I've Found It!

Happy Tuesday, napptural divas! I have FINALLY found some products that I love to give me the look I like. As I've mentioned before, I love just about anything from Miss Jessie, and now I've paired her Curly Pudding with the Curling Custard from Kinky Curly. I do have to say that using the Curling Custard from Kinky Curly by itself did not turn my hair into what I wanted it to be. After some research, I discovered I was a 4B (find your hair type here). But I would like my hair to be curly, like it is right after I've washed it. I was hoping using the Curly Custard would help achieve that. Yeah, I was wrong. When my hair dried, it was a nice, tight, TWA aka teeny weeny afro...I hate those. The next time I washed my hair I put on the leave-in conditioner, the Curly Custard all over, then I parted my hair and put it in two strand twists. For each section, I put a little of the Miss Jessie's Curly Pudding on. I let my hair dry as I slept. When I woke up the next morning, I had nice ringlets that I LOVED! I know what works on my hair to achieve a certain look. I will probably try cornrowing my hair again, but in the meantime I like twisting it because it leaves my hair curly and (most importantly) it's less time consuming.

I'm still looking for a leave-in conditioner to use. I do have the Black Vanilla Raspberry conditioner from Carol's Daughter. And I've found Fruits and Berries from Oyin Handmade. I actually need to start using more of their products. What items do you use? Do you have a leave-in conditioner or any other product to suggest using? I can't wait to see your suggestions. Continue to stay nappturally beautiful!

P.S. Don't worry; I'll post pictures soon! :)

Happy Black Girl Day-Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Hello, natural divas!!! Today is Happy Black Girl Day, and in recognition, today's post will be all about taking care of self. October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and there are all types of walks, fundraisers, and prevention awareness. The most important thing that we must do is conduct a monthly breast exam. Check in the mirror, feel in the shower, even have your mate feel your breast to see if there are any abnormal lumps. To make things easy, pick a date each month, like your birthdate or favorite number, to check yourself. Next, know that there are foods that aid in the prevention of breast cancer, specifically for African-America women. Those foods are broccoli, greens, and carrots. Having two of these veggies per day reduce your likelihood of developing breast cancer. Lastly, know your risk factors. Have your family members had cancer? If so, not only should you be checking at home, but you should also get checked during your annual check-up with your physician.

I recently met a breast cancer survivor a few weeks ago. This person was a man-yes, men can get breast cancer, too-who discovered he had breast cancer while training for a track meet. He had bleeding from his chest, but ignored it. As he was training, he got injured and had to go to the doctor. When asked if he was suffering from anything else, he mentioned the bleeding. It was discovered he had Stage 3 breast cancer and probably wouldn't live to see 31. Add to this the fact his grandfather was dying of cancer as well didn't help. I am happy to report this young man celebrated his 31st birthday last week and has recovered 100%!

So yes, I know this is Happy Black Girl Day, but any story of triumph belongs to us all!!! See what you can do to support breast cancer in your neighborhood, and make sure that you are always aware. Stay nappturally beautiful...and healthy! (Don't forget to wear your pink ribbon this month!)

Is Natural Hair Professional in the Workplace?

Happy Tuesday! Veronique George of Naturally You-The Hair Journey will be a guest blogger today on the diaries. She has written a post today regarding natural hair in the workplace. When I first decided to go natural, I struggled with my decision in regards to how it would be received when I worked in corporate America and had some of the concerns mentioned in this post. So, enjoy the post, feel free to comment and share your experiences (good and bad), and definitely check out Veronique’s blog!

Watching me, watching me

Watching me, watching me

Watching me, watching me

Watching me

AH
And you keep sayin’ that I’m free

And you keep sayin’ that I’m free

And you keep sayin’ that I’m free…

Many times African-American and other multicultural women who wear their hair natural are not considered professional or conservative in the work place. Instead of embracing natural hair, businesses sometimes shun, or even discourage, it. After working in some of Corporate America’s top companies, I believe that natural hair is not accepted in the workplace because employers and their employees do not know what to make of it. They look at natural hair and think, “Why is it so curly? Why does it look like that? Why can’t they comb their hair?” Most companies have an idea of what professionalism is, and most times it does not include tightly or loosely coiled curls, braids, two-strand twists, and the like. It does not look like a large afro or even an afro puff tilted to the side. Rather, professionalism is limited to the constraints of long, straight hair and even pulled back in a pony tail depending on how conservative the company may be.

Long, straight hair may be a preference even if you are natural. That is fine if women choose to do so because they want to. However, a work environment that only accepts or encourages that particular hairstyle may not be a healthy situation for natural hair wearers or the company. I have heard a lot of women say to me that they have considered going natural for a long time, but they have to wait or they just cannot do it right now for whatever the reason may be. It is very disheartening to know that women want to wear their natural hair, but are afraid because they may lose their jobs or even credibility from their counterparts. Natural hair is not a rebellious act of free speech or entitlement; it is your hair, my hair, our hair. It is an extension of the divine will of the Most High and there is nothing unprofessional about that. Our hair is an extension of who we are, our adornment. Our intricate styles dates back to Zulu women of the Congo region and beyond and celebrate our rich history.

Rather than shying away from women with natural hair, businesses have to learn to embrace them. In doing so, they embrace themselves, by embracing their consumers and the world as we know it. Diversity of thought, culture, and even hair should be supported and celebrated. Work place environments should reflect the colorful DNA of the world and reflect the neighborhoods, grocery stores, beauty parlors, and shopping centers where companies conduct business.

Natural hair is here to stay. It is beautiful, it is professional, it can and cannot be “conservative.” It must become standard that when businesses hire minorities, including African-American women, they hire their hair as well. Now this does not mean women can nor should come to work without putting their best foot forward and properly caring for and maintaining their hair. But a job offer should not be contingent on the conditional statement: we will hire you if and only if you do something with your hair. Professionalism relates to the expertise and know-how you bring to the table, how you conduct yourself in business settings, and a well-kept appearance. Women with natural hair should not be watched, scoped, demoted, or considered not to be a “good-fit” in the workplace. Instead, they should be able to freely and unapologetically wear their natural hair tresses.

Veronique George, is a marketing and advertising consultant. She is also a natural hair consultant. Her blog, “Naturally You: The Hair Journey,” can be found at: www.hairspiration.webs.com

The Current State of My Hair

Hello, all! I know it's been awhile since I've posted here. I must admit I have been cheating on you with my other blog, Evolving Elle-Southern Girl in the City. And I was wearing some extensions during this summer. But I am back to being my natural, beautiful self!

As I stated in previous posts, my hair was damaged from straightening it so much, and I decided to give it a break. Well, the break is over! I've been wearing my hair for about 3 weeks now. My 10 year high school reunion is this weekend, and I decided to wear my natural 'do! It's shorter than I would like, but I'm learning to embrace the length and try styles that are suitable, doable, and low maintenance. I love wearing braid-outs, but sadly my hair isn't long enough for me to braid it, so I've been twisting it. I know some of you are thinking, "What's the difference?" Trust me, there's a big one!! I feel like with braid outs, my hair is wavier and fuller. Twist outs make my hair appear shorter and somewhat curly. So you get an idea of what my hair has looked like this summer, I'll post some pics, and I'll post a pic of my hair from last week.

If you have any suggestions on how I should wear my hair, please let me know! Oh, I can say that I try the Kinky Curly Curling Gel...yeah, I didn't like it. Based on my hair type, which I believe is a 4B, it didn't have the effect I wanted. I may experiment on Friday with some rods to get it ready for my official reunion dinner on Friday. I'll be sure to post some pics from this weekend and my experimentation. Until next time, stay nappturally beautiful!


DC Tech Opening Party May 2010


Jordan's 8 for a friend's birthday party July 2010


Anthony David performance at Live August 2010


Roland Martin and I at Howard University September 2010

Happy Nappy Day

I know, I know...it's been a while since I have posted. I hope you have missed me as much as I have missed you. I have been working on some other endeavors, but I will always have a love for my natural hair and you all! I know you're wondering what my hair looks like!! Well, I have finally gotten my summer 'do-- Two-strand twists, which a nice gentleman told me were beautiful yesterday when I was at Subway! (Pics are coming soon!) I thought what better way to come back to you all than to share an event that I'm looking forward to-Happy Nappy Day!!!

Happy Nappy Day will be held on July 11 in Baltimore at Gwynn Oak Park. This event is free to the public, and I am actually a little excited as I have never been to a natural hair event before. Poets will be there to perform, and organizers are looking for vendors. (Check out the site for more information.) I will be sure to share my experiences with you guys (and some tips I learn)! I hope to see you all there, even if you're not natural. Until next time, stay nappturally beautiful!

Happy Black Girl Day

Happy Black Girl Day!!! For those of you that don't know what HBGD is, it was started by The Beautiful Struggler as a way for us to celebrate the Black woman as opposed to degrading, diminishing, and belitting. To do my part, I will be highligting various Black women in all walks of life to highlight us as beautiful, happy, successful people. Today's post will highlight my favorite Natural Sistas!


- Jill Scott- This woman's style is AMAZING! I love her hair, her clothes, her aura-she just seems like a very natural, earthy, happy woman. (And it doesn't hurt that I get a lot of "You look like Jill Scott"s!! :) In all seriousness, she's great, and I look to her for inspiration.


- Chrisette Michelle- I love her new haircut, and for awhile was tempted to get my hair that short (I have re-considered that decision). She's another black woman who exudes confidence, charisma, and a fierce style.


- Corinne Bailey Rae- I love her ringlets. (And have attempted to create my own on more than one occasion!) She always looks so fresh and youthful. It's hard not to love her hair.


- Lauryn Hill- No matter how she rocks it, she looks great!


- Erykah Badu- Regardless of what you think of some of her actions, Ms. Badu's style has always been in a class of its own, including her tresses!

I love how we, as Black women, come in all hues, shapes, sizes, personalities, and so does our hair! If our hair isn't together, we don't feel together. So, who's your natural girl inspiration? Feel free to share and name people that I completely forgot about!! Until next time, stay nappturally beautiful

Isn't She Lovely: Part I

Well, it's finally here-the beginning of the "Isn't She Lovely" series. As mentioned in an earlier post, I am beginning to highlight some ladies whom I think have a great natural hair story and have some tips that we can learn from. First up, is Miss Tamieka.

How long have you been natural/when was the last time you received a relaxer/texturizer? My last perm was June of 2007 (I think)
Why did you decide to go natural? My hair has never done well with a perm., and after coming to DC and seeing so many women embracing their natural texture, not perming anymore was just a natural step. After a few months after my last perm, I realized it had been a long time since I had a perm and I didn’t see any point in getting one.
How did you transition to natural hair? I gradually cut my perm out while transitioning with braids.
What is your favorite way to style your hair? Braidouts. My hair shrinks up a lot so if I want my hair to look like it has any length at all I have to either to twist outs or braidout. I find that braidouts give me more definition.
What is your favorite product to use on your hair? I love Butter-N-Bars.com’s Conditioning Hair Masque. It loosens the curl patter a little, long enough to comb through it easily and do great braidouts. Plus it leaves my hair super soft. In my opinion no type 4 should be without it.
What is your worst natural hair memory/worst hair disaster? Too many list. But the most recent was when I went to a beauty school for a roller set. It was the worse thing ever. I should have gotten up from the chair as soon as she tried to put a comb through my dry hair. Yikes!
Do you think you’ll be natural the rest of your life? Yes. I cannot imagine ever going back to the creamy crack. However if I ever left DC, depending on the location, I recognize there might be a chance I’d have to wear my hair straight. (I know I never have to , but you get what I’m saying).
Have you read any books or blogs that have aided you in your natural hair journey? Again, too many to list. I love curlynikki.com, textureplayground.com, newlynatural.com, motowngirl.com, and Nappturality.com
Has being natural done anything for your self-esteem? It has reminded me like India says, “I am not my hair”.I don’t have to hide behind hair, I have learned to love my face whether my hair is braided, twisted or in a TWA. I feel most true to myself when my hair is in its natural state.
What are some comments you have received from family/friends/strangers regarding your natural hair, positive or negative? Well almost all of my friends are natural (all but maybe 2 or 3) or transitioning, so I get lot of positive feedback from them. My mom was nervous at first but she loves it. My dad, surprisingly enough loved it from the start. (he’s old school so I was expecting him to object). The only person who is not ok with my decision to wear my hair natural is my boyfriend’s mother, though I’m not sure why she cares *shrugs*

Thanks to Tamieka for agreeing to be featured on The Natural Girl Diaries. I really appreciate it! If you have any questions, comments, or want to share based on Tameika's comments, feel free! Until next time, stay nappturally beautiful!

Summer Care for your Hair

As we are officially 19 days from the first day of summer, I feel it is my duty to share with you ladies (and gentlemen) some tips to keep your locs in tip-top shape for the summer to make sure your hair is not dull and damaged by the time Fall rolls around. (And for those of you still a part of the dark side (relaxers) I'm sure these will help you, too!

1. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize: It's important to keep hair moisturized 24/7/365, so summertime is even more important. With sun exposure being inevitable, it's super important to ensure that our hair maintains its moisture. Sun can dry out hair (and skin), so it's so very important to find a daily moisturizer to keep our hair soft and shiny without being greasy. Some items to try are Carol's Daughter Hair Milk, Frederick Benjamin Daily Hydrator, or any natural product with jojoba, avocado, or olive oil.

2. Wear or use a satin hair cap/pillowcase: Cotton pillowcases have a tendency to break hair and cause split ends, so to protect your tresses sleep wearing a satin scarf (we should all be used to it as our mothers wrapped our hair as little girls) or sleep with a satin pillowcase. Satin is a soft fabric that protects hair from breakage.

3. Use an umbrella when going out: Yes, it may sound crazy if it's not raining, but using an umbrella at an outdoor festival, the beach, or bbq will protect your tresses from sun damage. Yes, we all love being outside on a gorgeous, but you don't want to sacrifice your beautiful tresses, do you?!?!

4. For my swimmers, condition your hair pre-pool and wear a swim cap: Another not so cute girl move, but wearing a swim cap will protect hair from chlorine damage...and any other unnatural thing that may be in pool water! Also, pre-conditioning your hair will protect the hair shaft from chlorine damage.

5. Get some fake hair: Yes, I said it, and I'll say it again...GET SOME FAKE HAIR! Yes, I'm a proponent of some weave (as we all know from a previous post), and there is nothing wrong with that. I believe in protecting my hair by any means necessary. So if I have to add somebody else's hair to my hair, I'm willing to make that sacrifice! As long as my hair is braided and the weave is done right, I shouldn't have any problems with keeping my tresses healthy and bringing letting them breathe in the fall.

I hope these tips help. I'm sure there are plenty more, so if I've missed a few, feel free to add some. Until next time, stay nappturally beautiful.

"Isn't She Lovely?": The Series

I have a number of friends who are natural and wear their hair in various styles. I love the diversity that we women have in the way we style our hair, so much so that I was inspired to ask a few of them to share their natural hair stories. Now, each woman has a different texture and does various things with her hair. You may see someone who has a similar hair texture as you so please feel free to borrow some of the tips you see. (I know I will!) I've received a number of responses back, and I'm getting excited from just reading what these ladies shared. Some of these women I've been friends with for years, and we've never discussed why we went natural. And to make things fair, I will answer the same questions I requested of these ladies. So, once a week, we will feature a new "napptural" girl, pictures and all, so you can see the versality and diversity of our natural hair. Don't worry, you'll get my regular blog updates along with the "Isn't She Lovely?" series. So until next time, stay nappturally beautiful...

Frederick Benjamin/Michael Craig Photoshoot

At the beginning of this month, I had a behind-the-scenes invite to view the Frederick Benjamin/Michael Craig photoshoot in DC. For those of you that don't know, Frederick Benjamin is a new natural hair and scalp treatment line created by Michael James. Initially started for multicultural men, this product has customers of all races and both genders. Free of harmful alcohols, synthetic agents, and mineral oils, the Frederick Benjamin products are full of natural oils to ensure hair is at its optimal peak and maintains moisture and shine without being greasy. Affordably priced, Frederick Benjamin ) has a full line of products to ensure complete hair care.



Now, for me, Michael Craig Men's Grooming is a first. This is the first ever full service barbershop that I have visited, not that I visit a lot of barbershops! This business, exclusively for men, offers shampoos, haircuts, shaves, manicures, pedicures, and other services for its clients. Located in the Capitol Hill neighborhood of DC, this barbershop provides customers with complimentary wi-fi, flat screen televisions to watch sports, and allows men to bond while they are recieving the latest in men's grooming; Michael Craig even has the Resource and Educational Center where professionals can learn the latest techniques in men's grooming.
While spending a few hours at the shoot, my girl Original Najeema and I were able to witness all of the work that went into making the models get camera ready and view the instructional video that was made. We were able to speak with Mr. James and his cousin Alex Sutton III, who works in business development for the line, about their hopes for where these photos and videos will be distributed. A relationship was also established with Mr. Craig, who has had his barbershop open for approximately 3 years. The shoot also afforded us the opportunity to meet make-up artists, an image consultant, and a few of the models.
This was an eventful occasion, and I am glad that I was able to be a part. So, for you guys, and ladies, I suggest you give Frederick Benjamin a try. You won't be disappointed with the results. And to you gentlemen that live in the DMV, or will be visiting the area, I encourage you to visit Michael Craig Men's Grooming. I don't think you'll be disappointed with the results.
Until next time, stay nappturally beautiful...and handsome!

I Admit It- I Made a Mistake

Ok, I'm a big girl and can admit when I made a mistake. I should not have altered my natural-I should not have pressed my hair-I should not have let the Dominicans blow my hair out (no matter how pretty it looked!). What I thought would be a great alternative for my hair and a breather for me (wearing natural my sew-in)turned into a disaster...or made a bad situation worse. I took out my sew-in, used some great products (which I will tell you all about later), but when my hair dried and I was ready to wear it out I realized it is not in wear out condition. Meaning that I have so much damage to it that I had to cut it (sigh)... Yes, I have toyed around with this idea before, and I even shared it with you guys. But I didn't really THINK that I would have to cut it. To be honest with you, I'm not sure what I can contribute my hair damage to-it could be the heat I had put on it through pressing, blow-drying, and flat ironing, it could be I didn't condition it and take care of it the way I should have, the sew-in made it worse, or it be a combination of all of the above. All I know is after I took out my sew-in (which I received many compliments on), I was shocked and amazed at what I saw in the mirror and felt with my hands. My hair was broken off in some places, dry in other places, and just all around looked like a hot mess. Not to talk badly about children, but you all have seen the little girl whose mama you want to slap because she obviously has NOT been taking care of her child's hair; it's different lengths, straight in some places, short in others, and looks like no one cares about the health of her hair. Yes, I am that little girl (at 20 something), and I want to kick my own behind. I truly believe that if I had just kept wearing my natural curly 'fro last summer and using my Miss Jessie's Curly Pudding/Baby Buttercreme, Jamaican Lime Loc and Twist creme, and Carol's Daughter Pomade I would not be in this situation right now.
So, what can I do to get my hair back on the right track? Well, I've already taken one step. I have cut my hair so that it is even (for the most part). Yes, I do plan on going to a salon so a stylist can repair my hair, but to be honest I am really embarassed by the state of my tresses (or lack thereof). So, this summer I will definitely be on "Mission Impossible: The Napptural Girl Grows out her Tresses". If any of you have ANY suggestions on maintaining a short crop and helping to grow hair, I am ALL ears. Also, please feel free to share your hair disasters and how you fixed it. In the meantime, stay nappturally beautiful

Celebrating Black Love and Natural Hair

I know you all are just as shocked as I am-more than 2 posts from me for the month of April!! LOL! As April is my favorite month of the year (I get to celebrate my birthday and the weather truly turns to Springtime), I've let my excitement pour over into my blog. So, I came across this article on Clutch Magazine (LOVE this website!) and had to share with my followers. I'm sure you all are aware of the media hoopla surrounding single black women. Well, one blogger, Leila Nolliste, decided to do a "backlash" to the plight that seems to surround black women. She encouraged her followers to not only submit pictures of them with their husband or fiancee', but she also wanted to see their NATURAL hair!!! As someone who is beyond tired of hearing about the single black woman in mass media, I'm so encouraged by the this post. It lets me, and other women like me, know that love is out there...and it's real. We just have to be patient. Click here to read the article. Until next time, stay nappturally beautiful....

Encourage Yourself...and Each Other

In the Black community, the "crabs in a barrel" concept is nothing foreign to us...unfortunately. The practice of tearing each other down to bring ourselves up has been a part of our culture for centuries. It is so easy to talk about someone else in hopes of bringing up your own self esteem. This concept even goes to our hair. While living in Florida, I received a few "looks" (akin to "Why is she wearing her hair like that?") from other black people after I went natural and had my 'fro; it took my own father to get used to my new look, not to mention my 7 year old cousin that lives in South Carolina who said "I don't like your hair like that" when she saw me when I went home for a visit. After my move to DC, where there are many more women who are natural, I felt more comfortable in my choice. Now, my mother raised me to not let what people say or what they think about me to affect me. She always told me to hold my head high and to believe in myself. Wouldn't it be amazing if all women taught their daughters, nieces, sisters, and friends to believe in themselves no matter what? We need to teach our girls to believe that they are beautiful, no matter how short their hair, how much money they make, or where they live. I'm sure that most of us have experienced some form of childhood torture, directed at us or not, ranging from "You're too black", "Your hair is nappy", or "You're stupid", among others. I think that if girls were taught at a young age that they were beautiful and worthy, they would feel comfortable being their natural selves. Now, don't get me wrong-I'm not saying that if all Black women felt beautiful they would be natural. I'm just saying that if we were encouraged as little girls we would feel beautiful no matter what.
I know I was kinda all over the place with this post, but as someone who has worked with middle school and high school aged girls for years, I felt like this was something important to discuss. So, I challenge all of you to encourage that young girl you see at church, where you volunteer, or even that girl that lives in your neighborhood. If she hears it enough, she may start believing it...

The New 'Do

So, I did it... I got my sew-in! (But shhhhh....don't tell anyone, because a lot of people think it's my hair!) In an effort to give my hair a much needed break, and to switch up my style, I decided to get my sew-in. The good thing is is that it's not over the top, and people think it's my hair! My friend did, and it turned out GREAT! (even though my head still hurts a little...) A lot of my friends loved it and thought it was my hair, so I am very thankful for that! And another great thing is that I can style it as I did my own hair when I wore it natural. Depending on how much my hair grows during this process, I may go back to my hair during the late Fall/early Winter. I do have some breakage, so hopefully this break will allow my hair to grow. If not, I am prepared to cut my hair off, and start over...(Yeah, I'm actually still praying about that...) But don't fret, the hair stories will continue. I'm sure I will have tons of stories with the new 'do, and I will be sure to provide some tips. The post I'm really excited about posting is on products. I actually had a chance to be involved in a discussion on product choices, so I can't wait to share that with you guys! Until next time, stay nappturally beautiful!!

Keratin Hair Treatments

This past weekend, a friend and I were having a discussion on what to do with our hair for the summer (yes, she read my previous post!). She had mentioned that she was interested in getting a Keratin Hair Treatment, but didn't know that much about it. So, being the nice person I am, I decided to do some research and blog about it. Now, this post in no way is my endorsement for Keratin treatments, nor is it my saying don't get the Keratin treatment. This is strictly for informational purposes only! I will outline exactly what a Keratin treatment is, how long it lasts, the average costs, and any side effects.

First, Keratin is a natural protein found in nails, skin, and hair. A keratin treatment is a non-chemical (or low chemical depending on whose site you go to) treament that keeps hair straight up to 4 months. Keratin treatments claim to remove frizz and make hair straight, sleek, shiny, and more manageable. To seal in the keratin, hair can be flat-ironed for a total of 5 times with a 450 degree flat iron. The total process can take up to 5 hours, depending on the length and thickness of the hair, and no water can touch the hair for the first 72 hours after a treatment is done. Clients can also not wear bobby pins, hair ties/bows, nor can they tuck hair behind their ears. The average price is $300. Clients must also purchase a special shampoo and conditioner to use on their hair to maintain the treatment for as long as possible. As time goes on, the treatment will leave the hair and the hair will return to its normal state until the next treatment.

Some of the side effects of keratin treatments are excessive hair loss, deterioration of hair texture, harsh smells (while the product is being applied), the client have a burning sensation, and the treatment does contain formaldehyde.

So, ladies, I will say proceed with caution, as you would with any product or treatment you would do to your hair, whether it's a press, blow-out, etc. I hope this helped to inform those of you who wanted more information about Keratin treatments. If any of you have had a keratin treatment or know someone who has, please feel free to share your story. As always, stay nappturally beautiful!

To Weave or Not to Weave??? That is the Question.

As some of you know who know me personally, we are less than 2 weeks away from my birthday and about a week away from my birthday dinner. So as I prepare to get ready to get my look together, a lot of things are going through my head...how do I wear my hair for my birthday and what the heck am I going to do with my hair this summer??? Like most cities around the country that are in the South or near water, DC has a tendency to get a little humid during the hottest season of the year. Even though I started wearing my hair straight last summer (I'm still not sure why I picked the summertime), I'm looking to do something different this year. A few weeks ago, I called a friend of mine who does hair on the side and asked her if she would give me a sew-in. She graciously said yes. I figured this will give me a new look for my birthday, the Spring, and allow me not to worry about my hair while I work out. My hair will have a chance to take a break and not be manipulated everyday. No matter what ANYBODY says, maintaining natural hair is much more cumbersome than having relaxed hair. Anything I can do to minimize potential hair disasters, at least during the summer when there's a good chance I will be out and about going to cook-outs, pool parties, rooftop parties, or really just any outside activity, I'm willing to do-just short of cutting my hair off... So to not worry about what my hair's going to look like (a poofball after I've been outside for awhile based on Summer 2009), I think getting my sew-in for the summer is a great idea. And I may even switch it up later on in the season to get some braids or twists. It's wonderful that now my hair is trained to stay straight, but I'm not sure if I will have the same luck during the summer; I also miss wearing my hair natural, a la Jill Scott (who I happen to invoke with my natural look). I'm not sure I want to start taking the chance of looking crazy after straightening my hair during the summer that I took last year.
So, as I bring this post to an end, I think I've made the decision to go ahead and get that sew-in sooner rather than later. I'll let you know how it turns out. In the meantime, stay nappturally beautiful...

Tips to Keep Your Blowout Straight

So far so good on this workout thing. To be honest, today is really my first day working out this week! But I felt alive, awake, and alert! Working out in the morning is going to have to become a regular thing! As I had a few minutes today to read some articles, I came across this article on Essence.com (click on the title to read the article) on how to maintain your straight locks after a blowout. Now, I know the celebrities they picture are supposed to look like they just stepped out of a salon (which they probably did) and probably don't have natural hair, the tips are worth sharing. So as you look at pics of Alicia Keys, Zoe Saldana, and Veronica Webb, just to name a few, pay attention to the tips Essence provides. Now, I'm not advocating these tips as working, but I can say I (try to) brush my hair every night at least 100 times. (Brushing and combing hair daily is listed as one of the tips). So you may ask what I did with my hair today? I wrapped it as I worked out, blew it dry (it was a little damp after my workout), then flat ironed it. Now, I know in my previous post I mentioned not to put too much heat on your hair. I kept the temperature in the low 300's; I think the setting was on 302 or 311. My hair is still shiny and straight. But after getting it done over a week ago I'm very excited about my upcoming appointment this weekend!

A Healthy You Equals Healthy Hair

So after much speculation, saying "I'm gonna do this", and making New Year's Resolutions, I have FINALLY decided to get back in the gym and to start eating better! Two of my co-workers and I decided that beginning this coming Monday we will do a weekly weigh-in for the next three months. Now I know some of you may be wondering "What does this have to do with hair?" Well, I'll tell you! Everything in and on our body is connected to what we put in it, or what we eat. Now, for the most part, I have begun eating more healthy within the past few weeks, but I still love some occasional Party Cake Ice Cream or Sour Cream and Onion Lays. For Lent, I gave up Pork and sodas. (I'm considering giving these up on a permanent basis after Lent). We did decide that we would each give up one thing that we may indulge in once a week. So for me that would be my ice cream *sigh*. It's going to be hard, but I'm determined to make it work. So, a new me equals a new head of hair! Well, I can say that when I got my hair done this past Monday my stylist commented that my hair is growing, which is something every red-blooded black woman loves to hear! Even today, my hair is shiny and is very healthy. I have been drinking more water and I believe that my lack of sodas is aiding in the health of my hair. Since I have seen positive results, I have decided to take this one step further. I hope to see even more results once I begin working out on a regular basis. So, to assist those that may be wondering what to eat to ensure you have a healthy head of hair, here are my own little tidbits based on things I've read. 1. Definitely drink PLENTY of water. H2O gives you clearer skin and aids in healthy hair and nail growth. 2. Get plenty of exercise 3. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. 4. Put as little heat as possible on your hair. Heat has the potential to break hair off and cause split ends. I think these tips will help any of us, whether we have natural or relaxed locs, or even if we're male or female. A healthy you equates to healthy hair!

Natural Intervention 101: What to Do When the Perm Box is Calling | Clutch Magazine: The Digital Magazine for the Young, Contemporary Woman of Color

Natural Intervention 101: What to Do When the Perm Box is Calling Clutch Magazine: The Digital Magazine for the Young, Contemporary Woman of Color

As I sat here and read this article, I began to let my mind wander on the many times I have thought about going back to getting a relaxer-those times when I didn't feel like doing my hair or I was having a bad hair day or I saw somebody with a really cute straight hairstyle or when it wasn't fun anymore. I think all of us natural girls go through a period when we second guess ourselves and say "Did I make the right decision?". Don't fret, girls; you're not alone. Thankfully, I can say I haven't had this thought (of getting a perm) since my last hair appointment! My hair is still straight and shiny, even in this gloomy weather. One thing I definitely agree with the author of the article is getting together a support group. When I lived in FL and had just made the decision to go natural a co-worker invited me to join a natural hair group. All of the women were natural (or going natural) and we shared hair stories over drinks and food. It was a great way for me, someone at the time who was transitioning, to hear from other women who were natural and loved it. They even had product and style suggestions. It was perfect for me! At the last meeting before I moved we even took pictures so the host could add them to her blog to document all of our hair journeys. I'm definitely thinking about starting a natural hair group in the DMV area. There are so many resources that we don't take advantage of. So...when you get that feeling of going back to the perm, call your interventionist! :) She'll remind you of the joys and freedom that only we natural girls can feel.

A Little Old Sprinkled with a Little New...

So after talking with a fellow blogger and someone whose opinion I value dearly (you know who you are!), I decided to switch up the blog a little bit. As almost 4 years of stuff is a lot to catch up on and to ensure that I stay current with pertinent hair stories, I have decided to write about my current hair stories, and where appropriate, mix in a little old hair stories.

Beginning Summer 2009 I decided to wear my straight. So I asked co-workers and friends for a salon that presses hair. I found a salon and began going to get my hair pressed every 2 weeks. My hair didn't always stay the straightest, even after I had been going for a few months and the humid summer months had passed. So after listening to a few other friends I decided to go to a Dominican salon, which are notoriously known for getting a sista's hair straight, no matter how tight her curl! :) But by the time I decided to go, I had stopped going to the salon to get my hair pressed and had started to do it myself. I figured it couldn't be that hard, and I had been doing a pretty good job of "touching up my roots" so far so actually doing my own hair shouldn't be a problem, right??? Yeah, I was wrong. For the most part I did a pretty good job, except my hair had broken off... :( I went to the Dominican salon, had a consultation with...I'll call her Luisa, and then made an appointment. At the first appointment, I got some treatment (I don't remember the name), got a hair chop, and voila! walked out of the salon. I did like how straight and shiny my hair was, and it looked like it was on the right track to being healthy again. In subsequent appointments I was satisfied and happy with the end results.

But I went a month without going to see Luisa. I made an appointment to see her this past Monday. All I can say is I will NEVER wait that long again to get my hair done. My hair didn't seem to retain moisture, the roots were a mess since I couldn't press them like I normally could when my hair was longer, and as she was doing my hair I jumped, squirmed, and wished I had a relaxer!! (Sidenote: My wishing for a relaxer is nothing new; that thought goes through my head at least 2-3 times a week.) Even the first time I went to her I wasn't as uncomfortable as I was sitting in that chair on Monday. But I was happy with the end result...straight hair. I've never really liked how stylists style my hair, so even though I didn't really like the style, it didn't matter because I had STRAIGHT hair!!! And my hair is still growing, so I consider that a big plus. Going through that experience made me realize that I will NEVER go that long without getting my hair done... at least until my hair grows a little longer and I can get to my roots myself! :)

The Process

Hey, people! Since I want to share my entire natural haircare journey with you, this post will focus on how I went natural. I do have almost 4 years of stories to share so you're in for a ride! But I promise to break them up and still keep things interesting!

So, after telling my stylist that I wanted to go natural I had to decide how I wanted to go natural. Did I want to grow out my relaxer or chop off all of my relaxed hair and start over? My stylist suggested I cut it all off...but if you know me you know I wasn't having that! I decided to grow my hair out. This process took a year. But for that year, in an effort to reduce breakage and making sure my head didn't look crazy with half natural/half permed hair, I wore braids and sew-ins.

In September 2007, I finally decided to wear "my hair". It was a really traumatic experience for me. I only had a few strands of processed hair left, which my stylist cut off, she styled my hair, and VOILA! I was officially natural! To be honest, I wasn't that excited about it... I HATED the way she styled my hair. At first, it looked good. She braided it, put me under the dryer, and when my hair was dry took the braids out. It had this wavy, funky look to it. Then...she pulled out the curling iron and proceeded to curl my hair!! When I left, I felt like a big sponge. And to make matters worse, I was going to hang out with a friend (which I tried to get out of since my hair looked crazy)...so I was VERY self-conscious about my look. She made me feel better when I got to her door, but I know I looked a hot mess.

I tried to salvage my hair the next day, and I think I did a pretty good job. But it would be an interesting journey to find a style that suited me just right and one that I felt comfortable wearing...

The Beginning...

About 3 1/2 years ago I decided to go natural; for those of you that don't understand that means I decided to stop getting my hair chemically relaxed. I did this for two main reasons. One, after seeing multiple friends with their natural hair styles I began to wonder what my hair would look like it in its natural state. They had all styles from straight/sleek to curly to fro'd out. I love the versatility that I saw my natural friends having, and I wanted to experience it for myself. The second reason I wanted to go natural was because I saw the damage that getting your hair relaxed on a regular basis could do to your scalp...not on the OUTSIDE but on the INSIDE. I saw a picture of a woman's scalp who had been getting relaxers for 20 years. It was VERY black and looked unhealthy. This picture was next to a woman who had not had relaxers in a number of years; her scalp was a healthy, pink color. After I saw that picture, and two of my linesisters at the Atlanta Classic in 2006, I officially stopped getting my hair relaxed.
Needless to say, this has been a tumultuous journey, from finding what products to use, finding styles for my hair, and finding a stylist who knows how to do natural hair, but I'm still on it! This blog will serve as a way for me to share my feelings and stories of dealing with my natural hair and as a way for all of us natural girls to share our resources and suggestions. This can also serve as motivation or a swift kick for those girls who are thinking about going natural and need some encouragement, guidance, etc. So, happy reading, and stay truly napptural...