Loc A Fella Twist & Loc Gel Review

Ok so I've gotten Loc A Fella's loc butter in the past and absolutely loved it. It even lasted me 6 months. So i called myself ordering it again on Amazon a few weeks ago and received the Loc & Twist gel instead...I was infuriated at first because Loc a Fella's products are so difficult to find nowadays. I decided to try it anyway and am very pleased with the results. I used it on damp locs and secured with my clips for a few minutes. I only had time to freshen up the hairline, but when I came to work and looked in the mirror, I was stoked! My locs were dry and crisp and haven't unraveled at all...so unlike when I use any other loc gel without a dryer.... In my opinion it kinda has a  masculine smell to it, but my co-workers said it smelled good. As long as it doesn't smell like Old Spice and keeps my hair in line, I'm ok. Here's a pic of the results

Skin Care Product Review: Burt Bees Natural Skin Solutions Sensitive Facial Cleanser & Daily Moisturizing Cream

This is coming from a girl with eczema....Facial Cleanser works well on my  sensitive skin, it's creamy, lather & sud free, but leaves a dry skin appearance with a little residue...which means you MUST use the The Moisturizing Cream. The cream is great for those who need the moisture in cold weather. I mostly use it for my face after the face wash and other problem itch areas that still need to be moisturized..It gives me moisture without clogging my pores nor does it give me the 'greasy' look...No scent, no bad reaction, my skin feels soft after applying. You can tell it's made with real ingredients...

A Slice of Humble Pie

1 Peter 5:5

Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.

 In Plain Ole English:

And in the same way, let the younger men be ruled by the older ones. Let all of you put away pride and make yourselves ready to be servants: for God is a hater of pride, but he gives grace to those who humbles themselves

This verse stuck out to me the most during church service on the 18th. Many of us, including me a lot lately (and it's so ironic that my pastor spoke of this issue) are asking how to get the Lord to recognize us, hear our call, and speak to us to guide us in the right direction. The first point was Humility. To humble yourself, submit to God, admit your faults, and ask for help. 

I must admit I am a prideful lioness. And many times, not in a good way. I hate asking others for help, I hate admitting I am wrong (but  I will at the end of the day), I hate showing weakness, and sometimes find i impossible to forgive those who are (in my eyes) undeserving.....

Lately I've been begging God to answer my prayer about direction in my career choice, which is really the only thing in my life I am completely unsure of. I haven't heard an answer; like I usually do in some unexplainable way or even a voice in my head he uses to communicate with me. Nothing. And while I have no confirmation, I go back and forth researching careers, worrying about my future, being unhappy forever as a CSR, refusing help, overspending to overcompensate, being too hard on myself, and holding a couple of vital grudges (still)....

It's crazy how ignorant I can all of a sudden be. But hey, that's what the Word is for. That is what church is for. To give us all a spiritual reality check. My pastor also went on to say Devotion, Worshiping, and Reading our Bible play a big part in God speaking to us. I needed a refresher because I know that when I start worrying, my heart is getting luke warm for God, since I'm not trusting him like I should be, trying to take matters into my own hands. I've always had a problem with patience when it comes to my direction. But this here is a journey I have to continue to embrace, even though it has its bumps, I still enjoy the beauty and madness of it all....

So this week I'm working on HUMILITY-  

• Knowing that in my flesh I am inadequate, yet I also knowing who I am in Christ.
• Being a peacemaker without needing to fight for my rights. Being able to walk humbly in the power of God’s Holy Spirit, not my own personal power.
• Putting others first. The meaning of humility in the Bible is one of loving others, not groveling! When I humble myself, I feel strong in the Lord. I don't need to be defensive     

Statements that show the power in humility.

compliments of www.dougbrittonbooks.com

You can defuse arguments when you are humble.

You do not need to stand up for yourself in an angry manner. And you do not have to win every argument.

A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger (Proverbs 15:1).

You can handle unfair treatment peacefully when you are humble.

You can respond to unfair treatment without being overcome by bitterness. Godly humility means you do not feel a need for vengeance or revenge.

Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you (Ephesians 4:31-32).

You do not have to put on a "false front" when you are humble.

When you understand God and humility, you don't need to act like a big shot. The better you know God, the less you have to prove.

You can eat "humble pie" without being crushed when you are humble.

When you are humble, you can respond to and learn from criticism without defensiveness—whether it is deserved or not deserved. Likewise, you can be aware of your failures without being emotionally devastated.

You can ask forgiveness when you are humble.

Even if you think you are only one percent wrong, you can easily apologize for what you did wrong.

Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift (Matthew 5:23-24).

You can talk with the right attitude when you are humble.

You can talk courteously and lovingly, regardless of the situation—even if you need to be firm or take strong actions.

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen (Ephesians 4:29).

Purple Perks

A small recent study shows that eating these plum-colored root veggies can lower your blood pressure. When participants added six to eight small purple potatoes (golf-ball size) twice a day to their regular diet, after four weeks their diastolic (the bottom number) blood pressure lowered by an average of 4.3 percent and their systolic (the top number) by 3.5 percent. The scientists said purple potatoes have almost the same blood pressure lowering abilities as oatmeal.

Of course, fried and smothered in butter doesn't count — the taters in this study were microwaved and enjoyed plain (with the skins). Potatoes are naturally high in antioxidants, which protect your body from damaging free radicals, but frying destroys those healthy substances. If eaten sans butter, margarine, or sour cream, a half-cup serving of purple potatoes is only 70 calories, so they're not fattening when enjoyed just as nature intended.

Hopefully this research will help make potatoes of all colors popular again and clear them of their unhealthy reputation. Knowing all varieties contain healthy phytochemicals on similar levels to broccoli, spinach, and brussels sprouts definitely inspires me to eat them.
Article by Jenny Sugar

Jus fab!

I was browsing on this site i just found out about www.justfab.com. It's a shoe membership website that's about $40 bucks a month. They create a selection based on a style quiz you take, and each month you choose a pair to buy. Each pair is $40 a month. The difference between this and shoedazzle.com is that you can opt out a month, if you got funny money.... I just joined. Love this style option they gave me below!

krisily look1 by justfabstylist featuring a paisley shawl

CALYPSO ST BARTH maxi dress
$449 - calypsostbarth.com

TopShop faux leather jacket
$106 - topshop.com

Beaded earrings
$80 - winknyc.com

Etro paisley shawl
£280 - net-a-porter.com

Free Natural Hair & Loc Product Giveaway on NDW

Join my social networking site (if you haven’t already), Natural Diva World, and share your natural hair story on the site’s blog. Tell us why you went natural, some adversities you’ve overcome with your hair and its new image, misconceptions, views from other, and its lovely rewards, tell us why you ARE your natural hair….Get creative and add pics of your transition if you like! The most touching story will win some free products by Miss Jessie’s. Loc wearers will receive a new product by Jamaican Mango & Lime. Contest Ends September 2, 2011.

Join here:

http://naturaldivaworld.ning.com/main/authorization/signUp?

Enter blog here:

http://naturaldivaworld.ning.com/profiles/blog/new

Healthy, yet Tasty Recipe: Sweet and Tangy Pasta Salad

Just browsing online for some tasty, yet healthy recipes to help me get off these SUMMER POUNDS.....Look what I found! We must find ways to satisfy our sweet teeth without regretting it later!

Sweet and Tangy Pasta Salad

Recipe to follow
1 cup shedded Napa cabbage
1/2 cup shredded red cabbage
1/4 cup minced onion
4 tbsp dried cranberries
2 tsp toasted pine nuts
2 cups cooked pasta
1 cup vegan mayo
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
2 tbsp agave syrup
1/2 tsp red pepperflakes.

Combine and refrigerate overnight. Serves 4-6

Loc Updo: Month 31 (2 yrs & 7 months)

Peel On Eye Shadow!!!!!

According to my co-worker this peel on eyeshadow had existed for awhile now. I just find it amazing...So many different colors and variations. It's well worth the $30 investment

                                                     You don't even have to blend it!!!!!!!

 

This one is my fave!

Natural Hair Event: Atlanta: WORLD Natural Hair Health & Beauty Show fall 2011

SHOW DATE
SEPTEMBER 10-11, 2011
EXHIBIT HALL OPENS
10:00AM - 7:00PM

WORLD NATURAL HAIR, HEALTH & BEAUTY SHOW, Taliah Waajid Black Earth Products is the proud presenter of the World Natural Hair, Health & Beauty Show since 1995. The World Natural Hair, Health & Beauty Show creates a much needed arena for professionals and consumers to come together to learn and exchange information about natural hair care, health and beauty products and techniques. 

LOCATION:

GEORGIA INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTER 

2000 CONVENTION CENTER CONCOURSE 

COLLEGE PARK, GA

Reflections: Another Birthday, Another Blessing

How grateful I am to have survived another year in my crazy beautiful life. My day marks the beginning of the Leo reign; a time for the King of the Jungle to shine and rule the other zodiacs. It also marks the anniversary of the day I chose to break free of permanent relaxers. So this makes.....hmmmm...4 years of being Napturally beautiful. I can't believe I've come so far in my natural journey.


Sadly on this day one of my favorite artists, Amy Whinehouse, passed away :( ..... If anything this just reminds me how precious life is, not to take the one's we love for granted, stay true to God and myself despite my faults, stay away from the drugs, deal with you deep seeded issues, and live every day like it's my last. RIP Amy Jade Whinehouse

In other news. I have found love again. YAAAAAAAAAAYYYYY! I've grown so much as a woman, being able to spend time taking myself to movies, shopping, church, errands....all Alone. being comfortable in my own skin in public without feeling like someone is watching me saying to themselves"Hmm she's alone" Yes I am alone, not lonely. Just when I became comfortable being single and not ready to mingle, A special prince dropped in my lap. God continues to surprise me, reminding me how much I am loved and how much he much really does want the best for me and all of us, we just have to believe in him.

Nails Nails Nails!!!

I've never been the kinda girl that has to get my nails done every two weeks. Hell, I work so hard and much with my hands I never paid them any attention. The last time I had my nails done was......hmmmmmm....College Graduation! I was more into pedicures because I favored the look of my toes in hot peep toe pumps and sandals, more than my finger nails. Recently, I've developed a desire to try get matching mani pedi sets...Great experience, but can become costly, especially if you're a fan of acrylic or gel nails. I would accompany my line sister, Sher, to the Nail Shop and all of a sudden I felt like a little girl getting her first mani. Maybe because it makes a woman feel feminine, pretty, and expressive of their own personality....

I wasn't ready for the full commitment of falsies and acrylic (such a pain to remove and keep up with). So I started getting manicures with accompanying colors to match my moods. However manicures and polish changes don't last nearly as long as a full set of gel nails. Two days after I'd find my polish chipping and I'd be a little disappointed. I decided to take a break from my costly regimen and try doing my own regularly, which gives me the freedom to change whenever I like. I wanted something a little more funky than the traditional colors so I tried Sally Hansen's nail products. Outcome:

And on another day:

This leopard peel on polish comes in a set of 20 (which could fit on your toes as well) with handy, quick, and easy instructions....Just make sure you keep them room temp. One day it got a little hot in my room and when I tried to use it, it wouldnt stick to my nails as good as when I first purchased it. If this happens to you, just apply polish to your nails right before applying the nail decal....

I get so many compliments, people think I went to a nail shop and requested this design! Nope..just another creative bargain

Shoes on wheels ((((fire skates!!!))))

These fiya wheels are only for the funky, whimsical, weird, trend setters, fashionistas, who love to make a statement. Got an extra $500 to spare??? check them out on junkprints.com

Target Queen's Awesome & Unique Accessories

Locs of Style

Black History Month: An Ode to Pam

If you know me, you know I love me some Pam Grier. She's the general profile icon on www.naturaldivaworld.ning.com. I have a portrait of her in my room and when I want to feel sexy or confident, I talk to Pam before I jet. She exudes individuality (with that bangin ass fro), sexuality, confidence, and freedom. She wasn't afraid to express herself through her art and made Blaxploitation films a classic movie genre for later generations and a force to be reckoned with! After all she is the 1st real female action star!
Here's Wiki's Bio of Pam:
Pamela Suzette "Pam" Grier (born May 26, 1949) is an American actress. She became famous in the early 1970s, after starring in a string of moderately successful women in prison and blaxploitation films such as 1974's Foxy Brown. Her career was revitalized in 1997 after her appearance in Quentin Tarantino's film Jackie Brown. She is one of a few African-American actresses to receive a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress.

Grier was born in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, the daughter of Gwendolyn Sylvia (née Samuels), a homemaker and nurse, and Clarence Ransom Grier, who worked as a mechanic and Technical Sergeant in the United States Air Force. She has one sister and one brother.^[3] At age 6, Grier was raped by two boys when she was left unattended at her aunt's house. "It took so long to deal with the pain of that," she says, "You try to deal with it, but you never really get over it," she adds. "And not just me; my family endured so much guilt and anger that something like that happened to me...

Grier moved to Los Angeles, California in 1967, where she was initially hired as a receptionist at the American International Pictures (AIP) company. She was discovered by director Jack Hill, who cast her in his women in prison films The Big Doll House (1971), and The Big Bird Cage (1972).

Grier has never married and has no children. She dated basketball player Kareem Abdul-Jabbar during the early 1970s and had a six-month affair with actor/comedian Richard Pryor around 1976–77. She was also romantically linked to actor/comedian Freddie Prinze in the 1970s.^[6] In 1998, she was engaged to music executive Kevin Evans, but the engagement was terminated in 1999. From 2000 to 2008, she dated marketing executive Peter Hempel.

Locs of Style

A New Year, Same Ole Me!

My BFF had a New Year's Vision Board Party the other day....that's basically when you get a few friends together, eat, fellowship, and create a visionary board that represents your goals for the year.

This year I wanted to keep my goals short and meaningful, to avoid the mid-year annoyance of intermission, I kept my vision for 2011 down to 3 principles:

1. Follow your instincts
2. Finish what you start
3. Let it go....

#1 relates to my mind, in regards to saying what i honestly about things, the choice to stop volunteering unnecessary information to people, and the freedom to make my life's decisions based on what i feel is right....listening to your instincts or as some say listen to the voice of God. This also includes the freedom of spontaneity when it comes to new adventures, experiences, and challenges comin my way!!! Who knows, maybe I'll go skydiving...though I doubt my instincts would agree, lol

#2 Is the value i have the most trouble with....completing what I start. Just finish it!!! Finish the half washed dishes, finish projects...like my undergrad college scrapbook, organize bill and misc piles, get back on my workout routine...etc etc etc. I have a serious passion growing a name for myself in the Natural World which includes my website, it's my baby that needs some nurturing. I would love to finally get a passport and become a citizen of the world. The most important aspect my search for self discovery is a compelling career...something where i can help people, create things, love what i do, and get paid vast sums of money!!!!! well.....I'd go for a medium salary. Not hard to please, but hard to decide.....I don't want to keep making the same mistakes....

#3 My last basic principle is Letting it go! What is 'it' you ask? It's everything that hinders me emotionally; past break ups, self esteem issues, fears, family drama, just all of it! All the crap, the baggage, the tears, the negativity, the procrastination, the devil, the enemy, false and unrealistic expectations of myself and others...LET IT GO

I'd like to hear some resolutions, goals, or visions for 2001. Please drop me a line....

TEENAGE DREAMS: mind, body, soul........LOCS

My beloved LOCS are officially TEENAGERS now! What's ironic about that is I feel like a teenager......emerging from the awkwardness of puberty into a more independent state of mind. Figuring out what I want from myself and also what I want for myself, and most importantly what God wants from lil ole me.....Most of my life, I have lived in fear. Fear of others, fear of misconceptions, fear of being alone, fear of expressing my thoughts to a world that doesn't understand me (with the exception of a few).....It's been almost 2 years since I began this journey and I can honestly say that the more my locs grow my soul gets greener....

The fear of the unknown isn't completely gone...I'd say it's less intimidating. I'm poking fun of fear, seeing what the big hype is all about. In order to completely rid of fear forever, however, involves confrontation. So far so good, but I'll be grateful for the day when I can look any fear in the eyes and laugh! As of now, fear gets a chuckle, as opposed to the past when I'd cry like a toddler on the scene.

These Teenage years are all about being comfortable in your own skin, free to express yourself, and know that it's ok to be 'feelin yourself'....and in these dreads, I'm definitely feelin myself. My hair swings like never before, and with me being a member of Allllpha Kappa Allllpha Sorority Incorporated, the conceit can only get worse. Why should I be humble right now? Growing up, I've always been shy and slightly insecure when it came to my hair. I never had hair to grow past my neck and now after only 2 years of patience and lack of chemicals, my locs are damn near at my shoulders!

My weight, I'm OK with. I always thought I had to be a certain size to be respected, or feel good about myself. So I lost 30lbs over the course of a year (which was a year ago)....After a bad break up and some good food, lol, I may have gained about 15 of those pounds back. In the past if I was aware of weight gain, my world has ended. But now, who the fuck cares? (excuse my language). I'm at a point in my life where I could give a damn about being Kim Kardashian's size, as long as I look good in what I wear. The little discipline I have won't let me exceed a size 10/11, which is fine by me and the men who want me for who I is...... I've still come a long way.

As far as love is concerned..... haven't quite figured it out yet. I do know that I'm a sucker for it. Gets me open every time and at times drained the hell out of me. Love turns me into a complete and utter fool and regardless of how bad I get hurt, I just keep coming back for more. As of now, I'm taking a break from that tricky thing called love until I get myself intact. I'm tired of loving the unworthy and fearful and getting nothing in return. Right now I'm exploring lust as a means of self control. I know that sounds strange, but I feel that a casual situation helps me learn to control my emotions. Good bye angry black woman syndrome and hello to the girl who keeps it cool! It doesn't always get me what I want, but it helps me keep some privacy, dignity, mystery, and avoid embarrassing situations. Quiet the crazy ladies!

3RD YEAR NAPPIVERSARY

I just had my 3rd year anniversary in the natural world and I'm feeling lovely and free like Jill Scott said. Locking my hair was the best thing I've dome for my hair and myself. Everyday is a new experience, for now I have more styling options than ever before. My locs are still babies, but every week I see them mature more and more as the length and my wisdom increases. I wonder where I'll be in life when they reach my back. Will I be married, with children, or overseas, in a new career helping others? What kind of energy will my locs hold; creative, knowledge, self assurance, freedom, health, spirituality...Only time will tell but I'm loving every minute of the journey. Peace and Love to the loc-wearers and the natural divas of the world!