Natural Hair Cruisin 2011!

Wow!  Natural Hair ladies sure do know how to kick it!  There are 3 Natural Hair cruises going on in October 2011!!  They sound like they are gonna be SO much fun, maybe I'll get on one, maybe not, but I definately wanted to bring the info to you!

Atlanta Naturals Presents...A Natural Voyage.  5 Day Caribbean Cruise ~ October 17th - 22nd (This Cruise leaves from Tampa, FL)

go to http://anaturalvoyage.eventbrite.com/ for more info!

Showing My Roots Natural Hair Presents...North American Naturals Cruise ~ 5 Day Baja Mexico Cruise ~ October 10th - 14th (This cruise leaves from Long Beach, CA)

My Hairitage Holistic Hair Care Presents... 3rd Annual The Hairitage Holistic Hair & Wellness Cruise ~ October 15th - 19th, 2011 (This cruise leaves from Baltimore, Md.)

Go to http://myhairitage.com/press/?page_id=10 for more info!

Ladies, no matter where you are in the U.S. there is a CRUISE for you!!  If you go Please come back and tell me about it!  Who knows you MIGHT just see me on one!
Have a GREAT Summer!

Thanks as always, for reading :-)

Curly Girls Rock & World Natural Hair Show HAULs!!

It goes with out saying that I had a BALL this year at Atlanta's "Natural Hair Weekend" April 29th & 30th.  I kicked it off Friday night at The Curly Girls Rock soiree at Harlem Nights and I finished it with a fun filled visit to The World Natural Hair Health & Beauty Show on Saturday, April 30th.  You can view my videos for BOTH events on my You tube Channel:  The SistahChick's Spot. 

The SistahChick Attends Curly Girls Rock
The SistahChick & The LittleChick Attend the World Natural Hair Show

My documention of the weekend's events would not be complete without a "HAUL" report.  Don't you just love a good haul?  A "Haul" if you dont know, is the end sum of all items obtained in abundance from events, expos, shopping trips, etc.  It doesnt matter if the items are freebies or purchases, if you love them, you got them and you brought them home... its a haul! 

Curly Girls Rock sent EVERYbody home with something!  I mean they were giving away SO much stuff it was crazy!  They had door prizes, gift bags, samples, raffles, you name it.  We were presented with a NaturallyCurly.com bag at the door.  Inside the bag was:  A water bottle from Harlem Nights, and Samples from Mixed Chicks, Oyin Handmade, Darcy's Botanicals, Hair Rules, SofNfree & Pooka Pure & Simple.  African Pride was there giving out samples, I saw Miss Jessie's gift bags too and there was MUCH more!

I even won a raffle!  I was so excited when they called my ticket # and ESPECIALLY since my prize was a Sage Naturalceuticals Gift Set.  It included:  Full size bottles of Oyin Handmade's Greg Juice & Honey Hemp Conditioner, A coupon for 10% off and a gift card for $25!!!  What a night! 

I Just LOVE a good giveaway!!

The next day we went to the World Natural Hair show.  I must say that I was disappointed that I could not get the Jane Carter items that I wanted.  I had planned to try a few new things as well as stock up on some stuff.  Unfortunately, about 20 thousand people beat me to it.  Oh well, since i couldn't get that stuff I moved on to other things.



Just a few things

 

...other bangles and baubles



I love, love, love my Uncle Funky's Extra Butter.  Lucky for me they were there and fully stocked!

I was already a fan of Pura Body Naturals products, so i picked up some Sapote Hair Lotion & Capuacu Hair Butter.  I also saw Afroveda there and decided to pick a couple of their products to try.  I wonder if my hair will agree with their Moisture Milk Herbal Hair Conditioner and/or the Curl Define Hair Butter Cream.  I will be sure to let you know! 

The JessiCurl products looked interesting and smelled great.  The lady at the booth was so nice I had to get some Too Shea Extra Moisturizing Conditioner.  I cant wait to try it! 

Since the hair show I have given Taliah Waajid's Curls, Waves, & Naturals line a try.  I picked up the Curly Curl Cream, Curl Sealer and The Great Detangler.  Stay tuned for the review!  In addition, I picked up a few sets of TW's Kinky Wavy Natural Kids line to be used for giveaways.  Each set includes:  Berry Clean, Style & Shine, and Herbal Comb Out.

Can you say, "Happy Camper"??  I am gonna have so much fun trying out and reporting everything to you!  Stay tuned!

Thanks as always for reading

Peace :-)



Pretty Girl Rocks! Jewelry Making Parties

Pretty Girl Rocks Parties by Ayana Glaze, LLC are jewelry making parties for girls age 5 to 17. Girls get to design and make a custom bracelet with gemstones, glass, wood and other beads and embellishments.

I had the pleasure of hosting my very 1st Pretty Girl Rocks party for my daughter and I cannot begin to express the fun we had!  Ms. Ayana was punctual and very patient and engaging with the children. 

There were 6 girls gathered in my home for my daughters 9th Birthday Slumber Party. 

The jewelry making party lasted for approx 2 hours.  It was a fantastic way to break the ice for some of the girls that didnt know one another.  Ms. Ayana came in with all of her supplies and set up the table before we brought the girls in.

When they came in and saw all of the shiny baubles their faces lit up! 

I KNEW we were gonna have a good time!!!

Ms. Ayana started by introducing herself and followed by explaining what we would be doing. 

She then allowed each girl to choose between a pink or purple satin bag.  She explained to them the importance of storing jewelry to preserve it. 






The PGR jewelry making party was also very educational.  We learned about stones and minerals and how they are colored and formed.  It was very hands on.  The girls enjoyed being able to touch everything. 

We designed our own jewelry. 

At the end we got to keep our bracelets!

If you are looking for something fun and different to do, check out Pretty Girl Rocks ~ Jewelry Making Parties for Girls & Women.

Links:
PGR Website
PGR on FaceBook

Thanks for reading!

Sistah's Top 5 Leave In Conditioners

I consider myself to be the Queen of Wash N Go's.  Its my signature style.  Why? Oh I dont know.  Its quick, its easy.  No muss no fuss.  Right?  Well it wasnt always that way.  When I 1st went Natural it was the only style I knew.  The products that I was using back then were not condusive to a healthy WnG style.  The main reason is because they failed to keep my hair moisturized through out a day, which caused frizzy inconsistancies with my hair.   This issue is very important. If you want to rock a GREAT WnG you'll need to find a GREAT Leave In.  I look for products that will  assist my hair in retaining moisture, while remaining soft and touchable.  I also like it to smell good. I like flowery and/or fruity scented products.  When MY hair gets moisture it spirals and shines.  If can find a product that can make this last for a week, then I feel like its a good product.  I believe that my hair is thin type 4a/4b. It enjoys a thick, creamy, leave in conditioner. 

 5 Leave~ Ins that I LOVE and Why!

Oyin Handmade Honey Hemp Conditioner ~ This is my absolute favorite.  It smells AMAZING!  thats first.  Its marketed as a Conditioner that can also be used as a leave in.  Its organic.  I use this condish after every Wash/CoWash and under any other Leave In that I might be using.  Its the first thing that I apply to my damp hair. No special method, just a quarter size sized amount smoothed thru my hair from root to ends. I usually follow with another favorite. It seems to immediately seal in moisture by stopping my hair from dripping once applied.  Its not super thick.  I also use it to enhance some not so favorite products, if they are not doing what I want them to do.

Giovanni Direct Leave In Conditioner ~ I love, love, love this stuff.  I found this product when I was looking for an organic alternative to Mixed Chicks.  It works great alone, but also plays friendly with other products.  A little goes a long way with this product.  I usually shingle this in AFTER i have applied my Honey Hemp Condish and let my hair air dry.  I also use this to twist my lil Chicks hair (I add jojoba oil to it for her)  I love the way this leave in clings to my hair, it smells really good and seems to dry quicker than the rest.  Its nice and thick.  This product is certified organic and is sold at Whole Foods. 

Ohm Body Sweet Hair Pudding ~ I am so glad that I was recently introduced to this product!  (This is where my product Junkyism pays off!!!) Its a very thick strawberry yogurt looking cream. It comes in a jar and It smells divine. Not only does this product smell like a treat, its like a decadent treat for my hair.  It seems to grab and absorb into my hair, holding onto it while it dries. Leaving it super curly & soft to the touch.   (I have also used this product for a Bantu Knot out and got EXCELLENT results)

Kinky Kurly Knot Today Leave in/Detangler ~ I got this Leave In along with the Kinky Kurly Curling Custard.  Although the Custard did nothing for my hair, I found a gem in the Knot Today.  I am not sure if this one is organic or not.  I use it as a leave in. It smells great, it comes in a bottle so its not super thick, but very effective.  It dries leaving my hair soft and touchable, just the way I like.  Its not necessary to add anything to this conditioner, it works just fine all by itself.  You can get it at Whole Foods and Target.

EO Lavender & Aloe Conditioner ~  I was introduced to this conditioner by a friend on YouTube.  This product is not marketed as a Leave In.  Its an organic condtioner that smells absolutely heavenly, that is if you are a fan of Lavender like I am.  It works great for detangling, and I use it as a Leave-In also.  (I have never experienced and residue or build up from doing this).  This product plays very well with other products (especially Giovanni) Of course since I fell in love with this conditioner, they have reformulated it and its no longer being sold as "Lavender & Aloe".  Luckily, I was able to hit up EO's web warehouse special when they were getting rid of the old formula.  I wont tell you how much i got, but I will be using it for awhile (smiles).  While in TJ Maxx recently I was able to find some of their new formulation so I picked up bottles of Citrus & Vanilla Shampoo & Conditioner.  I'll have to let you know how it turns out!

What are some of your favs?

Thanks for Reading!

Peace :-)

World Natural Hair Show 2011 ~ Atlanta Events!

Being a Natural that lives in Atlanta has its advantages!  This hasn't been confirmed but I would say that Atlanta is the #1 hot spot for all things Natural Hair related.  We are the home of the World Natural Hair Health and Beauty Show after all.  Since 1995 this venue has brought professionals and consumers together to exchange and learn about Natural Hair care.  They will continue this tradition here in Atlanta, April 30th - May 1st 2011 and I cannot wait!

I attended this event last year with my family and we had a fantastic time.  Here is my vid!  Check it out! (Dont forget to disable the music player below 1st!)

Following the tradition set forth last year, I will also be attending the 2nd annual Pre Hair Show Party!!  The Lovely Ladies of Gorgeous Atlanta Naturals (Organizers ~ Curly Girl Lexi of Curls, Coils and Kinks, MahoganyBella of MahoganyKnots.com, & Adrienne Brown of Me, My Hair and the City) will be hosting a another fantasmic event.  This years theme: Curly Girls Rock!  This is an event that you DO NOT want to miss! 

For more information click here! https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=190594374314464&ref=mf

Other Natural Hair Happenings in ATL

Sage NaturalCeuticals is 3 years old!!

To celebrate, the owner Cindy Prim, will be hosting a three day event:

Thursday, March 24th 6pm - 8pm there will be a meet and greet with Nicha, creator of Ohm Body. Friday, March 25th, John Master's will be on-site 

Sunday March 27th, Lysandra of Darcy's Botanials & her stylist will be onsite.

If you are in Atlanta you MUST check this chic spot out.  I LOVE it there.  Check out my visit...

Well, I'd love to stay and blog longer... but i have to go and get ready!  I have to stop by Sage to pick up a few products... I still have to find the perfect outfit for Curly Girls Rock as well as a fly and versatile Natural Hair style for the World Natural Hair Health and Beauty Show!  Hope to see you there :-)

Thanks for reading!

Peace :-)

Milestone Anniversary & Marriage Reflections

My husband and I celebrated our 10 year anniversary in February.  To celebrate we decided to take an extended weekend to the Gulf Coast.  I love being near bodies of water.  Biloxi was a perfect choice for us plus its in driving distance (I hate flying).  So we both took a few days off work and hit the road.  I think that people underestimate the beauty and enjoyment of a nice car ride anymore.  Mississipi is only a 6 hour drive.  Car rides give you time to reflect, to meditate. There is something about scenery going by, about breathing different air. In light of it being a milestone anniversary I took advantage of this time.  The most beautiful thing about being married is being able to be quiet sometimes.  There is a certain security that comes with marriage and you dont have to ALWAYS be talking...but I won't get into all that.  I will say that I never thought in a million years that I would have what I have with my husband.  His unconditional love inspires me to be a better person.  I am happy to say that after 10 years of being his wife, I still get tingles when he refers to me as such.  I love him.  

Our 1st Date February 1990

When I met him I wasn't in a very good place.  Our love affair in the 90's didnt last very long.  We broke up :-(  Time & circumstances came between us back then....but it was a good thing, because we weren't ready! I always loved him though.  10 years later he looks me up.  I was single & so was he...  We played Intro's version of Stevie Wonder's "Ribbon In the Sky" at our wedding.



Our Wedding Day
February 2001

 Sure there have been downs, but the UPS have far outweighed them...



We brought these boys with us into the marriage. 
My 2 and his 1
They are brothers now



Our Daughter
(She is 3 in this pic)

Maybe some one said this...maybe i saw it somewhere...I cant remember but I'll say it anyway...

If true wealth could be measured in terms of love...I am one of the richest women there is.

Biloxi
February 2011

Our anniversary trip was serene, peaceful and calm. The weather was perfect & so were the views... True love vibes were present & positive energy to begin the next 10 years of this journey. 
I love me some him.


Thanks for reading :-)
Peace

Sistah SpotLight! ~ Tomoka's Twists

I have come into contact with so many interesting and wonderful people through Twitter.  Last year I met the lovely MiMi, of Tomoka's Twists (@TomokasTwists).  Tomoka's Twists has the most wonderful hair accessories and more!  If you check their website you will find earrings, bracelets, ties, twists, bows, clips etc.  What I love most about what I find is that each item is unique.  Yes, I am that Natural Hair Chick that adores some big hoops, earthy wooden bangles and earrings.  I love beads, stones & shells.  I also enjoy quality.  Its a must.  I was happy and excited to find that all of my needs could be met at Tomoka's Twists.  I recently ordered a lovely Twist and pair of earrings that I just adore already. 

This set is called "DNatural".  It consists of a beautiful Twist made with wooden beads and a gorgeous pair of large hoops to match.

Tomoka's Twists are made of flexible wire with protective outer casing.  These unique hair accessories are made to last...

I love the size of these earrings, they are stylish, sturdy and well made.  I think they absolutely make a statement about who I am.  Strong. Beautiful. Bold.

"Tomoka's Twists was established for the desires of the growing number of women embracing their natural hair to creatively and functionally to adorn their crowns. Tomoka's Twists are flexible, comfortable, and unique. Uncoil a Tomoka's Twists and let the creativity begin."

http://www.tomokastwists.com/ 

I ran into MiMi while attending the North Carolina Natural Hair expo last summer.  Check Out the vid for a demonstration on how to use the Twist!! (Dont forget to disable to Music Player below, by clicking on the Pause button)You can also go straight to her demonstration w/o watching the whole vid by clicking here 5:59

                                 

Thanks for reading!!
Peace :-)

Healthy Eating: 7 ~ Layer Salad Recipe

Although I did not make any New Years Resolutions (I never do) I have always (well at least tried) to eat right.  Lucky for me, I actually love salads and anything green, leafy.  I prefer it over sweets sometimes.  The 7 - Layer Salad is the perfect go to recipe for anyone trying to incorporate a little green into their lives.  The recipe is quick & simple, bold crunchy, creative & fun.  The idea is to layer 7 or more ingredients into a bowl with any kind of lettuce being the 1st layer.  Here is my recipe.

7 - Layer Salad

7 - Layer Salad
Ingredients ~
Romaine Lettuce (or whatever leaf you choose)
Cauliflower
Brocolli
1 Green Pepper
1 Red Onion
Frozen Sweet Peas
Miracle Whip
Sugar
5 cooked & crumbled strips of bacon or Hormel Bacon pieces
Shredded Cheddar Cheese
A Big Bowl to hold it all

Prep
(I didnt put exact measurements because thats your preference)

Chop your fresh/raw Broccoli & Cauliflower (I use about 2 cups each)
Finely slice your onion (about 5 or 6 thin slices)
Finely slice your green pepper (about 5 or 6 thin slices)
Thaw your sweet peas by running them under warm water (about 2 cups)
Cook & crumble your bacon

Now Layer
In a bowl empty your bagged lettuce
arrange your onions on top of that lettuce
arrange your green pepper on top of the onions
Cover the onions with the chopped cauliflower
Cover the chopped cauliflower with the chopped broccoli
Cover the chopped broccoli with the unthawed peas
The last layer is Miracle Whip, take a big spoon and use the back of it to spread this on top of the peas covering them.
Sprinkle about a tablespoon of sugar over the Miracle Whip
Top with the shredded cheese, followed by the crumbled bacon
(6-8 servings)

Shredded Cheddar & Bacon Garnish on 7 Layer Salad

Let this sit in the fridge for a couple hours and ENJOY!

Its a super fun, colorful, crunchy salad that sits ready to be eaten at anytime. Its a perfect addition to any meal, a quick snack, and even comfort food for some and its HEALTHY.  Feel free to modify to your own needs and have fun!

Thanks for reading!
Peace :-)

Natural Skin Care ~ ACV Toner

I have been using a wonderful Natural Toner these days! I really love the way my skin feels after using it. This is a wonderful follow up to The Oil Cleansing Method.  I am happy to say that I make this myself so not only do I know EXACTLY whats in it, but its virtually free compared to the prices of many commercial facial toners.  All of the ingredients in this recipe serve a specific purpose for my own skin & demographics.  I encourage you to play around with it to develop your own concoction.  It is achievable.

Natural Skin Toner

2 oz Apple Cider Vinegar
6 oz Water
6 drops Tea Tree Oil
4 drops of Peppermint Oil

Apply with a cotton ball after cleansing daily and allow it to dry before applying a moisturizer. (I use it following Oil Cleansing) Can also be used in between cleansings.

Apple Cider Vinegar helps to soften my hard water by lowering the PH level which balances it for my skin. It also appears to assist with tightening the pores and with fading blemishes.
Tea Tree Oil is an astringent, antibacterial it cleanses the skin, soothes inflammation
Peppermint Oil makes my skin feel cool & tingly.  I have also read that it helps to control oil by decreasing its production. 

Read more about The Oil Cleansing Method
http://thesistahcafe.blogspot.com/2010/10/natural-skin-care-oil-cleansing-method.html
or
Watch (Be sure to disable the Media Player below first)


  

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year Everyone!  2010 was a GREAT year and I am so looking forward to 2011.  I have never been big on making New Years resolutions, but I did say this in another venue...

"In 2010...I loved my kids unconditionally, I loved my Husband Endlessly, I treated my Parents Respectfully, I loved myself accordingly.... I cant wait for 2011!! The BEST is YET to come!!"

And the BEST IS YET TO COME!!

Check Out my Video ~ The SistahChick Presents 2010 ~ A Year in Review

Or You can watch it right here!  (Dont forget to disable the Music Player at the bottom 1st!)



Thank you for continuously checking out my Blog (The Sistah Cafe) as well as my other sites (Our Natural Kids, The SistahChicks Spot on You Tube)!! Wishing you a Blessed, Safe & Prosperous 2011!

Thanks for reading!

Peace :-)