2 for 1: An Angry Rant and My First Time with Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Leave-in Conditioner!

I am always open to ideas and thought on my natural hair since it is uncharted territory for me. I decided to canvas almost every natural guru I could find on Facebook, YouTube and every natural hair care website. I have been told that using a light leave in conditioner would be a great idea on the days when I didn't use a protein conditioner. I am a big fan of protein conditioners since it helps with damaged hair and makes hair stronger but also it weighed down my hair after awhile. I wanted my hair to be a little bit more light and fluffy. So I decided to take the advice of the NATURALS who came before me and search for a light conditioner for my curly crown.

Just a little back story on buying this product:

I went to the cashier and asked for a light conditioner. She showed me everything from organic stuff to stuff that could possibly turn me into a mutant superhero. Then I saw it! Sitting by itself on the shelf. The last one. It stuck out like a sour thumb and was calling my name. Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Leave-in Conditioner. Garnier would never be my first choice but I decided to take a chance. I take it up to the counter and take out my reward card and debit card ready to purchase my new leave in conditioner when all of a sudden I see the cashier staring at me like I was a twelve year old buying condoms.I have seen her a lot since I frequent the Rite Aid so much that I know the general managers name by heart. This nice older African American lady whom I have told before about my journey and explained how I got my hair to grow was now screw facing me like I pissed on her cat.I said hello and asked her what was wrong.

Then she came out and said something so unsurprising yet it still took me aback. She said " Why are you using this? I thought this was kind of a ...i don't know...white product...That isnt for black people honey!" Now I cant believe she actually said that! I know we all have that in our head about certain things but to actually say it killed my respect for her. I decided to just say "I just want to try something new!" I really didn't feel like I had to answer her but I did anyway. I left so fast that I almost left a dust trail.We all need to let go of the line between black hair products and white hair products.

 NOT ALL AFRICAN AMERICAN PEOPLE USE GREASE OR PERMS AND NOT EVERY PRODUCT WITH A FANCY NAME OR FROM EUROPE IS FOR CAUCASIAN! I CAN USE ANYTHING I PLEASE ON MY HAIR AS LONG AS IT WORKS!! GET OVER THE BS PLEASE & THANK YOU!!

Back to our original story :

 I paid for it, went home and deep conditioned my hair. I decided on a wash and go since it was simple and I was already exhausted from being at work all day. It made my hair feel silky and curly and just downright amazing.It was lightweight and smooth. No residue! Smelled wonderful! For not being my first choice, it was the best choice. I recommend it as a substitute for all those heavy protein based leave ins. It is actually an amazing product and I give it a 10 out of 10. You should try it! Well Im gone for the night.

Much love,

Tori P.

Check Info Below:

For a smooth look and lasting frizz-control against frizzy, dry, unmanageable hair. Argan oil from Morocco and apricot soaks deep into frizzy, dry hair to smooth each strand. For hair that shines with all its strength.

• Stay 10x smoother*
• Fights frizz for 48 hours*
• Effective even in 97% humidity*

*In a frizz test when using Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine System of Shampoo, Conditioner and Anti-Frizz Serum vs. a non-conditioning shampoo.

Made in USA

Apply a quarter-sized portion to damp or dry hair. Distribute throughout hair. Do not rinse. For best results use with the Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine System of shampoo, conditioner and leave-in.
© 2011 Garnier, LLC
(Source: http://www.walgreens.com/store/c/garnier-fructis-sleek-&-shine-conditioning-cream/ID=prod6071668-product?V=G&ext=bng_Bing_Beauty&CAID=dd6ecfff-8acf-45ff-8985-cee65f92b52e )

Ingredients
Aqua (Water) , Cetearyl Alcohol , Amodimethicone , Cetyl Esters , Behentrimonium Chloride , Pyrus Malus Extract (Apple Fruit Extract) , Fragrance , Isopropyl Alcohol , Trideceth-6 , Argania Spinosa Oil (Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil) , Niacinamide , Pyridoxine HCI , Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil (Apricot Kernel Oil) , Citric Acid , Saccharum Officinarum Extract (Sugar Cane Extract) , Chlorhexidine Dihydrochloride , Benzyl Alcohol , Cetrimonium Chloride , Linalool , Butylphenyl Methylpropional , Citronellol , Cl 19140 (Yellow 5) , Citrus Medica Limonum Peel Extract (Lemon Peel Extract) , Cl 15985 (Yellow 6) , Camellia Sinensis Extract (Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract)

(Source: http://www.walgreens.com/store/c/garnier-fructis-sleek-&-shine-conditioning-cream/ID=prod6071668-product?V=G&ext=bng_Bing_Beauty&CAID=dd6ecfff-8acf-45ff-8985-cee65f92b52e )

Organix Renewing Moroccan Argan Oil Treatment Review

 My hair was dong so good before the colder months. Now that they are here in full force, I'm looking even harder for something to keep my hair moisturized, detangled and growing! I am always looking for the better product. Some things that will be ...I don't know....The perfect products for me! I walked the aisles of Rite Aid ((which has become an addiction! I'm in love with this store!)) and noticed a whole section of Organix.Now Ive heard awesome things about Organix in the past few months.So since it was buy one get one free ((I'm a sucker for a sale)), I decided to buy the Organix Renewing Moroccan Argan Oil Treatment! There was a lady looking at it and she said she has been using it for a couple of months and she just absolutely loves it. Her hair was a 4b from the looks of it and I'm a combination 4a and 4b so I decided it was worth a try. Her hair was in a huge afro and looked so healthy.

I brought it home and decided to use it as a deep conditioner along with Renpure Organics Amazing Miracle Deep Penetrating Reconstructor Conditioner. It was not what I expected it to be as far as consistency. It was creamy and smooth. When I think of oil, I think of ....well....OIL! An Oily substance! SOMETHING ! But no...it was better then what I expected!!! I also liked the fact that it didn't leave a residue and did its job! The smell was amazing ((I cant say that about the majority of things I use in my hair))! I left it in for thirty minutes with a heat wrap. I rinsed it out and felt the difference in my hair! I haven't co washed my hair in about a week so it was long overdue. It felt like silk and it was so easy to comb through. I completed my twist with Shea Moisture Organic Coconut and Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie and let them air dry. I am amazed by the way they look and feel! I will keep you all updated on this product! This was just my first round with it but I hope I have found a new staple product!

Much Love,
Tori P. 

Description

This rare formula has a centuries-old history of providing natural vitamin E and antioxidants while renewing your hair's cell structure, sealing in shine, and creating lush softness. A precious blend of Moroccan argan oil which instantly penetrates the hair shaft restoring shine and softness while strengthening. Derived from the southwest region of Morocco, argan oil protects from styling heat and UV damage while creating soft, seductive, silky perfection.

Directions

Scoop a small amount of Organix Moroccan Argan Oil Renewing Treatment into palm and evenly distribute with a wide tooth comb from your hair¿s roots down to the ends. Leave Organix Moroccan Argan Oil Renewing Treatment in hair for 3-5 minutes. Product performance is enhanced by placing a shower cap over hair and wrapping cap with a hot, wet towel. Rinse with mild to cool water. For best results, use with other Organix Moroccan Argan Oil products.

 

 

Ingredients

Water Behentrimonium chloride Cetyl alcohol CETEARYL ALCOHOL N DIMETHICONE 200 (DIMETHICONE 200 FLUID) DC-200 CYCLOMETHICONE D4 Glycerine Ceteareth-20 Glycol stearate Polyquaternium-11 Dimethiconol Fragrance (Irritating to eyes) Lanolin oil Simmondsia chinensis extract Panthenol Argania Spinosa Oil Tetrasodium EDTA Dmdm hydantoin Methylchloro isothiazolinone and Methyl isothiazolinone solution

 

Info Based on : http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?productId=xlsImpprod2690027

Colon Health and How it Effects Weight Loss

Im always looking for ways to lose weight and be healthy at the same time. I starting searching Youtube for extra dieting help or as I like to call it A LIFESTYLE CHANGE boost. I came across this video that was uploaded by ImpatientDieter. What caught my eye was the message underneath the video which stated:

"Want to lose 5 to 20 pounds? Well, that's what the average person is carrying around right now in the form of waste in their colon. YUCK! Those of you who go days on end without a "movement," are doing damage to every system in your body... and you're on the road to doing a bad Elvis Presley impression. Not to mention, Colon Cancer is the 2nd leading killer cancer for Americans. We definitely need to get serious about our colon health!"

Im all about healthy bodies and healthy minds! I looked at this video and it explained the importance of colon health and how it could effect your overall being. For example, she says it could also clear up pimples, help out asthma, decrease fatigue and help out with poor concentration. So I decided that at some point I would concentrate on my colon health. Not only for my weight loss but to help my overall health. I found Rite Aid Brand Fiber Tablets for Weight Management (( They were buy one get one free! Im a sucker for a sale )) and decided to try it! I have lost about 4 pounds and my face has actually cleared up and I am less tired then I usually am!

I have decided to put up some facts from some websites about how the colon works and what it could help you in your weight loss journey and overall health. Enjoy!!!


P.S. I think it is important to always think about your health first and always consult a doctor before doing any sort of weight loss regimen.

 

The Function Of The Colon

What is the role of the colon in your digestive system? The colon’s main role is to convert about three pints of liquid waste it receives per day into solid waste and prepares it for its exit from body through the anus. The colon, therefore, coordinates closely with the rectum, that part just above the anus, to make bowels smooth and easy. A normal person needs to maintain colon health in order to pass solid stool in a normal way. That means about 150 grams of stool every day, depending on how often a person does his bowel movements.
One of the most common disorders affecting the colon and the rectum is constipation. When a person suffers from constipation, his bowel appears normal when in fact it is not functioning well. In constipation, the stools are hard, small, difficult and infrequent.
There are several causes for constipation. The list includes a diet that lacks fiber, lack of oral fluid, the habit of delaying the bowel movement, and slow movement in the large intestine.
If you suffer from constipation, you may exert more effort to pass stools, creating other problems like cracks in the tissue lining of the anus and haemorrhoids. To treat constipation, you will be advised to add more fiber in your diet. If that doesn’t work, you will be told to take laxatives.
 ((Source: http://colonhealth.com/))

Benefits of a high-fiber diet

A high-fiber diet has many benefits, which include:

• Normalizes bowel movements. Dietary fiber increases the weight and size of your stool and softens it. A bulky stool is easier to pass, decreasing your chance of constipation. If you have loose, watery stools, fiber may also help to solidify the stool because it absorbs water and adds bulk to stool. For some, fiber may provide relief from irritable bowel syndrome.
• Helps maintain bowel integrity and health. A high-fiber diet may lower your risk of developing hemorrhoids, and small pouches in your colon (diverticular disease). Some fiber is fermented in the colon. Researchers are looking at how this may play a role in preventing diseases of the colon.
• Lowers blood cholesterol levels. Soluble fiber found in beans, oats, flaxseed and oat bran may help lower total blood cholesterol levels by lowering low-density lipoprotein, or "bad," cholesterol levels. Epidemiologic studies have shown that increased fiber in the diet can reduce blood pressure and inflammation, which is also protective to heart health.
• Helps control blood sugar levels. Fiber, particularly soluble fiber, can slow the absorption of sugar, which for people with diabetes can help improve blood sugar levels. A diet that includes insoluble fiber has been associated with a reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
• Aids in weight loss. High-fiber foods generally require more chewing time, which gives your body time to register when you're no longer hungry, so you're less likely to overeat. Also, a high-fiber diet tends to make a meal feel larger and linger longer, so you stay full for a greater amount of time. And high-fiber diets also tend to be less "energy dense," which means they have fewer calories for the same volume of food.
• Uncertain effect on colorectal cancer. Evidence that dietary fiber reduces colorectal cancer is mixed — some studies show benefit, some show nothing and some suggest increased risk. If you're concerned about preventing colorectal cancer, adopt or stick with a colon cancer screening regimen. Regular testing for and removal of colon polyps can prevent colon cancer.

((Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/fiber/NU00033))

I have become a PRODUCT JUNKIE! Product Reviews! NEW DEEP CONDITIONING MIRACLE!!!

I have become a PRODUCT JUNKIE which has been my biggest fear since I started going natural but there are so many good products to try! So, Ive been using the Renpure Organics Amazing Miracle Deep Penetrating Reconstructor Conditioner along with the Organics Root Stimulator Olive Oil Deep Penetrating Conditioner to deep condition my hair once or twice a week. It has worked wonders! I am super proud to have used these two products together on my hair! It creates this awesome sort of shine and a perfect curl pattern!!! It is just the best products I have found to deep condition my hair! It also last for a long time!






How I used it:
1) I dampened my hair with my handy dandy spray bottle and rubbed in the Renpure Reconstructor.
2) I sectioned my hair into six parts. 
3) Then section by section, I applied the Olive Oil Conditioner and combed through to detangle.
4) I added my heat wrap and left it on for 45 minutes and rinsed it out!




The first week I used it, I used it to deep condition my hair once that week with a Cantu Shea Butter twist (then later a twist out), it lasted a whole week until my next co-wash! I was sooo Impressed!!! I recommend this method to anyone who needs that extra bit of moisture and shine without breaking the bank!


Renpure Organics Amazing Miracle Deep Penetrating Reconstructor:


Pros:
It Conditions! It does what it says! It is an amazing product. I am starting to be very faithful to Renpure because of its natural products and the fact that they havent disappointed me yet. It's Sulfate Free, Dye-Free and Paraben Free! It is Also Not Animal Tested! Price :$7.99 :D


Cons:
None! I absolutely love it and it WORKS BEAUTIFULLY!!


Ingredients:
Water, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Amodimethicone, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Cetrimonium Chloride, Trideceth-12, Aleurites Moluccana Seed Oil (Kukui), Silk Amino Acids, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Panthenol, Thymus Vulgaris Leaf Extract (Thyme), Urtica Dioica Extract (Nettle), Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil (Sunflower), Cetyl Esters, Sodium PCA, PEG-10 Soy Sterol, Lactic Acid, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Fragrance.






Organics Root Stimulator Olive Oil Deep Penetrating Conditioner:

Pros:
Deep penetrating and rebuilds damaged hair. It smells absolutely wonderful!
Price: $1.49

Cons:
Not all natural! Some stuff in the ingredients column of the package is quite questionable but if it works there is no reason to change it!

Ingredients Aqua (Water) , Glycine Soja Oil (Soybean) , Glycerin , Olea Europaea Fruit Oil (Olive) , Hydrolyzed Collagen , Quaternium-80 , Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Oil (Orange) , Citral , d-Limonene , Linalool , Polyquaternium-37 , Propylene Glycol Dicaprylate , Dicaprate , PPG-1 Trideceth-6 , Panthenol , Silk Amino Acids , PEG-9 Dimethicone , Anthemis Nobilis Extract (Chamomile) , Salvia Officinalis Extract (Sage) , Urtica Dioica Extract (Nettle) , Rosmarinus Officinalis Extract (Rosemary) , Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice , Achillea Millefolium Extract (Yarrow) , Actinidia Chinensis Fruit Juice (Kiwi) , Dimethicone , Hydrolyzed Glycosaminoglycans , EDTA , Triethanolamine , DMDM Hydantoin , Methylchloroisothiazolinone , Methylisothiazolinone , Cl 15985 (Yellow #6) , Cl 19140 (Yellow #5)

Try 30 Days of Self-Love!

I have recently asked to myself a question that I should have asked myself from the beginning:

 "How can I make myself over on the inside?"

I have been making myself over from the outside. I have been taking care of my hair and my body making sure they are healthy and looking great. I have learned to controlled my eating habits and get into a decent hair care regimen. I have gotten into a great exercise routine and have a great set of products to keep my hair in check. All that is well and good but I was still a mess on the inside. I was resentful, angry, hurt and just had so much evil in me. I didn't trust a soul and to make matters worse I blamed everyone for my problems. I couldn't make my own decisions and i hated myself for struggling the way I was. I keep saying "was" like it was years ago! It was recently that I have felt this way. It was a constant!

"I hated this!"

"I hate myself"

"I'm fat and ugly"

"I'm unworthy of love!"

"I don't like that!"

"Oh my god why do I have so many bills?"

"Why cant I catch a break?"

"Why is my hair not growing?"

"Why didn't I get that promotion?"

"Why am I not losing weight fast enough?"

I decided to change the way I felt about myself. I was bringing negativity in my life by saying it and thinking it all the time. I decided to do some research and so a challenge. It was called "30 days of Self Love" and here is what is all about:

Welcome to the 30 Days of Self-Love!
Take a few moments to quietly reflect on confidence and recognize what you have to offer. You have something! Focus on that throughout the day. Whenever you feel down, remember who YOU are and what you have to be proud of. Don’t negate it!
What do you have to be confident about? Proclaim it...and don’t forget that affirmation!
((http://jes0918.blogspot.co​m/2010/09/30-days-of-self-​love-confidence-and-10.htm​l))

Now I did this and it made me feel so good about myself. I used Positive Affirmations to get through these thirty days. Examples of such affirmations:

1) I love myself deeply and unconditionally.
2) I am beautiful, warm-hearted and intelligent.
3) I approve of myself and so does God.
4) I live in the present and my future is exceedingly bright.
5) Self-confidence is what I thrive on. Nothing is impossible and life is great.
6) My personality radiates with confidence—I am courageous, bold, and sociable.
7) I now command my subconscious mind to immediately replace all old negative self-talk and negative self-images with powerful new positive thoughts and new positive empowering self-images.
8) I attract the most positive people and I am always at the right place at the right time.
9)I not a quitter—I am unstoppable and persistent in everything I do.

I also listened to devotionals from a preacher named Joyce Meyers every single day!!! I became new and whole. I noticed the good things about me. I looked at myself in a whole different way! I even watched my words and thought I would share my knowledge from what I learned with everyone that I know! I even decided ( due to this surge of self love ) to explore the spiritual side of myself. I decided that I would let it all go ( my pain, hurt, destructive thoughts and words ). I let the LOVE in! I even look at the love from my hubby and child in a different way! I finally see the love from them as pure instead of it just being there! I even decided to go to church today and I felt the ice melt from my heart. I haven't been to church in awhile and when I went it didn't really sink in because I hated myself. I felt unworthy of any love (Let alone God's love!) and ashamed of myself because of it but when I did give into the love of myself, I felt the love of the Almighty! I have decided to make this 30 days turn into a lifetime thing! It changed my life and I have decided to make it my mission to spread the love and try and teach anyone who needs it (and those who think they don't) the power of SELF LOVE!!! It changes lives and I hope it changes yours! Try the 30 Days of Self-Love! Start Today and feel the joy That I DO!!

Be Blessed,
 Tori

30 pounds lost! Photo Proof!!!

I  am LOVING what I see!!! It has been a great journey so far but I have 55 more pounds to lose so .....

LETS GET ER DONE!!!!

Updated: My Daily Excercise and Hair Care Regimen Plus My Mini Goaling Experiment

I wanted to share my regimen since people have been asking me about it. Its fairly simple and it incorporates my fitness and hair all at the same time! I am also listening to my devotions and affirmation while working out on that treadmill and lifting those weights. I always try to find ways to better myself! Plus im also trying this new thing i found on My Fitness Pal called Mini Goaling. Instead of a big chunk to work at, it is small goals to reach to get to the bigger goal. I love this idea! Well I hope you enjoy:


My Daily Excercise and Hair Care Regimen:
Monday Nights :
1) Meatless Mondays!!!!
2) Gym For 45 minutes (30 miinutes on treadmill and 15 minutes strength training)
3) Apply Leave-ins at night

Wednesday Nights:
1) Co-wash with a Moisturizing Conditioner and lightly comb through
2) Gym For 45 minutes (While Conditioning, 30 miinutes on treadmill and 15 minutes strength training)
3)Apply Leave-ins at night
4)Air dry and Twist
5) Moisturize and seal

Saturdays Nights:
1)Deep Condition with a moisturizing conditioner for 2 hours
2)Gym For 45 minutes ( While Deep Conditioning, 30 miinutes on treadmill and 15 minutes strength training)
3)Apply leave-ins
4)Air dry in twists.
5) Moisturize and seal
((P.S. I Apply Leave In Conditioners Daily))

My Favorte Affirmation while Excercising:
"I honor myself by exercising my physical body and by stretching my mind.

I take care of my body by exercising regularly, because of this I am healthy and strong. I take the time to stretch my mind by learning, praying, and meditating. When I open my mind to new ideas and expressive thought I am building a better me."

Mini Goaling Experiment:
Starting Weight: 235

Start Date: Febuary 2011 (Current Weight 205lbs)

1st Mini Goal 197  by December 15th!

2nd Mini Goal 185 by January 25th ((my Birthday))!

3rd Mini Goal 175 March 1st!

4th Mini Goal 165 April 25!!!

Ultimate Goal 150 June 25!!!

New Product Review: Renpure My Pretty Hair is Parched! Moisturizing Conditioner

Over the past few weeks, I have been experiencing large amounts of breakage. Now I have been told that the shampoo and conditioner have some harsh stuff in them that is harmful to my hair and that may be the reason why I am having so much breakage. I decided to try and look for an organic solution to my problems but since i barely use shampoo ( once or twice a month ), I decided to look for a conditioner first since mine was almost gone. I checked out Rite Aide since I was in the area and it was later in the evening.I found a product called Renpure My Pretty Hair is Parched! Moisturizing Conditioner just sitting on the shelf next to the Tresseme and the Vo5. So I decided to buy it and try it. At $6.99 it was way less expensive then the conditioners that I usually buy. I used it as a deep conditioner and I was surprised with how great my hair looked and felt.

Pros:
What surprised me was that it was completely NATURAL. Most pharmacy type stores don't carry such things.The front of the bottle tells you what it does in bold letters. This is what caught my attention to the product:

No sulfates, parabens, colors, dyes, gluten, phthalates, or propylene glycol.
Not animal tested.

First time use, it did its job but there was no WoW factor until the comb out! No hair on the comb! No breakage! No nothing! And after I added the Shea butter and did my twist, it was soft, sexy and smashing!After using it, I realized that not only does it smooth and soften but it is gentle on my curls and great smelling too!

Cons:
The only problem with it that i had was that after awhile on my head the scent got stronger and stronger. It was a smell of a flower at first then it turned into the whole florist!It is just too strong after awhile.

Conclusion:
I give this product a 9 out of 10. I'm glad I found this product. It is an amazing conditioner that I will be using again and again and again. Next time, I am trying the shampoo!!!

Later Gators <3

Fall Regimen!

I have been looking for a new regimen for awhile due to the weather change and my killer dry scalp. So I searched online, asked people I know and researched. I found a whole lot but nothing seemed to work for me. So, I started with what was around me. I looked in Rite Aide, Target, Walmart and even the local supermarkets. I found a few new things with a mixture of the old. I have decided to also trust my own opinion over others because only I know what works for my hair (not saying I wont accept suggestions because I totally do)!So here is what I came up with:

1) Shampoo Twice a month with

V05 Milk Moisture: Strawberry:

This is the most amazing shampoo I have ever used. It doesnt strip my hair and it cleanses! It also softens and moisturizes my hair which I need because without moisture my hair breaks so easily.

2) Deep Conditioning my Hair once or twice a week with

Suave Professionals Professionals Humectant Moisture Conditioner for Dry Hair:

Now this product works wonders for my hair! I am absolutely, positively in love with this conditioner! It does everything it says its going to do and more! It leaves my hair perfectly moisturized and looking and feeling light and beautiful.

3) Applying Cantu Shea Butter Leave In Conditioning Repair Cream Daily!

Ive heard amazing things about this product but refused to try it due to my obsession with Shea Moisture but I wish I would have tried it alot sooner because this product is amazing! I especially love using it for overnight treatment of my hair. It leaves it soft and manageable. It also makes my afro look shiny! I would reccommend this to everybody! Dry hair or not!

4) Once a month hot oil treatments (and twice a week regular application) with African Royale Hot Six Oil

Now I have posted about this product before and I will post about it again! This is the best product on the market( in my opinion)! My hair is soft, lucisous, sexy , healthy and about 50% of the maximum conditioning of my hair is due to the contents of this bottle! It is a miracle in a bottle.

I hope you enjoy and try some of these amazing products in your hair. But remember...always trust yourself and your opinion because only YOU know what works!

God Bless,

Tori P.



5 months of Natural hair and -30 pounds Altogether Lost for the Year !

I have been so busy! Im going to try and update every week from now on! So, to UPDATE YALL ON THE SITUATION: 

-5 glorious months of Natural HAIR
-8 months of hard work and dieting!

And all I can say is I look and feel good!!! 30 pounds lost!  Check the Pics!!!

Later Family,
Tori P.

FOUR MONTHS!!!

Four months of beautiful natural hair <3 Im sooo thrilled with it <3 Take a look <3:

Is anyone else jealous of Jennifer Hudson???

Jennifer Hudson is not only known for her amazing singing voice! Ive seen the tabloids:From a size 16 to a size 6! Im soooo jealous of her! Well, not so much jealous. Im more....no...jealous is the correct word. She wanted to lose the weight and she did! She took the Weight Watchers road! I am not into Weight Watchers but as soon as I saw her afterwards , I ALMOST WENT RUNNING TO MY NEAREST WEIGHT WATCHERS MEETING!!!!! I was amazed!!!! She motivates me to do the best I can to catch up. I mean she was a beautiful girl before and she is a beautiful girl now...just a few sizes smaller and looking way healthier! She looks so graceful and slim! I see her and refuse to lose faith! Come on SIZE 6!!!

Get a Check-Up Once a Year!!

So after all the health issues I have been having lately, it was only a matter of time before I had to post the importance of getting checked out by your doctor! I used to think that going to the doctor once a year was too much of a chore but I did it anyway.My biggest fear is to have an ailment that causes me an early death. Because of my yearly doctors visits, I have caught most of my problems early and are working hard towards finding a fix or at least delaying the progress of the problems. I grew up in an environment where health was one of our main concerns.

Most of my family members had health issues. Mostly to do with  diabetes, heart disease and hypertension. Even some of my friends have health issues that arent associated with our age group. One of my closet friends had a tumor found in her breast. She is only 29 years old. I think because of that fact, I do a breast exam on myself more often then I did before. (( I admire her courage! I glad she had it removed and she is doing fine <3 ))

Now some people think they are invincible and hate doctors and such but when it comes to your health I have a few words for you:

"Suck it up and GO! You are NOT invincible and if you want to be around for your family, you will get a check up to insure everything is running smoothly!"

I have posted some resources for women. Mostly about getting a check up and pap smear every year. They even have a few recommendations on questions to ask the doctor. It is always good to ask questions even on the slightest things you have issues with. You can never be too careful. Well I hope you use these resources to your advantage.

Much Love,
Tori P.


((Source: http://www.life123.com/parenting/pregnancy/prenatal-care/medical-checkup-guidelines-for-women.shtml )) :

Medical Checkup Guidelines for Women

By: Christina Elston

For mothers, and the mothers in their lives, routine medical checkups are important. The National Women's Health Information Center, part of the federal Department of Health & Human Services' Office on Women's Health, recommends the following screenings:

Beginning at age 18:

• Pap test and pelvic exam every one to three years if you are sexually active or over 21.
• Hearing test every 10 years.
• Dental exam one to two times per year.
• Tetanus-diphtheria booster vaccine every 10 years.

Beginning at age 20:

• Cholesterol tests as ordered by your doctor.
• Skin mole exam every three years.

Beginning at age 40:

• Mammogram every one to two years.
• Eye exam every two to four years.
• Skin mole exam every year.

Beginning at age 45:

• Blood sugar test for diabetes every three years.

Beginning at age 50:

• Fecal occult blood test for colon cancer yearly.
• Flexible sigmoidoscopy to screen for colon cancer every five years.
• Colonoscopy to screen for colon cancer every 10 years.
• Flu shot yearly.

Beginning at age 65

• Bone mineral density test as ordered by your doctor.
• Eye exam every one to two years.

((Source: http://www.health.harvard.edu/press_releases/annual-medical-checkup )):

The Harvard Women’s Health Watch notes some ways to get the most out of your checkup:

• Bring written lists of your health concerns and your current medications.
• Mention any changes in the health of your family.
• Bring up concerns early in the visit, so there is time to address them.
• Tell your doctor if a medication is not working for you.

Other Sources:


http://video.about.com/womenshealth/ObGyn--PAP-Smear---Check-up.htm


http://www.med.umich.edu/1libr/guides/routwomen.htm


http://www.essortment.com/womens-health-issues-yearly-checklist-63061.html


http://womenshealth.about.com/od/gynecologicalhealthissues/a/gyn101.htm


http://pause.acog.org/your-annual-check

Im BACK!!!

So Friday, I had surgery and I am feeling a bit better. I havent been updating because of alot of health issues but im back in effect <3 Now I have been three months natural and it is an amazing feeling when people take notice. My own sister (who was against it from the start...She kept saying get a perm blah blah...I love you still mamas) actually commented on how healthy it looks! I love the fact that even my love finds it just plain BEAUTIFUL! I must be having an effect on my son as well because he keeps saying he wants a fro. I told him later on in life. I havent posted any pics until recently on my Facebook page. (P.S. If you dont have me as a friend on FB, Add me! The link is below)

Tori Rae's Facebook Page

So here are some updated pics! Enjoy <3 :

Sorry, I havent been updating...

I have started Summer Classes and I havent had enough time to update. Now my hair has gotten longer and again because of health reasons, I am limited in my weight loss goals but I have again surpassed my own expectations. I have lost 7 pounds last month and I am proud of it! I am trying to start a new weight loss regimen since I have hit a plataeu. I havent had much time to exercise but I will make time. Also I have a biggest loser challenge in my group that I have to Update you all on! Well Im taking Pictures tomorrow and I will make sure to put them up!!! See you all later <3

My Favorite Song on My Workout Playlist ( For Now )

This is the funniest song Ive heard in a while and it gets me moving!

Hey if it does the job......No complaints right! Enjoy !!

Walking2gether - My MeetUp.com Group:I'm Feeling like a MILLION BUCKS!!!

I am a gym lover in every way shape and form but every now and again, I get the need to be outdoors! I like the air, sunshine and sense of accomplishment after I have taken a five mile walk and I have enjoyed the beauty of the day.


I was told about MeetUp.com a while back. I even joined a group to aide my new found love of walking to see if I can nurture it! It is one of my favorite excercises and because of my weight gain has been hard for me to enjoy!

So I have gotten involved with this group that was originally called WalkGermantown that has now been renamed to Walking2gether ! It is an amazing group and I'm actually thrilled to find people in my area that are into walking as an excercise as much as I am!


They also have meet ups all over the county! I am putting this together with an awesome low cal diet!1,330 calories a day!!!!I am eating sensibly and I feel great!!!! Working out and eating right is actually making me feel like this isnt an impossiblle feet!!!T hey gave me a work out and I posted it in My Fitnes Pal account and this was the damage:

"mrstoripowell burned 1113 calories doing 155 minutes of cardio exercises, including "Walking, 4.0 mph, very brisk pace" "

 

I was also super thrilled at how many calories I had lost with my daily activites plus the walk with my meetup group! I am totally doing this again and again! I am on my way! 72 more pounds to go! I can do this !!!

 

 

Much Love,

Tori P.