Look who uses Miss Jessie's!!

 It's Maia Campbell, thankfully looking better than we've seen her in a looong time. I always liked Maia.

At some point, I plan to revisit Miss Jessie's.... and give her products a try just ONE MORE TIME. One thing I do know, it won't be any time this winter. My hair has been too dry for me to gamble with any new products!!

Well, it's Valentine's Day week! What are your plans for the weekend?? My bf and I plan to go skiing!  I'm excited. I haven't gone in a loong time!  Before I go, I plan to give my hair a good deep conditioning since I know I'll be exposing it to cold temperatures more than usual. The dryness problem is under control, at least for now... but my hair has a mind of its own!!!

This is my wet hair after a co-wash,  no-product applied.I tried a new conditioner I bought at my hair salon. It's called "Knight's Extreme Moisture" conditioner with shea butter. I looked online and found no signs of this stuff. I'm curious to know what's in it, since it doesn't list its ingredients.

My stylist uses this, and it is a great detangler, but time will tell whether or not it will replace my staple products: Trader Joe Nourish and Hair Mayonnaise.  I may experiment a little with expensive products, but in the end, I always come back to these two because they work best for my hair. A lot of the conditioners I try APPEAR to hydrate my hair, but then a day or so later, my hair is hard as a brick!!!  I don't have that problem with my old stand-bys.

Teyana Taylor... her style is HOT, undoubtedly. The verdict is still out on whether or not all of this hair is HERS or not! I love her look! I think MOST of the hair is hers, but sometimes it does look a bit WEAVE-ISH!

I love this pic!!!! Isn't our President the COOLEST??? LOL

Hey Coily Girls!! Happy Saturday!!!  My bf and I are trying to find something to get into it since it's nice out. We were thinking of heading to the Poconos or maybe Lancaster for some snowtubing or skiing. More likely, it will turn out to be brunch at a cool cafe and a movie!

Shout out to Keshia Durr who just did her BC yesterday!!!  Keshia is a family friend. I'm so happy you went through with it, Keshia!  You'll see.... natural hair is soo much easier and healthier than relaxed hair.  Your hair looks really cute too!  :)

As for me, I'm going for the record for "most consecutive days of puff-rocking!"  Yes, my hair is STILL in a puff. I started gelling it back though, so now it's curly and wavy on the sides. I will clarify,co-wash, and deep condition it tomorrow.

Oh yeah.....I LOOOOVE Corinne Bailey Rae!!! Besides being one of my all-time favorite hair idols, she's got one of the prettiest voices I've ever heard. Click the link below to hear songs from her new album "The Sea" until January 26th! Have a great weekend!!

CLICK HERE: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=122767014

Feeling kind of nostalgic today!!! I was thinking about some of the music I used to listen to in college. "For Real" was a quartet of natural sistas rockin teeny weeny afros! I loved their style!

I used to love this group back in my college days when I was serious about trying my hand in music. I love to sing, and was always starting up female singing groups or trying to sing hooks on somebody's hip hop track. These are some of the other groups we would emulate:









Remember "Blackgirl"? 
"Nuttin Nyce" was like the poor man's TLC, but I loved this group!!!


Wow.... I loved "Sista" because I seriously thought I was gonna marry DeVante Swing some day. LOL




Loved this group!
 Y?N-Vee!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I miss the  90's..... best time of my life!  lol

Another Day, Another Puff....

So... I got lazy after having a 3 day weekend, and just wasn't in the mood to twist my hair this week. I have been wearing it in a shrunken puff for about 4 days straight. No gel!!!!  I put in some shea and spritzed it with water, and that's it. I didn't feel like wearing a HUGE puff this week. (and believe me, it can be HUGE if I want.) I felt like being subdued, so I was. LOL

Sorry.... I couldn't resist!!!!!!!!!!!!!! LOL!!

DOWNLOAD THIS!!!!!

Check out this new mix by Jazzface... it's a slow builder, and it takes you on a 32 track journey, in little more than 1 hour:

Click Here:   http://www.letsmix.com/mix/22112/build_up_the_breakdown

Coily Girl Rae Dawn Chong!!!

Remember her? At 48 years old, she's still GORGEOUS!!!!  Especially her hair!! Check out her blog by clicking here:  www.blogtalkradio.com/rae-dawn-chong/    or here:  dawnarae66.blogspot.com

This is her younger sister, Robbi Lynn. Here's some useless trivia for you... Robbi was going to play Willis's girlfriend on "Diff'rent Strokes" (1978), but producers thought that she wasn't ethnic looking enough and cast Janet Jackson instead!!!! Wow!

Wow!  Comparison pic from December 2007 until now. (January 2010)  My hair is really growing!  I have to admit, I really do miss feeling my hair on my shoulders, and having my ponytail hang down my back!!  I still have a long way to go to get to my ideal length!

Hope this article doesn't offend you NEGROS!  (LOL)


I saw this on http://www.gothamist.com/.  I just might PASS on the Census. Not sure yet. Funny, because I never saw answering the Census as a big deal in the past, but this article is definitely making me raise an eyebrow. (Or maybe I'll just leave that question BLANK! LOL)


**************************************

Census Bureau Wants Negroes to Fill Out Their Forms

"Negro" is pejorative, right? The ethnic classification was common usage through the '60s, and even Martin Luther King used the word in speeches and his Letter from a Birmingham Jail, but we're pretty sure that in 2010 "negro" is widely considered offensive, and the Census Bureau has caused an uproar by including it on their 2010 form.

Question No. 9, which asks Americans to state their race, lists "black, African Amer., or negro" as options. But how come there's only one option for "white"? What if one self-identifies as Poindexter, Richie Cunningham, or Whitey McWhite White?

Congress approved the form more than a year ago, and "negro" has appeared on past forms. Census Bureau spokesman Jack Martin says it's intended as a term of inclusion, telling the Daily News, "Many older African-Americans identified themselves that way, and many still do. Those who identify themselves as Negroes need to be included." But TV producer Patrick Riley asks Grio, "If the census form authors are going to go so far as to include an the archaic term 'Negro,' why not put 'Colored' on there? Just in case someone hadn't graduated from that word usage."


Yesterday the News took to the streets to ask blacks on the street what they think about negro. "It's a bad vibe word," said Kevin Bishop, 45, a Brooklyn salesman. "It doesn't agree with me, doesn't agree with my heart." 

 Taryn Anthony, a 25-year old graduate student, says, "I've yet to hear someone use it in a respectable manner, so placing it on a census seems as yet another way to set back African-Americans."


http://www.gothamist.com/

DOWNLOAD This!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

New Jack Swing/Old Skool Mix:
1.  PHAT INTRO

2. Ini Kamoze "Here Comes The Hotstepper" -
3. Soul II Soul "Get A Life"
4. Arrested Development "Tennessee"
5. Milli Vanilli "All Or Nothing" - Remix
6. Dj Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince "Yo Home To Bel Air"
7. Pm Dawn "Set A Drift On Memory Bliss"
8. Mariah Carey "Dream Lover"
9. Pebbles "Giving You The Benefit"
10. Whitney Houston "My Name Is Not Susan" -
11. Sybil & Salt 'n Pepa "Crazy 4 U" - Remix
12. Color Me Badd "I Wanna Sex You Up"
13. Candy Man "Knockin' Boots"
14. DNA Feat. Suzanne Vega "Tom's Diner"
15. P Interlude
16. Skee Lo "I Wish"
17. Lighter Shade Of Brown "Hey Dj"
18. LL Cool J "Mama Said Knock You Out"
19. Alliance Etnik "Respect"
20. TLC "Ain't 2 Pound 2 Beg"
21. LL Cool J "Stand By Your Man"
22. Lords Of Underground "Fonky Child"
23. Positive K "I got A Man"
24. Salt N Pepa "You Showed Me"
25. BabyFace Feat. Toni Braxton "Give u my Heart"- Remix
26. Neneh Cherry "Buddy X"
27. Soul II Soul "Joy"

Click Here:http://nphatflavor.podomatic.com/entry/2008-12-20T08_38_56-08_00
****************************

Prince Mix!!!!!!!!!!!  I'm a HUGE Prince fan. Well, actually, 70's and 80's music PERIOD! This mix is for all you 70's/80's babies!!!

Click Here:  http://groovesauce.podomatic.com/entry/2008-06-19T13_15_57-07_00 

****************************************************************************
80's Mix....................


Strange....Cameo
I can’t go for that....Hall and Oates
Mama Used To Say .....Junior
You’ve Said Enough....Central
Just That Type of Girl...Madame X
Nasty Girl....................Vanity 6
Love Bizarre...............Sheila E.
Can u help me..........Jesse Johnson
Let the music play....Shannon
Point of No Return.... Expose
Sweet Dreams.......... Eurythmics
I like.........................Young and Company
Take your time......... S.O.S Band
I didn’t Mean to Turn You On... Cherelle
Let’s Work.................................Prince
Automatic Brain........................Gap Band
Conscious............................... Womack and Womack




** Warning-- This mix is a little "choppy" for my taste, but it does have good music!



Click Here:  http://djlotuspetal.podomatic.com/entry/2009-02-24T20_34_50-08_00






*********************************************************************






Neosoul Mix:




1. Gina Loring – Somewhere There Is A Poem
2. George Anne Muldrow - Runaway
3. The New Congress – Anguish, Love, & Romance (feat Talib Kweli)
4. Yoshi – Magnetic (feat Darien Brockington & Buff 1)
5. Goapele – Milk & Honey (The Soul of Mind Motion Remix)
6. Preach Jacobs – Fallin’
7. Marsha Ambrosius – I Lost You
8. Kissey Asplund – Work It Out
9. The Tones – If You Could Change
10. Kayo – Who Am I?
11. Zo! – Nights Over Egypt (feat Carlitta Durand)
12. Motionlab – So Excited (feat Reggie Watts)
13. Sun Singleton – Ready (Opolopo Remix)
14. J. Dilla – Milk Money
15. Oliver Day Soul – Soul 4 U
16. Sy Smith – Waiting…Contemplating
17. WLUV Roll Call
18. Spec Boogie – Bed Stuy
19. Conya Doss – Don’t Stop
20. Platinum Pied Pipers – Ain’t No Ifs or Maybes (feat Coultrain)






click here: http://justkeithmac.podomatic.com/entry/2009-11-10T22_57_28-08_00

My Hair Today....

I gave up on trying to make the left side of my hair cooperate and just threw on a headband!!!!  LOL Got a lot of compliments, I guess because I usually wear my hair out (I don't use a lot of accessories unless my hair is acting up!!)  This is a Goody headband from Target.

I had to SLATHER on the shea butter when I got home yesterday because the wind has been really drying my hair out. In contrast, today I feel like a grease monkey, but at least I've gotten rid of the dryness! LOL

Racist???  YOU be the JUDGE!!!

Gorgeous!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Why doesn't Miss Jessie's give ME curls like THESE??? LOL

I never thought I'd be saying this again in MY lifetime, but I want ACID WASH JEANS!!!!! I've been some really cute ones lately, and I think I like this trend!! Of course, they'd have to be skinny jeans, like these... most of my jeans are now. Are you rockin' acid wash.... or should we leave that in the 80's??

Good Morning, Coily Girls!!!!!

We're a balmy 32 degrees in Philly today, so my hair can breathe a sigh of relief. (albeit, a veeeeeery SMALL sigh!!)  We've been experiencing windchills in the teens, and it has wreaked havoc on both my skin AND my hair!!!  So.... anyway, I had a hair appointment yesterday to touch up my color and have my hair deep conditioned. I never have my hair styled, because as we know twists can be VERY costly when you get them done in the salon. I left with my hair in a puff, and twisted it when I got home.

Well, I've come to the conclusion, that one side of my hair is the BAD SIDE of my hair, determined to do its own thing, no matter how much I try to cajole it to behave. It just doesn't respond well to washing!!!!  I can't even blame it on my twists being damp, because they were BONE DRY this morning!!!

When I do a side part, it's not so noticeable, but I've been wearing a middle part lately, and I can really tell how different each side is! LOL.... I did the same exact things to both sides, but I still get VERY different results.  Does this happen to you??

I looooove this car!!! My next car HAS to be a convertible. I'm a Cali or Miami girl at heart!  This is sooo ME!

DOWNLOAD THIS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Vocal House Music Mix by "Hear No Evil Mixes"  (Click the link)

http://classichousemixes.podomatic.com/entry/2009-12-27T05_11_44-08_00


YOU MUST DOWNLOAD THIS NEXT MIX!!!!  It's 4 hours of smooth and soulful house music that will grab you from the first track!! (DJ Semi)

http://djsemi.podomatic.com/entry/2009-12-22T18_30_48-08_00

So.... You Want to Be A Runner....

I can't tell you how many New Year's Eves have gone by where I made the resolution to start running! I've always wanted to be one of those people who runs for miles,soooo into their workout that they're totally oblivious to the people around them!  LOL  Well, reality for ME is I can't run longer than 2-5 minutes without huffing, puffing and gasping for air rather "unglamorously!"  LOL


I've got only myself to blame!  In my high school gym classes, it was a REQUIREMENT to be able to run around our track TWICE in under two minutes or you'd have to run it again! Believe me, it was only out of SHEER LAZINESS and the thought of having to run it again, that I was actually able to accomplish this!


So anyway, now that I'm an adult, I realize I have to work harder to stay in my shape! I've decided I want to do this by running!  Well, did you know there'a actually a CORRECT way to do it? In the past, I just put on sneakers and just started running, and wondered WHY this never worked for me.  I've done my research.... and this is what I found out:


How To Start Running:


Time Required: Eight weeks



Here's How:


1. Get medical clearance from your doctor before you get started.


2. Getting the right running shoes for your foot type is crucial for comfort and injury prevention . Visit a running store to get expert advice on buying the right running shoes .


3. Before you start your workouts, make sure you warm up properly by walking for 5-10 minutes. You should always end your workout with a cooldown.


4. Week one: Walk for 6 minutes, then jog at an easy pace for 1 minute. Repeat 3 times. Aim for three sessions with that same sequence for week one.


5. Week two: Walk for 5 minutes, then jog for 2 minutes. Repeat 3 times. Aim to do three sessions in week two.


6. Week three: Walk for 3 minutes, then jog for 4 minutes. Repeat 4 times. Aim for four sessions in week three.


7. Week four: Walk for 2 minutes, then jog for 5 minutes. Repeat 4 times. Shoot for four of those sessions in week four.


8. Week five: Walk for 2 minutes, then jog for 8 minutes. Repeat 3 times. Do four of those sessions in week five.


9. Week six: Walk for 2 minutes, then jog for 9 minutes. Repeat 3 times. Try to do four sessions for week six.


10. Week seven: Walk for 1 minute, then jog for 11 minutes. Repeat 3 times. Do four sessions this week.


11. Week eight: Congratulations on making it to week eight! For your first run this week, try walking for 5 minutes to begin and end the workout, and run for 20 minutes in between. By the end of the week, try to run for 30 minutes without stopping.


Aim to run for 30 minutes four times a week, and you'll notice that your stamina and fitness will continue to improve.


See, this is a routine I can actually live with!!! LOL

New Year...... New YOU!!!!!


Now that we're in a brand new decade, I know some of you may be contemplating "going natural."  Although I love natural hair, and think it's one of the best decisions I've made in my LIFE, it's not my style to get "preachy" about it. I usually don't talk about it unless someone asks ME about my hair. Even then, I answer their questions and keep it moving!! I went natural for ME... so I don't feel the need to talk about my hair ad nauseum, UNLESS YOU ASK ME!!!


So, for you ladies who are relaxed, (and maybe "on the fence" about going natural) transitioning or thinking of doing your "big chop" in 2010, here are some words of encouragement. While you may miss your long hair for a while,  I promise you will not regret going relaxer-free!




Here are some reasons  to "keep it KINKY in 2010"......

10. Our hair grows in that way. If your creator meant for you to have straight hair it would be straight.

9. You can do fun and versatile things with black hair. Unlike straight hair, black hair (naturally kinky) can stand straight up, can be braided into complex designs, can be temporarily straightened without chemicals, and worn in its natural state again the next day.
8.   It's in style!!!!! It's FLY!!!!!!!!!!!!  Natural 
hair is more and more acceptable every day. It is just another fashion choice; therefore, there is really no reason to go through great pains to change it.

7. Straightening chemicals are dangerous. If not applied correctly, it can cause burns, hair damage, and temporary to permanent hair loss.

6.  Hair chemicals are really, dangerous. The food and drug administration says, “Hair relaxers and hair dyes are among its top consumer complaint areas. Complaints range from hair breakage to symptoms warranting an emergency room visit”. Also” In February 1994, FDA and the American Cancer Society released an epidemiologic study involving 573,000 women. Researchers found that women who had never used permanent hair dyes showed decreased risk of all fatal cancers combined and of urinary system cancers.


5.  You never know when it might go wrong. Just like food, allergies show up over time, so do hair chemical allergies. What worked fine two years ago, might cause a bald spot in two years.


4.  If it went wrong before, it will very likely happen again. If you had a bad reaction to a perm, do not do it again. Nine times out of 10, the chemicals are just as much to blame as the stylist.


3.  Pride: Our hair is an identifying symbol of our race. If you are proud of your race, you should also be proud of your hair.
2.   Be advised: the work place cannot discriminate against your hair. There was a time when wearing an Afro, dreadlocks or braids, your job could say you were going against the dress code. This is illegal. Don't tolerate it!


1. Time savings: Over time, you will learn to shower, wash your hair and get dressed just like people with straight hair. It is just a matter of time until you find a natural style that works well for you.  I save so much time in the morning, because there's so much more I can do with my hair! If I'm having a bad hair day, I can throw on a headband or put in a few bobbypins and then BAM, I have a hairstyle.








http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/38468/reasons_for_black_women_to_wear_natural.html?cat=69

Tyra Banks leaving her TV talk show


Dec. 28, 2009, 9:43 AM EST
(from "Entertainment Tonight")


Tyra Banks is said to be closing down her talk show to pursue new career options.
This will be the last season of 'The Tyra Show,'" she tells People.com. "I've been loving having fun, coming into your living rooms, bedrooms, hair salons for the past 5 years."


Industry insiders say she will focus on bringing positive images of women to the big screen.
"My next huge steps will allow me to reach more women and young girls to help us all feel as fierce as we truly are," she says.


Tyra will continue to be a mentor on "America's Next Top Model" and produce her new ABC show "True Beauty."


*******************************************************

Wow, and just when I was ready to forgive her for her horrible "Natural Hair" show!!!  LOL I wonder what happened. Now who's going to attempt to fill Oprah's shoes?  I'm actually going to miss this show, even though I only watched it every now and then.

DOWNLOAD THIS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Need some travelin' music??? Check out this Christmas mix from  E. Mapa called "The Twelve Traxx of Mix-mas."


http://amerriica.podomatic.com/entry/2009-12-13T14_55_30-08_00


1. Up on the Housetop ( DJ Spinna Re-Edit)- Jackson 5 2. Soulful Christmas- James Brown 3. Back Door Santa- Clarence Carter 4. Close Your Mouth (It's Christmas)- Free Design 5. Happy Holidays Pts. 1 & 2- Ohio Players 6. Stone Soul Christmas- Binky Griptite 7. Little Drummer Boy- Lauryn Hill 8. Mid Break 9. Christmas in Hollis- Run DMC 10. Peace on Earth- Hopeton & Primo 11. Irie Christmas- Freddie McGregor 12. All I Want for Ismas- Jacob Miller & Ray I Happy Holidays!

It's Christmas EVE!!!!!!!!! I envy the kids rights now, because they get to wake up tomorrow morning and experience the joy and excitement of opening that gift they've always wanted!!! Boy, do I miss that!! As an adult, it's soo much harder to excite me! Especially since I know that now I have to create that excitement for myself! LOL Well, at least this year I don't have to worry about being broke after Christmas! Why, you ask? Because I was already broke BEFORE Christmas!!!!! LOL


I hope you all have a VERY MERRY Christmas!!! Be safe!!!






"Open your presents at Christmastime but be thankful year round for the gifts you receive." ~Lorinda Ruth Lowen

Over-the-Knee-Boots!!!


Okay, I am on a quest for the perfect boots right now! Make no mistake about it, I am BROKE, but I do plan to buy myself a pair of boots in the near future! I spilled White-Out on my favorite pair of brown over-the-knee boots, so... I need another pair! I've tried in vain to remove the stain, (Hey, that rhymes!! LOL)but to no avail.


I am really not a SHOE person.( I prefer boots, sandals, and sneakers. I BUY shoes, and my shoe game is "tight" LOL (especially for work) but I know eventually they'll hurt my toes. I much more prefer boots with a nice heel or a high-heeled sandal.


Here are some of the looks I LOVE!!


I just LOVE the slouchy look!  I find it's really easy to pair gray boots up with an "ordinary" outfit to make it POP!







For some reason, I'm really feeling suede this year.

HOTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT!!!  These are definitely me!

Don't you just love the side-zipper on these boots? Cute!

Love this heel! Not sure about the pointy toe though! Gotta keep my toes pretty for summer! LOL  I try to avoid pointy toes now!

CUTE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Rock-star appeal!




I love the back of these boots! Tres chic!

Check her out!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  New artist from Philly!

LMAO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  Just another reason to hate HP!!!!!!  WOW!

Yale-bound Curlies!!!!


Found this article on Bossip.com.  The Coily Quadruplets have all been accepted to Yale!!  Fantastic hair AND intelligent! 
***********************************************************************

Ray Crouch, a senior at Danbury High School , logged onto the computer in his family’s living room just after 5 p.m. on Tuesday and entered the Web site of the Yale admissions office.Suddenly the screen turned blue — Yale blue — and an image of a bulldog, the university mascot, appeared, followed by “Welcome to the Class of 2014.” Ray, 18, had been offered a spot in the next freshman class, under its early-admission program. Standing behind him, his mother, Caroline, screamed.


But that was only the beginning. Moments later, Ray’s brother, Kenny, also 18, went to the Yale site and got an identical message. He was followed by their sister Carol. Same news. Then the room fell silent. Ray, Kenny and Carol are quadruplets, and their sister Martina had applied to Yale, too. “I was thinking, it’s going to be really awkward when I don’t get in,” Martina recalled Friday. But the computer turned blue for her as well, which prompted such an outpouring of joy from their mother that she wrestled their father, Steven, to the floor in a hug. The Crouches’ perfect batting average represents a first for Yale — the first time in anyone’s memory that it has offered admission to quadruplets. It is also, of course, no small milestone for the siblings, who were born more than two months premature. (Ray was the last to be released from the neonatal unit, more than four months later.) They made up for that rough start. Their class rankings range from 13 out of a class of 632 (Kenny) to 46 (Martina) — and they have sky-high SAT scores (including Carol’s perfect 800 on the verbal part of that exam).


One advantage that Yale may hold in landing the four Crouch children is that they seem reluctant to part, after being inseparable for so long. Which is not to say they have not imagined what it would be like to go solo.


As Kenny put it: “It might be fun to go somewhere where I’m not ‘one of the quads.’ ”

BAD HAIR DAY AFTER WASHING!!!!

How many of you ladies have this problem?  My hair always looks TERRIBLE the day after I wash it!! LOL  I'm not talking about Wash N Go's, I'm referring to my twistouts. PUFF for DAYS! LOL  One side of my hair looks curly and defined, and the other is a huge FRIZZBALL!!

I know I can't be the only one with this issue!LOL  I think part of the problem is that my hair was still damp on the puffy side.  I'm thinking maybe I need to sit under the dryer or diffuse my hair a little.  Would love to hear your advice as well.

What do YOU think??  I jacked these pics from www.blackcelebritykids.com  and was amazed at some of the IGNORANT comments people posted about Willow and Jaiden Smith's hairstyles!!!  Personally, I LOVE Jaiden's hair! It's gorgeous!!  A lot of the negative posters seemed to think he looked "unkempt". I totally disagree! I love these stylish kids!

I admit, I do think Willow is a little young for such a cut, but it does look cute on her. I don't think I would let my daughter (if I had one) shave her head like that. So.... what do YOU think???

Loft Loves Teachers!!

I'm not sure if you're aware, but Ann Taylor Loft offers a 15% discount EVERYDAY for educators! All you have to do is go to http://teachers.anntaylorloft.com/  to sign up. Then, when you go to one of their stores, present your school ID to get the discount. I signed up like last year, but prior to that, I was missing out on this discount!  This is one of my favorite stores!  I know a lot of you are teachers, so I figured I'd pass that along, especially  since it's Christmas time!

DAY 26 Left Bad Boy!!!!

Now why doesn't this surprise me??  I actually like this group and was an avid watcher of  all of the "Making the Band shows. I also like Danity Kane, but I agree with Diddy that Aubrey and D. Woods were getting a little "beside themselves!"  I like Diddy, but I can tell from the show that he's probably an a--  to work for.

*******************************************************************************

Story By Danielle Canada (www.hiphopwired.com)

Diddy's stream of band fallouts is continuing as Day 26 formally announces that they've left his Bad Boy record label. While Diddy embarks on new territory with his recent signing to Interscope, his brain child of Quanell, Willie, Brian and Mike will do the same. The group has moved from Diddy's emblem to Atlantic Records. By doing so, hopefully they'll be able to salvage their career before their demise a la Danity Kane.



While their days with Bad Boy were numbered from the start, Willie is adamant that there's no bad blood between the group and the powers that be. He told TheBoombox,

“Bad Boy is always our family, but we're with Atlantic right now…we really want to get people focused on the artistry, on the music. I think a lot of people lost it with the entertainment of the show. So now, we really want to show people what we're all about, that we do our thing whether it's on stage, in the studio, writing and producing -- we do it all.”


The group isn't looking to put an album out until sometime next year, but in the meantime, ladies can invest in their women's shoe line. Released in September, Eight2Six shoes coincided with the groups single, “Your Heels.” The line's first product was the “Swagga Heel” featured in three different colors and priced at $99.99.


Am I the only one that's never heard of these shoes?! No? Didn't think so….


It's the Diddy curse I'm telling you! I DO NOT want to work for Diddy!

This is one voice I have TRULY missed... one of my favorite singers, Corinne Bailey Rae!!! Do you see how long her hair got?? OMG... she has always had beautiful hair, but she's officially one of my hair idols now!!!

Meet Coily Girl "Fsmith723"!!!! She's Newly Natural and LOVIN' IT!!! 






CW: Why did you decide to go natural?



Really, I've never liked getting relaxers..the whole sitting in the chair for an hour getting your hair permed. Too much for me. So when I learned about transitioning I was all over it!




CW:  What are the best and worst things about having natural hair?


I think the versatility of natural hair is one of the best things about it. Also the look and feel of it when it's well taken care of.


The worst...maybe pixie knots, but that's about it!!


CW:  Do you straighten your hair? What precautionary measures do you take?



As of right now, I don't currently straighten my hair.


CW:  Your current products/ routine:


I don't really have a set routine...I wash my hair once a week usually with suave smoothers 2 n 1, I condition with one of my many conditioners, then I use a leave-in and styler. I'm a bit of a product junkie, so I'm always trying something new.


CW: Do you have any color in your hair? If so, what kind?


No color.


CW:  Your hair type:


I think I'm a 3c/4a.




CW: Has reaction from family/friends/opposite sex been positive or negative?


Mostly positive...I've had a few members of the opposite sex tell me they prefer my hair straight, but that's about it.




CW:  Favorite hair accessories:


Goody ouchless bands and bobby pins. I'm also itching to try a Hairzing!




CW:  Your hair length goal:


I'm not sure where I would like to be unstretched, but my stretched goal is waist length.




CW:  Your hair idols:


I can't really say because I have so many! There have been so many wonderful ladies with beautiful hair supporting me since before my BC so I would have to say they are my hair idols.






CW:  Advice to transitioners:


Make sure you have a solid support system, whether it be online at one of the various hair boards or in your real life. Transitioning is mental and physical and you will go through some changes and really have to take a look at yourself for who you are. Make sure to have fun during your transition, it doesn't have to be all serious!

Holiday Hair Candy!!!!!!

Just in time for the holidays!!!  More reasons to go natural and STAY natural!!! I challenge ANYONE to go anywhere near a relaxer after viewing these beautiful hair pics!!!

Black Friday Natural Hair Product Deals....

I know a lot of natural hair bloggers are posting Black Friday deals, so I thought I'd post a link to one of the most extensive sale lists I've seen. I won't be buying any new products any time soon! LOL

http://usweetpea.wordpress.com/2009/11/25/black-friday-deals/

Hey Coily Girls!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I'm in SERIOUS chill mode right about now! I just wanted to wish all of you a Happy Thanksgiving! (or as some would say.. "Happy Kill-the-Natives-and-Steal-Their-Land- Day!!") LOL. Nevertheless, I hope all of you are enjoying your time with your families and friends. 

This will be the first year that I will NOT be in the mall doing the Black Friday thing. For one thing, I am BROKE this year.  Normally, I will still try to do big gifts even though I know it's only going to put me deeper in debt, but this year, I have decided not to do that to myself. We haven't received Christmas bonuses at my job for the past 2 years, so..... that's pretty much that!! LOL  This year, I will be giving LOVE for Christmas! LOL

Have a great weekend!!

DO YOU HAVE A BLOG???


I know a lot of you have hair blogs or some other kind of blog. Feel free to post a link to your blog here, and tell us a little bit about it!!!

Your "Good Hair Day" Pics.....


So, I'm starting something new here!!!!!  I want everyone to post their BEST hair pics!!  I know how fickle our hair can be! Post your good hair day pics here. (As many as you like!!!) 


P.S.-- I wish you MANY, MANY more!!!  LOL

The Ultimate in Cuteness!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

If this little girl has the sense to know that natural hair is BEST, shouldn't we??? I'm so proud of her!! I wish I knew what SHE knows at this age!!!

"Hand in Hair Syndrome"... (LOL)

Is this you?  I've noticed that ever since I went natural, I am constantly playing in my hair!!! LOL Not because I think it's so GORGEOUS or anything, (I wish!! LOL) but usually because I didn't have enough time to fix my curls the way I wanted before I left the house!!! So, all day long, I am adjusting,stretching and pulling curls, trying to achieve "the perfect curls".  Usually, by the end of the day, (when it's time to RE-TWIST my hair) I get the look I want. But... by then, does it even MATTER?  LOL

MY HAIR TODAY
SHEA, SHEA, SHEA... is all I can say!!!!!LOL  It is what works for me more than any other product so far for my twist-outs and to combat dryness!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  Can someone please remind me of this next time I decide to waste my money on Miss Jessie's or any other trendy products??  Jessie's made my hair look nice for a little while, but I paid for that with DRYNESS!!!!  At least with the shea, I don't get those consequences.

Dry twistout using Miss Jessie's Curly Meringue.. Used Baby Buttercreme as a moisturizer because I had heard some people say it's a good moisturizer. What a lie!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  LOL  I'm back to using shea butter and on occasion, Hair Milk, as my moisturizer. I stopped using Carol's Daughter. I have some other brand name that I got from the Nubian Heritage store in Brooklyn.


My hair is soooo shrunk up, tight, and DRY from the Baby Buttercreme. Even though I did get compliments, I don't like the way it feels and I'm definitely not feeling the shrunk up look. LOL

Click here to download first mix:  http://djteknision.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-28T16_09_49-07_00

DOWNLOAD THIS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


First... a Hot 80's Hip Hop Mix by DJ Teknision. All music, no TALK!!! 



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.....and Not your typical 80's Mix. This 80's mix contains the best of the Top 40 Pop and New Wave music as well as the best of R&B and Soul music from the same era. Listen, download if you want, and enjoy. I love this mix!!!!!!  So will you!



Click here to download second mix:  http://djbrianb.podomatic.com/entry/2009-08-03T03_24_16-07_00

Video and pics from one of my HAIR IDOLS!! Coily Girl, Shakara Ledard.

Kabrina's Kinky Curly Custard Review.

She hates it!! I think her hair looks pretty, but I totally see why she doesn't like it. This stuff is over-priced CRAP. I ended up with a puffy MOP after I used it.

Just thought this was cute. African men in a video response to "Single Ladies." LOL

You've GOT TO check this out!!! The official prison version of Michael Jackson's "They Don't Care About Us". I wonder why this video wasn't released. I KNOW this isn't the one MTV showed, but it should have been.

I found an interesting article about the new dress code at Morehouse College. As a teacher, I can't say I disagree with the policy. In my opinion, dress influences attitude. My students behave differently when they are in uniform versus their street clothes. I do understand that it's part of hip hop culture... don't get me wrong at all. I just think school is too important for fashion trends to disrupt learning.

Not to mention, the whole saggy pants this is PLAYED OUT!!! That was sooo 10-20 years ago!! The look now is more fitted. (I hate tight skinny jeans too, unless they're on a woman!!! LOL Maybe somewhere in between the sag and the tight skinny is appropriate!)

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Morehouse College isn’t having it anymore! You will not attend their learning institution and sag your pants at the same time. Pick one!
Via AHH:
In an attempt to eliminate “inappropriate attire,” prestigious HBCU and private institution Morehouse College has adopted a policy that bans sagging and other styles associated with Hip-Hop culture.

The “Appropriate Attire Policy” initiative is the product of Morehouse President Robert Franklin, who is seeking to reestablish what he’s coined as the modern “Renaissance Man.” That individual, Franklin states, possesses the “5 Wells” of being well-spoken, well-read, well-traveled, well-dressed, and well-balanced.

Sagging is said to have originated in the penal system, where prisoners were unable to keep their pants up due to belt confiscations to prevent suicides and murder.

The style eventually made its way to popular culture courtesy of early 90’s Hip-Hop, when multi-platinum artists like Naughty By Nature and Kris Kross adopted sagging as an accessory to their fashion ensembles.

Although viewed as a style for juveniles, some prominent Hip-Hop artists in their 30s and 40s still utilize sagging in videos, concert, and award show appearances.

Along with the new sagging ban, students will not be allowed to sport any form of grillz, do-rags, hats, “stunna shades,” hoods, or pajamas to class.

In another controversial move, the Atlanta college has prohibited any students from wearing female clothing, such as dresses, tops, tunics, purses, and pumps.

School officials have argued that none of the new rulings were designed to discriminate against students who identify with Hip-Hop or gay culture. Instead, President Franklin states he hopes to have the next generation of Morehouse graduates live up to the school’s legacy, as seen in notable alumni such as Martin Luther King, Jr, Spike Lee, Samuel Jackson, Maynard Jackson, and Saul Williams.

While acknowledging student reaction has been mixed, Morehouse Office of Student Services VP William Bynum explained that the majority of students would just have to make minor adjustments to their dress.

“I would say that about 95 percent of the students on this campus feel that appearance matters to them,” Bynum told the Maroon Tiger, Morehouse’s school newspaper. “We are not trying to isolate anyone that falls under a category, you can just look at it like its one out of eleven things being addressed.”

On the gay rights issue, Bynum revealed that administrators first consulted the campus’ gay rights oganization Morehouse Safe Space, to make sure their policy was in order.

“We talked about it and then they took a vote. Of the 27 people in the room, only 3 were against it,” Bynum stated.

Morehouse College has an estimated student body of 2700, and is one of two black institutions to produce a Rhodes Scholar (1994, 2001, 2004).