tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10247428369237821672024-03-13T07:49:30.893-07:00Carmel RoadsWelcome to MY World<br>
hair|make-up|fashion|randomnessErikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637534691175434645noreply@blogger.comBlogger312125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1024742836923782167.post-25064676202453015712016-08-16T06:17:00.002-07:002016-08-16T06:18:31.400-07:00Six Month Update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Here's my baby fro six months after Big Chop number 2. Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637534691175434645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1024742836923782167.post-74219201292638585992016-06-20T15:09:00.000-07:002016-06-20T15:09:15.343-07:005 (and a half) Tips to Length Retention.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z31FPW47Y40/V2fayf4nJ9I/AAAAAAAABVk/EO57kNW0qKMRPvfGhnC1nmTNI6m_dzSJQCLcB/s1600/may%2B2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z31FPW47Y40/V2fayf4nJ9I/AAAAAAAABVk/EO57kNW0qKMRPvfGhnC1nmTNI6m_dzSJQCLcB/s320/may%2B2015.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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(May 2015)</div>
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People use to always ask me what I used in my hair to make it grow. It tripped me out because although my strands are thick, I've never had "good hair". Before learning how to care for my hair I assumed that damaged and broken off hair was just my cross to bear.<br />
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It wasn't until my early 20's that I even thought about trying to grow out my hair. Since then I have spent countless hours testing and researching every tip, trick and easy hair fix under the sun. I've taken all the vitamins, tried all the techniques, I even mixed yeast infection creams and other kitchen concoctions all in an effort to get my hair to grow faster.<br />
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After putting in my 10,000 hours, I've learned that the rate that my hair grows isn't the problem> My problem (and probably yours too) was with retention. It doesn't matter how fast your hair grows if it is breaking off just as quickly. The best way for your locs to prosper is to focus on maintaining the hair that you have. Unless there is an underlying medical reason, most people have a growth rate of about 1/2 an inch a month. That's 6 inches a year! Bitch do you know how much 6 inches is?!?! A lot of these miracle vitamin and creams might get you an extra inch a year, but as for me and my budget, the results don't justify the cost. I'd rather spend my time and coins keeping my hair happy and healthy. That's the only way it will thrive.<br />
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Here's what I learned:<br />
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<li><b>Be Consistent!</b> Set a regimen and stick to it. You can adjust it to fit your hair needs as often as that changes, but you need to be intentional if you want to see results.</li>
<li><b>Wrap it up! </b>Bonnets, scarfs satin pillow cases. Use them Every.Single. Night.</li>
<li> <b>Deep Condition! </b>It forgives all hair sins. Do it weekly</li>
<li><b> Be kind to your ends! </b>Protective and low manipulation styles are great for this. This one is hard for people sometimes but if you are trying to maximize retention than you've got to find some styles that you like, that are also gentle on your hair. PUT THE FLAT IRON DOWN! Braidouts, twistouts, braids, buns Rollersets, wigs, sew-ins.</li>
<li><b>CUT IT! </b>I know this seems counterproductive but if the ends are split you gotta get rid of them. There is no un-spliting ends, THEY ONLY GET WORSE. I don't subscribe to the trim every 3 month notion, but I do think it's important to keep the ends of your hair healthy. I normally cut spilts when I see them, and dust when I feel like my knots/splits are getting out of control. </li>
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<b>Bonus tip for relaxed heads. </b>Stretch your relaxers!<br />
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Hope this helps!<br />
Peace<br />
Erika</div>
Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637534691175434645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1024742836923782167.post-39125162628419645332016-06-18T05:31:00.001-07:002016-06-18T05:32:15.967-07:00Big Chop #2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dmPgYOB6lRA/V1hfbPf_yLI/AAAAAAAABU0/qe6tgVbTXO4oKRPmNObowPqL4Y0efPSzACLcB/s1600/Feb%2B22%2B2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dmPgYOB6lRA/V1hfbPf_yLI/AAAAAAAABU0/qe6tgVbTXO4oKRPmNObowPqL4Y0efPSzACLcB/s320/Feb%2B22%2B2016.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
So this happened back in February. I was getting so lazy with my hair I needed a break from it. I am going to try to get back into the swing of blogging regularly. I turned 29 last week and I want to spend my 29th year on the planet doing the things I love. I love writing and blogging and even if no one reads it, it makes me happy. It will also hold me accountable for my grow out process, and I'm hoping it helps me find my voice. If I'm lucky it will help me find my purpose. <br />
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So, now that that's out of the way, lets talk hair. My new Short 'do, summer time regimen is pretty simple. <br />
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<li>Wash and Deep Condition ACV rinse Once weekly</li>
<li>Co-Wash, restyle every 2-3 days in between</li>
<li>Moisturize and seal daily</li>
<li>Satin Bonnet every night NO EXCEPTIONS</li>
<li>Drink more water (I downloaded a water reminder app)</li>
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DAS' IT!</div>
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These are the products in my current rotation. I must warn you that it changes frequently, so don't get too caught up in what I use in my hair because at the end of the day, products don't matter nearly as much as how you treat your hair. </div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d3YDldh3epo/V1htNHQI_gI/AAAAAAAABVQ/KAcsuWP6uvshWhncreEgQftFMSBc5IDiQCLcB/s1600/current%2B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d3YDldh3epo/V1htNHQI_gI/AAAAAAAABVQ/KAcsuWP6uvshWhncreEgQftFMSBc5IDiQCLcB/s320/current%2B.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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*Spray Bottle contains water and the YT Conditioner. </div>
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**Not Picture Coconut Oil</div>
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Yes To Carrots <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Carrots-Nourishing-Conditioner-16-9-Ounce-Bottles/dp/B001EWET96?ie=UTF8&keywords=yes%20to%20carrots&qid=1465413572&ref_=sr_1_4_s_it&s=beauty&sr=1-4">Conditioner</a> </div>
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Shea Moisture <a href="http://www.amazon.com/SheaMoisture-Superfruit-Complex-Renewal-Shampoo/dp/B00SEN8WUA/ref=pd_sim_194_1?ie=UTF8&dpID=415hV-n8QYL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR160%2C160_&refRID=167HC22YR5M3NM7AEA2S">Shampoo</a></div>
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Shea Moisture <a href="http://www.amazon.com/SheaMoisture-Superfruit-Complex-Renewal-System/dp/B00TCNZFBK?ie=UTF8&keywords=eden%20body%20works&qid=1465413164&ref_=sr_1_19_s_it&s=beauty&sr=1-19">Deep Conditioner</a></div>
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Shea Moisture <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Shea-Moisture-Restore-Styling-Lotion/dp/B01CTBEPV2/ref=pd_sim_194_8?ie=UTF8&dpID=31rtsURO3lL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR160%2C160_&refRID=1EQTBED20VX2C88K5MJJ">Moisturizer</a> (I don't like this for daily use, It makes my hair hard)</div>
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Shea Moisture <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Shea-Moisture-Jamaican-Strengthen-Treatment/dp/B00MXD8ZTU?ie=UTF8&keywords=shea%20moisture%20hair%20products&qid=1465413317&ref_=sr_1_8_s_it&s=beauty&sr=1-8">Edge Control</a></div>
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Eden BodyWorks <a href="https://locobeauty.com/products/eden-body-bodyworks-coco-shea-all-natural-curl-defining-cream-16-ounce?variant=1259796319">Curl Defining Cream </a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Viva-Labs-Finest-Organic-Coconut/dp/B00DS842HS?ie=UTF8&keywords=coconut%20oil&qid=1465413975&ref_=sr_1_4_s_it&s=beauty&sr=1-4">Coconut Oil</a><br />
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Peace<br />
Erika<br />
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<br />Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637534691175434645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1024742836923782167.post-13129203699341725762015-07-12T17:12:00.001-07:002015-07-12T17:12:30.971-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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New Vlog!Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637534691175434645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1024742836923782167.post-82092430432714715372015-06-20T19:01:00.001-07:002015-06-20T19:01:41.132-07:00New Vlog!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/KWZ_EdLpC48/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KWZ_EdLpC48?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<br />Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637534691175434645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1024742836923782167.post-92003709520860821872015-06-20T11:56:00.000-07:002015-06-20T17:08:22.048-07:00My Heart Is Heavy<br />
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I grew up in a Baptist church. I was there every <a href="x-apple-data-detectors://0" x-apple-data-detectors-result="0" x-apple-data-detectors-type="calendar-event" x-apple-data-detectors="true">Sunday morning at 9:30 am</a> for Sunday school, and stayed through the 1<a href="x-apple-data-detectors://1" x-apple-data-detectors-result="1" x-apple-data-detectors-type="calendar-event" x-apple-data-detectors="true">1 am</a> service. If there was an evening service that week, I was there for that. I was there every <a href="x-apple-data-detectors://2" x-apple-data-detectors-result="2" x-apple-data-detectors-type="calendar-event" x-apple-data-detectors="true">Wednesday night at 7:14 pm</a> for bible study. I was married at that church. I love my church.<br />
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One of my favorite things about my church is that we have a "come as you are" policy. No judgment. No pretense. If you are in <span style="text-align: center;">need of spiritual guidance then you are welcome. </span></div>
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What happened in Charleston, South Carolina on June 17th, 2015 could have happened at my church. My great grandmother would have been there. My grandmother would have been there. My mother, my sisters, My pastor, the man who has been my spiritual leader my entire life would have been there. My heart is heavy. </div>
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Racism isn't dead. A man walked into a church, prayed with people who went out of their way to make him feel welcome and he then executed them. Their only crime, being black. </div>
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I keep hearing people say things like why does everyone focus color or why are you making everything about race and it drives me insane. Black people didn't create the institution of racism in America. It isn't solely up to us to fix all racial issues in this country. We see race because in 2015, a man walked into a church and slaughtered its members because they were black. I would be a fool not to think that my race has an impact on how people perceive me. </div>
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I dread the day I have to sit my son down and explain to him that there are people in this world that hate him because of what he looks like. I can't picture the look on his face when I tell him that he has to be twice as good and twice as smart as his white peers in order to have the same opportunities. How am I supposed to tell him that the color of his skin makes people feel intimidated and that in order for some people to accept him he will have to go out of his way to make others feel comfortable? How do I tell him all of that in one breath, and then explain to him that his blackness is something to be celebrated in the next?<br />
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This is not a think piece on racism in America.<br />
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This isn't a proposed solution to the race problem in this country.<br />
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This is one black woman trying to make sense of the emotions coursing through her veins.<br />
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My thoughts and prayers are with the congregation of The <span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I hope you find peace. </span></div>
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Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637534691175434645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1024742836923782167.post-32071431589282856572012-11-19T17:07:00.002-08:002012-11-19T17:08:40.583-08:00Quick Tip:Using Coconut Oil in the Winter Ok I have rededicated myself to this blog.<br />
I have no excuses, I'm just lazy.<br />
Any-who, I'm back with a quick trick to help you and your hair get through this winter unscathed. I saw this when I was browsing Pinterest and I literally jumped up and ran into the kitchen to try it out. It's so simple yet genius I can't believe that I have never heard of doing it before.<br />
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You know coconut oil right?<br />
You know how it's hard and sooooo annoying to deal with in the wintertime right?<br />
Are you like me and you pretty much give up on it until the weather warms back up?<br />
Well now you don't have to, and no this doesn't involve a microwave or a hot water bath.<br />
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ok here's the tip..<br />
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take the coconut oil and WHIP IT!!!<br />
Thats it.<br />
That's All<br />
Put as much or as little as you like in a bowl, and beat it with your electric mixer.Iit shouldn't take more than 5 minutes, more if you use a lot and less if you use a little. To be safe, just stop when you get a fluffy, frosting like consistency.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XA5xYTaGtc4/UKrVxQoMEkI/AAAAAAAABQQ/QOElJvZNdwo/s1600/more+shit+090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XA5xYTaGtc4/UKrVxQoMEkI/AAAAAAAABQQ/QOElJvZNdwo/s320/more+shit+090.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I did this a few days ago and my oil has stayed pretty much the same as the day I whipped it, and let me tell you it makes applying the stuff 100 times easier!<br />
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The mixture melts into your hand, it's like a little slice of heaven<br />
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No need to thank me.<br />
Peace<br />
Erika<br />
<br />Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637534691175434645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1024742836923782167.post-2623368177652348752012-05-05T12:45:00.001-07:002012-05-05T12:48:59.266-07:00Mini(literally) Fragrance Haul<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, verdana, helvetica, georgia, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;">Ok so, two things </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, verdana, helvetica, georgia, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;">1. Every time I go to WalMArt/Taregt/Walgreens/CVS i have to swing past the clearance end cap in the beauty dept. I mean most of the time you find junk but every once in a while you can find a gem.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, verdana, helvetica, georgia, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, verdana, helvetica, georgia, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;">2. If you find that gem. YOU MUST BUY IT.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, verdana, helvetica, georgia, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;">Now thats how we find our selves at todays post. While browsing said section I came mini bottles of perfumes that were under 5 bucks!! </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, verdana, helvetica, georgia, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;"> Yes you read that right they were under 5 bucks. Now they had 4 different scents, but only two of them caught my eye. Enough babbling here's what I got.</span><br />
<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="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qpJIF85490s/T6V_QoiJEYI/AAAAAAAABQE/uajT2i4sKlg/s1600/iPhone+060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qpJIF85490s/T6V_QoiJEYI/AAAAAAAABQE/uajT2i4sKlg/s320/iPhone+060.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">sorry for the crappy pic</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, verdana, helvetica, georgia, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;"><b>Mariah Carey-/Forever</b>---gardenia, dewy green apple, lotus blossom, tuberose, exotic woods, neroli, white musk</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, verdana, helvetica, georgia, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;"><b>Halle Berry/Halle</b>--</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, verdana, helvetica, georgia, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;">Fig, pear blossom, cashmere musk, cashmere musk, bergamot, sensual amber, freesia, mimosa, ultra mimosa, hibiscus, driftwood, sandalwood, olibanum</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, verdana, helvetica, georgia, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, verdana, helvetica, georgia, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;">These are great for summer and I surpassingly like them both. I'm kind of picky when it comes to scents so I was hoping I would be able to wear at least one of them, but for 4 bucks I figured it's only really a loss if I don't buy them.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, verdana, helvetica, georgia, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, verdana, helvetica, georgia, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;">So moral of this story. Always check the clearance bins</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, verdana, helvetica, georgia, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;">XOXO</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, verdana, helvetica, georgia, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;">Erika</span></span>Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637534691175434645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1024742836923782167.post-36105075105464790362012-04-30T11:49:00.001-07:002012-04-30T11:49:33.404-07:00Food For Thought: Smoothie Packs<a href="http://carmelroadscooks.blogspot.com/2012/04/smoothie-packs.html?spref=bl">Food For Thought: Smoothie Packs</a>: Hey Dolls, As promised i'm back with part two of my smoothie post. So the question I posed in the first post was how the hell am I going ...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eFyObjjSqtY/T57emO5pcWI/AAAAAAAABP0/YKZL0T7ur7A/s1600/iPhone+055+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eFyObjjSqtY/T57emO5pcWI/AAAAAAAABP0/YKZL0T7ur7A/s320/iPhone+055+(2).JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637534691175434645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1024742836923782167.post-76051754675820731182012-04-30T05:47:00.001-07:002012-04-30T05:48:09.459-07:00Food For Thought: Smoothie of the Week<a href="http://carmelroadscooks.blogspot.com/2012/04/smoothie-of-week.html?spref=bl">Food For Thought: Smoothie of the Week</a>: Hey dolls, So I've been on a health and fitness kick lately. I think it has mostly to do with the fact that I'm getting married in Septembe...<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-NPMdbF-w4HM/T56KCEUuYcI/AAAAAAAABOg/13zW2QSh-0g/s640/blogger-image--286394428.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-NPMdbF-w4HM/T56KCEUuYcI/AAAAAAAABOg/13zW2QSh-0g/s640/blogger-image--286394428.jpg" /></a></div>Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637534691175434645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1024742836923782167.post-23559362209982868592012-04-28T14:12:00.000-07:002012-04-28T14:12:37.268-07:00The Holy of Holy'<br />
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Hey Dolls,</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0d_C4_yZqXw/T5xdEaHes_I/AAAAAAAABNY/aExV-vrkdTs/s1600/carmelroads+016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0d_C4_yZqXw/T5xdEaHes_I/AAAAAAAABNY/aExV-vrkdTs/s320/carmelroads+016.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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So I have a confession to make. I have really been slipping
on my deep conditioning as of late. I’m talking once a month MAYBE. *Gasps* I
know I know but in my defense since I’ve been using terressentials mud wash my hair
hasn’t really felt Super dry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></div>
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I think one of the major reasons I’ve stopped DC’ing is
because I haven’t found a deep conditioner that really makes anymore of a
difference to my hair than my Yes to Carrots conditioner. So I was like why not
eliminate the extra step? And save the extra $$</div>
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I would however like to step up my DC game for the summer,
because I will be wearing my hair out a lot more, and experimenting with new
styles, and I don’t want any setbacks!</div>
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I have been experimenting with a new deep conditioner and I
think I’m in LOVE. It’s a variation of Naptural85’s Greek yogurt DC and it has
already been promoted to the Holy Grail list. I am also in the process of
looking for a store bought HG deep conditioner (because sometimes I get lazy) so
for those of you that aren’t into mixing your own products stay tuned for that.</div>
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Here we go.</div>
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I always deep condition on dry dirty hair.</div>
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This mix adapted from <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_p2O33-d154&feature=fvst">Naptural85</a>.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iC_77VcIZAU/T5xcW1uSgbI/AAAAAAAABM4/kt_Au4twsAY/s1600/carmelroads+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iC_77VcIZAU/T5xcW1uSgbI/AAAAAAAABM4/kt_Au4twsAY/s320/carmelroads+001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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½ Cup of Greek(I bought low fat by mistake but it worked
just as well) Yogurt</div>
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2 tablespoons of Oil (I’m using EVOO today, but I just pick
whichever oil is handy at the moment)</div>
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1 tablespoon of Apple Cider Vinegar</div>
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10-20 drops of tea tree oil ( to stimulate growth, help with
dry scalp and mask the smell)</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bBu6SnyVaFM/T5xch96dFjI/AAAAAAAABNA/WwkGzEsxOYk/s1600/carmelroads+010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bBu6SnyVaFM/T5xch96dFjI/AAAAAAAABNA/WwkGzEsxOYk/s320/carmelroads+010.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Now you want to try to not get this on your scalp because
the smell might linger on long after you’ve washed it out, but I didn’t have
any issues with that.</div>
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Now I’m an airhead and I didn’t take any pics of me applying
this mixture but I apply it in the same way I apply everything which is section
by section. I also started at the ends and worked my way up.(Don’t let it touch
your scalp, or try you best anyway)</div>
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When you’re done cover it with a plastic cap and let it sit
for at least 15 minutes. You can leave it on as long as you want. I think I
left it on for about 45 min.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PPa7Ioau_I4/T5xcm9a_5xI/AAAAAAAABNI/_BbFl4mNeMY/s1600/carmelroads+012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PPa7Ioau_I4/T5xcm9a_5xI/AAAAAAAABNI/_BbFl4mNeMY/s320/carmelroads+012.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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wet hair before I washed</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--OX0viouabo/T5xc5-bDWfI/AAAAAAAABNQ/rLQio_UPKZU/s1600/carmelroads+020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--OX0viouabo/T5xc5-bDWfI/AAAAAAAABNQ/rLQio_UPKZU/s320/carmelroads+020.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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after washed and 85% dry</div>
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<br /></div>
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This DC left, my curls stretched and hydrated. My hair has
never felt softer! I think this will be good for relaxed heads, transitioning
and color treated heads because it has just enough protein without being over
powering, and it helps you hair to retain moisture. The best part is, you
probably have all the ingredients already in your house. </div>
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Try it.</div>
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I dare ya</div>
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XOXO</div>
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Erika</div>Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637534691175434645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1024742836923782167.post-29089596535795444222012-04-28T12:05:00.001-07:002012-04-28T12:05:20.224-07:00Daily Tea InspirationXoxo<br />
Erika<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lvYDER1_cyY/T5w_bsSU3iI/AAAAAAAABMs/3XRzOkjAbck/s640/blogger-image-383268134.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lvYDER1_cyY/T5w_bsSU3iI/AAAAAAAABMs/3XRzOkjAbck/s640/blogger-image-383268134.jpg" /></a></div>Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637534691175434645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1024742836923782167.post-822737395010236922012-04-25T11:24:00.001-07:002012-04-25T11:27:28.865-07:00NOTD: Blue Leopard LovingFeaturing China Glaze in Electric Beat and Shower together. Sinful Colors Hottie<br />
Xoxo<br />
Erika<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-YZG4rhWkbkw/T5hBSkrpoJI/AAAAAAAABMg/plEuuPtEvYg/s640/blogger-image--1949369212.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-YZG4rhWkbkw/T5hBSkrpoJI/AAAAAAAABMg/plEuuPtEvYg/s640/blogger-image--1949369212.jpg" /></a></div>Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637534691175434645noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1024742836923782167.post-38658987689724258482012-04-23T12:27:00.001-07:002012-04-23T12:27:21.784-07:00<3 9/8/2012 <3I thought I would share a few engagement pictures with you guys impart because I love them and also impart because it was a great hair day!!!!<br />
enjoy<br />
Xoxo<br />
Erika<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IhiyMWj5dro/T5WtEsOPdCI/AAAAAAAABL4/pxnTB5K49ow/s640/blogger-image--1057909097.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IhiyMWj5dro/T5WtEsOPdCI/AAAAAAAABL4/pxnTB5K49ow/s640/blogger-image--1057909097.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Cyi7cD-GTeU/T5WtFLZTF7I/AAAAAAAABMA/nmg5eihuBjs/s640/blogger-image-1072666864.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Cyi7cD-GTeU/T5WtFLZTF7I/AAAAAAAABMA/nmg5eihuBjs/s640/blogger-image-1072666864.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-PDQ2I8LJBOU/T5WtFUp1U5I/AAAAAAAABMI/EcYnhVcW2rA/s640/blogger-image-137933145.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-PDQ2I8LJBOU/T5WtFUp1U5I/AAAAAAAABMI/EcYnhVcW2rA/s640/blogger-image-137933145.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Ljk3nwXmwSU/T5WtFuf5O2I/AAAAAAAABMQ/b6O2FBHDEi8/s640/blogger-image-2127635149.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Ljk3nwXmwSU/T5WtFuf5O2I/AAAAAAAABMQ/b6O2FBHDEi8/s640/blogger-image-2127635149.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-g_E7FWrbSoQ/T5WtGK5kcCI/AAAAAAAABMY/8UKlV6x60Rs/s640/blogger-image--33959888.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-g_E7FWrbSoQ/T5WtGK5kcCI/AAAAAAAABMY/8UKlV6x60Rs/s640/blogger-image--33959888.jpg" /></a></div>Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637534691175434645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1024742836923782167.post-17847032357980489712012-04-23T08:17:00.001-07:002012-04-23T08:22:31.407-07:00Girls Weekend Haul.Hey Dolls,<br />
This weekend my very bestest friend came to visit. Even though she was only here for the day it was really nice to have someone to laugh, and bullshit with. We spent what little time we did have doing what we do best. Shopping and drinking.<br />
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<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pT8Lp27QnB4/T5Vv1j_lfvI/AAAAAAAABKg/zLHEgDpmlRk/s1600/iPhone+076.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pT8Lp27QnB4/T5Vv1j_lfvI/AAAAAAAABKg/zLHEgDpmlRk/s320/iPhone+076.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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The Drinking</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uTIwjbhpVi8/T5Vv_K07QnI/AAAAAAAABKo/wQSP7qJ5JME/s1600/iPhone+083.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uTIwjbhpVi8/T5Vv_K07QnI/AAAAAAAABKo/wQSP7qJ5JME/s320/iPhone+083.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The Shopping</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HTItYSpGgmw/T5VwRZCJHHI/AAAAAAAABKw/p61QNMgXZbM/s1600/iPhone+096.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HTItYSpGgmw/T5VwRZCJHHI/AAAAAAAABKw/p61QNMgXZbM/s320/iPhone+096.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Nail Polish thinner from Sally's</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RAuqCWm0D4g/T5VwfIhvzjI/AAAAAAAABK4/coKHj5qveLg/s1600/iPhone+098.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RAuqCWm0D4g/T5VwfIhvzjI/AAAAAAAABK4/coKHj5qveLg/s320/iPhone+098.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Elf Mist and Set(I ran out of Fix Plus so I figured I'd give this a shot)</div>
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Caring Coral: Not as opaque as I thought it would be :/</div>
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Smooch Proof: Perfect, going to buy more ASAP!</div>
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Femme Couture Gliter Liner in Blue: Not as much glitter as I'd hoped</div>
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China Glaze Coconut Kiss: Perfect Purple!!</div>
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China Glaze In the Lime Light(Neon) Love the color, wish it wasn't so sheer!</div>
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Cute Contact Case!</div>
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Friends!!!!!</div>
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XOXO</div>
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Erika</div>Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637534691175434645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1024742836923782167.post-27284723005758665942012-04-16T08:49:00.001-07:002012-04-23T08:22:53.016-07:00NOTD: Pink AshChina Glaze Smoke and Ashes with Sinful Colors Bali Mist on top. <br />
<br />
These cell phone pics aren't doing it justice but it's amazing! <br />
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<a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-mCQ4U_9ac9o/T4w_fYQD7uI/AAAAAAAABKY/TQqKpg9Ac6k/s640/blogger-image--425650814.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-mCQ4U_9ac9o/T4w_fYQD7uI/AAAAAAAABKY/TQqKpg9Ac6k/s640/blogger-image--425650814.jpg" /></a></div>Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637534691175434645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1024742836923782167.post-34868735183226027612012-04-16T07:24:00.003-07:002012-04-16T07:27:15.146-07:00Food For Thought: 3 Tips to Saving Money and TIme at the Grocery Sto...<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wqEHG1fW5-I/T4wsCciKf1I/AAAAAAAABKI/DbzUwNZ63iY/s1600/iPhone+039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wqEHG1fW5-I/T4wsCciKf1I/AAAAAAAABKI/DbzUwNZ63iY/s320/iPhone+039.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://carmelroadscooks.blogspot.com/2012/04/3-tips-to-saving-money-and-time-at.html?spref=bl">Food For Thought: 3 Tips to Saving Money and TIme at the Grocery Sto...</a>:</div>
(glasses so you know it I'm spitting knowledge) Hey Doll's Long time no cook! I will resume regular posting this week but I wanted to s...Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637534691175434645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1024742836923782167.post-70783629871502854562012-04-14T08:30:00.001-07:002012-04-14T08:31:52.284-07:00NOTD: Spoiled/ Black MambaAn opaque gunmetal color.<br />
<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8M_KvYidjB8/T4mYDZSMJJI/AAAAAAAABJ4/hRoudA-7qlU/s640/blogger-image-411080373.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8M_KvYidjB8/T4mYDZSMJJI/AAAAAAAABJ4/hRoudA-7qlU/s640/blogger-image-411080373.jpg" /></a></div>Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637534691175434645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1024742836923782167.post-12203667713414633132012-04-14T07:40:00.000-07:002012-04-14T07:42:22.839-07:00Spoiled Nail Polish, China Glaze DupesHey doll's<br />
SO I just spent an hour tying up a well informed review of Spoiled brand nail polish and comparing some of them to China Glaze, and then my computer decides to shut down and blogger deciedes not to automatically save anything but the FUCKING TITLE!!! So instead of the well informed review that was originally planned here are a bunch of pics. Hopefully I can upload them before I throw my laptop out of the window.<br />
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Left is Black Mamba, Right is The Parking Meteor Expired<br />
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Swatches<br />
Black Mamba<br />
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The Parking Meteor</div>
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China Glaze Hunger Games Dupes</div>
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Spoiled Orange you Glad Vs. China Glaze Riveting<br />
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China Glaze Smoke and Ashes vs. Spoiled The Parking Meteor...<br />
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Sorry for the half ass post, I just can't bring myself to re-write everything :/. </div>
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Peace </div>
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Erika</div>
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<br />Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637534691175434645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1024742836923782167.post-6094782115206843742012-04-11T11:18:00.002-07:002012-04-11T11:20:51.719-07:00Side Braid.Hey, Doll's
Here's a very easy to do protective style perfect for those times when you just don't have the time to co-wash/twist/wait/untwist/fluff/pin/etc
Hope this helps
xoxo
Erika
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/RW3XcrHNICg" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yBypKQZ0YOo/T4XKj5vuKMI/AAAAAAAABHU/T56QkfN28jg/s1600/iPhone%2B050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yBypKQZ0YOo/T4XKj5vuKMI/AAAAAAAABHU/T56QkfN28jg/s400/iPhone%2B050.JPG" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wMQvUYDbAwQ/T4XKkBryyKI/AAAAAAAABHg/6OrbuJJPJ5I/s1600/iPhone%2B048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wMQvUYDbAwQ/T4XKkBryyKI/AAAAAAAABHg/6OrbuJJPJ5I/s400/iPhone%2B048.JPG" /></a></div>Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637534691175434645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1024742836923782167.post-40110032721227237722012-04-11T11:09:00.000-07:002012-04-11T11:09:36.295-07:00What a Difference a Year Makes..Hey Dolls,
Here is my very long overdue 1 year Nappy update. I know what you are thinking, but Erika you big Chopped in February and it's April. Well, what had happened wasss......... Ok long story short I was being lazy.
I learned a lot about my hair last year and I hope to continue to learn even more this year.My goals are simple, keep my hair healthy and don't be so quick to grab the scissors. I also would like to experiment with styling my own hair more now that it's finnally "long enough" to try some of those amazing styles i've seen all over youtube.
Anyway enough chit chat lets get to the good stuff.
I went from this (Feb 2011)
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gICP9ubFats/T4XC3iJR0JI/AAAAAAAABFc/pqZ9w1KuMUM/s1600/feb%2B2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="267" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gICP9ubFats/T4XC3iJR0JI/AAAAAAAABFc/pqZ9w1KuMUM/s400/feb%2B2011.jpg" /></a></div>
to this(dec 2011)
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BZqF3_Qfx4M/T4XDY6gxYbI/AAAAAAAABFo/8ZS69D9PxKo/s1600/tiny%2Btwists.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BZqF3_Qfx4M/T4XDY6gxYbI/AAAAAAAABFo/8ZS69D9PxKo/s400/tiny%2Btwists.JPG" /></a></div>
and now this(April 2012)
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SbgiQkJkevU/T4XF4yRd3XI/AAAAAAAABF0/SmdY_GvKB_U/s1600/iPhone%2B056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SbgiQkJkevU/T4XF4yRd3XI/AAAAAAAABF0/SmdY_GvKB_U/s400/iPhone%2B056.JPG" /></a></div>
Here's a look at my loose hair
From this(Feb 2011)
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YOSq7Qbww_M/T4XGH3kMahI/AAAAAAAABGA/OYjlYnHEdhU/s1600/2nd%2Bday%2Bhair%2Bfeb%2B2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="267" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YOSq7Qbww_M/T4XGH3kMahI/AAAAAAAABGA/OYjlYnHEdhU/s400/2nd%2Bday%2Bhair%2Bfeb%2B2011.jpg" /></a></div>
to this (Dec 2011)
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lcLNyO_97q8/T4XGTew5yOI/AAAAAAAABGM/CBn0-4Sfi60/s1600/ipas%2Bimages%2B021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lcLNyO_97q8/T4XGTew5yOI/AAAAAAAABGM/CBn0-4Sfi60/s400/ipas%2Bimages%2B021.JPG" /></a></div>
and now this (April 2012)
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fOizv9Eb5Rs/T4XGeKsPEDI/AAAAAAAABGY/UPx0L2TpYTk/s1600/ipas%2Bimages%2B037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fOizv9Eb5Rs/T4XGeKsPEDI/AAAAAAAABGY/UPx0L2TpYTk/s400/ipas%2Bimages%2B037.JPG" /></a></div>
Here are some of my favorite protective/low manipulation styles
Wigs
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V50gPjjtQyQ/T4XGrLO1YHI/AAAAAAAABGk/1wqTASpEFUQ/s1600/ipas%2Bimages%2B010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="267" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V50gPjjtQyQ/T4XGrLO1YHI/AAAAAAAABGk/1wqTASpEFUQ/s400/ipas%2Bimages%2B010.JPG" /></a></div>
BOx Braids
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y9-NAGEQJT8/T4XGxyrICxI/AAAAAAAABGw/uW_QOUlTlp4/s1600/ipas%2Bimages%2B041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y9-NAGEQJT8/T4XGxyrICxI/AAAAAAAABGw/uW_QOUlTlp4/s400/ipas%2Bimages%2B041.JPG" /></a></div>
Kinky twists
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mC6pjwWn4w4/T4XHTo68gjI/AAAAAAAABG8/lAXA2A4AcT4/s1600/KT-nov2011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mC6pjwWn4w4/T4XHTo68gjI/AAAAAAAABG8/lAXA2A4AcT4/s400/KT-nov2011.JPG" /></a></div>
Phony Pony
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CjRjmMVNbOI/T4XHZ3CqdjI/AAAAAAAABHI/XnCzFwG0rMU/s1600/iPhone%2B049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CjRjmMVNbOI/T4XHZ3CqdjI/AAAAAAAABHI/XnCzFwG0rMU/s400/iPhone%2B049.JPG" /></a></div>Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637534691175434645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1024742836923782167.post-37025928753479669042012-03-03T07:16:00.002-08:002012-03-03T07:32:38.039-08:00Feb Fave FivesHey Dolls,<br /><br />I'm so sorry for being away so long! I've loads of stuff to share with you but for now here are my February favorites.<br /><br /><iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/S1ReghSQJo4" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637534691175434645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1024742836923782167.post-20759670632599013862011-12-20T16:57:00.000-08:002011-12-20T17:08:05.847-08:00Juices and Berries<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vNsjlR7z2CY/TvEwS7C0eZI/AAAAAAAABDA/TnOtj2XC-iQ/s1600/juices-JB.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 295px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vNsjlR7z2CY/TvEwS7C0eZI/AAAAAAAABDA/TnOtj2XC-iQ/s400/juices-JB.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688380905990945170" /></a><br /><br />It's no secret that I am in LOVE with <a href="http://oyinhandmade.com/">Oyin Handmade</a>. I think it's a great company, and I love what they stand for. About a month ago I made my very first purchase with them and I haven't had any regrets. <br /><br />I would have liked to have used this on my real hair a few more times but because I only purchased the sample size 2oz bottle I used most of it when I was in kinky twists. I’ve only gotten the chance to use it on my real hair twice before I ran out. I probably wasted a lot of the product because I enjoyed the fruit smell it left behind so I used it more often then was probably necessary.<br /> <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Here’s what the company says</span><br />"Greg Juice" has been one of our most popular products since its introduction - and "Juices and Berries" is the same oil-free mixture of vegetable moisturizers and herbal essences; The change? The fragrance... Juices and Berries is fragranced with the juiciest, fruitiest, brightest fruit scent we could find! Perfect for summer, or anytime you want to sweeten your day.<br />The therapeutic effects are the same as for Greg Juice - spring water, strongly infused with a variety of herbs known to help stimulate scalp health and encourage hair growth; vegetable ingredients for detangling, moisture and suppleness; vegetable glycerine for humectancy and shine; and an essential oil blend nutritious to the scalp.<br />This formula, like Greg Juice, is excellent for a daily pick-me-up on cornrows or twists. My sisters say it keeps their locs moisturized without weighing them down. And if I tried to detangle my hair without a bottle standing nearby, it would stand up and laugh at my comb. Many uses, this potion has. Cop a 250ml oz bottle and find out for yourself.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Ingredients</span><br />Juices & Berries contains: purified water infused with horsetail, lavender, nettle, roses, and chamomile; organic flaxseeds; aloe vera juice; vegetable glycerine; essences of lavender, sweet orange, ylang ylang; grapefruit seed extract; citric acid. It is naturally preserved with grapefruit seed extract and citric acid. Please use within 6-12 months, refrigerate for extended storage.<br /><br />Here’s what I say:<br />I like to judge a product on 3 things. <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />1. Does it do what it says it’s supposed to do?</span><br /><br /><blockquote>Simply put, YES! It keeps my hair and scalp soft and nourished without a greasy buildup feeling. I used this product as the company suggest right before my nightly shower and wow! My twists were moisturized like nobody’s business The only downside to this method is I did notice it cause my hair to frizz up more, but that’s with all products that contain glycerin so I knew what I was getting into. <br />I also have never tried to use it to detangle so I’m not sure If it works for that :/.</blockquote><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">2. How well does my hair respond to it?</span><br /><blockquote><br />My hair seems to like this stuff. I’m not sure if I would like it over a creamier moisturizer when my hair is out because I have very dry, thick and coarse hair so I need something a little heavier for that, but as far as refreshing braids or twists it’s great. </blockquote><br /><br />3<span style="font-weight:bold;">. Am I getting a good value for money? <br /></span><blockquote>For the regular size 8.4 oz bottle it cost 12 dollars +shipping. I think that is a fair price for what this product does and if you are not big on making your products at home, then it’s worth the money. If you do, however, like to mix your own stuff then I would say don’t bother because I’m sure you can make something just as good in your kitchen. <br /></blockquote><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Final thoughts.</span><br />I like this product, it smells good and it does what it says it’s going to do. I wear my hair in twists a lot, so a leave-in spray is a must in my regimen. I would purchase the full size of this spray, but it’s not a HG for me. <br />I would probably only buy it if I need to purchase something else from Oyin to justify paying shipping. The reason behind that is because although this product is great, I can use and aloe/water spritz or a water/leave-in spritz or pick up something locally(i.e. shea moisture) for less money. I know I’m cheap! I’m trying to plan a wedding! <br /><br />Anyway all and all I like juices n berries, I would buy it again, but it’s not a MUST HAVE for me.<br />Peace<br />So Much Love<br />ErikaErikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637534691175434645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1024742836923782167.post-12839251530252774932011-12-20T16:55:00.000-08:002011-12-20T16:55:48.204-08:00Food For Thought: Sausage, Red Beans and Rice<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SCLv2M9WEN0/TvEugQynR_I/AAAAAAAABC0/oqJz2pprrYk/s1600/carmelcooks%2B011.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SCLv2M9WEN0/TvEugQynR_I/AAAAAAAABC0/oqJz2pprrYk/s400/carmelcooks%2B011.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688378936143595506" /></a><br /><a href="http://carmelroadscooks.blogspot.com/2011/12/sausage-red-beans-and-rice.html?spref=bl">Food For Thought: Sausage, Red Beans and Rice</a>: I created this recipe in my mad search to find the perfect red bean and rice. Caleb is super picky when it comes to red beans and rice so...Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637534691175434645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1024742836923782167.post-73739847828401474642011-12-19T05:47:00.000-08:002011-12-19T07:03:35.956-08:00Weekly Update 12//12-12/18As Christmas gets closer, my free time has seemed to disappear. In the few spare minutes that I have really been getting into cooking, thus my new <a href="http://carmelroadscooks.blogspot.com/">food blog</a>! I have always had an interest in cooking but in the last few weeks I promised myself I would try at least one new recipe a week.<br /><br />As far as my hair is concerned I have been pretty lazy but I did put in some "tiny twists"<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lLPM297bKRU/Tu9LYeETCXI/AAAAAAAABBU/kiAGbcmShNY/s1600/tiny%2Btwists.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lLPM297bKRU/Tu9LYeETCXI/AAAAAAAABBU/kiAGbcmShNY/s400/tiny%2Btwists.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5687847738152257906" /></a><br /><br /><br />I call them tiny twists because they are not quite as small as the typical mini twists, but they are smaller than small twists thus the tiny twist was born! I put them in because I didn't feel like doing kinky twists, but I wanted a style that I could wear with as little manipulation as possible. <br /><br />It took my about 2 1/2 hours to do and I am hoping to get 2 weeks out of them. I even got a compliment on my hair yesterday at the grocery store so I am thinking this style will be a keeper. <br /><br />I was hoping to kinky twist until Feb, but we are planing on taking out engagement picture sometime in January, so I definitely don't want to take them in kinky twists. I think these will be an awesome alternative if they last the whole 2 weeks.<br /><br />Have a great week!<br />Peace<br />So much love<br />ErikaErikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637534691175434645noreply@blogger.com0