NaturalistOne's Hair Journey

My third client

2009-06-09T19:05:00.000-07:00

This is my third client. This client has about an 1 1/2 of new growth with relaxed ends. I have been helping her with hairstyles during her transition. So far she likes her hair. She wanted Sisterlocks before she went out of the country. I'm looking forward to seeing how much growth she has when she comes back.

I will be submitting my paperwork for certification in the the next two weeks. I'm looking forward to becoming certified. So far things are going great. I have four consultations next week so hopefully they will be my clients. My retightenings are under five hours which I am happy about.

I also have been getting advice and guidance from my fantastic mentor. She is awesome.

I'm looking forward to becoming certified real soon. I was recently laid off from my job as a legal secretary for eight years. I felt this was a sign for me to go into business for myself and become self-employed. My goal is to not go back to corporate America.

I've been very busy and I can't wait til I become a Certified Consultant.

My second client

2009-05-12T13:32:00.001-07:00

This is my second client. For this client I did a lock take down and installation. I enjoyed working with her and looking forward to watching her SL journey.

My first client

2009-04-21T22:07:00.000-07:00

I did my first Sisterlock installation this weekend. My client was awesome and excited about getting Sisterlocks. It took me 20 1/2 hours to complete her hair. At first was a little scared but my mentor Mae was there to help me and I really appreciate it. I'm so happy to be a Sisterlock consultant. As of today I have two client. Looking forward to having more. Enjoy the photos!!!!

I'm A Sisterlock Trainee

2009-03-04T07:29:00.000-08:00

This past weekend I took the Sisterlock training class in Houston. I am very excited about being in the Sisterlock family. I live in the Chicagoland area, I would so appreciate if there is any women that are interested in Sisterlock to please refer me.

Happy Holidays

2008-12-16T16:33:00.001-08:00

Hello everyone. I know its been a while since I posted. I've been very busy the past couple months with volunteering and attending the Obama rally in November. Now that he has won, I plan to continue my volunteering and will be attending the Inauguration in January.

I'm also hopefully and praying that I will still have a job in 2009. I'm also trying to get my business up and running so maybe this is a sign.

As far as my hair, it is constantly growing and I'm loving it. This was taken my my Xmas luncheon. I really like the color of my hair. This picture really shows it. I rod my entire head and then put my hair in a pineapple and had spiral curls on the sides. I got alot of compliments on my hair. I also plan to take the SL training class in Tampa in March. Alot going on with me.

Happy Holiday Ladies.

FABULOUS AT 40

2008-09-18T06:20:00.000-07:00

Today I turned the "Big 4-0". Time has definitely flew by. For the past month, I've been excited reaching this milestone.

I look back at my 30s and very much enjoyed the journey. I hope big things happen for me turning 40.

I'm having my birthday party next weekend. I'm excited about that as well. I plan to have a good time as I enter a new milestone in my life.

I'm 40 and Fabulous!!!!

My new tattoo - Miss you Daddy.

2008-08-17T06:43:00.001-07:00

Atlantis

2008-06-16T07:09:00.001-07:00

For my anniversary, my husband and I went to the Atlantis in Paradise Island. It was absolutely beautiful.

The weather was perfect and warm. It wasn't too hot. It was absolutely perfect. The Atlantis had some beautiful aquariums throughout the whole island. The hotel we stayed in, Coral Towers, had a shark and stingray lagoon.

For my trip, I had my hair in a pineapple and I got alot of compliments on my hair. This will definitely be my hair style for the summer.

I would definitely recommend the Atlantis for an anniversary and also for the family. The website is http://www.atlantis.com/.

TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED

2008-06-01T06:17:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone: I haven't post in a while. Been through alot for the past two months. I feel like I have somewhat weathered the storm but I'm not completely there yet, it will take me some time.

I was at the mall and I saw this cute shirt. I bought a black one also. I've got alot of compliments on the shirt.

This day my husband and I are on our way to Navy Pier and Millenium Park for the Blue Fest 2008. The weather if finally nice to go out.

My hair is growing out of control as always, lol. I used sponge rollers on my hair (four locs on each roller). I like the results I get from the sponge rollers. I love tight curls than loose because my hair holds longer.

Next week, my husband and I are going to "The Atlantis" for our three year anniversary. This is definitely something my husband and I need cause we have been at odds for a while and trying to work things out.

I will probably be sporting the "Pineapple" style during the whole trip as we will be in the water alot.

That's it for now, everyone have a "BLESSED" day.

April Session.

2008-04-10T19:49:00.000-07:00

My Eastern Star sisters and I celebrated our April session this past week in Northbrook. We had a fabulous time.

The first event was Tie Night. I'm wearing a rhinestone tie. At the event, I saw alot of unique ties.

Some members had custom made OES ties. They looked real cute. Alot of chapter had on rhinestone ties also.

The second night was Western Night. We had a great time. They had bull riding contest as well. I'm the one holding a pop can.

The last and final night was the "Roaring 2os". I loved my outfit.

I loved the color of my dress. Th evening was also an Awards Banquet. Since my chapter just got warranted we didn't win anything but we plan to win "Chapter of the Year of 2009".

For my hair for the session, I roller set my hair with black sponge roller with Lottabody Setting Lotion. This time I put 4 locs on one roller. This was a long process. I had almost 80 sponge rollers in my hair. The next morning, my locs were pretty and tight, the way I like it. My hair is getting very long. I've been clipping a few locs that were very long. I want to keep my hair shoulder length. It about time I need a retightening. Probably will do that this weekend.

Travel light.

Sis. Tammy Mack

Nevaeh Chapter #797

MF&AM

MOTHER/DAUGHTER BOND

2008-02-12T10:46:00.000-08:00

I have a very strong bond and closeness with my mother and my sister. There is nothing that anyone can do to break it. My mother is a strong woman. She will tell you what she feels and will cut you up in a minute, lol. But she is honest. My mother has been there for me my entire life. She will give me her last. She taught me how to be a strong woman and to always do my best and I love her for that.

My sister is your typical "bratty sister." She gets on my LAST nerve. One thing I can say is that me and my sister are EXTREMELY close. Everyone that knows us know how protective we are of each and that we truly have sisterly bond.

This pic was taken at an Atlanta retreat. We haven't taken a nice picture in a long time. I love my mother and sister very much.

We share a mother & daughter bond
A goal, A unity.
Not because she is my mother, and I her daughter
But because we are both women.
We need to stay together
To survive, To love, To live
We need to stand up for our rights.
My mother lives in this world as a woman.
She fights for what she knows is right
She worked so hard to bring me up to be a woman.
I give her in return, what I feel she deserves
LOVE*PEACE*UNDERSTANDING*AND HER SELF-WORTH.
And even then we will continue to live
As women together, Here forever, on this sacred earth.........

Happy New Year!!!!

2008-01-05T06:42:00.000-08:00

It's been a long time since I posted. My hair is definitely growing andI love it.

For my hair, I used black sponge rollers with Lottabody setting lotion. I bought a hair dryer because my hair doesnt get completely dry the next morning. I like using the black sponge roller than the soft spikes because I get better curls and they last longer.

I've been real busy for the past couple of months with family, etc. Last week I went to Atlanta for an Encampment. During the Encampment me and my family was able to go to the King Center. I haven't been there since I was a young girl. I appreciate it now. One day, I will take my kids there. Alot has change since I've been to ATL. I wish they were able to clean up the area as far as putting strip malls, restaurants, etc. there. Anyway I had a good time.

This weekend I will be taking on-line class so I'm real excited and can't wait til I finish so I can start my own business. See ya later.

My son got his permit

2007-10-02T04:47:00.000-07:00

Another milestone. My son (white t-shirt) passed his written test and he is ready to drive. I'm so excited. It seem like time is definitely flying by.

I will start getting him on the road. I will probably be nervous, but I think he will do ok. In Illinois, he has to wait 3 months before he gets his license. In 08, it will be 9 months. There have been alot of teen drivers killed in Illinos so I hope and pray that my son will be a safe driver.

This is a picture of me, my sister, niece and nephew. My sister and niece are both natural.

IT'S MY BIRTHDAY YA'LL

2007-09-18T09:56:00.000-07:00

Today is my 39th birthday. WOW. This will be the LAST year I will be in my 30's. I can't believe it. My 30's have definitely flown by. As I look back, I can say that I enjoyed it. There were alot of ups and a few downs, but I would not change anything at all. There are some things I need to change now, but it's never too late. I must say that I don't even look like I'm 39, but, hey, it's just a number.

Anyway, I came home from work, my hubby had a dozen roses, a gift card to Bath and Body Works and iTunes. Then later on that night, we went out to dinner. My DH told me that he has a few more surprises for me but it won't happen til October 12. It is actually a trip and some other things, but he won't tell me where we are going. So my DH knows that I'm VERY impatient. So now I have to wait. My DH is very romantic so I know that it will be something romantic and special. Other than that I had a very good birthday and I love my husband:)

SiStars Forever

2007-08-17T20:53:00.000-07:00

This is picture of me and my Eastern Star sisters. I enjoy being a part of this organization.

We decided to take a picture. Don't we look cute.:)

I love my hair on this pic. It looks so full. My Eastern Star Sister in the red shirt is going natural. She loves my hair so I will be working on her to be a part of the Sisterlock family. Wish me luck.:)

HAPPY SISTERLOCK ANNIVERSARY TO ME!!!

2007-08-08T14:17:00.000-07:00

Yeah, today is my two year anniversary. It's finally here. I came a long way.

This has been one of the best decisions I made in regards to my hair. I wish I had did it earlier, but hey, it's never too late for anything.

Thanks to one of my friends, who is natural, that referred me to Sisterlock. She told me that Sisterlocks would be the best thing for me. I can't wait til I hit my third year with Sisterlocks.

This is me two years ago after getting my Sisterlocks installed. I remember like it was yesterday. My husband and three sons looked at me like I was a alien. They were nt too happy about how my hair look.

I wore a headband for about a good two weeks due to so much scalp that was showing, but after a while I was like "the hell with the headband" and accepted how my hair looked knowing that I will develop beautiful, healthy and natural hair.

Again, I'm so happy I reach my second year with Sisterlocks and look forward to many more.

Hopefully in my next post, my hair will be colored.:)

Soft Spikes Part II

2007-07-30T10:23:00.001-07:00

Hey everyone. Here is a picture of me and my friend at a going away party.

The night before the party I rolled my hair with the soft spikes. When I took them down the next morning it wasn't the tight curls I wanted but it looked nice though. I used Lottabody for it to set but maybe I should have saturated it more. I was thinking about trying Crinkles and Curls and using the hard rods to see the difference.Anyway, from the pic, I like how my hair came out. My girlfriend commented on how long my hair has grown.:)

Spike Rollers

2007-07-14T14:14:00.000-07:00

Hello Fam. Thursday evening I decided to use the soft spikes. I haven't used them like in 2 years. The first time I used it my hair was very, very short.

I used lottabody and my consultant told me to have the pointy part of the soft spike going down once I put it through the hole. The curls will hang down instead of up.

This is the a.m. after taking out the spikes. My first thought was it's ok, lol. After the pic I decided to play with it.

This picture was taken the next day. My curls have dropped and I like it. I got alot of compliments on my hair.

Next time, I want to try using rods and setting lotion Crinkles and Curls. If anyone can recommend different curlers and setting lotion to use, I appreciate it.

My two year anniversary is coming up real soon (Aug. 8th).

Happy Anniversary!!!!

2007-06-28T11:26:00.000-07:00

Wedding anniversary that is. My hubby and I went to Las Vegas for our 2 year anniversary. We had a great time. We stayed at the MGM Grand. That hotel is HUGE!!!!! I don't know how many times we got lost in that hotel.

The MGM is absolutely beautiful. I think it is the largest hotel in Vegas. Anyway, we had one bad night which was the day we arrived. Our room was considered check out and the maid service took our luggage and threw away our dining passes, plane tickets, etc.

We had to stay at security for about three hours. Around 2 a.m. they came to our room with everything that was thrown away. For the inconvenience they gave us food dining for our entire stay at the MGM. That was alot of $$$ we didn't have to spend, lol.

The temperature in Vegas was like 120 degrees. We cut through alot of hotels and through sprinklers to keep cool.

We saw some fabulous shows and bought a timeshare in Vegas.

Arriving at Vegas, I suffered jetlag and the two hour difference. I was very tired from all the walking and the hot weather.

My husband who doesn't like to party wanted to hang out and go to a few clubs. But this time I was the party pooper, lol.

We also went to see Toni Braxton at the Flamingo. She put on a good show but she didn't sing all of her classic songs. We were right dead in the front. I didn't know she was that tiny. She is like 5'2.

Anyway, she came and held my husband's hand was singing to him. He was grinning from ear to ear.

She had some amazing back-up dancers and she even had her sisters as back-up singers.

Our last night, we went to the Eiffel Tower. Looking over Vegas was abslutely beautiful.
As luck would have it, we were able to she dancing water at the Bellagio at the top of the Eiffel Tower.

I had a great time in Vegas. As far as my hair, it's growing and growing. I lost my hook so I have to order another one. My 2 year anniversary is August 8th. I can't wait til that day comes. Hopefully, I will have my hair colored for the special day.:)

I TAG MYSELF

2007-03-08T09:21:00.000-08:00

I didn't know if I've been tagged or not but here are some things about me.

1. I am a New Edition fanatic. I grew up listening to their music. I remember my father bought me their first album and I loved him for it. I've been to almost every New Edition concert. I've been to their concert recently and they still got it.

They have been in the music business for almost 20 years and even though they didn't get the credit and financial success that they should have, they have been role models and paved the way for goups such as Boyz II Men, 112, etc.

I love me some Ronnie, Bobby, Ricky, Mike, Ralph and Johnny.

2. Maybe I shouldn't say this, lol, but I love Three's Company. This is my favorite show to watch. Some people look at me like I'm crazy. The show was hilarious. I my other favorite shows (Good Times, Sanford & Son, etc.) but Three's Company is what I watch in heavy rotation. My poor DH goes bonkers when he sees me watching it.

I have all of their episode on DVD and I watch all most every day. I still laugh like it's my first time seeing the show, but I miss show like these. It seems like the shows now are not good they days.

3. In my previous blog, I'm an Eastern Star. A dedicated member for 10 years. I love the order very much. I've learned so much and I have a lineage for Masons and Eastern Stars in my family.

I have been elevated up to the Daughters of Isis (Illustrious) and hopefully I can become a Sphinx in the near future.

My goal in the future is to start my own chapter. That is something I've always wanted to do and hopefully that dream will come true.

BTW: There are two SiStars that are getting SL soon.

To all my STARS and SQUARES, travel light.

4. I started a business called PURSEnalities. I make custom checkbook covers, tote bags and cigar box purses.

Since, my father passed in '05, I haven't been into my business like I should be. I do it every now and then or when I carry a bag or someone see my checkbook covers is where pretty much I get my business.

Being married (2 years) and the transition from a family of two to a family of six has really been keeping me busy and not having the time to focus on my business.

My goal is to take a few more graphic design classes and be up and running again by the end of 07.

Order of the Eastern Star

2007-03-04T18:42:00.000-08:00

I am a member of the Eastern Star. I've been a member for about 10 years. This a group picture. The chapter is very active and do alot of good in the community. Eastern Stars and Masons have been around for a very long time. I'm in the back (third from the left). My sister is in the front (third from left).

Retighten at 18 months and guess what?????

2007-02-17T10:01:00.000-08:00

My consultant gave me the thumbs up that I can get my hair colored. I am so happy and excited. You can't tell from a distance, but I have alot of gray hair. It's not something that just came, I've always had it as a young child. It's been almost close to two years since I put color in my hair so now the big questions is what type of color do I want. I want a color that stands out but not out there since I work at a law firm.

My consultant referred me to a specialist that only does color for natural hair. I will be making my appointment as soon as possible. So hopefully soon I will post a pic with my new color. Wish me luck.:)

Chicago SL Gathering

2007-02-12T06:44:00.000-08:00

I had a good time at our first Chicago SL Gathering. We ate at the Flat Top Grill and the food was very good. We had a big turn out. It was good to see the different styles and hear stories on their SLs. Hopefully we can have another gathering real soon. The pic was taken by Candace.

The day of our gathering was 18 months SLd for me. I go for a retigthening this weekend. Hopefuly, I will get the heads up getting color to my hair.

OBAMA - I'M RUNNING FOR PRESIDENT

2007-02-10T09:03:00.000-08:00

I was watching the Springfield announcement this morning and I'm so excited he is running. I do believe he has a chance of being the next president. A few of my friends says that "It's not his time." I believe it is his time. We definitely need a change and I believe he can do it.

I plan to volunteer as I did when he was running for Senator of Illinois. His headquarters is downtown Chicago which is where I work and I plan on contributing in any way to show my support.

GO BARACK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

My New Camera

2007-01-20T12:03:00.000-08:00

I've seen my SLers with some cool digital cameras, I wanted to post my new gadget. It is a SONY Cybershot DSC-W100 8.1 Megapixel. This is an awesome camera. My DH is into technology so he is an expert in any type of electronics. When he gave me the camera, I was like "How am I gonna work this, lol." It has so many features. I plan on learning as I go.

I took a picture of niece. My daughter braided her hair, so I decided to take a picture of her. Anyway, I'm happy with my new toy, lol.

Me and my niece.

2007-01-15T19:08:00.000-08:00

This is a pic of me and my niece. I call her Princess. She is two years old. Her hair is long and curly. She has some beautiful hair.

My sister, thankfully, will not be putting any type of chemicals in her hair. I doubt she will be putting any type of locs in her hair, but even without locs her hair will be in its natural state and will continue to grow and look beautiful.

As far as my hair, nothing different other than that I'm loving my hair each and every day.

Siiiing Celebrate, Sing Sing Celebrate - FOR A KING

2007-01-14T10:41:00.000-08:00

This is a tribute to a King. Tomorrow is the MLK Day. Every year I take this day off. Usually, I take this day to watch King documentaries on T.V. and listen to King tributes on the radio. It also gives me time to think and reflect how amazing this man was. I love talking to my elders who were a part of the King era and learn so much on what this man has done and what he did to promote equality in the world. My father fed my mind with so much knowledge in regards to the civil rights movement.

I remember when I was a little girl my parents took me and my sister to Atlanta. I remember like it was yesterday, we went to Ebenezer Baptist Church. We were outside taking pictures and guess who we saw. We saw Martin Luther King Sr. My father almost past out. He ask Mr. King Sr. for a picture which Mr. King was happy to do. My father was so nervous he dropped the camera like 5 times, lol. I shook Mr. King's hand. Back then I was young and was not elated as my father was, but now that I am an adult, I cherish and will always remember that encounter.

I was on You Tube and came arcoss the King Holiday video with the Fat Boys, Stephanie Mills, Menundo, Kurtis Blow, Run DMC, Lisa Lisa and Force MDs and my favorite group of all times, New Edition. I loved this video and is definitely a classic. I've been searching for this video and the album for years. Luckily I was on ebay and I saw three albums that are on sale that I plan to buy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XcBIJPVQvj8

Enjoy the video and pay homeage to Dr. King and other heros and sheros that have paved the way making an impact in the lives of others.

Happy New Year Everyone!!!

2007-01-03T18:01:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had a good Xmas and New Years. I did. My hubby planned a nice and romantic Xmas. The week of Xmas was a celebration of each day. Tuesday was a Celebration of Music (He bought me a $100 iPod gift card); Wednesday was Celebration of Laughter (He took me to a comedy club "Zanies"); Thursday was Celebration of Scents (He took me on a shopping spree to Bath and Body Works); Friday was Celebration of Friends (I took my girlfriends, sister and cousin out to dinner. We went to Bonefish); and the last day was Celebration of Promise (Making our lives and love together the best that he can with trust and commitment) and he also gave a beautiful balloon bouqet, a cool digital camera and money to go shopping, of course, lol. I must admit it was different and very beautiful and romantic and I am blessed to have this wonderful man, my soulmate, in my life forever. I love my husband very much.

As far as my hair, I will be SLd for 17 months January 8, 2007. My hair is doing very well. I clipped a few of my locks that were extremely longer than my hair. I'm trying to keep it bob length. I might let my hair grow to my shoulders. I also decided to put on a little make-up so I can look cute for the camera, lol.

My next appt. is in February and I might be able to get my hair colored. I can't wait. I haven't colored my hair since August 2005 so it definitely about time.

I have started using the Sisterlock Salon Formula Shampoo and I dont' care for it that much. I'm gonna stick with the Sisterlock Starter Shampoo. Has anyone had the same situation. Anyway, hope everyone have a good year.

Sisterlock at 16 months

2006-12-18T17:23:00.000-08:00

Wow, time has definitely flew by. I can't believe I've reached 16 months. I had my retightening and I received the new SL journal. My hair is getting longer and longer. I"ve been getting alot of compliments on my hair from alot of my friends. They say everytime I see them my hair is getting long. My step-daughter who did not like Sisterlocks at first say my hair is getting longer. Hopefully, I can work on her getting Sisterlocks, if not, start off with twists, etc.

Here are a couple of pics of me in my new coat (pre-Xmas gift). It's a Fox coat. It feels really good. You can probably see from the previous pics my hair is getting longer.

Merry Xmas, Happy Kwanzaa and Happy New Year to my SL fam.

I'm getting a puppy

2006-10-23T07:12:00.000-07:00

After MONTHS and MONTHS of searching, I finally found my doggie. The puppy was born last Monday. I will be getting a Maltese. The mother only had two babies (2 females). The breeder will be sending me pictures in a week or so. The only thing is I will not get her til around Xmas.:( But anyway, I'm glad my search is finally over.

Me and my baby sis

2006-10-22T10:32:00.000-07:00

This is a pic of me and my sister, Lil. We are very close. This was taken at my nephew's 13th birthday party. My sister and I are 2 1/2 years apart in age. (I'm 38 and she's 35)

My sister is natural as well. She has been one of my supporters with my Sisterlocks. She said she might get it, but will continue to wait to see how my progress is.

I thought the pic of Brunsli from Design-hergals.com was so cute that I got a shirt made of me and my sister. The pics sorta of look like me and my sister. I'm more of the "Plain Jane" (no make up, jeans, just plain as can be, lol) and I'm always on the computer 24/7.

My sister is more of a Ms. Prissy (diamonds, always shopping, and dresses up just to go to the grocery store, lol). My sister thought it was real cute.

As far as my hair progress, I will be approaching 14 month in November. My hair is continuing to grow and I go for a retightening on Friday. When I get my hair retigtened I see the growth. I've been thinking about curling my hair with the soft spike rollers but I don't think my hair is long enough just yet. Maybe I'll do it after my retigtening.

SiSTARS of the Light

2006-10-11T18:07:00.000-07:00

I am a member of the Order of the Eastern Star. I've been an active member for almost 15 years. It is a great organization. I enjoy being a part of a group of professional and caring women. We definitely have alot of love for each other.

My real sister is the last one of the right. She is natural also. My chapter, Ida Chapter #546, do alot. We do fundraisers, hold social events and do alot of community service. We have won many awards for our accomplishments and we keep getting stronger and stronger. We are 30+ women and we keep growing. One of my highlights was crossing the desert into "Daughters of IsIs. I am so happy to be "Illustrious." To all my "SiStars", travel light.

Vegas will have to wait

2006-09-28T10:39:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately, I will not be going to Vegas. My DH has some health issues and it doesn't make sense to go and he is not 100%. So we decided to go some time next year, which I am cool with so we can work on getting him well.

My No. 1 priority is getting him well so Vegas will still be there next year.:) Thanks everyone for your input.

So I took Door #1 - I went on a MAD AND CRAZY SHOPPING SPREE, lol.

What the !#$#%@!

2006-09-27T18:51:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I was running my fingers through my hair, which I do daily, lol, and I came across a broken loc. I almost passed out, lol. I don't know what happened. When I went home, I tried to look for it. I wonder what caused that to happened. I have for the most part been wearing my hair freestyle. I haven't been maniupating my hair at all. Hopefully, I will not have any more broken locs.

Other than that, my hair is doing pretty good. I've bee SLd for 13 months. Two years can't get here fast enough.

My Son's B-Day

2006-09-23T20:30:00.000-07:00

Today is my son's (Receo) 15th birthday. Wow, how time flies. Just seems like yesterday that I gave birth to him. He is so happy that he can pick me up, his hands are bigger than mines and he can't wait til he is taller than me. I told him "That's ok, I can still knock you out if I have too, I don't care how strong or tall you get," lol. Anyway, I am very proud of him and I am enjoying every moment with him cause I know that he will be leaving soon.

No matter what he will alway be my baby bull.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!!!!

2006-09-18T10:35:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone:

Today I am celebrating my 38th birthday. Whoa, how time flies, lol. Here is a pic of me dollied up. I rarely wear make-up. I'm a straight up tomboy, lol. My husband gave me two choices for my b-day: Door No. 1 - shopping spree or Door #2 - Trip to Vegas. This was hard for me to decide, lol. So I picked Vegas. So we are going the weekend of Oct. 13. I'm so excited, I never been to Vegas so my husband is letting me pick the hotel of my choice. Even though I picked Vegas I'm gonna still do some shopping, lol. There so many beautiful hotels I don't know which one to pick. Any suggestions?

My Daddy

2006-09-09T07:46:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to post and talk about my daddy because he's been constant on my mind. This picture was taken on my 18th birthday, September 18, 1986. My dad past away last year March 7, 2005. I miss him dearly. My father was a GREAT MAN. He was a wonderful father, husband and entrepenuer. My father was very successful. When things were against him when it came to providing for his family he stepped out on faith and in 1982 open his own video business (remember "BETA" movies, lol). Within two years my father opened up seven stores in the Chicagoland/Suburban area. Not only I looked up to my dad, but my friends did as well. My father was EVERYBODY'S father. One thing, I admired about my father was helping people. He was a humble and caring man. He helped so many people. To this day, I run into alot of people and they tell me how my faher helped them get a job, got them off the streets, etc. It made me feel proud. I thank God for having such a wonderful man raise, nuture and make me the woman I am today. I started my own business a couple of years ago and since my father's passing, I stopped. I'm taking classes to re-start and further my business because I know that's what my father would want me to do, but it is hard to have someone that has been in your life for 37 years and they are no longer there but I know that I will see my father again. My father died of kidney failure. He was on dialysis for 20 years. The life expectancy is 5-10 years. My father was rare to last that long and I'm very thankful. Two things my father wanted to witness was me getting married (my father past away 3 months prior to my wedding, but he gave his blessings) and see my son (his namesake) graduate but I know he was looking down and smiling. One song that reminds me of my dad is the song "Daddy" by Beyonce. It really helps me alot to be blessed to have had a wonderful man in my life. There is no one else like my Daddy.

My Hair Retigthen Yesterday

2006-09-09T07:22:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I went to get my hair retighten and for my consultant to see if I was retightening my hair correctly. There were a few that she came across that the pattern was wrong but it wasn't alot. She says I'm doing pretty good. I am having sort of a difficult time retightening the front part. Somehow I can't tighten it to the scalp. The back of my hair I tighten real good but the front is always loose.

So I went to my consultant and she did the front and the back in 4 hours and I have 560 locs. Until I get better at tighten my hair in the front I will be going back to her to work on the front. After my consultant was done, I defintely saw alot of length in my hair. I like my hair when it is retighten. I"m anxious to see how long my hair will be when I have my appt. in Oct.

BTW: Today I have been SL for 13 months:)

Princess Cruise

2006-08-22T08:53:00.000-07:00

In June, my husband and I went on a Cruise, Princess Caribbean. We went to St. Thomas, St. Marteen and Princess Cays. We had a wonderful time. Seven days in total bliss.

We ate so much on the ship, did alot of eating and enjoying perfect weather. There was no rain the entire cruise. Our cruise was for 7 days.

On the ship, we entered a dance contest. We did a salsa routine. They gave us outfits to wear and we did an excellent job. I was definitely into it.

The Princess Cruise ship was absolutely beautiful. It was just like being in an expensive hotel. We was on Deck 11 with a beautiful view. We had a mini suite with a balcony view. This photo is the middle of the ship. Every night they have movie night at midnight. Its called "Movie Under the Stars." It was very romantic sitting outside and watching movie. They had the nerve to show the movie "Titanic", lol. Nobody watched that movie that night, lol.

At the ports we did some touring, kayaking and power snorkeling for the first time. I was scared at first because I don't know how to swim, but I had on a safety jacket. We snorkel at St. Maarten. We took a banana boat to a little island to power snorkel. After being in the water for a while I wasn't scared anymore. I power snorkeled all over the place and had alot of fun. Unfortunately, I ran into a coral reef and had scabs all over my leg. So I have souvenirs on my legs to remind me of St. Maarten, lol.

After being banged up from power snorkeling, we spent the rest of the afternoon on the beach. It was absolutely beautiful. The water was a pretty clear blue. The sand were white and the palm trees looked absolutely beautiful. Everything, I imagined. I got alot of compliment on my SLs. I really enjoyed myself. Next year, we plan to go to Hawaii. I can't wait.

I love retigtening my hair and my SL Journal

2006-08-21T13:18:00.000-07:00

I took my retightening class back in May. Unfortunately, I left confused and still didn’t understand how to do my own hair. I was taught how to use the hook but not the tool because I was told that hook was much easier to use. Well at first I liked the hook, but sometimes my hair would get caught in the hook and I would have pieces of my hair in the hook. At my appt with my new consultant, I spoke to the one and only, Dr. Cornwell on the telephone. I told her my experience at the retightening class. She offered to me another free retightening class which I went to and I was happy and understood how the do my hair. I was taught the SL hook and SL tool. Which one do I prefer? I prefer the SL tool. After practice for a while I FINALLY GOT THE HANG OF IT, lol. I retighten my hair all the time and I enjoy doing it. I do a few at a time at home, work and on the train. I measured my hair with a ruler. My hair is about 7-8 inches. My hubby says my arms will be stronger from retightening, lol.

I also received my SL Journal. I was so happy to receive it. I missed the first issue which I hope I can somehow get a copy of. I carry my journal with me all the time. Chicago is representing in the recent journal with Cherie, Arlanda, Darryl and Beverly. I can't wait til the next issue comes out. Sorry that the pics are blurry. Time to get another camera.:)

My One Year Anniversary

2006-08-13T07:00:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone:

I know its been a long, long time since I updated my site. Well, August 8th was my 1st year anniversary. I am so happy. I finally made it. As of today, my hair stregth its about 10 inches. Not stretgh, its about 7 inches. My hair has definitely grown. I had a problem with slippage but it has been fixed. I can't wait til my hair is fully locked. I am looking forward to next August to see how my hair will be.

I will try to update more.:)

Soft Spike Rollers - The next day

2006-01-10T07:16:00.000-08:00

Here is a pic of me the day after using my soft spike rollers. They are still very tight. I will see how long my curls will last. My consultant told me to try not to curl my hair alot so it won't interfer with my hair locing. I'm cool with that. I plan to use the spike rollers one a month depending on how long the curls hold up.:)

Soft Spike Rollers - The results

2006-01-10T07:08:00.000-08:00

Here are the results. I don't know if you can see my hair real good. When I took the rollers out there were SUPER tight which I expected. I took a hot-steamed shower to loosen the curls.

Here is a picture of me (center), my mother (left) and my sister. We had a good time. Both my mother and sister are natural as well.

Soft Spike Rollers - Giving It A Shot

2006-01-06T17:37:00.000-08:00

I couldn't wait til I got home to curl my hair with the soft spike rollers. I'm going to my Eastern Star Xmas party and I wanted to do something different with my hair.

I put about 40 curlers in my hair. I only added rosewater to my hair. I didn't want to take any chances adding products to my hair yet because I haven't reached my 6 months yet. Since my hair is short I know they will be kind of tight. Let's see what happens tomorrow. Good night.=)

No Braiding and Banding

2006-01-01T16:52:00.000-08:00

When I got my hair retightned, I asked my consultant if I still have to braid and band. So told me to try after my second shampoo. I washed my hair without braiding and banding and here are the results. I hope that I don't have to braid and band no more.:)

Me and Rae Lewis-Thornton

2005-12-30T23:11:00.000-08:00

I had a faboulous time at the Masquerade Party which was sponsored by the AIDS Foundation of Chicago. Guest speaker was Rae Lewis-Thornton the woman that has HIV/AIDS. She gave an exceptionally speech and telling us as African women how important it is for us to get checked and to protect ourselves. This woman is phenomenal and a true fighter. She was selling a new book entitled "Amazing Grace." I can't wait to start reading it.

You can't really see my hair but it was in a updo. It was raining and my curls fell in the front. I'm gonna wash my hair tomorrow. On consultant told me to wash my hair without banding and see what happens.

My updo

2005-12-29T20:19:00.000-08:00

This is my attempt with a updo. It looks cute in the back but I need a little bit more length at the top. Me and my soror are going to a Masquerade Party tomorrow night. I braided the front of my hair to have some type of curls in the front. I will take pics when I am all dollied up:)

My Hubby

2005-12-29T20:14:00.000-08:00

This is my hubby. Although he prefers long hair, he has been very supportive and patient during my journey. This pic was taken when I was in transition (wearing micorbraids).

Retigtening

2005-12-28T20:47:00.000-08:00

This past Saturday I had my hair retightened. I missed my appt in November so when I got my hair retigtened on Sunday I had alot of new growth. It took about 8 hours. I'm 4 month into my journey and I'm enjoying it.

My Princess

2005-12-11T18:31:00.000-08:00

This is my one and only niece. Laila. Isn't she adorable. That is my hear. Everyone says she looks like me. Here is a pic of her in her ballerina outfit. My sister is gonna keep her hair natural.

SLd 4 Month

2005-12-11T18:20:00.000-08:00

Finally, I thought it would never get here. I have been locked for 4 months. I have seen alot of changes in the my hair. My hair is growing rapidly, my hair is full and I can feel that the back of hair is locking then the front. I'm always playing in my hair. I can't wait til I reach a year. Sorry for the blurry pics, my son took this picture.

Sisterlocked

2005-12-11T18:09:00.000-08:00

August 9, 2005 was the day I got my hair locked. It took me 3 days and I have 578 locs. I think I started off with about 3 inches of new growth. Wearing microbraids for over a year did some damage to my hair. I wore a headband for about a month because of the MAJOR parts. My locks were done by Tonya. :)

Out with the perm, in with the microbraids

2005-12-11T17:57:00.000-08:00

My last perm was April 2004. I relapsed twice, but this time I was determined to go through with it. At the time I didn't know what I wanted to do with my hair but after so much damage I decided to let it grow out. I started wearing microbraids for a little over a year. Here is a pic of me and my D.I.V.A.S (Dynamic, Intelligent, Versatile, Accomplished, Sistahs), daugher, Bre, my son, Receo and my sister, Lilly.

My relaxer dazes

2005-12-11T17:36:00.000-08:00

This is a picture of me a couple of years ago. I've always had long hair and this was my style (french row). I wore this hairstyle out. It was something that was low maintenance and didn't require me to do my hair in the morning. Also another hairstyle that I use to wear was crimps. Unfortunately, using the crimp iron (which were EXTREMELY HOT) my hair lost its fullness. This is a pic of me being crown "Ms. Illinois" of the Order of Eastern Star, M.F.A.M. Hello to all my SiStars.:)