tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-42112705447772921522024-02-19T08:12:49.980+02:00The Random PhoenixPhoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02592618054090025991noreply@blogger.comBlogger177125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4211270544777292152.post-76495465967692138662016-04-29T08:48:00.000+01:002016-04-29T08:48:14.372+01:00Update...and explaining the silenceHey there everyone<br />
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I know I've been absent. Life has a way of flipping everything upside down and the first thing to suffer was this blog. As most of you will remember, I went through a very bad patch last year regarding my hair journey. Breaking, shedding, generally misbehaving. I lost so much length, from basically APL to a bob barely touching my shoulders. And for the longest I couldn't figure out what I was doing wrong. I felt like I was doing all the right things. Prepoo, deep condition, leave ins, rollersets, stretching my relaxers for months, protective styling, the works. But my hair was not having it. BALLS of hair every wash day. Day 2 hair looking a right mess every time. Moisture not staying where it should. I grew despondent and angry.<br />
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It messed with my head and mentally I ended up in a not too good space. And ON TOP OF IT, all of my favourite bloggers went natural. Now ladies, I admire the hell out of you and your hair looks GREAT. It's just that now as a relaxed girl I don't relate as well any more. So it also started to seem like my well of advice and tips was drying up. And for a while there it made me feel even worse.<br />
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Then in December I decided enough is enough. I had a frank discussion with myself. You see, at the time I was practically 8 months post and have been toying with the idea of going natural myself. but my new growth was driving me insane! I'm talking bat shit crazy! Trying to handle it was a mission. I swear, my social life suffered. And social animal that I am, that did not bode well for my psyche. My health suffered as I stopped going to the gym because I didn't want to deal with the mop on my head after a workout. Everything went down hill.<br />
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So, I became honest with myself - I am not ready in any way or form to go natural. I'm not even ready to deal with a lot of new growth between relaxers! When I started this journey I started stretching my relaxers to a maximum of 14 weeks. Considering that before this journey I promptly relaxed at 8 weeks, it made a difference. My hair flourished. So, logic dictated that the longer I stretched, the less chemicals touch my hair and the longer my hair will grow. My hair debunked this premise. So, in early December I relaxed my hair and vowed to never wait longer than 14 weeks again, which led to my Easter touch up, which makes me a solid 4 weeks post this week. My next touch up is preliminary scheduled for the weekend of 25 June, but these days if I personally feel DONE I will schedule the touch up. Struggling makes me impatience and impatience is part and partial to breakage and general lack of luster. I will listen to myself and my hair and my gut from now on.<br />
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I've simplified my regimen and went back to basics. I have a wash day once to twice a week. I prepoo using cheapie conditioners enhanced with coconut oil. I've scrapped castor oil from my regimen as my scalp basically becomes inflamed it's so irritated and itchy. It works wonders for some ladies, like my best friend, who I gifted all my left over castor oils, but it created the itchy and scratchy show on my head.<br />
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My staple conditioners are Aussie 3 min Moist and Herbal Essence Hello Hydration. My hair likes it. I just have to start planning for when they run out as a friend of mine brought my current stash from the States when he came to come and visit. I don't jump between conditioners and products anymore, consistency is key here.<br />
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My staple deep conditioners are once again ORS Replenishing and ORS HAIRepair Nourishing Conditioners. They are oldies but goodies. They worked awesomely in 2012/2013, they'll work awesomely again. I DC at least once a week for a minimum of 45 minutes.<br />
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I roller set. And I'm not talking trying cute fancy styles with perm rods and flexi rods and what not. I'm talk big ass rollers to stretch my hair, have a quick heatless drying time and have smooth hair which I then pin up or in a bun or a french braid without having to use any heat whatsoever. No heat worked in the beginning, it'll just have to work again now.<br />
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There has been progress. I'm officially still shoulder length but it looks like I might reach collarbone length in a few weeks. I don't get angry at my hair any more. I don't have to try to beat it into submission. I even made peace with my big ass forehead - sometimes with working and gymming and trying to have a social life the cute fringe/bangs simply have to be pinned back otherwise it looks a mess.<br />
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Speaking of gymming, my biokiniticist and I are on a mission! My best friend is getting married this year and I have been honored to be her Maid of Honour. Which of course entails not only being her right hand man but also getting my butt in shape. I refuse to stand before God and society in a lovely dress looking like a lump. So for the past month I've been getting back into my routine with regards to my weight loss journey as well. I work out a minimum of 3 days a week for about an hour to an hour and half, depending on my biokineticist's mood. We mix cardio, own body weight resistance training, HIIT and weight training. So far, so good.<br />
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My eating plan is Banting based aka low carb, medium protein, high fat. Paleo is similar, as is Atkins. I love it. I barely miss the carbs and I can freely have bacon! Due to having a nice solid breakfast, I rarely eat lunch, as I'm simply not hungry. And dinner is usually a small protein based affair before 7:30 pm. When I started my journey last year I weighed in at 94 kg (207 pounds). Yeah, horrible, disgusting, UNHEALTHY. I did a quick weigh in yesterday, and the scale went to stand on 79.8 kg (175 pounds). Not even close to where I want to be, but SO much closer than I ever was before. So I push through and say no thank you to bread, burgers, cakes, pasta and potatoes. And it's getting easier by the day.<br />
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so, to end off, a quick rundown on my washing experience last night and this morning. I shampooed with an Argan oil shampoo, then instant conditioned and detangled using Herbal Essence Hello hydration. I love that conditioner so much, the amount of slip is heaven. I then DC'd overnight using the Hask Macadamia Oil Conditioner.<br />
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And I'm never going to use it again! It clumped my strands together so much that this morning I actually had to use a little bit of shampoo and a lot of Hello Hydration all over again for my hair to be manageable and malleable.<br />
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I then added my leave ins of MorrocanOil Serum, Bone Strait and Aphogee Keratin & Green Tea Restructurizer and proceeded to roller set. I used my hair dryer to dry my hair in the rollers and then I decided to straighten it as it would be the first time in a few weeks and I needed an indication of what my hair is doing. I am after all preparing my entire body from head to toe for the wedding of the year, lol. One quick pass with the iron and I was out the door.<br />
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Not too shabby but I am definitely due for a mini trim, those ends look a tad raggedy. also, a pop of colour is definitely needed. Looking a bit mousy at the moment. We have a few public holidays next week so it's definitely on the agenda for one of those lazy off days.<br />
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So, there you guys have it. I promise to be more vigilant on the blog from hereon out, it actually keeps me vigilant towards my journey as well.<br />
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I wish everyone a fantastic weekend, and to the Namibians, a great LONG weekend<br />
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Till next time!<br />
<br />Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02592618054090025991noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4211270544777292152.post-62029845881423480552015-06-18T12:57:00.001+01:002015-06-18T12:57:19.217+01:00Do guys care for their beards?The subject matter is a genuine query, because I really want to know.<br />
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The whole "lumbersexual" look is really hot right now. Everywhere you look you see men in lush beards, and on a lot of them, yep, it looks HOT. I mean, just look at the fine specimens below. (Fanning myself...)<br />
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I have two friends with very lush beards, as in, their beards contain SO MUCH more hair than what is on top of their heads. And it seems like they both are of the opinion that their mojo lies in their beards. Anyhoo, I've never actually asked them myself, but I will. In the meantime, out there in the whole wide world internet, I was wondering if any of y'all know if:<br />
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<li>guys shampoo and condition their beards like girls take care of their hair?</li>
<li>they trim their beards without losing volume and lush the way women trim and dust theirs?</li>
<li>they use leave in products or if they're just wild men? </li>
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If there are any gents out there sporting a lush beard, kindly inform us. If there are any ladies out there whose significant other sports a lush beard, drag some answers out of them, lol. </div>
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Anyhoo, that's my curious question for the week. </div>
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Have a good one y'all!!!!</div>
Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02592618054090025991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4211270544777292152.post-54636818655431932015-06-18T12:43:00.002+01:002015-06-18T12:43:17.891+01:00Getting it under control, finally!!!Hey there y'all<br />
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So, as y'all know, I have been struggling with excess breakage and shedding for a few months now, to the point that wash days nearly drove me to tears and which also led to long pauses in between blogging due to feeling despondent. But I had a #washdayexperience last night/this morning that makes me wanna throw confetti! I apologise for the lack of pics, life is a little rushed at the moment, but here's a quick recap.<br />
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<a href="http://www.savingourstrands.com/" title="The Wash Day Experience"><img alt="The Wash Day Experience" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNe0hX59vI8hgm1upT2jSyMFAr_gmRDMTpFP1xAmjTCgZ1FcUtgmgu-jNGV-GC39I61yWs2g9rLhGFB7HyJrwLo-GuQq1t6tqeqXDl4cipej0vC6DAEocJzkSybFf8dtTsXMJWO_c6bos/s1600/The+%23washdayexperience+badge.png" style="border: none;" /></a></div>
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Overnight prepoo with OGX Moroccan Argan Oil conditioner. Not a great conditioner in general (for me) but an excellent prepoo. Used it as is straight from the bottle, sectioning my hair and twisting the sections after application to prevent tangles. Still some breakage, especially considering that my hair was sweaty and a bit matted from gyming and that fact that it has been about 3 days since a comb saw my head, but it was less than ever considering the past 6 months.<br />
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Shampoo with my Avon Supreme Oils Shampoo, lathering up twice and rinsing properly till my hair felt super clean, but still super soft.<br />
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Detangling and instant conditioning with Mane and Tail Deep Moisturising Conditioner. I freaking love this stuff!! So much slip, my fingers just glided through, it MELTS knots away.<br />
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Fast DC with ORS HAIRepair Nourishing Conditioner. I love this stuff! The banana scent is heavenly, but my favourite aspect is the slip and how it SINKS into my hair, like absolutely sinks in. I covered my whole head then put on a shower cap to let the DC work its magic for at least 5 min whilst I took a real shower. When I rinsed it off - BUTTER!<br />
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I then proceeded to apply my leave ins of Cantu Shea Butter strengthening treatment and MoroccanOil Treatment serum and then rollerset. Considering that I'm doing this before work I then started blowdrying my hair whilst in the rollers on medium heat. Once dry I just blast it with some cool air to close the cuticles and then when I took out the rollers I simply combed my hair into a ponytail and out the door I went.<br />
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During the ENTIRE process I lost so little hair that if I actually took the time I would have been able to count them and tell how many are were shed and how many were broken. It has not been like that in I think about a YEAR! Even though the hairloss has reduced slowly but steadily, up and till this morning it has still been a BALL of hair every wash day. I am so freaking happy!!! I have got my balance right, finally! And now I just need to stick to it.<br />
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Also, I've learned again that consistency is KEY. For the past couple of wash days my prepoo, shampoo, detangling conditioner and leave in conditioner have all remained the same. The OGX is almost finished, but I don't think it will kill my hair when I switch to another prepoo (which will probably be something drenched with coconut oil, as I know that works fabulously as well) since I think that I will continue doing this overnight prepoo thing - it's awesome!!!<br />
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Anyhoo, I am off to Johannesburg, South Africa for the weekend to visit a friend and to go see One Republic live in concert. Anybody else got any travel plans?<br />
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Have an awesome Thursday and a great weekend, whenever yours start.Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02592618054090025991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4211270544777292152.post-6850234068660148912015-06-08T12:54:00.001+01:002015-06-08T12:54:27.876+01:00Keep it simple stupid and know what needs to be doneHey there everybody<br />
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So I have a massive week ahead of me due to the fact that I'm back in the office after a week of the flu, so I am just going to give you a quick fast update on my wash day this past weekend and stuff I noticed.<br />
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So, I prepoo's with OGX Moroccan Argan Oil conditioner, separating my hair in about 4-6 sections, finger detangling and applying the conditioner and then twisting it up. Covered my hair with a showercap and a head towel and then got my flu ridden body back between the covers and binge watching Spartacus. Now, I must say, that this conditioner does not have the greatest slip and it's not great for me when used as a normal conditioner but my hair LOVES it as a prepoo.<br />
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After about an hour and half (aka two episodes of Spartacus) I got to the shower and started actually washing my hair. My hair was buttery soft as I washed out the prepoo. I then shampooed with my trusty Avon Advanced Techniques Supreme Oils shampoo, which is also great. My hair and scalp feels clean without feeling stripped at all. It also lathers like a mofo from just a little bit of product aka value for money. a little goes a long way.<br />
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I instant conditioned with one of my London pick-ups (which I am so happy to report, I found a stockist for right here in Windhoek!!!!! and I LOVE this conditioner - Deep Moisturizing Main and Tale conditioner. The first time I used it it was a bit weird because it's this sickly blue colour that one associates with industrial cleansers. But it's magical on knots!! And man! Have I been struggling with single strand knots - they are the bane of my existence! The scent is very light and it melts into my strands, so in shower finger detangling is a dream. This is DEFINITELY going to become a staple!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC98IoSlqgmDOkb51lRLxe5wz81KBQJx77KCBN16MnTJrlmAgD2WxA-c-DhaWFWlIq7u1OXjGJeFO-afH7ZZvNV1A2WMOu85_j7IbUnSYr3Cwvpb49S12jynhzhtGDtkYqRloqoA2rD5A/s1600/main+and+tale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC98IoSlqgmDOkb51lRLxe5wz81KBQJx77KCBN16MnTJrlmAgD2WxA-c-DhaWFWlIq7u1OXjGJeFO-afH7ZZvNV1A2WMOu85_j7IbUnSYr3Cwvpb49S12jynhzhtGDtkYqRloqoA2rD5A/s320/main+and+tale.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I then proceeded to deep condition with an old trusted favourite - ORS Replenishing Conditioner. Because I am such a sucker for trying out anything new I have left this oldy but a goody on the back burner. And I really should not have. I really love this DC. I applied it to lightly terry cloth dried hair and then again covered it with the cap and head towel and continued watching Spartacus, also a good 2 episodes worth.<br />
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After rinsing I said to myself - Robyn, just because you have a plethora of new products that you want to try and test, DO NOT let this one go! My hair felt SO strong, yet soft. </div>
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I then let my hair air dry a bit whilst getting dressed and what not and then applied my leave-ins of Cantu Shea Butter Leave in and OGX Coconut Milk Serum. </div>
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I then proceeded to roller set and had my hair air dry in the rollers. The Coconut Serum has a slight sticky quality to it, but my hair is soft as silk when dry, so I simply make sure to not use a lot. I have had that bottle for a good 4 months now, it's not even half yet. The Cantu Leave-in is going to last me forever, I swear. I have been using it consistently for about 6-8 washes now and every time I open the jar one would swear that it has never been used. A little truly goes a LONG way.<br />
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We had a girl's night planned so I wanted to do something a little different, and since I've been wearing my hair curly for the last few weeks I decided to go straight, ram rod straight. I have this infra-red straightener which imparts such a shine and gloss with a single pass. Because I'm only a few weeks post the straightening sessions went fast AND confirmed to me that my ends are in the best condition in months!!! Trimming really is beneficial people! Unfortunately I don't have a decent pic showing what I did - I sweeped up the left side of my hair and pinned it up so that it LOOKED like I had sheared off the hair on that side and left the right side loose and hanging over my shoulder. I then added a cuff earring to make the look a bit more badass and then off we went!<br />
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So stuff I noticed - my hair likes it when I give it a shot of protein every wash day. Not HARD protein every wash day, that would be stupid. But a shot of it nonetheless. I'm getting better with finger detangling and minimizing manipulation. My hair likes being straight but protected. Today I'm wearing a high pony held with a scrunchie (yes, a scrunchie!) my ends out of the way of my scraf and coat collar. The keeping it straight is to help make sure the single strand knots are kept at bay. Also, it's just easier to keep a comb out of my hair when it's straight because then fingers suffice for all things. With curls I tend to want to use a comb to manipulate it in the style I want. Which is not that great, as we all know. But that's also why rollersets are the best - I can get heatless straight hair with my rollersets and a wrap. Also - KISS - keep it simple stupid!<br />
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So there ya go! what have you done lately? And what products have you come to love or rediscover? Have a great week everybody!!!Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02592618054090025991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4211270544777292152.post-3688877216131600272015-05-26T14:06:00.000+01:002015-05-26T14:06:28.458+01:00The peril that is a weekend at the coastHey y'all<br />
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So I trust my American pals had a good Memorial Weekend? We had a long weekend as well, yesterday was Africa day here in the Southern African region and so me and a few friends decided to head to the coats for some r&r. It was lovely, as well as a peril to my hair and health journeys.<br />
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<a href="http://www.savingourstrands.com/" title="Fitness Friday"><img alt="Fitness Friday" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq6kOv8xIaNxwvVSUe3Zs4rZStQiFjAkgqm7sUWKkIbIop_TQmaUIh0RRjRVJwoyr7g6k4RgidASYJpCTi7PMLlxCc70qFKX0WcK1Qj0YwKWiDpDT1v1AhtnkKfuyPxQgvMxXjDWMWY-k/s1600/FitnessFriday+Badge+2.png" style="border: none;" /></a><br />
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On the hair side - salty humidity is NOT cool. Even though I am freshly relaxed, my hair puffed up like yeasty dough before being beat down with fists. My ends indicated to me that they need extreme TLC as they puffed more, indicating dryness and lack of protein, so I am on those missions. I will relay exactly how in my #WashdayExperience post later this week. </div>
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The BIG peril was of course to my diet and routine. Holy Moses!!! Vacations, even mini ones can prove fatal to a structured eating plan, even if you stay in a self catering chalet and not a hotel. It was an entire cheat weekend, but one learns from one's mistakes and thus I wish to tell you guys what I picked up this past few day:</div>
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<li>Have your "cheat" meal consist of 75% lean protein and then 25% veggies. This weekend I managed to still steer clear of carbs and starches. High protein meals means feeling fuller for longer so you won't be tempted with ice cream stands on the beach. I did slip slightly and realised my body really doesn't like carbs anymore so it really isn't a big loss. I felt annoyed and irritated from the sugar spikes it caused and I'm so over it.</li>
<li>It may be a vacation, but don't sleep in too late. Sleeping in too late means missing breakfast, heading straight into brunch/lunch and over eating. It happened to me both mornings of my weekend away and it led to the most guilt. So, next time, I am going to get up at the same time as always, have my usual breakfast and thus eat normally over lunch. Over eating piles on the calories. </li>
<li>Small coastal towns are awesome for walking, so leave the car and actually walk around. I did manage to get some of this in, but after a certain time in the afternoon the weather didn't really permit it. the mist and the fog was so dense, I would have walked straight into the sea, lol. </li>
<li>Have 100cal snack packs on hand, depending of course on your itinerary whilst on holiday. It helps you to keep within your calorie limits without feeling like you're starving or depraving yourself on vacation. And I'm talking healthy snacks like nuts, seeds, biltong. NOT sweets and candy and cookies and biscuits. </li>
<li>Last but not least, don't beat yourself up if you've crossed the calorie line a few times. Just pick yourself up and start over. Today is Day 1 for me all over again, but it's not like I gained back the 18 pounds I've lost so far in the space of a single weekend. So my attitude will be as if I did, keeping myself in check and being as strict with myself as I was when I started my program 6 weeks ago. And the result will be that hopefully I will shed another 7-9 pounds in the next couple of weeks. </li>
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Essentially at the end of the day, never give up, I've learned that now. Just because one cheats once in a while (and now I'm talking only about food people!!! Don't go getting ideas, lol!) does not mean that all efforts up till that point has been a waste. Trust me, it has not. Don't beat yourself up, accept that you're only human, that mistakes will be made AND that you didn't gain the weight in a month, so stop expecting to lose all of it in a month. To lose and KEEP the weight off requires a life style change, and those are pretty hard if it's too drastic, so slipping here and there is not the end of the world. Just remember that you need to keep a handle on yourself otherwise it turns into the slippery slope and you end up gaining 20 pounds. </div>
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Anyhoo, this journey kicks my butt sometimes, but I'm not giving up, in any way, sense or form. 18 pounds down, 63 pounds to go. There's no stopping me any time soon. </div>
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Have a great week everybody!!!</div>
Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02592618054090025991noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4211270544777292152.post-91920509061338122482015-05-19T15:29:00.001+01:002015-05-19T15:35:23.554+01:00New rules, new staples. Hey there everyone<br />
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So, I told y'all that i am on a weight loss journey. Anyone who is anyone that has ever attempted one will tell you that this tends to be on of the hardest things you'll ever do. Temptation is everywhere!!! As a consequence I have learned a couple of things over the past few weeks that I've been on a new journey and hopefully the last one ever. At the end of this I plan to be slender and strong and STAY that way. So I figured why not do a quick #fitnessfriday post on a Tuesday?<br />
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<a href="http://www.savingourstrands.com/" title="Fitness Friday"><img alt="Fitness Friday" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq6kOv8xIaNxwvVSUe3Zs4rZStQiFjAkgqm7sUWKkIbIop_TQmaUIh0RRjRVJwoyr7g6k4RgidASYJpCTi7PMLlxCc70qFKX0WcK1Qj0YwKWiDpDT1v1AhtnkKfuyPxQgvMxXjDWMWY-k/s1600/FitnessFriday+Badge+2.png" style="border: none;" /></a><br />
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One of the things that I have learned is to prepare food ahead of time. It stops you from giving into stupid cravings which will end up being the down fall of your weight loss plans. The second thing, and I feel that this walks hand in hand with beforehand preparation, is to do smart grocery shopping. I am one of the laziest people you will EVER encounter. They say most women dream of finding the perfect partner/husband/man/ect. Me? I dream of being able to eat whatever I want and NOT gain weight. Because that is as far removed from my reality as me getting it on with Captain America, I needed to get smart about what I actually buy at the store and thus have in my house.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBvj49xOMqPjpwI-ALrQC2ZxwzIhYPXdeGGey1CG38T1oON4EsB-6y2BJt12qEb5-tAJv9YHjEH3rC5xZ44Uuwmzjx4dTtwaxmLn5S5H_FHCu2JdlYIt5z30dizbjs2W60a_-sp5Y83EU/s1600/Chris-evans-as-captain-america.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="592" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBvj49xOMqPjpwI-ALrQC2ZxwzIhYPXdeGGey1CG38T1oON4EsB-6y2BJt12qEb5-tAJv9YHjEH3rC5xZ44Uuwmzjx4dTtwaxmLn5S5H_FHCu2JdlYIt5z30dizbjs2W60a_-sp5Y83EU/s640/Chris-evans-as-captain-america.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hey there good looking!!</td></tr>
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Fish has become a staple. And I specifically look out for cuts and pieces and brands that allow me to either microwave or steam or oven bake, that way avoiding preparing it with any additional fat. Fish fry is out of the window for me, and honestly, I don't miss it.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5wcwTM1TA8HXO8H84ORqp09tRFLYtbgMHnzmkAoWV9em3athcvzYtPNvx1Uj16Qdt28kfQGK2465F9_KqXyyYUdp2eIzXqmPq3xnTtUBW52KOVlxpmkLdef2aKk6Qjchn_2VLIE1b8pQ/s1600/IMG_20150505_183208.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5wcwTM1TA8HXO8H84ORqp09tRFLYtbgMHnzmkAoWV9em3athcvzYtPNvx1Uj16Qdt28kfQGK2465F9_KqXyyYUdp2eIzXqmPq3xnTtUBW52KOVlxpmkLdef2aKk6Qjchn_2VLIE1b8pQ/s640/IMG_20150505_183208.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steamed Thai curry hake, steam vegetables and a side of chunky guacamole. Took me about 15 in total to prepare.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZkt5lITpOPHo2CoExyboNR6sPvwdnlg1bKb5LDgliI9XvKo20OeIMCDdn0ZL1dSG0ElsqttJL7sJ3v1ojiPzHh8ji8jIvHIAVv-GU8G8ZhVIv-eUlf8d6Krz_hbbjC9kJB_okIuJx58I/s1600/IMG_20150518_204442.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZkt5lITpOPHo2CoExyboNR6sPvwdnlg1bKb5LDgliI9XvKo20OeIMCDdn0ZL1dSG0ElsqttJL7sJ3v1ojiPzHh8ji8jIvHIAVv-GU8G8ZhVIv-eUlf8d6Krz_hbbjC9kJB_okIuJx58I/s640/IMG_20150518_204442.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lemon pepper oven baked hake, caulirice and a herby tomato salsa. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCAByveJcCdnVZPf3BnQpv-05CAt1CfEAbLR6-8YXVbA4S3zUqsG40uTq0PAdfgsNT70z7xV4oSVQUKIl2Sr_HEAWi2Jw1XkavzP7Kzj1CjLHulAxpzKLq7nymUJOD5nU4tyDU-w4835I/s1600/20150414_190809.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCAByveJcCdnVZPf3BnQpv-05CAt1CfEAbLR6-8YXVbA4S3zUqsG40uTq0PAdfgsNT70z7xV4oSVQUKIl2Sr_HEAWi2Jw1XkavzP7Kzj1CjLHulAxpzKLq7nymUJOD5nU4tyDU-w4835I/s640/20150414_190809.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oven baked haddock fillet and Greek salad using apple cider vinegar and herbs as dressing</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd74vQiFlRx29hDue47KpozXrDgU77714BZVqrZ0OrjR3MH0YstfM_8D4hgMSxnhauASasDGpi5wZSCchbhVwdBShynE1sAZJN0YM207NGzg84bwl-p6BoCcESZUwRGZXv0mAlIIQHlCk/s1600/20150428_181848+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd74vQiFlRx29hDue47KpozXrDgU77714BZVqrZ0OrjR3MH0YstfM_8D4hgMSxnhauASasDGpi5wZSCchbhVwdBShynE1sAZJN0YM207NGzg84bwl-p6BoCcESZUwRGZXv0mAlIIQHlCk/s640/20150428_181848+(1).jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My staples! </td></tr>
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As y'all can see, I vary the taste of my fishy meals but one theme runs through out - each one of these plates that you see has less than 250 calories in energy, are very low in fat and has next to zero carbohydrates. They're delicious and don't taste like diet food. Remember, eating healthy does not mean eating bland, tasteless food.<br />
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So, what has been your saving grace in the quest to live healthy (and perhaps shed a few pounds?) Till next time y'all!<br />
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<a href="http://www.savingourstrands.com/" title="Fitness Friday"><img alt="Fitness Friday" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq6kOv8xIaNxwvVSUe3Zs4rZStQiFjAkgqm7sUWKkIbIop_TQmaUIh0RRjRVJwoyr7g6k4RgidASYJpCTi7PMLlxCc70qFKX0WcK1Qj0YwKWiDpDT1v1AhtnkKfuyPxQgvMxXjDWMWY-k/s1600/FitnessFriday+Badge+2.png" style="border: none;" /></a><br />
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Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02592618054090025991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4211270544777292152.post-62049106107266530362015-05-15T13:13:00.003+01:002015-05-15T13:13:58.852+01:00My other journeyHey there y'all<div>
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Yes, I am on a bit of a weight loss journey as well, only this time it's different. </div>
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I have almost always been on a diet! My whole life I have been chunky, husky, chubby, fat, obese, a risk to my health and life and I am busy changing that. I am on this journey with my GP by my side. I take supplements up the wazoo, I have cut out practically all starches, carbs and sugars, I drink water like it's going out of fashion and I am trying to eat as clean and organically as possible. Weight loss is 70% nutrition and 30% exercise, and trust me I have been focusing on my nutrition.</div>
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So, in the coming weeks I am planning to update y'all more frequently here on Fitness Fridays, but I didn't want to start until I could see for myself that the discipline is actually paying off. </div>
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so, without further ado:</div>
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Changes aren't always huge. But now that I can see an actual change and difference I am super motivated. I will not give up, I will not relapse, I will soldier on, I WILL make it. </div>
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PS I lost 13 pounds in one month. Only a million more to go (well that's how it feels in my head, lol)</div>
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Have a great weekend everybody!!</div>
Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02592618054090025991noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4211270544777292152.post-46546333438722336122015-05-15T13:03:00.000+01:002015-05-15T13:03:26.682+01:00At last, at last!Hey there all!<br />
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So, my life has been a little topsy turvy, but I need to update y'all quickly on what's going on with my hair, including how my washdays have changed in general.<br />
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<a href="http://www.savingourstrands.com/" title="The Wash Day Experience"><img alt="The Wash Day Experience" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNe0hX59vI8hgm1upT2jSyMFAr_gmRDMTpFP1xAmjTCgZ1FcUtgmgu-jNGV-GC39I61yWs2g9rLhGFB7HyJrwLo-GuQq1t6tqeqXDl4cipej0vC6DAEocJzkSybFf8dtTsXMJWO_c6bos/s1600/The+%23washdayexperience+badge.png" style="border: none;" /></a><br />
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So, wash days: As y'all know I have been struggling with tons of new growth, shedding and breakage and just trying to get my hair under control! Being 6 months post is no joke, and in all honesty, I don't think I'm ready for transitioning, nor am I ready for a big chop. So, the past couple of wash days my mission was to infuse lots of moisture and to strengthen the line of demarcation with layers of protein. So generally lots of coconut oil during the prepoo process and strengthening leave in conditioners. Also, a bit of "experimentation" regarding deep conditioners, since I brought a boat load with me back from the UK.<br />
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So let's start with my experiences with a few of them, and first off Roux Porosity Control and Corrector.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCmOSTuQUdpC6WmP8xPfmt83-h2Pb4adeCbNTvKoMVGeDTmAIJy75LoR9q97eYjp6Q0cpnp9VuUcLw93RPIpTAHCt8sbfXFwIMZVycbRc8CryDklriU4p6ckTARFxQLDbuYhBZtTgyJDo/s1600/roux+porosity+control.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCmOSTuQUdpC6WmP8xPfmt83-h2Pb4adeCbNTvKoMVGeDTmAIJy75LoR9q97eYjp6Q0cpnp9VuUcLw93RPIpTAHCt8sbfXFwIMZVycbRc8CryDklriU4p6ckTARFxQLDbuYhBZtTgyJDo/s400/roux+porosity+control.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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As y'all know, I have always said that my hair is quite porous. When roller setting I ALWAYS need to have a spritz bottle of water nearby as my hair air dries quicker than i can roller set. So I got this and tried it for the first time a couple of wash days ago, and I must say, I like it. It's quite slippy and my hair did feel stronger and more supple after using it. Also, my natural hair (which at stage was about 2 inches worth, LOVED it. I have no discernible curl pattern but after rinsing the Roux it looked as if mini ringlets wanted to pop. If I ever go natural, I think that THIS must be a complete staple just for that fact alone!</div>
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The next issue that I felt needed to be seriously tackled was the SHEDDING. Like a husky in the summer baby, I was being driven nuts with the amounts of hair I had in my hands after every stage of my wash day regimen. Again I turn to something I found in London. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyRdOUQqNTlZur6vJYSvbvy5R976hpPe63U1Znr6pKNYXdOhHD4TPz6Jt-VvaLtOboh3H9NrGIaTWbjajS-jreOcSeiRMnbtuKs3IDPwsi9WGTOzsErCc13LEC9BJdT4dVZYoPehNojkQ/s1600/naat1928.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyRdOUQqNTlZur6vJYSvbvy5R976hpPe63U1Znr6pKNYXdOhHD4TPz6Jt-VvaLtOboh3H9NrGIaTWbjajS-jreOcSeiRMnbtuKs3IDPwsi9WGTOzsErCc13LEC9BJdT4dVZYoPehNojkQ/s400/naat1928.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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So, I have never before heard of nuNaat as a brand but I have read of girls extolling the benefits of garlic in reducing shedding, so when I saw this in a little hole in the wall beauty supply store in Barking, I grabbed it. Also, LOVE! Going to use it again SOON - slippy, very light nice scent (no garlicky smell whatsoever) and it's been a week since I used it - i notice MUCH less shed hair in my comb, so that's a start!<br />
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Next up, my new staple leave in.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEdVSb1vAVZ-Syoi2ZqkxOJ87Xn0hNECbDo61LeXc9Rd6CGdOwAejmPufZGe6KXfwzLAqVsrlFntIi7tzfRZ97uVfYqXanf13Krk1MdIWiqxsKL_RXGvkDZLwl6HYATCipL5aZqnbAYNc/s1600/cantu+leave+in.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEdVSb1vAVZ-Syoi2ZqkxOJ87Xn0hNECbDo61LeXc9Rd6CGdOwAejmPufZGe6KXfwzLAqVsrlFntIi7tzfRZ97uVfYqXanf13Krk1MdIWiqxsKL_RXGvkDZLwl6HYATCipL5aZqnbAYNc/s320/cantu+leave+in.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I have been reading about this leave in conditioner for years! I am about to add myself to the ranks of people who love this leave in. Why? Let me count the ways:<br />
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<li>Big ass jar!!! Generally I hate tubes and stuff where you have to pump out your product so THIS is awesome.</li>
<li>A little goes a long way! I've used it three times now and the last time I opened the jar it still looked like it has never been used!!! </li>
<li>Did I mention BIG ass jar? Now combine that with a little going a long way - this thing is going to last a LONG time, which I am a big fan of!</li>
<li>My hair has been feeling stronger and softer since I started using it. I still use the MoroccanOil leave in as well, y'all know that is a massive staple for over a year now, but the Cantu is here to stay. (Side note: i need to start a little fund for all these foreign products that I love so that I can import them at ridiculous prices when they finish.)</li>
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Other than that, it has been same old same old.</div>
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So, news is - I relaxed my hair! After 6 months, two of which I really struggled. </div>
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I self relaxed with the help of my friend, using my staple ORS No Lye for Girls. </div>
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As I've told y'all before, I have a sensitive scalp, even when I base the hell out of it and this kit has been perfect for me for years! Even though it is a milder formula I still add a good table spoon or two of oil to the mixed relaxer, not to texlax, but to give me a few grace minutes. This kit has everything you need, I however did add an additional step - a protein treatment after neutralizing and before using the moisturizing DC they include in the kit. I used Palmers Protein pack and i loved it. Left my hair a bit stiff but that was corrected once I applied the moisturizing DC. </div>
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Then I applied Bone Strait as my leave in and roller set. I LOVE my hair right now. It's STRAIGHT and smooth and soft and all kinds of awesome. Also, now I have at least a good 3 months that I can pamper and take care of it and focus on length retention instead of worrying about the thicket of new growth. It does have that bit of stiffness though that FRESHLY relaxed hair tends to have from the mineral deposits. So this weekend I am planning to wash my hair with a good chelating shampoo and then I will also take lots of pics so that y'all can see what is currently going on on top of my head. </div>
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In meantime, tell me about your experiences with the above products that I've been using? </div>
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Have a great weekend!</div>
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Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02592618054090025991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4211270544777292152.post-37889060128841257272015-04-23T09:36:00.002+01:002015-04-23T09:38:52.779+01:00Liebster Award 2015Hola hola!!<br />
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So, Yvette from <a href="http://hardmashonatype.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Hard Mashona Type</a> nominated me for the Liebster Award - thank you hon!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJXdNYkX380JXPjmg_KcZR7zFteGasIiyBjgMTc6pmXYMqi9PZT7HtQxBrRcSs-tU1dJItgXZU7nipAblsZFpXjtSpBG24yKrzs4XdaMEMTj8j5G-JT7v2Zs3l72WJe69YmdmKlRGNIXg/s1600/liebster-award4-e1361373936960.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJXdNYkX380JXPjmg_KcZR7zFteGasIiyBjgMTc6pmXYMqi9PZT7HtQxBrRcSs-tU1dJItgXZU7nipAblsZFpXjtSpBG24yKrzs4XdaMEMTj8j5G-JT7v2Zs3l72WJe69YmdmKlRGNIXg/s1600/liebster-award4-e1361373936960.jpg" height="398" width="400" /></a></div>
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<div style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.6000003814697px;">
<span style="border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #404040; font-size: 15px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 22px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Now the rules for the award are:</span></span></div>
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<span style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #404040; font-size: 15px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 22px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: black; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">1.Tag the person's blog who nominated you in your post.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: black; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">2. Nominate 11 bloggers with no more than 500 followers</span></span></div>
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<span style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: black; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">3. Ask 11 questions to your nominees.</span></div>
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<span style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: black; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">4. Let your nominees know they have been chosen. </span></div>
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<span style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: black; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">5. Post your answers to the questions you answered</span></div>
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<span style="border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: black; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">6. Don't forget to comment on this post with your link so I can see how you answered the questions.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #783f04; white-space: pre-wrap;">So here goes - my answers to Yvette's questions:</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 20.7000007629395px;"><b style="background-color: #783f04;">1. Who/what inspired you to start blogging?</b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #783f04;">Well, I actually started blogging just to write again, I've always liked writing. A few years ago though, whilst sitting in tears of frustration, I started searching for advice on how to deal with my hair. As a consequence I found the hair blogosphere, filled with ladies who have grown their hair, that looks just like mine, to unimagined lengths. These first ladies not only showed me the way regarding actually CARING for my hair, but they also were my initial inspiration to document my journey in this blog and they were Ebony from Longing4Length, Jeni from Just Grow Already and Nadege from Relaxed Hair Health. </span></div>
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<span style="font-style: inherit; line-height: 1.38;"><b style="background-color: #783f04;">2. What has blogging help you to achieve?</b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #783f04;">Apart from my hair being longer than ever before in my adult life, blogging also introduced me to these wonderful women all around the world! I can talk to them, and ask for advice freely. When I write a post, I imagine that we're all sitting with a cup of coffee and discussing our latest hair wins and fails. In my real life, outside of the hairblogging world, my friends come to me regarding any hair queries, which I appreciate, because it shows me that they value my advice and opinion. </span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 20.7000007629395px;"><b style="background-color: #783f04;">3. If you were stranded on a deserted island, what 5 things would you want with you?</b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #783f04;">Well, we're assuming immediately that there is an abundance of fresh water, fresh fruit and shelter on this island. That being said I would want: </span></div>
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<li><span style="background-color: #783f04; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20.7000007629395px;">My person</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: #783f04; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20.7000007629395px;">A fully charged satellite phone - I'm not planning to be stranded long, thank you very much</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: #783f04; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20.7000007629395px;">Sunscreen</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: #783f04; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20.7000007629395px;">A very slippy moisture rich conditioner</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: #783f04; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20.7000007629395px;">Rum (yes, just like Jack Sparrow)</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-style: inherit; line-height: 20.7000007629395px;"><b style="background-color: #783f04;">4. If given the opportunity, which country would you like to live and work in for a year?</b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #783f04; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 20.7000007629395px;">It's a toss up between the USA, the UK and Australia. Since I have lived in the US for almost a year and I have been to the UK very recently, I guess Oz wins this round. Of course, the perfect scenario for me would be to live and work in New York, earn a ridiculous amount of money which I will save up and then at the end of that year just travel for 3 months.</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 20.7000007629395px;"><b style="background-color: #783f04;">5. What is the one thing you love most about your home country?</b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #783f04;">Namibia is a beautiful country. Still very young, as we've only recently celebrated our 25th year of Independence. We are however a peaceful country and one of the most stable in all of Africa. The people are friendly and hospitable and welcoming. The one thing I love MOST though is the fact that I only have to drive 15-20 minutes from my front door to find myself in unspoiled nature, even though the city is just around the corner.</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 20.7000007629395px;"><b style="background-color: #783f04;">6. If you had $50,000 to give to charity, which charity would you donate to and why?</b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #783f04;">I would donate it to charity that provides shelter for abused women and children. Domestic violence is unfortunately quite prevalent and our city does not really have facilities for women to escape to in order to get away from their abusive husbands or partners. So, I would donate it to a halfway house that can truly protect as well as council these women. </span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 20.7000007629395px;"><b style="background-color: #783f04;">7. Can you tell us 3 random facts about you?</b></span></div>
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<li><span style="background-color: #783f04; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20.7000007629395px;">I'm a complete and utter Potterhead. I have read all the Harry Potter books multiple times, I've seen all the films multiple times and I've visited Warner Bros Studios: The Making of Harry Potter in Leavesden, UK. Also, I wear a golden snitch around my neck. </span></li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwB85vVumhZ3pc1GaOf4M_xrgC4OJkkisEGhCbtOJiusMHsh18pCFzGBIek_BkTnXGvqcQviPBCd-gRbWdI5Eb16T6V62PhvzSlUOaKcvNrYCAWgU1De92mzqUOpEwho7pupNaXcSakB4/s1600/harry-potter-new-posters.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: #783f04; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwB85vVumhZ3pc1GaOf4M_xrgC4OJkkisEGhCbtOJiusMHsh18pCFzGBIek_BkTnXGvqcQviPBCd-gRbWdI5Eb16T6V62PhvzSlUOaKcvNrYCAWgU1De92mzqUOpEwho7pupNaXcSakB4/s1600/harry-potter-new-posters.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: #783f04; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20.7000007629395px;"><br /></span></div>
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<li><span style="background-color: #783f04; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20.7000007629395px;">I still have flights of fancy of being "discovered" as a singer. I love singing and I karaoke a lot and I'm quite good, if I say so myself. </span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: #783f04; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20.7000007629395px;">I have a deviated septum, which gives me so much grief. Chronic sinusitus is probably one of the most annoying of conditions. So, I'm planning to undergo surgery before the end of this year to have it fixed. </span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="background-color: #783f04;"><br style="line-height: 20.7000007629395px;" /></span>
<span style="line-height: 20.7000007629395px;"><b style="background-color: #783f04;">8. If you were on an episode of Come Dine with Me, which celebrities, alive or deceased, would you want to compete with?</b></span></div>
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<li><span style="background-color: #783f04; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 1.38;">Jennifer Lawrence, definitely. I predict a fun night with her at the table. </span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: #783f04; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 1.38;">Mike Shinoda, the MC and vocalist of my favourite band ever - Linkin Park. </span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: #783f04; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 1.38;">Theo James - the very simple reason of him being HOT. I think he is seriously one of the most attractive men I have ever laid eyes on. </span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: #783f04; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 1.38;">Michelle Rodriguez - because she is one badass chick! I love strong women that don't any crap from anybody. Also, she'll probably bring the tequila, lol!</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="line-height: 20.7000007629395px;"><b style="background-color: #783f04;">9. Book version or movie version?</b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #783f04;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #783f04;">Book version, always!!! It's extremely rare that the movie version truly matches the book. But there have been some pretty good book-to-movie adaptations lately, specifically the Harry Potter series and the Hunger Games trilogy. I usually make a point of reading the book before seeing the film, although sometimes when I was not aware of the existence of a book, then I will seek out the book after enjoying the film. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #783f04;"><br style="line-height: 20.7000007629395px;" /></span>
<span style="line-height: 20.7000007629395px;"><b style="background-color: #783f04;">10. What do you love most about what you do (work or school)?</b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #783f04;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #783f04;">The constant evolution of the law, the opportunity to continue learning, the chance to make a difference. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #783f04;"><br style="line-height: 20.7000007629395px;" /></span>
<span style="line-height: 20.7000007629395px;"><b style="background-color: #783f04;">11. What do you hope to accomplish in the next 5 years?</b></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 20.7000007629395px;"><b style="background-color: #783f04;"><br /></b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #783f04;">I barely know what I hope to accomplish in the next 5 days, lol. I want everything, I want to see everything, I want to experience everything...Of course I wish for advancement in my career, who doesn't. But personally, within the next five years I would like to OWN a home of my own. Property prices here are ridiculous and it's going to take a lot of saving, planning and praying for me to be able to buy a house. But yeah, that's front and center. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #783f04;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #783f04;">I herewith tag and nominate the following awesome bloggers for this award:</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #783f04;"><br /></span></div>
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<li><span style="background-color: #783f04;">Bee of <a href="http://glamlushhair.blogspot.com/">glamlushhair.blogspot.com</a></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: #783f04;">Melissa from <a href="http://haircaregy.blogspot.com/">haircaregy.blogspot.com</a></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: #783f04;">Neisha from <a href="http://www.neishajo.com/">www.neishajo.com</a></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: #783f04;">Andrea from <a href="http://www.lengtheninglocks.blogspot.com/">www.lengtheninglocks.blogspot.com</a></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: #783f04;">Tomi from <a href="http://tomesedition.blogspot.com/">http://tomesedition.blogspot.com</a> </span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: #783f04;">Candice from <a href="http://myhealthyhairdiary.blogspot.com/">myhealthyhairdiary.blogspot.com</a></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: #783f04;">Southern Girl from <a href="http://www.pecanpieandpincurls.com/">http://www.pecanpieandpincurls.com/</a></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: #783f04;">Harlem from <a href="http://harlemhhj.blogspot.com/">http://harlemhhj.blogspot.com/</a></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: #783f04;">Lydz from <a href="http://crowningglorymine.blogspot.com/">http://crowningglorymine.blogspot.com/</a></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: #783f04;">Jackie from <a href="http://adventuresofanappychica.blogspot.com/">http://adventuresofanappychica.blogspot.com/</a></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: #783f04;">Jas-Sherese from <a href="http://lengthylovelylocks.blogspot.com/">http://lengthylovelylocks.blogspot.com</a></span></li>
</ul>
<div style="font-style: inherit;">
<span style="background-color: #783f04;">and I hereby post to y'all the following questions:</span></div>
<div style="font-style: inherit;">
<span style="background-color: #783f04;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<ol>
<li><span style="background-color: #783f04;">Do you have a favorite designer? If you do, who is it and why?</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: #783f04;">What movie most recently made you shed a tear or two?</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: #783f04;">What's your dream car? </span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: #783f04;">If there's one hair care product that you would universally recommend, what would that be and why?</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: #783f04;">What are the top three items on your bucket list?</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: #783f04;">If someone offered you free plastic surgery, what procedure would you have done?</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: #783f04;">What music do you listen to during a workout?</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: #783f04;">How long have you been on your healthy hair journey?</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: #783f04;">Do you have any tattoos and/or piercings? If yes, tell us about them. </span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: #783f04;">Favourite book and why?</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: #783f04;">White picket fence in the suburbs or penthouse in the city?</span></li>
</ol>
<div>
<span style="background-color: #783f04;">There we go! Looking forward to reading yours, and so learn a little more about y'all. </span></div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: #783f04;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: #783f04;">Till next time!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: #783f04;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: #783f04;">Adios amigos! </span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
</span><div style="background-color: white;">
</div>
</div>
Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02592618054090025991noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4211270544777292152.post-15494252083989878062015-04-21T12:47:00.000+01:002015-04-21T12:47:42.032+01:00Re-evaluating my needs<div style="text-align: justify;">
Hey there y'all! </div>
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Trust everyone has had a great week behind them. I am having a good hair week, FINALLY, for the first time in a while. I'm STILL struggling with breakage and shedding, but my hair feels stronger and more moisturised and more supple this week than it has in a while, so clearly I did something right this past wash day. </div>
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Now, just quick update on what's actually going on on top of my head. I did not document when I last relaxed my hair, but I do know that it was before my birthday last year, which falls in early December. So roughly calculating from the week of my birthday, I'm about 20 weeks post relaxer, which explains the mop of new growth that I'm dealing with. This was also a very much unintentional stretch - colouring my hair and putting in twists and going to London and my very trusty hairdresser moving to another town 800 km away all contributed to me not "getting my hair did". As y'all know, I am NOT a fan of multiple textures and trying to find the happy middle ground of dealing with them, so y'all can expect one of two things happening in the near future - a relaxer update or a big chop, cause I'm DONE! Note - I am not going to transition. Ever. If I go natural, it'll be a big chop. I truly cannot stand working with multiple textures, they drive me insane!</div>
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Secondly, I cut off about an inch of hair all by myself - the raggiest of the raggedy ends, in order to curb some of the freaking breakage. And I think it worked, I haven't seen short broken hairs in my hands since. But I'm still trying to curb the demarcation line breakage. I suspect that this past wash day was the first step into the right direction, as I'm starting to think that I have concentrated so much on moisture the past few months, that I have thrown off the moisture-protein balance in my hair and THUS it's breaking like crazy. </div>
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Thirdly, one my of my best friends have a birthday party this week themed "Great Gatsby" and I'm planning to wig it up for the party. To do this I'm planning to have my hair cornrowed on Friday and then in the process also have a protective style for a week or two whilst wigging it up. Yes, I DO realise that this might cause me to stretch even longer and that the relaxer or big chop might not happen for another couple of weeks. BUT I feel that doing this is a healthier option for the themed party than trying to manipulate my own hair into a 1920's worthy style. It's also getting cooler this side of the world and protective styling during the winter has been my go to since I started this journey 3 years ago. </div>
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Okidokie, let's get stuck into this week's #washdayexperience, which essentially led to the above realizations. </div>
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<a href="http://www.savingourstrands.com/" title="The Wash Day Experience"><img alt="The Wash Day Experience" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNe0hX59vI8hgm1upT2jSyMFAr_gmRDMTpFP1xAmjTCgZ1FcUtgmgu-jNGV-GC39I61yWs2g9rLhGFB7HyJrwLo-GuQq1t6tqeqXDl4cipej0vC6DAEocJzkSybFf8dtTsXMJWO_c6bos/s1600/The+%23washdayexperience+badge.png" style="border: none;" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkRuOlk2dqqfKFAIUlDeJAZXLD1hcVmg6ua6dFNzpxhDCZW3LKU6y_cx4pWspFjoMg8C8Noxvjm_DoNDRL-d7OEo9a5QB9BQx1lKzX3CqtBEcHO6jRbihMw3mvVMwhp83yWT9_2AQspQU/s1600/IMG_20150416_120758.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkRuOlk2dqqfKFAIUlDeJAZXLD1hcVmg6ua6dFNzpxhDCZW3LKU6y_cx4pWspFjoMg8C8Noxvjm_DoNDRL-d7OEo9a5QB9BQx1lKzX3CqtBEcHO6jRbihMw3mvVMwhp83yWT9_2AQspQU/s1600/IMG_20150416_120758.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My look the day BEFORE wash day - a little pompoudour and french plaited in the back - had this protective style for 3 days straight.<br /><br /></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQeLa3c6wcLnghqkD9bTD4vQIfkSRNAPRGPkHsEFHwtGNn-iM4fNWCHZXj6mGzG-EvlEKxZobUDLV3iW4kh0P_1nezROBoxOfbenpm5CBybU6HdWRgfLbVBiLp4PU3Q2pnz_gUHToJSwY/s1600/20150418_104901.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQeLa3c6wcLnghqkD9bTD4vQIfkSRNAPRGPkHsEFHwtGNn-iM4fNWCHZXj6mGzG-EvlEKxZobUDLV3iW4kh0P_1nezROBoxOfbenpm5CBybU6HdWRgfLbVBiLp4PU3Q2pnz_gUHToJSwY/s1600/20150418_104901.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My prepoo mix - as y'all can see, EVERYTHING contains argan/Moroccan oil as an ingredient. </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcR8h5AMQwaf-ojRrrFhgtj2bF_JIvsa_yyNaCIE4rNoZj0oQFqRGm129EBYFUo3xRlZmcUTcUA6uFWkgwDeDDrfgV54-ucKwgCxhygjV8GQN6qlmAPn2Wh1T3zflDXepl-quNu-99jsY/s1600/20150418_114156.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcR8h5AMQwaf-ojRrrFhgtj2bF_JIvsa_yyNaCIE4rNoZj0oQFqRGm129EBYFUo3xRlZmcUTcUA6uFWkgwDeDDrfgV54-ucKwgCxhygjV8GQN6qlmAPn2Wh1T3zflDXepl-quNu-99jsY/s1600/20150418_114156.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hair lost during the prepoo and detangling process, primarily shedding, but still significant breakage. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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As the pics above detail, I wore a french braid with a pompoudour for 3 days straight as a protective style before my wash day. On my wash day I mixed up my prepoo mix, this time, as you can see, using primarily the last bit of all my AVON Advance Techniques conditioners as well as the last of my Sunsilk conditioner. I also added a CRAP load of sunflower oil, feeling that it's time that I reintroduce ceramides into my hair regimen. I finger detangled and applied my prepoo mix in six separate sections, twisting up each section as I go along. During the prepoo application process I collected every single hair and ended up with too much for my liking. After applying the entire prepoo mixture I wrapped up my hair in a plastic cap, my shower cap and my AVON microfibre head wrap and promptly became a lazy bum in front of the TV. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUlJdW8w4VAfE0HTh3gmipneNju3CvTnOPt83LA0sZ0STtA9UKFfWdzXdqoYJ3MszqD2qxir5Qp8nhRoFt3DYVtxjN0H0nQVqIRoih_F0jDsA2SPE2tpT2Jmc0-EUc-rurynP38fnATMg/s1600/20150418_114330.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUlJdW8w4VAfE0HTh3gmipneNju3CvTnOPt83LA0sZ0STtA9UKFfWdzXdqoYJ3MszqD2qxir5Qp8nhRoFt3DYVtxjN0H0nQVqIRoih_F0jDsA2SPE2tpT2Jmc0-EUc-rurynP38fnATMg/s1600/20150418_114330.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Prepoo chilling - still cute though, lol!!</td></tr>
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It was a LONG prepoo session, because I forgot to put on the geyser before I started, so after sitting for about 45 minutes I wanted to go shower and continue with the rest of my washday process, but I can't do cold showers, nope, nope, lots of nope. So I then switched on the geyser and proceeded to wait for the water to warm up, a time period during which I watched an episode of something. so essentially, at the end of the day my prepoo alone was 2 hours long!</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7RpsuBgUY16y15gVC0rSjaGnYeTq80L3vPSwIpNrUgvZveQQtoxGQOTifWY8tSTse4APkzqFKSqsbNXwHAGUM1NoFb9BZHbIssbS5GMsPvAW_cZJlki57Pr3GscOGkoybiW2L3SzmlW4/s1600/20150418_133506.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7RpsuBgUY16y15gVC0rSjaGnYeTq80L3vPSwIpNrUgvZveQQtoxGQOTifWY8tSTse4APkzqFKSqsbNXwHAGUM1NoFb9BZHbIssbS5GMsPvAW_cZJlki57Pr3GscOGkoybiW2L3SzmlW4/s1600/20150418_133506.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My shampoo - it's the business!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiFvRjRXaFD7G2Trsp5MVeMNM69v32lu57u1rRdPwLX9KR8omjQbvw-Mpg_COLlZ_RnilGtKE5O8mkwVbuzSX6FMLOKeO2_3jXn92NApVR0KjVZW6tr-GXPrk1oDs5ewsS90Ezy7eao_E/s1600/20150418_133543.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiFvRjRXaFD7G2Trsp5MVeMNM69v32lu57u1rRdPwLX9KR8omjQbvw-Mpg_COLlZ_RnilGtKE5O8mkwVbuzSX6FMLOKeO2_3jXn92NApVR0KjVZW6tr-GXPrk1oDs5ewsS90Ezy7eao_E/s1600/20150418_133543.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Smoothing and detangling conditioner - I need more!!!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4UAOk42dz3AR1luZOmxfDbYamYM47875oXnusp_HHjGMOwnw7D4z9ipbuflinQFEXkJU6z-eBaOXwDe8Q7QoBywhj6dLtzot-x8jga824zYV3A8uAIMu676GJpmIeg8xSy9KB6-TnmkQ/s1600/20150418_133536.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4UAOk42dz3AR1luZOmxfDbYamYM47875oXnusp_HHjGMOwnw7D4z9ipbuflinQFEXkJU6z-eBaOXwDe8Q7QoBywhj6dLtzot-x8jga824zYV3A8uAIMu676GJpmIeg8xSy9KB6-TnmkQ/s1600/20150418_133536.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My deep conditioner - first time experience. </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVKEdYUsQF1QEuCkfWXw9oUXCx5pfN5YBQdQyDFnDd4MGyXoVP7lnNwBKhWCmlusVyR_4TGjr-aPvD3tChDq-nNjx0nNA-3Y0Bqt_u3yTN4aLsc2ivU-OEhlrpKnH4veP4xSahI0Laqy0/s1600/IMG_20150331_011327.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVKEdYUsQF1QEuCkfWXw9oUXCx5pfN5YBQdQyDFnDd4MGyXoVP7lnNwBKhWCmlusVyR_4TGjr-aPvD3tChDq-nNjx0nNA-3Y0Bqt_u3yTN4aLsc2ivU-OEhlrpKnH4veP4xSahI0Laqy0/s1600/IMG_20150331_011327.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Staple leave ins. HE Bee strong is on it's last legs though.</td></tr>
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So, water finally warm and I'm in the shower. Shampooed with Tresemme Naturals Nourishing Moisture Shampoo. I forgot how nice this shampoo works - uber lather but my hair didn't feel stripped. </div>
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Then I dived for the HE Hello Hydration Conditioner as my smoothing and detangling conditioner. now, on a previous wash day I had massive tangles and knots, mainly due to the multiple textures and very thick new growth. So, I decided to go to my OLD method, that used to work 2 years ago, but I somehow abandoned - finger detangling at every step of the wash day process. So, starting at the nape I separated a section, pinning the rest up with a claw clip, and then with some Hello Hydration I started to finger detangle my hair. This conditioner has awesome slip, the knots easily slipped out, the tangles were not very big competition for this conditioner. I did this section by section, moving forward on my head until my entire head was covered in conditioner and finger detangled. Unfortunately, this method also means more manipulation and since my hair has not been in its ideal state, this also led to more shedding and breakage. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTpw5qVkMg4Lc74eQM9sWBsOoepRKH8TtcPJT3_ZvzUnqiivJprVinkgwrCuh-Ilqt6-tUePcnj2h0ELt5aDvLoFUL2aLs_gviqx_IUHdnTSnRTu2p1boHbLC2UH_01ltK2f2ZdJ9MY1k/s1600/20150418_152554.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTpw5qVkMg4Lc74eQM9sWBsOoepRKH8TtcPJT3_ZvzUnqiivJprVinkgwrCuh-Ilqt6-tUePcnj2h0ELt5aDvLoFUL2aLs_gviqx_IUHdnTSnRTu2p1boHbLC2UH_01ltK2f2ZdJ9MY1k/s1600/20150418_152554.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Total amount of hair lost in the shower during rinsing, shampoo, conditioner detangling, rinsing, DC application and rinsing. </td></tr>
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After rinsing the Hello Hydration I deep conditioned with Elasta QP Intense Fortifying Hair Conditioning Treatment. I've only ever read about this conditioner as it is SO NOT available in my country. So on my recent trip to London I picked up a LOT of products that I've only been dreaming of and this was one of them. It was the first time using it and looking at the ingredients list and description it seems like a mild protein DC, but with plenty of moisturising agents. So, I applied it liberally in sections. It also has a nice slip but it also feels slightly tacky. I didn't really care for how it felt in my hands. It also did absorb or penetrate into my hair as quickly as I hoped, but I could see that should I go natural that my hair would LOVE it, because the curls in my new growth suddenly started popping a bit. I again wrapped up my hair and ended up on the couch. The instructions say to condition for 10 minutes, but I suspect I DC'd for about 45 minutes to an hour. When I rinsed, my hair felt quite strong without feeling dry.</div>
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I then applied my leave ins of MoroccanOil Treatment and HE Bee Strong Conditioning Creme and proceeded to rollerset my hair with my normal rollers. I used Ebony's, from Longing4Length, 3 comb method to again detangle and then rollerset, of course spritzing the hair as I went so to ensure that the hair is wet to ensure it be as smooth as possible. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhX_Fuchap7hv_TeqQb75EqcVTPoIimsrfE_6pkNiSFGk1hipGylMzBayFAAPOUyVKHBi7FzGMq6wkY9bFQnG_3KsGvhh83E4QEoFDGhyphenhyphendacwsCXr2579mDX0sMSg4YWb_ZNUFtX6z7hI/s1600/20150418_171058.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhX_Fuchap7hv_TeqQb75EqcVTPoIimsrfE_6pkNiSFGk1hipGylMzBayFAAPOUyVKHBi7FzGMq6wkY9bFQnG_3KsGvhh83E4QEoFDGhyphenhyphendacwsCXr2579mDX0sMSg4YWb_ZNUFtX6z7hI/s1600/20150418_171058.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hair lost during the rollersetting process. </td></tr>
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I then let my hair air dry in the rollers until completely dry. When I took out the rollers many hours later it was already getting late and I felt exhausted. I thus just combed my hair into a ponytail and wrapped it with my satin scarf. </div>
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It's been a couple of days since that wash and my hair has been behaving better than it has the week before, that's for sure. It feels stronger, it looks smoother, it feels and looks softer. I've kept my styling and handling very simple - sleep with the satin scarf (that OF COURSE slips off in the middle of the night), use my rake comb when styling, wear a pony tail or pin up, massage a little bit of Jamaican Black Castor Oil pomade (also a London buy) into the roots and ends. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4GgZsYKeM4U8PkHkB0w16otzzKxhaghDsEf_hyphenhyphencsNYYLXf9b-i297YYyxCSzhPZ1LU0zYzwLZD10baEJSLBIcf5BppGqTEyW_EJd1PIHjSmfaDSqivP1EbddP8cOTKwScWq1QNEcfqVc/s1600/20150421_105233.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4GgZsYKeM4U8PkHkB0w16otzzKxhaghDsEf_hyphenhyphencsNYYLXf9b-i297YYyxCSzhPZ1LU0zYzwLZD10baEJSLBIcf5BppGqTEyW_EJd1PIHjSmfaDSqivP1EbddP8cOTKwScWq1QNEcfqVc/s1600/20150421_105233.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day 4 hair - pulled back into a ponytail with the bangs banging. </td></tr>
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My next wash day might be either tomorrow or Thursday, in preparation for the cornrows for the wig for Friday's party. BUT I am going to repeat all of the above steps and see if incorporating more protein on wash day via the Elasta QP might actually SOLVE my breakage issues once and for all! Hopefully, the hair balls will be significantly smaller. Here's to getting my hair back on track!!</div>
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Hope your wash days were awesome! If you haven't yet, join the<a href="http://www.savingourstrands.com/p/the-wash-day-experience.html" target="_blank"> Wash Day Experience</a> and tell the rest of us how you keep your mane in check. </div>
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Till next time ladies! Adios!</div>
Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02592618054090025991noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4211270544777292152.post-61811042190035869732015-03-31T17:11:00.000+02:002015-04-02T09:08:43.753+02:00A whole new wash day experience!<div style="text-align: justify;">
Hey there y'all!! </div>
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So, I promised you that I will be more active and prolific from now on, and I come to deliver with a wash day post. I haven't done one in a while basically because I haven't done much. I have been skimping on pre-poo and DC sessions (I know! Sacrilege!), I have SO much new growth even though I'm only a bit over 12 weeks post (I'm NOT sure how much, I just know that I last relaxed in December, between my birthday and Christmas, okay maybe I'm 14 weeks post)</div>
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So, I started off with a decent prepoo, using a little mixture of old conditioners and some kitchen basics. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZG6rz4TLr75ALBkz72ZC4aJFzTvJdncLgT5rLtrFUB3VhKptDnBhtPWZwYDfCLQmY329mJE1daE93feKd5xmdFK5gVzOtGT-tqwg-zQSEcFWTSDY5HpVWXDLYPeP_3LBmhvqjSKhH7T8/s1600/IMG_20150330_221806.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZG6rz4TLr75ALBkz72ZC4aJFzTvJdncLgT5rLtrFUB3VhKptDnBhtPWZwYDfCLQmY329mJE1daE93feKd5xmdFK5gVzOtGT-tqwg-zQSEcFWTSDY5HpVWXDLYPeP_3LBmhvqjSKhH7T8/s1600/IMG_20150330_221806.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My pre-poo mix</td></tr>
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So, I made a prepoo mixture of Sunsilk Argan Oil Conditioner, Avon Advance Techniques Supreme Oils Conditioner, honey, coconut oil and salt. The latter I have read about on a couple of blogs, that it also increases the moisturising abilities of conditioners. So, mixed it all together, slapped it on, rubbed it through and then covered my hair with a plastic cap and a beanie and started watching Troy. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiemz_g6WCsgi1G72l0GtMGQCx9lHOQfJDsn8R5n6efCltS-tjHvusMbrIN6x-rlA3j9mGtaJHFb6Ng9Lbqw1PxLfFtC5giuh2nhsnt7_ecssYX9Mn6SdfLJ-YyoLqsyeg0d63U5uqv8aA/s1600/IMG_20150330_222140.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiemz_g6WCsgi1G72l0GtMGQCx9lHOQfJDsn8R5n6efCltS-tjHvusMbrIN6x-rlA3j9mGtaJHFb6Ng9Lbqw1PxLfFtC5giuh2nhsnt7_ecssYX9Mn6SdfLJ-YyoLqsyeg0d63U5uqv8aA/s1600/IMG_20150330_222140.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amount of hair lost during detangling when I applied the prepoo mix.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1so2mVz_EguMGSIGA2_q2P_YdMh9_wla1P-K10VdX3iTirOMGcojoyxucpzcgtbxHhAW58f69lJC6nYweS4JFEsIt9_WYiVCmlo4HnM1uBmfepJCnvLXAuq8_N5-XRzFoPFxEfqaFsZY/s1600/IMG_20150330_222250.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1so2mVz_EguMGSIGA2_q2P_YdMh9_wla1P-K10VdX3iTirOMGcojoyxucpzcgtbxHhAW58f69lJC6nYweS4JFEsIt9_WYiVCmlo4HnM1uBmfepJCnvLXAuq8_N5-XRzFoPFxEfqaFsZY/s1600/IMG_20150330_222250.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My prepoo selfie, lmao!</td></tr>
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I chilled for a while, then shampooed with Avon Advance Techniques Supreme Oils shampoo. When I rinsed the prepoo, my hair felt SO ridiculously soft!!! I then just did a quick smoothing conditioning with the Sunsilk conditioner and THEN I did my first HARD protein treatment ever!</div>
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Remember I told y'all that I bought a bunch of new products in London that are generally unavailable in Windhoek, and one of those beauties was the Aphogee Two Step Protein treatment. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLf76aTNTdIrqP-214SyMuHxk8PVo-bHC57mNaBGqA00AhbmhvGmYBZ8qKWVQjuCXMiDXjrUpxqfmIB1W-kraqqp2Z67F_aOFzpzMA0QO-enwv6p1V8GdcGNTU8pyqEzD6MYrcZYs-SME/s1600/IMG_20150330_224831.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLf76aTNTdIrqP-214SyMuHxk8PVo-bHC57mNaBGqA00AhbmhvGmYBZ8qKWVQjuCXMiDXjrUpxqfmIB1W-kraqqp2Z67F_aOFzpzMA0QO-enwv6p1V8GdcGNTU8pyqEzD6MYrcZYs-SME/s1600/IMG_20150330_224831.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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Guys, this thing stinks! I swear, it smells like rotten eggs and smelly feet mixed together. It also has a very runny consistency. i didn't have a spray bottle this time, but next time I will definitely rather use a spray bottle to apply this stuff. </div>
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So I applied it all over, concentrating on my ratty ends. I kept it on for about 5 minutes until I started feeling my hair getting hard from the product. I then rinsed it as gently as possible. Even after all the protein was gone my hair still felt super stiff, so I gave it another quick smoothing with the sunsilk conditioner before deep conditioning with another self made mix. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVRgcF62FarKv2_rENjMt8poJTu6XmEOPPSYlUFJgbRpq5h9iiPHeqt8NOAOpTecR8LFyzycK3s_WqnMi6YVmtWOzMtTdVmJ1p6ChAYKHmwAXPer7wWvbkYCJGkfPBKzLk33LOeIK73C8/s1600/IMG_20150330_234325.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVRgcF62FarKv2_rENjMt8poJTu6XmEOPPSYlUFJgbRpq5h9iiPHeqt8NOAOpTecR8LFyzycK3s_WqnMi6YVmtWOzMtTdVmJ1p6ChAYKHmwAXPer7wWvbkYCJGkfPBKzLk33LOeIK73C8/s1600/IMG_20150330_234325.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amount of hair lost during the shampoo, protein, rinsing and DC application and rinsing processes. </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAvPm4jNgYy-F-YG1C9utcBklPrLjzt9u5bZcGCU1RCH_9XtFtQAOuQV_qgeWTeEhY0jXPY8ZsNwf1ABPydd3UbLt2mPx0afEqhVaboLTwMUK7mz9nSgOMl5hta-d2q7QXGxX6Z02OqW0/s1600/IMG_20150330_230841.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAvPm4jNgYy-F-YG1C9utcBklPrLjzt9u5bZcGCU1RCH_9XtFtQAOuQV_qgeWTeEhY0jXPY8ZsNwf1ABPydd3UbLt2mPx0afEqhVaboLTwMUK7mz9nSgOMl5hta-d2q7QXGxX6Z02OqW0/s1600/IMG_20150330_230841.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My DC mix</td></tr>
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As y'all can see, my DC mix mirrors my prepoo mixture, with the conditioner changing to Herbal Essences Beautiful Ends, also picked up at Boots in London. Side note: Honey, coconut oil and salt are now officially staples to add to ANY conditioner to up it's quotient into DC territory. </div>
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Same routine - plastic cap, beanie and continue watching Troy. I cannot recall how long my DC session was, I get lost in time when I watch Troy (I mean, who wouldn't??)</div>
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Then rinse, my hair feeling super soft, but stronger than it's felt in months. Thank you Aphogee!!! Also shout out to Ebony and KLP for the advice last night via Twitter!</div>
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I then applied my leave ins - MorrocanOil Treatment and Herbal Essences Bee Strong Creme, the latter also a London pick up (I told y'all, I LOST MY MIND) and proceeded to rollerset on big orange perm rods (yep, also new. Judgement free zone).</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMxJgzZC_7zWAhzMmlEOz_s3w5vV4s4fe0bR9N9W2d9IfbWhKVpPUOieRgBR7avI8ZC9Slsi6JPE8C6vLR2-4cKRZpfs3XsiA7mfSjm88cYw4BLNxxpR8FcuK3xxGwfnAkIsq3xecXnd0/s1600/IMG_20150331_011327.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMxJgzZC_7zWAhzMmlEOz_s3w5vV4s4fe0bR9N9W2d9IfbWhKVpPUOieRgBR7avI8ZC9Slsi6JPE8C6vLR2-4cKRZpfs3XsiA7mfSjm88cYw4BLNxxpR8FcuK3xxGwfnAkIsq3xecXnd0/s1600/IMG_20150331_011327.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leave ins</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1tE_9d9pxzHBdTrT5-_4AT2Tt8GKrefo0JJOfM-0rRUQKYz4Rjdk6gdgXdyH4mGHOKxRQlfqCCHQdkEg0YlmBleJKfaq-5dp1Y6hWnNDlaxq1xu-e2ORBDuYhHOFjyvl38NcvNAb4D4c/s1600/IMG_20150331_011446.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1tE_9d9pxzHBdTrT5-_4AT2Tt8GKrefo0JJOfM-0rRUQKYz4Rjdk6gdgXdyH4mGHOKxRQlfqCCHQdkEg0YlmBleJKfaq-5dp1Y6hWnNDlaxq1xu-e2ORBDuYhHOFjyvl38NcvNAb4D4c/s1600/IMG_20150331_011446.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm tired, it's getting late and trying specific rollers for the first time is always a little bit of a bitch</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2t-PXijNwuIDh0_35hHJ0YPB_mkHa6TJgkz5Kf1bunAn_JPO6_a0TueKOw877743GnVuvY6GLU-MeAFk8RVU2AOlD2N_QoqLB-wzaUosLh0uuiIM3tpwt2YZ2lw4NrQQAStD_7_maC5E/s1600/IMG_20150331_011453.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2t-PXijNwuIDh0_35hHJ0YPB_mkHa6TJgkz5Kf1bunAn_JPO6_a0TueKOw877743GnVuvY6GLU-MeAFk8RVU2AOlD2N_QoqLB-wzaUosLh0uuiIM3tpwt2YZ2lw4NrQQAStD_7_maC5E/s1600/IMG_20150331_011453.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not bad for a first time I thought.</td></tr>
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By this time, it was closing in on midnight, so I decided to just sleep with the rods. It wasn't too uncomfortable, actually WAY more comfy then curl formers AND flexi rods. </div>
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So, this morning I took out the rods and then separated the curls just a little bit and that's all she wrote. Lord knows how long they will actually last since as you can see i didn't use a drop of holding product. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikE80y08qgPvLItLYBiMI0dwBTMT1ipMnIxzDxLrl-N907Q5FJXSpA4sClU0jrr0H0crQjeGjsOMp47u1ue-eGxmOoN_1NO81wIsRi2SJm9xOpgE_B1WIQ6-_xDs-Sye1dW-BecpgshRY/s1600/20150331_083936.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikE80y08qgPvLItLYBiMI0dwBTMT1ipMnIxzDxLrl-N907Q5FJXSpA4sClU0jrr0H0crQjeGjsOMp47u1ue-eGxmOoN_1NO81wIsRi2SJm9xOpgE_B1WIQ6-_xDs-Sye1dW-BecpgshRY/s1600/20150331_083936.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsj7txDtDbl5yoTnXzLmECYsYmaPZb3mPjlU1M8TRnp1DhJiiIGcOMO8tam9C2bLwCO0H-HV2zERqP23D9m3Ye2YjKr6ZUIaSeg16wM3R4JdsInCPKS7X5LmFRUoO8wF_6bR51vb2xABE/s1600/20150331_083943.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsj7txDtDbl5yoTnXzLmECYsYmaPZb3mPjlU1M8TRnp1DhJiiIGcOMO8tam9C2bLwCO0H-HV2zERqP23D9m3Ye2YjKr6ZUIaSeg16wM3R4JdsInCPKS7X5LmFRUoO8wF_6bR51vb2xABE/s1600/20150331_083943.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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BTW, I apologise for the pics quality, my phone suddenly takes not as cool pics as a week ago, need to have it checked out. </div>
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Anyhoo, my hair LOVED all the products I used and ESPECIALLY loved the actual attention I gave it for a change. Complacency is officially out the window, I'm back in the hair journey saddle! Be sure to check out all the posts from <a href="http://www.savingourstrands.com/p/the-wash-day-experience.html" target="_blank">The Washday Experience</a> where we all learn something new every day.</div>
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Have a great Tuesday everybody! <b><span style="color: #660000;">AND HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY MOM! </span></b></div>
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Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02592618054090025991noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4211270544777292152.post-85934142481263246402015-03-30T09:26:00.000+02:002015-03-30T09:26:13.641+02:00Re-surging motivationHey there everyone.<br />
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I know that I have been missing for a while, and I apologise. I wasn't really motivated to blog as I wasn't really motivated to give my hair the 110% it needs and deserves. I have been in a rut as well as quite busy at work. My hair hasn't been feeling great, I feel like I need to get rid of about an inch as well. There have been days where I felt like cutting it all off and starting this whole hair journey business all over again from scratch. See, I just was not in a good place to blog about my hair.<br />
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The past couple of weeks I've been in London for a training course, and managed to find a whole lot of products that I've only ever read about, that aren't available in my country. I went a little nuts, to the point that I had to pay for excess baggage when I checked in for my flight home. Primarily due to all the new goodies I am now again looking forward to washdays and trying out new styles and following my regimen the way it should be followed.<br />
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The next few posts will thus also be a lot of experiments due to all the new products in my bathroom. Of course I focused on conditioners and deep conditioners and leave in conditioners, buying only what is unavailable in Namibia and focusing on products that fellow bloggers have raved about and that are almost universally loved by the hair blogosphere. So, 2015, or at least the next 6 months of it, is going to be all about new experiences with the tresses. I'm looking forward to sharing my experiences with you.<br />
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First things first though. Either today or tomorrow I am going to trim my ends. Nothing major, but my ends are really ratty and thin and awful and they need to GO. I'm planning to do that via a full wash and rollerset, with brand new shears.<br />
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Until then, have a great Monday!Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02592618054090025991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4211270544777292152.post-82346419239751137232014-11-26T15:00:00.000+02:002014-11-26T15:10:29.852+02:00Almost two months...Hey there everyone.<br />
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I just realised that I haven't written a blog post in over a month, almost two months actually, and I apologise for my disappearance. I have been feeling a disconnect to my hair. It's still breaking. And I'm exhausted trying to get it back on track. I am strongly considering simply putting it into box braids or twists this coming weekend and be done with it for the summer. I just can't deal anymore. Moisturising, protein treatments, minimal heat, nothing is working and helping. So I am kind of throwing in the towel and going to protective style through out the heat and humidity that is an African summer.<br />
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On another note, I told you ladies that I have started actually looking better after myself with the help of a dietitian and biokineticist. I had an evaluation yesterday and the results are in. Centimetres lost around my waist, lower abdomen and upper arms. Centimetres gained (muscle though, so yay!) around my chest. No change with my legs though, then again it doesn't surprise me, I have always had muscular calves and big thighs even when I was at my slimmest. 5.5 pounds lost, which sound like very little BUT I still did the happy dance yesterday because I shaved off a whole FIVE percent of BODY FAT!!!!! Which means that the scale is a bit of a liar, considering that clearly I've gained muscle. Don't believe the scale ladies!!<br />
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So here's my action plan for the majority of summer:<br />
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<b>"Forget" about my hair</b> - I am going to protective style using either box braids, twists or cornrows. This will also help to not stress about it during my workouts. Whilst in protective style, I'm going to moisturise like a crazy person using a spritz. Hopefully when fall hits, my hair will be in a much better condition than it is currently as well as actually be full APL. I will keep each protective style in for 4-6 weeks at a time, with a two week resting period in between. I'm sick and tired of struggling! And the most important reason - I don't want my hair interfering with my exercise regime anymore!<br />
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<b>Work out like a beast!</b> I recently moved to a new apartment complex. Right next to it they are in the process of building a small lifestyle centre which will include a gym. One of the incentives for new tenants was a 3 month gym voucher if you move in. So, apart from going to biokinetics 3 times a week, I plan to work out an additional 2-3 days a week in the gym right next to my apartment building. I plan to shave off at least an additional 3% body fat by January 2015 at least.<br />
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Right now I am very much focusing on shedding fat, gaining lean muscle and losing centimetres. The scale is not my friend and it actually depresses me, so I'm throwing away the scale. Besides, skinny girls look good in clothes. Fit girls look good naked. I wanna look good naked, lol. In addition, since it's summer, I am going to try and get to a swimming pool as much as I can. Swimming is an AWESOME full body workout, and it's way more fun than throwing the weights around. (Although I must admit, I do like strength training way more than cardio.)<br />
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<b>Not sabotage my diet during the festive season</b>. This is a tricky one. As it is summer here and the majority of us take our annual vacation time during December, there will be braai's (barbecues to my American lovelies) galore, so heaps and heaps of red meat (I'm African! There's no such thing as veggie burgers for us, lol), potato salad, garlic bread and cocktails. In addition to that, Christmas is only 4 weeks away, and we cook (and eat) like maniacs on Jesus' birthday. Which can be detrimental to ANY diet/eating plan.<br />
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So, first of all, I am going to substitute whiskey or scotch for all the sugar laden cocktails and ciders. It, along with vodka, has the lowest calorie count of all alcoholic drinks, especially if paired with water instead of some soda mix. Luckily I like whiskey and scotch, lol.<br />
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Secondly, I need to stick to my plan and routine as strictly as possible during the week, as the braai's and frivolity usually occur over weekends and thus I may indulge a little more than if I were cheating during the week.<br />
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Thirdly, I need to take charge of potato salads and make the German version instead of the traditional mayonnaise laden version. Because the German contains no additional fats like mayo but vinegar instead, its GI count is lower and thus healthier. But still yummy!<br />
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And lastly, I am going to incorporate smoothies as much as possible. It's refreshing and if self made one is assured of what you take into your body. Unfortunately Christmas day might be a big bust up to the diet. Then again, Christmas comes but once a year!<br />
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So, for the next few months I think I may focus a little more on my health and fitness and weight loss journey than my hair, I will however try to start writing wash day posts again, just to motivate myself regarding what's going on on top of my head.<br />
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What's everybody else's plans for the festive season and summer? And to my lovelies States side, what are your plans for the winter?<br />
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Have a good one!!<br />
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<br />Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02592618054090025991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4211270544777292152.post-21899292581533983942014-10-06T20:44:00.000+02:002014-10-06T20:44:20.222+02:00Long time sufferingHello there everyone.<br />
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Yes, I have been slightly absent. A big reason for that is the fact that I have been feeling a disconnect to my hair and my journey. I fear that I am right in the middle of a set back.<br />
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As I told you in my last post, I have been experience a lot of breakage and shedding and very little has helped. Out of frustration I went to my stylist and we snipped off a good inch. I thought that getting rid of super raggedy ends would help curb the breakage, but to alas, to no avail. Well, not none, I'm still struggling though. My hair is still struggling to hold moisture, even after I infused more protein into my washes after recommendations from fellow bloggers and readers. I am experiencing demarcation breakage despite only being 6 weeks post. I am THIS close to relaxing my hair again and this time doing it myself and thus knowing that I'm doing it right. On the other hand I feel like starting a serious wigging or sew in regimen asap to hide my hair so as to help me retain some freaking growth. I am at the end of my wits.<br />
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What makes it harder is that for the past 4 weeks I have actually been on a much more active programme. I have been working with a dietitian and a biokineticicist, the former having me on a personalized eating programme and the latter grilling me on a personalized exercise regime. It's only been 4 weeks but so far I have dropped 9 cm (approximately 4 inches) around my waist and 3 pounds, so I am not going to quit. But it is not the greatest for keeping the hair in a good condition, my scalp and hair HATE sweat. So, Fitness Fridays ladies - HELP please. I work in a very staunch environment so airdrying after washing after a workout does not work, my hair becomes a hot frizzy pouffy mess, especially as we are entering summer my side and the humidity levels are already ridiculous.<br />
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Seems like my post today is a lot of moaning and bitching, but I would really like some advice, would be much appreciated.<br />
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On the plus side of my life, I performed on stage for the first time in years at Song Night, a spring board event here in Windhoek for aspiring singers. I am not planning to sing professionally, but after having such good feedback and feeling amazing after my performance, I know that I will do it again. Here's a little pic of me on stage, unfortunately I could not upload a video clip. Hopefully next time I will have the foresight to have a clip in a suitable format.<br />
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Well, that's all from me for today. A lot of complaining and feeling despondent about my hair. Feeling hopeful and determined regarding my weight loss. And feeling proud about my debut on stage.<br />
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Have a GREAT week everyone. Till next time!Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02592618054090025991noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4211270544777292152.post-35814141567044831852014-08-28T17:01:00.001+01:002014-08-28T17:01:30.553+01:00I don't know what's wrong!Hey there y'all<br />
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Today is the wash day post where I am seeking advice, desperately.<br />
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As y'all know, I relaxed my hair 2 weeks ago. Well, I had a wash day this past weekend and all kinds of bad things were happening.<br />
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Firstly - my hair was SO underprocessed that I am strongly considering doing a corrective relaxer once I'm 6 weeks post. Secondly, during EVERY stage - detangling, prepoo, shampoo, DC, rollersetting - the breakage was heart attack inducing! The last time I experienced breakage of this magnitude was BEFORE I started my healthy hair journey two and a half years ago. Thirdly, my hair is DRY! I have been TRYING since wash day to incorporate more moisture, to no avail. And lastly, I can simply TOUCH my hair and I end up with small broken strands in my hands. The shedding has also reached new levels of ridiculous. In total (sorry for the lack of pics) I lost a ball of hair the size of a plum! (sobbing over keyboard)<br />
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Quick recap of how wash day actually went:<br />
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1. Finger detangled my curls from my flexi rod set whilst applying my prepoo of Tresemme Naturals Moisturising Conditioner mixed with a lot of sunflower oil.<br />
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2. Left prepoo on for a good 4 hours, my day became hectic.<br />
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3. Shampoo with Tresemme Naturals Moisturising Shampoo, which had my scalp on fire for some reason!<br />
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4. DC with ORS Replenishing Conditioner for about 30 minutes.<br />
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5. Applied leave ins of MorrocanOil Leave In Treatment and TCB Bone Strait.<br />
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6. Proceeded to rollerset, and then left hair to air dry in the rollers.<br />
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4 hours of airdrying later I removed the rollers, wrapped my hair and went to bed. My hair looked smooth (I am an expert roller setter) but felt dry, full of static, it actually felt like straw. Since wash day I have been trying to moisturise and seal, using the D&L Amla Legend Wrapping Cream and coconut oil. My hair still feels like crap. It looks okay, but you ladies know looks are nothing compared to the feel and health of our strands.<br />
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ADVICE PLEASE!<br />
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<a href="http://www.savingourstrands.com/" title="The Wash Day Experience"><img alt="The Wash Day Experience" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWZHAAxpEECAkvLztEobohyphenhyphen9mOE6ilTbEISXlXESHr4AA72KB7YIX-QmSt6_HxrFJa7VcgmUGUzdSj0ywGRPxl1ANB0-ee3uN12d3e6sQ5C3pfQFqk5hi4BJlCnJldnNNIhrZf1DoprvM/s1600/The+wash+Day+experience+badge+%282%29.jpg" style="border: none;" /></a><br />
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(Going to go sob into a glass of wine now)Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02592618054090025991noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4211270544777292152.post-50944979415144508892014-08-20T12:25:00.001+01:002014-08-20T12:25:46.374+01:00Flexirods: The debut!Hey there everybody<br />
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So I know that I have been a little absent, but I blame the crazy flu that has been doing the rounds here in my neck of the woods, as well as a pretty hectic work schedule. I am also trying to finalise my travel arrangements so that I can go to on my mini European vacation without worries or stress. </div>
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Hair wise a couple of things have happened though. I'm slightly pressed for time so please bare with me. </div>
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I had my hair touched up at 29 weeks post. It was during the time that I was sick and I simply could NOT handle my thick new growth whilst battling influenza. So I went to a salon, and lucky for me, it being a Wednesday morning, they were empty and I could be helped immediately. It wasn't my regular salon that I went to. Because I was booked off and lying at home sick I went to one that was around the corner of my apartment and that always looked very professional. I took my own relaxer - the ORS Olive Oil for Girls No Lye Relaxer Kit. I was a complete pain in the butt too, giving instructions as they work. Unfortunately (I don't know why this happened) I did not get the results I wanted. This salon is never seeing me again and here's why:</div>
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1. Hair was a tangled mess after neutralizing AND conditioning. I insisted on detangling it myself because this woman wanted to start ripping through the knots!! She gave me a stink eye for saying I want to detangle myself and for that ALONE they will not receive my business again. </div>
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2. She didn't do a proper job smoothing the relaxer. I did not want texlaxed hair and that's what I ended up with. Yes, it's still more manageable than my natural roots but now I STILL have two textures to contend with. And in about 6 weeks, it'll be three textures. I don't have the patience! Ain't nobody got time for that! I have self relaxed before using that exam same kit and I managed to get my hair processed to the desired level. So, there's another reason why I won't go back. </div>
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3. They didn't have a decent leave in conditioner that they could apply prior to rollersetting. At this point I wanted to rifle through their products and simply pick one! I even asked to then simply apply a Wella serum that was standing on the counter and I was promptly rebuffed and told that serums are applied after blow drying. EXCUSE ME??? It's MY dang hair! I know what it likes! Don't try to educate me when I'm a FIRST TIME customer! </div>
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4. Lastly I had to BEG them to apply a heat protectant prior to blow drying and finishing off with the GHD flat iron. BEG! Can y'all believe this nonsense?! </div>
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At least my hair looked nice walking out and the resulting blowout lasted over a week and remained soft and moisturised. But they will not be seeing me again.<br />
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Last week I realised that my hair needs a serious shot of protein. And I was sick of having pin straight hair. So I bought two packs of flexi rods and set myself up for wash day. Here's a brief synopsis of how it went:</div>
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<li>Pre-poo using Dove Daily Conditioning Treatment for Colour Treated hair. Left on overnight covered with a plastic showercap and scarf.</li>
<li>Shampoo using Avon Smooth as Silk shampoo containing silk proteins. I LIKE this shampoo. Hair felt clean without feeling stripped. </li>
<li>Instant condition with Dove Hair Fall Rescue conditioner. I don't like. Won't repurchase. No slip. Does not feel moisturising at all. </li>
<li>DC with ORS Replenishing Conditioner. Staple!</li>
<li>Put in leave in of Smooth as Silk Serum from Avon and proceeded to set with flexi rods for the first time ever. First mistake - I did not have enough rods. I need to buy at least 1 more pack of ten. Second mistake - hair started drying as I was rolling and I did not re-wet it sufficiently so my ends came out a little wonky. Third mistake - not taking time into consideration. I had two birthday parties to attend later in the day and although I used my hand held dryer on the medium setting to speed the drying process along, some parts were still damp when I started to unroll which also led to wonky frizzy ends. </li>
<li>After almost 5 hours (washing, setting and drying time) I was already late so I pinned up the back and created a semi faux hawk, which everybody loved. And I still have curls today :-)</li>
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So, lessons learned - hair must be soaking wet when setting on flexi rods to ensure a smooth set and don't do a flexi rod set when pressed for time as the hair will not be sufficiently dry. Also practice makes perfect. This will NOT be the last set. Here's the results of my very first flexi rod set:<br />
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What was the biggest lesson y'all have learned this week hair wise? </div>
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Have a cracking Wednesday!</div>
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Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02592618054090025991noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4211270544777292152.post-55581701518018477782014-08-11T16:04:00.001+01:002014-08-11T16:04:50.902+01:00No more splits!Heya y'all!<br />
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Yeah, I've been a little quiet, partly because I have been sick as a dog! I will update y'all on EVERYTHING bit by bit.<br />
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Right now though I am informing y'all that I am joining Jeni from <a href="http://www.justgrowalready.com/2014/08/30-days-without-split-ends.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+JustGrowAlready+%28Just+Grow+Already%21%29" target="_blank">JustGrowAlready </a>in the 30 Days without Split Ends Challenge. I haven't been part of a hair challenge in a long time and I think this will help me get back on track where my hair care is concerned.<br />
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The rules are simple. Apart from the sign up it basically says that one should simply change one's regimen in at least one way to help reduce/prevent split ends.<br />
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Here's some of the changes I'm going to make:<br />
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1. ZERO direct heat for the rest of the month. Thus no blow drying, no flat ironing and NO going to the salon!<br />
2. Intensify deep conditioning by doing overnight prepoo sessions and by adding sunflower oil (ceramides) to all conditioners.<br />
3. Protective styling as much as possible. As much as I love showing off my length (come on! I never could before) I need to step up my pin up and braiding game to protect what I have gained.<br />
4. Have a dusting at the end of the month if necessary.<br />
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I am hoping that the results are that not only am I rejuvenated in my journey but that I can enter summer being past APL.<br />
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What changes would you make to your regimen?<br />
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Happy Monday!Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02592618054090025991noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4211270544777292152.post-73179855969629235262014-07-23T15:56:00.001+01:002014-07-23T15:56:41.756+01:00A second pair of hands...This past wash day went down without a hitch! One thing I realised (again) is that my hair LOVES deep conditioning, and I mean, intense deep conditioning!<br />
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Being 28 weeks post (woo hooooooo!!) is not the easiest thing, so I am keeping my hair straight for the most part, protecting it as I go along and then giving it super love on wash day and so far, even though the heat usage have been more than say 6 months ago, my hair has not been hating me. I am becoming a little bored with my pony tail and buns though...So, I've decided that I going to switch it up a bit and give it some Greek rebel flavor:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs2R2kkDz2NBouqv3J8skRqFIl1Y9XCHZ7L1qQ9lIi8jeNEEEbCuBiUIphdl20TIm2pbMG0MhUM4T8c1Timc8h9DHb-gwVE0kuZIdwPJ8TuxoliMNcxOOcK05G68pK2cd2C2qnP7TSzvA/s1600/naevia2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs2R2kkDz2NBouqv3J8skRqFIl1Y9XCHZ7L1qQ9lIi8jeNEEEbCuBiUIphdl20TIm2pbMG0MhUM4T8c1Timc8h9DHb-gwVE0kuZIdwPJ8TuxoliMNcxOOcK05G68pK2cd2C2qnP7TSzvA/s1600/naevia2.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Naevia - Spartacus: War of the Damned</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL4HJkgySuN9c2plNaDtxViaxvTClUH_jQEdSKG4Nx47L4HsdBjXmXlMsy3vp71fWRnp6OcM2IRL2kEwUM8Vsu23J7rY7GRUPW59C8rmk765ZKcrbRu5vypElD5zc8G4fu7Hf2PHCwdgY/s1600/naevia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL4HJkgySuN9c2plNaDtxViaxvTClUH_jQEdSKG4Nx47L4HsdBjXmXlMsy3vp71fWRnp6OcM2IRL2kEwUM8Vsu23J7rY7GRUPW59C8rmk765ZKcrbRu5vypElD5zc8G4fu7Hf2PHCwdgY/s1600/naevia.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Naevia from Spartacus. I still need to perfect the trio of flat cornrows for this style. And I need to just get a clip in or two give volume to the ponytail part of the style. </td></tr>
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So, wash day again took a long time but this time it didn't feel like torture. I applied my prepoo of Tresemme Naturals Moisturising Conditioner mixed with a LOT of sunflower oil (ceramides!! Lovely ceramides!) with my hair in about nine sections. I then covered my hair with a plastic cap and a scarf and out the door I went. I felt a little self conscious with my head covered whilst in the shop but then I remembered - this is Africa baby! No one cares! Especially not if they can't see what's happening underneath the pretty scarf, lol.<br />
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I then headed to my friend's house - we decided to collaborate on Sunday lunch and do our hair together. So when I got there I started with my dish (a thai inspired chicken stir fry) with my hair STILL being conditioned by the prepoo. When I finally rinsed it off I think two hours have gone by.<br />
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In any event, I then shampooed with my Organics Shampoo for Dry/Damaged Hair. My hair felt SO soft and fluffy! The prepoo really gave it a big shot of moisture. I then applied my DC of ORS Replenishing Conditioner, my hair still in sections. I again covered my hair with the plastic cap and scarf to trap heat and then we proceeded to have Sunday lunch. After that, I treated my friend's hair. She has a type 2c curl, but her hair is very thin. She likes to joke that she only has 3 hairs on her head. So deep conditioning treatments after a shampoo leaves her with oily looking strands. But her ends started looking like straw. It wasn't split but it was clearly very dry. So I grabbed her treatment mask, which was the <a href="http://www.loreal-paris.co.uk/fibrology/" target="_blank">L'Oreal Fibrology</a> Moisture Masque, mixed in a good two table spoons of glycerin and applied to her dry hair like one would a prepoo. Shen shampooed with the Fibrology shampoo and instant conditioned with the Fibrology conditioner. Her niece Andrea then roller set her hair, which she then left to air dry in the rollers. Once dry Andrea flat ironed her hair and she was happy as a clam! The dryness that she had the last two inches of her hair was GONE, her hair was super shiny and it was flowy and not oily or heavy at all.<br />
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I then proceeded to rinse my own DC after sitting with it for 90 minutes (it is such a staple, it is not even funny! ORS should bring out 1.5 liter bottles of the stuff!) and then Andrea roller set my hair as well after I applied Avon Soft as Silk Serum with silk proteins as my leave in and protectant. Since I make a point of detangling at every step she had it quite easy despite the 28 weeks of new growth. She was gentle but fast! I lost next to no hair during the process, but she was still DONE in TWENTY minutes!!!! Remember, it took me TWO HOURS last week! I give credit to her fast hands AND the fact that my hair was like butter after the two intense deep conditioning sessions.<br />
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I left my hair to air dry in the rollers after which Andrea flat ironed it with a GHD straightener. My hair felt awesome!! Strong, soft, no breakage and ready for the week to come. I neglected to take pics on Sunday and I promise to remember my next wash day. Point is though - even with the heat, the fact that my hair was so super conditioned cancelled out the potential heat damage from the straightening process.<br />
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Regardless, I realised that having an extra pair of hands can really pay off, because even though the wash day stretched through out the day I didn't feel like I was torturing myself. The second thing I realised is that I should NEVER EVER skimp on the deep conditioning. My hair has been happy all week so far, and I don't see a change in the status quo any time soon even though my next wash day is only this coming weekend. The last thing I realised is that I might continue my relaxer stretch until summer at least. And only THEN decide whether I am going to relax or not. I'm kind of proud of myself for stretching for so long already, so I figure I might as well see how long I can go. Who knows, I might decide in September to touch up. I might decide to continue stretching. I might decide to start transitioning. The one thing I know for sure is that I need to stock up on my DC's and I may NEVER wash my hair without deep conditioning it, that now officially equates to a hair sin for me.<br />
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How has everyone else's wash days been? What have you realised is the most crucial step in your wash day routine?<br />
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<a href="http://www.savingourstrands.com/" title="The Wash Day Experience"><img alt="The Wash Day Experience" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWZHAAxpEECAkvLztEobohyphenhyphen9mOE6ilTbEISXlXESHr4AA72KB7YIX-QmSt6_HxrFJa7VcgmUGUzdSj0ywGRPxl1ANB0-ee3uN12d3e6sQ5C3pfQFqk5hi4BJlCnJldnNNIhrZf1DoprvM/s1600/The+wash+Day+experience+badge+%282%29.jpg" style="border: none;" /></a><br />
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Have a happy Wednesday y'all, we're over the hump!Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02592618054090025991noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4211270544777292152.post-38292253916492563942014-07-23T14:50:00.000+01:002014-07-23T14:50:26.237+01:00Sunshine Blogger AwardSo, I have been nominated for the Sunshine Blogger Award!! I love these! It encapsulates the randomness that is me and parts of this blog. And I love talking about myself so there's that, lol.<br />
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Shout out to Yvette of <a href="http://hardmashonatype.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Hard Mashona Type</a>, thank you oodles for the nomination.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9vLRBxyxk8swX2Yx840r1r5Y9I8cIyZiXdSsQImpFf4KhgyEnvML7FTu2p_yH5G5RBnZuMiTpnIyPomNDIBT1TwFnPj0UVSq78arDwOa1k4hA_KGPIKYWszjEye92DMmHycKXNAlZJvI/s1600/sunshine+blogger+award.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9vLRBxyxk8swX2Yx840r1r5Y9I8cIyZiXdSsQImpFf4KhgyEnvML7FTu2p_yH5G5RBnZuMiTpnIyPomNDIBT1TwFnPj0UVSq78arDwOa1k4hA_KGPIKYWszjEye92DMmHycKXNAlZJvI/s1600/sunshine+blogger+award.jpg" height="410" width="640" /></a></div>
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Now, there are a number of steps that must be followed in the accepting of the award, the first being to tag the blogger who nominated me (see above).<br />
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The second would be to share 11 random facts as requested from Yvette, and here goes:<br />
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<b>1. Which countries have you been to?</b><br />
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Well, I'm not as well travelled yet as I want to be, but I have been privileged so far to have been to The United States, South Africa, Malawi and my home country of Namibia. Germany and England don't count as I have only ever seen the insides of their airports. I am going on a little Eurotrip later this year so the list shall be growing in the very near future.<br />
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<b>2. If you were a member of the opposite sex for a day, what is the first thing you would do?</b><br />
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This question is DEEP! Well, I already have a very masculine energy for a girl so there's a quite a lot that would take up my day - I would be the fly on the wall and ask my male friends all the questions that they would not answer if a girl asked it. But the FIRST thing I would do??? Pee standing up!<br />
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<b>3. Which languages do you speak?</b><br />
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English and Afrikaans, the latter being my mother tongue.<br />
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<b>4. What is your favourite social media platform?</b><br />
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To browse - Pinterest. To interact - Facebook. To rant and rave - Twitter.<br />
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<b>5. How did you and your best friend meet?</b><br />
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Through mutual friends on the social scene.<br />
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<b>6. If you were having a dinner party and could invite anyone, alive or dead, who would you invite?</b><br />
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This is not easy. Well, I could answer with the usual responses of Nelson Mandela, JFK, Ghandi, MLK, Bill Gates, Oprah, but that has been done to death,it has actually become a bit trite. SO, at my dinner party would be my real friends and then I would add to the mix Emma Stone, Jennifer Lawrence, Miles Teller, Rihanna, Theo James, Dylan O'Brien, Jon Stewart, Robert Downey Jr, Melissa McCarthy and Mike Shinoda from Linkin Park. THAT would be a PARTY!!!<br />
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<b>7. Dogs or cats?</b><br />
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Both, but right now I have none. I don't have a yard and I will not subject any pet to apartment living.<br />
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<b>8. Favourite form of exercise?</b><br />
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Dancing. But when I am actually working out, I like to mix up a bit of cardio with weight and resistance training.<br />
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<b>9. What food do you have to be forced to eat?</b><br />
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Uhhhhmmmm...nothing. Okay wait, I'm lying. I DO NOT eat tripe and offal. Other than that - bring it on! Food is good. I like food.<br />
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<b>10. If you had an unlimited budget, where would you go for your next vacation?</b><br />
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Unlimited budget? I would do a tour of the fashion capitals of the world and go on a shopping spree! I'm talking New York, Los Angeles, Paris, Milan, London, Tokyo. Of course whilst in those cities I would do more than just shop, I would do EVERYTHING else as well. And then to rest I would go to Santorini, Greece and lie on the lily white beaches for a week or two before returning to reality (with a whole new wardrobe and couture galore!)<br />
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<b>11. If you won the lottery, what would be the fist thing that you spend, invest or donate it on?</b><br />
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Honestly, if I won the lottery tomorrow the very first thing I would do is scream my head off, take out my bestie and party like a crazy person. THEN I would pay off all of my own debts first, and then I would send my folks a big chunk of money so that they could cover what they want to. After that I would buy myself a new car and then I would go house hunting. Property is ridiculously expensive in Windhoek, Namibia, so buying a house would definitely be VERY high on the priority list.<br />
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There you have it folks!!!<br />
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The next step is to nominate 11 other bloggers worthy of recognition. Here are my nominees:<br />
<ul>
<li>Bee of <a href="http://glamlushhair.blogspot.com/">glamlushhair.blogspot.com</a></li>
<li>Melissa from <a href="http://haircaregy.blogspot.com/">haircaregy.blogspot.com</a></li>
<li>Neisha from <a href="http://www.neishajo.com/">www.neishajo.com</a></li>
<li>Andrea from <a href="http://www.lengtheninglocks.blogspot.com/">www.lengtheninglocks.blogspot.com</a></li>
<li>Tomi from <a href="http://tomesedition.blogspot.com/">http://tomesedition.blogspot.com</a> </li>
<li>Candice from <a href="http://myhealthyhairdiary.blogspot.com/">myhealthyhairdiary.blogspot.com</a></li>
<li>Southern Girl from <a href="http://www.pecanpieandpincurls.com/">http://www.pecanpieandpincurls.com/</a></li>
<li>Harlem from <a href="http://harlemhhj.blogspot.com/">http://harlemhhj.blogspot.com/</a></li>
<li>Lydz from <a href="http://crowningglorymine.blogspot.com/">http://crowningglorymine.blogspot.com/</a></li>
<li>Jackie from <a href="http://adventuresofanappychica.blogspot.com/">http://adventuresofanappychica.blogspot.com/</a></li>
<li>Jas-Sherese from <a href="http://lengthylovelylocks.blogspot.com/">http://lengthylovelylocks.blogspot.com/</a></li>
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And the final step is to figure out 11 questions for each of them to answer. Here goes:</div>
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1. Your favourite song at the moment and why?</div>
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2. TV show that you would recommend to anyone to binge watch?</div>
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3. What injustice in this world makes your insides burn with rage and sadness?</div>
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4. What is your hidden talent?</div>
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5. What is your guilty pleasure?</div>
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6. Describe one room in your dream home - remember money is in abundance in this little architectural fantasy. </div>
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7. What was your personal motivation behind the decision to go on a healthy hair journey?</div>
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8. Who is your favourite Disney princess?</div>
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9. What is your favourite city in the world?</div>
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10. How long is your hair right now and what is your ultimate hair length goal?</div>
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11. Who is your favourite Avenger? </div>
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ENJOY!!!<br />
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PS Anyone else who feels like taking on my questions, you are MORE than welcome, I LOVE getting to know my readers and fellow bloggers.Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02592618054090025991noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4211270544777292152.post-43522375879068913512014-07-17T15:58:00.001+01:002014-07-17T16:11:44.604+01:00I did it myself...and it was a struggle.Hola everybody. Yes, I know, I have been "off the air" for a bit. Multiple reasons - for example I went to a workshop in the bush cut off from civilization. During that week I realised that I truly am a city girl and NOT a country girl. I like the outdoors as much as anyone but can we limit it to 2 days and can we have wifi?<br />
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Also, the Soccer World Cup is finally over and thus life can return to normal. Yes, I am a rugby girl, but for this World Cup I decided to strap in for the ride and just enjoy. And it has been oodles of fun, this I admit.<br />
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In any event, regarding hair related things, I have been feeling a bit of a disconnect when it comes to my hair. I still do everything that is required on a daily basis - I moisturise and seal, I sleep with a satin scarf AND satiny pillows, I wear my hair in a protective style 95% of the time (either a French or Dutch braid, or a bun or a high pony) and I'm gentle. What I haven't really been doing is my usual wash day routines. Being 27 weeks post (longest stretch EVER) wash days are NO fun. So, I have been going to the salon relatively regularly since I found a stylist that actually cares about the health of my hair. That might also be the reason why I have been feeling a little disconnected...<br />
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In any event, last week I was sick (bronchitis) and didn't go to work for a few days. Day 3 of lying at home I decided to wash my hair so that I can feel better even though I wasn't healthy yet. So, I tackled 27 weeks of new growth, which is NO joke. I might actually do a touch up end of this month. I even find styling a chore with hair being as thick as it is now. At the same time I am fighting a bit of an internal battle...I've been surviving so long without getting a touch up, maybe I can push for 7 months...or a 10 months...or a year...or forever?? I don't know...<br />
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Anyhoo, I prepooed with a mixture of oils and conditioners - I basically decided to FINISH all those little bottles that only had about a 5th of product left in them. So I mixed up some Dark&Lovely Repairing Mask DC, some cheapie L'Oreal Mint & Cucumber Conditioner, some Coconut Oil, shook it up and then applied to my detangled hair in quadrants, braiding each quadrant so as to prevent further tangling. And BOY does my new growth LOVE single strand knots, d-d-d-d-damn!<br />
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Anyhoo, I then shampooed with <a href="http://www.unilever.co.za/brands-in-action/detail/Organics/294612/" target="_blank">Organics Shampoo for Dry/Damaged Hair</a> quadrant by quadrant. If I didn't do this I probably would have ended up with a big ball of hair in my hand. Thank the hairgods that breakage was minimal and shedding was also not a problem. I then conditioned with ORS Replenishing Conditioner. I cannot talk enough about how much I love this conditioner. I deep conditioned for about 15-25 minutes. I then rinsed and then blotted the quadrants with my terry cloth towel until it wasn't dripping wet anymore.<br />
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I applied my leave in of MorroccanOil Leave In treatment and then detangled my hair quadrant by quadrant in preparation for roller setting. OMG!!! Now, THIS is why I have been going to the salon. The roller setting process alone took TWO hours!!!! Two hours of my life! Spent on getting what seems like a gazillion rollers in my hair, pulling it taught, stretching the roots whilst being gentle. Whilst rolling my hair was drying, so every time that I tackle a new section I would spray it with my water and Avon Quick Touch Leave In Conditioner mix. Hair needs to be wet whilst being placed in the roller otherwise you end up with a frizzed up hot mess.<br />
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After FINALLY being done rollersetting it was starting to get late and I was not in the mood to go to bed in the morning hours only. So I whipped out my hair dryer and dried my hair using the cool air setting. Once my hair was dry I spritzed on my Tresseme Heat Protectant and used the blow dryer's heat on my roots. Even though the rollers stretched it, the roots were still very thick and not easy for my to handle so using the heat to stretch it a little more I can actually handle my own hair. When I was done my arms were killing me but at least my hair was clean, soft and felt strong. I cross wrapped my hair after applying a little Amla Legend 1001 Oils Wrapping Lotion and applied my satin scarf and then I crashed HARD.<br />
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This coming weekend I am planning to actually properly PLAN my wash day so that I can do a good job WITHOUT it taking my SIX hours! I actually have some honey and Apple Cider Vinegar in my kitchen cupboard so I am planning to incorporate one of them in my next wash day, just haven't decided which one yet.<br />
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<a href="http://www.savingourstrands.com/" title="The Wash Day Experience"><img /></a>Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02592618054090025991noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4211270544777292152.post-4743363367634830172014-06-12T12:38:00.000+01:002014-06-12T12:38:05.196+01:00Knots and matting hell!Hey there everybody. I have had the wash day from hell this past Saturday. My hair is behaving itself now, but trust me, my weekend was NO fun. Except for Sunday evening, which included a live show of Trevor Noah.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJEv0V0P3VA5JbAMREuzOc5d72jEXOUIH8g-jISzwkk246j0L87ylaI9Ms451W0PcWTwPneyxVs_xfdjZdwVVo4foeVC5EbTgeHJBVB3EraVZxS3X4dsphDNxAXkIOaUib42LjTSjeFAg/s1600/Windhoek-20140523-00239.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJEv0V0P3VA5JbAMREuzOc5d72jEXOUIH8g-jISzwkk246j0L87ylaI9Ms451W0PcWTwPneyxVs_xfdjZdwVVo4foeVC5EbTgeHJBVB3EraVZxS3X4dsphDNxAXkIOaUib42LjTSjeFAg/s1600/Windhoek-20140523-00239.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Twists still looking cute</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjimq7FgX8WpUGKig277CatWIrFAJi6c6b9SW2OLcVCalJNo1PTZUdzEaEGQRAvSdO42Hw1txdl5pTXwCrxsjKZWhDBJkBb9dCUk6ld9zxlD5qKsrpycIl0xLiSMfhkz9Vajt3z20aKap4/s1600/Windhoek-20140603-00271.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjimq7FgX8WpUGKig277CatWIrFAJi6c6b9SW2OLcVCalJNo1PTZUdzEaEGQRAvSdO42Hw1txdl5pTXwCrxsjKZWhDBJkBb9dCUk6ld9zxlD5qKsrpycIl0xLiSMfhkz9Vajt3z20aKap4/s1600/Windhoek-20140603-00271.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Twists reaching expiration date. I got bored AND a lot of growth, so they didn't look neat anymore. </td></tr>
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As y'all know, I had twists installed at the end of April and on Friday I decided that their expiration date has arrived. So I got home, grabbed my coconut oil, water spritzer, Tresseme Naturals conditioner, a pair of scissors and a plastic bag for all the synthetic hair that I'm going to remove. Friends have been informed that I am unavailable for any Friday night shenanigans and I mad myself comfy in front of the TV. Good thing that the Friday night TV line up doesn't suck - Intelligence, Almost Human and the grandaddy of good tv - Game of Thrones.<br />
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I began taking out the twists one by one and once I've removed about 4-6, I would concentrate on detangling that section of hair, using the coconut oil and conditioner and water and then twist it up before moving on to the next section. I don't know what happened - the last time I removed twists the process went rather smoothly and I lost very little hair, whereas this time I lost a hairball the size of a golfball. Murphy decided that my house was a good place to visit - <b>SO MANY KNOTS, SO MUCH MATTING!!! </b>I have no idea where I screwed up as my process was the same as last time...<br />
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In any event, I spent the whole night trying to be as gentle as possible, after Game of Thrones I even watched Penny Dreadful (I still don't know if I like this show...opinions out there?) and then I dove into my DVD collections and watched Thelma &Louise and Titanic, all whilst trying to get all the twists out and not cause unnecessary breakage. I finally passed out at 5 in the morning on Saturday, <b>STILL </b>not done, but after <b>ELEVEN </b>hours, I could not keep my eyes open anymore.<br />
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The Saturday morning I woke up at 10 o'clock, after about 5 hours of sleep and dove back into my hair. i <b>FINALLY </b>had everything out at noon, and <b>ONLY </b>because my bestie rocked and helped me with the ones at my crown.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiadDKUCRm4BKsixcZLS9TyKAf7laaKDtG7JJxxG6_Xx7GoubmGd7mJ4mbuNj402auMPFdr1yj_KjDutcx1sgABA6N2pxmd9CwWYvECOg6dn3pQm-wLQ-0IP4CPxL-khurygAuImkIG51I/s1600/Windhoek-20140607-00276+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiadDKUCRm4BKsixcZLS9TyKAf7laaKDtG7JJxxG6_Xx7GoubmGd7mJ4mbuNj402auMPFdr1yj_KjDutcx1sgABA6N2pxmd9CwWYvECOg6dn3pQm-wLQ-0IP4CPxL-khurygAuImkIG51I/s1600/Windhoek-20140607-00276+%25281%2529.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">See the look of frustration and sadness??!! All twists out, hair mostly detangled, about to receive its prepoo. So much matting!! Blegh!</td></tr>
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Although I made a point of detangling small sections of hair, I could not get all the knots out. So I decided to to prepoo with the rest of the coconut oil and the conditioner in the hope that it would soften the knots so that I can have an easier time getting rid of them. Prepoo lasted a good 2 hours.<br />
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I then shampooed with Tresemme Naturals Shampoo. It may be low in sulfates but it lathers beautifully, without being stripping. I then instant conditioned with the Tresemme Naturals Conditioner and then proceeded to DC with ORS HAIRepair Nourishing Conditioner, for a good 90 minutes. I then proceeded to rollerset, and proceeded to lose <b>ANOTHER </b>mini golf ball worth of hair! (Que TEARS of frustration) Being 23 weeks post relaxer is not an effing joke, this I tell y'all! And this is despite being gentle, using my most trustworthy products!<br />
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I got myself some faux curlformers and when my hair was halfway dry in my regular rollers I decided I'm in the mood for real curls. It was my very first attempt at using curl formers, and the installation process wasn't too bad. After putting them all in, I left it to airdry completely. The packs I bought didn't have enough long curlformers to I struggled a little bit with my ends. I might try it again, but I need to buy another pack so that I have enough long ones.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKwml676fNDBWHgphfdIXpCSrdhrM_4ovcVbDznsX4jIJqTUx6gHXhWWfS2tD1jWSGnRTOFMHD3bef0O5NnlR2o5viztOILQAI-dWQma0pFj9mZSbKJWgzFXlj4_ZYlqQCRbB0lknjfy4/s1600/Windhoek-20140607-00280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKwml676fNDBWHgphfdIXpCSrdhrM_4ovcVbDznsX4jIJqTUx6gHXhWWfS2tD1jWSGnRTOFMHD3bef0O5NnlR2o5viztOILQAI-dWQma0pFj9mZSbKJWgzFXlj4_ZYlqQCRbB0lknjfy4/s1600/Windhoek-20140607-00280.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">End sticking out at places where the formers weren't long enough for my hair. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNVxXIwDk9GRDDE1uvusvYtP8OSPvpPwTmmiHgMMwyP96MTSGE8DkYx9BJ-dflmE19Ix3CXlYreIyd6tlgxAo2FcMpusK_YClvFgXYKU8F9vnNOT6sJ-SktSTVaxAs87L-M0LEwQC9O_c/s1600/Windhoek-20140607-00277.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNVxXIwDk9GRDDE1uvusvYtP8OSPvpPwTmmiHgMMwyP96MTSGE8DkYx9BJ-dflmE19Ix3CXlYreIyd6tlgxAo2FcMpusK_YClvFgXYKU8F9vnNOT6sJ-SktSTVaxAs87L-M0LEwQC9O_c/s1600/Windhoek-20140607-00277.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The roots are PUFF CITY!! </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJJzBBl_L46yZlNA2jA3i-DNmGXfoV5RZkRLu6GeXw9UvvpUgbGLCqtYURP_KnVxNaZbeGEF04bg270puHLo1MwOuA6bk4HGymzL4kdbnqPr7Zi17we5egUuLjRFJS-c4sgDvmTaK64vM/s1600/Windhoek-20140608-00281.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJJzBBl_L46yZlNA2jA3i-DNmGXfoV5RZkRLu6GeXw9UvvpUgbGLCqtYURP_KnVxNaZbeGEF04bg270puHLo1MwOuA6bk4HGymzL4kdbnqPr7Zi17we5egUuLjRFJS-c4sgDvmTaK64vM/s1600/Windhoek-20140608-00281.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Curls immediately after removal. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUAa6iBc7uDtD6L1Ngv4tPedSWe-q4-NZEBWFHVq-8VAib9w4Dif0DcEZj1zfiuovblPMoO8BN11xKTtqzm54xBKmz-dcBWn5OiVB6LQFSBJYQKxh_KWY0TsZ9YyuR1FY7uV_MS90ViK0/s1600/Windhoek-20140608-00282.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUAa6iBc7uDtD6L1Ngv4tPedSWe-q4-NZEBWFHVq-8VAib9w4Dif0DcEZj1zfiuovblPMoO8BN11xKTtqzm54xBKmz-dcBWn5OiVB6LQFSBJYQKxh_KWY0TsZ9YyuR1FY7uV_MS90ViK0/s1600/Windhoek-20140608-00282.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SO not impressed with those straight ends sticking out...</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitqHYpIWlWEdhdA3a0wXUJEH6r9cU9ADfASkt011O3gQ1qGZGiIQwtE38h0kL1XLWIsIp_irywjYfkbOCvC-m10jCfFX2ZE20nQuHld0IQEVgpzNWqq2HyNOIWkRf69Kw1H-fzynEd_tQ/s1600/Windhoek-20140608-00285.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitqHYpIWlWEdhdA3a0wXUJEH6r9cU9ADfASkt011O3gQ1qGZGiIQwtE38h0kL1XLWIsIp_irywjYfkbOCvC-m10jCfFX2ZE20nQuHld0IQEVgpzNWqq2HyNOIWkRf69Kw1H-fzynEd_tQ/s1600/Windhoek-20140608-00285.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some nice curls, some seriously wonky ones!</td></tr>
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I had a date the Sunday evening - Trevor Noah live at the National Theatre, so I thought the curls would be the perfect kind of cute. Unfortunately the curls fell and so I ended up pinning them up into a 50's style pinup with a couple of tendrils around my face.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge-7hDP68HZLS3L87YiCz8V7lJUk4oExOfb7v6T7vWa0_g3gu5zmhDK0W9-VYLEPzL4y0BjyUYKjWkndDhqU8QUCIlqYPhQSMKb6IbWr56kxkb2ZHdpqN0uvaiGAO40JbrlKdEOPIsADw/s1600/Windhoek-20140608-00287.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge-7hDP68HZLS3L87YiCz8V7lJUk4oExOfb7v6T7vWa0_g3gu5zmhDK0W9-VYLEPzL4y0BjyUYKjWkndDhqU8QUCIlqYPhQSMKb6IbWr56kxkb2ZHdpqN0uvaiGAO40JbrlKdEOPIsADw/s1600/Windhoek-20140608-00287.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Curls pinned back, looking good. </td></tr>
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Come Monday and I am <b>NOT </b>happy with my hair. So, I suck it up, and go to the salon. There they detangle my hair and lo and behold, <b>MORE KNOTS!!</b> They were so gentle though, it was awesome. Had me hair washed and deep conditioned with HEAT (that only happens at the salon, I don't own a dryer), rollerset and then blown out straight. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij7L6ksHDHao9X_yXcE_dNxunp1xwn_sMBT3n4OB2O1_xDVZ8giSR4zdMz7K6Jp1GXsdlsMmNp072cpFZ6zV2xKeRkRU72e-UvPDe4uKJy9f144dfPwHKgohAI_Lmnde1whvxErJ7Uc-Y/s1600/Windhoek-20140610-00292.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij7L6ksHDHao9X_yXcE_dNxunp1xwn_sMBT3n4OB2O1_xDVZ8giSR4zdMz7K6Jp1GXsdlsMmNp072cpFZ6zV2xKeRkRU72e-UvPDe4uKJy9f144dfPwHKgohAI_Lmnde1whvxErJ7Uc-Y/s1600/Windhoek-20140610-00292.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Almost 24 weeks post and swanging!</td></tr>
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I lost very little hair at the salon and today I'm sitting on 3 day old straight hair which is <b>STILL </b>soft and feels strong and moisturised. I'm 24 weeks post, the longest stretch of my life!! And I have decided to see what happens on my next wash day when I'm on the <b>DIY </b>train again. If the new growth kills my soul, then next week I will be doing a touch up. If it doesn't, then I might just keep stretching and I have no conceivable goal regarding how long I want to stretch. I'm just gonna see what happens. Hey, I might end up also transitioning. Or I'm gonna relax my hair next week! Who knows? The beauty of this being a <b>JOURNEY</b>. </div>
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I trust everyone else had a better DIY wash day than mine. It's almost the weekend, I'm looking forward to a much needed rest, so let's strap in everyone!</div>
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<a href="http://www.savingourstrands.com/" title="The Wash Day Experience"><img alt="The Wash Day Experience" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWZHAAxpEECAkvLztEobohyphenhyphen9mOE6ilTbEISXlXESHr4AA72KB7YIX-QmSt6_HxrFJa7VcgmUGUzdSj0ywGRPxl1ANB0-ee3uN12d3e6sQ5C3pfQFqk5hi4BJlCnJldnNNIhrZf1DoprvM/s1600/The+wash+Day+experience+badge+%282%29.jpg" style="border: none;" /></a></div>
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Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02592618054090025991noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4211270544777292152.post-69210010786996214102014-06-10T15:02:00.003+01:002014-06-10T15:02:30.531+01:00Being me - blog tag<div style="text-align: justify;">
Hey there y'all. </div>
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Yep, it has been a while. And for that I apologise. With my twists now out I will be updating more often though. For some reason I wanna talk more about hair the minute I am personally dealing with my hair more. </div>
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But that's for another post. Right now I'm gonna tell you a little more about me and my craziness. Thank you so much to the fabulous Candice from <a href="http://myhealthyhairdiary.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">myhealthyhairdiary</a> for the nomination tag!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOJKxVDeClKCOFeM0TZx3J-BGPR_5BbGMx6Si98oG9J6EvhJRmgdGC7_IJx6KNARsV1NEva2f8bt3inJhMSBLZ1nCksur4uCsuDM0wI3hEEEZSBIZi34wIu-rY8fZ-kRhiK-h2yPmZQHQ/s1600/20+questions.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOJKxVDeClKCOFeM0TZx3J-BGPR_5BbGMx6Si98oG9J6EvhJRmgdGC7_IJx6KNARsV1NEva2f8bt3inJhMSBLZ1nCksur4uCsuDM0wI3hEEEZSBIZi34wIu-rY8fZ-kRhiK-h2yPmZQHQ/s1600/20+questions.jpg" height="320" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>1. Are you named after someone?</b></div>
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Nope, not named after a person. However, I'm technically named after a Robin bird that came to sit on the window sill of my parents' bedroom when my mom was expecting me. the bird appeared and then I gave a swift kick and she saw it as a sign to name me Robyn . </div>
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<b>2. When was the last time you cried?</b></div>
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About two weeks ago, I had a very stupid fight with a friend, and when I'm THAT angry, the tears flow. </div>
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<b>3. Do you have kiddos?</b></div>
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Nope, not yet. It's still just me, myself and I. </div>
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<b>4. If you were another person, would be a friend of yourself?</b></div>
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I would like to think so. Although I think two of me would be a bit much for the world to handle, lol. </div>
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<b>5. Do you have a guilty pleasure?</b></div>
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The Facebook game "Criminal Case". It's the only game on Facebook that I play and it is awesome!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdC_atyq3SZAUhlukt6xsd3my4iFZfeXBMbV6l7gTtOS1g4JwAfHI7pVL3oLF3bS9IurjBquZODkqq8d4i10uOp2vxbI-EaUVO2IlNIlxWOUmjN__32Y-hH1Nz2t99TM-hfn2QvrV7NEo/s1600/GPD.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdC_atyq3SZAUhlukt6xsd3my4iFZfeXBMbV6l7gTtOS1g4JwAfHI7pVL3oLF3bS9IurjBquZODkqq8d4i10uOp2vxbI-EaUVO2IlNIlxWOUmjN__32Y-hH1Nz2t99TM-hfn2QvrV7NEo/s1600/GPD.png" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>6. Do you like handwriting?</b></div>
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Not really. My handwriting doesn't stink but since finishing law school, which included 4 hour handwritten exam sessions, I appreciate the fact that I don't have to do it any more in general life. </div>
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<b>7. What's your favourite cereal?</b></div>
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Honey Cheerios. Hands down!</div>
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<b>8. What's the first thing you notice about people?</b></div>
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Their eyes and their smile. When I officially meet them, their handshake, it tells me a lot about what kind of person they are. </div>
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<b>9. What's the colour of your eyes?</b></div>
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Depending on my mood, my state of health, the weather and my make-up, they range between chocolate brown and hazel. </div>
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<b>10. Scary movie or happy endings?</b></div>
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I love scary movies, especially if watching it on a date. Because then I get to act like a girly girl and bury my face into his chest, lol. But I love scary movies in general. I don't mind happy endings, I've just become a bit sceptical about them...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidJLczf0CQJR_Q_2z0Vdrwv9KMwv0h0tQoZi2ldR5PWh16AArxWpJ1XWjDv6LUz5SC06gNgoxOFuzq9zXB8DZnHhipThyphenhyphenjYQ8Bqk7NVxzQFUV7GVsZcIP6agUiW4BWjwhWcfFFv63FOMM/s1600/must-watch-horror-movies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidJLczf0CQJR_Q_2z0Vdrwv9KMwv0h0tQoZi2ldR5PWh16AArxWpJ1XWjDv6LUz5SC06gNgoxOFuzq9zXB8DZnHhipThyphenhyphenjYQ8Bqk7NVxzQFUV7GVsZcIP6agUiW4BWjwhWcfFFv63FOMM/s1600/must-watch-horror-movies.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>11. Favourite TV shows?</b></div>
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Scandal, Suits, Game of Thrones, Grey's Anatomy, Supernatural, Vampire Diaries, The Originals, Teen Wolf, Revenge, How I met your Mother, Almost Human, Intelligence, Friends, House, Bones. Oh wow, that's quite a few!!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4cMwbbirXKVi9Na3eoJhJhkGsE68jhsfQBENjNB28wvFU_AGHI7GiQs_NXXV9407EbfPxfiu-LrKAtSYVOmQn8Q_MFgqwpYDWygK40ppVEg2t1DdI35veC3pdMqo_xsiBytCAQ-a6lJ0/s1600/Game_of_Thrones_title_card.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4cMwbbirXKVi9Na3eoJhJhkGsE68jhsfQBENjNB28wvFU_AGHI7GiQs_NXXV9407EbfPxfiu-LrKAtSYVOmQn8Q_MFgqwpYDWygK40ppVEg2t1DdI35veC3pdMqo_xsiBytCAQ-a6lJ0/s1600/Game_of_Thrones_title_card.jpg" height="358" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>12. Summer or winter?</b></div>
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SUMMER! I'm a summer baby after all. On the other hand, I LOVE winter fashion. </div>
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<b>13. Hugs or kisses?</b></div>
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Kisses. Long, lingering, passionate, intense, breath taking, consuming, knee buckling kisses! (Friends and family get hugs though, lol)</div>
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<b>14. Do you have any special talents?</b></div>
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I can see a romantic relationship happen between two people whilst they're still in the "we're just friends" denial phase. I can't see how long it will last, I can't see if it will end, but I can see it start before they even realise that they're nuts about each other. </div>
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<b>15. Where were you born?</b></div>
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In Kimberley, South Africa. Literally surrounded by diamonds. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjaetj5W5YW2RBfp6NuXBjbwVufwc8OV01Iai7NoO8GZ-VgB1iVBrYysyfxZkHGgbCnKu_86PzpsCfmEdmF5oiJvRRzFi4sgXZSYa00RjVjjVabbpwgbWxzdLaIQ65P-LO45dRykz8am0/s1600/big-hole-kimberley-south-africa.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjaetj5W5YW2RBfp6NuXBjbwVufwc8OV01Iai7NoO8GZ-VgB1iVBrYysyfxZkHGgbCnKu_86PzpsCfmEdmF5oiJvRRzFi4sgXZSYa00RjVjjVabbpwgbWxzdLaIQ65P-LO45dRykz8am0/s1600/big-hole-kimberley-south-africa.png" height="268" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>16. What are your hobbies?</b></div>
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Playing board games, reading (a LOT), going to the drags (I love cars and I love the races), stand up comedy and having good times with my bestie, which could range from goofing off to karaoke to having deep conversations over vino. </div>
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Nope. Although I would love a kitty cat once I have a bigger place. </div>
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<b>18. Favourite movie?</b></div>
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Independence Day. I'm a nut for action movies. And I can watch THAT one over and over again. Also currently LOVING all the Marvel movies (Iron Man, The Avengers, Thor etc)</div>
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<b>19. What colour is your car?</b></div>
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Burgundy red</div>
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<b>20. What do you want to be when you grow up?</b></div>
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Happy. Career wise I'm doing what I wanted to be as a kid, and that's law. But when I grow up, what I want to be most is happy. </div>
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I hereby nominate:</div>
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<ul>
<li>Bee of <a href="http://glamlushhair.blogspot.com/">glamlushhair.blogspot.com</a></li>
<li>Melissa from <a href="http://haircaregy.blogspot.com/">haircaregy.blogspot.com</a></li>
<li>Neisha from <a href="http://www.neishajo.com/">www.neishajo.com</a></li>
<li>Andrea from <a href="http://www.lengtheninglocks.blogspot.com/">www.lengtheninglocks.blogspot.com</a></li>
<li>Yvette from <a href="http://hardmashonatype.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">hardmashonatype.blogspot.com</a></li>
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Enjoy ladies!!!</div>
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Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02592618054090025991noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4211270544777292152.post-88885054866657706502014-05-12T12:05:00.001+01:002014-05-12T12:05:03.790+01:00Twists Hairstyles Hola everybody! How was your weekend, mine was a blast!<br /><br />
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So, I was just playing around on Youtube today when I found the tutorials below, and I am going to try all of these hairstyles during the tenure of my twists and long term protective styling. What hairstyles do y'all prefer when protective styling?<br /><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/ZjJbYNfGG-8" width="480"></iframe><br /><br />
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Have a good Monday, and happy growing!!Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02592618054090025991noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4211270544777292152.post-797553175834753222014-05-08T14:44:00.001+01:002014-05-08T14:44:07.639+01:00Back in twistsHi there everyone.<br />
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Last we spoke I told y'all that I'm going home to my folks to have a bit of a rest, and boy, did I!! I got in a good 8-9 hours of sleep every night, I had NO social responsibilities and I lazed in front of the television like a person only does when you're on a lazy holiday.<br />
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Whilst I was home I squeezed in a wash day in preparation of having twists installed and long term protective styling for the next 4-6 weeks.<br />
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<li>Prepoo using my D&L Anti-Breakage Healing Treatment on my dry hair, taking a LOT of care considering that I was working with a two day old braid out. My mother gave me a little bit of a side eye, very much not understanding this thing of putting conditioner on dry hair before it was cleansed. I just smiled and carried on, sitting with my prepoo for about 30 minutes. </li>
<li>I then jumped in the shower (YAY, a shower!!) and shampooed using ORS Aloe Shampoo. It really is a detangling shampoo! I love it. It also cleanses properly without stripping. </li>
<li>I then used my Elvive Triple Resist Conditioner as smoothing conditioner before applying ORS Replenishing Conditioner as my DC. My mum wanted us to go into town later so I knew I can't take TOO long with my wash day process. And with being 18 weeks post, every step takes a little longer anyway. So I ended deep conditioning for 15 minutes with my hair covered in a plastic cap and standing underneath the steaming hot shower. </li>
<li>I REALLY like ORS products - my hair felt SO soft, yet very strong. I think that I have this moisture/protein balance thing pretty much down, although I will never stop being vigilant about it. I then applied my leave in's of Avon 3D Rescue Treatment and MoroccanOil Treatment before roller setting. </li>
<li>I let my hair air dry in the rollers before taking them out and lightly flat ironing my roots, using only one quick pass. I then spent the rest of the time in a ponytail as the wind was wreaking a little bit of havoc in my home town. </li>
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I proceeded to moisturise and seal every night, preparing my hair for the intense manipulation that comes with having twists installed. On Tuesday I found myself at the salon, 4 packs of Darling braiding hair in hand and sat down for the long haul. Because my hair was stretched and well moisturised and I prepped with protein on my wash day the process went okay. Although I had to remind the braiding ladies to treat my scalp like that of a five year old. I walked out 3 hours later and N$ 300 (about 30 US Dollars) poorer. The residual mild tightness only lasted about 12 hours and today, 2 days after them installed the twists are comfy and I am chilled. Of course I got myself a good braid spray that is very moisturising with which I give my scalp and hair a good spritz in the evenings before bed. I still sleep with a satin scarf and I plan to wash my hair at least once a week. </div>
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I'm planning to wear the twists for 4-6 weeks. If I manage a full 6 weeks then I would be 24 weeks post upon removal of the twists, which would be my longest stretch EVER!! Depending on how I feel at that time, I will then either touch up or continue to protective style through out winter. But, let me not count my chickens before they hatch. </div>
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What do y'all do to assist in stretching longer? What are your go to long term protective styles? What are your staples on wash days? My staple brand is definitely ORS, no doubt. What's yours?</div>
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<a href="http://www.savingourstrands.com/" title="The Wash Day Experience"><img alt="The Wash Day Experience" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWZHAAxpEECAkvLztEobohyphenhyphen9mOE6ilTbEISXlXESHr4AA72KB7YIX-QmSt6_HxrFJa7VcgmUGUzdSj0ywGRPxl1ANB0-ee3uN12d3e6sQ5C3pfQFqk5hi4BJlCnJldnNNIhrZf1DoprvM/s1600/The+wash+Day+experience+badge+%282%29.jpg" style="border: none;" /></a></div>
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Have a great Thursday everybody, and happy growing!</div>
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Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02592618054090025991noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4211270544777292152.post-51672680003512895372014-04-30T15:10:00.000+01:002014-04-30T15:10:55.446+01:00Looking good versus being healthyHola there everyone.<br />
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Is anyone looking forward to the long weekend as much as I am? I dare ya to be as excited as I am! Not as if I actually have things planned, except RESTING and being lazy. I'm taking a mini vacation - going to my childhood home, visiting my parents and actually resting and recharging my soul and tired bones. I'm also looking forward to actually showing to my doubtful mother how successful in my journey I have been thus far.<br />
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As I told y'all on Monday, I will be protective styling for the week, up and till I get twists installed and go into intensive long term protective styling mode. I am more than 17 weeks post and I am working my damnest to make sure that I don't experience unnecessary breakage and shedding. Last night I braided my hair into 6 cornrows after moisturising with my Amla Legend 1001 Oils Wrap Cream and this morning I pinned up the resulting braidout.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-uGl8KnhtREgkgBG-HXIpxyQQt8-41k7ocTLKGGGDT1cOOV_NIQ-Vijp8bMb4MaLSgqJOD1MQPR-JGi1cuwl7bG9qddOkcl-8ujfCsRH4NwvEo-AwXsHfQCUl7SwFiHpUejM3gRmX7eM/s1600/Windhoek-20140430-00188.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-uGl8KnhtREgkgBG-HXIpxyQQt8-41k7ocTLKGGGDT1cOOV_NIQ-Vijp8bMb4MaLSgqJOD1MQPR-JGi1cuwl7bG9qddOkcl-8ujfCsRH4NwvEo-AwXsHfQCUl7SwFiHpUejM3gRmX7eM/s1600/Windhoek-20140430-00188.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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As anyone can see, the kinks from the braid out isn't very pronounced, but my hair has a nice body and shine and my new growth is stretched and blended nicely with the relaxed length.<br />
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And that is what I want to talk about - today my hair IS healthy and it also LOOKS good. And up and till a few years ago I did not know the difference.<br />
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Let's take a trip down memory lane, shall we?<br />
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A million years ago, as a law student at the University of Stellenbosch, I lived in a res by the name of House Erica. We were about 190 young women living under the same roof, and this is where I had my first experience regarding true sincere female relationships. It is also here where I realised that I've got a bit of flair when it comes to hair styling. Within a matter of months I had my hands full styling my friends' hair. Nothing fancy, but I could do a roller set, a blow out and curls to the straightest of white girl hair. I knew how to make hair LOOK good. At the time though I had know idea how to keep hair HEALTHY. During this stage of my life my hair was relatively healthy though, but it sure as hell wasn't because I was consciously looking after it, it was a happy coincidence from soft water, a constant high humidity which kept my hair moisturised naturally, a tendency to only relax my hair during the holidays when I'm home with the folks (thus I was stretching without even knowing it) and the fact that I have roller set my hair religiously since I was a kid.<br />
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Today, after scouring the hair blogosphere, after researching countless articles on how to keep one's hair at its healthy peak, after embarking on my healthy hair journey, I know what I must do to keep my hair healthy, especially considering that me AND my hair are a bit older and the environment and climate I live in now is not as conducive to one's hair as that of the lovely Western Cape. I know now that healthy hair practically automatically looks good, but that a good looking style does not necessarily equal a healthy head of hair. I know now that one's hair doesn't have to be straightened to within an inch of death to look good. I know now that styling comes secondary to caring. And I know now that I am still able to style hair, but in a much healthier way. I wish that I knew of healthy practices consciously years ago. At the same time, thank God I know them now!!!<br />
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Tomorrow is a public holiday here in these parts and I'm heading home to my mama's house. I am going to drag her to the shops and show her what staple products I use on my hair. I will show her which ingredients in hair products are more harmful than others and I will explain to her why I do what I do when it comes to my hair. Just because one has walked the wrong road for a long time, does not mean that anyone or anything is preventing you from turning around and taking another road. That philosophy applies to life, and right now I'm applying it to my hair. Thank heavens that I turned around and started taking care of my hair in order to get it healthy. Because now, as it is HEALTHY, I don't have to stress about it looking good. Because the healthier the hair is, the less and less often does one experience a bad hair day.<br />
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So, what is anybody planning for the weekend? (Lol, yes, mine is starting in 2 hours!!!)<br />
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Be blessed, and happy growing!!Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02592618054090025991noreply@blogger.com1