E-Salon-Custom Formulated Hair Color

Breakthrough Hair Color System Your Salon Doesn’t Want You to Know About!They may be a young company in the hair care arena, but eSalon.com is already ruffling the feathers of stylists across the country.

Professional haircolor, customized just for you, delivered to your home eSalon has one mission–to deliver affordable custom haircolor to your door. We’ve built an expert team and state-of-the-art color lab dedicated to making it easy, convenient and inexpensive for you to have the beautiful hair color you desire. Every time.

Customized color by experts based on your hair profile The process starts with our online hair profile. It is a custom built set of questions formulated by our colorists based on their years of expertise working at salons in Beverly Hills, New York and Paris. In just a few minutes, you will complete the online hair profile providing us all the information needed to prepare a formula that is matched to your hair characteristics. Whether you’re looking to completely disguise your roots or go for a new look altogether, eSalon will create the right formulation just for you.

Each order is individually formulated, bottled, and shipped from our Los Angeles color lab within two business days of your order. With eSalon you can achieve your envisioned haircolor at minimal cost and maximum convenience.

Quality product
In addition to being customized for you, eSalon uses the same high quality dyes mixed in high-end salons. This means superior gray coverage and rich, vibrant haircolor. We offer permanent and demi-permanent (ammonia free) haircolor, and our dyes include ingredients such as vitamin E, B5 and aloe vera to help condition your hair. We make sure your hair looks great and stays healthy.

Ease of Use
Unlike the one-size-fits-all instructions included with retail hair dyes, your eSalon package includes individualized instructions specific to your coloring process. In short, we remove any guess work out of coloring your hair at home. Plus, unlike many salons we’re easy to contact if you have any questions.

Convenience Apart from the obvious benefit that you never have to leave your house (not even to purchase the product), we also maintain your profile in our system along with any changes you make along the way so that each time you reorder or alter your previous color, we’ll work with what you already have instead of starting from scratch.

Affordability As low as $19.95 per application, our price is competitive with retail store hair dyes, yet you get a customized coloring formula, industry-grade dye, and the haircoloring expertise found only in salons. Finally, you can get professional quality, customized haircolor without breaking the bank and without the hassle of making appointments at the salon.

Want to learn more?
The best way to understand eSalon’s service is to give it a try. And with their newest offer, eSalon is making it easy for first time customers. New clients can get a complete personal profile and color kit for just $4.95 s&h, plus a full money-back guarantee.

Click here for more information and to get in on this special offer.

The Lupie Chick: Recipe: Blueberry Stuffed French Toast

The Lupie Chick: Recipe: Blueberry Stuffed French Toast: Blueberry Stuffed French Toast INGREDIENTS 1 loaf Panera Bread Cinnamon Raisin Bread 8 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese spread, at room...

Roll N Tuck *Natural Up-Do Hair Style*

This hairstyle is called the "Roll N Tuck". I've seen similar hairstyle(s) on You Tube, and fell in love with all of them. Like it? Here's how you re-create it!

Tools Needed
*Freshly washed and conditioned hair*
* Few bobby pins*
* hands/fingers* (I would apply a small amount of oil or shea butter to my hands- I never manipulate/style my hair with "dry" hands)

How to create:
*Section off the hair * ( with your fingers-parts or sections do not have to be perfectly even)
*Roll and tuck the hair*
*Secure with bobby pins*
**optional: apply 2-3 flat twist(s), or cornrows on the side(s)**

Note:
You can also achieve this hairstyle if you have (micro) braids, (micro or mini) twists, and Locs.
This hairstyle requires No heat – which is always a great thing. If you’d like your hair to be straighter or more stretched you can just put in a few quick braids the day before.

Disclaimer: I do not own nor do I claim any rights to the photograph in this post. The photograph is merly for illustration purposes of the hair style.

ADMIT IT- HAVE YOU BEEN USING GREASE?

Ok, beauties admit it NOW or forever hold your peace- have you been using hair grease, Vaseline, petroleum, lanolin, or mineral oil on your hair?? huh? I'll wait... *tapping fingers, and WAITING*





Lately, Ive been coming across blogs where naturals are admitting to using one of the above mentioned products. A few of the hair guru's (i.e. Curly Nikki) admitted that she has greased her hair. She says that she did not use it on her scalp, just the "hair". For her, she states that it was a great sealant, perfect for doing dry twist outs, product washed out easily, and her hair stayed moisturized for 4 days. She's even hinted at a grease giveaway " Now who's ready for a Blue Majic, Dax, and Soul Glo giveaway?!?!?!?"


I grew up with my mother using hair grease, Vaseline ( not the name brand Vaseline-but petroleum jelly..lol..lol..) and water on my hair ( do you remember putting grease/Vaseline & water on your edges to slick them down?). I've always had healthy well maintained hair. My mother's hair routine for me was a bi-weekly wash, condition, grease( hair and scalp) and two plaits ( not braids- PLAITS!). I always slept with a scarf ( it was a cotton scarf-didn't know anything about silk back then). I only got my hair blow dried and straightened for Easter and picture day at school. We never used sponge rollers, my mother would roll my hair with strips of brown paper bag ( old school chicas KNOW what I'm talking about!).

I don't recall ( back in the day) having dry hair, or any hair issues ( breakage, shedding, or damaged hair). Now that I think about it, mommy didn't spend any money on hair products, barrettes, pony tail holders, or anything "fancy". She would'nt buy rollers- we had to use brown paper bags ( she got FREE from the vegetable stand). I was a pro at rolling hair with brown paper bag- and guess what- if you used too much grease.. that brown paper would soak it up :)

Once I learned how to care for my hair naturally it was drilled into my head ( along with yours) to stay away from such products or any products containing mineral oil, lanolin, and petroleum. I became obsessed with reading product labels and ditching everything in sight that contain the "forbidden" ingredients. Think of Joan Crawford and the wire hangers.. that was ME with mineral oil * in my Joan Crawford voice* "NOOOOOOO MINERAL OIL"

Here's what I say- DO WHAT WORKS FOR YOU! I don't believe in spending alot of money on over priced products, I don't believe the hype of all these miracle products that will make you hair grow, stop shedding, or breaking.

I do believe in listening to your hair, and knowing what your hair needs to flourish. Everyone is different, what works for me, may or may not be your saving grace. Its my belief that all natural products are best for my hair and mini me. We will Not be greasing in the Dugar household. We are forever #TeamNoGrease and forever fans of shea butter, coconut oil, olive oil, and canola oil.

Have you been greasing your hair? Do tell ( I wont stone you)

Moisturizing and Sealing Natural Hair

Moisturizing and sealing natural hair is one area that new naturals often find difficulty in, when they’re initially learning how to care for natural hair. Moisturizing and sealing are two basic steps that can be done in a matter of minutes.

The first thing that you need to know is what should be used to accomplish both parts of the process. Moisturizing should be done with water alone, or water followed by a water based leave in conditioner. Sealing is done with natural oils, to prevent moisture from leaving the hair. Natural oils are not moisturizers because most natural oils will not penetrate the hair shaft.

Below are the steps I take to seal and moisturize my hair:


Step 1Find A Water Based Leave In Conditioner
You want to be sure to stay away from products that contain petroleum, mineral oil, lanolin oil, and alcohol because these ingredients are notorious for blocking moisture from entering the hair strand which causes hair to eventually break. Look for natural ingredients like glycerin and natural oils, with water being one of the first three ingredients listed. I make my own leave in.

Here's the recipe:


Aloe Vera Juice
Rosemary Essential Oil
Lemongrass Essential Oil
Jojoba Oil
Vegetable Glycerin (optional)
Distilled Water
Spray bottle

Fill up 50% of the bottle with aloe vera juice, leaving space to add the essential oils, jojoba, glycerin, and water. Next add 10 drops of rosemary and lemongrass essential oil and three to five drops of jojoba oil. Add a small amount of vegetable glycerin ( 1-2 cap full). Lastly fill the rest of the bottle with distilled water and shake up

Aloe Vera moisturizes the hair and keeps it soft. It is packed with vitamin B12, vitamin C, amino acids, minerals, and salicylic acid. It has been used for general hair health, hair growth, and also as a hair shampoo and conditioner.


Rosemary Essential Oil stimulates hair follicles, therefore increasing hair strength, hair growth, and for dry and flaky scalps. It has also been used as a remedy for mental fatigue.


Lemongrass Essential Oil stimulates hair follicles and also adds a refreshing citrus fragrance to the leave-in conditioner. It has anti-bacterial properties and is calming and soothing to the body.


Jojoba Oil is the closest oil to skin’s sebum. Therefore, is extremely healing and moisturizing for the hair. It is a non-greasy oil absorbing immediately into the hair. This will help with hair frizz and dryness.



Vegetable Glycerin is known for being a humectant. It is an amazing ingredient to add when air drying hair. It is amazing for curly hair and really dry hair. It should be used very sparingly so that it doesn’t create a sticky film.



Some commercial Leave in conditioners that are worth a try are:
Kinky Curly Knot Today and  Giovanni Direct Leave In

Step 2Choose A Natural Oil
Natural, unrefined, and virgin oils work best. Extra virgin olive oil and unrefined coconut oil not only seal moisture into the hair but it improves the health of hair as well. Jojoba oil is a good sealant for people who are acne prone since it's lighter and less likely to clog pores. ( I use a mix of coconut oil, Amla oil, grapeseed oil, and castor oil)



Step 3Moisturize Hair
Starting with wet hair, Split hair into 4 sections. take a quarter amount of leave in , spread it between your hands, and distribute throughout your hair ensuring that you saturate all the strands. Use more for longer and thicker hair and less for shorter and thinner. Be sure to pay extra attention to the ends of your hair since they are prone to drying and breaking.

Step 4Seal In Moisture With Your Oil * optimal on (co)wash day(s)*working from the same 4 sections. Spread a dime size amount of oil in between hands and distribute to each section. Avoid applying more than a dime size amount of oil to each section or hair may become too oily.


Continue the steps until all sections are completed.


Step 5

Style as normal. When I'm not in a protective style, my styling choices are twist outs, braid outs, and buns.

Removing Lint From Loc's

Few things look worse in locked hair than lint. What causes lint to build up in locs? It could be a particular product causes your hair to absorb lint like a sponge. Pillow fibers might cling to your locs at night. Your towel lint might be having a party in your hair. Whatever the cause, you want to get rid of it.

Commercial products that remove lint

A good clarifying shampoo might be all your hair needs to remove lint build-up, especially if you don’t have much to contend with. Here are a few products that get locked hair lint-free:

Aubrey Organics Green Tea Clarifying Shampoo ( from website)

This fast-acting clarifying shampoo deep-cleanses with just one application and rinses clean to leave hair shiny, bouncy and full. Herbal extracts deliver beneficial nutrients quickly and reduce drying time for fast and easy styling.

Bo Beam Lemon Drop Oily Hair/Locs Shampoo Bar ( from website)

The Lemon Drop is made with an aloe base and is packed with essential oils geared toward soothing oily hair and scalp - lemongrass, lavender, cedarwood, and aloe. It can be used as a clarifier to get rid of product build-up. It can also be used for teen and mature locs.

Carols Daughter Rosemary Mint Purifying Shampoo ( from website)

Invigorates and refreshes the scalp with cooling Peppermint Oil
Deeply cleanses and removes product build-up and daily toxins, without stripping away essential moisture
Restores your hair to its original shiny, healthy state.
Has Rosemary Extract to deliver antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits to hair and scalp. Has Moisturizing Marine Extracts (Algae, Carrageenan, Spirulina and Seaweed) to provide hair and scalp with nourishing hydration
Helps to smooth, soften and boost shine.

Natural remedies to get rid of lint

Apple cider vinegar rinse – An apple cider vinegar rinse works as a natural hair cleanser by gently removing build-up. The rinse can produce a shine because apple cider vinegar naturally closes cuticle scales found on the hair shaft’s surface.

Create an apple cider vinegar rinse by combining:
* 1 cup distilled water
* 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar

*Optional* add 5 drops of lavender, rosemary, lemon , sage or rose essential oil to the basic vinegar rinse recipe.

Pour the mixture over your hair as a final rinse after you shampoo. You might have to do an apple cider vinegar rinse a couple times before you see results.

Baking Soda – This is a powerful way to remove lint from your locs. Baking soda works as a clarifier, leaving your locs squeaky clean.

Make a baking soda clarifier by combining:
· 1 tablespoon baking soda
· 1 cup water
Pour the mixture over your hair, squeezing it into the hair and focusing on troublesome locs. Massage it into the hair for 1 to 2 minutes and rinse thoroughly.

Bentonite Clay – No, it will not build up in your locs. Just be sure to rinse thoroughly. Bentonite clay pulls chemicals and metals out from our bodies, like a magnet. When applied to locs, bentonite clay pulls dirt, lint and product build-up from our hair. When you apply bentonite clay, be sure your locs are freshly shampooed.

Mix equal parts of the following in a non-metal bowl with a non-metal spoon: (If you use metal, you will activate or de-activate certain properties in the bentonite clay)
· Bentonite clay
· Apple cider vinegar
It is normal for the mixture to sizzle. If you think the mix is too thick for you, use a few drops of lukewarm water. The consistency will be creamy. Place the clay directly on your locs, and leave it there for about 20 to 30 minutes. Rinse your hair thoroughly. The lint will come to the surface and easily be removed.

Tweezers – Use tweezers to perform surgery on your locs. Carefully remove lint from wet locs with the tweezers. (Some prefer using a pin or a straightened paper clip). Make sure you actually have lint to begin with! If the stuff on your locs disappears when wet, you have build-up. If the fuzz remains, it’s lint. Go for the tweezers. Be careful you don’t thin your loc out. If it becomes too weak, you will have to cut or repair the loc(s).

How you can prevent lint from getting trapped in your locs
· Wear a scarf at night, when cleaning or doing other chores that might get your hair into close contact with cling-happy fabrics.

· Use dark-colored towels when drying your locs. Light colored towels can shed lint into your locs.

· Avoid products with petroleum in them, hair butters and creamy conditioners because these substances attract lint and other unwanted residue on your locs.

· Stay away from hats and scarves that shed, like angora or wool.

· Check your locs from time to time for lint. It is easier to remove lint off the surface of your locs, rather than having to remove embedded lint.

Product Junkies- Clutch ya Wallets!!!!!!!!

Are there products out there you've wanted to try, but you cant bring yourself to pay the high price tag? Do you have "stuff" cluttering up your cabinet? Are you a product junkie, that will try anything-at least once? If so, you need to check out Lolas Green Hair - #1 spot for purchasing or selling gently used hair care products. This INGENIOUS online listing service is a one-stop shop to purchase new, nearly new and gently used hair care products, at a fraction of the cost. There is no haggling or bidding, and details such as shipping costs and how much of the product is left are clearly stated in the description. I saw a jar of Miss Jessie's buttercreme for $4.50 ( 75% of a 2oz jar- THAT'S A DEAL!!!!!)

Here's how it works

Sellers of new, nearly new, or gently used products register on the site, and then list the product, pictures, and the price. You will be notified of potential buyers via email, you then request payment, and ship product(s). Use the social media icons to Tweet, post to Facebook, and use other channels to spread the word about what you’re selling!

Buyers click on ad your interested in, complete the form to contact the seller, and submit payment through Paypal to complete purchase, then await your product(s) to arrive in the mail.

LolasGreenHair.com saves some green, and keeps our environment a bit greener to boot.”Go check it out, you may find some goodies you've wanting to try. Or maybe this is your opportunity to clear out that shelf of products that aren't being used.

Today is my Birthday- I'm Fierce, Fabalous, and FORTY!!!!

Today I turned the big 4-0- yep- I'm 40 years old today. I must say that I'm proud of who I'am and my accomplishments. As with alot of people life and situations crept in and took me on a different path than the one I had set out for myself. I've been told a hundred times, your path and destiny has been pre determined-EVERYTHING that has happen in my life WAS SUPPOSE TO HAPPEN! ( including having Lupus).

I have 3 beautiful children, a beautiful grandson, husband and family that love me FAULTS AND ALL ( praise and testimony moment). I have a loving mother that blessed me with life and made many sacrifices to bring me to where I'am today.



The days leading up to my birthday I had time to reflect. I've noticed that I've become a "creature if habit". Which is neccessary in some suitations, but not every suitation.


I had several conversations about some of the things I'd dreamt of doing. My homeboy ( Malik) told me " you're never too old to live out your dreams". The only thing or person stopping you from living out your dreams are Y-O-U! I knew that, but hearing that, at that moment hit home. It was my " ah-ha" moment.

Ya'll know I posses alot of talent and sometimes my plate runneth over because I'm always doing something..lol..lol.. After giving it much thought- I realize that I had ALOT of things I wanted to do. Some simple, others more complex. Here is what I came up with, in no particular order of importance:

1. Bring awareness to Lupus
2. Launch my lupus foundation
3. Sponsor a awareness walk for Lupus
4. Make a family recipe book
5. Write more personal letters and create personalized cards
6. Establish a holiday tradition (Thanksgiving, Christmas, 4th of July) with my grandson

7. Learn to crochet
8. Learn a foreign language ( specifically Spanish)
9. Wear more skirts and dresses
10. Take a cruise
11. Take a once in a lifetime trip. (Africa, Italy, Spain, Rome, or Greece)
12. Grow a veggie garden (those who know me will attest that this will be a very big challenge. I have black thumbs).
13. Have 12 hours of good sleep.
14. Read a whole book – one a month for a year.
15. Go to a cooking class with the hubby
16. Eat vegetarian for a week.
17. Tell the people who mean the most to me that I love them more often.
18. Renew my wedding vows in a destination ceremony
19. Find the perfect little black dress
20. Get back to a healthier weight (under 200 lbs) and fitness level (strength building).
21. Wear a bikini – and look fantabulous in it!
22. Have a “true” emergency fund.
23. Declutter and live a simpler lifestyle.

24. Bi-Monthly massages and facials ( more pamper me days)
25. Take my multivitamins every single day without missing (at least for a month).

26. Run (rather, walk/jog) a (5K) marathon
27. Start using coupons more
28. Have a thriving side hustle that will move me towards my goal of financial independence.
29. Go to New York City and be a complete tourist
30. Get a Mac (computer)
31. Take more walks
32. Learn to bake
33. Watch less TV
34. Attend Essence Music Festival
35. Pay off my car(s) ( and don’t buy another one)
36. Sing a karaoke song ( alone)
37. Get a bikini wax
38. Go on a no soda challenge for a month
39. Learn how to calm down
40. Visit a new east coast state
41. Attend a runway fashion show at Fashion Week
42. Try something new at my favorite restaurant
43. Go fishing ( catch, cook, and eat the fish)
44. Go to a concert ( the one and only concert I ever attend was New Edition – I was 13 yrs old)
45. Wardrobe haul ( only keep clothing and shoes that I actually wear)
46. Take a pole dance class
47. Learn how to mediate
48. Do a burlesque photo shoot
49. Trace my family roots ( ancestry)
50. Reconnect with my faith (attend church regularly)

“Whatever the mind can conceive and believe, it can achieve”

I considered while writing my list is that each task/goal should be SMART. You've probably heard that acronym before - it stands for Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Timed.

Specific is what it is - you must be able to say exactly what you want to do. For instance, with #8, I didn't just say that I want to learn a foreign language; I specifically said that I want to learn Spanish

Measurable means that the goal must be something that can be quantified or tracked. Some of my goals are rather vague - for example #50 - I said that I want to go to church "regularly". What is regularly? That won't mean the same thing to everyone. However, I couldn't go much further with that. I didn't want to say every Sunday or every Wednesday because I don't know when I will go.

If something is attainable, that means that it's possible. All of the things I've listed here are within reach. I may have to work hard to make them happen, but they are all within reach.

Relevancy is subjective. What's relevant to me may not be relevant to you. However, all of my goals are VERY relevant to me.

Timed goals are set into a time box of sorts. All of these goals, I want to achieve by the age of 45. There's my time box.

I am looking at turning 40 as my new lease on life. I'm a little bit older, a whole lot wiser and most definitely, sexier!!! Does this mean that I am officially a "grown-up?" LOL!!!

Life Really Does Begin at 40!

So, what's on your list? How are you holding yourself accountable?

Eat This... For Healthy Hair

It's one of the maddening ironies of aging: Hair gets thinner where we want it -- on our heads -- and starts sprouting up in places we don't.

Good trimmers and tweezers are all you need for the latter. But for the former? Try these healthy hair foods from Drs. Roizen and Oz (see below) -- they can help make your locks look more like they did in your 20s.

Healthy-Hair Diet

Eat more salmon. Omega-3 rich foods like salmon and sardines help seal in shine. Distilled fish oils or DHA supplements will work, too. Need something new to do with salmon? Try this quick and easy Blackened Salmon Sandwich from EatingWell.

Be a bran lover. Bran is rich in vitamin B, which may slow hair loss and promote hair growth. Other B-rich victuals include beans, peas, carrots, cauliflower, soybeans, nuts, and eggs. Make bran-infused pancakes a snap with this Healthy Pancake Mix.

Say yes to avocados. Avocados and avocado oil may prevent some funky stuff that kills hair follicles -- dihydrotestosterone (DHT) -- from getting where it needs to go. Watch this video for shortcuts on cutting, peeling, and seeding an avocado.

Say no to animal fat -- and red meat -- if you're losing hair. They can lead to more DHT production and hair-follicle damage. Make meat-free gravy for your mashers with this delicious Portobello Gravy recipe.

Stock up on green tea. Brew a strong pot, cool it, then give your head a rinse to help kill off dandruff-causing fungus. Incidentally, if you drink green tea, the caffeine in it may help slow balding, too. Try this simple Green Tea-Fruit Smoothie for breakfast -- another fabulous EatingWell recipe.

Article courtesy of Real Age

Disclaimer: The information included on this blog is for educational purposes only. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. The reader should always consult his or her healthcare provider to determine the appropriateness of the information for their own situation or if they have any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment plan.

Loc it up Thursday

Hairstyles are courtesy of

Twist & Curves
Distinctive Afrocentric Braids, Locs, Twists, & Natural Hair Designs
For The Man/Woman Who Dares to be Different!
Hartford, CT
860-523-4844

Twist & Curves

Twist & Curves

Hairstyles are courtesy of Twists and Curves
Join them on Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/twistandcurves

These images may not be reproduced, copied, transmitted or manipulated without the written permission of Mz. Sixx or Twist & Curves. Use of any image as the basis for another photographic concept or illustration (digital, artist rendering or alike) is a violation of the United States and International Copyright laws. All images are copyrighted © 2011 – Au’Naturale by Mz. Sixx.

FREE copy of the Hair Growth Survival Guide

Get your copy of the Hair Growth Survival Guide – The Do’s and Don’ts of Growing Healthy Hair

It can really be a challenge growing your hair especially with all the elements we have to deal with. In the winter you have to deal with the hot, dry indoor air that sometimes makes your hair dry and brittle...

Then there are the hot summer months that dry out your hair, weigh your hair down with the humid air that adds moisture and extra frizz.


Then comes your styling products. Sometimes you don't use the right products that are right for your hair type.


What about your diet? Are you eating the right foods?


Did you know that almonds, raisons and oranges are super foods that can help you grow longer hair? Simply add these simple snack foods to your diet on a regular basis for longer hair. But these aren't the only foods that will help grow your hair.


THERE ARE MORE! ...

If you want to know:
What foods will grow your hair longer
Shampoos you should never use
The food in your diet that could affect your hair growth
Essential ingredients for your hair
The #1 Moisturizer that's all-natural!
... + so much more! You'll be amazed!
This book is completely FREE of charge!

Your free e-book is ready for download. Grab it now!

http://www.curlyhairsalon.com/support-files/hairgrowthsurvivalguide.pdf.

This E-book is courtesy of Curly Hair Salon

[CLOSED]Karite Hair Product Review and GIVEAWAY!!!!!!!!

Thank you to all of you that entereded into the Karite Hair Product give away.The winners were chosen at random on Spetember 29, 2011. The winners of the Nourshing shampoo and reconstructiuve conditioner set are:

1. All Things Cute & Girly
2. Elizabeth @ Different Kinds of Curls
3. Pamela H
4. Amy V
5. Precious @ Precious Curls

Stay tuned for future giveaways and product reviews!

I received the Nourishing Shampoo, Reconstructive Conditioner, & Leave-In Conditioner 8 weeks ago. This review has taken a little time to complete because I typically wash my hair every 6 weeks ( co wash in between ). For this review I used the shampoo to wash my hair 3x's, the conditioner 8 times ( co wash), the leave in multiple times per week. I wanted to be as objective as possible and have a couple of washing before providing my review. I love these products! Immediately after washing my hair ( I did not pre poo like I normally would when using commerical shampoo's), my hair was left soft ( not stripped or dry like it normally feels after using commerical shampoo's). I noticed less frizz (with my wash n go's); my scalp didn't feel tight or itchy( another issue I have when I used commerical shampoo's). The conditioner provided the right amount of slip to make detangling a breeze, and it was easy to coat the strands (a little goes a long way!).

Picture-3 strand Twist Out

The light fragrance was a plus and the conditioner + leave in during my co wash sessions left my curls feeling moisturized, very manageable and bouncy. Using this product when I did 3 strand twist outs left my hair with body and assisted with that "Cotton Candy Hair" look. Read the ingredient label(s) if you are particular about the bad stuff ( silicone's, mineral oil, etc), these products may not be for you. My hair loved the products and i will keep a supply on hand. You can purchase the products at walgreens, walgreens.com, or at nuNATT.com

Disclosure: Complimentary products was provided for this review, however, all opinion(s) expressed are my own. I was not compensated in any other way.

5 lucky followers

Will win a Karite Nourishing Shampoo & Conditioner Prize Pack!!!!

1. This giveaway is open until October 1, 2011 at 11:59 pm EST to U.S residents, 18 years old or older.

2. Only ONE comment per follower (comments will appear after I approve them)

3. “follow” this blog (on the sidebar to your right)* or via Network blogs

4. leave a comment on this blog post answering the following question: " What do you love most about being natural?"

5. Include how you’d like to be contacted if you win (leave your e-mail, twitter ID, etc)

Optional
* You will get an extra 2 entries if you are a subscriber of my YouTube channel (leave your username; I will check subscriptions before putting in another entry)

* You will get 2 extra entries if you follow me on Twitter @AuNaturaleDC

For your convenience, here is a guide for an entry: If it’s easier, you may copy/paste this as your comment and fill in the blanks.

1) I'm a resident of the U.S.
2) I followed this blog; I used ____ name to follow
3) What I love most about being natural is?/ I love being natural because_______
4) If I win, please contact me via ____

Optional:
please include 2 extra entries for me b/c I subscribe to your YT channel. My user name on YouTube is ______

Please include 2 extra entries for me b/c I follow you on Twitter. My Twitter name ______

The winner will be picked randomly on October 2, 2011. Good Luck!!!!!!!!!

Click Here to Read the Prize/Giveaway Disclaimer

Chic- Fil- A: Present Daddy Daughter Date Night

This story comes to us from Hannah Wagner

The 48 Chick-fil-A restaurants in the D.C. Area will host a “Date Night” for fathers and daughters on Monday, Oct. 10 from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. During this special evening, fathers and daughters are encouraged to spend time together while they enjoy dinner, great conversation and several special activities.

Seats are filling fast and you must register to enjoy that special evening with your daughter. There are 4:30, 5:30, 6:30, and 7:30 reservations available with 30 or more slots at each time.

To reserve your table, please fill out the registration form here. The event is free to sign up but you must hurry before the seats are gone!

Customers can also visit http://www.daddydaughterdate.com/ to make a reservation. ** Those living in Howard County, Anne Arundel County-MD- click Baltimore tab for your locations)**

Each restaurant will celebrate the evening its own way, with some providing a red carpet arrival, table service, live music, photography and carriage rides.


Every Daddy-Daughter pair will also receive a tray liner with questions and topics to get the conversation started, and a take-home booklet called “Continuing the Conversation” that provides ideas for future dates and questions that both dads and daughters can ask each other.

“One of Chick-fil-A’s goals is to promote community connections and enrich the lives of everyone we come in contact with,” said Bryan Ritter, Chick-fil-A franchise Operator . “We understand the importance of father-daughter relationships and want to encourage dads to take a break from busy schedules, enjoy their daughter’s company over a meal and have fun!”

I AM TROY DAVIS!

Despite widespread doubt, the Georgia Board of Pardons and Paroles upheld the decision to execute Troy Davis this Wednesday.Still, Troy has refused to have a "last meal." He has faith his life will be spared.In the past, his tremendous faith has been rewarded. The last time Troy faced execution, in 2008, the warden brought in what was to be his last meal. But Troy refused to eat. Looking the prison staff in their eyes, he explained this meal would not be his last. He was vindicated when he received a last minute stay.

Guards still remember this as a haunting moment, one rooted in Troy's deep faith. Still, there is every sign the state of Georgia intends to execute Troy this time--despite calls for them to stop by everyone from the former head of the FBI, William Sessions, to former US President Jimmy Carter. Troy has prepared himself, and to the extent anyone can, his family, for either outcome. As he has said many times "They can take my body but not my spirit, because I have given my spirit to God."Thus, even as we continue to call on the Board of Pardons and Parole and Savannah District Attorney Larry Chisolm to reconsider, we must be prepared for either outcome too.

Please stand with Troy and his family. Join NAACP activists around the country in an evening of solidarity, prayer, and fasting on Wednesday, September 21st.Ask friends to meet up. Ask your family to fast Wednesday evening in solidarity with Troy's family and use the dinner hour to talk.
Ask your faith community, if they already have a Wednesday night fellowship planned, to make time for conversation about Troy's scheduled execution. However you do it, please mark the 7 o'clock hour on that evening--the time of Troy's scheduled execution--as a moment to reflect on Troy's experience, to offer prayers for his family and that of Officer MacPhail, and to talk about what we can each do to ensure our nation never does this again.

This is a moment to rededicate ourselves to the struggle to end the death penalty and otherwise fix our nation's broken justice system.To honor Troy's courage, and rededicate ourselves to the cause of justice in America, NAACP activists are asked to fast Wednesday evening. While moments like this test the limits of our understanding, we do know the world will remember Troy's name, and the movement against the death penalty will grow. People who thought they supported capital punishment yesterday will realize they cannot today. Because people who thought they could stand on the sidelines will realize they no longer can.

As the scorn of the world grows and the doubts within our nation grow as well, we will increasingly realize this barbarous tradition--practiced by virtually no other western nation--is inconsistent with our self image as a fair and freedom-loving society. should the execution actually occur this time, Troy's life and the fight to save it will not have been in vain - we will move forward with more allies and an even wider consensus about the urgency of our cause. Please join your fellow activists Wednesday for an evening of prayers, fasting, reflection, and recommitment to the struggle for justice.With prayers and determination,Benjamin Todd Jealous, President and CEO, NAACP. Click here to read more about Troy Davis.

This article courtesy of BSN ( Black Star News)

“The struggle for justice doesn’t end with me. This struggle is for all the Troy Davises who came before me and all the ones who will come after me.

I’m in good spirits and I’m prayerful and at peace.

But I will not stop fighting until I’ve taken my last breath.”

Troy Davis

Mini Me: Natural Hair Model-H Street Festival

My mini me was a model in the H Street Festival Day held Sat in Washington DC. She was representing Coco Lea Crochet Designs ( Designer, Annette Williams) and Sophizticated Ladyz Hair Salon ( Celebrity Stylist, Charlene Brown 1010 H Street, NE-2nd Level, Washington DC). The H Street Festival is an annual street festival designed to showcase the unique qualities of this vibrant Washington, DC community. The event is a part of the revitalization strategy to bring attention to the developing arts and entertainment district at the eastern end of the H Street NE corridor. This year’s festival includes more than 30 musical and dance performances, an art car exhibit, two live performance stages that are produced by the Rock & Roll Hotel, a fashion show preview of DC Fashion Week, face painting, rock climbing, basketball games, carnival games, free popcorn, cotton candy, and dog tag making, a fully-loaded Hummer display, luxury car displays, free health screenings, crafts, and international foods.

The night before I co wash mini Me's hair with conditioner, coconut milk, and honey. After co washing and moisturizing I completed a "faux hauk" look by using Butter N' Jelly styling aid and applied 3 pony puffs along the center of the head with a 3 strand twist out in the front.

Charlene accented the faux hawk with a braid that wrapped through out the head-still spot lighting the natural hair style.




Milaki Conner applied the makeup ( the lighting wasn't good in these pictures, however the make up was FLAWLESS and age appropriate).


Next up was the show!!!!! Mini Me ROCKED!!!!!! It had begun to rain, the runway was wet. She adjusted, kept the beat when the music changed mid walk, and gave the photographer what they wanted at the end of that runway. She RIPPED THAT RUNWAY!!!!!! I was very proud of her and was gleaming from ear to ear.. She almost made me wanna adorn my stilettos and rock out for old time sake ( lol..lol).




Mini Me met Paul Wharton ( model coach and member of the Dc Housewives Cast). He gave me lots of advice, advised me to keep mini me in the modeling game because she is a natural. He also said he could feel her confidence and she was a natural beauty ( yeah!).

We also had a opportunity to network with April Watts ( a multi-talented performer best known to audiences for her work hosting television and radio programs in the Washington, DC metropolitan market including her current gig on Magic 95.9 (radio) and WHW Rock ( indie talent showcase Produced and Hosted by April Watts)

I didn't get an opportunity to capture additional photos. Along with being the mom-anger I was also assisting behind the scenes. There were some fierce models rippin the runway- BUT Mini Me was the ONLY CHILD/TEEN NATURAL!!!!! I love the fact that despite all the straight hair, weaves, and wigs she didn't feel pressured to "look" like them. She said to me "Mommy, can you do my hair and make it big? " I admire my munchkin for staying true to herself and rocking HER WAY! I love...love...love.. that my mini me looks up to me and I 'm her role model. She is so much like me ( her smile, her personality, her confidence) - everyone that meet her in person always say " she really is a mini you!"

Mini me brought along a friend for moral support ( I ended up putting her to work..lol..lol..). After the show we walked up and down H street looking at all the vendors, and the food that was available for purchase. Despite the rain and the cool weather it was a great day!!!!


S/N: With the festival being held in DC I was expecting to hear Go-Go the entire day-that wasn't the case- there was a DJ there ROCKING HOUSE ( my 1st love).. WHEW it was giving me FEVER!!!!! Almost made me think I was 21 again partying at Nell's.

Disclaimer: These images may not be reproduced, copied, transmitted or manipulated without the written permission of Mz. Sixx. Use of any image as the basis for another photographic concept or illustration (digital, artist rendering or alike) is a violation of the United States and International Copyright laws. All images are copyrighted © 2011 – Au’Naturale by Mz. Sixx.

I've been blogged-check out my feature

I'm excited to announce that I'm the featured natural on Curly Nu Growth's Blog. today. Below is a sneak peak at the interview.

How long have you been natural/ transitioning?

I have been natural off and on for 15 years. I’ve rocked everything from a bald head to locs, to loose natural hair.

What or who inspired you to go natural?

I was going through a bad breakup with my ex. I had shoulder length relaxed hair and I had a waiting to exhale moment in the salon. Instead of getting a ”touch up” i opted for the jada pinkett cut ( natural) and dyed my hair honey blond. It was a hairstyle to me (at that time), people were amazed that I would cut my hair that short. I needed to be reborn, a new look, a new attitude, and a new ”me”. I must admit that when I originally got that cut, I felt a little sassy or spicy! I was so confident and my twa was CUTE!


What advice would you give to someone considering going natural?
Research, and understand that you have styling options. You don't have to big chop, and you’re not limited to the ”afro”. Natural is confidence, its sexy, its empowering!

What products are you currently using in your hair?

I use products from my product line (Au’Naturale by Mz. Sixx), water, and aloe vera gel. I’m very picky and snobby as to what I will allow to touch my hair. The only time I indulge in commercial products are when I’m conducting a product review for my blog. Otherwise, its my products or items available to me from my kitchen. Click Here to finish reading the article...
Thank you Curly Nu Growth for featuring me, I enjoyed doing the feature and I enjoy your blog.


Click Here to subscribe to Curly Nu Growth's Blog.

Milk of Magnesia As A Face Primer... It Works!!

Countless people struggle with the inconvenience of oily skin on an everyday basis. Makeup is nearly impossible to apply and maintain for any desired length of time, expensive cleansers and exfoliators are often required to eliminate extra oil, and embarrassing pimples and other skin complications regularly crop up without warning.

With all this being said, there don't seem to be any benefits for those with this skin type. However, one little known advantage is the fact there are homemade remedies and economical solutions many people have not even thought to discover. While many oil-prone folks are blowing their bank account on infomercial products and prescription-required ointments, the best solution of all may be found at your local grocery or drug store.

Use Milk of Magnesia to treat oily skin by first washing your skin as usual. Pat your skin completely dry. Always use care and be gentle when you wash your face. It's not necessary to scrub hard, even if your skin is extra-oily. Scrubbing too hard can damage sensitive facial skin.

Apply Milk of Magnesia to your face, nose and forehead by using a cotton ball. Saturate the cotton ball with the Milk of Magnesia and dab it lightly onto your skin. Cover all oily areas well. It's best to treat oily skin with Milk of Magnesia immediately after washing your face. Allow the Milk of Magnesia to dry completely on your skin.

Put your make-up on directly on top of the Milk of Magnesia once it has completely dried. It makes a great foundation for make-up. The dried Milk of Magnesia forms a base that causes make-up products to stick to your skin. It causes your make-up to last much longer on your skin.

Click Here To Read more: How to Treat Oily Skin With Milk of Magnesia

Below is a youtube video that "show" how to apply the MOM as a face primer

Its official-verified and STAMPED- IT WORKS!!!!!!!

I'm a member of the grease gang..lol..lol.. My skin is super oily and shine ALL DAY. I've been searching long and hard for something that would eliminate my grease. I've tried the MOM application a couple of times, and still got shine except for yesterday ( I wasnt applying enough).....

Yesterday I did the following:

1. start with a clean face




2. applied my toner ( rose water) with a cotton ball, pat dry




3. pour a quarter size amount of the MOM into your hands




4. "blot" it all over your face




5. rub it all in- all over the face




6. allow it to dry ( 1-2 minutes)




7. you may see chalky/white residue ( which was fine for me)




8. complete your makeup application ( foundation, concealer, eyeshadow, etc)




9. finish with powder ( I used a translucent powder)

It was great not having to blot or powder my face multiple times through the day. When I came home, I was still oil and shine free. This will remain a staple!!!!!!!

Note:

I poured the MOM into a squeeze/squirt bottle ( to control the pour)

I poured the MOM directly in the palm of my hands ( other use cotton or sponges)

Disclaimer: These images may not be reproduced, copied, transmitted or manipulated without the written permission of Mz. Sixx. Use of any image as the basis for another photographic concept or illustration (digital, artist rendering or alike) is a violation of the United States and International Copyright laws. All images are copyrighted © 2011 – Au’Naturale by Mz. Sixx.

Mini Me Updo for Picture Day

Today is school picture day for mini me.. She has in 2 week old twist (she's been swimming in these twist over the holiday weekend-hense the fuzzies).

She styled her hair herself by applying a lil shea butter creme, leave in conditioner, a few dabs of aloe vera gel on her egdes,and a couple of bobby pins. She grabbed a few sections, twisted them to one side-secured with a boby pin, and fluffed the lose twist.

Yesterday it rain cats and dogs.. Her friends were running because some of them had just gotten a relaxer.. She was " strolling" along and loaned her hooded jacket to a friend. the friend said: " You don't need it? " Her response: " Naw, I'm natural.. my hair loves the rain" Get it mini me!!!!!

These images may not be reproduced, copied, transmitted or manipulated without the written permission of Mz. Sixx. Use of any image as the basis for another photographic concept or illustration (digital, artist rendering or alike) is a violation of the United States and International Copyright laws. All images are copyrighted © 2011 – Au’Naturale by Mz. Sixx.

Mini Me First Day of School -2011

Wow, where did the summer go? School finally re opened for mini me after Hurricane Irene. Every year since she entered kindergarten, I always took mini me to school on the first day. We would go to Starbucks, have our coffee beverage and a pastry and talk about the importance on staying true to yourself and not getting mixed in with the wrong crowd-aka- Mean Girls. I was super excited about our yearly tradition *squeals*, mini me had alternate plans {insert gas face}. She politely informed me that she was riding the bus on the 1st day { gasp}! The Bus!!!! what about our Starbucks date? What about tradition? Her response- we can do it tomorrow-followed by ' Moooooooom- I want to go with my friends on the bus" {insert face crack}.



She is a few months away from officially becoming a "teenager" she is ready to say "I'm 13". Is this what I had to look forward too- my mini me dissing me to hang with her friends {sad face}. I tried to act like my feeling wasn't hurt, and I managed to capture a few pic's.




She is coming into her own style and has discovered MAKEUP! {screech}. Now she is asking for her own make up and brushes, double ear piercings, and teenager earrings ( the larger style hoops- I told her only teenagers and adults wear them- well she is banking on a pair for her 13th b'day)



whew, she is JUST LIKE ME- and I'M NOT READY!!!!!!! I wish I could turn back the hands of time- when she was 5 or 6 years old and she pranced around in my heels, my jewelry, and tried her best at imitating me. NOW she wants to WEAR my heels, and jewelry to school!!!!!{ locks the drawer on everything!}. I think she is trying to give me a run for my money on her perfected model walk {she has a show coming up September 17th} she can rip that runway- Just Like Her Mama {lol...lol..}

Natural Hair Looks

Mini Me Hair- Mini Twist - sides pulled up, "hump" in the front

Mz. Sixx- 2 french braids in the front, 3 strand twist-out in the back ( 3rd day hair)

The Winner is: KANDY LAND KURLS!!!!!!!!!

Congratulations Kandy, I will contact you wo obtain the mailing address for the Twisted Sista Products. Please provide a review of the products and attach a few pictures :)

Thank you to all the participants, and Twisted Sista...
Stay tuned for the next giveaway!!!!!!!!!!

Diary of a Hair Princess: Your Little Princess!

My mini me was featured in Diary of a Hair Princess: Your Little Princess! blog.. Check it out and comment...

Twisted Sista Hair Product GIVEAWAY!!!!!!!!!! **CLOSED**

Twisted Sista from Urban Therapy is a new hair care line for girl’s on-the-go! If you want amazing locks, without the hassle of spending hours primping — these products are for you. De-Frizz shampoo, De-Frizz conditioner, and curl activator are just a few items from the line and the best part is that each product is under $5!


What are the products?

Different Strokes Serum – For tough tangles and overall smoothing, this serum eliminates frizz and adds shine to define curls and keep straight hair touchable and smooth with a boost of antioxidant support.


Relaxing Straightening Crème – Blow dryers or straightening irons can fry hair! Protect and moisturize your strands from thermal damage with this pre-styling cream, which adds control and relaxes hair while it moisturizes and straightens.


Curl Activator – Add volume, bounce and curl definition with this rich cream moisturizer. An added bonus – it adds UV protection while it activates curls and eliminates frizz.


30 Second Curls Spray – Keep in your bag to refresh hair throughout the day – it’ll only take 30 seconds! Made with vitamin E and naturally derived emollients, this spray boosts curl definition in virtually no time.



De-Frizz Shampoo – For thirsty hair, this shampoo features ingredients derived from coconut oil and fruit sugar to gently cleanse, boost moisture, reduce breakage and frizz, and improve manageability and resilience.


De-Frizz Conditioner – Made with hair-strengthening panthenol to nourish and strengthen, this conditioner also features UV filters to protect hair from harmful rays. The formula helps give body to damaged hair while it moisturizes and improves shine.

The wonderful reps at Urban Therapy have partnered with me to offer

one (1) lucky follower an opportunity to try 3 of their products.

See below for giveaway entry rules...

Prize(s)

(1) Twisted Sista Curl Activator (3.38 fl.oz)

(1) Twisted Sista Blow Drying Creme (3.38fl.oz)

(1) Twisted Sista Different Strokes Serum (1.01)

**GIVEAWAY RULES**

(must follow all rules or entry will be void)

1. Resident of the U.S.

2. Only ONE comment per follower (comments will appear after I approve them)

3. “follow” this blog (on the sidebar to your right)*

4. leave a comment on this blog post stating why you’d like to win this contest

5. Include how you’d like to be contacted if you win (leave your e-mail, twitter ID, etc)

* You will get an extra 2 entries if you are a subscriber of my YouTube channel (leave your username; I will check subscriptions before putting in another entry)

For your convenience, here is a guide for an entry:If it’s easier, you may copy/paste this as your comment and fill in the blanks.

1) I'm a resident of the U.S.

2) I followed this blog; I used ____ name to follow

3) I’d like to win because ____ / The product I want the most from this giveaway is

4) If I win, please contact me via ____

Optional: please include 2 extra entries for me b/c I subscribe to your YT channel. My user name on YouTube is ______

The winner will be picked randomly on August 29, 2011. Good Luck!!!!!!!!!

Natural Hairlista: Meet Kristi

What's your name and where are you from? Kristi ( EnjoyingTheJourneys), I’m from Fayetteville, NC but live in Maryland

What is your hair type? 4a/4b

Have you always been natural? No, If not, what inspired you to go natural? In the summer of 2008,after years of wasting money on expensive relaxers and noticing how incredibly thin my hair was looking, I decided to go natural. I cut off all of my chemically treated hair and rocked a tiny afro. Around the same time, my youngest daughter who didn’t grow a head full of hair until around her 2nd birthday had really soft fine hair, I didn’t want to relax it, and so it was all the more reason for me to learn how to
take care of our natural hair.

Did you transition? If so, for how long? 4 months.

How do you detangle your hair? I detangle my hair using cheapie conditioners like Suave or V05, I completely saturate it and part it in sections ( 4), then split those in half. I use my fingers to grab any shed hairs and pull those gently out. I follow that with a wide tooth comb. After the wide tooth comb glides through my hair. I go over it again with my denman brush.

What styles do you love to wear the most and why? I love braid outs and twist outs.

How do you go about achieving this style? I usually braid my hair up after its been washed and conditioned. When I go out, I let them out and have nice fluffy hair.

List the products that you use and how you use them. What is your current hair regimen? Share what works for you! I use Giovanni triple treat shampoo, kinky curly knot today as a leave in, and other products like shea butter, or shea moisture line of products for styling.


What do you love most about being natural? I love that my hair is healthy. I love that it is versatile. I can rock so many styles and looks.

Do you have any advice for other naturals? Have Patience with the process!! And embrace YOUR hair. Not everyone will have the same texture but all natural hair is beautiful.

Where on the web can we find more about you and your styles?
Blog: EnjoyingTheJourneys.com

Youtube: Youtube.com/EnjoyingTheJourneys