tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44516830746109536732024-03-13T13:41:27.301-07:00Love, Life, and LocksReflecting on who I am, what I think, what I feel, and what I experience.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14165943992020502396noreply@blogger.comBlogger77125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4451683074610953673.post-53792340701529558112018-04-18T19:28:00.001-07:002018-04-18T19:35:30.471-07:00Shop My ClosetShop My Closet for deals on waist belts. All belts are $3. Click the link below to purchase the belts you would like. Please share this post with others who may be interested.<br />
<br />
Comment below the belt you would like. Once I reply you can click the Paypal link to purchase item and pay shipping. Shipping is based on your location.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/dsUjoirYJ4k/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dsUjoirYJ4k?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14165943992020502396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4451683074610953673.post-7007625455920693432017-05-20T17:41:00.000-07:002017-05-20T17:41:20.485-07:00Summer Reading 2017<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<img src="cid:C90CC01C-5601-4C17-B5D0-904311604CF4@mobilenotes.apple.com" /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
This summer I'm challenging myself to read more books. Last year alone I didn't read anything outside of work obligations. My book club was also inactive so I wasn't even worrying. Now did I pick up books last year? Yes. But I never finished them. My book club is back active now. I no longer have tv at home or unlimited wifi. And during the summer I don't have to mosey in to a workplace, so I get 8 weeks of do-with-your-time-what-you-want. All of these factors I'm sure play a role in what I make time for. So far this year I've read Another Brooklyn (verse), We Love You Charlie Freeman, The Couple Next Door (psychological), 40 Acres (psychological), Around the Way Girl (memoir), and Unashamed (memoir audiobook). My goal for the year on Goodreads is 12 Books but I'm going to increase it to 34 total. </div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'm going to enjoy reading All Summer 17. I just got an idea just now while typing this post. Since it's 2017, I should read 17 books instead of the 16 I was planning. I really don't like odd numbers. So I'm going to stick to 16 and if I manage an extra one then so be it. But I'm only planning for 16. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Summer Reading Challenge<br />
<div>
2 books a week= 16 books to read in 8 Weeks</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
#SummerReading</div>
<div>
1. Everything, Everything </div>
<div>
2. All the Little Pieces (psychological)</div>
<div>
3. The Shining</div>
<div>
4. Landlines </div>
<div>
5. Blink</div>
<div>
6. Tipping Point</div>
<div>
7. Things I Should Have Told My Daughters (memoir)</div>
<div>
8. One of Us is Lying (psychological </div>
<div>
9. What it Means When a Man Falls from the Sky (short story)</div>
<div>
10. Engagement Game (love)</div>
<div>
11. If I Loved you I Would Tell You This (short story)</div>
<div>
12. 10-10-10</div>
<div>
13. We Are Only Taking What We Need</div>
<div>
14. No One is Coming to Save Us </div>
<div>
15. Mid Adventures of an Awkward Black Girl (audio)</div>
<div>
16. Black Privelege (audio)</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I will be reading book #1 first but the other book will be read in random order. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Share with me if you have read any of these books. Also share with me what books you are reading this summer. If we happen to read the same book, I'd be so thrilled to discuss with you. What's a book if we can't talk about it with someone? </div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14165943992020502396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4451683074610953673.post-17446471840496588212017-04-05T20:04:00.003-07:002017-04-05T20:04:47.231-07:00Teach MeTeach Me<br />
Teach me how to forget you.<br />
Teach me how not to think of you when thinking is subconscious and each time it purposely involves you.<br />
Teach me how not to remember your scent, the way you looked when you were serious,<br />
the way your eyes widened when you were excited.<br />
Teach how to forget the sound of your laughter, your breath brushing pass my cheek, the soft whisper in my ear, and the three sweet numbers rolling from your lips (143)<br />
<br />
Teach me how to numb the ends of these severed emotions.<br />
Teach me how not to see your smile in my mind.<br />
Teach me how not to long for your warm touch.<br />
Teach me how to move on when there's nothing left to have.<br />
Teach me to not keep you as a lingering reminder of what I lost, what I could have had, what I wasn't good enough for, what I messed up, what chance I lost.<br />
Teach me how to rewrite this story where in the end the tears are of joy.<br />
<br />
Teach me how not to compare any new to the oldness of you.<br />
Teach me how not to remember us, the good times, the bad times, the plans made, the time spent.<br />
Teach me not to anticipate your return.<br />
Teach me how to know that it is okay not having you around.<br />
Teach me how not to read then reread each letter you sent.<br />
<br />
Teach me to undeclare our song so that when it plays there is no slate of memories<br />
Teach me how not to be so critical when it was just you being cynical<br />
Teach me how to forget about you like you forgot about me.<br />
<br />
-J. Renee<br />
<br />
I hope you all are enjoying #NaPoWriMo #NationalPoetryMonth. I will also be posting my favorite poets.<br />
<br />
<br />
I wrote this poem in 2010. Coming back to it now... it still holds truth and I'm sure many people can relate. Let me know your favorite lines in the comments.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14165943992020502396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4451683074610953673.post-36289757289332752332017-04-05T17:34:00.001-07:002017-04-05T17:34:11.251-07:00I Love to CookI<span style="color: #454545; font-family: uictfonttextstylebody; font-size: 17px;"> love to cook and I love beautiful food! I saw this picture on Instagram last year and I decided I was going to make it. I had forgotten about the recipe until recently. I did use some substitutes for the recipe. I will share both in this post. Also feel free to modify your recipe as needed. I was working with what I had already stocked without having to make a trip to the grocery store. </span><br />
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<b>Maple</b> <b>Sweet Potato Chicken Meatballs </b></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<b>Ingredients</b>:</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
1 lb ground chicken </div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
1 C Spinach </div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
1/2 C Sweet potato</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
3 tbs White onion</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
1 Garlic clove</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
1/4 C water</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
1 tsp olive oil</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
1 tbs Maple syrup (honey and maple syrup)</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
1 tsp Soy sauce (liquid amino)</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
1 tsp Cinnamon</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
Pepper to taste</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
Salt to taste</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
4 dashes of Nutmeg</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
1/4 tsp Sage (didn't use)</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<b>Maple Syrup Glaze</b>:</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
1/4 C Maple syrup</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
1/4 C Chicken broth (Vanilla Almond Milk)</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
1 tbs Corn Starch (Rice flour/potato starch mixture)</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
1 tbs Soy sauce (liquid amino)</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
1/8 tsp cayenne</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<b>Directions:</b></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
1. Preheat oven to 400. Rinse sweet potato, wrap in aluminum foil and place in the oven for 30 minutes. </div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
2. Cut up onions, garlic, and spinach</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
3. Sauté the spinach, onions, and garlic ingredients on the stove with 1 tbs of olive oil. Add 1/4 C of water. Cook until water evaporates. </div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
4. Mix ground chicken, cinnamon, maple syrup, salt, pepper, nutmeg, olive oil, and soy sauce</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
5. Cut up pieces of the sweet potato and add to the meat mixture. Add the cooked spinach to the mixture. Do not over mix. </div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
6. Form the meatballs and place them onto an oiled pan. Meatballs should at minimum be one inch in size. </div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
7. Place meatballs in the oven to cook for fifteen minutes at 425.</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
8. Mix all the ingredients for the maple syrup glaze. </div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
9. After fifteen minutes take out the meatballs and flip them over. Coat each with the glaze. Place back into the oven for 5 more minutes.</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
10. Scoop up the glaze in the bottom of the pan and pour over the meatballs. Enjoy!</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
I paired my meatballs with black beans and the rest of the sweet potato. </div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
Let me know in the comments what you are going to pair your meatballs with.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://youtu.be/shz3J6p9Q70">VEDA Day 5 | I Love to Cook| ibyl</a></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14165943992020502396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4451683074610953673.post-63900983512214468222016-04-21T18:30:00.002-07:002016-04-21T19:10:59.313-07:00He Brought the FUNK to the Dome<span style="color: #454545; font-family: "uictfonttextstylebody"; font-size: 17px;">On our feet</span><br />
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
Rocking from side to side.</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
Feel good music blasting through our left and right ear drum.</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
Catching beats,</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
reminiscing about each memory the song took us back to.</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
Time stood still.</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
From face to face </div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
just happiness and love spread</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
throughout the Super Dome</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
and it was like without warning he was exiting.</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
Us, the whole crowd not ready for his departure started to hum.</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
It was like some unseen choir director had us on cue in unison humming Purple Rain.</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
We called him back not with our voices but with his music.</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
He heard us and came back out to bring more FUNK. </div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
His music is timeless. His music will always bring him back to us. </div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
#EssenceFest2014</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14165943992020502396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4451683074610953673.post-51947316165089086932016-04-17T09:03:00.001-07:002016-04-17T09:03:08.589-07:00Happy National Haiku Poetry Day- April 17thI wrote several haikus today to celebrate National Haiku Day. Enjoy! I challenge you to pen some haikus.<br />
#1<br />
Fears alter people<br />
Taking the less risky path<br />
to avoid what ifs<br />
<br />
#2<br />
She was his true love<br />
Stimulated her<br />
mind and her heart first<br />
<br />
#3<br />
<div id="AppleMailSignature" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px;">
Flows through my body<br />reacting to each target</div>
<div id="AppleMailSignature" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px;">
removing all pain</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14165943992020502396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4451683074610953673.post-44021616869104126622016-03-31T20:54:00.001-07:002016-03-31T20:57:44.317-07:00Vulnerability<br />
Tomorrow is the beginning of National Poetry Writing Month. The challenge is to write a poem a day for all 30 days in April. Anyone up for the challenge? I will be writing daily and I will be posting some of my poems here on the blog. Below is me oiling up my poetic gears. Each time I pick up a pen to write it always feels like something takes control.<br />
<br />
Vulnerability<br />
Letting you see the tears that flow from a place of shame and hurt<br />
<div>
Vulnerability</div>
<div>
Drawing closer to you with each thought and confessing that your well being and bringing you joy makes my world seem more than just all right </div>
<div>
Vulnerability </div>
<div>
Admitting when I'm wrong even when I'd convinced myself that I am never wrong </div>
<div>
Vulnerability </div>
<div>
Allowing you to be there next to me in the moments and places in which I don't even want to be there. </div>
<div>
Vulnerability </div>
<div>
Uncovering the growing pains of learning more about myself</div>
<div>
Vulnerability </div>
<div>
Releasing the urge to always be in control and planned</div>
<div>
Vulnerability </div>
<div>
Trusting to share my dreams and aspirations </div>
<div>
Vulnerability </div>
<div>
Giving my time and energy </div>
<div>
Vulnerability </div>
<div>
Exposing myself over and over to the possibilities of being embraced or rejected. </div>
<div>
Vulnerability </div>
<div>
Swallowing the mouthful of what point I wanted to make even when no point needed to be made.</div>
<div>
Vulnerability </div>
Accepting help and advice and not just depending on myself<br />
<div>
<div>
Vulnerability </div>
<div>
Saying a thing in which could make you seem brilliant or completely stupid but saying it anyway</div>
<div>
Vulnerability </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
J Renee</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14165943992020502396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4451683074610953673.post-60219812011856517852016-03-26T17:41:00.001-07:002016-03-26T17:52:29.618-07:007 Things I've Learned about LocsMarch 22 marked 7 years since I started my Sisterlock Journey. I still can't believe it has been that long. This journey has brought many joys and slight challenges. Either way I think it's one of the best hair decisions I have made. Every journey takes a period of getting use to. The <span style="color: #783f04;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=737k_4GUg1U" target="_blank">locing</a> </span>process has taken getting use to a new outlook on hair and its many transformations, a new way of maintaining, and a new way of style that shows its versatility. Click any loc word to find a video from my loc journey.<br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">1. </span></b><span style="color: #783f04;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ysUp2mZEHY" target="_blank">Locs</a></span> can be transformed into just about any way you want it to look. <span style="color: #783f04;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Sbi9GfWXiM" target="_blank">Locs</a></span> are versatile and I'm still amazed at the different styles I've been able to achieve and the different styles I've seen people rock.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>2. </b></span><span style="color: #783f04;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ysl5k8DzSlY" target="_blank">Locs</a></span> are low maintenance but not no maintenance.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>3.</b></span> Everyone's <span style="color: black;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VdTbQ5GL-qo" target="_blank">locs</a></span> are all unique. There are no to heads of<span style="color: #783f04;"> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=euT09nkSOj8" target="_blank">locs</a></span> that are exactly the same and respond exactly the same way to the same<span style="color: #783f04;"> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a2R3uVeTxRk" target="_blank">loc</a></span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a2R3uVeTxRk" target="_blank"> </a>care.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>4. </b></span><span style="color: #783f04;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=73ndMTMFIHo" target="_blank">Locs</a> </span>can be both freeing and restrictive. It all just depends on your perspective.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>5.</b></span> In order to enjoy your <span style="color: #783f04;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cZ0D-SyGJxw" target="_blank">loc</a> </span>journey you just got to have fun with your hair. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>6. </b></span><span style="color: #783f04;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MGEZmpwhC14" target="_blank">Locs</a></span> will grow at their own pace no matter how hard you wish and dream the growth to speed up. Focus on healthy <span style="color: #783f04;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=poQy6y0ZC14" target="_blank">locs</a></span> not just long locs.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>7.</b></span> Know that your <span style="color: #783f04;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fudCsrBonNE">locs</a></span> are not going to be perfect but love each <span style="color: #783f04;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LNwqIxfsNjo" target="_blank">loc</a></span> anyway.</span><br />
<br />
<br />
Below are pictures and videos from each year of my Sisterlock Journey.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gTQG-opDAH4/VvcjVlAXR2I/AAAAAAAABE4/rJzFcOo13ww-FLQdJPWMcPd6q2azbclZg/s1600/IMG_8772.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="361" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gTQG-opDAH4/VvcjVlAXR2I/AAAAAAAABE4/rJzFcOo13ww-FLQdJPWMcPd6q2azbclZg/s400/IMG_8772.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Mob-IAX6XLk/VvcjcVX-3RI/AAAAAAAABE8/TOf3Ykjl450Ly3wRzPMxV5z-A6PfOUYhA/s1600/IMG_8748.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Mob-IAX6XLk/VvcjcVX-3RI/AAAAAAAABE8/TOf3Ykjl450Ly3wRzPMxV5z-A6PfOUYhA/s400/IMG_8748.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/1vzCRXK5JCY/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1vzCRXK5JCY?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
Connect with me across all social media.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14165943992020502396noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4451683074610953673.post-35858061867885100152015-12-20T23:33:00.001-08:002016-04-17T14:06:36.525-07:00The List: 32 While 32 This is my 32nd year. I have decided to create a list again, but this time it will include 32 things I want to do over the next 362 days. Look back at my previous list <a href="http://wittychiq.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2014-10-07T11:01:00-07:00&max-results=1&start=10&by-date=false" target="_blank">here</a>. I did not complete everything on my list but I did have fun with everything I did do. I have more friends on board holding me accountable this time around. I actually was able to complete an item on my list today (12/20/2015). More than anything this is a list that reminds me to seek new experiences and enjoy life. You only hit 32 once so living it up is a must. I encourage you to join me in this challenge. Create a list (any length you choose). Check off the items as you complete them. Have fun. Take Pictures/ videos.<br />
<br />
I will be updating as I complete items. I'm excited and looking forward to this year and all the joys it will bring. Follow me on twitter and instagram as well under the hashtag #32while32.<br />
<br />
<div class="body undoreset" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450683006340_2351" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; display: table; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; padding-left: 0px; padding-top: 12px; width: 1344px;" tabindex="0">
<div class="email-wrapped" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450683006340_2350" style="display: table-cell; width: auto; word-break: break-word; word-wrap: break-word;">
<div id="yiv5958297200">
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450683006340_2349">
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450683006340_2366">
32 While 32 List (Dec. 17, 2015- Dec. 17, 2016)</div>
<div id="yiv5958297200AppleMailSignature">
<br /></div>
<div id="yiv5958297200AppleMailSignature">
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450683006340_2352" style="color: #454545;">
1. Sail across ocean in Los Angeles </div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450683006340_2348" style="color: #454545;">
2. See and Walk across the San Francisco bridge </div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450683006340_2380" style="color: #454545;">
3. Volunteer 32 hours various places</div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450683006340_2381" style="color: #454545;">
4. Learn to knit an item</div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450683006340_2382" style="color: #454545;">
5. Read at least 32 books</div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450683006340_2383" style="color: #454545;">
6. Donate to 3 charities</div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450683006340_2384" style="color: #454545;">
7. Take dad on a trip</div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450683006340_2385" style="color: #454545;">
8. Test drive a BMW</div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450683006340_2386" style="color: #454545;">
9. Add decor to apt. walls</div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450683006340_2387" style="color: #454545;">
<strike>10. Photo shoot (as photographer) </strike>12/20/15</div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450683006340_2388" style="color: #454545;">
11. Photo shoot (as photographed)</div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450683006340_2389" style="color: #454545;">
12. Host a themed dinner party</div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450683006340_2390" style="color: #454545;">
13. Start an IRA</div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450683006340_2391" style="color: #454545;">
14. Take a massage class?</div>
<div style="color: #454545;">
15. Finish the crochet quilt </div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450683006340_2392" style="color: #454545;">
16. Recite poetry live</div>
<div style="color: #454545;">
17. Speak in front of 100+ people</div>
<div style="color: #454545;">
18. Maintain blog (post biweekly)</div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450683006340_2393" style="color: #454545;">
19. Write 32 pages of my novel</div>
<div style="color: #454545;">
20. Take a yoga class</div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450683006340_2394" style="color: #454545;">
21. Write 32 poems in April</div>
<div style="color: #454545;">
22. Participate in a flash mob </div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450683006340_2395" style="color: #454545;">
23. Participate in at least two fun themed marathons</div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450683006340_2396" style="color: #454545;">
24. Go to a drive in movie</div>
<div style="color: #454545;">
25. Learn to play chess</div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450683006340_2397" style="color: #454545;">
26. Go camping</div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450683006340_2398" style="color: #454545;">
27. Give someone flowers for no reason</div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450683006340_2399" style="color: #454545;">
28. Visit Wine vineyard </div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450683006340_2400" style="color: #454545;">
29. Take a cooking class</div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450683006340_2401" style="color: #454545;">
30. Leave and/ or mail 32 random letters of inspiration for people to find (bulletin board, library book, etc.)</div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450683006340_2402" style="color: #454545;">
31. Keep a gratitude journal</div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450683006340_2403" style="color: #454545;">
32. Be spontaneous </div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14165943992020502396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4451683074610953673.post-14079168088508071982015-04-06T19:32:00.000-07:002015-04-06T19:32:01.459-07:00April 6 #NaPoWriMo<br />
I love participating in a poem a day for National Poetry Writing Month. I will post some of my poems on my blog and some I will just keep on paper. Feel free to comment and return for more.<br />
<br />
<br />
My Words<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">I pray that my words are soft pillows to your ears</span><br />
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
that they wrap you in warmth and comfort</div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
that they shield you from any harm or danger.</div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
they gird you above the mountains of disbelief</div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
they give you a firm post from which to lean on</div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
that they paint joy across the windows of your brain</div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
that my words press and imprint upon your every heart beat.</div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
that my words be </div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
life itself </div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
taking deep breaths</div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
overpowering any shallow whimpers that do not multiply</div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
my truth, </div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
my power, </div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
my love, and peace.</div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<b style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">© 2015 J Renee </span></b></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14165943992020502396noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4451683074610953673.post-4316715209638062122015-01-27T22:24:00.002-08:002015-01-27T22:24:40.050-08:00Vote for Me!<div style="text-align: center;">
I am a finalist in the Wrapaloc Contest. Vote for me! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.wrapaloc.com/" target="_blank">Click here to vote</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3vq8AcbifDo/VMiAf2kY-LI/AAAAAAAAA20/lmL3pKDG86M/s1600/FullSizeRender-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3vq8AcbifDo/VMiAf2kY-LI/AAAAAAAAA20/lmL3pKDG86M/s1600/FullSizeRender-6.jpg" height="368" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14165943992020502396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4451683074610953673.post-31914524258323985862015-01-16T19:33:00.000-08:002015-12-20T19:20:33.722-08:0030 While 30 Update <br />
<b><u>Send Me Mail</u></b><br />
I started the P.O Box in an effort to reach out to my Youtube subscribers and a way to direct order track for my crochet business. Send me mail!<br />
<br />
<b><u>Online Crochet Website</u></b><br />
In November I kicked started the online crochet website <a href="http://www.jreneecrochet.storenvy.com/" target="_blank">J Renee Crochet</a>. I have had a few orders since it opened. I was also able to offer some holiday discounts. The crochet website will continue to grow within this new year. I'm glad that in 2014 I was able to get my feet wet in starting the business. I have future aspirations of doing craft shows or salon shows.<br />
<br />
<u><b>Passport</b></u><br />
I was beyond excited applying for my passport. Even though I had printed the application in October, took the passport picture in early December, I finally applied during the last week of 2014. I missed by birthday deadline by twelve days. But it's in commute now. I am looking forward to receiving it soon.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Hosting a Dinner Party</u></b><br />
I hosted a Friendsgiving event with a few friends right before Thanksgiving. It was catered with traditional Thanksgiving foods. We had cauliflower au gratin, turkey, cranberry sensation, quinoa and broccoli casserole. It was delicious. I shared a pretty awesome announce and we just fellowshipped. A few of my friends I hadn't seen in weeks so we got an opportunity to catch up.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Visiting New Places</u></b><br />
I visited a lot of new places. I do not think I documented all the places I went. I did document at least 30. Below will be a picture collage of some of the awesome venues and eateries I visited.<br />
<br />
The places are in random order.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Babalu</div>
This is a restaurant in the midtown area of my hometown. They serve tacos and tapas. The atmosphere is nice and they play music overhead. When you order guacamole they come and prepare it at your table. Typing this and thinking about it makes me want to go back like NOW. I ordered three tacos on soft corn tortillas. I got the chicken and I got the shrimp. They looked mini but they filled me up.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><u>Volunteering</u></b><br />
Each volunteer experience I participated in was fun. The Ghouls at Grassmere was a Halloween event. Parents brought their little ones dressed up in costumes. Some of the parents dressed up as well. It was really adorable. I was feeling baby fever when i saw all the little ones and kept hearing them say, Trick or treat and thank you.<br />
<br />
During the Harvest Day event we were able to show the kids how to play some of the wooden toys from way back in the day. Some of the toys I actually had a chance to play with when I was younger, but the kids of today had no idea about those toys. It was volunteering but I was having fun seeing the smile on the kids faces. I had a chance to meet a lady who was part of the exhibit who offered to teach me to knit for free. Unfortunately I didn't get a chance to go back to the event a second day to take her up on that offer.<br />
<br />
<br />
Listed below are the many things that I did scratch off my list during 2014. There are a few things that I did not execute. I'm planning to add these items to my vision board/list for this year. It was great to do the list. It was a source of motivation for doing the things that I wanted to do.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">1. </span><strike style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Essence Festival</strike><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> 7/3/14 </span><a href="http://wittychiq.blogspot.com/2014/08/20th-annual-essence-music-festival.html" style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Essence blog post</a><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">2. </span><strike style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Try sushi </strike><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">4/12/14 and 12/6/14</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">3. </span><strike style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Revive and Maintain a public blog<strike> 3/2014 Ongoing</strike></strike><br />
<span style="background-color: yellow; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">4. Photo shoot</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">5. <strike>Get a passport </strike> applied 12/29/14</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">6.<strike> Go zip lining</strike> 9/20/14</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">7. </span><strike style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Go to a Heat game </strike><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">3/24/14</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">8. </span><strike style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">30 poems (NaPoWriMo2014)</strike><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> April/2014</span><br />
<span style="background-color: yellow; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">9. Start Ira</span><br />
<span style="background-color: yellow; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">10. Recite poem live</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">11.<strike> Start a P.O. Box 9/13/14</strike></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">12. Try 30 new hairstyles (17 out of 30)* messy bun, flat wist on both sides, style for peggy's b day, victory rolls, front bang, bun, new year's eve </span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: yellow; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">13. Travel to California</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">14.<strike> Host a dinner party Friendsgiving </strike>11/23/14</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">15. </span><strike style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Travel to Miami </strike><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">3/24/14</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">16. Try 30 new recipes (7 of 30) salmon, chicken salad, breakfast quesadilla</span><br />
<span style="background-color: yellow; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">17. Make a scrapbook</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">18. Visit 30 new places w/in and outside of city (19 out of 30)* zip line, african street festival, shakespeare in the park, italian lights festival, zoo, bar Louie's, Massage Envy, Babalu, the beauty shop, abuelos, Sips & Strokes</span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">19. <strike>Spa day (massage/nails) </strike>10/8/14</span><br />
<span style="background-color: yellow; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">20. Donate $300 to a charity or non profit foundation </span><br />
<span style="background-color: yellow; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">21. 10 random acts of kindness Grocery store $20/ Make hair accessory for CanadianQueen nieces</span><br />
<span style="background-color: yellow; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">22. Send 10 letters (friends and family) </span><br />
<span style="background-color: yellow; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">23. Read at least 10 books </span><br />
<span style="background-color: yellow; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">24. Complete a pinterest DIY project</span><br />
<span style="background-color: yellow; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">25. Write 30 pages of my novel</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">26. </span><strike style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Save $1,000 </strike><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">8/2014</span><br />
<span style="background-color: yellow; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">27. Gain X lb.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: yellow; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">28. Learn to knit</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">29. <strike>Start crochet website</strike> 11/7/14</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">30. <strike>Volunteer 10 hours to... various service projects</strike> 9/27 /14 (zoo) 8:30-2:30, 10/5/14 (NCT) 1:30-2:30 Ghouls at Grassmere 4:30-9:30 (zoo)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">I'm thrilled about the new </span><span style="color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">experiences set for 2015. Go along with me on this journey. Make your journey great as well. :-)</span></span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">#30While30 Check out the </span><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/ibyl/30while30/" style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Pinterest Board</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14165943992020502396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4451683074610953673.post-22970236667463148052014-11-07T06:00:00.000-08:002014-11-07T06:00:09.156-08:00Foodie Friday | Gluten Free Shrimp AlfredoWhen I restricted my diet to gluten free foods, I thought I would never be able to safely consume pasta again. The gluten free pasta looks like pasta and tastes like pasta, but it's made of corn and rice. I'm thankful for companies who have become more aware of dietary needs. I've been able to get back to my pasta dishes. Check out my <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/ibyl/gluten-free-foodierecipes/" target="_blank">Gluten Free Pinterest Board</a> for more GF foodie ideas.<br />
<br />
<br />
One evening I had been snacking and had waited quite late to start cooking something. This meal was cooked and served within 30 minutes and that includes the prep time. It was a super quick and easy recipe to make. Enjoy! Let me know below what you like to put in your pasta Alfredo dishes.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mypBpkFQE0k/VFW6lCdKHMI/AAAAAAAAA14/qY0teLornzM/s1600/shrimp%2Balfredo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mypBpkFQE0k/VFW6lCdKHMI/AAAAAAAAA14/qY0teLornzM/s1600/shrimp%2Balfredo.jpg" height="271" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<center>
<b>Gluten Free Shrimp Alfredo</b></center>
<br />
<br />
This recipe was made just for me. I was able to get three servings.<br />
<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Barilla GF Pasta (2 cups)</li>
<li>Orange pepper (1/8 cup)</li>
<li>Carrots (1/4 cup)</li>
<li>Frozen Shrimp (20 shrimp)</li>
<li>Private Selection Alfredo sauce ( I love all things Private Selection) (1 1/2 cups)</li>
<li>Broccoli (1/2 cup)</li>
<li>Black Pepper (tsp)</li>
<li>Salt (tsp)</li>
<li>Fresh chopped garlic (two cloves)</li>
<li>Olive oil (6 tbsp)</li>
</ul>
<br />
<b>Directions:</b><br />
<br />
*The first three steps are done simultaneously<br />
1. Bring two cups of water to a boil and add pasta. Let cook for 12 minutes. Add salt.<br />
2. Heat a skillet with olive oil (enough to cover the bottom). Add thawed shrimp, chopped garlic, carrots.<br />
3. Boil broccoli in a little water for 6 minutes and drain water.<br />
4. Stir the pasta occasionally. After ten minutes rinse and drain water. Sit to the side.<br />
5. Brown shrimp on both sides. Add broccoli to skillet with the shrimp.<br />
6. Mix the ingredients in the skillet with the pasta. Add 1 1/2 cups of Alfredo sauce.<br />
7. Let simmer for 5 minutes over low heat covered with lid.<br />
<br />
Comment below with what ingredients you like to include in your pasta Alfredo. Also let me know if you have any questions.<br />
#FoodieFridayAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14165943992020502396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4451683074610953673.post-27810936724508492012014-10-24T06:00:00.000-07:002014-10-24T06:00:03.938-07:00Foodie Friday | Chicken SaladI have been making chicken salad for a while, but I always switch it up a bit to try different taste and it's also based on what ingredients I have at home. I rarely plan out making chicken salad. What usually happens is I have left overs and chicken salad evolves from the leftovers.<br />
Check out my <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/ibyl/gluten-free-foodierecipes/" target="_blank">Gluten Free Pinterest Board</a> for more GF foodie ideas.<br />
<br />
<br />
The chicken salad can serve as a lunch meal or as just a snack. It can be prepared in less than 15 minutes and that includes the prep time. It was a super quick and easy recipe to make. Enjoy! Let me know below what you like to put in your chicken salad dishes.<br />
<br />
<br />
<center>
<b>Gluten Free Chicken Salad</b></center>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A3qCZUEPR-Q/VDTcGTFsDaI/AAAAAAAAAzc/0VmaiJKu3kU/s1600/IMG_2759.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A3qCZUEPR-Q/VDTcGTFsDaI/AAAAAAAAAzc/0VmaiJKu3kU/s1600/IMG_2759.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
This recipe was made just for me. I was able to get 2 servings.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>Previously cooked chicken breast (1 cup)</li>
<li>Craisins (1/8 cup)</li>
<li>Chopped onions (1/8 cup)</li>
<li>Chopped Pecans (1/8 cup)</li>
<li>Black Pepper (tsp)</li>
<li>Fresh chopped celery (1/8 cup)</li>
<li>Whipped Cream Cheese (2 tbsp)</li>
<li>Turmeric (tsp)</li>
<li>Mayonnaise (3 tbsp)</li>
<li>Honey (optional drizzle)</li>
</ul>
<br />
<b>Directions:</b><br />
<br />
1. Chop chicken breast<br />
2. Mix in pepper, turmeric, celery, onions, pecans, and Craisins with the chicken.<br />
2. Mix in cream cheese.<br />
3. Mix in mayonnaise.<br />
4. Let sit in the refrigerator and cool.<br />
* I added a little drizzle of honey to the last mixing.<br />
<br />
<br />
Comment below with what ingredients you like to include in your chicken salad. Also let me know if you have any questions.<br />
#FoodieFridayAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14165943992020502396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4451683074610953673.post-18604545083060176122014-10-22T06:00:00.000-07:002014-10-22T06:00:04.503-07:00Wet Polish Wednesday <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5848ke6KY5I/VDR86sonLaI/AAAAAAAAAy4/vWC00cuqRJo/s1600/WETPOLISHWEDNESDAY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5848ke6KY5I/VDR86sonLaI/AAAAAAAAAy4/vWC00cuqRJo/s1600/WETPOLISHWEDNESDAY.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Welcome to the second segment of Wet Polish Wednesday! Tune in on Wednesdays to see what nail polish and nail art I am rocking. All designs are done by me. I find inspirations on Pinterest, IG, and any other ideas I see.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dtlCzmxYEWA/VDR_i5YMARI/AAAAAAAAAzE/5xckHkenOyk/s1600/IMG_2673.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dtlCzmxYEWA/VDR_i5YMARI/AAAAAAAAAzE/5xckHkenOyk/s1600/IMG_2673.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
This week I decided to redo a design I had done a few years ago. I love polka dots and I love coloring just the tips of my nails. I combined both of those loves into the nail polish design. Check out my <a href="http://www.instagram.com/ibyl" target="_blank">IG</a> page as well as my nail <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/ibyl" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> board for other nail art and inspiration. #WetPolishWednesdays<br />
<br />
I used a homemade dotting tool to do the white polka dots. Comment below if you want to know how I made it.<br />
<br />
L.A. Colors Art Deco (black)<br />
L.A. Colors Art Deco (yellow)<br />
Kiss Brush on Nail Art Paint (silver)<br />
L.A. Colors Color Craze (black)<br />
Julep Oxygen clear base coat<br />
Sally Hansen Advanced Hard as Nails (white)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qYCx64So1GU/VDR_qo36quI/AAAAAAAAAzM/IG2ke3BzaEE/s1600/IMG_2667.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qYCx64So1GU/VDR_qo36quI/AAAAAAAAAzM/IG2ke3BzaEE/s1600/IMG_2667.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Leave a comment below and let me know your thoughts about the nail polish or if you have any questions.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14165943992020502396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4451683074610953673.post-6850163549364372202014-10-18T18:41:00.002-07:002014-10-22T21:34:33.443-07:00GRWM Retro Edition| Collab with Locs of Love<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-74ZFzeFxEqY/VEMU3uteObI/AAAAAAAAA1I/4YdLPRLb_Mc/s1600/retrostyle%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-74ZFzeFxEqY/VEMU3uteObI/AAAAAAAAA1I/4YdLPRLb_Mc/s1600/retrostyle%2B3.jpg" height="320" width="192" /></a></div>
<br />
In September I had an opportunity to see The Outsiders play at the theater in town. I absolutely loved this book when I was in middle school. The actors and the actresses did an awesome job of recreating the scenes and they really depicted the essence of the story. After leaving the play I was inspired to recreate the Greasers look and to style myself as a Biker Girl. One of my lovely subscribers to my channel suggested a few months ago that I do a 1950s loc style tutorial. With these two ideas floating around, I decided to do a Retro Biker Girl style with a 1950s victory rolls hairstyle.<br />
<br />
I loved creating this look, and filming this video! I have been wanting to collaborate with other youtubers so I called on Locs of Love to join me in recreating a retro style. Locs of love decided to do pin curls and her style was inspired by Marilyn Monroe. Check out the video below. I am introducing in this blog post an alternate style that didn't make the video. Let me know which one you like the most. Thanks for stopping by! :-)<br />
<b style="text-align: center;"><br /></b>
<b style="text-align: center;"></b><br />
<center>
<b style="text-align: center;">
The Retro Biker Girl #1</b></center>
<b style="text-align: center;">
</b><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XwwIF8QQABk/VEMPHJpSeFI/AAAAAAAAA0w/Ce3e6zXByqQ/s1600/retrostyle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XwwIF8QQABk/VEMPHJpSeFI/AAAAAAAAA0w/Ce3e6zXByqQ/s1600/retrostyle.jpg" height="320" width="200" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Dc2xO4OKxQQ/VEMP5WkoEyI/AAAAAAAAA04/4Qdpr2g_gl8/s1600/retrostyle2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Dc2xO4OKxQQ/VEMP5WkoEyI/AAAAAAAAA04/4Qdpr2g_gl8/s1600/retrostyle2.jpg" height="320" width="214" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<center>
<b>Retro Biker Girl #2 </b>(Alternate Look)</center>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c0dDa0viu1c/VEMVDWIq_NI/AAAAAAAAA1Q/-zA0J1cKsX4/s1600/retrostyle4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c0dDa0viu1c/VEMVDWIq_NI/AAAAAAAAA1Q/-zA0J1cKsX4/s1600/retrostyle4.jpg" height="320" width="191" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In both styles I created the victory rolls and bumper bangs with my locs. I also did an alternate look for the hairstyle. I placed the victory rolls to one side. The picture below is hairstyle #1 and #2. Which do you like?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y3PxRgJL-TM/VEMWMukiZKI/AAAAAAAAA1g/NCdMFxzz4PE/s1600/victory%2Brolls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y3PxRgJL-TM/VEMWMukiZKI/AAAAAAAAA1g/NCdMFxzz4PE/s1600/victory%2Brolls.jpg" height="320" width="271" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t8M-30js8Gs/VEMV4VCAWpI/AAAAAAAAA1Y/icL5fJ3YDMk/s1600/retrostyle7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t8M-30js8Gs/VEMV4VCAWpI/AAAAAAAAA1Y/icL5fJ3YDMk/s1600/retrostyle7.jpg" height="320" width="261" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
What I'm wearing </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<u>Retro Look #1</u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Rue 21 skinny jeans</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
White shirt</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
White earrings</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Faux leather jacket (Rainbow)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Converse (Journeys)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<u>Retro Look #2</u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Rue 21 skinny jeans</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Pinstripe button down Banana Republic long sleeve shirt (Thrifted)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
White earrings</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Black belt</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Converse (Journeys)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Below is the collab video with the Retro Style #1. Check out Locs of Love as well. She created a fabulous look with pin curls.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/lLbiwOIXojA?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14165943992020502396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4451683074610953673.post-6063110731803638732014-10-13T06:00:00.000-07:002014-10-13T06:00:09.791-07:00September 2014 Favorites<br />
I have seen many favorites videos buzzing around Youtube. I've been wanting to do one for the past few months. I decided this month that I would finally commit to sharing some of my favorite items for the month. My hope is that you'll see something that interest you and you'l check it out. This type of post also allows you to connect with me and my interest as well as allow me to find out your interests.<br />
<br />
<b>True North- Almond Pecan Cashew Clusters</b><br />
This gluten free and vegan snack is my favorite. I especially like to snack on these after work. It allows me to eat something healthy while I'm waiting to get home and eat dinner. It's about 150 calories for 5 clusters. I purchased these at Sam's Club.<br />
<br />
<b>Covergirl Smoochies lip balm- I luv u</b><br />
I'm not a big lipstick fan, so I usually wear color lightly. This is a great balm, and it gives a little color. It doesn't cake or clump around the lips. I absolutely hate when lip gloss clumps into a white line on the lips.<br />
<br />
<b>Sally Hansen Nails &Cuticle hand cream</b><br />
After I give myself a manicure I use this to keep my cuticles soft and moisturized. This can also be used more frequently for daily use.<br />
<br />
<b>Julep Oxygen Smoothing Base Coat</b><br />
I have been using this as the base coat to keep my nail bed smooth and hydrated. A base coat is always important because you do not want nail polish to nail your nails.<br />
<br />
<b>Julep Laree Bombshell</b> and <b>Julep Kirby Bombshell</b><br />
All of the Julep nail polishes have been beautiful and long lasting. I like everything color that I have received in my Julep box and am super thrilled to try out more colors.<br />
<br />
<b>Julep Magenta Plum Creme Lip Crayon</b><br />
This lip color is more color than I usually wear, but it is daring enough for me. In the past I've stuck with browns or nude colors, but this reddish lip stick gives me life and completely changes my usually neutral look. The color is long lasting as well.<br />
<br />
<b>Now Essential Oils- Peppermint </b><br />
I have been using these oils in my shampoo and in my spray mixture for my locs. I will be posting a how to for essential oils soon.<br />
<br />
<b>Nutella</b><br />
I am not sure how I have been missing out on this product. I tried it for the first time in September and I absolutely love it. I have been eating in with sliced Honey Crisp apples.<br />
<br />
Check out the Youtube video that features all of the items that I shared in this post. Please feel free to share your #SeptemberFavorites.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<object width="320" height="266" class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/s_vi/ghxAPj56XHc/default.jpg?sqp=COTG26EF&rs=AOn4CLDylNvqZbNv282uMPE-AQpq13ERGQ"><param name="movie" value="https://www.youtube.com/v/ghxAPj56XHc?version=3&f=user_uploads&c=google-webdrive-0&app=youtube_gdata" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/v/ghxAPj56XHc?version=3&f=user_uploads&c=google-webdrive-0&app=youtube_gdata" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div>
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14165943992020502396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4451683074610953673.post-41454077697239419972014-10-08T06:00:00.000-07:002014-10-12T18:23:46.983-07:00Wet Polish Wednesdays<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5848ke6KY5I/VDR86sonLaI/AAAAAAAAAy4/vWC00cuqRJo/s1600/WETPOLISHWEDNESDAY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5848ke6KY5I/VDR86sonLaI/AAAAAAAAAy4/vWC00cuqRJo/s1600/WETPOLISHWEDNESDAY.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Welcome to the first segment of Wet Polish Wednesday! Tune in on Wednesdays to see what nail polish and nail art I am rocking. All designs are done by me. I find inspirations on Pinterest, IG, and any other ideas I see.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FfTsXnTUURs/VDR4QjI5uWI/AAAAAAAAAyg/W3EXWDnJUgA/s1600/IMG_2481.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FfTsXnTUURs/VDR4QjI5uWI/AAAAAAAAAyg/W3EXWDnJUgA/s1600/IMG_2481.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
I love playing in polish. To quench my love for beautiful nails, I subscribed to the Julep beauty box. I have enjoyed receiving my box of goodies each month. Today's #WetPolishWednesday features polish that came from my Julep box. The Julep polish is high quality. I wore the polish for about two weeks and it was still looking good. Check out my <a href="http://www.instagram.com/ibyl" target="_blank">IG</a> page as well as my nail <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/ibyl" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> board for other nail art and inspiration.<br />
<br />
All products are from my Julep box.<br />
Julep Kirby Bombshell<br />
Julep Sera Bombshell<br />
Julep Oxygen clear base coat<br />
<br />
<b>Wet Polish Wednesday Tip: </b>Massage oil into your cuticles daily in order to keep the skin around your nail soft and to avoid splitting skin or hard skin. I notice a big difference when I miss massaging my cuticles with oil for over a week.<br />
<br />
Leave a comment below and let me know your thoughts about the nail polish or if you have any questions.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VxqqG1-BA4M/VDR5_KaPEuI/AAAAAAAAAys/uHVT4vIJvLQ/s1600/IMG_2477.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VxqqG1-BA4M/VDR5_KaPEuI/AAAAAAAAAys/uHVT4vIJvLQ/s1600/IMG_2477.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14165943992020502396noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4451683074610953673.post-41424670173988099392014-10-07T23:42:00.003-07:002014-10-08T21:57:53.689-07:00Influenster Review| Victoria Secret Sports Bra <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JocGX-U-73E/VDOMVgr_YFI/AAAAAAAAAyQ/NcfA_M_CtwA/s1600/IMG_2509.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JocGX-U-73E/VDOMVgr_YFI/AAAAAAAAAyQ/NcfA_M_CtwA/s1600/IMG_2509.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Influenster sent the Victoria Secret Sports Bra just in time for my #30while30 adventure to go zip lining and do an obstacle course. The sports bra was definitely a right on time and much needed garment. During the outdoor obstacle course, I was swinging on wooden boards that were suspended in the air, crawling through wooded tunnels, zipping across wire, and climbing up ladders. <br />
<br />
In terms of comfortability, the garment allowed me to feel secure during the entire adventure. I've also worn the sports bra when working out at home and it allows me to feel secure, but not too restricted. I've used other brand sports bras in the past that made me feel too restricted and it was too tight. The Victoria Secret Sports bra was just right.<br />
<br />
The sports bra was easy to get in and get out of because it has the front zipper.<br />
<br />
<b>Pros</b><br />
Secure feel<br />
Comfortable<br />
Front zipper closure<br />
Quality material<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Cons</b><br />
The price $$<br />
<br />
The price is a con, because I have never spent that much on a bra. I think the quality of the bra makes it a garment I wouldn't mind investing in because it's durable and I could get a lot of use out of it.<br />
<br />
The pros far outweigh the cons.<br />
<br />
Below is my Youtube video of me unboxing the Victoria Secret Sports Bra.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ia4uZdGjw0Q?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>Influenster sent this product to me complimentary for review purposes. #VSSportsBra</b><br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14165943992020502396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4451683074610953673.post-86174771044247087722014-10-07T11:01:00.001-07:002014-10-07T11:01:35.501-07:00ITunes Tuesday #3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VPFQEnZeYXk/U1QIMzZJAEI/AAAAAAAAAWo/OkdAeZCJt3k/s1600/photo-41.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VPFQEnZeYXk/U1QIMzZJAEI/AAAAAAAAAWo/OkdAeZCJt3k/s1600/photo-41.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Welcome to the third segment of <i><b>iTunes Tuesday</b></i>. While browsing through Instagram I stumbled upon a post for Alex Isley. I took the liberty of searching for her on Youtube and I was glad that I did. I absolutely love her sound. It's soulful and authentic. Feel free to comment below and share your favorite artists and songs. I'm continuously looking for new artists to vibe to as well.<br />
<br />
<b></b><br />
<center>
<b>iTunes Tuesday #3</b></center>
<b></b><br />
<center>
Alex Isley "Into Orbit"</center>
<center>
</center>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/aTDlDhopK6M?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
What are you currently playing?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14165943992020502396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4451683074610953673.post-17987751904499729122014-08-25T10:26:00.000-07:002014-08-25T10:26:00.150-07:00Update #2 | 30 While 30 Here's my second update for my 30 while 30 list. These check ins remind me I need to get to doing. I still have quite a few things to check out off my list. I have a made a little progress.<br />
<br />
<u><b>New Hair Styles</b></u><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x21wyyBHlWc/U_mMf4dJPBI/AAAAAAAAAuc/lc17JuDngaI/s1600/8fauxbang.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x21wyyBHlWc/U_mMf4dJPBI/AAAAAAAAAuc/lc17JuDngaI/s1600/8fauxbang.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NiEt_uX8acQ/U_mMLfzxYZI/AAAAAAAAAuU/TeEzJKQRYpw/s1600/DSC_0840.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NiEt_uX8acQ/U_mMLfzxYZI/AAAAAAAAAuU/TeEzJKQRYpw/s1600/DSC_0840.JPG" height="141" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gFlMfLdoUbI/U_mLeL8yOqI/AAAAAAAAAuI/77RKRUgqQsg/s1600/DSC_0841.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gFlMfLdoUbI/U_mLeL8yOqI/AAAAAAAAAuI/77RKRUgqQsg/s1600/DSC_0841.JPG" height="133" width="200" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qEBL-0OKsts/U_mLeD7u8bI/AAAAAAAAAuE/5a5jUl11ZY4/s1600/DSC_0827.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qEBL-0OKsts/U_mLeD7u8bI/AAAAAAAAAuE/5a5jUl11ZY4/s1600/DSC_0827.JPG" height="200" width="176" /></a></div>
<br />
I created the side twist bun, a curl mohawk, barrel roll mohawk, spiral curls, and bang styles. You can check out my tutorials on my <a href="http://www.youtube.com/ibyl" target="_blank">Youtube Channel</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><u>New Recipes</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
I made Shrimp crustless quiche and turley wrapped mini quiche.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cd0D7jee2MA/U_mRcgoMxgI/AAAAAAAAAvI/ChEFaQOw-qY/s1600/photo-67.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cd0D7jee2MA/U_mRcgoMxgI/AAAAAAAAAvI/ChEFaQOw-qY/s1600/photo-67.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K7CEcmlodHM/U_mQA__C-PI/AAAAAAAAAuo/9ymOHcaaWRM/s1600/photo-64.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K7CEcmlodHM/U_mQA__C-PI/AAAAAAAAAuo/9ymOHcaaWRM/s1600/photo-64.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
<br />
<b style="text-decoration: underline;">New Places</b> (food mainly)<br />
I have been to a few different eateries since my last post. My colleague and I ventured to the Wild Wasabi one afternoon after I left work. I ordered the shrimp fried rice and a glass of plum wine. The wine tastes different than I remember, but it's been years since I tasted it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p3ip4AnkpE8/U_mQ2cRuSCI/AAAAAAAAAvA/1H48hSWcQnE/s1600/photo-66.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p3ip4AnkpE8/U_mQ2cRuSCI/AAAAAAAAAvA/1H48hSWcQnE/s1600/photo-66.JPG" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
I checked out a Cuban restaurant called Guanatamara with my work staff. I ordered the chicken breast with fried plantains. I need to try to cook those at home.<br />
<br />
I went to Eggs and I with my thrifting group. This restaurant reminded me of IHOP. Mainly because it smells like syrup.<br />
<br />
A Matter of Taste, a gluten free restaurant, was cozy and enjoyable place I visited with a few close friends. I ordered the half turkey brie and white bean chicken chili with a corn muffin.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dPUPPphDG24/U_mQQ1pEkmI/AAAAAAAAAuw/RIq7GenC6fU/s1600/photo-63.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dPUPPphDG24/U_mQQ1pEkmI/AAAAAAAAAuw/RIq7GenC6fU/s1600/photo-63.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Salsa, a Puerto Rican Restaurant, had the delicious plantain stuffed chicken breast with seasonal vegetables.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jk1qKI_W-WE/U_mQXczZjsI/AAAAAAAAAu4/zBTrgtZUPDo/s1600/photo-65.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jk1qKI_W-WE/U_mQXczZjsI/AAAAAAAAAu4/zBTrgtZUPDo/s1600/photo-65.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
When I visited my sister back in June we went to an asian buffet that had should food too. I cannot remember the name of it.<br />
<br />
In New Orleans we ate at Neyows and I ordered fish, potatoes, and seasonal vegetables.<br />
<br />
On my first meet up with my thrifting group we went to a Goodwill near Lennox. It was fun of great finds. I definitely got lost in there for over two hours.<br />
<br />
I used live Jazz music on the Cumberland back in June. The setting was nice. I really enjoyed when the sun started to go down because it wasn't as hot anymore. The music was relaxing, and I enjoyed chatting with my friends.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VcyQhvBttcA/U_mYa-4vOrI/AAAAAAAAAvY/Q-UwfehR-s0/s1600/jazzonthecumberland.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VcyQhvBttcA/U_mYa-4vOrI/AAAAAAAAAvY/Q-UwfehR-s0/s1600/jazzonthecumberland.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
1. <strike>Essence Festival</strike> 7/3/14 <a href="http://wittychiq.blogspot.com/2014/08/20th-annual-essence-music-festival.html" target="_blank">Essence blog post</a><br />
2. <strike>Try sushi </strike>4/12/14<br />
3. <strike>Revive and Maintain a public blog<strike> 3/2014 Ongoing</strike></strike><br />
4. Photo shoot<br />
5. Get a passport<br />
6. Go zip lining<br />
7. <strike>Go to a Heat game </strike>3/24/14<br />
8. <strike>30 poems (NaPoWriMo2014)</strike> April/2014<br />
9. Start Ira<br />
10. Recite poem live<br />
11. Start a P.O. Box<br />
12. Try 30 new hairstyles (17 out of 30)*<br />
13. Travel to California<br />
14. Host a dinner party<br />
15. <strike>Travel to Miami </strike>3/24/14<br />
16. Try 30 new recipes (4 of 30)<br />
17. Make a scrapbook<br />
18. Visit 30 new places w/in and outside of city (13 out of 30)*<br />
19. Spa day (massage/nails)<br />
20. Donate $300 to a charity or non profit foundation<br />
21. 10 random acts of kindness<br />
22. Send 10 letters (friends and family)<br />
23. Read at least 10 books<br />
24. Complete a pinterest DIY project<br />
25. Write 30 pages of my novel<br />
26. <strike>Save $1,000 </strike> 8/2014<br />
27. Gain X lb.<br />
28. Learn to knit<br />
29. Start crochet website<br />
30. Volunteer 10 hours to... various service projects<br />
<br />
#30While30 Check out the <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/ibyl/30while30/" target="_blank">Pinterest Board</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14165943992020502396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4451683074610953673.post-90755609108798390672014-08-24T13:35:00.002-07:002014-08-24T13:35:35.258-07:0030 Styles | Versatility<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-krMYMdnMpow/U_pMFFycrhI/AAAAAAAAAvo/65LASaSXgXs/s1600/sisterlock%2Blooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-krMYMdnMpow/U_pMFFycrhI/AAAAAAAAAvo/65LASaSXgXs/s1600/sisterlock%2Blooks.jpg" height="640" width="492" /></a></div>
<br />
Check out some of the styles I have created with my sisterlocks over the past 15 months. Follow me on <a href="http://pinterest.com/ibyl" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>, <a href="http://instagram.com/ibyl" target="_blank">IG</a>, <a href="http://youtube.com/ibyl" target="_blank">Youtube</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/ibyl" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, and this blog to stay update with tutorials and current styles. Post any questions below.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14165943992020502396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4451683074610953673.post-8117321964889139332014-08-23T23:24:00.001-07:002014-08-24T00:44:42.976-07:00Creating Springy Bouncy Spiral Curls | Wrapaloc Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tn0mYyOTo2Q/U_l9VNe9yXI/AAAAAAAAAso/-3ewmLM9ZzU/s1600/DSC_0837.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tn0mYyOTo2Q/U_l9VNe9yXI/AAAAAAAAAso/-3ewmLM9ZzU/s1600/DSC_0837.JPG" height="296" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Wrapaloc is a best kept secret. I had not heard of this curling styling tool until I attended the ATL Loc Appreciation Day meet up in June. I have used quite a few curling tools and each one creates it's own effect. I like the looks that the Wrapaloc tools create.<br />
<br />
I purchased the Wrapaloc product back in June. I had a chance to use the products twice. The first time I made big spirals because I packed a lot of my locs on each tool. I purchased 2 packs (40 tools), and in order to curl all of my hair I overloaded the tools. The second time I used the tools, I only put 5-7 locs on a tool. I was able to create bouncy spiral curls.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eSvjAA-He28/U_l-4qbJIzI/AAAAAAAAAtY/O8jhcERRfBE/s1600/DSC_0820.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eSvjAA-He28/U_l-4qbJIzI/AAAAAAAAAtY/O8jhcERRfBE/s1600/DSC_0820.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This was how my hair looked while rolling the locs on the tool.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Tt0lnD-jztI/U_l_DENhMTI/AAAAAAAAAtg/iBqJuZ3Tmso/s1600/DSC_0838.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Tt0lnD-jztI/U_l_DENhMTI/AAAAAAAAAtg/iBqJuZ3Tmso/s1600/DSC_0838.JPG" height="191" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DO4SXtwAm4A/U_l-rZAY5WI/AAAAAAAAAtQ/aMkjDPNTZXs/s1600/DSC_0827.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DO4SXtwAm4A/U_l-rZAY5WI/AAAAAAAAAtQ/aMkjDPNTZXs/s1600/DSC_0827.JPG" height="200" width="188" /></a></div>
These are pictures of two ways you can style the hair with the tools in. You can wear the tools in the hair and still style it. The tools can be worn out of the house while the curls are forming and people will not know you have rollers in your hair.<br />
<br />
<b>First Time Application</b><br />
I rolled the hair damp and I oiled my locs during the application. I kept the tools in for two days. The tools can be used as a style before the style but I didn't really style them because there was so much hair on each tool. I took out the tools and I immediately pulled apart the curls. I had big bouncy, spiral curls as a result. The curls lasted until I wet my hair. I kept the curls for 3 weeks. The only product I used during the rolling was a little hair oil and I made sure my hair was damp. The tools can create spiral curls, waves, small curls, medium curls, and large curls depending on how much hair you add to the tool.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MEL3BjM3esQ/U_mC5TpMqrI/AAAAAAAAAts/KTxUvdQMapw/s1600/photo-61.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MEL3BjM3esQ/U_mC5TpMqrI/AAAAAAAAAts/KTxUvdQMapw/s1600/photo-61.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J33jQt0-IDc/U_mC5WFyexI/AAAAAAAAAtw/IAbyazw11SA/s1600/photo-62.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J33jQt0-IDc/U_mC5WFyexI/AAAAAAAAAtw/IAbyazw11SA/s1600/photo-62.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ViIodoFPz9k/U_l2YNcFM9I/AAAAAAAAAsI/65ZFUjqAeZA/s1600/photo-58.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ViIodoFPz9k/U_l2YNcFM9I/AAAAAAAAAsI/65ZFUjqAeZA/s1600/photo-58.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Second Time Application</b><br />
The difference in this application was that I only put 5-7 locs on each tool. I still only had 40 tools, so I had to do knot locks in the back. It took me about 2.5 hours to roll the hair. I kept the tools in for one day. I wore the spiral ring curls four days. It was comfortable to sleep with the tools in because I didn't rolling the hair too tightly. The tools produced long bouncy spiral curls. The curls were precise, tight, and elongated. I pulled the curls apart and more the full spirals curls for three weeks. They lasted until I washed my hair.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NqMG3m9BHm0/U_l90nTAB7I/AAAAAAAAAsw/R9Rsu31cLZo/s1600/DSC_0851.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NqMG3m9BHm0/U_l90nTAB7I/AAAAAAAAAsw/R9Rsu31cLZo/s1600/DSC_0851.JPG" height="300" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The Wrapaloc tool is safe for the hair, and it allows for a tight elongated curl. The tool is wrapped with a black type of silicone covering and they are durable. The tools can be bent, folded, and unfolded to the original shape. It doesn't stick to the hair or become tangled. It is perfectly good for curling the hair and you can keep the tools in for over a week. The tools come in three sizes: small, medium, and large. The tools should be purchased based on the length of your hair. The tool should be half the length of your hair. It can be used on loose natural hair, permed hair, and loc'd hair. I used the large Wrapaloc tool on my locs.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wZQzvk2HWwI/U_l-C_DpifI/AAAAAAAAAs4/si2LBhuTXgY/s1600/DSC_0823.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wZQzvk2HWwI/U_l-C_DpifI/AAAAAAAAAs4/si2LBhuTXgY/s1600/DSC_0823.JPG" height="223" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The curls the tool created were uniform, because of how I curled them on the tool. I like that you can style the hair with the tools, wear the hair in the spiral ring curls, and then wear the curls pulled apart.<br />
<br />
It is $22 per pack of 20 tools, and I think it's worth the looks it creates. Typically 2 packs should be enough. I have over 400 locs so I have to use 3-4 packs. I ordered online and it took 4 business days to arrive.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DOi-fAM1GqQ/U_l-VTOxznI/AAAAAAAAAtA/2j3DJKp_cTg/s1600/DSC_0851.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DOi-fAM1GqQ/U_l-VTOxznI/AAAAAAAAAtA/2j3DJKp_cTg/s1600/DSC_0851.JPG" height="320" width="311" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Overall I absolutely loved the results both times that I used the tools. Post questions or comments below.<br />
<br />
I currently have a giveaway going on my Youtube channel for 2 packs of Wrapaloc tools. Check it out if interested.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7BjRgznKDGQ/U_l9G1e6llI/AAAAAAAAAsg/7wLiA1hk0mg/s1600/DSC_0847.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7BjRgznKDGQ/U_l9G1e6llI/AAAAAAAAAsg/7wLiA1hk0mg/s1600/DSC_0847.JPG" height="242" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14165943992020502396noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4451683074610953673.post-55230716493945885512014-08-23T22:24:00.004-07:002014-11-01T22:08:57.766-07:0020th Annual Essence Music FestivalI had no clue what to expect before attending my first Essence Festival. It was a great time and I already plan to attend again next year. I arrived in New Orleans on Friday at 6:15 a.m. Below is a recap of the mini trip.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NBXOzNUz4X0/U_l2YSII2GI/AAAAAAAAAsE/vEjjBGX29-c/s1600/photo-59.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NBXOzNUz4X0/U_l2YSII2GI/AAAAAAAAAsE/vEjjBGX29-c/s1600/photo-59.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Day 1<br />
During the day we attended the events at the convention center. There were tons of people everywhere. The day was filled with surprises and opportunities to meet celebs. We stood in several lines to collect freebies that were being given away. I took a photo with Lance Gross at the StateFarm booth. McDonald's was giving away mini strawberry smoothies, Monopoly games, reusable bags, and hosting an audience fashion show. The Coca Cola booth was having a big house party with a dance floor that was playing all the ole school feel good jams. We stood in line to get our free cans of coke with our names on it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wfpyg8M4gak/U_l2YUwKx7I/AAAAAAAAAsM/a6wfJUg9fIg/s1600/photo%2B3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wfpyg8M4gak/U_l2YUwKx7I/AAAAAAAAAsM/a6wfJUg9fIg/s1600/photo%2B3.JPG" height="336" width="400" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OeLnSYLvAz4/U_l2KmLNO6I/AAAAAAAAArw/KOQ7gzes4Es/s1600/photo%2B1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OeLnSYLvAz4/U_l2KmLNO6I/AAAAAAAAArw/KOQ7gzes4Es/s1600/photo%2B1.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Prince requested everyone wear purple so we dressed in our purple attire. When we entered the stadium Janelle Monae was on stage. She started singing one of my favorites, "Primetime". We hadn't even found our seats but I had stopped in he middle of the breezeway to start singing the song. In my mind, I was the back up singer.<br />
<br />
Before the next performer came out Dougie Fresh had us jamming' to all the classic songs. Everybody across the packed stadium was rocking'. We stood in front of our seats and danced to every song. When Prince made it to the stage at 11:30, we were warmed up and ready for the funk.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
It was my first time ever seeing Prince in concert. I was glad I got a chance to be in the building. At the end of his set, Prince left the stage, but no one moved. Everyone just started humming "Purple Rain". It was as if everyone was saying you can't perform without doing that song. After a continuous hum, Prince came back and gave us what we asked for. He had like four outros. Each time the audience wanted more. We he finally exited the stage at 1:30 We still looked at the stage wondering whether he was going to give us more or whether that was really the finale.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rF7SppCTpzE/U_l2Puck1yI/AAAAAAAAAr4/NzAbwDQHsP0/s1600/photo%2B2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rF7SppCTpzE/U_l2Puck1yI/AAAAAAAAAr4/NzAbwDQHsP0/s1600/photo%2B2.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Day 2<br />
We went back to the convention because there was still so much we had not done or seen. I got a chance to sit in on Stevie Harvey and Nichols launching their Act Like A Success program. They shared some motivating and encouraging tips for kick starting the dream or business venture.<br />
<br />
When we left the convention center we made our way to Neyows Restaurant for some local New Orleans food. It was a cozy place right off from the French Quarters. The food was good. I ordered fish and potatoes.<br />
<br />
We rode the trolley through the french Quarter area and walked around the area.<br />
<br />
Day 3<br />
<br />
I boarded my bus at 9 am to head back to reality.<br />
<br />
<br />
Check out the vlogs from the trip on my youtube channel ibylvlogs.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/ELp0wb8F-VQ?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14165943992020502396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4451683074610953673.post-42553680964908469722014-07-12T10:00:00.000-07:002014-07-12T10:00:02.454-07:00Loc Appreciation Day Recap | ATL Edition<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lPzOcsSAk0g/U7-isYGa6RI/AAAAAAAAAhE/Sh6qnRHqa1w/s1600/locappreciationday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lPzOcsSAk0g/U7-isYGa6RI/AAAAAAAAAhE/Sh6qnRHqa1w/s1600/locappreciationday.jpg" height="225" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I had the opportunity to attend the 1st Annual Loc Appreciation Day Meetup in ATL on June 28th, 2014 for Loc Appreciation Day. It was hosted by Loc Livin at Iwi Day Spa. I was quite excited to attend because I have been participating in LAD since it started but I never heard of meet ups near my area. I also got a chance to showcase Loc'd sisters and brothers on Youtube who wanted to wish others a happy loc appreciation day. I will have both videos at the bottom of this post to check out. Shout out to Qochemist from Youtube for sharing this great idea. In this fourth year the recognition of this day has stretched to other countries. I look forward to LAD spreading to other areas and more meet ups being planned. <br />
<br />
Below is a recap of my personal perspective on the celebration for Loc Appreciation Day in 8 bullet points.<br />
<br />
1. I met Sister Nandi and purchased the wrapaloc tools. I had not previously seen or heard of this product. (Review coming soon!).<br />
2. I met GrizzleRocsLocs! I am always thrilled to meet people who make videos that I watch or those who watch my video.<br />
3. I met several kind loc'd sisters and brothers who were all about positivity and fellowship.<br />
4. Towards the end of the meet up I met my sisterlock twin. We share a lot of hair similarities from length, time growing, and color.<br />
5. The master stylist Mzladylox showed us perfection when she styled over four heads right there on the spot in quick, beautiful, and efficient loc styles.<br />
6. I purchased loc jewelry from Shedly with Jewelry4mylocs. I didn't even know I could wear loc jewelry on my small locs.<br />
7. There were so many varieties of loc styles, lengths, and color. It was loc galore! It was great seeing the different shades and versatility of locs in person.<br />
8. The event was complete with a dj and refreshments. The venue was outdoors. It was pretty and had a waterfall backdrop. It was an overall good atmosphere.<br />
<br />
How did you celebrate Loc Appreciation Day?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/n-7tWnRjVw0?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/8LVtBgt0uDo?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14165943992020502396noreply@blogger.com1