Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Monday, November 2, 2009
Hello November
I'm back again with fresh cornrows. I like this hairstyle especially the blue. I'm stepping out in some bold colors with my hair. It's a protective style that I absolutely love and I don't have to do anything at all to my hair besides wrap it in a scarf at night and use a light oil occasionally to prevent dryness. I am going to wear this style until about the 15th and then I am going to get a different color and style for the latter half of the month. I am going to be working out everyday this month. So I want to make sure that my hair and scalp are cleansed and conditioned. I am going to take a break from the braids sometime in December to allow my hair to rest. Just make sure if you do decide to get braids that they are NOT too tight. Taunt is ok, you do want the hold. But if you get out the salon and feel like you got a face-lift. Um, you might want to get them taken out, that is entirely too tight. Don't add that type of stress to your hair. I hope that everything is going well with everyone. I'll be back soon. I've been pretty busy lately but I haven't forgot about y'all.
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 1:55 PM 0 comments
A GREAT Hair Day
I made a YT video on what happened to the extensions that I had in at the beginning of October. That was a VERY short-lived hairstyle. The combination of the braids and the sew-in was too much stress on my hair. I couldn't take it. Anyway, moving along after everything was taken down, I decided to wear my hair in a puff. There is no telling how long I could've been wearing a puff because this was the first time that I actually tried it. OK......Let me tell you.....I thought that I was TOO cute!! I'm dead serious. I took so many pictures and smile from ear to ear the few days that I did wear my hair in a puff. To be honest, I don't even know why I was acting like this because I should be proud everyday of my hair. Something got into me that day. But, it's a milestone for me because I would see other women with their hair in puffs and anticipated the day that I would be able to have myself a puff! So there is it! *big grin*
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 1:45 PM 0 comments
Monday, October 12, 2009
Greetings! Yeah, I know it seems like it has been forever since I have written my last post. I have had a lot going on. Seriously. So I will rewind it back. If you follow my YT channel I posted a vid that sums up what has been going on. Anyway, September 15, I got a new puppy! His name is Dino. He’s a maltipoo. I’ve spent the last few weeks getting him house-trained. He is doing extremely well. He’s a sweetheart. I’m really happy that I got him!
Ok, Sunday the 13th, one of my best friends called and asked if I would cut her hair for her. Big Cut. Yes. I couldn’t believe it either. I knew that she was transistioning but I didn’t know that she would be ready for the cut! Normally I wouldn’t make a big deal of a hair cut (because I am a stylist), but to have the honor to be able to BC for someone is amazing. Especially since I have already experienced the big cut myself.
It’s important to share your experience with others. I say this because you may not think that you have a voice, but you do. It’s amazing the feedback, e-mails, and questions that I get from ladies about my hair. I really encourage you to share your story with the world. You never know who is listening to you!
I also started working at a salon. Whew. I know. Told you I’ve had a lot going on. You already know. I get asked questions there as well about my hair. It’s ok. I’m always open for questions because I find myself enlightening ladies on what they think is “impossible.” No worries. I will be back on here again soon to share more stories!
One last thing, my style for October? Is extensions. Thought that I would do something bright and colorful. Bright Pink & Dark Brown. All of my hair is braided. I am going to try to rock this style until the end of the month. My hair wasn’t blow-dried or damaged. (well, maybe a little from the braids) But I like this style and I may keep my hair hidden for the winter instead of doing twists. I will give myself a few weeks for my hair to “breathe” in flat twists. I hope all is going well with everyone! Thank you for taking the time to read what I had to say & I will be back soon!
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 10:21 AM 0 comments
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Winter Blues
It’s about that time again. Winter time that is. I’m not too excited to be honest with you. But anyway, I was asked a few days ago if I was going to switch up my routine. Probably not. I do know that throughout the winter I will likely keep my hair flat twisted like in the picture. I know. I am getting kinda lazy when it comes to my hair (I knew that once my hair got long enough.....it was a matter of time). I really like this style because it only takes me about 20 minutes total to do. I’m looking forward to the buns that I twist in the back to become fuller. This is a neat very protective style (especially for the ends) and I will rock this style all winter. I will be sure to deep condition my hair once every 2 weeks to make certain that my thirsty strands are moisturized. My challenge for the month is to keep my hair flat twisted for the entire month of September. I will allow myself 3 days to wear my hair “out.” Are any of you doing anything different for the winter? Or recommend anything?
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 10:41 PM 0 comments
Labels: deep conditioning, flat twists, winter blues
Thursday, August 27, 2009
I Am A Queen
If you expect me to walk through life like this...... Get REAL. I've gotten a few e-mails about the video that I posted. Why get mad? I took time to explain to these gentlemen about the process involved with relaxers and why I chose to go natural. Should you have a conversation like this with someone, please don't get angered at someone that doesn't know. Introduce these men to your story on why you are going natural and allow them the chance to gain insight on the situation. Guess what, they are still thinking about everything we talked about. I'm taking everything I learned to have a different approach to men about hair. Educate and inform.
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 3:05 PM 0 comments
Random Conversation
Yesterday I had the privilege of being able to ask my childhood best friend and his roommates how they each felt about MY hair. I've been missing because I have been working on my YouTube channel. Of the three, two concluded that they did NOT like my hair at all.
This is part of my response.Can I be upset at them for stating their opinions? No, but I will say that words hurt. I'm glad that we all were able to have this conversation. Can we blame society? Partially. The reason that I say this is because if you are an adult and live in the US, we have freedoms. The first being able to express ourselves freely without being JUDGED. SLAVERY mindset still exists even today. Read "Hair Story: Untangling the Roots of Black Hair in America" if you haven't already.
I agree that it is hard to appreciate something that you are not accustomed to. Christopher stated that "I need to see more women with natural hair". True, if more women would wear their hair natural, I do believe that black men would appreciate our hair. LACK of EDUCATION is to blame as well. When you grow up and you are taught at an early age that your hair is "bad", it is no wonder that there is hesitancy when you do decide to go natural. I’m not being disrespectful to our ancestors BUT what has been taught has been passed down for generations and that is all that we KNOW. WE have the ability to accept changes within our own lives. EDUCATION and KNOWLEDGE is the leader of progression. Hard to do that without either.
I’m not trying to make excuses or place blame on anyone or anything. There are many factors and this will be a debate that will probably continue on this Earth even after I’m long gone.
I want change. It begins with me. When I have children, I want to pass my values and beliefs to them. My girls are going to be natural until they are old enough to make a decision about their hair. But as children, I will nurture and care for their hair. As they age, they will realize that others may be different but I believe that change begins with ME.
I’m not going to say that these guys didn’t learn from this conversation and you do have to keep in mind that this was amongst 4 people. This is just ONE perspective of many and I had the opportunity to be able to record and publish this. They understand about HEALTH risks, COSTS, and INCONVENIENCE of relaxers. But they have a new insight on women and what WE as African Americans go through to keep our hair up.
I’m hoping that Chris Rocks movie “Good Hair” is educational and informative. All three earned themselves a ticket to see this movie. I’ve recommended a few books to them as well. But everyone has their preferences and opinions. I RESPECT that.
I love my hair. Any male that I am involved with IS and WILL appreciate my hair and ME for who I am. Nothing like a man that loves, adores, and cherishes his QUEEN.
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 1:40 PM 1 comments
Labels: Men and natural hair
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
One Year Relaxer Free
Hello everyone! I know it seems like forever since I have signed on. It’s been 1 year to date on August 10, since my last relaxer. I would’ve never thought in a million years that I would be where I am at today. It’s not all about the hair. It’s about discovering yourself as an individual. I’ve taken this experience to step outside of my “comfort” zone and have challenged myself to be a better person everyday. Physically, emotionally and spiritually. I would like for my life walk to be of many experiences and challenges. Those of which that I am able to share and perhaps enlighten and inspire others. The past year has been great!
I will share with you some things that I have learned specifically about hair.
- Everyone’s hair is different. We may have similar textured hair, but my routine/products I use may not work for you hair
- I try not to get caught up in the hair typing systems. Imo, it’s just another degree of separation within our already divided community.
- Embrace your natural texture and have fun with your hair! I’ve never had so much fun creating different hairstyles every week!
- I have the cannot keep my hands out of my hair syndrome. That’s why 99% of the time, I’m all twisted up.
- I am not a product junkie. Or at least I don’t think that I am. I try something, don’t like it, give it away. fortunately for me, I was able to find a great product line without going broke first. But for me all I need is a Shampoo bar, Deep Conditioner, and some Hair Milk. Simplified. Nothing else that’s it! How do I dry my hair you ask? Precious sun rays and air.
- I have the best hair on the planet. No one can tell me otherwise.
- My hair has a personality of its own! Yep Kinks, Coils, Curls, Twirls, mixed with a lot of funky fun! I ♥ my hair!!!
- I take care of my hair as if it is a delicate flower. Each bend of every curl in my precious crown needs to be handled delicately.
- Patience. From my hair cut to the growth that I have attained I’ve found myself to be more patient with everything in life. Not just my hair. Everything always works itself out I don’t stress or worry. Just breath.
- Strength. My hair is a firm representation of this word and an avid description of myself as an individual. I seek strength everyday.
Thought I’d share that with you all. Oh, I know that I am late on this style of the week. I was in I ♥ Atlanta last week and was in the pool!! But this style will use the same tools as in previous posts. Part your hair into a section on the side. Make parts for your flat twists but try to make them at an angle. The remaining hair will be individually twisted. This style didn’t last long either (pool again) and the resulting twistout is what you see above! Hope you all have a wonderful & blessed week!! Until next time...
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 7:48 PM 2 comments
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Style of the Week
This week I decided to keep it simple. You are going to need the same tools. A rat tail comb, bobby pins, hair milk, and metal clips. Make parts going all the way back to the nape and flat twist going back. Use hair milk through each section or put some through all of your hair to save yourself some time. Try to make your parts as neat as possible, if you have a hand mirror this would be helpful. Once you are finished take the ends of the twists and twist them into a bun. I made two buns. For those of you that don't have enough hair to do this style, you can make 2 parts on the side and make yourself a twisted headband. Really cute style! This was a signature style for me after I got my haircut! Have a great week! Until next time.....
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 10:36 PM 0 comments
Labels: flat twists, style of the week
Monday, August 3, 2009
My Reflection
Monday, August 3, 2009
Today’s date is not that important. But today is. I’m just walking down memory lane as I look back to this time last year when I was beyond frustrated with my hair. I’ll go into a few more details on why I chose this journey. To begin, the area of the state that I was in required an hour drive to find anyone that was able to relax my hair. That wasn’t really an issue since I have a car. But, my problem wasn’t once but twice when I made that drive to only be disappointed. The first time I had an early morning appointment that the stylist was not only late for, but she wasn’t even finished with my hair and it was going on 4 in the afternoon! So I ended up leaving with my hair undone and she didn’t get paid either. The second time (sigh) this happened consecutively, I made an appointment and she didn’t even have the product to provide a relaxer service. So......
At this point I looked in the mirror. Hurt by the fact that I can no longer get my hair relaxed without making that long journey home (3 hours) I began to just wait it out. After all, I’m not incompetent when it comes to styling. So for the next 3 months, I just braided the sides of my hair, wore buns, blow dried my out straight, flat ironed, curled, and anything in between.
I remembered one morning during this time period that I looked in the mirror and began to cry. The reason? The reflection that I saw wasn’t of me. I bombarded myself with questions of why was I going through this frustration with my hair? What do I REALLY look like? This was the part that hurt the most. I had NO clue what my natural hair texture looked or felt like since we haven’t met since my childhood. Mentally I made a decision then and there that I was not going to continue to get my hair straightened because I was ASHAMED. To not know what I really look like? LaToya are you serious? Yes, part of me was missing. I never shared my experience or thoughts with anyone during that time because it is a VERY personal experience. I’m sharing now because it is what I was going through at that particular time.
Then I decided to do some research. YouTube, fotki, any and everywhere I could find pictures, listen to someone else’s experience, information on hair products, and the list continues. I frequent Atlanta and was able to go to Urbanbella in Buckhead. The ladies there were very friendly and helpful with helping me select products for my hair. I purchased a few items, but I was AMAZED at the beauty in each crown of these beautiful ladies!! Wow, is this what I have to look forward to? I certainly hope so!
November was the last month of my frustration. I say this because as you should be already aware is that natural & relaxed hair do NOT get along at all. So, I was experiencing a lot of breakage. It also didn’t help that I was using a lot of heat to try to keep it straightened. So on November 21, 2008, I quietly snuck into the chair of an barber and asked him to cut all of my hair. No tears, no sadness, nothing.
I looked in the mirror afterwards and stared. No, my cut is fine. I’m fine. I’m looking at myself because I cannot believe that this is ME. I don’t have much hair but I love the little bit of hair that I do have. I had So many thoughts going through my mind that I cannot even explain.
I get back home, lay down to relax, and think. No more worries about my hair. I purchased headbands. For what? No clue because I didn’t have enough hair to push back. But I’m at ease because I shampoo my hair almost everyday. No worries about how to style it. Air dry. What blow dryer? Nope. Simple. Showers are a lot more fun! Rain showers too!
Too bad you all couldn’t see the looks on my all of my co-workers face! I wish I had a camera to capture that moment because when I went it to work the entire place FROZE literally because everyone was so shocked, all over my haircut.
I’m saying all of this because August 10, 2008 was my last relaxer. So it’s almost a year. Just thought I’d take a walk down memory lane.
Now when I look in the mirror, the reflection I see, I smile, because I know it’s of ME!!!!!
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 7:04 AM 0 comments
Friday, July 31, 2009
Style of the Week
This week's style is called "twisted up". Ok, I make up names as I go along, feel free to change it up! Tools needed: a rattail comb, metal clips, hair milk, and a headband (optional). What I did for this hairstyle is made a part from ear to ear. Use clips to separate the hair. Then make zig zag, curved parts to the middle and twist going back. Continue until you have completed the front. For the back I made sections and made individual twists. Easy hairstyle. You are welcome to use the headband as an accessory. Viola! You're finished! Enjoy your week! I'll be back again next week! Until then....
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 1:31 PM 0 comments
Labels: July, style of the week, twists
MacBook Pro
Greetings! I write to you today from my new notebook! About time right? I've moved on. I am not going to lie, I love my new notebook! It's very functional and sexxxy!!! I got it Monday and have played around on it for the past several days. It gets the job done. Very different from Windows. I'll make the analogy of being right handed and having to write with my left hand. It is going to be a learning experience but I am going to be patient in learning the mac os. I DO love the fact that with AppleCare, should I have any technical issues, problems, etc that Apple is going to take care of my notebook. There is a wealth of information and forums to answer many questions that I have as I navigate through mac. So, I'm probably going to have a few changes until I'm familiar with the software (i.e. collages in iPhoto to publish to my blog). It's going to take some time, but look forward to a few changes! I'm excited! Until next time....
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 12:52 PM 0 comments
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Style of the Week
To maintain this style, sleep in a satin or silk scarf and if necessary use a little hair milk to moisturize your hair.
I've gotten quite a few compliments on this hairstyle. I like it. One person told me that I switch styles all the time. I told the person "Thanks" and kept it moving.
Didn't cost me anything but a few hours of my time. Another reason to go natural. Do it yourself. Practice. I'm not paying for what I can do myself. Plus, I do my hair at my convenience. Not someone elses. Stay tuned! I'll post another style next week! Until then....
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 11:56 AM 0 comments
Labels: style of the week
Karen's Body Beautiful
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 11:10 AM 0 comments
Monday, July 13, 2009
Bad Business
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 7:52 PM 0 comments
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Summer Nails!
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 5:00 PM 1 comments
Saturday, June 27, 2009
AT&T USBConnect Card
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 5:52 PM 0 comments
Labels: ATTConnect Mercury Card
Friday, June 26, 2009
Being Vegan 1st Month
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 4:27 PM 0 comments
Today :)
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 11:48 AM 1 comments
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Random
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 9:01 PM 0 comments
Monday, June 8, 2009
Fast Conclusion
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 10:21 PM 0 comments
Sunday, June 7, 2009
June Bookshelf
Next, I'm ordering "Dying For Revenge" by Eric J. Dickey http://good.ly/auii63 . This book is part 3 of a trilogy. So if you haven't read the first 2 books "Sleeping with Strangers" and "Waking with Enemies", start with those! Both books are page turners and will not leave you disappointed! I was able to get both books with free shipping for $29.94. I should have both books in a few days!
I'm still reading "The Audacity of Hope" by Barack Obama.
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 11:25 AM 0 comments
Labels: bookshelf
Friday, June 5, 2009
Happy Friday!!
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 8:19 PM 0 comments
Labels: Birthday, Honeywash, Juices and Berries, Vegan
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
June Challenges
I'm on Day 2 of my fast. I feel marvelous!! I researched some places around town for a massage, I felt that would be a deserving treat for my birthday and I ended up booking a massage today!! I'm totally relaxed. I may continue my fast for a few extra days. Just make sure you drink plenty of water. Everyone has their reasons for fasting. I just felt that this was something that I needed to do for myself.
Also, Friday, I am expecting some more goodies for my hair! I'm going to try the HoneyWash as a shampoo, as well as trying the J&B refresher. I've only used Greg Juice, so I will give you my experience with these products. Another challenge I have for myself is to keep my hair twisted the entire month of June & July. I'm so tired of knots, I could scream. I'm doing it for protection. So I'll shampoo once a week and retwist. I'll be sure to take a picture Friday and then a comparison shot at the end of the summer! I hope you have a great night! I'll be back Friday.
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 11:37 PM 0 comments
Labels: fast, June twists
Finished "Maneater"
I finished the book last night. "Maneater" I must say is a book that will have you on edge of your seat, sofa, or couch the entire time! You will not want to put it down! You can definitely tell that the writing styles of the authors are completely different! Her style was straight street. Both authors relayed their points in their stories while leaving many unanswered questions. That's why I enjoy reading books. I'm not going to spoil it for you but Noire's half of the book was CRAZY!! You are going to read it and have a few giggles. I know I did! Only because you KNOW that something is about to go down. The ending is a trip though. Her story will make you think about how you treat your true friends. "You reap what you sow" just remember that when you are reading her half of the book. Crazy! Plus, it gives you some insight of the things that go on within guys relationships with their friends. The conversations that these guys had in this book, I could really hear going on somewhere on this Earth. I cannot say too much without ruining the suspense and drama so you have to make judgement to get the book or not, but it will make great discussion!! Where are my readers at?! What are your thoughts of the book?
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 11:27 PM 0 comments
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Happy June :)
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 5:26 PM 0 comments
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Summer Flowers
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 10:16 PM 0 comments
Fotki Updated! :)
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 6:02 PM 0 comments
Saturday, May 30, 2009
LaToya's Bookshelf
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 11:48 PM 0 comments
Diet
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 11:11 PM 0 comments
Labels: diet, exercise, spinach juice
May 2009 (Month 6)
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 10:34 PM 1 comments
April 2009 (Month 5)
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 10:17 PM 0 comments
March 2009 (Month 4)
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 10:02 PM 0 comments
Feb 2009 (Month 3)
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 9:37 PM 0 comments
January 2009 (Month 2)
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 9:10 PM 0 comments
Cut
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 8:54 PM 0 comments
Transistion
Here are a few pictures during the short amount of time (3mos) that I did "transistion". I kept it simple. I usually did a braid out and when I got tired of that I did get creative and braided the sides and did a 2 strand flat twist going down the middle and coming up from the back. :)
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 8:51 PM 0 comments
Labels: Transistion pix
Good Afternoon!!
Posted by ~LaToya~ at 6:53 PM 0 comments
Labels: 01 Hair