Remember me????

Remember me???? Long time no see!!! I recently stopped wearing the wig that I started wearing to cover my cold bald head ( and to look professional at the workplace ) . I just went back to my natural hair. I feel much better now that I'm back to my natural state of being! I guess your wondering what is going on and why it took so long for me to get back.

Well, Ive been kept super busy. I still work 40 hours a week and I am six months pregnant. I'm still trying to keep up with family life and church life. I recently got baptized and have been religiously (pun intended) going to bible study. I recently started selling Avon and trying to promote my small business. I have not had enough time to sit down and relax enough to write an entry. Well, that is about to change right now!
I'm going to start again with new and exciting products I have tried, info on how I have been trying to keep fit and how my diet has changed since I have been pregnant! I'm going to start out with my reviews on some new things I have been using.

My Review on 2 of the Avon Naturals Conditioners (Banana/Coconut Milk and Almond Oil/Avocado):

I was sceptical about these products from reading the ingredients on the label but it was nothing too harsh for my hair so I decided they were worth the try. I did a deep condition with the Banana and Coconut Milk Conditioner the first day it arrived in the little Avon box. I have fallen in love! It left my hair soft, the product itself was sweet smelling and left my hair easy to detangle! It  left my hair shiny as well as healthy looking! Amazing price to boot ($2.00 a bottle)! I give it a 10 out of 10! I didn't really like Almond Oil and Avocado Conditioner!I literally had to mix it with the Mane N Tail to get any results! It wasn't thick like the other conditioners I usually use. The smell was okay but it isn't something I would want to smell on a regular basis. I also had to use a lot of it to coat my mini curls. I give 3 out of 10. :( I will stick to the Banana and Coconut Milk Conditioner!!

http://​victoriagrant.avonrepresentativ​e.com/

My Review on Mane 'n Tail Conditioner:

I have used this before and didn't think much of it to be honest. It didn't do much for my hair and I decided to move on. Recently, my friend told me she swears this product is the best she has ever used so I decided to give it another try because of her enthusiasm. I caught it on sale at Rite Aid (Buy one get one Free) and thought might as well! Instead of using it for a simple co wash like I did before, I decided to use it as a deep conditioner. The first things I noticed was the awesome smell and its thick consistency (which coated my hair quite quickly and evenly so I didn't have to use much of the product). I put the conditioner on, put my shower cap, wrapped it in my silk head wrap and waited an hour! After that, I rinsed and combed thru with my wide tooth comb. It made my hair unbelievably soft and there wasn't a tangle to be seen! It is an amazing product and has officially become a staple product of mine! I wouldn't use it for a regular co wash but as a deep conditioner I give this product a 10 out of 10!!!!

Well I hope you've enjoyed these reviews and I hope you join me as I push the reset button on my journey.


Much Love,
Tori P.

Question and Answer

I have gotten asked this question a few times over the past few months:

"What products have you kept using from your first experience with going natural?"

Good question! Here's a list of the things I have stuck with along the way:
1)Cantu Shea Butter
2)African Royale Hot Six Oil
3) Shea Moisture Organic Coconut and Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie

Here is a list of things I still use but not as much as before:
1)Organix Moroccan Argan Oil Renewing Treatment
2)Renpure Organics Amazing Miracle Deep Penetrating Reconstructor
3)Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Leave-in Conditioner

January 2012: A new Year and AGAIN with a NEW Start!!!

After an interesting year of change and transition, I am proud of what I accomplished! I grew my own hair out and lost a significant amount of weight. I was on cloud nine....until I decided to make a mistake.....that cost me 8 MONTHS of natural hair growth!!!

 

I loved my natural naps and perfect curls! I was proud of what I went thru. I was proud of myself for doing something I totally beileved in! Then I decided to let my sister flat iron my hair. I have seen it done to other naturals online so I didn't think it would hurt. It looked amazing! I got to see my length and see it like I haven't seen it in over a year. I wore it for a few and began to realize that all that heat from the flat iron....well it wasn't a good idea. My hair pattern didn't return and my hair started falling out. After literally crying about it, I decided to do what had to be done. I did my second Big Chop On January 12, 2012. I allowed my hunky hubby to do it this time around since he knows how to use a set of clippers and I wasn't really thrilled with my big chop the first time around so I needed someone I could trust to do it this time. I sat there and as he cut away 8 months of my life, I felt a sense of calm. I realized by cutting it off that I had a chance to start over and enjoy the journey all over again. I have no regrets. I made good decisions and  I made mistakes and I learned from them. Now I'm starting all over again. And I cant wait!!!

Much Love,
Tori P.

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