Natural Hair in All its Glory

Looking through other blogs, I found this cool site displays photos of women and men with natural hair. It is absolute AWESOMENESS...please check out  lecoil and be inspired!!! I wanna how I can get on there I'm SO serious about that. : )  Also check out http://www.ilovemyhair.com/ for lovely artwork repping natural hair...when I have an abode all to myself, I will definitely invest in one of those pieces (particularly the kinky coily curly piece).

I just love my natural hair. I remember those days when all the girls at school would ask me why my hair was not permed. My mama just said to ask them why their hair was permed haha. I didn't say that though, I would say it just is....my parents don't want chemicals in our hair. They could laugh and whisper behind my back all they wanted to, but at least my hair was healthy and happy. I'm glad to have this lovely head full of 4a/4b kinky, coily hair...that coils up into the most beautiful curls when washed and is soft as cotton (my mother would say...like my great grandmother's hair). I vividly remember this boy who made a song about my hair..."she's strong and tough with her afro puffs", I couldn't have said it better. Be comfortable with you, be forever true to your identity and not to images digested and vomitted by the world. : )

Hmm

Soo, hmm, yeah, clearly I have nothing to blog about for the moment. Well, there is this one thing...just a word of encouragement, sometimes things may not go your way. You may wonder why is this happening to me, when will I ever get a chance to shine, and so forth. AHA! Stop with all the questions. Joyce Meyer said it best, "God wants our trust, not our questions." God knows what is best for you and me, and we just have to trust Him as He makes the way. No matter how the way is looking, He has your best interest in mind all the time. Just trust His course, He knows the best way to enforce the desires of your heart and the giftings in you. : )

♥ Chishinga Shira

So Grateful

Happy Thanksgiving! I love baking yummy treats, partaking in the feast, and spending time with my family. It is the grand day of thanks, but I encourage you (if you don't already) to give thanks everyday regardless of your circumstances. I am truly grateful for the Lord leading me and for being my peace during my post graduate journey. I am blessed with a loving and encouraging family...with amazing friends that I can call on even though we're far apart. I could go on and on. I hope your day was lovely, and I pray that you have an attitude of gratitude daily.

♥ Chishinga Shira

Me Likes!!!

I just love this dress, but it's kind of short (would have to pair it with some tights). I saw it at Forever 21 the other day, and I just might buy it. A nice holiday party dress and stunning earrings to complement it.

Distorted Floral Sheen Dress $22.80

Etched Dangling Earrings $4.80

Hot Stuff

This would be a cute outfit for a night out on the town. All pieces come from Forever 21 of course. : )

Quilted Moto Jacket $39.50 

 

Cobble Print Skirt $14.80

 

Segment Bootie $25.80

Hair Routine

When I get ready to style my hair in twists or another style, I follow this routine:

1) Spritz hair with water to remove any tangles from previous style (brush and comb out)
2) Wet hair and wash w/ Pantene Pro-V Relaxed & Natural Shampoo (twice)
3) Condition hair w/ Pantene Pro-V Relaxed & Natural Conditioner (deep conditioning every two weeks, sit under dryer for approximately 7-10 minutes)
4) Rinse out conditioner
5) Spray hair w/ Motion's leave in conditioner and Alaffia Virgin Coconut & Shea Enriching Hair Lotion and wrap in towel
6) Part hair into sections using clips/bobby pins and detangle by applying hair lotion and leave in conditioner as needed using a brush and wide tooth comb
7) Style as desired

Rockin the twists

Video Phone (Extended Remix) - Beyonce feat. Lady Gaga

Loving the remix! 

Beyoncé - New Music - More Music Videos

Bang Bang...Ms. Melanie Fiona

Fall Reading List

Here's a list of books I hope to be finished reading before December kicks in:

Sula by Toni Morrison
White Teeth by Zadie Smith
Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison
Baking Cakes in Kigali by Gaile Parkin
Sister Outsider by Audre Lorde
Three Plays (Ma Rainey's Black Bottom, Fences, Joe Turner's Come and Gone) by August Wilson
Wife of the Gods by Kwei Quartey

Regret by LeToya featuring Ludacris

From her album Lady Love! Love it!


Find more videos like this on LeToya

Staying in Love by Raphael Saadiq

I absolutely love his music and this song from his album The Way I See It.

My SHE-ro

Mrs. Michelle Obama is in the November issue of Glamour magazine. I just may have to buy it. : )

New Music Video...Fragile by Chrisette Michele feat. Wale

Fragile - Chrisette Michele

Nothing Really to Blog About...Loving My Hair and Thoughts for the Day

Plain and simple, I love my hair. Just twist it and let it go and flow.

*Be excited about your life, all day everyday, regardless of the situations you're facing. Encourage yourself to keep on and pursuing the desires of your heart.

*I love reading the Bridal Bliss articles on Essence. It's the loveliness, inspirational, keeping me expectant and overflowing with joy for that special day down the road. The story I read today made an important point....your mate is supposed to complement you, not complete you. Yes, indeed, that is the truth. He cannot feel those void places in you, only God can fill those cracks and crevices. He is the only one that can settle down and abide in your heart. (Ephesians 3:17-May Christ through your faith [actually] dwell (settled down, abide, make his permanent home in your hearts! May you be rooted deep in love and founded securely on love). His love is made complete in us (1 John 2:5, 4:12), and we just have to accept Him into our hearts. Just think of two complementary angles...they have to be at a certain degree in order to complement the other right? Yep, those angles have to be complete...one can't almost be 60 degrees. In order to be complete, you need to have your own identity-loving yourself and pursuing the plans God has for you. I believe those are the components ya need and he needs in order to be complementary.

*Being a lover of music, I enjoy listening to Instant Vintage by Raphael Saadiq (it's not his latest album, but it is funky, smooth, real and my album for the week). My favorite song from the album is Different Times. The lyrics are just right...."I told myself one day to fall on my knees and pray. I close my eyes and kept on pushing, just stopped looking, guess who showed up." Life cannot be lived without knowing Him. It simply doesn't work that way. God is all around us. He cares for you and me, loves you and me, wants the best for you and me, so make time everyday to say hi to the One who loves you without finding fault.

Cake Decorating Course 2

YAY!!! I finally completed my second cake decorating course:Flowers and Borders. Every class was spent making flowers to put on the final product, and here it is. I love cake decorating. I will definitely be putting my skills to good use and teaching myself more cake decorating techniques.

The Noisettes

I love The Noisettes...the singer Shingai Shoniwa is amazing, and I love her natural do. Check out the video below.

In Love with Another Man by Jazmine Sullivan

I never knew there was a music video to this song. Ms. Sullivan has some amazing vocals...great song and video. I feel sorry for the guy.

Looking Sexy

I think this a super sexy outfit for a night out on the town with the girls.

Surplice Knit Dress $12.50

Rider Cage Heel $20.80

What A Man, What A Man, What a Mighty Good Man

During my quiet time, I read this article called Faith for the Man He'll Become. It is a must read! As a young woman, I envision this exemplar model of man I'm supposed to marry based on the excellent role models of men in my life and the high expectations I've set (hmm...the lovely list). Of course, we know young men out there have flaws and all just like we do. With that being said, we do need to be discerning of the relationships we partake in with young men. In having these relationships, whether it be friendships or courting, we have to understand that their progress to being potential husbands and fathers comes with growth and encouragement. I love how the article mentions that as young women we should be looking for someone who pursues a trajectory of godliness. His intentions should consist of efforts to follow the requirements of masculine servant leadership in the Bible. For example, he must be self-controlled, respectable, welcoming to others, and gentle, just to name a few (See 1 Timothy 3:1-7, Acts 6:3, Titus 1:6-9). Just know he is a work in progress, and he wants to be the mighty good man for his wife and children. If he is loving Jesus, he is willing to give up things that are not pleasing to God and striving towards dwelling with God forever. As young women in Christ, we just have to be prayerful and encouraging every step of the way.

Love It...The Foreign Exchange

I'm just now hearing about The Foreign Exchange. I've been playing the Leave It All Behind album pretty much everyday this week. I love how each song flows into the other. It's great!!! My favorite song right now is Something to Behold.

You can listen to this loveliness on MySpace. Enjoy! Tootles.

Music I Need in My Tunes

I'm working on revising my personal statement for grad school, but I just thought I'd make a list of all the albums I would purchase.

The Bridge by Melanie Fiona
Let the Truth Be Told by Laura Izibor
The Way I See It by Raphael Saadiq
Ready by Trey Songz
Leave It All Behind by The Foreign Exchange
Love Unstoppable by Fred Hammond
Just James by J. Moss
Still by BeBe and CeCe Winans
Just Karima by Karima Kibble

Fro-Hawk

Here's the fro-hawk I did for the Enchanted Evening with Maxwell in concert. I twisted my hair the night before in medium size plaits after washing and deep conditioning it. The day of I took the twists a loose and finger combed through them and used some clear Motion's leave in conditioner cream. Then, I parted a small portion from the top, and the rest of my hair was put back in a banana clip. I then created the hump in the front with bobby pins. I love it!

My Hair

I've been planning to try new hair do's, but I really haven't, but looking at all these natural hair blogs inspire me to share my tips on natural hair care and try some new things. There are so many things you can do with your natural hair ladies, just have to be creative! I'm trying to get my hair to get some more length (my hair reaches my clavicles), so keeping my hair in protective styles is a must. Well, here are a few looks I love to do, working my curls in updo's with bobby pins! Tomorrow, I shall try a frohawk for a concert I'm going to...so excited!!!

 

 

Melanie Fiona Mixtape

Love it! I can't wait til her album The Bridge comes out in November!

Cute Shoes

I would love to buy these shoes....Purple Suede from Steve Madden Merriee. Price: $90.00

Raphael Saadiq Performing in the NPR Tiny Desk Concert Series

I love his music...if only I could seem him in concert in person. : )

Heard Em All by Amerie

Heard Em All - Amerie

Fall Gear

These are some cute cardigans that can be paired w/ a dress and a nice pair of heels or flats and pearl necklace and high waisted belt. You can check them out at Forever 21.com. I want to buy them all, but I made a promise to myself not to spend money on clothes.

 

Cropped Polka Dot Cardigan $22.80

 

Argyle Sweater $22.80

 

Lace Trimmed Bouquet Cardigan $22.80

 

Racerback Dress $24.80

Preacher's Kid In Theaters October 30th

This movie will be coming out October 30th and features LeToya Luckett and Kierra Sheard, just to name a few. Check out the trailer:

Check out this devotional chicas!

There is a new devotional for young women in their 20's called She Seeks! I look forward to reading it every Monday. I'm glad that there is sound spiritual advice and encouragement that young women can relate to. Today's focus was on mentoring young girls. I think it is important to be an example to young girls. They need someone that has been at that age not too long ago to show them the way. Being the oldest of five siblings, my sisters and brother are definitely looking up to me, especially my youngest sister who is in the sixth grade. Just the other day, she attempted to wear her hair like mine, too cute! I encourage you to check it out and include it in your quiet time (personal time with God). Check out this link at: http://sheseeks.org/home/

These Are the Times

I love this song! This video is cute...eat you up like Reeses Pieces has to be my favorite part.

I'm Glad I Kept My Receipt

This music video is cute. I've never heard of this artist, so I take it she is starting her music career. Her name is Priscilla Renea and the song is called Dollhouse. Check it out. I can only share the link...http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TCOnX40rf8Q&feature=featured

No Mas Comprando

I spent just a few dollars today at Old Navy on a graphic tee for $5.00 and a nice sweater for $8.99 which came out to a total of $15.14, but I really need to stop buying clothing articles b/c I'm not working at the moment (but hopefully, I will be working in the next week or so). Even though, I have money in the bank, I need to save up moolah for more important things. I'm making a promise to myself to not spend any more money on clothes for let's see the next 2 months (even though something in Forever 21 may catch my fancy. I have enough clothes in my closet as it is and being the fashionista I am, I can spicen things up in my wardrobe...with the essentials and all that jazz. I just happened to be looking on Glamour magazine's website and they give tips on how to shop smarter....Check out the link at http://www.glamour.com/fashion/2009/09/7-ways-to-be-a-smarter-chicer-shopper#slide=1. I'll list the tips here though for ya:
1. Buy a dress you can wear a million ways
2. Spend within your means
3. Rewear and reuse your stuff with pride
4. Know what you own (down to your socks)
5. Get the trends - for less
6. Never have buyer's remorse again!
7. Before you buy, ask yourself am i really itching to wear this, will I wear it next month, next season, next year?

Dress Time

Gia Strappless Dress $24.80 at Forever 21

Belted Colorblock Dress $22.80 at Forever 21

Belted Surplice Dress $22.80 at Forever 21

I love classy things and these dresses are fit for a classy affair, so I just had to share! : )

Successful

Loving this video w/ Drake and Trey Songz...well done!

Drake and Trey Songz |MTV Music

Cake Decorating

For the past four weeks, I have been taking a cake decorating class at Michael's. Today was the last day for Course 1-Discover Cake Decorating. I'll be taking the next three courses...I'll definitely be a pro by the end of the year. Here are some pics of the cakes I've decorated.

Class 2

Class 3

Class 4

Love Her Music

I love Algebra Blessett's music, her album Purpose is on point. It's been out since last year. You should check it out...gotta love it.

Controversy...Why Can't I Sing About Love?

This is a real issue...is it wrong to listen to secular music or to sing it as a Christian? I think that it is okay to sing and listen to R&B and other forms of music like hip hop/rap, jazz, etc. as long as it has positive message...not something that would inflict harm upon your body, heart, and soul. Gospel music has the purpose of spreading the loveliness of Jesus Christ. At the same time, is there something wrong with singing about love & relationships that are pure and true, not provoking temptations. You just have to be careful to what you let in...guard your heart. Any thoughts? I may blog more on this later.

Reminisce

I just heard this song playing on the radio...Reminisce by Mary J. Blige.

Vestidos

Here are some cute dresses to add to your dress collection from Forever 21:

Scooped L/S Dress $24.80

Fab Colorblock Dress $13.50

Post Graduate Life

A thought..."Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you." - 1 Peter 5:7

As of August 17, 2009, I have embarked on the third month of post graduate life. I must say it is great to be free from the rigors of undergraduate life, but I loved UVA and I miss it (more so missing the trees, the lovely peeps I met, and the experiences I gathered). Now, I can't go back to being an undergrad. Tear. However, I am growing in this time (while I am home temporarily). I've been applying for jobs constantly, studying for the GRE, making decisions and considering options for my future. I do say I want to be a physician, but sometimes I feel like I can go in another direction with my life with the skills and gifts I possess. I would love to do multiple things, but I can't be superwoman. I'm working to simplify my complexities, but there's so much in me that could be a blessing to others.

As I was telling someone on the phone the other day, I've wanted to be a doctor since I was in the second grade. However, as I reflect on that choice from whence I was quite young, I also must consider my motivation behind wanting to be a doctor at the time. It could have been for the money at the time, but now I see my desire to be a doctor as a service, of helping underprivileged families receive proper health care...educating people about chronic diseases and promoting healthy eating behaviors. There is no need to worry. I know God will lead me in the way that He requires me to go forth and would not have me to do something I didn't want to do. Wherever I go, He is with me. He keeps me. He renews me. He strengthens me.

I share this with you to encourage to not give up or give in. You may be a post graduate...looking for job/even have a job/pursuing graduate school and still trying to decide what exactly is it that you're going to do. People are nagging you here and there. You don't want to disappoint yourself or those surrounding you. Aha! The thing is...do NOT put your heart's desires in your own hands or in control of other people, you have to give your desires to God, that they may align with the plan He has for your life. I definitely encourage you to have a goal book...write down your goals, all your hopes, dreams, and aspirations and look at them everyday so you can be reminded of what you are here to do, so that you will keep your eyes on the prize, and pray that God will guide you. Things you are passionate about don't rest upon your heart for no reason at all. God gives it to you!!!

It certainly helps to have a plan...In Habakkuk 2:2, God answered: "Write this.Write what you see. Write it out in big block letters so that it can be read on the run. This vision-message is a witness pointing to what's coming. It aches for the coming—it can hardly wait! And it doesn't lie. If it seems slow in coming, wait. It's on its way. It will come right on time. (The Message)" God's got it! He knows your ins and outs, your flaws and all. In order to hear what He is saying to you, you have to be prepared by spending time in His word and seeking His face day in and day out. He will fulfill the desires of your heart on His timing....we just have to be willing to give all our fears and worries to Him and trust, hope, pray, and persevere in all our doings, that we give our best!

On the Ocean

I love this song by K'Jon-On the Ocean. Enjoy!

Get to Know Me

I love putting this random stuff up on my blog...

9 things about yourself:
1. I have a birthmark in the shape of an island on my back.
2. If I were to do a MD/PhD program, I would get my PhD in Africana Studies.
3. I don't think it should be an option to cook on Friday nights...oh my family.
4. I watch Tiny & Toya and the Real Housewives of Atlanta.
5. I can't wait for the premiere of Project Runway.
6. Thinking of going into modeling...I certainly have the legs for it.
7. I'm not a fan of pets, no dogs, cats, etc. in my house. When I was little, I wanted a bunny rabbit though.
8. I love cheesecake...the turtle cheesecake to be exact.
9. I'm taking a cake decorating class and it is so much fun.

8 ways to win your heart:
1. Make me a home cooked meal.
2. Buy be a box of Nestle Turtles...I'll love you forever.
3. Sing a Case/ KC and Jojo/ Boyz II Men song on key.
4. Engage in real, deep, & intelligent conversation.
5. Have fun roller skating.
6. Love Jesus! : )
7. Love me for me.
8. Really know how to dance with me.

7 things that cross my mind often:
1. I need to get out this house
2. I need to workout
3. I wish I could buy everything from Forever 21
4. So tired of these ants coming in the house
5. Time is flying
6. I wonder how so and so is doing
7. Bold, Confident, Strong, Pressing On

6 things you do before you go to bed:
1. Shower
2. Brush, floss, and wash my mouth out with Listerine
3. Read
4. Write in my journal
5. Listen to music
6. Pray

5 people you couldn't live without:
1. My Heavenly Father
2. Grandmother Augustine & Grandmother Norma
3. Parents
4. Siblings
5. Mis Chicas

4 things you're wearing right now:
1. Scarf from Ghana
2. Hope shirt from Forever 21
3. Black tee
4. Comfy, lounge pants

3 songs that fit your life:
1. Psalm 27 by Joann Rosario
2. God in Me by Mary Mary
3. Single Ladies by Beyonce

Been Thinking About...

Time is flying by way too fast. My birthday is just around the corner, and I will be 22 years of age. Crazy isn't it? I'm being patient about the plans for my life falling into place, but it can be so frustrating some times. I want my job now, but I know it will take time. I'm glad God is keeping me through it all (without Him, I just wouldn't be) and showing me the way day in and day out. Each day is an opportunity, and I thank God for it. I have no reason to be down and out. I must continue to be hopeful, joyful, and optimistic.

I need to work on being more focused and assertive in what I desire to do. A few things...
*Studying for the GRE is a must. I need to stop putting off studying and just knock out practice tests daily and be ready to take the exam in September to get an amazing score and enter a MPH in Maternal and Child Health.
*Learning and understanding the human body through chemistry, biology, physics, and organic chemistry is a must in order for me to be absolutely prepared for medical school and the MCAT. I need to take more of an initiative in reviewing material daily.

Summer is almost over, oh no, the last things to get on my to do list:
*Scrapbook....definitely haven't gotten to that yet
*Getting back into the habit of practicing the piano daily...at least 30 minutes
*More pilates
*Finishing my summer reading list
-If I don't get it done, I still have the rest of the year to do it. Hehe.

Another thing, boys, boys, please grow up. Thanks. I would really appreciate some maturity on your part.

One more thing, why have so many of my high school classmates gotten married/had kids/both?
I'm too young to be getting married or having kids. The earliest I can see myself getting married is around 25 and the latest 28. I have things to do, and marriage is not one of those options...getting that M.D. and M.P.H. and maybe PhD. are at the forefront. It's like my mama said, "you don't need to be married until you get your PhD," funny isn't it?

On some realness though, I need my education and career to be on track before I can make that transition. I don't mind being in a committed relationship with my VISA card on lock and key, but marriage will have to come four years into the relationship. Is that just me? I mean, we all have different standards, but as for me, I gotta get what's mine. Independent woman...meaning I should be able to buy my own house, car, clothes, etc. without the boo. I know relationships come with sacrifices, but my livelihood will not be on hold. And it's crazy, I pray for my future mate as a single lady b/c it's necessary...I pray for him to be seeking God's face and pursuing God's will for His life. Cute isn't it? Hehe.

I have kids alright, younger siblings and lots of baby cousins. They keep me lifted and pursuing my dreams. I don't need any precious ones right now.

Most Girls

I love this song from Pink back in the day. Her music was great back then. Well, at least I think so. My favorite part of the song...I'm not every girl, best believe it!

New Do

So here's a new do I tried called the wash and go. All you need is your hands and bobby pins. It is very simple. Here is a link to page with the you tube clip on how to do it: http://keepitkinky.blogspot.com/2009/04/wash-and-tuck-style.html

side view

back view

Amerie Comeback

Yay! I'm excited for Amerie's new album, In Love and War, coming out August 11th. It's been so long since One Thing...that was my jam. Here is the video to her single, Why R U. Enjoy!

It's August...Oh No, Oh Yeah

I can't believe it is already August. Summer is flying by. Where does the time go? I'm glad it's August because it's my BIRTHDAY month...August 15th, there's a tax free weekend in Texas, I can wish other August babies Happy Birthday, complete my summer reads, get some quilting in, and it's back to school for all the children out there. And I'll be taking a cake decorating class starting this Thursday, every Thursday in August. I'm so excited! I've always wanted to learn and now I have the chance. BUT, there is also this uncertainty lingering over mi cabeza as to what exactly I'll be doing. I know plans will fall into place...I just have to be patient, prayerful, and joyful regardless of the uncertainties, rather endless opportunities awaiting a post graduate as myself.

I could be working part time and be enrolled as a post baccalaureate student completing pre-medical requirements OR I could be working full time while learning and understanding the course material independently. Then, I would proceed to take the courses during the Spring. So what is a sister to do? Be bold, confident, strong, and pressing on. Just have to keep on keeping on with my eyes on the prize. As Psalm 27:13-14 says, I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.

AYO

This artist is incredible. Ayo is soulful and real. Her voice is unique and sweet, and the lyrics of her songs speak volumes. I hope she comes on tour in the States because I will definitely be at her concert front and center. I'm just now exploring her music, but she's been around since 2007. She has an album out by the name of Joyful. It's only $8.99 on Amazon. I think I'll buy it eventually or you can listen to it for free on Myspace of course. Take a look at these videos. Enjoy!

Natural Hairstyles

I found a great blog with natural hairstyles. You'll be amazed with all the hairstyles you can do, now won't you. Check it out at: http://keepitkinky.blogspot.com/search/label/Hairstyle
AND http://www.mynhcg.com/ is a great site for networking and getting inspiration from other chicas with natural hair.

My Favorite Looks from the Twist Collection

Once again, I'm putting dresses on my blog, these are specifically from Forever 21's Twist Collection.

Pintucked Bow Chiffon Dress, $22.80

Ruffled Petal Dress, $27.80

Lace Colorblock Dress, $24.80

Mas Vestidos!

This dress is just stunning w/ the colorful geometric shapes. It's a must have!

Geo-Dress w/ Belt-$24.80 at Forever21.com (from the Love 21 collection)

Dress Obsession

I think this dress is cute. I wasn't too fond of this dress until I saw it in the store. It does look nice and contains a nice mix of purple and blue.

Peacock Feather Print Dress, $22.80

Now, this dress is unique with a mix of orange and blue (great for a UVA event).

Painted Puff Dress, $24.80

New Music Video: What You Do

Here is the new video from Chrisette Michele's latest album Ephiphany: What You Do. I love this song and Derwin from the recently canceled show on CW, The Game, is in it. Enjoy!

Is This True of Me?

I decided to take some blogthing quiz about my birth month. It said the following:

Ambitious and strong, you find it easy to be successful. (True)
You are brave and stubborn. No one's going to set your limits! (True, but no so much stubborn)
Your soul reflects: Strength, character, and devotion (True)
Your gemstone: Peridot
Your flower: Poppy
Your colors: Orange, red, and light green (my color happens to be purple!)

One More Thing

I love Target. There is a wonderful collection by a designer named Dror for bedding and all that jazz for college folks. This bedding collection would be perfect me because I love purple and butterflies...definitely plan on getting this for my room in a far away land at graduate school (when it goes on SALE of course). Price Range: $19.99-$59.99

Addicted to Purple

Sooo I'm addicted to everything purple, the usual. Looking on Forever 21.com as usual, I found this dress, but it's kind of short. I don't know if I would actually wear it...would be my freakum dress as Beyonce calls it LOL.

Abstract Shapes Dress, $10.80

Favorite Quotes

"We're all imperfect, and life is simply a perpetual, unending struggle against those imperfections."
-Sidney Pottier

"[Life] is a big sea full of many fish. I let down my nets and pulled. I'm still pulling." -Langston Hughes

"I wish to live because life has within it that which is good, that which is beautiful and that which is love. Therefore, since I have known all of these things, I have found them to be reason enough and—I wish to live. Moreover, because this is so, I wish others to live for generations and generations and generations." -Lorraine Hansberry

"The greatest gift is not being afraid to question." -Ruby Dee

"Service is the rent that you pay for room on this earth." -Shirley Chisholm

**Just know that God has given a purpose to each person here on this earth. It is up to us to follow His lead along the journey. Through the ups and downs, He is there to carry you.

Oohh I Like This

I saw this list on another blog (Thoughts of an ADHD Drama Queen) and thought it would be a rather exciting post. So here goes...

What's your current obsession? Floral dresses and skirts...I absolutely adore them right now, if I could get every one I wanted I would be a happy chica.

What's your must have fashion need? Right now, would have to be summery skirts, solid, patterns, flowing, whatever, as long as I can breathe.

What are you wearing right now? I'm wearing a red skirt and a black tank top with gold hoop earrings and a heart necklace.

What's your favorite food? That's hard to answer...I have lots of favorite foods...red beans & rice. curry w/ roti. jambalaya. crawfish fettuccine. crawfish etoufee. gumbo. fried catfish.

What do you do for fun? dance like nobody's watching. hang out w/ my chicas. read a good book. watch a movie. bake from scratch. roller skate. shop/window shop. scrapbook. sing my jams.

What made today special? My little sister Neema turned 11 today and we had a blast at the skating rink, and then I was finally able to eat Popeye's Chicken! (I haven't had it in like a year!)

What would you like to learn to do? I would really like to learn to quilt. I started making this quilt in VBS (Vacation Bible School) in 7th grade, and I NEVER did finish it. With time willing, I would like to finish it and learn to do all kinds of intricate designs and keep the tradition going in my family by learning from my great aunt Norma.

What's the last thing you bought? The last thing I bought was a red skirt from Forever 21 and some sweat pants from aerie (on sale of course).

What are you listening/watching right now? B'Day Deluxe Edition...Deja Vu

What's your favorite weather? bright sunny weather, not humid, with a cool breeze running through my hair, no need for a sweater

What's your one goal in life? Hmm....to grow daily to better myself so I can be a blessing to others (improve the health and well being of peeps)

If you could have a house totally paid for, what would it look like? Hmm, I guess it would be a nice mansion, with a balcony, porch, a big kitchen...lovely purple violets in the front of course.

What would you like to have in your hands right now? The keys to car of my own...toyota corolla, prius, camry, sumthin nice : )

If you could swap lives with anyone in the world for one day who would it be and why? I would swap lives with Michelle Obama b/c she is a classy woman, like myself, who has a lovely family and gets the job done...I just want to know, how she does it all and keeps pressing on.

If you could go anywhere in the world for the next hour where would you go? For the next hour, how about the next year, LOL. I would love to be in Cape Coast, Ghana right now enjoying the beach and interacting with people and working in a community based clinic.

What language would you like to learn? Well, I know Spanish (reading and writing are my strengths), but I definitely need to work on speaking it fluently b/c it will be crucial for my future. A language to learn..French/Creole Patois b/c it would be fun to learn and be beneficial if I ever traveled to a French speaking country in the African Diaspora (Haiti, Mali, Ivory Coast, Guinea, Senegal,so forth and so on). I've been to St. Lucia (familia there), but they don't really speak French even though they were ruled by the French at some point. I would also like to learn Tri and Fante...languages in Ghana. And also Swahili, Portuguese, and the dialect of Chishinga, part of language in Zambia. How cool is that?

What do you look for in a friend? A trustworthy & classy person

Who do you want to meet in person? Barack and Michelle (saw her speak at my school but I wouldn't say I actually met her) Obama. Oprah Winfrey. Nikki Giovanni (one of my favorite poets). Idris Elba (hehe). Mario (my future husband). Black women physicians.

What's your favorite type of music? I love lots of music, that list would be kinda long to name all my favorite artists. Genres include R&B, Neo-Soul, Gospel, Some Hip Hop/Rap. Jazz. Pop.

What's your dream job? To be a pediatrician (community health, preventative, and holistic oriented focus) and entrepreneur (baker/cake decorator/party planner) and researcher + historian (researching my family history and the lives and works of black folks).

Describe your personal style? I would say I'm sophisticated and chic with my style. I've been called diva several times b/c I always make sure to look good when I step out the house. Nothing can be out of place. I dress to impress myself, nobody else.

What's your favorite t.v. show? I wouldn't say I have an absolute favorite. I enjoying watching the Game, the Office, Private Practice, Grey's Anatomy, and House just to name a few.

What's your favorite dessert? Ohh, that's hard...peach cobbler topped with vanilla ice cream or my Grandmother's pound cake...an absolute delicacy

What's your favorite makeup brand? Don't have one really...I don't really wear make up except lip gloss and eye shadow w/ lip color on occasions

What's your all time favorite perfume? Don't have one, I love Victoria Secret's Body Sprays...Love Spell, Pure Seduction

What's something that you don't currently like about yourself? The bottom of my feet...summer weather and my feet just don't go together

What's you fondest childhood memory? Eating fried catfish and french fries when I visited my grandparents in Louisiana and riding in the red pickup truck.

What would you do w/a major lottery winning? Buy myself a car, a new computer, my own place, pay off my loans, and start my bakery

If you had to pick a song for your funeral/memorial service, what would you choose? I have no idea, not something I think about.

If you had the power to grant one person a wish ANY wish, who would it be and why? I would grant the little girl who gave me a hug that day on the Cape Coast in Ghana her wish b/c she embraced me, if that isn't representative of God's Love, I don't know what is. : )

LoVeLy

Loving this dress (certainly including a hint of purple)...Floral satin dress $22.80 at Forever 21

Birthday Dress

I think this dress will be absolutely amazing for my 22nd birthday if I can go anywhere ehh umm. In stores at Express, originally $79.50, now 50% (at least it is online).

Oooh La La

I love Forever 21 a bit too much. Last Friday, I bought a nice summery skirt from there again (somebody stop me). This dress is cute. I love the floral work going on, dabbed with some fuschia (a shade of purple of course), my favorite color of them all. Doesn't it look heavenly?





Gracie Floral Chiffon Dress $24.80

Great Devotional: Soul Man

Check out this devotional blog called Soul Man by Pastor Marvin Williams. I enjoy reading it! Today I read about:
Finding a Soul Mate is Overrated

Posted using ShareThis

My thoughts on "Finding A Soul Mate is Overrated":

At times, I do believe that God has this one specific guy out there for me, but then again, no because I have all these expectations of who this guy is supposed to be. Guys today are just plain weird and confusing, but I don't want to get on that note.

And I do not to be worrying about finding a soulmate in the first place. He is supposed to be looking for me, chasing for me, not the other way around. I have better things to do with my time. Plus, as an unmarried woman I am concerned with the Lord's affairs (1 Corinthians 7:34). Whenever the time comes, it will come, no need to worry.

And a relationship requires LOVE. Now what is love? Check out 1 Corinthians 13. Love always protects, always trust, always hopes, always perseveres (v.7). So...love is just not this form of affection...oh I love you sooo much and we can live in a fairy tale happily ever after...definitely no. As Pastor Williams said in his blog, it is an action verb. It requires doing...growing with your boo, understanding their needs, sacrificing your wants, getting through ups and downs, so forth and so on. And through that, your boo can become your soulmate? Never thought of it that way, I suppose so, I wouldn't know. Any thoughts?

Obama in Ghana

I happened to come across an article on BBC News, my number one source on current affairs, describing President Barack Obama's visit to Ghana. I'm excited that Obama and his lovely family are visiting Ghana (if only I was there). They are going to visit the Cape Coast and see the slave castle, which is a very touching experience. I remember being in Ghana earlier this year. It was an exciting time because their presidential election was occurring. Ghanaians love Obama and equated him with their elected President Atta Mills. Ghana is a great example of a democratic country in Africa that encounters no violence after an election. The family will have memories for a lifetime. You can check out the article at: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/8145121.stm

Good Day

I'm glad the life of Michael Jackson was celebrated in a respectable, dignified manner on today. It was four hours of pure loveliness. People spoke about the memories they had of Michael and sang so beautifully. He will truly be missed, but he is now resting peacefully with God in heaven above, not having to deal with the pressures of this world any longer. May Michael sing in heaven above with the angels.

The Worst Video Ever Had

I enjoy listening to Drake's music, but the music video for the "Best I Ever Had" was awful, absolutely distasteful, makes you sick to your tummy. Drake should not have allowed Mr. Kanye West to produce his video. It made no sense whatsoever. It was a disgrace to women who respect their being from head to toe. The women in the video had their breasts hanging all out, it was pointless, nothing to do with the song. A basketball game really? Ummm, Kanye has brought him down a notch. The video should have been based on a relationship with the special chica in his life. Oh well, I hoped he learned his lesson because this video gets no love from me, and whoever does like it must be some kind of pervert.

Drake |MTV Music

Natural Hair Do

I tried to do something different with my hair, an up do of sorts. I twisted my hair, and flat twisted one side on the front, put the twists on rollers, and VOILA! my vivacious hair style. You like? Try it for yourself or better yet, don't, I like to be original (just kidding). Sharing is caring.