Monday, November 17, 2014

Congratulations to the Newly Weds!


I can't state enough how much I love this picture of Solange Knowles on her wedding day. Unique, flawless beauty. Congratulations to the newly weds.

Monday, October 20, 2014

Sunday, October 12, 2014

Gone Girl

"The hallmark of a sociopath is the lack of empathy". 
I just came back from seeing Gone Girl and I got the biggest mind shag ever. That movie was dark, raw, crazy, riveting and hella good. Can't believe the level of story telling coupled with amazing film scoring. I was utterly and totally impressed. Best $8.50 i've spent on a movie in a while. I have four words for anyone reading this post, GO SEE GONE GIRL! Peep the trailer below.

Wednesday, October 1, 2014

Honest-ly

Hi guys, It's been awhile. I've been so busy with work and home that I haven't had time to check in with you.  
Switching gears a bit, I wanted to shared with you something I'm super excited about.  As stated in previous blog posts, since the birth of my daughter last year, my family is moving in the organic, all natural direction.  Not only are we trying to eat cleaner but also going green in the everyday products we use for cleaning and personal hygiene.  For awhile now, I've been hearing a lot about The Honest Company who specialize in making products that are organic and free of all those harsh chemicals that are not good for our health. So I decided to purchase and try a few of the products myself. 
So far, I'm in LOVE with the beauty products. They are so gentle and the smell is light but fragrant at the same time. I love that the products are tear free and safe for use for the entire family. Next up, I will try the cleaning products. 


Monday, September 8, 2014

Hair Holy Grail

Once in a lifetime (if we're lucky) we stumble upon that magic product that makes you buckle in the knees every time you use it.  I can now declare that I have found such a product.
I've been using this product for a few months now, just to be certain that it wasn't a one trick pony. Guys, it's the "bomb diggity". Every hairlista knows the importance of regular deep conditioning.  Not only does it promotes hair growth, restores elasticity to the hair making it more manageable, repairs damage done as a result of harsh manipulation but also aids in easier detangling. I'm most excited about the easier detangling. Those of you who are familiar with my hair journey, know my perils when it comes to detangling. It is so time consuming and my hair can be pretty stubborn when it is ready. There are days when I just want to cut it all off because of how frustrating it can become.
Enough talk, here is the magnificent product that has me wilding out. 
I'm not jiving guys! This stuff really works! I became familiar with this hair orgasmic recipe through popular YouTube Vlogger and Natural Hair Guru, Naptural85.  After seeing her amazing results, I decided to give it a try and input a few extras. The original mix called for plain greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar and lavender essential oil. I added peppermint and rosemary essential oil to the mix and the result was a divine concoction that had my stubborn tangles slipping around each other.  I went from taking forever to detangle to barely any time at all. The tangles literally just melted away as I worked the product in. I tested the mixture by working it on over a generous amount of coconut oil on  dry, days old,  twist out. After I washed it out, I followed up with a moisturizing conditioner (the mixture is protein laden) to provide balance. My hair felt amazing! I use this mixture once a month as recommended for all protein heavy treatments.  I strongly recommend it for all hair types. Go ahead give it a try, you won't regret it. 

Here's the video of Naptural85's  original recipe.

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Hair Coloring

I've been natural for three and a half years. Although i'm thrilled with the overall health and length of my hair, I have a slight problem. Slowly, but surely, there are a few grey hairs that are getting on my last nerve. Currently, I mask my greys by strategically parting my hair to cover them and another way that is too embarrassing to say. Right now, I have an incredible itch to color my hair so that I could take care of my greys in a more lasting way.  I'm hesitant as to what system I want to use because I don't want my years of good hair health to go down the drain by using a coloring system that could potentially damage my hair. I've done some research and concluded that I need a system that is ammonia and peroxide free. I came across Naturtint and Herbatint.
Both products claim: 
  • NO MORE AMMONIA
  • NO MORE SMELL
  • NO MORE PERFUME
  • NO MORE ALCOHOL
  • NO MORE PARABENS
  • LESS PEROXIDE WITH A NATURAL RESULT
  • 100% GREY COVER 
I'M SCARED YOU'LL! I don't want to cause damage to my hair or alter my texture in any way but i'm tired of these greys. Have any of you used the products mentioned before or know of safer alternatives that can color my greys in a timely and healthy way? Looking forward to your recommendations.

Wednesday, August 13, 2014

Natural Hair - Relaxed Mentality

I recently went to a natural hair meet up and was immediately overjoyed by the amount of newly naturals present. They were all so young and free and bursting with excitement about their journey.


As the event progressed and I listened to the questions asked and statements made, a very unsettling question popped into my mind.


Has having natural hair become a fad? *A fad can be described as something that gains popularity very quickly but only lasts for a short period of time*.


Over the last two years, in my hometown, the natural hair movement has really taken off. In previous time, there were a few naturals and even fewer natural hair products on the local market. As it currently stands, more beauty supply stores are carrying natural hair products, more local social media support groups are being established and natural hair events are becoming the norm.
With natural hair now "fashionable" for Afro textured women, are we approaching it from the point of getting to know and appreciate our hair or more from the point of this is what is wearing now? 


I call the latter, "RHM" short for relaxed hair mentality. 


If you fall into any of the categories below, it's quite possible you may have "RHM".


1. You're obsessed with slicking your hair down. 

2. You still try to comb your hair with a fine teeth comb.

3. You can't live without your flat iron.

4. You try to wear styles you wore when you were relaxed. 

5. You refer to hair as being "good hair" or "bad hair". 

6. You idolize those with looser curl patterns.

7. You are a product junkie always on the hunt for that magic potion that will make your hair grow longer and faster. 

8. You'll try anything and pay any amount if it promises to give you longer hair.
Word of advice to all the new natural hair ladies out there: take the time to learn your hair and love it just as it grows out of your scalp. 

Thursday, August 7, 2014

I'm baaack & Guest Post

Hi guys, after weeks of being unplugged from the blog world (see previous post) I'm back! Today, I have a guest blogger..... my hubby! Yaaaaay! He's here to write a review on an eatery we happened across on our summer vacation in Montreal. Check it out below!


Minced: La Maison Des Burgers - ooh la la!
Most people don't think fine dining when they think of hamburgers. But my family & I stumbled across a tiny hole in the wall that makes "burgers & fries" a wonderful gustatory and gastronomic experience.

Minced: La Maison Des Burgers (literally translated - "Minced: Burger House") is a new restaurant on Rue St Denis in Montreal Quebec. It has only been open for 2 months but is building up its following. When we arrived for lunch in the late afternoon on a Wednesday, we were the only persons in the restaurant. We only stopped after looking at the menu and seeing that they served several different types of burgers (my son loves burgers!!!!).

We were seated and the waitress let us know that they served a full range of drinks, including sangrias, which sealed the deal for us staying. We ordered and were able to watch as our patties were handcrafted by the owner/head chef and prepared on their grill. All the meat and produce is bought fresh same day. And the brioche buns are specially made for the restaurant. Our son ordered a "lazy cow" and I ordered the "stinger". Not only is the certified angus patty made fresh, but the dressing for the salad that comes with the burger is made fresh, as well as the special sauces that are put on each sandwich. Talk about attention to detail. All of these touches add, what the Montrealers would call a certain "je ne sais qoui" to the experience.

When we bit into the burgers, they were juicy and bursting with flavor. The spicy burger had the right amount of "kick" to it and the salad provided a cool counterbalance to the meal. With a merlot, this completed the meal. Or did it?

There was still room for dessert. On the menu was a decadent chocolate fudge brownie, crowned (like the royal mount the City is named after) with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice-cream. This dessert was the jewel in the crown. Tres magnifique!

After lunch, we chatted for a bit with the waitress who told us about other items on the menu, like the chicken, lobster and lamb burgers. We told her that we would spread the word about their new gem of a burger house and wished them the best before heading onto more adventures in the city.

If you are ever on the island of Montreal, you should make a stop at this little place on Rue St Denis to enjoy a good meal and friendly service.

Bon appétit!


Minced: La Maison Des Burgers 

Thursday, July 10, 2014

Disappointment

Hi guys, just wanted to pop in quickly to let you know my dilemma.
My laptop (a gift from my hubby) was stolen. The police were able to trace the old location of it but the battery must have died making it inoperable (and impossible to trace) until the scum bag reconnects to an internet source. I can`t begin to tell you how disappointed I am. But nevertheless I will try to remain positive because I believe bigger and brighter things are ahead for me. Until I am able to blog again, please keep me in your prayers.

Wednesday, July 2, 2014

Celebrity Hotties

With summer here, it's time to take a tour of some celebrity hotties that make summer look good. 
*Click the slideshow to feast your eyes on my favourites. Who's your favourite?

Tuesday, June 10, 2014

I've got a weakness for sweetness


A friend blessed me with this plate of deliciousness this evening. I was overjoyed when I got them because mangoes are one of my absolute favourite fruit. I love all kinds of mangoes and I love them just as, or in daiquiris, cakes, salads and just about anyway they are prepared. 

Mangoes are often described as the king of all fruits because they pack a mean punch of health benefits. 

Five Top Reasons To Eat Mangoes
1. Fight Cancers (Antioxidants like quercetin, and methylgallat present in mango protect the body against colon, breast, leukaemia and prostate cancers). 
2. Cleanse the skin (Mangoes help you unclog your pores and add freshness to the face).
3. Weight Loss  (The fibrous fruit boosts the digestive function of the body by burning additional calories, helping in weight loss).
4. Aphrodisiac (Mango has aphrodisiac qualities and is also called the ‘love fruit’).
5. Aids concentration and memory (This fruit is rich in glutamine acid– an important protein for concentration and memory). 

For more scientifically proven reasons to eat mangoes like the ones above, peep the link below.

Thursday, June 5, 2014

Slowing Down

Do you ever get the feeling that time is passing you by too quickly?
I know that there are 24 hours in a day and in reality, that's quite a bit of time. Out of that 24 hours, an average of 18hours is jam packed with stuff. Whether it be work, school or people, we're always on the go. This week especially, I felt like things were moving a bit too fast. I needed things to slow down so that I could catch my breath. So I did just that. I stopped to appreciate the wonders of nature. I watched the sun set. Now and again it's good to pause and hear the music, before the song is over.


Tuesday, June 3, 2014

Recipe of the Week - Fried Rice


I'm going to come right out and state the fact.... I have a serious weakness for rice and I ain't ashamed to say it. To pacify my cravings for this scrumptious side dish, this week, I cooked up some Fried Rice. Needless to say, it was "delicioso".  This is a simple recipe that could go along with any entree. Peep the details below ≧◉◡◉≦

INGREDIENTS
  • cooked rice *
  • olive oil
  • white onion, chopped
  • sweet green peas
  • soy sauce 
  • eggs
  • garlic powder

DIRECTIONS
1. Warm olive oil in a hot skillet. Add onion and garlic powder. Cook until onions are tender.
2. Add the eggs and scramble. Mix cooked rice into  the skillet. Fry for 3 - 4 minutes.
3. Add sweet green peas and soy sauce.
4. Mix and fry in skillet for an additional 2 -3 minutes.

Thursday, May 29, 2014

Still I Rise!


One of my favourite Maya Angelou poems. Although she has left this life, her POWERFUL words will live on for generations to come. It's amazing how the stroke of the pen and words uttered, can inspire so many. That's what Maya Angelou was to me, AN INSPIRATION.


Tuesday, May 27, 2014

Thank God I'm Natural

The natural hair community has been a buzz about the T.G.I.N natural hair product line. So, like a good product junkie, I decided to try it out for myself. I visited the company's website and was elated that they sold a sample pack of their goodies.
The Sample Pack includes 2 oz sizes of the following products: Sulfate Free Shampoo, Triple Moisture Rich Conditioner, Honey Miracle Hair Mask and the Butter Cream Daily Moisturizer.

Sulfate Free Shampoo
Product Claims:     
Cleans hair, gently and effectively

  • Sulfate free formula
  • Does not contain harsh detergents that strip the hair of its natural oils
  • Smoothes the cuticle surface
  • Leaves hair feeling soft and smooth
  • Infused with Pro Vitamin B5 for reduced breakage and increased moisture
  • No parabens, sulfates, petrolatum, lanolin, artificial colors, or animal testing.

  • ***My Experience***
    Most shampoos leave your hair with that striped feeling. But this one left my hair clean and moisturised. One big surprise for me was the large amount of lather the shampoo had. I was expecting little to no lather because of the sulfate free claims. 

    Triple Moisture Rich Conditioner
    Product Claims:
    Leaves hair feeling soft, smooth and manageable with every use
    Replenishes hair’s natural oils
  • Penetrates hair’s cuticle to allow for thorough conditioning
  • Helps prevent split ends and reduce breakage
  • Promotes healthy hair growth
  • No parabens, sulfates, petrolatum, lanolin, artificial colors, or animal testing.

  • ***My Experience***
    I loved the smell of the conditioner. As soon as I put it on my hair, it began the task of making my strands soft and easier to manipulate.

    Honey Miracle Hair Mask
    Product Claims:
    • Restores life to dry, damaged, or color treated hair 
    • Improves shine and manageability 
    • Locks in moisture and repairs damage 
    • Reduces shedding and breakage
    ***My Experience***
    Because of the length and thickness of my hair, the sample provided of this product was barely enough to coat one quarter of my head of hair. I felt that my strands were not saturated enough to see any affects of the product. I was very disappointed with the barely 1oz amount of product that was sent in the container.  I guess I'll have to purchase the full size of this product to give a better review.

    Butter Cream Daily Moisturiser
    Product Claims:
    Hydrates dry curls and coils

  • Improves manageability
  • Reduces frizz and fly aways
  • Promotes healthy hair growth, shine, and softness
  • May also be used as a setting cream for two strand twists and twist-outs
  • No parabens, sulfates, petrolatum, lanolin, artificial colors, or animal testing.
  • ***My Experience***                                                                                                                                              I loved the texture of the butter cream. It wasn't heavy or too light. The smell is amazing and I loved how moisturised my hair felt when I put it on. However, my hair felt slightly sticky to the touch (but that could be a combination of the butter cream and the twist and define butter I used to seal my hair). When I took down my twists, there was a soft definition to it which I liked.
  • ***Overall Conclusion***                                                                                                                                                     I would give the entire collection 3.5 stars out of 5.  Although the collection was nice, nothing was quite out of the ordinary for me. It performed the same as most of the regular products on the market. I was satisfied but not blown away.  The list of ingredients in the products were all healthy top shelf items that you would want in a quality natural hair product. I liked the fact that the first ingredient listed in each of the products was water.  From the entire collection, I would probably repurchase the full size container of the butter cream daily moisturiser. 
  • Friday, May 23, 2014

    Teachers Appreciation Day

    Normally in the month of May, a day is set aside to honour teachers around the world for their hard work and dedication. Teachers are that special group of service men and women who are often times overlooked and drastically underpaid. This week, I'd like to give a shout out to all those teachers who work tirelessly and give so much of themselves each and everyday of the school week. Hats off to you and be encouraged.
    Thank a teacher today!

    Wednesday, May 21, 2014

    Recipe of the Week

    This week's recipe is an old time family favourite. It's quick, easy and perfect for a weekday meal.


    Tortilla Rolls
    Ingrediants
    flour tortillas
    ground chuck (or meat of your choice)
    ketchup
    ¼tsp paprika 
    ¼tsp crushed basil leaves
    ¼tsp crushed pepper flakes
    ¼tsp red pepper
    1-tsp garlic powder
    pinch of salt
    ¼ cup diced onions
    ¼ cup diced sweet peppers
    shredded cheddar cheese

    Directions
    1. Cook meat until done.
    2. Add onions and sweet pepper. Let cook for another 2 minutes.
    3. Add basil, pepper flakes, red pepper, salt and ketchup. Let simmer for about 1 - 2 minutes. Remove pan from heat.
    4. Spread meat onto one side of a tortilla, sprinkle with shredded cheese and roll. 
    5. Place tortilla rolls into the oven(350degrees) for about 5 -7 minutes.

    Enjoy

    Thursday, May 15, 2014

    Recipe of the Week

    In an effort to add more content to my blog, I've embarked on the challenge of sharing a recipe every week that my family and I have found to be delicious and hopefully you would too.

    This week's recipe was especially scrumptious. I found it on Pinterest and decided to tweak it just a bit to my family's liking.  I absolutely adore the colors in the salad as well as the delicious mix of pasta, meat and fresh veggies.  The recipe calls for you to let the finished product chill in the refrigerator for about an hour, but after sampling it during the preparation, I couldn't wait that long. The recipe is very easy to prepare and only took me about 15 minutes. Go ahead, give it a try! You might just like it. 

    Italian Pasta Salad

    Ingredients
    a quarter cup of red onions
    a half a cup of green bell peppers
    1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
    1 cup of cherry tomatoes (each cut in half)
    2 cups of italian sausage, cubed (I used turkey sausage)
    1 box of tri colored pasta
    1 cup of Robust Italian Dressing

    Directions
    1. Cook pasta to al dente, 7-8 minutes. Drain and let cool.
    2. Saute sausage for 3-4 minutes making sure both sides are browned slightly.
    3. Chop onions, green bell pepper and cherry tomatoes.
    4. In a large bowl, add pasta, then the onions, green bell pepper and cherry tomatoes.
    5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mixture.
    6. Pour Robust Italian Dressing over the top and mix.
    7. Place in the refrigerator to chill for at least an hour.
    8. Serve and enjoy!

    Here is the link to the original recipe.

    Monday, May 12, 2014

    Celebrity Mother's Day

    One of the most viewed videos this weekend was that of Kevin Durant (NBA - MVP) paying tribute to his mom during his acceptance speech. Like many who saw it, I too was moved to tears when I saw it. 
    But one tribute that didn't get much press, that really moved me to the core was Eminem's video tribute to his mom. Those of you who are familiar with Eminem's earlier work, you may recall his video that bashed his mother (check it out here). Well, now he's apologetic and poured out his heart. It took awhile for him to recognise the many sacrifices his mother made. She was not perfect, but she did all that she could under the circumstances. Eminem renders very passionate and emotional lyrics in his song "Headlights" that was amply complimented by the soulful harmony of Nate Reuss. I sincerely hope he and his mother are able to reconcile.  
    Peep the video below. (Please be warned that some of the lyrics contain language that may not be pleasing to all). 






    Wednesday, April 23, 2014

    Sleeping Positions

    I never really thought much about the importance of sleeping positions before until this week.  Normally, when it comes to sleep, I just curl up and fall into dream land never paying much attention to possible stress my body would go through because of my posture during sleep.  As a consequence of one too many fetal positions, I was aroused by a stiff neck. That painful realty led me to think about the way I slept at night. I researched online and found some information that talked about the healthiest sleeping positions.  Throughout my research, one thing that stood out was that, not only could your most loved sleeping position give you back and neck pain, but it could also cause premature wrinkles and even sagging breasts in women. What sleeping position do you normally take when settling into bed? Check out below to discover the best positions for your body and the one you may want to avoid.





    Thursday, April 10, 2014

    Tales of a Bread Maker

    After giving birth to our beautiful baby girl last year, my husband and I made a conscious decision to eat healthier and as organic as possible. We now buy organic fruits and veggies and make our own baby purees. Bread was one of the few items that we were still consuming store bought. Each week, we would spend about $7 on bread. Even though the bread was tasty, we were vary about the cost and the fact that it was imported (making it not the freshest).  Because of these things, just this weekend, we decided to buy a bread maker. By purchasing a bread maker, it guarantees us knowing exactly what goes into the bread we eat and how it is prepared. In addition to better quality bread we also would save quite a bit of money on our grocery bill by eliminating having to purchase bread weekly. The bread maker itself was reasonably priced and in fact, it would pay for itself in about 4 -5 months.

    We purchased the West Bend 41300 High Rise Bread Maker (which you can find here).
    Below is a picture of the first loaf I baked in my new appliance. The bread was DELICIOUS!  In fact, it was sooooo good, it was gone by the end of the day. I am so happy I decided to go down this route and I am very proud of myself for eventually falling into the role of a domestic goddess (shameless gloating, lol).
                 
                 




    Monday, March 31, 2014

    Natural Hair Tips

    I've been on my natural hair journey for a little over three years now. Along the way, I came across some tips that have helped me to not only achieve and retain length but also to help make the journey enjoyable. Today, I share some of those tips with those of you considering the elimination of chemicals in your hair routine or are already on a natural hair journey.
                  Before








                                           After
                   


    1. Love the hair you were born with. It wasn't until I learned to accept the hair God has given me did I start to see progress.

    2. Keep it Simple. Our hair does not need a bunch of products to thrive. All that is needed is water for moisture and a oil or butter to seal the moisture in.
           +      
    3. Low Manipulation and Protective Styling is key to length retention. It is perfectly okay to let your hair down now and again and on occasion let it blow in the wind. But too much styling and wearing it out can have negative consequences. My favourite protective style for length retention is two strand twists which 95% of the time, my hair is in.

    4. Deep Conditioning. This is extremely important for not only easy detangling but also in adding a moisture boost to dry tendrils. I make it a habit to deep condition my hair at least once every two weeks.

    5. Heat is the devil. If you're natural or have relaxed hair, too much heat is bad for your hair. Heat dries your hair out thus causing it to break easily. If you choose to apply heat to your hair, always use a heat protectant.


    6. Our hair likes satin at bedtime. Satin bonnets or satin pillow cases allows the hair to retain moisture and prevents breakage.


    I hope you find these tips useful.

    Thursday, March 20, 2014

    Resurrection

    I've read all the reviews, seen all the previews and heard all the chatter about what an amazing show it is. The whole concept of the show is very fascinating to me. Every time I hear the song, "I'm coming home," it's like i'm being pulled to the show by some unseen force. But.... there is an internal fight going on in me.  I'm fighting to resist this incredible urge to watch. Why the conflict? I'm seriously afraid. I'm afraid of falling into a rabbit hole with no way out. I'm afraid of the questions I may have. I'm petrified of where my mind will wonder.
    Don't get me wrong. I know that the show is fictional but I'm still afraid.  Geez, I need to grow a pair and just watch the show already. It ain't that serious. Right?
    Have you guys seen Abc's Resurrection yet? 

    Monday, March 10, 2014

    Dreams

    Hold fast to dreams
    For if dreams die
    Life is a broken-winged bird
    That cannot fly.
    Hold fast to dreams
    For when dreams go
    Life is a barren field
    Frozen with snow. 

    By: Langston Hughes

    I remember first being introduced to this poem in literature class during 7th grade (well over 15 years ago). It has stuck with me over the years and is definitely one of my all time favorites. It has inspired me and kept me motivated in pursuit of my dreams. I encourage each of you to never give up on your dreams. Don't let anyone tell you they are impossible. Like the old adage says, "If you can dream it, you can achieve it". Happy Monday All!

    Tuesday, March 4, 2014

    Celebrity Style Icon

    If there is one person in the "celebrosphere" that I look up to in terms of style, it's Mrs. Victoria Beckham. 

    She has a style that is unmatched (in my opinion). It is timeless, meaning that it can withstand the fashion changes of many generations. She always looks well put together and classy. Each item of clothing that adorns her body is purposeful (well duh) and adds an element of sophistication that screams "look at me". I love everything about her style, from the simple to the elaborate she rocks everything she wears.

    Check out the slides to see some of my favorite looks.

                          
                       Styles by Victoria Beckham 

    Tuesday, February 25, 2014

    Maxi Dresses

    With spring fast approaching, i'm already feeling the itch to wear maxi dresses. I just love the fluidity of them and the way they rest ever so gingerly on the body. Below are a few of the styles i'm crushing on.
     
                    
    Maxi Dresses - slideshows

    Saturday, February 22, 2014

    Massage Therapy

    I'm in desperate need of a massage. My poor shoulders and neck ache like nobody's business. My dear husband tried his best to work all my kinks out (bless his heart for trying) but I need a professional to rub me tender. 



    I saw the item below on Amazon and i'm considering purchasing it. Have anyone ever used something like this before? Would you recommend the use of a massage seat cushion? Help

    Friday, February 14, 2014

    Love: Bogo Shoe Sale

    When it comes to shoes, some deals are just too fab to pass up! 





    Tuesday, February 4, 2014

    Places I'd Like To Visit

    One of my greatest passions in life is to study different cultures. I enjoy learning about and connecting with people from different walks of life. One of the best ways to pursue this passion (I have found) is through travel. So, each year, my family and I embark on some of the most memorable journeys imaginable. Below, are my travel goals. What is the most memorable place you've visited?

    Alaska
                          
     South Africa
               
    Australia
                                           
    India
                          
    Germany
                         
     Japan
                            
     Las Vegas
                   
     Hawaii
                          
     Rome
                                 
    China