Combating Postpartum Shedding

Pregnancy for some women can be difficult. Some have to deal with nausea/vomiting, fatigue, mood swings, etc. I dealt with extremely swollen ankles as I approached full term. However, if anyone had told me about the benefit of hair growth and fullness, I probably would have taken more pictures! I can't tell if the hair growth came from the pregnancy itself or the fantastic prenatal vitamins. I am leaning towards the vitamins, but time will tell. They say all good things come to an end. So, I am doing my best to address the postpartum shedding that I have been warned about. After reading and taking advice online, I've come up with a regimen that I believe has minimized excessive shedding.  In the meantime, I am continuing my prenatal vitamin intake, as I am nursing (and possibly still benefitting the bi-product of decreased shedding/hair growth). It also goes without saying to eat foods that are nutrient-rich.

Regimen
Pre-Wash & Detangle
Shea Moisture Conditioner (any favorite variety)

Wash
Jason's Pure Natural Restorative Biotin Shampoo

Condition

Jason’s Natural Biotin Conditioner

Rinse

Spray black tea onto my scalp

Apply Shea Moisture conditioner to leave in (black tea can be drying to the hair)

You may have noticed that conditioner is the regimen's star here. Afro-textured natural hair thrives when moisturized!

I Cried Over Spilled Milk: A Breastfeeding Story

I returned to work a little over two months after delivering my daughter. As a new mom, I learned to pump and store milk for my baby while I was away. I had a rhythm, but I wasn't always as savvy. In fact, I am constantly learning ways to stay ahead of the demands of a growing human's appetite. Getting [even] to this point, took some time and experience. Packing up for the day takes planning and coordination. During one of my somewhat synchronized mornings, I accidentally tipped a loosely-capped bottle of milk over onto the counter. It wasn't a total waste, but at least an ounce could only be wiped up. I quickly grabbed the bottle to tighten the top. *sniff sniff* A tear welled in my eye, and then the other eye. Yes, I was crying over spilled milk. It has taken some work and dedication to get to this point, and I don't want to squander what my body produces for the benefit of myself and my baby. Let this be a reminder to tighten those bottles after pumping-lol. I can look back and chuckle at this story now, but it certainly was no joke then.

Previously submitted to Black Women Do Breastfeed via Facebook:

"I just want to thank some and encourage other nursing moms in this group. I am a new mom of a three-week-old girl. I knew before conception that I had a desire to nurse, but I didn't know that it would be as difficult as it has been. After multiple sessions with lactation consultants and OB appointments, we were able to find a system that worked--and medication to heal my nipples (yes, it got that bad). I want the best for my daughter, and this is no indictment on mothers who are unable or decide not to breastfeed. I refused not to try every possible alternative..."

Embed from Getty Images

It's true. I have always envisioned myself as being a nursing mother (I used to pretend to breastfeed my dolls as a child). The new mothers in my family were nursing mothers, so breastfeeding wasn't only normalized, but expected. I did not come to learn and understand the stigma of breastfeeding (from an African American perspective) until I was older. Personally, breastfeeding (along with other birth expectations) would prove to be more challenging than I anticipated. I thought feeding my baby "from the source" would be an ease. It is a pleasure and joy to feed my child, but it initially came with a struggle; one that I was more than glad to endure. Hopefully, this will set expectations of other expectant or newly nursing moms.

Latching

Some moms have asked, "How painful is that first latch?" It really depends on you, your anatomy and sensitivity. It also depends on how your baby latches onto you. Women with protrusive nipples have less of a challenge that women with less protrusive or flat nipples. There are nipple shields that help with this issue. The remedy for sensitivity is said to be time, but time may not be a definite either way. Some women are just more sensitive and may or may not build a resistance to nursing with her sensitivities.

Newborn Feeding

Newborn babies require more frequent feedings. Conventionally, it's advised to feed newborn babies every couple or a few hours. However, no one explains the concept of cluster feeding until you need to know (usually by a baby's demands for more, please and thank you). Needless to say, this time can take a toll on you. Your sleep pattern is altered and your body is getting used to a new sensation: nipple friction. Yes, it's a term I've just coined (you're welcome). Unfortunately, this is where the pain comes into play. The constant friction can leave the very delicate skin of the areolas and nipples raw (I just got a flashback: ouch! I shudder to think).

Medications

If necessary, be sure to learn more about medications to treat any symptoms that you may have. My OB prescribed a topical ointment that worked wonders. She told me to apply some expressed milk onto the sore areas also, as breast milk has healing properties. (cool right?) I exclusively pumped milk when the topical medication was applied. Also, no one really says this, but occasionally let your nipples air dry after feeding. That may sound odd, but rest assured it helps.

Infant Feeding and Beyond

As your baby grows her/his appetite will change. You may find that your milk supply naturally adjusts to accommodate the changes.  I've gotten advice from friends and family, and I've found the formula that works for me. I use a number of supplements (e.g., Fenugreek) to help with my supply. You can find them listed in the Just for Mommy section of the Baby Registry or Supplies List.

Baby Registry or Supplies List

I remember feeling overwhelmed creating a baby registry when I was pregnant. I just wanted someone to take over and do this part for me. I could not easily distinguish wanted items from needed items. And after my mother took a look at my registry, telling me that I had too much of a specific product, I felt deflated. It was just too much for me, and I want to do something for some other overwhelmed expectant mom out there. Below is a working list of essential items for Mommy and Baby! You may notice that some obvious items are not included (e.g., pampers, diaper genie,etc.). If you have a shower, these types of items are a given. Let's hope this list helps in the development of your registry or shopping list.

*Find an updated list on the "Mommy & Baby Supplies List" page.

Just for Mommy

Isotropic Formula
Organic Prenatal Vitamins (tablet)

Fenugreek: http://amzn.to/2hXdGcn

Mother’s Milk Tea

Baby Registry Essentials

Apparel

Onsies: http://amzn.to/2hDTXj2; http://amzn.to/2gJWvu0;  (long sleeve: http://amzn.to/2gTli3A)  

Sleep N Play Onsies (LOVE THESE!): http://amzn.to/2hDOfxv; Unisex: http://amzn.to/2hXg3fw

Baby Socks; http://amzn.to/2hXhZoi

Baby Girl Little Black Dress: http://amzn.to/2hXee1Y

Travel

Backseat Car Organizers: http://amzn.to/2gTOBlf

Claw High Chair: http://amzn.to/2gTUnDd; http://amzn.to/2hXjSRY

Convertible Car Seat: http://amzn.to/2gTiT8Z

3-in-1 Diaper Bag: http://amzn.to/2hXntz9

Carrier: http://amzn.to/2gTNyBD 

Advanced 4-in-1 : http://amzn.to/2hXrELz

Car Seat Canopy and Nursing Privacy Cover: http://amzn.to/2hXuvUQ

Footmuff: http://amzn.to/2hDlPGJ
Baby Carrier Wrap: http://amzn.to/2ifVSsT 

Feeding

Spectra 2 Pump: http://amzn.to/2gTQtdn

Pump and Go Disposable Bottle Set: http://amzn.to/2gTNOAs

Bottles: http://amzn.to/2hE9jEk, http://amzn.to/2h3sF8K 

Bottle Warmer: http://amzn.to/2gKeqkk

Home, Health & Safety

Baby Monitor: http://amzn.to/2gTRaDu

Stair Gates with Mounting Kit: http://amzn.to/2gTl1xL
Bath Tub & Shower: http://amzn.to/2j6eFuH 

Back In Stride Again

Just as I drafted a blog post, I realized that it has been way too long, and I've offered no explanation as to where I've been. I previously posted that I was going to focus on weight loss. While I was focused on loosing some pounds, I could not participate in the exercise regimen that I hoped. I had an accident and had to use crutches for six weeks. Not too soon after I was recovered, I got some unexpected news. I was pregnant. Well, neither of those things should keep me from blogging. I know. There was just way too much else going on. I realize that the going. On doesn't stop, and my blogging shouldn't either. In what direction will I continue? We'll just have to wait and see. But I'm back [as the song says] in stride again!

Stepping Out

From seeing the date of the previous blog post to nvidel.com, you have probably noticed that I haven't been blogging for a while. The intro to this site helps to express my affinity for fashion, hair, makeup, lifestyle, and everything related and between those things. It's true. I enjoy it all. However, I didn't feel that I was aligning with what I professed to enjoy. And due to my personal ethics and values, I believe I should. For me, it's like going to see a nutritionist that obviously appears not to adopt a nutritious lifestyle. I would be less inclined to take advice from that nutritionist.

Don't get me wrong. My goal is not to be skinny. My goal is to love who I am and admire my reflection to the extent possible. After much introspection, I've learned what that goal looks and feels like. It won't be perfect and I'm OK with that. I just know that forcing myself to be accountable to the World Wide Web is a last-ditch effort (one that I hope works). So, I'm giving this a try. I kinda dared myself to do this raw video on YouTube, because I ran out of excuses.

"I'm too old."

"...too fat."

"...uncomfortable in my skin."

The list of excuses I've given myself, and loved ones is endless. Who doesn't have insecurities? Really. I'm sure there's someone out there who believes he or she is perfect, but I have yet to meet him/her. Since I've been wanting to increase my web footprint and be more open, I'm exposing my vulnerabilities, in hopes to get over on some of my insecurities--all on YouTube. My channel is: (you guessed it) nvidel.

NVidelTV will chronicle my journey of getting back to me, and more!

HELP! I'm Shrinking!

I've been growing my hair out for some time now, and I have to admit: it can be discouraging sometimes. However, while showing some of my friends how my hair is doing since I've been 'washing and going' I measured my stretched and non-stretched hair. I have 50 - 65% shrinkage at any point on my head. The shrinkage is incredible and OH-SO-REAL! Lol

I just love the versatility that my hair has! I've been incorporating henna treatments to strengthen my strands. I haven't been able to rest my laurels on co-washing, and I don't know if I'll ever get there. I will admit, that I'm glad to re-embrace my natural hair.

In a later blog, I'll share what I was told about NOT having relaxed hair. Stay tuned...

The Shrinkage is So Real! 7/3/14

I Can Wash and Go TOO!!

I never knew I could do it. I never knew I could achieve any type of curl pattern for an extended period of time, but I can. My previous post featured a video of Anthony Dickie's wash and go method. Well, I tried it for an entire week (and took a few photos). I am now going on my third week of washing and going, and I LOVE IT; so much so, that I purchased and read his book Hair Rules! I also purchased and now use the Hair Rules Daily Cleansing Cream which I love!! Stay tuned for product and book reviews soon. I have been reading a few books about hair for some time, and have not provided any reviews...my bad.

Day 1

Day 3

Day 9 (Rear View)

Now back to the matter at hand: the wash and go's will likely be my natural-hairstyle-staple for the summer. I am noticing less fall-out and shedding. The cleansing cream is such a good detangling product, that I don't need to use a comb. My fingers do the job just fine. I have also incorporated some awesome conditioners (which aid in further detangling) and the perfect styling product to capture the curl without a lot of build-up and flaking. I used the method as described by the guru himself. However, I found a few products that work best for me - of which I've highlighted in my wash n go regimen below.

Hair Rules Daily Cleansing Cream Moisture-Rich No-Suds Shampoo

Tribute

She is the constant thread woven through our life's fabric
Calm, serine, natural, beauty and glowing with the light of Love; she speaks to our lives 
Daily we hear her words of wisdom, gentle prodding to excel in all things we are inspired to do
She's the supreme cheerleader, and she has more than the legs for it
She has the hips for it and the march that orders the path before her 
Ever promising to be the blueprint
She is you
She is me

Power & Influence of the Natural Hair Movement

Did you know that YOU are changing how hair care products are being marketed recently? Yes. YOU-the one who decided to accept the way your hair grows out of your scalp-yeah, YOU. Have you perused through your local hair care retailer to see numerous product lines (once marketed to women with chemically-treated afro/ethnic hair), now expanding to include products to style afro/ethnic hair in it's natural texture (e.g., Aphogee)? It is unprecedented to be able to walk into your corner drug store or pharmacy and find a multitude of products specifically designed to further enhance and beautify your hair. Anyone who was hesitant to take the natural plunge, now has the tools and resources readily available. It's incredible. And all you had to do was make the (sometimes brave) decision to wear your hair just how it is.

I wonder what other change you could influence by deciding how (and on what) you are going to spend your money???? Hmmm....

It doesn't stop there...just go to YouTube and search 'natural hair, 3/4/a-c, or anything related to natural beauty'. You will find tubers who show everything from how to care for and style one's own natural hair,  to DIY natural hair care products. You've (in some way) helped to create a rich and supportive community. A community who strives to promote individuality and esteem, without demeaning others whom have not yet made the decision to follow suit. 

Who knows, I may try my hand at creating a tutorial, vlog, etc.  

;-)

By the way, I saw some very interesting footage come across one of my social media feeds...Have you seen the Huffington Post-Black Voices feature on Anthony Dickie's hair regimen method? Did I totally miss this?

Anthony Dickie, sir, please clone yourself! Thank you.

I never thought to do this, but I may give it a try. Have you tried this technique? What techniques do you use to spruce your look?

Brother's Keeper

Fascinating story about these brothers. Take a look:

Not News...Retail Coupon Codes

Before finalizing the order confirmation for your favorite clothing items, might I recommend opening a separate window and searching to see if your retailer has a coupon code lurking somewhere in cyberspace. I was pleasantly surprised this weekend while ordering a few items online. I was excited that the items were already on sale, but the 'Frugal Fannie' side of me [I totally dated myself with that reference] could not resist. I just ran a quick check out of pure curiosity. I found a few coupon codes that could apply. I chose the code that offered the greatest savings. I know this isn't news to some of you, but in case you thought coupons were only for groceries or food items...nah. You can find coupon codes out there for just about anything.

You're wondering what I got, aren't you? Just some items from Ashley Stewart! I have a few evening events to attend. Curvy girls can get dolled-up too -- and for a reasonable price! Keeping up with my look without spending too much for fashion essentials (e.g., the standard little black dress captured below). If you are interested, take advantage of the holiday sales and see if any coupon codes can be combined with your purchase. Either way you will save!

Ashley Stewart's Sweetheart Illusion DressReg. Price $49.50

http://www.ashleystewart.com/sweetheart-illusion-dress/AS-023682_3501-IT-XR.html?dwvar_AS-023682__3501-IT-XR_color=black#sz=65&start=63

What is Beauty?

PopArt - Lupita Nyong'o by JoeyHazelLM on deviantART

People magazine recently released their Most Beautiful List of 2014. At the #1 spot was none other than award winning and rising star, Lupita Nyong'o. No one [that I am aware of] is surprised to see yet another accomplishment like this for Nyong'o. As I celebrate with her along with other women (and girls) of color for the achievement, I asked myself (as I do with any such list): "What makes her so beautiful?" and further "What is beauty?"

The easy answer is to Nyong'o's beauty may demand that one simply 'look at her!' Her face is symmetrical, so she's biologically beautiful. Her skin is smooth and even as far as the eye can see, so she is dermatologically (it's a word for the purpose of this blog-lol) beautiful. She's the darling of every red carpet in Hollywood. Her accent isn't so thick that the untrained ear is unable to comprehend what she says. Yet, her accent speaks to just how cultured she is -- how worldly she is. She attended and graduated (with honors) from one of America's best schools - Yale University (a trend we are starting to see more of, but that's for a different blog). The point is, she's not just a pretty face. She's got brains and beauty. Apparently, she has personality too. Still, her ability to show such grace and humility isn't all that makes her beautiful.

What is beauty?

It is her ability to own and master all of those things while still knowing that there is more ground to cover. More to attain; to grow; to achieve. The essence of her says it all. It isn't an innocence or naiveté. It's the opposite. It is an unexpected maturity from someone just over thirty years old.

When my brother's eldest daughter was born, we observed that she visibly favored our/his features and darker complexion. I recognized that image issues may be a potential challenge, and I gladly took it upon myself to esteem her as often as necessary (without going overboard-balance is everything). She was and is beautiful - all of his children are. However, we knew that in this society,  standards of beauty vary from what is considered beautiful in our homes. Being Liberian-American, I personally did not experience the negative effects of colorism until I got to school, as family members and friends were (for the most-part) shades of ebony, chestnut and chocolate. Due to my experiences at home, the effects of childhood taunting (as it related to my complexion) did not seem to phase me to the same degree as other girls and boys a similar complexion. So much work had been done at home and within my family's network. I was esteemed in that area. Yes, I recognized that I was darker, but I was also told that I was pretty, smart, talented, humorous and more.

Lupita is beautiful. There is no doubt about that. However, her beauty comes from so much more than what we see.  I hope little girls (and the little girls within) strive to enhance the internal beauty that all are capable of sharing with the world.

It is so important for all to be represented on mainstream media outlets for this very reason. My niece is all grown up now. She recently told me that Lupita Nyong'o was one of her favorites -- already. It's amazing, and I love it. Her family esteemed her as a little one. Now Lupita and others like her, are reinforcing what we've known all along: that you can be beautiful no matter what the conventional standard dictates.

Watch this endearing exchange between veteran and emerging beauty icons, Alek Wek and Lupita Nyong'o (respectively): 

Be beautiful.

Moving Forward

I know, I know. I've been long gone, and haven't given an update. My life got a little crazy (okay a LOT crazy). In the chaos of it all, I forgot to pay attention to me. Thank God, things are much better now. Though fashion, makeup and hair are still interests (and will still be featured on the site), content has expanded to include health and [possibly] fitness -- for obvious reasons. I've gained a lot of weight and have noticed other physiological declines (i.e., skin, hair health, etc.). Things are settling. I'm on my way to wellness, and I'm inviting you along for the ride. It is not fair to readers for me to blog about image, if I am not focusing on making mine the best it can be. The format of this blog will not change very much, and I will still feature the things I love -- I'll just also be including some additional features related to life+style.

This IS a lifestyle blog. :-)

You've likely guessed, N.Videl is rebranding. Stay tuned to see how things change with me and the site. Feel free to share your feedback. Chat with you soon!

Moving forward,
N.

See What Bey Got Me?!

During the day:

@iamjamiefoxx @taylorswift @nvidel @j0nnieface IT'S OUR B-DAY, so HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! On this day, 12/13/13 I celebrate life, health, love and laughter. Thank you God, Thank You God, THANK YOU GOD! This year was full of lessons, and I'm a better woman because of these lessons. I looked down at my phone at 12:13 pm; the song "Grown Woman" was blasting in my ear 0:32 into the song). Last night, I was telling my line sister that I needed this song released so that I could blast it in my car (@kimberlyelle_c is my receipt-I ain't lyin')! Would you believe, @beyonce RELEASED HER ALBUM ON MY BIRTHDAY! Last week, I said I wanted a cake. I HAVE TWO! Some may count these as coincidences, but not I. God is blessing in big ways and small-and I am present and on time for them all! Go Nyeta, it's your birthday! #Team Blessed #1213 #TeamSaggi #GirlsNightAtTheRange #ImAGrownWoman #ThisIsMyLongestPostEver

This was an Instagram post sent to my friends and followers earlier today. Yes, it's my birthday! My age is not as significant as the warm and positive feeling I have today. Two Thousand - Thirteen  has been a bitter-sweet year for me. I fought and surrendered; laughed and cried; reacted and reflected. I've learned so much.

Friends have reached out to me, sending birthday wishes and kind thoughts. I've returned the gestures in kind. I really do believe I have the best friends in the world. They have created for me the strongest network of support and love I have (outside of my family). I explained to one friend that this birthday feels especially different. I'm not sure why. I explained that today feels like a New Year's Eve celebration-like 12/31/13. In reference to the Instagram post above, I declared to another friend that  I called Beyoncé last night and asked when she was releasing something new? He humored me, of course and let me finish my story. After telling him what really happened the night before (noted above), I asked: "See what Bey got me ?! An album just to celebrate how grown I am!" We laughed [for what felt like] 10 minutes.  I closed my story by saying that she sent a text with a simple smiley face. Smh-they let me imagine, and I love them for it! I later had Ladies Night at the range (fun times), and dinner at one of my favorite places to eat.

I thought I understood what some meant when they expressed "coming of age," or "coming into their own." Perhaps that's what I am experiencing-but to a greater degree. I've been an adult for years now, it's just different.

I Wept. Shortest Verse in the Book of [Me]...

I know what many of you, who know me, may be thinking (some have even asked)..."Where have you been, and why have you stopped blogging?!" Well, there's no good excuse for this, but there are many explanations. Life. Misfortune? Depression, maybe? I'll leave the explanations for another blog entry; perhaps a few more blog entries, a good therapist, and a glass bottle of the best red wine I can find (just kidding - not really). This blog entry is an alternative response to a culmination of proverbial bumps in the road.

A few months ago, I hit one of the lower points in my life, where I [somehow] allowed myself to think lesser of who I know I am. After being in that state for a time (too long to be honest), help came along (thank God) and got me on my way. I began to affirm who I am; reminded of and recognized the stuff I was made of; started reengaging my spirituality / faith, stimulating my mind (particularly the creative side of my brain), and increasing an awareness of my physical health. I've experienced enough to know that life is full of ups and downs, and we've got to do our best to pull from the resources we have in reach. Yet, with the recent mishaps, I found myself asking, "What's going on?" and "What am I doing wrong?" -- two actual questions that I sent in a text to a few of my friends. It came on the heels of a text exchange (between two of us) the night before. Knowing the details of things and how both she and I respond to perceived calamity, she sent a message reading: "So, did you cry yet? I tried last night ('cause my heart was racing), but nothing happened. Then I just simply said 'Jesus help me.' and went to sleep." I looked at my phone - wiping my tears, and replied, "I wept. Shortest verse in the book of [me]..." No matter what has happened in my life, I've always searched for ways to humor myself. I suppose since God gave me the healing gift of humor, I use it to heal my own hurt.

We've all seen this before: the "woe is me" / "why me?" inquiry that we portray or verbalize to the Heavens. This is what we do. We are all guilty of this, from birth to adulthood. And when we're through, we get ourselves together and keep pushing until we can push no longer--or at least we hope. There's no crime in asking why. The crime is in giving up on who you are, and who you have the potential to become. With that same spirit, I made moves. Wherever you may be in your journey, remember to use all that God has given you. It's yours for the taking. Then, keep it movin'! As with everything else in my soundtrack-of-a-life, here's one song for this season: Soul II Soul's Keep on Movin'. Listen here if you care to, and enjoy!

Fortunately, I Tell Myself the Truth

Way too much time has passed between now and my last blog entry on this site...I will try to avoid that happening again. I've allowed the busy-ness of life to consume me-all without taking [the proverbial] 'cyber pen-to-pad' otherwise known as blogging. It's no wonder my shoulder has been aching. I now understand what it is like to "feel the weight of the world on my shoulders." 

Perhaps, what I am feeling is not the weight of life (and the stress that comes along for the ride), but weight of weight-gain.

I recovered my missing phone and had it charge through the night. I woke up early (as usual) this morning and checked my voicemail messages. I know to check for messages from any phone, but for whatever reason, had not done so. I can't recall misplacing my work phone--ever, but my personal phone is frequently lost somewhere in my home, car...really, a variety of locations. (Note to self: Yet another example of how work is taking priority over all else. That must change). I was somewhat excited to check-in; to hear what I may have missed - after having misplaced my phone, and finding it...again.  A few messages were from friends touching base, sending holiday greetings, 'love you / miss you' messages (enjoy those), one was an anti-fraud message from my bank (gotta call them back), and two messages from my dad (one of which stood out to me).

"I was on my computer and saw a photo of you on Facebook. Do you mean to tell me you have gotten that fat?! I mean, look at your arms; your figure! Let's talk. Call me back, I'm tired of leaving voicemails."

Seriously? You can't be as tired of leaving voicemail messages, as I am of being disrespected by those closest to me. To answer the question: Yes. I've gotten fat; picked up a few; gained a little...yall know the rest. I have gotten fat. Over the past few years, I've put on more weight than I care to detail. I pant excessively when climbing steep hills and multiple flights of stairs; I stare at scores of clothes in my closet and drawers and think: 'one day, I'll wear you again-one day.' I get it. I've gotten it for years. The amazing thing, is that after hearing a message of this nature from a loved one, I didn't go off the deep end this time. I didn't burst into tears. I didn't call a lifeline and vent to a listening ear. I didn't set up a starvation plan. No one needed to talk me of of any ledge. No. Not this time. I've done those things thinking that being reminded of the painful truth would be motivation for weight-loss; only to later find myself on the fatter side of yo-yo'ing. I just erased the message, and continued to check the remaining 'love you / miss you' messages from those who love me at any size-and don't feel the need to point out the obvious. 

Fortunately, I tell myself the truth, so it's not difficult for me to acknowledge it. The hard and bitter pill to swallow, is the source. Then again, I must consider the source. After not seeing, hearing, or speaking with me for an extended period of time, that's the message you send? That I've "gotten that fat?" I guess so. I guess there's no shock there. No shock that you didn't notice how happy I looked in the photo, or the happiness that surrounded me in the photo...nope. Though, some small part of me [I suppose the little girl in me] is still in shock that I'd get that type of message from my dad.

This is not to bash my dad. Though he has said worse things to me, I acknowledge that that's just who and how he is. I will always honor him. What I want to share in this blog entry, is that growth is eminent at any age / stage in life. Perhaps a piece of me still hopes that I will see some growth in him. The level of emotional growth I've experienced has been worth the painful truth that I've come to terms with about the relationships I had (and have) with so-called friends and some family members. In reflection, I can recall encountering at least three tested or ended relationships-in just this year alone.  

Truth: I will always be a foodie. I will either gain weight or loose weight-whatever I decide to be, it will be because I have made that decision for myself. I will be happy .I am determined to be happy. 

Now, what's for breakfast?! :-)

Famous Last Words...

"...If it needs to be, go ahead and cut it." Famous last words of one woman's effort to grow out her hair. After a solid year and a half; with a few intermittent hair trimmings and long-term maintenance styles, it was time. It was time to let go of the quest to prove to myself that my hair can grow. That has been proven. I was able to achieve shoulder-length hair. My hair growth quest cannot forfeit the need to maintain a healthy head of hair, however. I have not been as diligent about seeing my professional hair-care provider. Frankly, it showed. I could also feel the damage of neglect. My new mission is getting rid of dead weight: physical, emotional and personal. I am recommitting myself to letting go of all things and people that no longer want me to hold on. Release. My hair included. Those ends were dead -- very dead. Denial had set in, and this was yet another area that I've had to come to terms with an ugly and inconvenient reality. The truth is, holding on to what isn't healthy only reaps perpetual damage; eventually extending to the root. It's best to just face the facts, accept the consequential, and cut unneeded ties. Remember to cut at the healthiest point, and even better if you get an edgy/cute outcome/desired finish. You've likely guessed, this entry is more than just about hair. And since I aspire to become the premier go-to for all things image, I have to start with me. I.MUST.BE the brand. I will continue praying, evaluating (and reevaluating) until I am where I believe I should be. So, here we go...

Let the Makeovers BEGIN!!

It's time. Time for us to take a long, hard look at ourselves. Evaluate. Decide now what it is you will change about you. Then, tell me. And I will do whatever I can to help you achieve your goals. NVidel's last post featured a photo shoot with 6RobinsPhotography. I had the pleasure of helping to makeover a group of exciting teens.

Take a look at what the team pulled together!

Fun Photo Shoot with 6 Robins Photography!

I had the pleasure of being onsite with 6 Robins Photography's for the summer photo shoot; via the Mentoring Through Photography Program. Staff included a team of Mary Kay consultants, local fashion designers along with hair and makeup. We were surrounded by nature on the Heaven Scent Farm, and I think the models really enjoyed themselves. The Azure Show joined us on location also.

Stay tuned, more to come!

Holiday Shopping...

...And no, I don't mean shopping for the holidays. I'm referring to shopping during holiday sales. Word of caution: BE CAREFUL!! Here are my top 5 tips for braving retailers during a Labor Day, Memorial Day, Valentine's Day, President's Day, Sunny Day, etc. Sales:

5. Write a list of what items you are looking for.

4. Shop with (and on) purpose.
Decide if you are shopping for a specific event or with someone else in mind. Whatever you decide, stick to the plan!

3. Use the buddy system.
If you have a friend who enjoys the sport as much as you do, ask if they would accompany you. They may be helpful in supporting your mission to stay on target - and it's always fun to have a companion come along for the ride. If you end up trailblazing solo, use your mobile phone hands free device, and have at it! :-)

2. Do the math on your own first.
Some of us may not be math whizzes - and that's ok. This isn't an exam, so pull out that calculator. Have an idea of what your savings will be before your turn in the checkout line. There's nothing worse that disappointing sticker-shock...but nothing better than discovering that you are saving more than what was marked on your potentially new item. If you like those types of surprises and want to rely on a retail associate and cashier, you can disregard this.

1. Start at the sales racks and work your way out.
This is an oldie but goodie, and has not failed me yet. We usually find the sale items in the back of the store. That is by design. Instead of falling for that strategy, head to the rear where the larger discounts are located. After factoring in the compound "total store discount" of 30-75% (on some items), you'll be more pleased than you thought!

No matter what you do for this holiday - Memorial Day - please take a moment to remember those whom have paid the ultimate sacrifice to ensure that we are able to live freely as bloggers, readers, and citizens.

n.videl