & Scalp Disorders- Trichology 101. http://www.baltimorenaturalhaircareexpo.com/2011show/2011-Classes.html

So nice I had to review them twice...Koils by Nature (KON)

2011-03-02T10:32:00.000-05:00

Last year around I would say around April I was surfing around FB looking at fellow naturals hair favorite brands. I came across KON's fan page, and I was like let me see what they're about. I loved the ingredients for the owner/CEO/extremely friendly Pam Jenkins' products I decided to look around for something to purchase. I'm leery about ordering products by word of mouth because honestly I just didn't have a good experience with them. I saw that Ms. Jenkins was having a giveaway for her Nourishing Body Butter in a new Watermelon scent. First thing that popped into my mind was "that's an interesting fragrance, but I want that butter!" I was the first to respond, and bam I won my first giveaway. It was the 8 oz size, and it had the smell of watermelon jolly ranchers (<*insert homer drool emoticon*>). The texture was nice, melted easily and made my hair oh so soft. I was like okay cool, but let's test it on my daughter with the Jesus hair (like wool). Her hair will absord any type of hair butter, and then has the nerve to get stiff and uncooperative (believe me Mommy has tried so many things to get her hair to just get a dose of "act right"). I almost cried when I saw how soft my baby's hair was. I mean we didn't fight as usual, and I could use it with the Organics Shea Butter Detangling lotion.
We had a happy summer/early fall, and then it ended when I saw this wonderful butter go "bye bye." It was like my world had ended, and I definitely was BROKE. So, back to scrapping the sides of the container to get as much as possible to tame her edges (forget mine's since my hair was still in wash and go mode with some good ol' suave humectant/sweet almond oil doing the job). Once the New Year hit I was determined to get some type of steady cash flow coming my way, and even plotted on my poor little state refund check. So, once the bills were being paid, I saw a surplus (I have to keep my priorities in check folks no point in having fab hair without gas/electric). I hopped on that opportunity because another bill decided to wave a handkerchief my way to say "hellur!" I bought some Peppermint Herbal Smoothing Gel and a 4 oz size Lavender Nourshing Hair & Body Butter. Watching my email telling me the update on the status of my products left me with a giggity Quagmire feeling. Like the first thing I would do besides doing the normal when you first step in the house, I would go to my patio. Even my daughter was like "what is Mommy doing?" Mr. T. couldn't even answer that question because he would do the same. Like it was a SERIOUS MATTER! 3 days later (she's in my neighborhood so I get my packages asap), I saw that package and immediately went to sniffing as I cut on the shower. Don't judge me! None of her products have that medicinal herbal smell, but a clean fresh smell to them. The peppermint didn't smell like someone melted the red and white candies with some Halls, but like peppermint tea...fresh. I went to look in my package, and waaaah there's a sample for the Moisturizing Shealoe Leave-In Conditioner....this made me freeze because 1) I didn't expect it and 2) because any other time I had shealoe anything my hair would start soft end up brittle and dry. I put it on the side, and opened up my best friend (almost like Thurgood and his Abbazabba candy). Yummy! Like Lavender should always be this delicate, but not so perfume like that it takes away from the purpose of the purchase (I work in a stressful environment so I need something like that). I even received a compliment on the light smell, and how it still smelled like a lavender tea.
My hair L-O-V-Es the Leave-In, and the gel leaves my hair with the right amount of hold. The butter...c'mon son if I'm feenin' off of it this hard you already know I have no complaints. So much that I made another purchase, and boo-yah I even spoke with Pam when I question about my order. She was prompt, and even said next time I order her to let her know and we can meet up. Pam, I <3 you for the business woman you are! AJ's hair got it's dose of "act right," and if you see her hair in the picture from the D.I.T. turning 3 it actually stayed in place AND showed off her true length (my baby is a true 4b..I have another picture of her hair, but I can't edit it as of right now).

Look for a review on the Replenshing Oil and Replenishing Lavender & Eucalyptus Cleanser (of course I bought another body butter because AJ's hair is fat kid, and is greeeeeeeeeeedy!).

The Quirky D.I.T. is turning 3

2011-03-01T15:27:00.001-05:00

I'll admit it, I still cry when it's near her birthday. She's my one and only, and definitely had to put up a fight with my body to have her (while my body retaliated and told me the weight isn't budging lol). But my little D.I.T. is turning 3 tomorrow, and I don't know if I want to cry or ship her off to my aunt in Massachusetts. lol I swear that little girl is just a ball of energy. As I scrounge and scrimp to put together something for her to get into to burn off that energy, my parents are putting out the suggestions for alternative day care/learning centers aka their month of babysitting is up HELP! LOL

She says the darnest things I swear, and I honestly think she's my family's Beyonce (well because of the success rate and the sandy brown hair lol). She makes up songs, and performs her own little skits. One of her Godmothers even asked me "where's that British accent coming from?" I put my head down, and told her we act out too many scenes from Alice in Wonderland (Tim Burton's version of course). She also likes the Fantastic Mr. Fox, and the farmers have British accents including the one who flicks the cigarette at Petey (yes she acts out that part with me being Petey).

So, when it came down to planning her birthday party Mommy had to find a way to top off last year's. It was great, but I wanted something that all of us could do. First we had to come up with theme. So, we're like she loves ballet, dinosaurs and Yo Gabba Gabba (well all of Nick Jr. honestly). I wanted to have a Dora themed party because I wanted her to experience beating up a pinata like I did on my 3rd birthday (I mean it was a tradition to have one at your party in Houston lol). My mother told me to ask her what she wanted since it was her birthday, and so I asked her which one dinosaurs or ballerinas.
AJ: "Dinosaur ballerinas"
Me: No you have to pick one
AJ: Dinosaur ballerinas
Me: So you want Dinosaurs dressed as ballerinas?
AJ: Yes Mommy
These are the types of conversations I have with her, and the reason why I love being her Mommy! So, needless to she's having a Tinkerbell and her Fairy Friends cake, lol. Sorry that was just too much to plan, but she sealed the deal when she saw her birthday cake. As for the location, I hate Germ-E-Cheese, and Pump It Up was going to cost the same amount with minimal time stuck with last years location (just hope this year I'll be able to handle the jumper). This morning when I tried to wake her up, and told her she'll be 3 tomorrow with her eyes still closed she nodded her head and hugged me tighter while she went back to sleep. I followed suit with a single tear flowing from my eye, and got in another 10 minutes of Mommy & Me time.

HAPPY EARLY 3rd BIRTHDAY A. Jade T.!!!!

My true insipiration to make this world a better place for you, love you!

p.s. now you guys know her middle name lol

In response to Black Girl Singular's post

2011-03-01T14:50:00.000-05:00

It was a very deep one, and I had to share it with you all. I honestly don't know where I would begin with my 16 year old self so I'll just stretch out the year 1998 since it was the end of my junior year and close to the end of 1998. Well here it goes my mini-discussion with myself:

I would definitely tell myself to stop being so serious when it comes to being accepted by others particularly those of the opposite sex. I didn't really have my 1st love, but my 1st actual relationship experience. That I would definitely have to stress to myself because I was so distraught when he and I broke up. She won't believe me, but I would definitely have to stress to her that he was just the stepping stone on that path to her soon to be husband. She would really tell me I was mad because she already knew she wasn't getting married because she just didn't see the purpose. She saw it as a business contract, have the big ceremony, have a couple of kids, and split on mutual terms. I would have to let her know that she was crazy because marriage/parenthood is the best thing in the world. That I thank God for blessing me with this crazy little girl who will be a crazy teenager just like me then. That she would agree on because she always knew we would have a girl. lol There will be heatbreaks along the way, especially with the death of her 1st true love, but that would pave the way for her to find the similar characteristics in our husband. She would probably still laugh at me, and tell me that would never happen but seeing is believing.

I would also push myself to find a way to convince my parents that I needed to figure out what I wanted to do, and that I didn't need to pick out a major as soon as I sent in my application. That regardless of anything they weren't going to turn their backs on me, and that they're looking out for my best interest. They'll be her biggest cheerleaders, and just want to shelter her from those who appear to have her in their prayers/well wishes/etc.. They know you'll be a great woman, but they want to make sure that everyone else knows that about you. It will take for you to become a parent to know that, and that the cycle will continue.

To always listen to that little voice in my head that something is wrong, and to RUN! Believe me it will have her out of many situations that she didn't need to be in her very near future.

Never date a man you met in the club. So, what if he was great... blah blah blah. Keep him as a great phone/hanging out buddy because most of the time they're about the talk, and what the talk gets them in return (did that one time and checked that off of the list). Tell her yeah the relationship lasted a good 6 months, but it was a good 6 months of a so-so relationship that you even stepped out of character. That's where I should have listened to my voice.

To let myself know that no matter how much you reach out to certain people and call them your friends they will hurt you and will not be in your corner. No matter how much I stood up for people, and mutual friends were dropping like flies I was the ride or die friend. That person who you wanted to make people like, eventually stabbed you in the back, side and heart on several occassions. To surround myself with positive people with goals in their lives. Speaking of friends, always listen to your male friends. You'll learn a lot from men on how they treat the women they really care about just by the way he talks about her. This is valuable when it comes to relationship advice because that's also how you figured out the signs that "He Was Just That Into You."

To ALWAYS have love for yourself, and to be comfortable in your own skin. The only way people will know that you are a force to be reckoned with is to "show" it. Instead of telling people what they want to hear, tell them what you can offer and how to make things better.

Sheesh that felt like a ramble, but that actually felt kind of good. The ball is in your court, what would current you tell 16 year old you? (if you're under 30 it's cool since I am technically lol)

Aubrey Organic Island Naturals Replenishing Conditioner

2011-03-01T11:33:00.000-05:00

If there was a rating on reaction, mine's would be "OMG WHAT WAS TAKING ME SO LONG?!?!"
INGREDIENTS INCI: Aqua, cetyl alcohol, alcohol denat. (38b, lavender*), triticum vulgare (wheat) germ oil, hydrolyzed sweet almond protein, glycerin, aloe barbadensis (aloe) leaf juice*, pimenta acris (bay) leaf oil, pimenta dioica fruit extract, rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) leaf oil*, citrus grandis (grapefruit) seed extract, jojoba esters (jojoba butter), butyrospermum parkii (shea butter)*, cocos nucifera (coconut) fruit juice*, salvia officinalis (sage) oil*, foeniculum vulgare (fennel) fruit extract, humulus lupulus (hops) extract, melissa officinalis (balm mint) leaf extract, viscum album (mistletoe) fruit extract, chamomilla recutita (matricaria-German camomile) extract, tocopheryl acetate, hamamelis virginiana (witch hazel) water, ascorbic acid, achillea millefolium (yarrow) extract, equisetum hyemale (horsetail) extract, tussilago farfara (coltsfoot) leaf extract, glycine soja (soybean) oil, daucus carota sativa (carrot) root extract, beta carotene.

*Organic
(ingredients courtesy of Aubrey Organics website)
I love it! It's thick, creamy, smells heavenly (I guess because I'm partial to allspice), and quenches my hair's thirst. My hair is definitely a fatty, and the shea butter, jojoba butter and aloe vera must have been the answer to my hair's prayers. It's totally vegan, which isn't a big deal to me since I still love a nice ham and cheese sandwich (why lie lol), but for those who are looking for a product like that you won't be disappointed. I purchased my bottle this past Friday, and paid $11 for it and it was worth the price tag. You can definitely find it cheaper online, but if you're ever in Whole Foods look for it. Definitely a 5 star product!

So busy these days, but I must post!

2011-03-01T11:07:00.000-05:00

Greetings everyone!!! I have been so busy these past few weeks, and I feel I am neglecting you with my wittiness and whatnot (sorry had a brain fart trying to come up with something lol). Anyways this past weekend I posted on the fan page to look out for my post on my henna experience. I have been itching to do some type of hair color for the past year and some change, and decided that I was going to henna. Maybe it was because I just said I needed to go to the Whole Foods by my job (feels so good to finally say that!!!!), but I saw the Aubrey Organics Island Conditioner (post to follow this one...) and then right beside it HENNA. I have heard mixed reviews on henna, and said I want my hair to be a tad bit darker (my natural hair color is like an dark ashy auburn/brownblack mix it's weird). So, I was sitting back on Saturday evening trying to finalize the Fairy Princesses 3rd Birthday party, and received a text from one of the moms saying can't wait until tomorrow for the kids to hang out. I was like frack (yeah I used another word lol) because I was deep conditioning for like almost 18hrs, and still had to dye my hair. So, I boiled the water for the henna and opened the container. I was like ummm that's weird funk coming off of their. Maybe that'll calm down, while Ock shook his head in agreement. Ummm no....the situation for the smell did not change at all, like it had a funky grass that a goat took a leak on (sorry that's what it smelled like lol). I added some rosemary oil to it, and was like oh shhhh it made it worst! So, he's cracking up and the kid is like "why are you putting that in your hair." With my eyes squinched up breathing through my mouth, I told her Mommy wants to make her hair darker. Being the 2 y/o she is "so why are you using that?" (while scrunching up her face and proceeded to tell me I don't want to smell that and closed the door leaving me to suffer even more). lol Honestly I think it might be the brand I used, but whatever I don't know how some of you ladies can go to sleep with that stuff in your hair. lol Fast forward, since I hate the dryer I sat around with 2 bags on my head for 1 hour, and the smell faded or maybe the remaining smell of rosemary made it better. Now was the tricky part, rinsing all of it out without leaving in bits of henna like I have read in other reviews. I will suggest this to anyone doing henna, use the full force of your shower head/sink attachment because if you don't it will take forever to remove. I felt like Lady Macbeth trying to get that stuff out of my head.

I used almost half of a bottle of my Treseme Naturals conditoner (which if you're looking for a great co-wash you must try it!) trying to get rid of the grit (and the smell), which took about a good 20 minutes. I will say there was still a hint of a grassy smell in my hair, but I said let's put some more moisture back in here and I added the AO Island Natural Conditioner, showered, and rinsed (that stuff got on my skin lol). My hair felt strong, but not stiff which is what I going for as well. I used my Koils by Nature Nourishing Hair and Body Butter (another review just because Pam is so awesome!), and did my chunky twist. I usually use the Herbal Smoothing Peppermint gel, but I didn't feel like overwhelming my bed buddy aka AJ (Ock has been officially kicked out and placed on the couch courtesy of her lol). Look for a picture to come on the Facebook fan page when my mother actually scans it (we took a picture together at Mickey's Magic Show). Will I do henna again, umm yeah but after I read some other tricks on the removal process. My hair is darker (thank goodness!), and was a tad fuller no loosened curl pattern (thank goodness because my 'kitchen' would really look out of place with my other hair lol). One of these I need to take a picture of my hair wet/dry sans product so you can see what I'm talking about when I refer to my hair lol. It's like my mother's hair type (where that off shade of brown came from) decided to breakdance battle with my father's and some way they came up with my hair. Off to writing up my other reviews..it's tax time so I've been investing in some products. I know it's a hard job, but somebody has to do it. ;-) As my husband is probably shaking his head. lol
Until then keep on being random!

Forreal she was funny, but now she's doing too much

2011-02-19T05:44:00.000-05:00

*mucho profanity in these videos if it offends you pleeeeeeeeease DO NOT watch her vlogs*

Like I'm all about freedom of speech, and the first 7 mins is all about how people aren't a true type 4 in some of the blogs/vlogs. Is she serious? I've seen some people who are TRUE type 4 (4a/b/c), and believe me their hair has grown. I myself keep saying I'm a 3c/4a/patch of 4b, and I'm like she's like the people who is going around talking about "your hair isn't nappy enough." I thought that type of talk ended in like 2008 with that cNapp shiggity. Believe me I for one gets frustrated with my hair from time to time, but dang lol. Of course there were responses to her vlog, but I decided to use AfricanExport (mainly because she's been around for some time and pretty much put my thoughts into her response lol).

What are your thoughts?

SUPERBOWL TIME!!!

2011-02-06T14:19:00.000-05:00

So, it's Superbowl Sunday and the Trotters are officially over here cleaning up the apartment. It's not for us to have a party, since the initial plan was for us go over my folks house for a shin dig where we could spend the night if it go too late. No dice, so we're scrambling to see what we're going to do, and more than likely we're going to be in the house. Have no fear because we did that last year! (had a lot of fun with it too!) So, on our menu: pizza (duh), fried chicken (this is for tonight and Monday), and salad. There will be some type of adult beverage involved, but nothing extravagant like last year when I made Hand Grenades (there were a lot of army grenade jokes being made between hubs and I while little one was passed out).
I remember my senior year at Morgan I actually got a chance to go to a Superbowl party, that was hosted by Ravens fans, and I wore my Black and Gold (ummm Redskins are my NFC team, but Steelers are my AFC team fa'sho!). So, since they were playing I was talking mad trash because the Ravens didn't make it to big game, and I eventually got put in "time out." At that time my lil' sis wasn't a fan of any team because she never liked football so she cracked up at the fact it was me and one other Steelers fan (who happened to be from Bmore) were talking the most trash. I can't do that anymore because she's a die hard Ravens fan, and she already disowned me via twitter one time because I said "GO STEELERS!" (lol I mean I really didn't know she did that until I wrote her on FB and asked her why she was igging me on twitter). We have patched things up, but I still find it hilarious that she did that. The first game that my husband and I watched as a couple was when the Bears made it in '07 (hey he's from Chicago so I even wore orange and blue thanks to my Morgan wardrobe). Okay that was my stroll through my recent Superbowl , how about yours?

What do you plan on doing with your life?

2011-01-30T10:34:00.000-05:00

I actually was asked this question twice this week by people who just found out what they wanted to do late in their lives. Do you know how frustrating it is to hear this question? I mean I hear it too often, and I'm like why should I have to know automatically in stone what I want to do with my life when I'm not even 30? There are people who feel that you have to be at a certain point in your life where you have to know right here, right now what you aspire to do with your life. Why? That's the beauty of living...you must adapt and know that life changes just like that. So why should what you plan on doing with your life have to be so concrete? I never understood that, and I guess I never will. I know that I want to be involved in marketing/event planning at some point in my life, but just not now because I am still trying to figure out who is Jasmine and what is her purpose?

I don't know am I the only one who feels this way?

Start your New Year off right with a Free Calendar

2010-12-31T16:44:00.000-05:00

From Simply Trini Cooking- with pictures of foods from Trinidad and Tobago

If you're not interested in this calendar you can always personalize on for yourself. 2011 with holidays
Okay back to going into hiatus mode on here...gotta take care of the kid and hubs.

What I liked and didn't like in 2010

2010-12-31T11:54:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I saw a tweet from Afrobella about another blogger hosting a 25 blog post challenge for an Amazon gift card (I saw gift card and said oh wee doggy I can buy some of that new fangled stuff I saw on Amazon). Then after being up for 16 hrs I was like ummm yeah my brain can't even come up with 25 things to post about...me Mrs. Random?? I mean that was like let's close up shop on the blog because it can happen. I was going to try a post of 25 music posts of each mood I had during the day because hey my moods fluctuate on a regular. Then I said no let's make a post of 25 random things that I observed during the day (i,e, last night saw a guy get off at Naylor Road station wearing something that look like he robbed the Cowardly Lion of his fur). Then I said there might be a posse of people who will be coming after me, or attacking me when I go back and forth in between my temp assignments. lol SO yeah had to nix that one. Then it was going to be about 25 different posts on the different events in my life...then I said eff it let me just make one post, and if I happen to come up with 25 things then so be it. Like to read it (hopefully you will because I brought the blog out of hiatus to write it up lol)....

I have come to the conclusion that graduate school is not for everyone, especially for those of us who trying to fit into everyone's definition of happiness besides your own. Grant it I do not think of the experience as something that was NOT a positive for me, but it just wasn't what I needed to add onto another stressful situation.
I love that fact that I am now thinking about what I am really interested in, and that whenever someone would ask me about my major I would tell them it was about web development, customer service and how to get into the government. Then I thought nope, it's not just about that and I actually enjoyed putting together a marketing plan, which let me know if anything I need to know how to sell and market myself.
That out of the few times my best friend came into town (especially this week) that I was not able to see him 1) because of previous family engagements, 2) I was really embarrassed with how my life was going, and 3) this week AJ has been sick so I kept her quarantined. So, eventually I do want to make it up to him, and actually come down there to Florida with the fam to visit.
I have come to the realization that I am tired of trying to please everyone, and that is very refreshing! Like I really don't know if that's coming from me gain another year in age (I turned 29 on Tuesday), but yeah it's just an uncomfortable feeling.
That I need to actually take control of the budget in my house because half of the time I don't where the money is going (at least when we don't put our money together). I need to really buckle down, and come up with a PowerPoint or something to make it clear. lol
That my daughter is the reason for my happiness, when she's happy I am 2x as happy; when she's sad I want to cry and absorb all of her pain; when she's pissed I want to flick off and go on a war hunt to find out who upset my baby!!! I guess now I know how my mother feels..lol since I'm her only baby too.
I love the fact that my blog isn't just about one thing, and one thing only. I mean it's all about me being my random self, and my getaway from my dull or hectic times in life.
That I do still have a love for the arts, and damnit before I leave this earth I'm going to either get up and sing in public or become a great photographer.
That I'm really not the typical "black" girl...I mean seriously which one of us are, and why would we even want to fit into their stereotypes? I mean ugh!
I love that I am really not going to be like anybody's mother unless they are opinionated, like rock music, like to experiment with making different recipes (hair and food), and just likes to not have that role of the woman (umm if you don't move your mutha*beep* shirt and wash your dishes!!!)...yeah I'm a handful lol
That I love the fact that I love ALL cultures...I guess that inquisitive mind of mines, but it's just something about me that I love. People ask me when we talk about different cultures, have I been to these places, and I just tell them nope...I read a lot (insert Cheshire Cat grin).
WHAT I DO DISLIKE about 2010...THE PALINS! I'm freaking tired of hearing about Sarah and her teabaggers; Bristol and her made up drama with her sons father; and then the fact that they're so freaking popular. Like really why???????
I also do not dislike underhanded comments about POTUS and the first family. Seriously wtf? Dubya was a former drunkard/coke head, with a daughter and a niece who were known to be *ahem* party girls, but once a mother shows concern about her daughters being a little meaty she's blasted. So being concerned about your child's well being makes you a bad parent?? *side eye* Oh yeah and let's not forget about the fact that the man is trying his darnest to make sure that everyone has some type of health insurance instead of going into bigger debt or yeah dying because they can't afford treatments, then he has dbags taking him to court. Oh and let us not forget about the oil spill in the gulf, and the order he put to put a stop on the drilling. Heaven forbid that the man was trying to at least not have another rig go up in flames, and then another gusher happening. *throws hands up* I gotta give it to him because after awhile I would have said "ya know wha...eff you, eff you, you're cool (pointing at Hilary), and I'm out!" *deuces*
I DO NOT LIKE THIS WEATHER!!! One minute it feels like I'm the ant in the ant farm being cooked under a magnifying glass, and then having that said ant farm put under water just to be put in the freezer. (repeat cycle) Like I really don't know what people on that side of the fence are smoking, but there's a reason why people have been on the mission to make their lives a little greener (just a smidgen) .
I do not like that there will no longer be a middle class. I just don't see it happening, unless there's going to be something to rectify what's going on (hello COLA anyone??) things will continuously be divided.
For the life of me I am tired of the hood economics, just follow what they did just don't get caught. Again wtf, do you even know what the flaka you're saying. I bet you're one of those "yes suh nah suhs" aren't you? I mean these are the same folks who are giving me scenarios that they have heard of working for their other colleagues. You tell them stuff that the counterparts wrote in books, and oh lawdy *shots fired* you telling them about that fancy book learning...in other words I'm tired of us being ignorant. Tell people to pay for stuff in cash, not credit oh boy I messed up their scheme of getting over. Yeah you have credit, but history does show after awhile your credit isn't going to mean squat.
I see how I have a lot to say, and just maybe this blog post is giving you a preview of what direction I am trying to take the blog for 2011. Will I keep it up...maybe since bills need to paid, and of course just looking at the length of this blog yeah I have a lot to say lol.
Oh yeah...WE'RE ALL BLOGGERS AND BOUNCE OFF THE SAME IDEAS, STOP ARGUING WITH EACH OTHER!!! It's not a good look, and yeah you might get a surge in visitors (because shoot yeah I want to see each parties side of the argument blame my inner attorney) but at the end of the day you're blogging and expressing your views. Let the other person get a chance to blog and express their views. It's petty, childish, and hello if people want to follow another persons opinion then so be it. Isn't that how you got so popular?
I love tumblr! Like do I have to go any further in that? lol shout out to http://www.strawberricurls.com/<---I keep giving you shot outs on fb come on my side of the planet sometime lol
I really didn't know that the natural hair movement was going to be such a big thing. I actually see it as being refreshing, and I'm beyond flattered when people come up and say something about my hair (nope I don't have a camera so sometimes you have probably seen me around the city and didn't know so :-P lol)
I love that my MIL is trying her best to inspire my mixologist side, and has told me on numerous occasions to bite the bullet spend the money and see what comes of it. First time I actually plan on taking her advice. So be on the look out soon for something by Missus JAHT.
I have started to find a love for old cinema..the story lines, the flowery dancing, and the fact that it's a happy ending.
It's official I must live in Europe for one year. I think it's the Dutch blood in me that's rebelling against the working class Irish/Black sides, and telling me I must live there. Believe me I have been trying to find me escape for the States and honestly DC. I feel like it's been my crutch (woo hoo another revelation).
Before I die I am going to play PRETTY mas in every Caribbean Carnival around the world. Looks like I just might need to hit the lotto. Anyone who knows me knows that I have been studying the costume designs with a fine tooth comb, and even notice copycats.
Speaking Carnivals...I am so done with DC Mud Band. I guess I used to be blind or to inebriated to realize that the younger the crowds would get the drunker people are. Either that or they need to not come to band pissy from the night before. Like your speech should not be slurring at 9 am, and you're drinking water/gatorade. lol and smh

OMG 25 things!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I think my brain hurts from digging that deep. lol Well I apologize for the lengthiness, but it was definitely worth the posting. I leave you with what I was listening to while I had AJ sitting in the bathroom steaming with our peppermint and rosemary.
Digga D- Last Lap for Old Year's Nite (we listened at the last lap part because I was trying to get her to wukk up her cough lol).

Hey EVERYONE!!!

2010-12-27T18:24:00.000-05:00

I decided to give the blog a holiday break, but I am definitely having fun on the Facebook Fan Page. Please feel free to post and comment on the many posts I have over there. I am not giving up on this blog, but I am in the middle of trying to see which direction I want the blog to go.

FROM THE R & D FAMILY...MERRY "BELATED" CHRISTMAS, BELATED BOXING DAY TO MY WI POSSE (AND PRETTY MUCH EVERYONE COLONIZED BY THE BRITS LOL), KWANZAA, AND HERES TO YOU HAVING A FRUITFUL/BLESSED NEW YEAR!!!

Are You Craving: The Crushing Pressure of Body Image

2010-12-19T07:00:00.000-05:00

Are You Craving: The Crushing Pressure of Body Image
As I get closer to my deadline for the being 20lbs lighter, and noticed yeah I'm still stuck at 10lbs (but toning up a little) I started to beat myself. This article made me refocus on my goal to at least be a lighter me, but in a healthy way.

My hair....HATES ME!!!

2010-12-17T11:33:00.000-05:00

All of the rage that is in this video is what my hair is doing to me right now. I haven't been able to moisturize and seal while wearing it in a protective style. All I feel are rough spots, dry ends, and hair is just ashy. Perfect combination for another search and destroy mission for my ends, but I honestly feel like I need to do an intense DC. I'm looking around for a good homemade one because right now it looks like I'm wearing a bad Diana Ross wig from the 70s. Just big and full of frizzy goodness! I have eggs (even though I have a reconstructor conditioner I plan on mixing), oils (coconut, JBCO and Olive Oil), some good base conditioners (HETT, Pantene, etc.), and a husband who is off today with the Wii controller (hopefully they'll be watching a lot of kids/family movies smh and lol). I think I'll have to alternate doing co-washing and shampoos because my hair is just unhappy.

His bottom layer is actually on point lol

I must honestly listen to her, or my hair will look like Twisted Sister.
If you're looking for a good base conditioner try these suggestions:

Believe it or not I have used ALL of these conditioners, with these being the main ones that stand out because of their stellar results.

Yay I have a Facebook Fan Page

2010-12-11T20:12:00.000-05:00

It's about time, but I finally have my blog connected to Facebook. So, this way we can chit chat on there, and you can see how quirky I really am. *rubs hands and insert *

I love Swagbucks

2010-12-11T14:18:00.000-05:00

I get paid to search for random things on the internet because hubs and I have this thing about debates. At first I was like google it, but now I'm like "uh un uh un, go to the swag bucks window and type that in there!" (lol) I just had to share that moment because I just purchased my parents and grandparents Christmas gifts, and a stocking stuffer for AJ. I also just entered myself in one of the Holiday 2fer1 contests, so I can at least try to grab that Shrek DVD pack (oh how her and I love us some Shrek). Okay now back to LOTR! (geeky laugh and snort)

Well I passed both of my classes

2010-12-11T13:46:00.001-05:00

Time to celebrate, but it's also a wake up call for me that I need to say adios to grad school (at least until I am more established). I met some interesting people in my classes, and even still communicate with one of my classmates. It also lets me know that I am definitely up for the whole empty whole E-Business program, and that I need to focus on Marketing. I did say that I will try to give teaching a shot (despite my many protests because I know that's not all I can do with my educational and occupational background). So, right now I'm trying to put together my application, and see when I can take the Praxis II because I am interested in working in Secondary Education History or English (skipping 6-9th grade if I could). This might even give me a chance to take some classes in subjects that will actually hold my interest.
I leave you with this, while I watch "Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring" and sip my egg nog (don't judge me, I'm a big geek but a cool one lol). Instead of Beauty School, switch it to Grad School Drop Out lol.

Umm Santa I just took a peek at my wish list

2010-12-11T07:09:00.000-05:00

Whew doggie! lol I know earlier this week KCCM posted on Facebook what is on your natural hair list. Well honestly I was compiling my wish list for the Mastercard/Amazon wish list contest because hey I need some stuff around here to make it a little more comfortable (I added a Keurig, a wi-fi entertainment center 'trying to cut down my cable bill', a couple of space heaters, and like two cases of coconut water#dontjudgeme). The other thing is that I can add items from any site as long as I added the universal wish list button to my toolbar. *insert Grinch smile* I mean I work part-time, so this is like a fantasy list for me, with the exception of me being able to at least purchase some of the etsy items I added.
Here are some of my hair items that I added to my wish list (here's the link as well http://amzn.com/w/1WXA428SOMI31):

Hair Rules Kinky Sample Kit...yeah I really don't have the $40 to purchase it, but I have been longing to try these products out.

PUMPKIN CHEESECAKE Shea Butter Cream Rinse / Leave In Conditioner

Now I'm not sure if this is what the conditioner looks like, but the ingredients sound uber delish!

(photo courtesy of Jasmine's etsy store (maybe I'm just a little partial to the name lol))

Key Ingredients:
Aloe Extract will make wet / dry combing easier, and adds a protective coating to the cuticle.
Jojoba oil adds light conditioning benefits without weighing hair down. Because its makeup is so similar to the natural sebum in skin and hair, it makes an excellent emollient.
Shea Butter adds its host of natural moisturizing benefits.
Cetearyl Alcohol provides extra slip, viscosity, and conditioning for ease in styling
Glycerin acts as the humectant, while Wheat Protein strengthens and improves hair's moisture content.
Panthenol penetrates the cortex, improving shine, strength, and preventing split ends.
Allantoin prevents further damage to the cuticle.

I hate sitting under the dryer for a deep conditioner, which is the reason why I warm up my conditioner a little bit with the warm shea butter and oil, and then plop on my "cap" (shopping bag). I still get great results, but it would be nice to actually you know feel like I'm in the salon. lol

Okay everything else is for somethings around the house, and gift cards...I lie I have like Parachute Jasmine scented coconut oil (again just partial to it), Vatika oil (can never find it, and I don't live near any East Indian markets), EVERYTHING FROM NATURE ISLE!!!!, Shikaki oil, Amla oil, and some other hair goodies. I really do plan on doing some mixology up here. Hubs has been asking me why is it taking me so long because I usually have good mixes, and when he uses them on his beard (he adds my oil mixes to it when it gets a little dry) it fills in the gaps. cha...anyways what's on your wish list (hair, around the house, whatever).

I need your feedback

2010-12-08T16:40:00.000-05:00

It's been (thinking in my head) well over two years since I have had this blog, and I want to get your feedback on what you want to see on this blog? I'm open to what you would like to see (just to let you know this is not just a blog about haircare, but about EVERYTHING that comes to mind). Thank you in advance for your opinion (be gentle)!

Curly Nikki | Natural Hair Styles and Curly Hair Care: Scalp Issues and Natural Hair

2010-12-08T10:25:00.000-05:00

Curly Nikki | Natural Hair Styles and Curly Hair Care: Scalp Issues and Natural Hair: "Daria writes: There isn’t much mention of scalp issues in the natural world….(ie dandruff, psoriasis, dry scalp, etc). Has anyone noticed..."

I have to share this with those who are suffering too with this issue. I have psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis, but mine's is a hereditary issue since it's on my maternal side of the family (I was at first diagnosed with having eczema like my other family members). Some the tips that are shared are tried and true relief treatments.

Ugh winter just sucks...

2010-12-07T18:40:00.000-05:00

The moisture out of my skin! I swear I could drink a gallon of water a day, and my skin will still feel like I need to add more oil and lotion on it to at least prevent the ash factor. Now my lips feel like Tyrone Biggums, I mean isn't that why they make chapstick and other lip salves? lol
What are you tips for keeping your skin moisturized, and please don't say vaseline (my skin laughed at it yesterday when I was walking through the tundra).

Something I saw while on the Saving Queen's Blog

2010-12-07T18:29:00.000-05:00

This year the Gaylord at the National Harbor is having "ICE: We Froze the Grinch." I've been meaning to try to get little AJ together along with some of my fellow Mommies and their little ones together for a get together (shoot even the kids at heart). Looking at this vlog with photos from the event, I might even make it a date night event. LOL For more information about the event, and the chance to get in on a discount on tickets hit up the Queen.http://www.savingqueen.com/2010/12/gaylord-nationals-ice-featuring-how.html
Enjoy!

Toys"R"Us Holiday Scavenger Hunt

2010-12-06T16:24:00.000-05:00

Toys"R"Us Holiday Scavenger Hunt: "Enter for your chance to win $25 Gift Cards Daily! One grand prize winner will also receive a $1500 Gift Card!"

Ya girl needs some assistance with some research

2010-12-03T10:10:00.000-05:00

When I'm referring to referral service I'm speaking of a place where you can find reliable service providers (similar to what I'm trying to do on this site for free or with a minimal donation *cheese*). Please assist me with my final. :-)

Crunchy Ends...time to break out the big guns

2010-12-01T11:23:00.001-05:00

So, yesterday I took out my flat twists with a curly bang (of course nobody thought of taking pictures of the hair boo!), and all I felt were crunchy ends. I blame myself for that because of course I went outside during my last assignment with wet hair resulting in some heavy damage. I'm at the point where the scissors will be my only friend in this manner...talking about my current length losing like 4 inches (so pretty much up to my earlobes not straightened/ to my chin if straightened). I did a search and destroy, but that's a little too ahead of the actual reason behind this post.

So, I decided to nix the shampooing and what not because I wanted to be lazy (I know bad Jazzy bad bad lol), but did want to get the maximum benefit I could out of the conditioners (the Follicle Healer rwasn't the only one I used (-:). While I was waiting for AJ and her Granddad to come to the house (since once again I'm not on an assignment go frigging fig right), and procrastinating on writing this final due on Sunday at noon I decided it was time to dc my hair. So, I opened my packet of the Follicle Healer, melted like 3 tbls of shea butter in a generous amount of sweet almond oil, and mixed everything in a jar of some leftover Neutrogena Triple Moisture Deep Recovery Mask (need to go back to purchasing this stuff again) with about 10 drops each of rosemary and peppermint EOs. Wrapped my hair in like two shopping bags, and let it sit on my hair for like 12 hours lol (I woke up this morning at around 2 to rinse it out). While I was twisting my hair I noticed that my ends were just beyond fried/dry, and reached for my shears.

My product of choice this time for my twists is instead of my Olive Oil Girls, mainly because that's more of a warmer months type of gel. This one has a lot of weight, which is needed for my hair, and also doesn't leave my hair feeling so wet. Right now my hair feels wonderful, and my ends (not all of them) feel like silk. I can't wait to do a decent trim all over just so my ends won't drive me to going ape over here.

What's your go to for when your ends start to feel a little crunchy?

In Honor of World AIDS Day I am posting where

2010-12-01T10:49:00.000-05:00

You can know your status. I'm sorry, but I am just not trying to see my followers dwindle away with reckless behavior. I'm not trying to put you out there, but this is coming from someone who is genuinely concerned with this upcoming generation, and shoot even my generation because there are some who do not value their lives. I live not even a mile from D.C., and to hear that we (born and partially raised there) have an AIDS population as large as Africa breaks my heart.

World AIDS Day 2010 in DC, Maryland and Virignia
Free HIV testing today
Happy World AIDS Day, We Love DC. A full list of the day’s rallies, vigils and parties will be coming your way shortly, but I thought I’d help you kick off the morning with a roundup of sites offering free HIV testing today. If you haven’t been tested since getting cozy with a new partner, then it’s probably a good idea that you do so.
The Whitman-Walker Clinic will be sponsoring free HIV testing from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m at the Elizabeth Taylor Medical Center (1701 14th St., NW), and from 9:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Max Robinson Center (2301 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., SE).
The Women’s Collective (1333 Rhode Island Ave., NE) will be hosting free testing from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
The Student Union Building I at George Mason University’s Fairfax Campus will be offering free testing from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. today, from 7:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. tomorrow, and from 7:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Friday. Ten panels from the AIDS Quilt will also be on view.
The Washington Hospital Center will be offering free HIV testing in front of the Washington Cancer Institute (110 Irving St., NW) today from 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and tomorrow from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Kinky Curly Coily Me!: Protective Updo Hair Styles for Work & Leisure

2010-12-01T10:20:00.000-05:00

Kinky Curly Coily Me!: Protective Updo Hair Styles for Work & Leisure: "Here's a list of styles you can rock to work, a business meeting, or an event that requires you to look professional. These are all protect..."

PERFECT TIMING WITH THIS POST!!!! If you do not follow Mrs. KCCM please do yourself a favor, and say hello to her!

Daily Deal from Starbucks- Day 1

2010-12-01T10:12:00.000-05:00

So I don't know about you guys, but I got my first text this morning from the "Bucks" (after my actual coffee time). Today's deal is for each beverage purchase you make 5 cents will be donated to the Global Fund to fight AIDS in Africa. If you haven't signed up send a text message to 24493.
Happy sipping, and it's even sweeter because you're aiding into a huge epidemic. :-)

I found a place for Drop Off for Packages of Love and Hope!

2010-12-01T09:52:00.000-05:00

Of course it would be my church, duh! But wait before you click the "x" there's an actual event where we (or you) can drop off the packages. The church's Women's Ministry is putting together "Joy to the World" an evening of FOOD, music and fellowship. I emphasize on food because I know I might have some college followers, or even people who are just interested in some free food. Think of it like this you donate a few things including gently used clothing, canned foods, products (they specify ethnic hair products, but I'm sure a little Suave and Aussie isn't going to make them totally disgusted shoot we use them lol), or even some items like dish towels can help out a family in need. The list of items that they are requesting will be listed in the tab "Project 'Packages of Love and Hope." It's just about where can we assemble these packages since the event is next Friday on the 10th time is of the essence. I wish I had thought about trying to assemble others at least a week prior to Thanksgiving, but this was something that came from my heart (I literally cried watching the lines at the Food Banks, which made me feel so blessed). I know that some of us are not fortunate enough to donate a generous amount of money, but just taking the time out to go along with the season of giving is more than enough.

Joy to the World

sponsored by Mt. Ennon Baptist Church's Women's Ministry

Friday, December 10, 2010

7PM until

9832 Piscataway Road, Clinton, MD 20735

online registration at http://www.mtennon.org/index.php?option=com_forms&task=registernew

I hope to see everyone who interested there next Friday. You'll get a chance to meet/see the family and I. :-)

Forgive me my fellow curvies

2010-11-26T19:50:00.000-05:00

I totally forgot to post about the Onestopplus.com Black Friday Sale, where you receive 25% off of order $75 or more. Blame it on me more worried about Operation S.C. (Santa Claus, but shhhhh lol).

(image courtesy of http://www.onestopplus.com/Plus-Size-Clothing.aspx?DeptId=11542)

Happy Black Friday folks...deals, deals and more deals

2010-11-26T06:07:00.000-05:00

I am currently on my 2nd Sugar-Free crack in a can aka Red Bull, just trying to get physically motivated to do some early bird shopping at Toys 'R' Us because yeah Santa needs to get some good deals in for Christmas. I'm trying to get her of course a big ticket item, and then some other items. The stocking stuffer ones will be on Christmas Eve. Sorry I LOVE Christmas Eve sales, and that's usually when I get some good things to put under the tree. This post is the beginning of my journey, which I plan to edit with my haul from the Land of Geoffrey the Giraffe. Let's see how well I am can shop for $100. :-) Okay I can see the sun, so let me get some type of workout done before I turn that blickey into Supermarket Sweep. lol (for the "old heads" check the video; my bff/ AJ's Godmother and I said we were gonna turn that place out)

fading rihanna.wmv

2010-11-25T09:51:00.000-05:00

One of my favs from Miss RiRi...might actually have to buy this album (coming from someone who does not buy albums lol).

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! community service project included

2010-11-25T06:16:00.001-05:00

(Image courtesy of http://www.clipartguide.com/_pages/0511-0710-2218-2561.html)

Don't mind Tom he's been protesting all week for people to have steaks and roast beef this year instead of deep frying him (or his family). I wanted to take the time out to wish everyone a very Happy and Blessed Thanksgiving! Take the time to be thankful for all of what has been given to you, and try to share that cheer with others. I didn't see that many angry children yesterday so I didn't get a chance to pass out my lollipops (I usually do that when I'm on the Metro), and wish them well. People do it to my daughter whenever she has a tantrum/meltdown. I call it my way of giving the gift of silence for my fellow parents. lol

Of course I missed my opportunity to get out of bed in time to find somewhere to volunteer my time, but I do wish to at least donate my time around this time of year particularly around Christmas. If anyone wants to join me in assembling boxes please let me know. I have not found a location that will be putting together "Packages of Love and Hope," but if need be we can always use someone's basement to put together these packages. If you are interested please do not hesitate to contact me via this blog by posting a comment. Of course if there is a location that comes up I will definitely post an address of either a site where they are assembling, or where the assembly will take place. IF you do not wish to donate your time, or if you're a distance away from the Washington Metropolitan Area there are two ways that you can assist in this project. You can either donate by clicking on the "Let's Go Shopping" tab above and purchase non-perishable items that can be used to assemble these packages, or you can click the donate button (the one I use to ask for kind donations to sponsor this blog). To differentiate where the payments are to be allocated please write in the comments section of your donation "PACKAGES OF LOVE AND HOPE." There will be visual evidence of the assembling of the packages, and hopefully I can get other bloggers in the area to participate in this project.

Again Happy Thanksgiving everyone, and if you happen to be a party animal please be safe out there!

Black Friday Deals

2010-11-22T12:54:00.001-05:00

I have been seeing Black Friday deals since....September (yeah I know I call it "stuff I wish I had the funds to buy" shopping lol). Here are a few sites that you might want to check out, or if you want you can always just click on the "Holiday Gift Suggestions" tab featured here on this website. As always if you're doing any type of online shopping I highly recommend using RetailMeNot.com (I even have the codes on the side column just in case you want an easy reference) to get the best deals on these already low prices.

Better than the "old school" version we used to use that required that unsafe light bulb feature. Can be found on Amazon.com under their current Black Friday sale. http://www.amazon.com/dp/B003I85V00/ref=gs_htljs or http://www.amazon.com/Black-Friday-After-Thanksgiving-Sale/b/ref=bf_180roto2010?ie=UTF8&node=384082011&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=left-4&pf_rd_r=1EE6SPKDC1WDNKFPHZFA&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=1278758302&pf_rd_i=2322789011

*these coupons expire on Wednesday the 24th, so better get a move on!*

BJ's is even in the game! lol

HURRY UP AND PRINT THESE ADS!!!!

Holiday Hair

2010-11-22T09:14:00.001-05:00

So, we all know that the holidays are among us, with the kick off being Thanksgiving. This is around the time that you want to be your most presentable for the various parties, family gathers, and of course for when you're going out for a night on the town. Here are some suggestions, and I know me I'll more than likely be rocking my twist out with the sides pinned back. I would do some flat-twists in the back with a twist out bang.
You cannot go wrong with a good ol' chunky twists fro-hawk, courtesty of fellow blogger NikkiMae

You can find her @naturalchica.com
Then of course you could just do a nice flat twist out, like KCCM (Kinky Curly Coily Me)

I love a short weave that lays nicely, and fits to frame the face perfectly.

Braids are always a go to, especially if they're easy to maintain aka pat, spritz (moisturizer), add some oil and you're out the door. We all know the flexibility of microbraids, and here are some simple hairstyles that require less maintenance to get your diva on.

The curly roller set, something that I did on a regular when I did not want to do my hair.

Then of course there is always the classic bun

Who said you even have to wear your hair out. Vlogger yophiful shows us various ways to look fly without having to go through so much effort. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tdU9tulY0ds

Goal by 12/28/2010 is to be 20lbs lighter

2010-11-22T07:21:00.000-05:00

I keep losing an average of 2lbs a week, and I'm like if I can be anything closer to a solid 16 I need to lose another 20 lbs. Yes this weight loss is so I can start off my 2011 on the right healthy foot, but it's also to so myself that I can do it. I have lost a total of 8.8 lbs, and hubs was like "oh yeah you can do it, and I just might do it with you." Grant it I can tell a difference in my fatigue level, and I have started to build up my endurance but I want a more definite goal. So, you know what lets say another 20 lbs to top off my 8.8 loss. Does anyone else care to join me in this challenge? It can and will be done! *shakes free fist*

Daily Deal from Starbucks

2010-11-21T14:11:00.000-05:00

Starbucks is giving away daily deals starting December 1st, and all you will have to do is send a text to 24993 saying 12DAYS. *Boom* You get a reply text back stating you have been entered in the 12 Days campaign/whatever you want to call it. If you are interested in ending the text messages just send a text message to the same number that says STOP. If you haven't figured it out, my lifeline is all about get as many freebies or trying not to spend as much as possible (because I mean I am still a student on a TIGHT budget lol).

I wanna scream tooooooooooo!

2010-11-21T13:19:00.000-05:00

Especially like the guy in the audience (like he knew he was gonna get something great for his mama or for himself).

One day I would like to host a giveaway, and get everyone to react the same way. I guess that will just be via the coupons and Amazon deals I try to post on here. :-)

It's falinter! (Fall/Winter) And I'm tired of these weaves that look

2010-11-21T12:22:00.003-05:00

Drier than the leaves that fall on the ground! I understand that you are protecting your hair, or you want a style change but that does NOT mean that you're supposed to neglect your investment. If you go out of your way to pay your hard earned money to order hair (or go to your neighborhood BSS), and then search out the best person to install your weave, why are you not protecting it????????? I used to take random pictures of busted weaves because that just makes no sense in just wasting your money. I know some women even reuse their abused hair extensions. WHY?!?!
Okay so honestly I will not go too hard on you ladies (can't say gentlemen because even the gay men I know keep their hair TIGHT!), but I will try to give you ladies some pointers and will even post some vlogs from some youtubers.
1) BUY HIGH QUALITY WEAVE, there is nothing like the wind blowing, and all you see if what looks likes this

2) Please do not use heat on your hair everyday...if you do not do that for your natural hair, please respect your weave the same way. Better yet get your weave installed in layers that can fake a wrap.

3) You smell that...yeah it's your scalp asking you to remove the gunk, and to dry it completely so it won't get that mildew/sweaty smell. Here's another vlog by AkiyaKelly

4) Blend, blend blend!!!! I cannot stress this enough! When I used to wear weaves (sewn in or quick) I always had to make sure my hair blended because I could not be embarrassed with a ratty looking weave that did not blend with my natural hair. That is just dreadful!

Well ladies I hope this helps, and yes it's cold out here please if you can wrap your hair in a silk scarf. Make sure if you can, moisturize and seal your weave at night time. Stay beautiful!!!

I'm actually making progress

2010-11-14T19:30:00.000-05:00

After having a set back on my 2nd weigh in, I have officially lost 6.4 lbs and it's getting easier to know what I can and cannot over indulge. I will always have a thing for lattes, that is just a given, but whenever I was getting my extremely decadent ones for breakfast it was always just that breakfast (why have a Peppermint Mocha with whip AND doughnut when I could have it venti with a few extra pumps). I have now scaled back on the ventis, and made them grande size with a bowl of oatmeal (well I make my coffee at home because I get to control what's going in my cup). Now that the holidays are approaching it's about how I'm going to enjoy my favorite foods without blowing my loss. I do plan on adding more exercise to my program using my good ol' internet connection to get some free access to Free full length videos on Exercise TV, or if I don't feel like pulling up my internet at like 5 in the morning cut on the TV with my OnDemand workouts. If you don't have cable, which I honestly don't blame you, and you use a program like Netflix there are also exercise programs on there. I'm a big fan of the kickboxing, dance and pilates workouts. Hmm sounds like almost back in high school, except I was in the cardio kickboxing class, did jazz/hip-hop dance classes, and weight lifting to tone. I'll be darn if I'll be stuck eating an AJ portion of macaroni and cheese! lol Here are suggestions for those who are trying to not feel guilty while piling on the sweet potatoes (yuck can't stand those casseroles with the little marshmallows and all of that brown sugar). I even said that I was going to make a revamped string bean casserole, so I can have something less hogmawed out (yeah my family is southern down to the chitlins lol).

As promised

2010-11-14T16:40:00.001-05:00

I added another tab specifically dedicated to buying gifts for the holidays. I am someone who celebrates Christmas, but I do know there are people who are of other religious backgrounds and I don't want them to think that I am singling them out from the celebration. There are people who are even atheists who don't celebrate Christmas or Hanukkah, but celebrate Kwanzaa. I included gift cards because these (according to my experience) are also good for mailing gifts to those who are not able to come home for the holidays. Grant it you probably can't get to a Chili's in Iraq, but you can use an iTunes gift card to download books, movies and music while protecting your sanity (remember hubs is a War on Terrorism vet so he came to mind when picking out gift cards). I also added movies that were "family" friendly, and some that were just for when you want to get a giggle or two. I tried to make it as one stop shop as possible, and that even meant including the infamous slippers/underwear combo (okay I said underwear to be funny I will not help you pick out drawers). lol

Holiday Giveaway

2010-11-13T06:47:00.000-05:00

Nope I'm not hosting a giveaway ( at least not yet, I just don't have the funds for it ya know), but All You Magazine is having a holiday sweepstakes giveaway. All You Magazine's Holiday Sweepstakes
I just wanted to pass along the word, and hey if you happen to be a winner pass an anonymous gift card this way as a thank you present. lol (I'm kidding enjoy your gift!)

Did somebody say FREE????

2010-11-13T06:26:00.000-05:00

Free appetizer from Ruby Tuesday's! Perfect for when you're hanging out with your friends during the Thanksgiving/Black Friday/Cyber Monday holidays (some RT spots have wi-fi so you can nosh and sip while seeking out those great bargains). All you have to do is go to Ruby Tuesday on Facebook, click like, and there's a tab that will direct you to getting a free appetizer. Within 24 hours you receive a coupon for your appetizer. Woo-hoo right? lol
*shameless plug for the blog* I currently have coupon codes to the left of the page, which will help you (my audience) out with at least doing some online shopping. I will also add another widget to my A-Store (located under the "Let's Go Shopping" tab), that will at least guide you to better priced high ticket items. I know times are moderately rough, and usually Amazon has some nicely priced items with an occasional free shipping thrown in.

For real if you make my butt look like this I'll buy 5 pairs of these jeans!

2010-11-12T20:48:00.001-05:00

So, while looking around on "the book" I ran across one of the many ads that I see on their front page. Fashion to Figure...and yes if you're curvy you need to look at this site! Of course this wasn't the ad, but it was one of the first that saw on this website's home page. So, being on the fluffy side of curvy I had to give this site a once over since I can tell that I am losing some inches (would be more if I actually took that time to do my pilates as planned), and I might need to find some nice clothes to purchase in my new size. So, here are some items that caught my eye, and you have to keep in mind that I am looking for items that can be worn for work and "play".

Chiffon Blouse

Color:	Ivory
Size:
Style:	B16156
Price:	$26.00

Quantity:

Open shoulders
Dolman sleeves
Satin banded bottom hem
97% polyester 3% spandex
Hand wash
Made in USA
Measurement on size 1X - 31" long from shoulder; 50" bust
Available in women's plus sizes 1X - 3X
RETURNS ARE FREE AND EASY

Animal Print Kimono Dress

Color:	Multi Colored
Size:
Style:	31097-38P
Price:	$38.00 $24.99

Quantity:

Self tie belt
Stone details on front
92% polyester 8% spandex
Hand wash
Made in USA
Measurement on size 1X - 35" long from shoulder; 44" bust
Available in women's plus sizes 1X - 3X
RETURNS ARE FREE AND EASY

French Terry Dress with Belt

Color:	Grey
Size:
Style:	7389M
Price:	$36.00

Quantity:

This ultra comfortable French Terry Dress is perfect to wear with leggings under a long cardigan. The waist belt accentuates curves while the high scoop neck and longer length makes it a cute hassel-free dress option. Pair with leggings and boots for an easy, comfortable look.

Fit:True to size
Attached cotton belt
Thick band hem
35% polyester 60% cotton 5% elastane
Hand wash
Made in USA
Measurement on size 1X - 38" long from shoulder; 32" bust
Available in women's plus sizes 1X - 3X
RETURNS ARE FREE AND EASY

Of course there are more to choose from, but I don't want to load up the post with pix. :) So, please check them out if you're interested. They're on my watch list, and hopefully I'll be able to post something about a sale in the near future (hint hint).

My hair officially did the men on film

2010-11-12T20:09:00.000-05:00

"Hated it!" When I used this to co-wash this week. My curls/coils/kinks did clump, but they clumped into a nice wiry/dried up mess. Some people might have have better luck with it, but I on the other hand no dice. I could have used those $3 to buy a bottle of my Suave Humectant, or better yet another bottle of Hydralicious (yum, perfect winter time conditioner too). I'm not going to throw it away (waste not want not), but I will pump it up and add some sweet almond oil, an egg, a couple of drops of rosemary oil and some shea butter to turn it into a nice deep conditioner. If I could find my bottle of castor oil I would use that in place of the sweet almond oil since it's heavier. Oh well at least I know not to buy it again, but I knew better because every time I have bought a product solely geared towards curly hair it leaves my hair feeling like a haystack. *le sigh*

What I really feel like doing/not doing today

2010-11-06T17:11:00.000-04:00

I'm bored supposed to be in the middle of writing a 5 page paper that some people were complaining about how can you cram in so much information in so much little space (I complained about the 1st paper because it was 3 pages long, with 5 pages worth of information), and also writing about which platforms to choose from that will work with my current company (ummm I'm a temp and substitute teacher so yeah lol). So, that has me coming up with the list of what I want/don't want to do this afternoon/evening.
What I DO NOT want to do

I don't want to write these papers...like seriously I want something hands on dagnabit, and writing a paper is not going to assist me with knowing how to design a website.
I don't want to sit here and watch these old movies that hubs is picking out. We pay a perfectly good cable bill with ALL OF THE MOVIE CHANNELS, and grant it I like Netflix but I also like picking out movies too.
I don't want to sit in the house tonight...shoot it's cold and I need to be active
I don't feel like eating a healthy meal, even that will derail my weight loss process, but w/e I don't want to! lol

What I DO want to do

watch reality tv, without him hemming and hawing about me getting my VH1 fix of foolishness and Jersey Shore fix (I'm so behind this season it is so crazy)
sit on twitter and look at the latest cat fights/celebrity gossip...I might not post it on here, but I sure do like the stuff that people stress about on twitter
sitting in someone's natural hair care class, and maybe even learning how to do some of these braiding styles outside of youtube because Mama needs some side gig money, ya dig?
eating some doubles with plenty peppa, with some conch fritters on the side and an extremely large glass (something like the size of the glass a Hand Grenade comes in)of GOOD rum punch. Highly caloric, but oh so satisfying
Go to the movies...I can't say how long it's been since I've been to a movie theater, but that's because it cost me just as much as buying 2 days worth of groceries, or 2 days of going back and forth on the Metro (yeah this assignment costs me about $12.40 a day..lol I know Metro has you coming and going)
giving myself a mani/pedi...I'm feeling girly so sue me :-)
bake this caramel cake because I have been eying this recipe since LAST week lol, but haven't because temptation is a mofo in this house Mama's Caramel Cake
take a nap! I feel like I need to recharge my batteries from this week.

Wow looks like my wants list is a little longer than I expected....HA! Who am I kidding, I really don't want to do what is expected of me, and I am passing my classes with pretty nice grades...it's just I want to have some plain simple fun! But since I just let out a big yawn, looks like I'll be in the club in my dreams lol. And yes when I wake up I will make that oh so healthy pot of Turkey Spaghetti that I planned on making this weekend, while attempting to write up my rough draft for one of my papers. *rolls eyes and pouts* Now if someone could be so kind, and FexEx me some conch fritters from USVI or the Bahamas I will be your friend 'til the end (I swear I will!!!)....oh yeah and add some rum to that order. ;-)

Product Review on Redken Curl Wise 14

2010-11-06T14:35:00.001-04:00

Product Description: Regulate frizz volume & define coarse curls Formulated with Redken's New Curl Care Complex Contains protein & antioxidants to minimize color fade & shield from environmental damage Blended with Mango Butter to impart intense moisture Reveals healthier & more manageable curls.
Ingredients: Aqua/Water, Dimethicone, Propylene Glycol, Cetyl Alcohol, PVP, Isoceteth-20, VP/Eicosene Copolymer, Stearyl Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Carbomer, Triethanolamine, Chlopehnsi, Parfum/Fragrance, Disodium EDTA, Limonene, Linalool, Mangifera Indica Seed Oil/Mango Seed Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate, Citral, Hydroxypropyltrimonium, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Benzyl Benzoate, Coumarin.
Price: depending on where you purchase the most expensive I have seen it was for $46 on Amazon, but I have also seen it as low as $11.99. I suggest going to either Amazon.com or Bizrate.com to find a good price if you don't mind purchasing it online.
Rating: 4/5; hair needs to be sopping wet and moisturized and sealed so you can get the shiny curls and coils as promised. The volume is reduction was there I guess, but I have a lot of fine dense hair so I guess that's why I'm always fluffing my hair whenever I use this product.

Okay well I was rummaging through my hair box...okay one of my many hair boxes, and was looking for an alternative for something besides the hair pudding. Not that I fell out of love with it, oh heavens no! I just wanted another alternative, and wanted something that wouldn't take as long to dry on days I wanted to wear my hair out (hey I haven't had the time to do my twists life won this go around lol). So, I ran across this product thought shoot what's the harm in it with the exception of it make my hair a big ol' helmet. Well I will say I am not upset my overall results, but I will say I will NEVER use this product on hair that has not been moisturized and sealed. In this vlog (hehe I'm goofy so sue me) you can see that it's a little dry looking, but any other time I moisturize with SheaMoisture hair milk and seal with either sweet almond oil or castor oil. Which usually leaves my hair with a nice sheen before even applying my styling product. I promise I will give a better review, but I wanted to do it since today was my 3rd day using the product. I co-washed with HETT (Totally Twisted, which was my first time using this product), applied the Curl Wise while my hair was sopping wet and then called myself drying it with a t-shirt (like I've been doing this week). Well I did curly girl no-no, touched it while it was still wet even while filming the video. My hair is still damp in sections, but I did want to at least share my experience even with frizzy not so smooth hair. Yup the facial expressions are priceless, but what can I say sometimes I'm animated. :-) I need to get started on my papers, but I'm now sleepy again. (darn it! *snaps fingers*) *Oh btw I honestly am confused about my hair type, but I will say that I am primarily a 4a with some sections being 4b and 3c (my crown zig zags and spirals in all kinds of directions). In any other reviews for products I will at least try to show you what my hair looks like soaking wet.*
Hope it helps! I will be posting the less expensive product in my store listed in the tab "Let's Go Shopping!"

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!!

2010-10-31T16:27:00.000-04:00

*THIS IS ABOUT THE SPOOKY FUN FOR ADULTS, AND THE FUN IN DRESSING UP FOR THE KIDS. NO NEED TO "THUMP" AKA POST SCRIPTURE ON HERE THANK YOU*
Now that has been addressed, I loooooooooooooooooooooove me some Halloween. Nope not just because of the dressing up and going around to random strangers asking for candy, but for the memories I have from my childhood. Grant it we didn't carve up the pumpkin like we did when I was a kid in Houston, but we did watch the Great Pumpkin, which I enjoyed more than she did. She did watch it a little, and did commentate what was happening but not the same as you know dancing along and laughing. lol We even watched Glee's Rocky Horror rendition, but that was because IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII LOOOOOOOOOOOOVVVVVVVVEEEEEEEEEE me some Rocky Horror Picture Show.
So, tonight like when I was around her age we're going Trick 'o' Treating, but not like we used to in the neighborhood. We're going to the mall, which I hope still passes out candy in this whole politically correct world. I want her to experience seeing the kids/adults parading in their costumes saying that lovely phrase of "Trick or Treaaaaaaaaat!" This year she's going to be as she calls it a Bumble Bee Princess. Think of Blind Melon's bumble bee dancing in the field. Like all I could do was sing "all I can say is that my life is pretty plain. I'd like to change my point of view, but it's not saaaaaaaane" when I saw the costume come home. She loves it...so much that she had a full blown tantrum when I told her she had to wait almost a month to wear it. I also so excited that Rocky Horror Picture Show is playing all day on Fox Movie Channel. I get to sing and bring out the jazz hands, and relive my tweens. I also get to see Dr. Funkenstein the sweet transvestite from transexual Transylvania.
With that said please be safe this Sunday evening, and enjoy that candy in moderation!

Runaway....my comments on it

2010-10-31T15:27:00.000-04:00

I don't know if anyone has seen the Hype Williams/Kanye West movie "Runaway" starring Selita Ebanks (VS Angel/Supermodel). I'm honestly a fan of Mr. West, and not only because I like to cheer on his Hennesy induced antics but because he really is an original artist. I got over the fact that he pretty much dresses like a quirky metrosexual with his band of guys pushing the questionable fashion status/statements because hey if you're different you need to prove it. Hint: Prince and the rest of the pumps wearers of the 80s. I won't say that he isn't the class clown that everyone is like he's such a butthole, but gosh his wit and charisma just cracks me the freak up. I will say this movie "Runaway" has literally left me so confused...scared...and wishing that Mama West video recorded herself giving her son advice whenever he decides to go on one of these said Henny binges to become creative (okay I'm only saying Henny because it could be a little *snort* induced as well).

Hubs, being a Chicago native, was like "wow....welp that's a Chi-town native, pushing the envelope while being creative" while he proceeded to pretend that he was Kanye, and was rambling off ideas about what he wanted in the video (while under the influence of a certain narcotic). "I want roman candles, a marching band, a model looking like a huge macaw like angel, ballet dancers, LOTS AND LOTS OF AUTOTUNE...yeah and FIRE!!" (that was hubs reaction to first seeing the video) So, while I'm laughing I was like omg this is entirely too long, and AJ is watching it with me with her head cocked to the side like "Mommy why?" She got extremely excited about the ballerinas, and wanted to put on her ballerina dress. I had to tell her no because it was bed time. She pouted, had a fit, but still cuddled up next to me and the laptop. Mind I was watching this while doing my mid-term, and pretty much had to have that entire 34:25 of my life frozen in time while watching this artistic portrayal of...what I don't know. Eventually AJ got bored, and fell asleep and I still with my arm going numb with holding all 30+lbs of dead weight on one arm glued to the laptop screen with my eyebrow cocked up. Eventually it ended, and I heard Gil Scott Heron reciting a poem that somewhat matched the theme of the video (I think) and all I could muster was "what the f&*k was that?"
So, after watching the movie/video/whatever for a 2nd and 3rd time (2nd time I was just skimming) I can finally say that I get the video. 1st time it was like oh gosh the shock value, 2nd time I wanted to see the turkey freak out and hear a couple of the songs including Runway, and 3rd time I wanted to actually watch and analyze the video. Here's what I came up with:

Hype Williams....I still love you! I loved with Belly, and I love how you can turn something so scattered into something art worthy
the turkey freakout.....like in my own sick and twisted way that effing hilarious. But I do like the theme of those sitting at the table frowning upon the "different" person, and the waitstaff (yeah I like that role reversal so what lol)
Mr. West in this b**ch...yes you are still the ish musically, and that is really what makes this video hot in the long run.
It would have been nice to have N. Minaj in the video instead of her just narrating, like it would have been nice for the being "different" part would have segwayed into Monster with Minaj wearing a similar macaw type costume (probably reminiscent to a Tribe costume 'for those that follow carnival in T&T')
Again about the pompous folks at the table, so they're so self-absorbed that they're toasting themselves? lol LOVE IT!!!!

There's soooooooooooooooooooo much I can say about this video/movie, but here's where I want to hear your thoughts about Mr. Douchebag West's "Runaway." Feel free to comment....who knows might spark a little dialogue with those who are thinking the same.

This post is brought to you by the letter C

2010-10-20T14:23:00.001-04:00

C is for cranky!!!! I'm in the middle of mid-terms, writing a paper for my other class (I know after having to write a paper last week), hungry (remember I am on WW), and sleepy (because AJ has taken a liking to our bed AGAIN, and my sleep pattern is off). I have also been applying for jobs during the times when I'm up looking at CBS news at 3 o'clock in the morning.

As far as WW (weight watchers for those who don't know) it's going fine honestly. I cannot say that I have been doing the recommended 3 days of cardio, but that is because every waking moment I am doing something for my school work (I did work out yesterday, but for only 20 mins). I've even started looking into other schools again because as much as I want to be a web developer, I need something more structured than this crap. At least if I find myself somewhere on a campus I can at least get some type of walking involved. I won't get into that subject (me missing campus life) again. lol

Now on the job part....I hate cover letters, the whole customizing for the same type of job just a different department/company thing is a PIA (pain in the arse). I mean grant it I understand how I need to stand out from the competition blah blah blah, but sheesh can I get a break? Hubs said "you like kids so find a job working with the kids," which resulted in me giving him the evil look. I already work with kids when I sub, but I said if I'm doing that I want to be a guidance counselor (reason why I went liberal arts in the first place because it would give me a well rounded education, where I wouldn't have to become a teacher).I honestly do want to get into non-profit working with children, or on the basis of improving the lives of children (particularly inner city/minority groups).

Sleeping...I'm just off schedule, plain and simple. I go to bed either too early, or even if I go to bed on time I wake up early as heck. Honestly there is a lot on my mind, but nothing that will kill me. Maybe I'll get in a nap so I can at least get some more reading done (said mid-term is due Sunday @ 3pm only wrote skeletons of what I need to do). I know one thing when December hits I'm so going to embrace my pillows, and welcome their warmth and comfiness into my life again. (lol)

Whip my Hair by Willow Smith

2010-10-18T15:12:00.000-04:00

So since I'm rocking the Condi Rice press today, AJ and I had to really whip our hair lol.
Enjoy
SB: Am I the only one who thinks the "teacher" in red got a little too much into it? lol

Today was my first day at WW

2010-10-16T15:07:00.001-04:00

I said long ago that I was trying to work out more, eat better, blah blah blah, and I was doing a lot better with my life. My pants were getting loser, I had more energy, and then boom I said let me go to grad school. That's when I ended up hitting the wall on trying to get myself in better condition for my baby girl, and for the child we're planning for when she's in Kindergarten (at least that way I'll have some funds put aside just in case I'll have to go on bed rest again).
So, I'll be using this almost like a log for me to at least keep track of what I'm feeling, and what might trigger how I eat and what constructive way I'll fix it. Today I felt down in the dumps because I knew I: had to completely remove the clutter from my living room tag teaming with Mr. T., work on my homework, and also work on my dangon mid-term that my beautiful teacher put an extension on (bless your heart!!!). So, I had a skinny Pumpkin Spice Latte, which is comparable to a Skim Cinnamon Dolce latte (3 points, GRANDE!!). Went to Giant to get my filling but satisfying spoon-size Shredded Wheat and a pint of skim milk (yuck, it's like gray water lol). I also bought a base soup for Maryland Crab Soup, which I plan to protein up with chicken and shrimp (Chesapeake Bayers my bad but yeah a chick needs something to make her not reach for the Cheetos lol).
Hopefully this is a good start, and my mother and I already said we're going in on breakfast after church tomorrow (she buys the Canadian bacon and light English muffins, and I buy the eggs, grits, cheese and whatever fruit we need). Oh yeah and this is another Mother/Daughter venture we're doing with her assisting me because funds are non-existent on my end. Maybe tomorrow we'll have wine spritzers while we watch the game....*pause* (giggles). I'll have to find a way to incorporate exercising if I get this position, but if not I'll have time to after assignments at the schools (yes if this assignment doesn't fall through I will be going back in the classroom to sub). Reason why my previous rant because I cannot have my hair straight, and then working out. Something has to give (lol), and hey maybe I'll put in some individuals so I can at least make sure that's something I don't have to worry about (hmmmmm sounds like a plan, but will I do it lol).

ugh why?????

2010-10-16T11:32:00.000-04:00

For some reason I feel some people are entirely too colored in their thinking process, which makes me want to move somewhere to embraces loose natural hair. Why is it that every time my hair gets to a certain way, okay haven't you stated how you feel by now? Why not just go ahead and relax it aren't you finished with your statement? You know your hair looks so much more professional straight. It's like damn I'm not doing this to have a statement, but I am doing it because I'm tired of a relaxer. I swear it makes me literally want to holler AND throw up both of my hands! (spoken by a fellow DMV native Mr. Marvin Gaye) I think that is one of the main reasons why I want to have my own business. At least the main focus will be on my talents, and not about how to appeal to corporate America. I have several people in my family who are naturals, but they're the short haircut type. You know might venture out into some comb coils and what have you, but primarily everyone else is relaxed. Thank goodness the ones from my generation are exploring the options of being natural, which means there's some type of hope. I'm the one who gets the flack because I want to wear the twists, braids and honestly I have not straightened my hair since August and that was for my uncle's funeral. Before that it was for me to have my hair braided in late March.
Okay I think I'm done with my rant...how you do you have one?

Thanks Beads, Braids and Beyonds

2010-10-14T11:48:00.000-04:00

I'm behind on my posting this week, but this was really supposed to go up last week. AJ loves this so much almost on that Elmo/Abby level (might need to make her into a permanent character). We watch it at least 3x a day, and she actually goes around the house saying "I love your hair Mommy." *tear*
Pass it along, shoot I even e-mailed it to my mother.

Washington, DC photographers....DC needs you!

2010-10-11T18:00:00.000-04:00

"Calling photographers - got great shots of DC to help promote the city? Submit your best electronic images to webmaster@destinationdc.com. Provide permission and proper photo credit info for publishing. We'll create a FB photo album to share the very best entries. Looking for powerful, exciting, inspiring, entertaining... images...the well-known and the hidden gems."

http://www.facebook.com/washingtondc I have to promote my city of birth, and at least pass it on to those who happen to love photography (be it career or hobby).

I had to share this one

2010-10-11T14:39:00.000-04:00

Being a substitute teacher I see the kids who get stuff just so they are not bothering their parents, and hopefully their parents will watch this. I knew kids who were receiving gifts for report cards with majority Cs, a couple of Ds and with poor marks in reading comprehension and behavior. I'm talking about ipods, iphones, shopping sprees, and I'm like I had to come home with no less than a 3.0 before I could even think about going shopping. I digress...Here's Little Girl Swag (aaaaaaaay)

What is your dream?

2010-10-11T10:33:00.001-04:00

So, this past weekend I attended a WOW (Women of Worship) Conference at my church, Mt. Ennon Baptist Church. The theme was about Women Empowerment based around Ephesians 2, and my mother and I were beyond excited to attend. Mainly because we are pretty much each others bff (true talk she's honest with me, cries with me, and supports me even if she doesn't approve), and it was just another level for us bonding as mother and daughter. So, of course we're so much alike that we didn't even arrive on time, and headed straight to chapel to make sure we had our seats. I honestly wish we had gotten some of that continental breakfast because I was dragging that morning, and needed something to at least help me focus on the workshops.
The first workshop was "The Power Within" that my mother picked, and it was actually somewhat worth it. I cannot say that I had gotten a lot out of it. It was one of those finding out how to bring up your connection with the Holy Spirit, and grant it that's how you can have guidance but I wanted something else. We did learn about that we did receive a gifts from the Holy Spirit, which were the gifts of creativity, boldness and confidence. Of course that was closer to the end of the workshop, and we didn't get an opportunity to touch that portion in depth.
The second workshop, I was feeling a little dizzy so I ate my chewy granola bar they gave us in our bag and refilled my water. I also gave my hubs a call just to see if everyone was alive, and to make sure that AJ didn't cause a mutiny. (lol) Found out she went to the Pumpkin Patch with her other grandparents, and he was about to go back to sleep. So, after I got off of the phone we went in for our next workshop, Unleashing the Vision (the one I picked). Now that one was great, and it worked out the way I expected it to. I thought she was going to make it something like a lecture in a classroom, which had me like "oh how I wish I had a 5hr right about now," but it took at good turn. First thing you must do is put together a vision statement, which requires:

to list 10 things you most enjoy doing? *be 100% honest* i.e. I like to be creative, assist others, make people laugh/happy...
write 3 things you must do everyday to make you feel fulfilled
you must pay attention to every aspect in your life, and how your vision statement will have an impact on these said aspects i.e financially, family, career, etc.

I could continue to go on and on, but I'll keep it short because I know how some people (including myself) feel about extra long posts. (: After the presentation, which I can find a way to scan and e-mail upon request, we were put into groups to discussion situations that certain characters in the Bible had to face: Saul (his past reputation), Naomi (her lack of faith), Joseph (the haters/doubters and to not be boastful because not everyone is going to support you), Abraham (not putting his trust in God to provide him and Sarah with a child), and there were two others but I forget (I fading by then and still upset at a group member who got in my face about not agreeing on something).
Honestly I couldn't even tell you about what happened after the luncheon because my "ADD" was starting to kick in, and how much the person who was sent to sing bored me. She had a wonderful voice, but when I think of worship I think of singing songs that make you stand up and shout. I mean I used to sing in choirs, and the only time we did the slow tempo songs they still reached you and made you shout (Total Praise, one of the hardest to sing, but still a favorite). It was like everything had to be really mellow, and I was like you have us here early on a Sunday morning so you might want to give us some Jesus caffeine lol. Overall it was still a great workshop, but I really enjoyed the "Unleashing the Vision" one. I do one day hope to become a successful entrepreneur. I would say in what field, but I learned my lesson in who supports me and who doesn't. I'm in E-Business now because I just want to add onto my liberal arts skills, and also want to know how to market to people. You can honestly say this workshop did assist me in trying to narrow down my dream/focus because I was really scattered about. I just know when I'm gone I want my daughter (and hopefully future children) to have something that their mother left for them to carry on. In closing I wanted to ask what is your dream? You can share it with us, or you can write it down for yourself to see daily. I know some of us have dream, but are afraid to approach it because of setbacks and plain fear. Claim your dreams people!

My poor AJ

2010-10-10T11:18:00.001-04:00

She gets like her mother when the seasons change I swear she does, but it really hits her hard in the Fall/Winter time. So, here I am wearing one of my many Mommy uniforms. I am today the nurse, along with chef, activity planner and even masseuse (shoot I have to rub my baby down with some good vapor rub). Well since I can't find that, and the vaporizer is in her room, we did the steam treatment with me using some of my peppermint and rosemary oil to help soothe her (and to open up those nostrils). Right now we're watching Coraline and she's sipping on chamomile.

I currently have the house smelling like a big cough drop since I started up her vaporizer. The best one that I can say that helps is the one that you can plug into the wall, and you just purchase the vaporizer pads. I mean my daughter is walking around here sounding like Gucci, so I'm trying to open those sinuses. (lol) I even brought out the aspirator...yeah that was NO fun at all at 7 this morning. Even though it's not recommended for children under 6, but her pediatrician did recommend for anytime she's congested to give her some Benadryl (1/2 tsp). It's helping her a little, and so it's looking like I need to rely on what worked when she was a baby. So, happy she can blow her nose because that aspirator is torture for both of us. (lol) There's always the vapor bath that really used to knock her out when she was younger...hmmmm might have to do that.
Well let me go because she just asked for some more tea, and on that note happy Sunday everyone! Let's go Skins!!!

Protective Style- Roller Setting

2010-10-10T06:55:00.000-04:00

I for one hates sitting underneath the dryer, but I do know the benefits of roller setting natural hair.

less direct heat
stretched hair with body
depending on the products, your hair is softer and more moisturized

Here are some vlogs that I found on the glorious youtube, and believe me 2 years ago there were not as many of these when I was a pregnant and also taking care of a newborn. If there were any, there were a handful who were type 4, and I honestly didn't care for their results.
Anyways enjoy! I need to get ready for chuuch, and look at what I'm doing lol. Thank goodness we have come as you are services because today looks like a jeans and pretty top day. :-)

Here's Curly in Colorado aka on youtube Mitchellzee (embedding was disabled) Roller set- part 1 & Roller Set- part 2...perfect for those who have shorter hair, or just a rack of shrinkage (haha haven't said a rack of anything in months).

If you have longer type 4 hair here's HealthyHairJourney

Welp I have to do interview hair....

2010-10-09T20:17:00.001-04:00

So, of course after I washed and deep conditioned my hair after posting the vid, I was told I have an interview (yay me!). Now grant it I have gone on interviews before, and even landed the positions (I'm a contract/temporary worker) wearing my puff. My last assignment I wore a puff mainly because I didn't have the time to actually do any styles (hence the reason why I had to trim earlier this month). Okay so fast forward, the assignment that was supposed to last until November got cut short, and I put myself on availability. So, this position is right up where I want to be financially and career wise.
On my checklist is to figure out what the freak is going to happen with my hair???? I was like hmm blow out pinned in a professional like style, and then I said oh yeah that's not going to fun lol. Then I said hmm let me do a curly set, and then I thought about sitting under that dang dryer. Final resolution, a press and curl...this time I'll use the actual pressing comb. Something about a good ol' fashioned press takes me back to my days in Houston. When they were done right my hair actually grew past my shoulders, and it was also thick and healthy. My phobia of pressing combs stems from the frying sensation I got from a press I received when I was getting ready for my baby shower (it's been almost 3 years and I'm still shell shocked lol). My deal is to pretty much do it MYSELF, or get my Mommy to assist me. More than likely it'll be me lol.

WISH ME LUCK!!! I will post a vid, especially before my interview so you can see the final results.
ETA:

Essence does all-natural November issue

2010-10-09T19:18:00.000-04:00

Essence does all-natural November issue
I had to share this one, looks like Essence got me on this one hands down. Curvy girl's health plan and then embracing your natural hair. Yup so when I get a chance I will be going to the store to buy this magazine.

Product Review on ORS Olive Girls Hair Pudding

2010-10-06T16:55:00.000-04:00

Okay so forewarning Mama hasn't had her 'brows done in a minute so yeah I have my bushy brows thing going on.(lol) I had to cut it short because AJ made an appearance in the video (well at least via audio), but I finally got a chance to use my ipod camera (yay me) and wanted to at least show the results of a twist out using Organic Root Stimulator Olive Oil Girls Hair Pudding. First things first I wish I got a picture of the texture, but if you know what Miss Jessie's curly pudding it's the same visually. Once you put your finger in this gel (all you need is a fingertip's worth), and it feels really slippery but in a good way. I started off with just regular sized twists (micros oh heck no!), put some oil on my fingers unraveled and fluffed. That's it, now that I like the results looks like I'll be twisting my hair again tonight so I can wear a nice twist out at service on Sunday (yeah already planning weekend hair). What would I rate it 5 out of 5, and when I mentioned that I had some flakiness it wasn't because of the gel.

Blown!!!

2010-10-06T13:00:00.002-04:00

How the heck does one lose a shampoo bottle after one use? lol I really wanted to do a review on Suave Professionals Rosemary Mint shampoo especially with my scalp turning into patches (I have seborrheic dermatitis, which flares up during the colder months), and I wanted to see if I actually felt that tingle that I've been craving. So, I'll just go by what I remember from that first time using it. First thing that came to mind when I flipped the cap "whoa there buddy that's strong" then I had the evil Mr. Grinch smile. lol I'm one who loooooooooves tingly shampoos, and just by that smell I was sure I had a winner. So, I rinse my hair and proceeded to add a little bit in my hand (like a dollop). I knew it...Suave did not let me down! I felt the tingle, but not a tingle that will make you squirm and run your head under the faucet like you're trying to rinse a relaxer out. But the tingle you get when you're using a hair oil (or dare I say it) hair grease that happens to have tea tree oil. Oh yeah Mommy liked! It rinsed cleanly, left a little bit of a tingle while I was adding my conditioner (no it wasn't the Rosemary Mint conditioner).
Just based off of that one time, I will highly recommend this product. It made my scalp feel less tight, and after rinsing my hair was clean but not squeaky.The smell is something that if you don't mind walking around smelling like a spearmint leaf, then it's something you can handle. Remember this is just based off of one use 4 out 5 is the rating. It might change when I actually find the bottle, but hey the "experience" wasn't a waste (exception of losing the bottle DOH!).

ATTENTION NATURALS WHO HAPPEN TO BE MSU ALUMNI

2010-10-06T12:12:00.001-04:00

Nope I'm not referring to Michigan State or Morehead State or any other university that share the same initials. I'm referring to my alma mater Morgan State University in Baltimore, MD. A fellow alumni and entrepreneur, Jennifer of Naturally Me salon, is having a homecoming special.

Believe me if I have to funds I am definitely going to take the trip up there just to have someone else in my hair that actually knows a thing or two about natural hair. If you cannot make it in time for the special, you can still receive a 15% off discout with your first visit. Knowing me I would have something basic like a two strand twist hawk *shrugs*.

What's the hype about all of this hair type talk???

2010-10-05T18:23:00.001-04:00

I've seen that mentioned so many times, and even had to pretty much tell someone it's just about knowing what might work or won't work for your hair. Well this was actually brought up around the Mizani Hair Type system, which I honestly love more than Andre' Walker's version. In my opinion it covers both the LOIS factor and the curl/kink patterns. Here's what they Lor..Mizani has to say about their "natural curl key."

With the support of our world renowned scientists in the United States and France, MIZANI has pioneered the Natural Curl Key™. After years of research and testing, our laboratories defined global hair types based on specific-shape criteria and utilizing a scientific approach to measuring features of human-hair strands, including curve diameter, curl index, number of twists and number of waves. This research resulted in the identification of eight distinct hair types worldwide.

The MIZANI Natural Curl Key™ is an easy-to-use reference guide that allows professional stylists to identify the hair type of any client and determine its key characteristics and special needs, as well as the most beneficial care and service suggestions.

MIZANI, THE PROFESSIONAL AUTHORITY FOR MULTI-TEXTURED HAIR.

According to Mizani 8 curl types ranging from straight with no wave to zig-zag coiled (see how they call that pattern coils right (: ). If I go by their curl system I am a type 5 (very curly) through type 7 (very coiled) throughout my head of coils and kinks. That's with my hair properly moisturized allowed to air dry. Grant it I probably won't buy their products, but it does help to know that there's another curl chart/system floating about and to see their suggestions. Take a look at their site for yourself, and tell me if it helps you out.
http://www.mizani-usa.com/?m=86&rid=300

Type V hair (my hair sporadically throughout my crown and my kitchen, but mainly when it's picked out not dry)

Type VI hair (the texture of my hair in the front just as cottony just thinner)

Type VII hair (this is texture of my hair smack dab in the middle real wiry)

Sunday Brunch at the Charthouse in Old Towne- Oct. 3rd

2010-10-05T18:03:00.002-04:00

Okay I will admit I get frantic when we have a busy schedule especially on a Sunday. I have to first wake up, check my homework in both of my classes just to see if someone brought up something new, and then get myself ready. That's just in the first 45 mins (I'm usually up before dawn to make sure this happens), and that's not including me making sure my AJ and hubs are alert. So, after I figure out what she's going to actually wear (I usually switch outfits because our weather is questionable) I wake her up while she tells me "I'm too tired, leave me alone, or I wanna sleep Mommy." I take her out of her bed semi-awake, wash her face and place her on the potty. I'm still getting told off in toddler speak, when I go to wake up the grizzly bear Mr. T. who will end up growling at me because I woke him up , but whatever we attend a church where the parking is literally first come first serve (at least to get on the main parking lot). We leave out the house in time for us to get to church in time to meet up with the family.
Usually we make it an effort to have brunch at Mimi's in Waldorf (love it!), or part ways to get ready to see the Bears, Redskins or Steelers games over my parents. Well this past Sunday we did a wrench in the plan, and went to the Charthouse in Old Town for my father-in-laws birthday party. First, I was like the Charthouse? Wow she's really making that an expensive one huh. Then I was like "oh...no...Annapolis," and that was because the last time I went to the Charthouse it was the one in Annapolis. Bland, basic and expensive food with slow service, and bad drinks.

So, being the investigative person I am I googled Charthouse Old Town, and saw reviews similar to the one in Annapolis with no rating over 3.5 out of 5 stars. I was like oh gosh I need a mimosa, lol. Well I'm so happy that I went there with an open mind (and low expectations) because we had a wonderful brunch. There was the salad bar....ooooooooh that salad bar!!! Okay so I went around the bar, grant it was small, but it was nicely packed with smoked salmon, caesar salad with anchovies on the side, fruit (oh that beautiful mango, mint, white grape and pineapple salad yum!), and is that what I saw....CAVIAR. Grant it I will not say that I am big fan of the stuff mainly because some have no type of flavor at all. This one had flavor that burst as soon as you placed the water cracker in your mouth. I for one do not like capers with my caviar, but give me some chopped onion and a dallop of sour cream/cream fraiche...SNOB HEAVEN! lol Okay so I will not just go by that salad bar, but for $16 bucks not bad. For the light drinkers, they have mimosas for .99 cents (yes I had one in front of the laws, for that price why not lol), and bloody mary's and fuzzy navels for $2.50.

So, right there we got our monies worth, but if you want the full on brunch it's $25.99 with great portion sizes. My MIL ordered the Crab and Asparagus omelet, which was served with a hollandaise sauce and arrived in front of her light and fluffy packed full of crab. I only know because hubs decided to attack her plate after he devoured his Maryland style Eggs Benedict, which you could see the crab meat falling off of the muffins. My FIL had the french toast, which I thought hubs was going to attack, that was made from brioche, Meyers Rum (I wonder if he read that description lol) glazed bananas and pineapple topped with raspberries and homemade whipped cream. If I didn't associate that with a dessert I would have tried to snag a piece. Now for me I had the seafood quiche. *PAUSE* Nope there's no other seafood in there except crab meat, and I mean crab meat! I was once again brought to heaven trying to eat that quiche with that flaky buttery crust along with the homefries, but that on top of the salad bar and caviar I was stuffed and happy (even had leftovers). AJ of course had her share of everyone's plate with the exception of Popi's because we wanted her to take a nap, and even had her share of the Molten Lava Cake (less lava more molten; more like a warm cake with brownie texture and chocolate sauce on top).

Maybe they do a better brunch than dinner, but I will say this was a great experience. We will be heading back there another time, and this time we'll actually have a couple's outing. For $26 a piece for all of that food, and $1 mimosas we're game! lol I'll give them a 4.5 out 5 mainly because they sat us in a cramped up corner behind another group. The service was great, ambiance was wonderful, and the food was delish!

The Moptop Maven.com | The Premier Source For All Things Creative, Fly & Fashionable: Winterproof Your Hair! The Weather Is Changing. Ha...

2010-10-05T15:13:00.000-04:00

The Moptop Maven.com | The Premier Source For All Things Creative, Fly & Fashionable: Winterproof Your Hair! The Weather Is Changing. Ha...: "Straight or curly for the winter? [source] The cold winter months can wreak havoc on your kinks, coils and curls. Extreme winter weather can..."

Best advice from fellow blogger Moptop Maven. I agree with her when it comes to a glycerin free moisturizer because my hair turns into straight up and down straw be protected or free. I'm on the fence on sulfate free products, but that's because one of my favorite shampoos (Dark & Lovely 3n1) has them. If you are a real stickler for a natural sulfate free shampoo pick up a bottle of Dr. Bronner's Peppermint (ooooooh that feels so good on your scalp if you happen to have a tight scalp issue like I do) and mix it with your favorite carrier oil (olive, sweet almond, coconut you get the picture).

About dang time!

2010-10-04T20:27:00.000-04:00

Being a lady of fluffiness I like to know that those who are supposed to market to us are actually marketing to us, and not frumpy person. I get so frustrated when shopping sometimes because the stores that are supposed to cater to my fashion needs are lacking. I'm on a budget which means I don't have the ability to spend over $100 on an outfit yet alone a shirt (oh believe me there was a time when I only had to worry about paying a bill or two, and everything else was for me to blow). So, when I saw that places like Dots and Old Navy were actually marketing to the fuller figures with actually not having them go for broke, I can honestly say I was a little upset at those who were ahead of the game at one point in time.

can be found at http://loop18.lanebryant.com/home.jsp

Ashley Stewart used to be my spot to get tops in high school because I mean shoot I was a D with broad shoulders, all of those other tops would have me looking like the Hulk. lol I was also a size 16, and even after extreme working out my senior year I went down to a solid 14 (hey what can I say I had curves, muscles and fat lol). My main spot was Lane Bryant because of the variety, and I didn't look like a senior citizen. The years went by, and it looked like LB was losing her spunk. She was turning into my go to spot for sturdy work clothes, and jeans that would adjust to my body without making it hard to breathe. Eventually I moved on to places like Torrid and online retailers like Kyonna (again that was when I only had to pay a cell phone bill or the cable bill lol). Thank goodness LB saw they were lacking in fashion, and that their competition was getting their once loyal customers. I might be late on it, but here is Loop 18 geared to their teen/young adult customers. I hope they are going to keep things current because that just defeats the purpose to not be ahead of the fashion curve for your young customers. Hopefully I can now find a pair of stretch jeans that won't cut off my circulation, or leave me looking like a pop-over. lol I will still shop Dots for simple items like simple shirtdress under $25 (factoring in plus size prices and taxes).

Shame on me...I have committed the ultimate sin of a free thinker/reader

2010-10-04T18:55:00.001-04:00

Forgive me folks for I have a confession to make. Many moons ago...at least back when I was 12 I was browsing through one of my Granny's Essence magazines, and I saw a review about a book. A book that was supposed reach out to every "black" girl, and help them know that there were others who shared in your thoughts. Well I vowed to myself that I would read this book, and then try to convince my mother into finding the play. Fast forward almost 17 years later I still have not picked up the book. I'm ashamed to say I haven't, and I think my mother doesn't even know I haven't read the book yet. The book I'm referring to is "For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When the Rainbow Is Enuf?" I have matriculated at HBCUs that have probably held the play, or book readings and I honestly cannot say I had the time to do leisure reading. I mean I was a History major, so most of the books I wanted to read were pretty much black sociology books, or how women were viewed to society. SMH@ myself Now that I am adult with a child who happens to be female, I feel that I need to at least pick up the book. That way if she happens to ask me about it when she's 12, her and I can actually have a discussion about the book. What really brought this on is that discussion of Tyler Perry remaking the play into a movie. So, many people are being critical about him doing the remake mainly because of his whole Madea/Meet the Browns story lines, when people forget about movies like "The Family that Preys" or "Why Did I get Married" (I didn't see the 2nd one because I cannot afford to spend $20 on matinee tickets not including the refreshments that's almost $50 at the theater). My whole take on it is if Ms. Ntozake Shange gives him her approval sans Madea then shoot why not give the man a chance?
In closing I vow to at least start the book before seeing the movie being as though I'm supposed to have a movie date with my "sisters of Morgan." (well that's what I'm calling us lol)

background information on the play/book
the movie trailer

High School production of the play

5 Myths About Locs

2010-10-04T18:23:00.000-04:00

5 Myths About Locs
I love this article, and am very happy to say that I have had the pleasure to speak with Ansylla on facebook so much she thought I was a professional. Am I interested in attending one of her Intro to Natural Haircare classes? Heck yes!!! It will give me the opportunity to at least learn how to care for my scalp, learn various protective styles, and maybe even earn some pocket change in the making. I mean I still do want to get back into my love of hair care, but this pretty much clears up everything about locs. I have a few people that I encounter on a regular who are just turned off by locs, and I honestly don't understand why. I'm holding out because I'm having fun learning about my hair, and how "hormonal" it can be. lol

No Fat Chicks: Navigating the Dating World as a Fat Girl | Clutch Magazine: The Digital Magazine for the Young, Contemporary Woman of Color

2010-10-04T14:59:00.000-04:00

No Fat Chicks: Navigating the Dating World as a Fat Girl | Clutch Magazine: The Digital Magazine for the Young, Contemporary Woman of Color
Felt this article speaking volumes to me because regardless I had to build my self-confidence in order for men to see I was a good person. Grant it I was working out every morning, which included light cardio and pilates daily. I met my husband and that changed, but hey now I'm on that path to getting myself back in gear. Shoot I'm trying to be healthy for the next Baby T (NO I'm not preggers again! lol), and I want to at least not have a hard pregnancy again. Anyways enjoy the article!

Just sharing my church's Women of Worship Conf.

2010-10-01T16:48:00.001-04:00

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/Women-s-Season-Kicks-off-this-Friday--October-1st-with-Laughter---Join-Us-.html?soid=1101170464947&aid=YxHSLkdIA38

Women's Season at Mt. Ennon

Please join us as we kick-off our Women's Season this Friday, October 1st at 7:00PM in the Fellowship Hall for a "Night of Laughter." This evening of Food, Fun and Fellowship will feature comedian Keitha V. Come out and bring a friend.

Click here to Register TODAY for the "Women of Worship (WOW) - Empowered to Win" conference scheduled for October 9th from 7:00AM to 2:00PM at Mt. Ennon. Please click here to view the Women's Season Video. October 6th is the deadline for conference registration.

Mark your Calendars: Women's Day Choir rehearsals - October 5th, 12th, and 16th; Women's Day is Sunday, October 17th; and a Domestic Violence Workshop will be held on Saturday, October 23rd from 9:00AM -11:00AM.

To register online and get more information about our Real Talk Session for Teens and Girl Power Conference visit the Youth Department Station in the Narthex or contact youthministry@mtennon.org.

Spread the word by forwarding this email to your friends and contacts (by clicking "Forward Email" below).

We look forward to seeing you and invite a friend!

I decided to pass along the information since I happen to love my pastor and my church family. Church is not for everyone, but if you happen to be interested by all means come along!

So this is what daughters want their fathers to talk about

2010-09-30T09:50:00.000-04:00

I will say I didn't want to have this type of talk with my father. He even gets uncomfortable even when I make little jokes with innuendos so much that I have to tell them via my mother lol. Times have changed because last night my father told me to go on AOL's website to look for an article. I was like okay so where should I look? Ol' Man (that's what I call him): I'm on the page about exercises to improve your sex life *pause cringe* Me: Daddy...what?!?! lol Ol' Man: Look down for the article titled "Daughters want their fathers to talk about." Me: *sigh* Okay I'll pass it to him. So I proceeded to click open the link for the article Daughters Say Dads Should Prepare them More, then I chuckled, and read it off to my husband. DH: (growling) WHAT DOES HE WANT ME TO READ?!?!
So, long story short my husband was very uncomfortable with even having to repeat the title. He literally turned orange LOL, and told me okay when she's 14 I'll tell her. I had to break it down to him that then might be too late. Then he growled at me with the "WHAT?!?!," and I had to remind him of the nights I would cry after talking to some of these 12 year old. And how we needed to let our AJ know once she hits puberty that she needs to know about how to control her hormones, and urges. Grant it she's two, but she'll be 10 before we know it. I knew about my menstrual cycle, where babies came from and about sex before I was 8 years old. Honestly I asked questions, and it didn't hurt that I would use my mother's the Birthing stages book all way up to the time of crowning (used it as a coloring book lol).

My question is when is too soon to tell your daughters/sons?

Okay so folks want to know how I wear my hair

2010-09-30T08:52:00.000-04:00

Okay I'm very basic with how I wear my hair, and that is in the basic wash and go puff. As I said before I don't have my Kodak anymore due to a certain little one swinging it around (lol and smh). I am in the market for a new cell phone, and might as well get one with the cam attached.

The cousins (my cousin R&B artist Lei Row, lil AJ and myself) at our grandfather's bday cookout.
We're a fam of natural women, well at least some of us, and you see lil AJ has already started rolling around in the grass. lol I honestly don't let her wear puffs mainly because her hair gets tangled and dried out. The only time that happens is when she goes over the in-laws, and that means I have to do intense treatments to make her hair soft again. I on the other hand don't really have that issue, and I realllllllllly hate combing my hair in the summer lol.
Case in point a pic of me this year at DC Caribbean Carnival, wash and go puff perfect for that hotcuttheairwithaknife humid day (check out the coil-age; nope I didn't do anything except co-wash w/ some oil, and slapped on a headband). Shout out to my homey Crix lol

So, in a nutshell that's how I wear my hair.

Hides ya kids, hide ya wife 'cuz there's gonna be a flood tonight

2010-09-30T08:36:00.000-04:00

Okay so today is the day that Noah's Ark needs to be assembled because it is raining in the DMV...HARD! There's a storm system that was supposed to be Tropical Storm Julia coming from the Bahamas (blows on conch shell), and it's hitting the eastern seaboard. So, for fear of my baby girl turning into Dorothy on her way to school today we're turning it into an all girls day in the house. Mommy's off, enjoying my "high" of getting a 90 on my e-marketing case analysis paper, and I say what the heck let's make today about her and I. We haven't had days like that since July, which is a year in Mommy time lol. Her and I will be 1) deep conditioning and dancing (a good way for me to use that body heat of hers); 2) Princess and the Frog braiding hour; and 3) of course *pause to kiss a boo-boo since she ran into a door* cookies and pizza!!! *pause again to do the Hot Dog Dance* LOL

The result of our last Girls Day in a happy little toddler on her way to her first day of school.

To press or not to press...shrugs

2010-09-25T13:51:00.001-04:00

I'm not a natural "nazi" as some people call them. You know the one's who shun fellow naturals from hiding their hair under wigs, weaves and extensions saying that you're ashamed of your hair. To me having natural hair is all about the versatility of doing whatever you feel like doing. Well this post is inspired from Essence's "blog" posting by Anthony Dickey, which he used to promote his new product line for women trying to maintain the health and texture of their hair. Who Do You Want to Be Today?

I for one didn't find it as informative as I expected, but hey it did help with me wanting to at least add on to it. I would try to trust a stylist, but some of these stylist will singe the living daylights out of your hair since some are not trained to properly handle natural hair. Believe me I have had to tell certain beauticians not to just straight up use the blow dryer, and place me under the dryer to pre-dry (love my high school stylist for teaching me this). This way I don't have the dryer from Hades burning my scalp and my hair. Nothing like feeling like you have flames on your scalp to make you feel insecure about the person handling your hair.

Here are some tools a person would need to press their hair (I personally like the roller set and then running a flat iron over it to smooth the roots). Remember to ALWAYS start with clean hair!:

A good heat protectant...like that should be a given. You could either use this product, its Sally's "cousin" made by GVP, or good ol' coconut oil. Use sparingly!

A good Ionic blow dryer...This prevents you from using half of the heat required to dry the hair, and makes the process quicker eliminating frizz and heat damage. Try air drying the hair in sections instead of applying heat to soaking wet hair, and plus to also cut back on the drying time.

Next you'll need a good brush to help along with the smoothing/straightening process. I pick this one because I lost mine, and now haven't been able to find a replacement at my local Wal-mart and Tarjay (with the exception of looking on Amazon of course).

A ceramic flat iron, that has a controllable heat setting. Nothing like messing up all of that good prep work just for you to singe your hair on an iron that is too hot. My suggestion is to do a check on the iron by using a damp washcloth. If it turns brown, you just might want to turn it down a notch. Better to be safe than sorry.

Hope this little bit of information helps with safely straightening your hair.

R&D's Entrepreneur Spotlight...Meet Michael Avon

2010-09-25T11:46:00.001-04:00

I join a lot of random groups on Facebook, and that mainly comes from me having an interest in the topic. Some people stick to just one group of a different category, but that's just not my style. I like seeing the same topic from different angles and points of view. So, on one day I joined a group on "the Book" geared toward aspiring photographers, models, and make-up artists. That's where I met Mr. Avon, and saw some of his great artwork (photography to me is one of the best mediums out there). Every now and then Mr. Avon and I would talk about current events, his artwork and pretty much like we've been associates (guess that's the Capricorn in us). R&D readers allow me to introduce Michael Avon...

What type of service do you offer?
I do portraits. I also do music recording, and video directing/editing.

How long have you been in your field?
Photography 6years.
Music 17 years.

What drew you into wanting to provide such a service?
After my motorcycle accident and becoming disabled I had to focus on a career.

What most do you enjoy about your service?
Photography...Making people look good.
Music. Making people sound like a star.

What is the expected turn around time?
1 to 2 weeks. I seem to have the fastest turn around.

What is the range of your prices (consulting, milelage, extra fees if they want express services, etc.)?
That can be seen on my website: www.michaelavon.com

Where can you be reached (facebook, website, email or all of the above, please give out links to such sites/ pages)?

www.michaelavon.com
(571) 275-7629
www.facebook.com/michaelavon
michaelavonart@yahoo.com

The Downside of Grad School (at a non-liberal arts school)

2010-09-24T11:32:00.001-04:00

I swear I was so amped to be in graduate school, mainly because I was going into a field opposite of my History background. Now it's like blah there's nothing really fun to go along with these topics that are supposed to get me ready for the "real world." I was browsing other school sites, and got Liberal Arts School envy. Case in point, on College of Norte Dame's list for courses in Contemporary Communication you actually have electives i.e. Culture and Its Philosophical Context. Here's there site for more information, MA in Contemporary Communication. I was literally like this is what the class structure should be similar too because at least you can put this into a real life perspective. So, I continue to look on other schools (grant it I'm not planning on transfering just yet, but I'm "window" shopping haha) not far from me, and Trinity's MA in Communication is actually a good program.
Maybe it's just that I like to have variety in the classroom instead of someone making write about scenarios, with no real topic of discussion in the classroom. Grant it I am in school for MSIT, but dangit I need variety before I scream. Oh well, I guess I'll get that variety when I go on these open university sites, and look up random philosophy lectures on "Sex and Relationships with Animals." (LOL no that lecture does not exist). If you're interested in "attending" these free lectures, you can either http://www.ocw.mit.edu -Click here, or go to openculture.com- free ebooks, lectures, etc..

It's my favorite time of the year...FALL

2010-09-19T14:41:00.000-04:00

What's not to like about Autumn? You get to see the beautiful palette that has been given to us by Mother Nature. I'm one who loves the beautiful weather that she gives us, and believe me one who is not a big fan of humidity and snow Fall is the best way to get the best of both worlds. I will say it can keep the ragweed/hay, but I'll take that over just sweating while breathing lol. It is also time to step my game up when it comes to my wardrobe. Since I have been transitioning to finally get myself out there, it's time to bring out the sweaters for the corporate world (the world I have no choice but to get involved in because hey I need the experience lol), and that also means finding a way to layer my summer dresses with Fall friendly, mild Winter pieces. I am a fan of the sweater trench coat. It can be used over a sleeveless dress, it can be used to wear as an outercoat in general for those office's that refuse to let go of the summer a/c, and it's also fun. Rich fall colors like cranberry, pumpkin orange, and even chocolate take this basic closet object up a notch.
Oh and these boots that are coming out for the Fall from Lane Bryant, I just might have to break down and get me a couple of pair. I love how they range from flats to 3 inch pumps that can go from day to night with no problems. I don't usually go to clubs, but if that means I can wear them to a casual and fun happy hour I'm there.
I'm not a big fan of gray jeans, but I have noticed that some people are getting away with wearing them as "business" slacks instead of casual. I for one am about versatility, and if you can get away with wearing them with a with your suit jacket and dress blouse then so be it. I might venture into the gray denim territory, but mainly on the casual aspect since I don't do jeggings or skin tight jeans anymore (blame it on me not wanting anything tight on my stomach since pregnancy lol).
Are there any fall pieces that you think should be mentioned? Sound off! :-)

I keep my promises...R&D's 1st Entrepreneur Spotlight AM Photography

2010-09-19T14:23:00.004-04:00

Good Happy Football Sunday everyone! Allow me to introduce a dear friend, Arminta McKinney, who I have know for well over 13 years. Her and I even went to rival schools in High School and College (Go ERHS Raiders! and Go MSU Bears! lol). Here is the interview that was conducted a couple of weeks ago, and I apologize for my delay since I'm trying to adjust my schedule with school, work, and my little Princess getting adjusted to school.

What type of service do you offer?

I’m a professional photographer specializing in Wedding’s and Portraiture

How long have you been in your field?

I’ve owned and operated my own business for the past 6 years.

What drew you into wanting to provide such a service?

I’ve always loved photography, but my passion for it begin at the age of 16 on vacation with my family. (First cruise with Joi, lol) sb Joi is our mutual friend and how we met in high school. :-)

What most do you enjoy about your service?

I love to watch peoples faces as they look at this little piece of time in their lives that I’ve captured. That’s priceless to me!

What is the expected turn around time?

One to two weeks for portraits. A little longer for weddings depending on the package.

What is the range of your prices (consulting, milelage, how soon shall they receive the product, etc.)?

I don’t charge for consulting or for mileage in the DMV area. If outside of this area, it can be negotiated.

Where can you be reached (facebook, website, email or all of the above, please give out links to such sites/ pages)?
facebook: http://www.facebook.com/?sk=messages&tid=1465298846039#!/pages/FMA-Photography/59921437929

Twitter: armintam

Website: www.armintamckinney.com

Email: armintamckinney@gmail.com

*Note that these photographs are copyrighted with Mrs. McKinney's logo. Please contact her if you wish to use her work.*
If you are an entrepreneur please do not hesitate to contact me to add your business to our Entrepreneur Spotlight Roster.

I think I might be adding a business spotlight section

2010-08-20T10:55:00.000-04:00

I have for a minute...okay I lie for almost the entire year thought of a plan to promote other bloggers who might actually be online retailers, and then I thought that I needed to stretch out that idea a little more. Due to this current economy I know several people who are starting side businesses in order to have an emergency fund, or to make sure that they can get by without living check to check. So, I feel that in order to help my fellow entrepreneurs I decided to open up the blog for those who are interested in being featured on my blog. We can do a mini interview via e-mail so we can make sure to give the important details to your clientele, especially if you are involved in handcrafts. If you are someone who does artwork/products/apparel/etc. please PLEASE please make sure that you have quality pictures that can be displayed. Please do not post your business information in the comments because 1) I'm trying to keep this business casual, as in I want it to be formal enough that customers will take you seriously, but also laid back, and 2) I also want to make it so each product/service gets a chance to shine. That's just improper etiquette honestly, and hopefully that won't have to be mentioned again. In return for my promotion of your business, please either donate a little change i.e. finders fee, or we can work a discount on your product/service. Sounds fair right?
Okay well.... let the fun begin!!! :-)

I'm in a hair rut

2010-05-31T14:52:00.001-04:00

As much as I love my hair, it just sucks! I have fine dense type 4 hair (coils ans kinks), and darnit yesterday I was trying to find a way to do a braidout to make my hair fluffy and "strong" for yesterday's weather/cookout. I know one thing my hair came out STRAIGHT!!!, which upset me so much I even woke up Mr. T so he could see my pouting face and see my tantrum (lol yeah I got a lil' diva/bratty). He saw my dilemma, said "dag, sorry" and rolled over. Okay I don't blame him because it was 6:15 in the morning, and he was probably like why are you up fuming about your hair. I seriously wanted a puff, and my hair came out silky with waves (like it did when I was relaxed and did hairstyles like that). I told my mother, and all she could do was laugh at me and say "and you think you and your daughter have the same type of hair? ha!" So, I did what I normally do...twist strand twists, this time with flat twist in the front. This will then turn into a twist-out at the end of the week, since that is the only way I can have a successful twist out. My issue is now that we're in hades territory (weather, people talking about the weather...Satan knocked on our door with a box of popsicles talking about it was too hot for him, so you get the picture lol). What can I do besides braids or a wig? I can see me now in the office after walking from my break, snatching my wig off fanning myself with said wig talking about "whew child it's hot and funky out there!" I know last year I cut my hair in the summer with the go to wash'n'go, but now I have some length with major shrinkage so that's not going to work for me.
While we're on the topic of hair, okay so umm this conditioner actually is pretty good. I have the coupon for a $1 off, but still working that bottle and the Rosemary Mint (disappointing because I wanted tingle, but great for detangling). I did also buy QUEEN HELENE Ginseng & Tea Tree Shampoo for All Types of Hair 16oz/473.1ml which didn't have the tingle factor I was looking for (if you've used Fantasia Tea Tree shampoo or Dr. Bronner Peppermint that's what I'm talking about), but didn't leave my hair feeling stripped while still feeling clean. I did go off of the advice of another blogger's suggestion with a good deep conditioner. I bought this conditioner, and it was worth it! I did a test first before adding it to my hair. I used it as a leave-in to see if I do a decent coil out. Left it in until my hair was dry, and boom took out my coils with no issues and had soft boingy hair. I highly recommend this conditioner, and it also has that beloved argan oil. Argan Oil courtesy of Diary of a Hair Obsession
Okay that's it for my rant, but I was really calling out for some hair style suggestions besides locs (won't start doing those until later on this year). If you happen to see someone with a youtube link please don't hesitate to post them in the comments section.

So yeah we're in the house chillin' literally because it is 90 outside, and we don't have our blow up pool ready for this (even though I think Miss A would have to fight with her parents for a spot in the pool lol). Stay cool folks!

Memorial Day Weekend...kick off for the summer

2010-05-28T09:59:00.000-04:00

The official start of summer here, and that means pools are opening, the official family gatherings around the bbq (official because I know that my father has sparked up ol' smokey), and that also means more time to have fun! I even know where I'm currently on assignment, they have already initiated the holiday program where you have your Fridays off. So, with all of that free time are you really going to just sit around the house, or on your patio? I would hope not, and just to make sure you get off of your rump.

Of course since I'm the queen of trying to stretch my money out as far as I can, I did a little digging around for family activities (sorry for the single folks, but I promise to find some activities for you guys...Girl Scouts honor).

The National Harbor is currently having movies out on the harbor. All you need to do is bring a diaper bag (full of the usual stuff, no outside beverages..MUST BRING BUG SPRAY/LOTION WHATEVER). This Sunday they will be showing Coraline. For those who do have cable I know you're like "ugh bugs and crowds" look at it like this you won't be stuck in the house, the kids will have something to do, and all you pretty much have to pay for are parking, the snacks, and Off!. National Harbor Movies on the Potomac If you're on Facebook make sure to add them as a friend.

If you're an artsy family like we are you will love the Corcoran Gallery of Art's Free Summer Saturdays.http://www.corcoran.org/freesummersaturdays/index.php
The first event is for this upcoming Saturday "Sketching in the Atrium" all materials are provided, and you get to sketch a live model. Hopefully they mean a bowl of fruit (shoot they're "live") because if it's a human that means they will be a snazzy stick figure with some obscene body parts (IJS, I'm just saying lol). Check out the link, and then afterwards you and the family can go to the National Mall and have a little picnic. *bring that sunblock and insect repellent something about DC metropolitan area mosquitoes, they bite with a vengeance!

If you haven't noticed so I'm telling you to get outside, get some Vitamin D, stimulate that brain and those bodies. It's a struggle on my part with my family...husband lol, but little one and I try to be active and go out. I'm waiting for neighboring counties to give some information on their upcoming summer activities, and then I will post some more information. Until then check out DC's facebook fan page, Downtown Silver Spring, City of Alexandria, Prince George's County, e-Government page w/ upcoming events Fairfax County Fan page, City of Baltimore, plenty to do around the city and the Inner Harbor, Loudon County , Montgomery County, City of Rockville , and let us not forget the reason why I posted National Harbor fan page. If you really don't feel like dealing with the crowds, just go for a walk in your neighborhood park BUT do NOT forget that bug spray! lol Cannot say I have not warned you enough!

Free Sundaes at Walmart

2010-05-22T09:10:00.001-04:00

Verbatim from their facebook post this morning:

"Come in today for a free sundae at your local Walmart. Get three big scoops of ice cream plus Hershey's Chocolate Syrup, Reddi Whip and fresh strawberries. Find a participating store at: http://tinyurl.com/WalmartSundae"

Might as well make an outing of it I guess, go to the store with the kids (if I were going to Little Gym today would be right after our class). Or you can just probably snatch up the coupons they have, and say to yourself "how dare you just limit me to three scoops of ice cream?!" clutch your pearls in disgust and head towards the ice cream aisle I'm not a big fan of sundaes, but the inner undergrad in me is like "pffffft it's free!" I'll have to make the next promotion because I have to play nurse to Mr. T since he pulled several muscles in his left torso. Might need to bring the little one, and make it journey to our neighborhood drug store. That will tucker her out I know that much. :-D

Enjoy your Saturday folks!

Free or near free Yoga events in DC (dust cloud)

2010-05-16T08:26:00.000-04:00

Okay so today starts the beginning of DC Yoga Week, and I did mean to post it earlier but better later than never right? (insert cheesy smile) Okay so for those who are looking to de-stress, or just to get a bouncy yoga butt here at the spots that are offering free events/classes for under $10. DC Yoga Week

May 16th head on out to the National Mall for free yoga workshops, which include even workshops such as hoop yoga. Think of it like this as circuit training (cardio, stretching, "weight lifting" REPEAT)
Bikram Yoga Capitol Hill The classes held M-TR and Saturday are $5, but on Friday if you just so happen to start your day early, you can drop in for a FREE 6AM class.
Bikram Yoga Dupont Circle I think this one might be a good deal for the college students nearby (if they're doing summer classes/internships). Monday through Friday: 6:15am and 9:30am classes are Free Monday through Friday: 12pm classes are $5...they encourage you to sign up in person instead of online (guessing they want to have a better count).
Bikram Yoga Tentleytown

Sat. 5/15 @ 4pm - FREE
Mon. 5/17 thru Fri. 5/21 @ 9:15am - $5.00
Mon. 5/17 thru Fri. 5/21 @ Noon - FREE
Mon. 5/17 thru Fri. 5/21 @ 5:30pm - $5.00
Sat. 5/22 @ 4pm - FREE

Boundless Yoga $5 classes Saturday May 15, 9 a with James
Sunday May 16, 2:45 p (One Pose at a Time)
Monday May 17, 8 p with James (Yoga for Athletes)
Tuesday May 18, 8 p with Erin Duncan
Wednesday May 19, 7 a with Erin Dowdy
Wednesday May 19, 8 p with Leah
Thursday May 20, 6:15 a with Valerie
Saturday May 22, 9 a with James

There are plenty of others, but due to me not really trying to bore you with a huge post I have included the link to the main page for you to check out the studios closest to you. Ommmmm

Help save a young life!

2010-05-16T07:03:00.001-04:00

So while be up once again like I have to go out for church (I get my church fix via TV, most of the time) I decided to actually pay attention to the Sunday news. Well good thing I did because there was a story about a little boy, 4 years old, who is suffering from a rare form of leukemia (APL). Unfortunately, doctors only have 11 days to be able to find a viable match for bone marrow. In Devan's case finding a match is a difficult task because of his mixed heritage (South Asian and Caucasian). Missed a bone marrow match drive they held yesterday at the Mayflower in NW, and luckily I found his blog site (after searching on the local news site with no luck). So, this is a call out to those who have a similar racial background to help out this little boy. I would post his picture, but I'm not trying to get myself in trouble so I included the link (you can either click on the blog title or on the link following) to the blog his family members put together for him.
http://www.matchdevan.com/

Argh my toddler is driving me nuts!! pulls hair

2010-05-11T16:16:00.001-04:00

Okay this is usually what I sound like when I am in the house, and we have watched every movie in sight, played every game I can remember and walked around the block before I find myself having to stop her from trying to run in the middle of the street (her new version of tag).

So, for other Moms out here, or those playing Mom on the weekend to relieve their friends or family members, I'm going to try to find some activities that are: 1) local, 2) as free as possible, and 3) something that won't make you want to live with ear plugs for the rest of the day (Miley Cyrus *cringe*).

Well my go to is The Little Gym of Clinton, where they have plenty of activities for you and your little one(s). They offer playdates, where if you're a member you only have to pay $10, which includes an hour of running around, and pizza and juice for the little one. Non-members I think you have to pay $20, but shoot hey think about it like this your kid is occupied, you're getting a chance to be active, and within 2 hours they'll either be going to bed or taking a nap. Ohmmmmm Sanity Ohhhmmmmm *closes eyes* The Little Gym of Clinton

I'm still looking for outings in the DC, MD, VA metropolitan areas, and if you guys happen to have any activities that are family friendly in your area please feel free to share.

Lady or Bird which one will you be?

2010-05-11T16:02:00.000-04:00

Okay I have a high school friend who said something about the recent passing of Ms. Lena Horne. Pretty much to sum it up in a nutshell there needs to be a role model for the younger generations out here to know what it's like to be a lady. I then told him that I agreed with him, and that was weird because I just had a conversation with Mr. T (my husband) about how we used to make fun of "birds." Birds is better way to call them than the typical hoodrat, skank, "around the way girl" talk. It's like now being a bird or as I used to call them (still do) cluckers is an in style thing. This right now is a red flag to someone who is raising a future lady, and also for someone who encounters these young ladies be it on the metro or in the schools.

I can say that some of these parents out here must not have either had the proper role model when they were growing up, or despite having numerous role models who showed them the right way thought it was best to go their own way (in Charlie Murphy voice)..WRONG!! These women who knew when to turn the switch on/off for when it was needed to act out of character, and that was NOT in public. I can see my Granny now sitting at the dining room table letting me know exactly if she did not approve of anything I did, not once had I heard her raise her voice. There might be evidence of an attitude brewing, but never did she raise her voice. My mother is the same way, and if she wanted to let you have it nobody else would know except you. These females (cannot actually call them ladies) feel they have to be funky in public. If I am walking down the hallway of a school, I should not 1) hear you down the other end of the hallway unless something is wrong with you physically or mentally, and 2) should not be able to hear your CONVERSATION (it's in CAPS for a reason and I'll leave it like that). I have also noticed that some of the young ones out here that are trying to at least have some type of class are being ridiculed, and called squares because they're not trying to go along with the masses. I'm not talking about you know when we were in school that the kids who were popular were making fun of the no names, I'm talking about even bullying them using reverse psychology making them think their parents are the loons. *scratches forehead*

Okay to end this post, has anyone else noticed that this is becoming a trend? I mean grant it there are some characters out here who are just tacky, but instead of them being put in dark space for no one to notice them there's a huge spotlight saying "look at them, this is how you should act." I like to get some feedback from folks since I want to know if I'm hitting the nail on the head, or if I need to gift wrap myself to looney bin. lol

Been a long time I ...

2010-05-11T15:42:00.000-04:00

So, it's been a very long time since I've been on here. I actually started to even second guess having a blog, and then "BAM!" I started actually getting busy with stuff. I mean for those who know me personally know that I have the attention span of a cocker spaniel (hence me being on facebook posting random things), but never was focused enough to actually say "hmmm I need to hop on the blog once again." Well here I am!! It appears that once my classes...or shall I say class since my Fundamentals of Computer Science class literally had me feeling like Charlie Brown when he missed the football (lol)...Yeah so back to that thought, so once that was over it felt like I was just sitting in dead air. I've been on an assignment pretty much doing what I love, helping children. I cannot get too much into detail about it, but I love this position. Unfortunately it won't be forever, but hey I get to work with some cool people.

Since this blog is about "randomosity" don't expect it there to be a consistent stream of posting because I can feel like writing several post within 30 minutes (there's evidence of that in this blog aka diary), and then I can come back in this case in almost 6 months continuing the chatter.

Well Happy Birthday to MEEEEEEEEE!!!

2009-12-28T08:01:00.000-05:00

I had to give myself a birthday shout out...2 years shy of 30 years old.
Do I feel accomplished? Heck yes! I have my family, in grad school, and very blessed to be able to say I was around to aid in my daughter's development.
Do I feel that I have been humbled? Somewhat...mainly because the economy has really made me really humble myself, and understand how to make sacrifices.
I can honestly feel really lucky to be able to do a year in review since my birthday is so late in the year. This year has reaaaaaaaaaaally made me put together a list of things I want to change for next year.

AVOID THE CROWDS TODAY!!!!

2009-11-27T06:46:00.001-05:00

Go shopping on my Amazon store! It's linked to several stores (Toys'R'Us, Target, etc.), and it's secure. You don't even have to worry about having to go to various stores because it is all right there in one spot, and you can just sit there with your pajamas and feet up on the sofa. You can get Black Friday AND Cyber Monday Deals!
You can even find everything Princess Tiana because you have the power of Amazon right there finding everything for you and the little princesses in your life!
Disney's Princess and the Frog, just a sample of what you can get!
Some come and enjoy the savings!!!

Video Phone (Remix)

2009-11-16T21:05:00.002-05:00

I had to post this so everyone else could see it as well. I already tweeted and fb updated with the link. Now I don't have to stay up past my bedtime lol.

I think I want to interview everyday people

2009-11-16T11:26:00.000-05:00

I mean even though there's supposedly some type of recovery from this recession; there are still some who are trying their best to put their talents, personality and goals out there. I want to conduct interviews with those who just have not been successful with their job search. Who knows when one of your future employers googles your name, they just might be able to see your interview.

Is anyone willing to be the first interview candidate?

Randomosity and Divadom

2012 Relay For Life of Freedom Area, MD | Relay For Life

Life Update

Carnival Baby: Indulgence Mas 2011

Look what I saw today

A Grl Can Mac: Sustainable Hair Care: Lola's Green Hair

I so wish I was in T & T this past week

Get in on the 15% deal at Curl Mart

So is anyone going to the Baltimore Natural Hair Expo?

So nice I had to review them twice...Koils by Nature (KON)

The Quirky D.I.T. is turning 3

In response to Black Girl Singular's post

Aubrey Organic Island Naturals Replenishing Conditioner

So busy these days, but I must post!

Forreal she was funny, but now she's doing too much

SUPERBOWL TIME!!!

What do you plan on doing with your life?

Start your New Year off right with a Free Calendar

What I liked and didn't like in 2010

Hey EVERYONE!!!

Are You Craving: The Crushing Pressure of Body Image

My hair....HATES ME!!!

Yay I have a Facebook Fan Page

I love Swagbucks

Well I passed both of my classes

Umm Santa I just took a peek at my wish list

PUMPKIN CHEESECAKE Shea Butter Cream Rinse / Leave In Conditioner

I need your feedback

Curly Nikki | Natural Hair Styles and Curly Hair Care: Scalp Issues and Natural Hair

Ugh winter just sucks...

Something I saw while on the Saving Queen's Blog

Toys"R"Us Holiday Scavenger Hunt

Ya girl needs some assistance with some research

Crunchy Ends...time to break out the big guns

In Honor of World AIDS Day I am posting where

Kinky Curly Coily Me!: Protective Updo Hair Styles for Work & Leisure

Daily Deal from Starbucks- Day 1

I found a place for Drop Off for Packages of Love and Hope!

Forgive me my fellow curvies

Happy Black Friday folks...deals, deals and more deals

fading rihanna.wmv

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! *community service project included*

Black Friday Deals

Holiday Hair

Goal by 12/28/2010 is to be 20lbs lighter

Daily Deal from Starbucks

I wanna scream tooooooooooo!

It's falinter! (Fall/Winter) And I'm tired of these weaves that look

I'm actually making progress

As promised

Holiday Giveaway

Did somebody say FREE????

For real if you make my butt look like this I'll buy 5 pairs of these jeans!

Chiffon Blouse

Animal Print Kimono Dress

French Terry Dress with Belt

My hair officially did the men on film

What I really feel like doing/not doing today

Product Review on Redken Curl Wise 14

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!!

Runaway....my comments on it

This post is brought to you by the letter C

Whip my Hair by Willow Smith

Today was my first day at WW

ugh why?????

Thanks Beads, Braids and Beyonds

Washington, DC photographers....DC needs you!

I had to share this one

What is your dream?

My poor AJ

Protective Style- Roller Setting

Welp I have to do interview hair....

Essence does all-natural November issue

Product Review on ORS Olive Girls Hair Pudding

Blown!!!

ATTENTION NATURALS WHO HAPPEN TO BE MSU ALUMNI

What's the hype about all of this hair type talk???

Sunday Brunch at the Charthouse in Old Towne- Oct. 3rd

The Moptop Maven.com | The Premier Source For All Things Creative, Fly & Fashionable: Winterproof Your Hair! The Weather Is Changing. Ha...

About dang time!

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! community service project included

To press or not to press...shrugs

Argh my toddler is driving me nuts!! pulls hair