Change. What more can I say. I am constantly trying something new, thinking of a new idea, trying to change something with myself, within myself, or my physical self. On Friday night, I came in from happy hour, which wasn't as happy as I remember it. Actually, it was slightly boring. Yes, I did partake in a drink or two, nothing that would get me drunk. And I remember sitting there thinking that something has to change. This is so the normal Friday night. Why can't we change it up?!?!
It wasn't just the same hood dudes that were there, the monotonous music, the lack of stimulating conversation, but I just wanted a change. Something different. Is there anything wrong with that? I wanted to have a Friday night like I see in the movies or on tv. Just something different. I am just not feeling the normal. Yes, that happy hour that I went to wasn't just a normal happy hour, it actually had a purpose. Most of the proceeds benefited the charity of my friends choice.
Even in the midst of happy hour, I couldn't even enjoy it. My job stays on my mind and I am constantly on call. Crisis at the Site. Something has to change, and for the better.
Saturday, March 31, 2012
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
The Oralbrush
From time to time, we all can use a little help in the breath department. A couple of years ago after searching for the magic gum, toothpaste, and mouthwash, I found something that would change my life. Literally. A tongue scraper.
Let me me start by saying that I am constantly plagued by sinus issues. So, no matter how much I brushed, chewed, and swished it never really made a difference due to the constant draining that I had going on. While doing some research I came across this article about a tongue scraper and how it can help get rid of bad breath. Ok, I will give it a try. I went to my local Wal-Mart and found it for about $3. This may sound nasty, but the first time that I ever used it there was so much...so much gunk that looked like boogers on it. I mean, it was 3 minute process and I couldn't believe what was coming out of my mouth. No wonder it smelled. Part of it was from my sinus problems and the drainage and stuff.
Fast forward a couple of years and I still use a tongue scraper, but I have recently upgraded. I now use the Ora-Brush. Its just like my beloved tongue scraper, only better! It has like these little brushes that help get deeper into your tongue.
Since I have been using a tongue scraper for so long, its not as much gunk on it, but I can notice a difference with using the Ora-Brush. You want to treat your tongue scraper just like a toothbrush and change it every 3 months.
My current regime consists of: brushing with Crest, using the Ora-Brush, and rinsing with SmartMouth two part mouthwash. I must admit, I don't floss like I should. I am telling you, it will make a difference in your breath. Give it a try!
Let me me start by saying that I am constantly plagued by sinus issues. So, no matter how much I brushed, chewed, and swished it never really made a difference due to the constant draining that I had going on. While doing some research I came across this article about a tongue scraper and how it can help get rid of bad breath. Ok, I will give it a try. I went to my local Wal-Mart and found it for about $3. This may sound nasty, but the first time that I ever used it there was so much...so much gunk that looked like boogers on it. I mean, it was 3 minute process and I couldn't believe what was coming out of my mouth. No wonder it smelled. Part of it was from my sinus problems and the drainage and stuff.
Fast forward a couple of years and I still use a tongue scraper, but I have recently upgraded. I now use the Ora-Brush. Its just like my beloved tongue scraper, only better! It has like these little brushes that help get deeper into your tongue.
Since I have been using a tongue scraper for so long, its not as much gunk on it, but I can notice a difference with using the Ora-Brush. You want to treat your tongue scraper just like a toothbrush and change it every 3 months.
My current regime consists of: brushing with Crest, using the Ora-Brush, and rinsing with SmartMouth two part mouthwash. I must admit, I don't floss like I should. I am telling you, it will make a difference in your breath. Give it a try!
Monday, March 26, 2012
Couch to 5K....
Hey People! So, I know that I am probably just writing these journal entries to give my fingers a workout, but I'll continue to do until 30lbs. are gone.
I've been thinking about cancelling my gym membership because I never go. I always do workouts at home or just walk around the neighborhood since its been so nice out lately, and spring here! Not to mention, save myself $27 a month. Ok, wait, I just had an epiphany, that is 324 beans that I could save a year!
Alright, enough with the math and the gym babble. I am going to start doing the Couch to 5K. I have been wanting to do this for a while now, and I think that this is the perfect time. Timed just right, I can run (using that word loosely, more like jog) a 5K before I turn 30 years old.
There are so many podcasts and training programs out there. I chose to do Running Into Shape's podcast for two reason: She has some semi-decent music and I support her for being a bigger woman and doing her thang!
Want to join, post a response or reply below. April 1st is the start day. No fooling around! Haha!
Taken from my 3/20/2012 calorie count journal entry
I've been thinking about cancelling my gym membership because I never go. I always do workouts at home or just walk around the neighborhood since its been so nice out lately, and spring here! Not to mention, save myself $27 a month. Ok, wait, I just had an epiphany, that is 324 beans that I could save a year!
Alright, enough with the math and the gym babble. I am going to start doing the Couch to 5K. I have been wanting to do this for a while now, and I think that this is the perfect time. Timed just right, I can run (using that word loosely, more like jog) a 5K before I turn 30 years old.
There are so many podcasts and training programs out there. I chose to do Running Into Shape's podcast for two reason: She has some semi-decent music and I support her for being a bigger woman and doing her thang!
Want to join, post a response or reply below. April 1st is the start day. No fooling around! Haha!
Taken from my 3/20/2012 calorie count journal entry
Monday, March 19, 2012
Sh!t People Say to Transitioners..
No, I am not jumping on the whole '___ people say to ___' wagon. But something happened this weekend that made me have a flashback one of the YouTube videos that I have seen.
If you follow my blog then you know that I am participating in the 'Protect Ya Ends' Challenge. Well, on Saturday, I got up, went for a brisk walk, did some pilates, and decided to wash my hair. Mind you, it was 12:30 when I got into the shower and my nail appointment was at 2. After I got out of the shower it was 1:34 or so. I couldn't braid it up to put on a wig, so I was forced to slick it up into a bun. I grabbed my EcoStyler gel and went to work!
I tied it up while I drove to my appointment to meet my friend. Well, when I got there I still had the scarf on. After we chit-chatted for a while, she mentioned going to the mall to Tiffany's. Ok, fine. Now, this is where it got really real. My scarf slipped off and it she was like: We need to stop by Clair's to get you a head band or head wrap. *insert my screw face here*
It caught me completely off guard. I explained to her that I was in a challenge, which she was uninterested in, just how we would look going into Tiffany's together. We left and I looked in the mirror. There was nothing wrong with my hair. Yes, it lacked a part, or baby hairs, but it was slicked very nicely into a bun. Actually, my waves were poppin' at the top. There wasn't a hair out of place. I couldn't understand why she would say something like that. But then again, as I have said in other posts, there is no need to argue people just don't understand.
Sidebar: While in the mall, it seemed like every woman of color had natural hair! There were puffs and fro-hawks all over the place. Oh yeah, Tiffany's didn't have a problem giving excellent customer or taking credit cards from people with natural hair slicked up into buns.
If you follow my blog then you know that I am participating in the 'Protect Ya Ends' Challenge. Well, on Saturday, I got up, went for a brisk walk, did some pilates, and decided to wash my hair. Mind you, it was 12:30 when I got into the shower and my nail appointment was at 2. After I got out of the shower it was 1:34 or so. I couldn't braid it up to put on a wig, so I was forced to slick it up into a bun. I grabbed my EcoStyler gel and went to work!
I tied it up while I drove to my appointment to meet my friend. Well, when I got there I still had the scarf on. After we chit-chatted for a while, she mentioned going to the mall to Tiffany's. Ok, fine. Now, this is where it got really real. My scarf slipped off and it she was like: We need to stop by Clair's to get you a head band or head wrap. *insert my screw face here*
It caught me completely off guard. I explained to her that I was in a challenge, which she was uninterested in, just how we would look going into Tiffany's together. We left and I looked in the mirror. There was nothing wrong with my hair. Yes, it lacked a part, or baby hairs, but it was slicked very nicely into a bun. Actually, my waves were poppin' at the top. There wasn't a hair out of place. I couldn't understand why she would say something like that. But then again, as I have said in other posts, there is no need to argue people just don't understand.
Sidebar: While in the mall, it seemed like every woman of color had natural hair! There were puffs and fro-hawks all over the place. Oh yeah, Tiffany's didn't have a problem giving excellent customer or taking credit cards from people with natural hair slicked up into buns.
Friday, March 16, 2012
Real Quick: Nook
Real Quick: After 3 months of having it, I finally opened up my Nook. I must say that I love it! I was so anti-ereader and now I am a total fan of it. Also, I found out how to get free wi-fi...yup, I am one happy camper! Now if I could just get over these sinus issues and start back working out, I'll be good =)
Monday, March 12, 2012
New Music Monday!
I'm always on the lookout for new music from new artist. Well, while browsing a couple of YouTube videos, I kept hearing the same soulful voice. Then finally at the end of one of Chary Jay's video she said who it was. Mishal Moore. New neo-soul upcomer, with a soon to be release EP, I Am Not A Hipster.
Check out her website. Listen and watch on YouTube and Facebook.
Oh, I almost forgot! You can hear some of her music on Pandora! It'll be a nice surprise in your Neo-Soul Radio Spinner.
Check out her website. Listen and watch on YouTube and Facebook.
Oh, I almost forgot! You can hear some of her music on Pandora! It'll be a nice surprise in your Neo-Soul Radio Spinner.
Friday, March 9, 2012
Reboot!
Juicing. It has been on my mind every since I watch Toyaboo2 video's on her juicing challenges and another YouTuber. I am really thinking about doing the Reboot Long Weekend or possibly the 'Plus Dinner' Reboot.
Visit the Reboot website for more information: Join The Reboot
When I decide to do it, I will be sure to let you guys know! Also, be sure to check out the previous post with Fat, Sick & Nearly Dead movie. It was really eye opening.
Visit the Reboot website for more information: Join The Reboot
When I decide to do it, I will be sure to let you guys know! Also, be sure to check out the previous post with Fat, Sick & Nearly Dead movie. It was really eye opening.
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Weight Loss Update: Vol I
Hey! I haven't been updating ya'll on all of the challenges that I have been doing. The previous post was for the Protect Ya Ends Challenge. I will not lie, I will be so glad when its over. Just because I want to wear my hair out, get a good trim, try some new styles, but most importantly stop wigging it up.
Anywoo, I have been watching was I eat and working out 2-3 times a week until the weather breaks and I can start walking/jogging/running on a regular basis. Also, I started using calorie count and it has really making me conscious of what I eat, even though I cheat every now and again.
No pictures yet, just some figures:
As of 2/19/2012:
191.8lbs
Waist: 32
Hips: 47
Thighs: 28
I still think that my scale may be off. I placed it in the same place this morning on the bathroom floor and I even took it to the kitchen and it still said that same thing. I am proud of myself. I feel like I am lighter and making a difference in my weight loss. Also, I it looks like there was a couple of inches loss, as well. The last time that I weighed and measured myself, I was on my period, so that may have had something to do with it.
I believe that thing that has had a positive impact on my past 9 days was: not eating fast food, consistently drinking 8 glasses of water, limiting carbs after 7 pm.
Now, If I weigh myself next week, and it something completely different, then I will be buying a new scale so that I can be accurate.
On 2/26/2012:
190lbs with the same measurements.
Overall, I have loss about 10lbs. I had a fluctuation in my weight to 199 at one point when I weighed myself about 3 weeks ago.
Hopefully, I can continue to lose weigh and inches so that I can get my stripper booty back, lmbo (literally)!
Anywoo, I have been watching was I eat and working out 2-3 times a week until the weather breaks and I can start walking/jogging/running on a regular basis. Also, I started using calorie count and it has really making me conscious of what I eat, even though I cheat every now and again.
No pictures yet, just some figures:
As of 2/19/2012:
191.8lbs
Waist: 32
Hips: 47
Thighs: 28
I still think that my scale may be off. I placed it in the same place this morning on the bathroom floor and I even took it to the kitchen and it still said that same thing. I am proud of myself. I feel like I am lighter and making a difference in my weight loss. Also, I it looks like there was a couple of inches loss, as well. The last time that I weighed and measured myself, I was on my period, so that may have had something to do with it.
I believe that thing that has had a positive impact on my past 9 days was: not eating fast food, consistently drinking 8 glasses of water, limiting carbs after 7 pm.
Now, If I weigh myself next week, and it something completely different, then I will be buying a new scale so that I can be accurate.
On 2/26/2012:
190lbs with the same measurements.
Overall, I have loss about 10lbs. I had a fluctuation in my weight to 199 at one point when I weighed myself about 3 weeks ago.
Hopefully, I can continue to lose weigh and inches so that I can get my stripper booty back, lmbo (literally)!
Monday, March 5, 2012
Under the Weather...
One day, its 60 degrees. The next day its 3 inches of snow on the ground. Living in the last days, I tell ya...last days. So today, I am feeling waaaayyy under the weather! My throat is super sore, nose is slightly stuffed and I had a fever. One of the good things about me being sick is that I normally get over it pretty quickly. As I type this blog post, with a cholorspetic melting away in my mouth, I am starting to feel better. I sound like crap, but feel better. The one thing that I hate about being sick is that I cannot taste food, or drink water or alot of liquids because of my throat being sore. Also my bronchial cleft cyst starts acting up. For those of you that may not know, its a small hole located on your neck somewhere that drains or leaks. Or it can just get get infected and create a lump/cyst. The type that I have drains (yay!) so when I am sick, my neck is constantly seeping a clear liquid. Ewh. I know, but its kinda like my body way of getting rid of whatevers in there and not just letting it fester and cause more problems. One of the downsides of having this is when I am eating it also drains due to my using my neck muscles, so I have to wipe my mouth...and neck...sometimes. It's one of my perfect imperfections: Find out more here
Enough. Watching this Shelia E Unsung...oh wait, then David Ruffin's comes on...Lata!
Enough. Watching this Shelia E Unsung...oh wait, then David Ruffin's comes on...Lata!
Product Review: ORS Edge Control
Alright, so keeping with my Protect Ya Ends Challenge, I have been wearing alot of wigs. I recently brought a half wig (throwback) called Keya from Blackhairspray.com. Now, as many of you may know that I am transistioning and trying to stay away from heat, so in order for me to get this half wig to look right, I had to slick my edges down. Anyone who has natural hair, knows that any water based gel will make you hair revert back to its natural state. Meaning, that your hair/edges will be nappy. I did a little bit of research and came up with the ORS Edge Control. I thought that it would be a better choice than my normal QP Glaze.
Now, to be fair, I flat ironed my hair lightly so that it wouldn't be as bad and it would blend better since this hair is basically curly straight hair. I put the front portion of my hair in bantu knots over night. Wait, before I go on, I did wear my hair out one day (The PYE challenge gives you two free passes). So, I had a lunch date I was prepared just incase it didn't work out. The bantu knots were prefect for blending with the half wig. I applied the ORS Edge Control.....nothing. Yes, nothing. It made no difference in slicking down my hair or edges for that matter. I feel like I could have gotten the same thing, maybe better from QP Glaze. It actually didn't spread as well, since its a thicker formula. It left, as some of the reviews that I have heard people say, a grey like sheen to the hair.
Here is a picture of the finish look. (Note: I had to cut the wig to get desired look)
Pros & Cons:
Pros: Thick formula, which may work for some peoples hair. Smells good.
Cons: Leaves a residue/ grey sheen. Same hold as any other gel.
I am going to give it a try on wet hair, maybe slicking it up into a bun and see how it does.
Now, to be fair, I flat ironed my hair lightly so that it wouldn't be as bad and it would blend better since this hair is basically curly straight hair. I put the front portion of my hair in bantu knots over night. Wait, before I go on, I did wear my hair out one day (The PYE challenge gives you two free passes). So, I had a lunch date I was prepared just incase it didn't work out. The bantu knots were prefect for blending with the half wig. I applied the ORS Edge Control.....nothing. Yes, nothing. It made no difference in slicking down my hair or edges for that matter. I feel like I could have gotten the same thing, maybe better from QP Glaze. It actually didn't spread as well, since its a thicker formula. It left, as some of the reviews that I have heard people say, a grey like sheen to the hair.
Here is a picture of the finish look. (Note: I had to cut the wig to get desired look)
Pros: Thick formula, which may work for some peoples hair. Smells good.
Cons: Leaves a residue/ grey sheen. Same hold as any other gel.
I am going to give it a try on wet hair, maybe slicking it up into a bun and see how it does.
Sunday, March 4, 2012
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