I was contacted by a company called Regrowzthat produce an all natural scalp homeopathic system to help stimulate hair growth & regrowth.
Regrowz is based on ancient Ayurvedic medicine that includes about 30+ plants and herbal ingredients. The recipe is specifically formulated to prevent, stop and reverse the effects of hereditary hair loss in both men and women. It is designed to help with scalp stimulation in order to help grow and regrow hair and should be focused on the area/s affected with slow/no growth.
Regrowz can either be used for 3 months – 6 months (depending on your personal needs) and has developed to be used for both women and men but both are said to be effective in the same way.
The Regrowz Scalp Stimulant is developed to help open the pores (in areas where you have experienced hair loss) and is the first step to preparing the scalp to receive the Restoration Serum (step 2). The comb attachment acts as a deep exfoliant, cleansing the scalp of the hormone Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) which is contained within the natural oil produced by the scalp (sebum). It should be left on the scalp for a 30 minute period before applying the Restoration Serum (without rinsing it).
Similar to the Scalp Stimulant, the serum should be focused on the scalp itself and massaged for 1 minute and then left on for a minimum of 60 minutes to overnight (by covering the hair with a shower cap/plastic bag in order to avoid staining). It is said to have been effective in 100% of those that have used the serum and clinical studies of those that participated reported a 39.41% reduction in total hair loss with up to 44.90% individual reduction for some.
After 60 minutes – overnight the products needs to be washed out of the hair with shampoo. This system is most effective when used frequently (every other day is best).
I was given a discount code: 10caregrowz46 that can be used upon checkout on Regrows.
I plan on monitoring my progress in my crown and back of head area since my crown seems to grow the slowest and the hair on the back of my neck experiences more tension/friction while wearing my hair down, using a scarf or putting it up in a ponytail. I shall be using Regrowz for 3 months and will do a 1.5 month update as well as after 3 months.
My Wash-n-Go started with my wash day process where I first used the Strengthen Shampoo:
Photo credit Revlon Realistic USA
1. Cleansing Using about 4-5 pumps of the shampoo after damping my hair with water (I wash my hair in sections) I focused on my roots and scalp first in order to remove product buildup, sweat, dirt etc. Using my finger tips I gently massaged my scalp and worked the shampoo. I also used my scalp massage brush to help lift product buildup and sweat from my scalp. I added another 3 pumps of shampoo onto my roots and scalp before working the shampoo on the length of my hair. It smells divine and had a little bit of slip to help detangle (however, I did not necessarily focus on detangling while using the shampoo that came later). I have always had a hate hate relationship with shampoo because from past experience they have ALWAYS left my hair feeling dry and stripped. However, this shampoo did neither! It lathered up a little bit and left my hair feel clean without stripped of natural oils produced by the scalp. It basically left my scalp and hair feeling clean without that typical “squeaky clean” feeling I have experienced in the past. In terms of shampoos, this definitely has been one of the best I have personally used.
Photo credit Revlon Realistic USA
2. Conditioning: After shampoo-ing I moved onto their Strengthening Conditioner (Intense Moisture). I struggled getting the conditioner out of the pump because it is really really thick which, is something I had anticipated when I did my initial review of the box (check my previous post). I ended up removing the pump and just squeezed the conditioner out of the container. I worked the conditioner from ends to roots since the ends of our hair is the oldest and driest parts so I focus on that first. I am very heavy handed with conditioner because this is when I really finger detangle and remove shed hair (using my fingers as a comb – I no longer use a comb while washing my hair). This conditioner melted into my hair, despite being really really thick. I had anticipated that it would sit on my hair but I was proven wrong! It basically dissolved. My curls were left detangled, soft, moisturized and clumped together. I absolutely loved how hydrated my hair felt after using the conditioner. I was left with a normal amount of shed hair (for me) as I would on any other wash day. I left the conditioner on with a shower cap for 10 minutes (as per their instructions) and then rinsed it out.
Photo credit Revlon Realistic USA
3.Moisturizing For the Wash-n-Go process I first moisturized my hair with their Strengthening Butter Creme Leave-in Conditioner. This is the thickest Leave-in Conditioner I have ever applied on my hair! I was actually a little worried that it might just coat my strands because of the thick consistency of the product, especially since I have fine strands. I also wasn’t sure if my curls would be weighed down due to the product just sitting on top of the strands instead of being absorbed but I yet again was proven wrong! My hair literally drank up the Leave-in! It did’t sit on top of my hair, it practically melted into int nor did it leave it feeling greasy in any way. I really put it to the test by applying A LOT of Leave-In. It smells amazing and left my curls moisturized, soft, shiny, hydrated and clumped together. After applying the leave-in is when I go for my wide tooth comb to make sure I have gotten rid of all tangles and shed hair (my comb was free of shed hair at this point).
Photo credit Revlon Realistic USA
4. Defining:To define my Wash-n-Go I used the Strengthening Curling Custard. This is another product that is thick in consistency however, it has more of a cream texture compared to the Leave-In. This product helped to enhance my curls, clumped each strand and also left my hair smelling amazing and looking shiny. It didn’t leave it feeling coated nor did I have a “crunchy” after effect on my curls. I was left with fluffy, frizz free, bouncy hair that had body, movement and definition.
Final Verdict:
Overall, I loved the results of my Wash-n-Go, from cleansing right down to styling. I was impressed with how well my hair absorbed the products without feeling weighed down nor product overloaded. My hair had volume while having little to no frizz (I went to town with my Afro comb because I LOVE lifting my roots to create MORE volume). My curls were defined, soft, shiny and hydrated.
Initially I did wish that the line included some kind of oil since I am used to applying one after moisturizing my hair however, I think that since both the leave-in and the curling custard include oils such as: sweet almond oil, black cumin seed oil, olive oil, argan oil, coconut oil and even Shea Butter & Cocoa Butter, I think for someone with fine hair such as myself the oils included in the products are sufficient. (I don’t know if those with thicker hair strands (coarser) hair would feel the same). I would have liked to see a Deep Conditioner in the product line because my wash day usually includes deep conditioning on a weekly basis. Maybe that will be added at some point.
Other than that, I enjoyed using the line & look forward to trying the other styling product I received when I do a Bantu Knot-out!
Let me know if you have ever tried Revlon Realistic Black Seed Oil and what you thought!
I hope this post finds you well! I am excited to share this one with you.
This one is all about my first impression upon unboxing the Revlon Realistic Black Seed Oil line!
So before I even begin, I need to first say THANK YOU to both Revlon Realistic USAfor their product line which, I was sent by Brown Girl Bloggers. THANK YOU so so much!!!
I was sent an email with a link to sign up to receive the products through Brown Girl Bloggers (I was following them before that happened) and that’s how I actually was introduced to Revlon Realistic USA. One of the reasons why I opted to try the products is because it is designed for and caters to natural hair! If you have been following me for a while, you’ll know that I have been all about that DIY life after a couple of months of being fully natural (and still am). But one of the main reasons why I did was because I do not have access to all the well known international natural hair brands locally because the market here caters to other ethnic hair types. SO, if I happen to find something “commercial” or store bought that caters towards natural hair and catches my eye, I will try it! In case you are interested in trying the products yourself, I suggest checking out both Revlon Realistic USAandBrown Girl Bloggers. That’s the back story.
Photo credit Revlon Realistic USA
Before I get into it: while I was sent these products to try out, I have no issue what so ever to state exactly how I feel or what I think when I have tried products/ingredients that did/didn’t work for me so all opinions stated below are all my own and are HONEST!
Ok let’s get to the good stuff shall we….
Photo credit Revlon Realistic USA
I was sent a total of 5 products in my box along with a really cute T-shirt (I got to pick the size and opted for small which, fits perfectly), a comb set (a rat tail and wide tooth comb) and a really cute fan! As I write this, I have yet to try the products but I wanted to share my initial thoughts/impressions on the products in terms of ingredients, consistency and scent.
Black Seed Oil Product line
Revlon Realistic Strengthening Shampoo
Photo credit Revlon Realistic USA
For those of you that have followed me for a while, you will know that I usually do not use commercial/store bought shampoo. Most of my experiences with commercial shampoo has been less than pleasant (at least the type of shampoo we have available locally which again, isn’t necessarily catered towards natural hair). So I have stayed clear of it for a while. Instead, I normally reach for an Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) rinse, shikakai or Raw African Soap. I am however, intrigued to try this shampoo because of the fact that is catered to natural hair and also because of the fact that some of the ingredients in the shampoo are nourishing and makes it sound like it won’t be stripping. Here are some of the ingredients:
Glycerin
Nigella Sativa (Black Cumin) Seed Oil,
Plukenetia Volubilis (Sacha Inchi) Seed Oil
Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil
Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil
Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil
When it comes to the scent, this shampoo has a really light citrus smell with that familiar cleansing shampoo scent but it is subtle. The consistency of it is slightly creamy which, makes me believe it might provide a little slip (still have to put it to the test) along with it being nourishing (versus stripping like normal shampoos) because of all the oils and moisturizing ingredients (stay tuned for my next post about this line where I will use the shampoo).
I had to jump right in to that part of the consistency of the conditioner because it is THICK! When I pulled the pump off to get a look at the consistency and scent; there hardly was any on the pump itself because of how thick it is! Yes, it was that thick (take a look at my video below for my reaction). So I am anticipating how this will feel on my hair because I believe it will provide great slip because of the fact that it will coat the hair while providing moisture due to the ingredients:
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil
Nigella Sativa (Black Cumin) Seed Oil
Plukenetia Volubilis (Sacha Inchi) Seed Oil
Salvia Hispanica (Chia) Seed Oil
Crambe Abyssinica (Abyssinian) Seed Oil
Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil
Adansonia Digitata (Baobab) oil
Macadamia integrifolia (Macadamia) Nut Oil
The instructions on the bottle says to leave the conditioner on for 10 minutes before rinsing it out (which I shall follow) donning a shower cap. It has a really soft sweet scent to it. In all honesty by the time I got to smelling the conditioner I already was in love with the scent of their products.
This is another product from the line that is SUPER thick, it actually has a custard consistency. I am SUPER EXCITED to put it to the test because I have fine hair so I am interested to see if it will weigh my hair down or not. My hope is that my hair will be left moisturized, bouncy and shiny without being weighed down. It contains some really good ingredients as well such as:
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil,
Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter
Nigella Sativa (Black Cumin) Seed Oil
Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil
Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Extract
One thing about this product is that it includes cones. So, if you have been following me you’ll know that I usually do not apply cones on my hair for the simple fact that I don’t usually use shampoo. Shampoo is the only real way to remove cones from the hair and since I did get a natural hair shampoo with this line, I am willing to give the leave-in conditioner a try. (I shall be using the shampoo on wash days whenever I use the line in general).
Revlon Realistic Strengthening Curling Custard
Photo credit Revlon Realistic USA
The curling custard is a curl defining product that I plan on testing for a wash-n-go (I shall be sharing that via a YouTube video & blog post). The curling custard has a rich creamy consistency but is less thick than their leave-in conditioner. Every product in the line has a slightly difference scent to it and this one has a slightly different citrus smell to it in comparison to their leave-in but is equally divine. In terms of ingredients:
Glycerin
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil
Nigella Sativa (Black Cumin) Seed Oil
Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter
Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil
Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil
Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil
Aside from some of the ingredients above, the styling product does include cones as well. So, as with the leave-in conditioner, I shall be following up with their shampoo on wash day.
Revlon Realistic Strengthening Twisting Pudding
Photo credit Revlon Realistic USA
This is obviously a styling product that can be used for twist-outs along with other styles such as Bantu Knot-outs, braid outs etc to give you extra definition. The Twisting Pudding is the “lightest” product in the line in comparison to the rest that I received and also has a light citrus scent to it. Some of the ingredients are:
Glycerin
Nigella Sativa (Black Cumin) Seed Oil
Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Extract
Bambusa Arundinacea (Bamboo) Leaf Extract
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract,
Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein PG-Propyl Silanetriol
This also happens to be another product with cones in them, so yes, it too shall be followed up with their shampoo on wash days after using it.
All products in the line have no mineral oil, no petrolatum, no sulfates, no parabens and no colorants. They have two additional products in the Black Seed Oil line that were not included in my particualr box: a Strengthening Edge Control and a Strengthening Curl Revive.
So as I mentioned I got 5 products in total and will be using them in combination to do a Wash-n-Go as well as a Bantu Knot-out that will be recorded. But first, take a peek at my unboxing video below where you can see each product (including the t-shirt, combs and fan) I received.
Once again I want to thank Revlon Realistic USA and Brown Girl Bloggers for my product box and I look forward to sharing my review and styling videos using the line!
I am BACK! (again lol) Let’s skip the wishy-washy and get straight into it.
Today I’ve got a new DIY recipe to share: Black African Soap Shampoo.
So as the name suggestions, it is a hair shampoo, it is all natural and yes, it is simple!
As with any commercial shampoo (which I personally don’t use) I use this to help cleanse my scalp from product buildup (my roots) and then I slowly work my way down the length of my hair. Previously I had been using Shikakai as a cleanser and I have nothing “bad” to say about it but I wanted a change and stumbled upon Raw African Black Soap.
What Is Black African Soap?
Black African Soap is traditionally made in West Africa from harvested plants such as sun dried dried plantain, cocoa pods, barks of Shea tree and palm leaves. Palm oil, palm kernel oil and water is also added to form the soap, which is left to “cure” before it is ready for use.
Black African Soap can be used for both your hair and skin ( I will have a separate recipes for the skin – I use it to cleanse my face). Some of the many properties of this soap:
Anti-fungal
Antibacterial
Cleansing
Reducing Oil productions (for overly oil skin since it does contain moisturizing properties to help balance the natural sebum produced by the skin).
Moisturizing
Helps sooth irritated skin
Reduces acne, blemishes and fine scars/lines
Recipe:
1 oz Raw Black African Soap.
8 oz warm Water (I use bottled water because my facet has hard water).
1 tsp Almond Oil
1 tsp Grapeseed Oil
1 tsp Glycerin Oil
5 drops Peppermint Essential Oil
5 drops Lavender Essential Oil
Ingredient Alternatives:
You can use any oil/oils you have at home, you must not stick by what I personally use. You can skip the use of Essential Oils (or replace them with your favorites) I like using Peppermint Essential Oil because it has a tingling effect on the scalp that helps to stimulate blood flow which helps to stimulate growth, it also has cleansing properties, anti-fungal & anti bacterial properties and smells AMAZING! Lavender Essential Oil has a relaxing and soothing effect. I add glycerin to my recipe because it is a humectant and while Black Soap has moisturizing properties on its own I don’t find it moisturizing enough so the addition of glycerin seems to boost that (but it is optional).
If you use Black African Soap, please leave me a comment below with your own recipe! I love learning and love sharing your recipes with my readers! And if you happen to try mine, please do leave me some feedback on what you think!
Here is my second styling tutorial using the Avocurl Line – Conditioning Butter.
As I mentioned in my first tutorial using their Daily Moisturizer, I was contacted by the founder Jasmine, to be a Brand Ambassador. For this demonstration, I used their conditioning butter to do a Wash & Go.
I have to point out that at the age of about 15 I had made a “pact” with my best friend Sarah that we would travel to New Orleans, Louisiana (NOLA) together once we were done with school. Our “plan” was to go to NOLA, live there for a few months before University and (because we “knew” we would love it) we’d return after University. Teenagers have such imaginations and no concept of money! It turned out that we finished school Sarah ended up going to the United Kingdom for University and I headed to Switzerland but took off a few months to live in France then did an internship before starting University. In short I never made it to NOLA. Sarah did though after Uni and she kept telling me I really needed to go. When I knew I would be making the trip the USA I knew that it would be impossible for me go without visiting the place. Even though I couldn’t have known for certain that I would really love it as a teenager, it is like I was meant to be there and my gut wasn’t wrong!
So, that is the little introduction: please be warned I spent a week in Louisiana so there’s a lot to share.
31st November – I flew out from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and as always arrived early so I wouldn’t be stressed out while travelling alone. It was supposed to be a 5 hour flight (total) with 1 transit and I was over the moon excited, I mean really, really excited. When I finally got on my first plane I was seated next to larger than life gentleman who, very pleased with himself announced that our flight would be delayed due to bad weather. I didn’t do a good job in hiding the fact that I was unable to share in his delight and prayed he would be wrong, he wasn’t. The pilot announced that we would be a little delayed until we got the all clear to fly into Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Mr. larger than life at was also very “thirsty” (vodka tonics) and had roughly 5 drinks in the 45 minutes that we were grounded. He kept asking me questions, was intrigued that I was travelling by my self and planned to visit NOLA on my own.
Because I had a connecting flight I got a little nervous if I would make it at all with the 45 minute delay. When we landed I legged it across the airport, politely asked people to move and found out that I had to not only run across airport but had to jump on one of those connecting trains to get to the other end. In the end I made it. I was one of the last people to board the plane, out of breath, sweating and annoyed but I made it! The delay and short connection time meant that…*drum roll please*….my luggage didn’t make it with me! Yup, my bag were still in Atlanta when I arrived and I was told that if possible they would try get it on one of the other flights coming arriving that night, but in all likelihood it would only arrive the following day. So I jumped in a taxi and headed to my hotel, sans bags. After a smooth check-in I got to my room, ordered some food, inhaled everything and then went to sleep.
The following morning I got my first taste of delicious Louisiana biscuits (I became obsessed with this over the next 6 days). I kept checking with the airline about the status of my bags because I had initially wanted to go and explore but had to be around to pick up my luggage from the lobby. I ended up losing that first day because of my bag but I was pleased it arrived in the end. Later that night I had randomly met two Germans guys that were in the hotel overnight and were fantastically friendly. We had a few drinks together at the bar before I had an early night.
My next few days were filled with taking in touristy spots, eating and drinking (more than I should have), basking in the culture and friendliness of the south! I have never come across people as friendly as I did while in Louisiana! From the bus ticket lady, the driver of the bus, the guy renovating the hotel and random people that would come up and talk to me. Funny story: while on the Greyhound Bus (destination French Quarter) I was waiting for people to disembark so I stayed seated (super smiles and all because I couldn’t wait). A guy that was seated behind me stood by my seat and said something to me which I didn’t understand (this happened several times). I sheepishly said “Sorry” and he repeated whatever it was he was trying to tell me, again nope didn’t get it, “sorry I didn’t get you”. He proceeded to point at my face smiling and said “You have a pretty face” over emphasizing each word loudly so I could understand him. I wanted to disappear because it seemed like I was trying to get him to repeat it on purpose and make everyone else on the bus hear LOL. Poor guy just smiled after I again sheepishly said “Ohhh Thank You!”
So the French Quarter was of course visited and a ton of photos were taken. I apparently wasn’t supposed to take photos of things inside the stores (I am sneaky and managed to do so anyways). Souvenirs were bought for everyone back home including a T-shirt I bought for myself (I LOVE it)! Music was listened to and gumbo was consumed. I can not stress enough how much I loved my time in NOLA. As I said before I had this “instinct” prior to even having stepped foot in in the State that I would love the art, culture, food, people, atmosphere, everything and I was not disappointed.
During my stay I met a completely insane girl at the hotel that was still drunk when she came for breakfast and accidentally sat at my table while I was getting my plate. She wore bright bright bright pink tracksuits every morning, not that she needed any extra attention with her crazy ways and her antics had me in stitches, we quickly got along. She actually announced to anyone wanting to buy us drinks that we would take the drinks but they shouldn’t get any funny ideas, “we aren’t here to get picked up by you” was the line she would use time and again LOL!
One evening after my new friend had checked out I was at the hotel bar with my book and phone, chatting to a couple that had been staying in the hotel since August (after the storm) when a guy decided to park himself right beside me. He too was apparently a local and decided to check himself into a hotel to “take a break from everything”. He was polite enough and small talk was made, After about an hour or so I had stepped out of the bar and upon my return found out he had paid for the last drink. I wasn’t too keen on this since I like buying/paying for my own drinks in general, especially If I don’t know you AND I am on my own. Regardless, it was done so I thanked him. Now here is the kicker ladies, he informed me that he was headed back to his room so I put my hand out to shake his and say goodbye. He used the opportunity to pull me into a hug and then whispers “Walk me to my room”. NOW in all my life, I have NEVER EVER had a guy ask me to walk him anywhere LOL. Correct me if I am wrong, it usually is the other way around, and I have no clue what made him think even that would have happen. I polity said I was perfectly happy sitting in my chair and quickly made a beeline to my room when two other guys walked in the bar and yelled” Hey ma’am, how are you, I am thirsty today”.
On my second to last day I did a bit of shopping (of course) in yet again another HUGE shopping mall. I went a little overboard with shopping during my entire trip (this became obvious when my bags exceeded the limit on the day I was leaving). Anyways so shopping was done while in Louisiana as well.
I also met a friend that is a Baton Rouge local. Drinks and a movie were had as part of my last night in Louisiana before I made the 24 trip back home.
Now, having explained how I had this “feeling” I would enjoy a trip to NOLA I have a feeling that a repeat is on the way soon. I have a tourist visa and the possibility to take a trip again for a little while. I didn’t feel like I got to see enough, do enough, experience enough so a longer stay is planned. My parents actually asked me if I planned to move there since they too knew NOLA was a “I will live there one day” spot. Who knows, anything is possible if you have the desire and opportunity right?
That brings my “travel log” to an end and all I can say is I had an overall fantastic time in the US. I had a feeling I would like it but had no idea how much I would enjoy myself. My friends and the people I got to meet made all the difference. I have had this “I need something new” feeling for a little while and when I got back home it seems like that feeling has only gotten stronger. Like I said, who knows, a move might be in the works…
So I managed to record and edit another “Valentine’s Day Look”. I figured since I was redoing my hair I might as well record it and heck why not throw on a dress that makes for a good “Valentine’s Day Date Look”.
Ok so as the titles says it is a perm rod set and I used all DIY products and a Natural Oil. I ended up using 32 orange perm rods (originally I wanted to use less but forgot that was my initial plan) and let my hair air dry overnight before taking down the rods (with a little oil on my fingertips), separating and then fluffing my curls.
I always feel that having “faux bangs” really isn’t quite “for my face” but then I have a rather noticeable forehead so I want to rock a faux bang to cover it up so I opt for a to the side fringe thing…..anyways you get the point. In the video I tried both but ended up feeling “most like me” with it to the side, so that is what I stuck with for the final look.
Products/Tools Used:
32 Orange Perm Rods
DIY Spray Leave-In Conditioner
DIY Hibiscus Flaxseed Gel
Argan Oil
Wide tooth comb
Afro Pick
Method:
I had sectioned my hair into little mini sections after cowashing my hair. From each section made (a total of 6) I would apply the products in this order:
Spray Leave-In Conditioner
Hibiscus Flaxseed Gel
Argan Oil
After applying the products I detangle with my wide tooth comb (my hair was already detangled before) and then make smaller sections to roll. I start from the ends and work my way up, first rolling the ends of my hair onto itself and then in a slanted angle wind my hair around the rods. After letting my hair air dry overnight I use a little oil to help separate my hairs and reduce frizz while doing so, separate and fluff.
Happy Valentine’s Day to all the lovers out there and as for us single girls/guys Happy Valentine’s Day to us too!
So in the spirit of Valentine’s Day I decided to so a styling video for a “Date Look”. (I think I might potentially do a second styling option – depending on if I will have time to record and edit in time before V-day).
I am keeping it simple (as always) and quick. The style looks quite “chic” a little edgy and works as a protective style as well so overall I like it! I also kept my product use simple too (once again as always).
It is easier to watch a demonstration rather than read how I did the style:
Tip:for those with shorter hair, you can use braiding hair to do this style by adding it to the middle and bottom section, and twisting your hair together with it. I would recommend either doing a loose flat twist with the pompadour section go backwards or just making three sections, add braiding hair to all three and then make two – two strand twists within each sections. (You will need to watch the video so that this is clearer).
Tip:In case you don’t want to redo the style in the morning my suggestion is to take down the bobby pins (it is never a comfortable night with them in and not necessarily a good idea). Use a scarf to cover your hair, paying attention to your edges and side; for a smooth look in the morning and then just re-pin the twists down. You might need to “touch up” your edges with a soft bristle brush but other than that, it should be fine!
So here is my “final look”. Like I said, if I can I will do another styling option too and hopefully have it up before the 14th!
Whether you have a Valentine or not, are celebrating or not, I hope you manage to have a lovely day Maicurlies!
29th November 2016 – was the day I decided to be a super tourist and ventured off to Washington DC for a few hours of strolling and photo taking.
Qais kept reinforcing that I couldn’t be so close to Washington and not visit it, he had a point. He wanted to join but had classes, so after getting ready in the morning I called my taxi guy. It was the same taxi man that I had been using for the last few days so he of course did the whole “what to look out for” speech, gave me advice on how to “hide my money” from pickpockets and went on about how much he despises Washington DC LOL.
I caught the Blue Line train and settled down for the 40 minute ride before I switched trains to continue my journey to Union Station. I had mapped everything out on my phone, made note of places I wanted to see and knew which train I would take back. I arrived without a hitch and was feeling all kinds of proud of myself. Washington DC here is Mai!
The first sight I was greeted by was the Liberty Bell replica in front of Union Station which, made me go into “tourist mode” and out came the camera. Just down the road (a few good meters away) I spotted Capital Building (you really can’t miss it), so onward I went.
To my surprise I saw a squirrel! I was super pleased to see the little furry fellow and again out came the camera. I wanted to get close but was worried I would scare him/her away. To my surprise the squirrel started heading in my direction! Now I was sure I would get attacked or something but I took photos nonetheless. I quickly realized that there were tons of squirrels everywhere so the novelty wore off after a while. I actually had one follow me while I was marching back to the station! (Squirrels like me :D) .
The park along the way stretched on for ages, the trees were so beautiful (even those without any leaves) then while I was walking it started to rain! I of course did not have an umbrella or raincoat (actually do not own one) so there I was marching in the cold wet weather, determined to explore and take photos. After getting sick of walking in the drizzle I made my way to a little food shack. Hot chocolate was had (at first) and then I decided I was hungry so Nachos accompanied it.
Once the rain/drizzle stopped I continued. My useless phone I bought while in the States had a shady battery so I quickly realized I was running out of juice and never like that kind of situation when I am away from places and people I know. I decided that I would save my battery and “wing it”, follow signs, ask people and “make note” of roads to find my way back. I knew I had to see the White House so I just kept going…in the wrong direction LOL.
I of course saw a lot the other tourist attractions during my walk: the Library of Congress, The Supreme Court, the Smithsonian Institution Building, the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, Washington Monument.
Eventually I sheepishly asked a friendly looking gentleman if I was going the right direction; “no, but I can show you”. So off we went while making small talk. Frank lived/worked in DC and he told me all about his job and life. He walked with me for about 15 minutes before stopping to ask if I was married and if I wanted to go for coffee…(friendly looking Frank was a bit of a flirt). I politely declined, pointing to my camera to indicate I was keen on taking a photo of the White House before heading back. He pointed down the road and said it would be on my right, no more than 5 minutes away.
There must have been some kind of event going on or something because there was a LARGE group of people dressed to kill! It wasn’t raining at the time but for whatever reason they ALL had their umbrellas out and occupied half of the street… literally around 60 – 80 people with umbrellas opened and dressed like they were attending a wedding or something. I wanted to take a photo but felt I would probably get yelled at so I opted not to. Anyways, 5 minutes later Frank was right, I spotted the White House!
Now, my focus was to try and get as close as possible to the White House to take my tourist photo, I didn’t notice there was a police block ahead (of course). I kept walking, looking around (like a silly fascinated tourist), not noticing I actually walked around a barrier intended to stop me from continuing until I was a stone throws away from two policemen. I must have a knack for giving this “ops silly me” look because both of the police guys smiled and gave me the thumbs up as I shrugged and said sorryyyyyy (holding my camera in my hand) trying to excuse myself as being a “stupid tourist”.
It was only then that I noticed no one else was walking on the road I was on, everyone had walked behind another barrier to the left of the road and all the other tourists were packed together to take photos of the White House. We were not close but still, I could see it! I was asked to take a photo of two ladies and then one of them returned the favor to take mine, mission accomplished and it was time to march back.
Now, because I was busy chitchatting with Frank I forgot that I was supposed to “make note” of the roads I took. Long story short I ended up power walking back! I had to make it back in time so I could meet Qais for drinks and dinner. I managed to make my train and still had a little juice left on my phone to call my taxi man. Instead of heading back to the hotel Qais told me to meet him at the mall and he picked me up from there.
I had been craving for some real Italian Pizza and Qais being the wonderful man that he is took me to get some along with my favorite dessert wine. We decided to go for a walk after dinner to “help digest the food” and to spend my last evening since I would be flying down to Louisiana the following day.
Louisiana was the last leg of my trip and shall be continued in my next post….
27th November 2016 – I woke up at 7:00am, finally the day had arrived when I would meet my friend (K). We connected through (Napturallycurly.com) and our friendship grew after bonding over the experience of having lost our pet dogs. We had discussed for ages about how amazing it would be if we ever met and that day was the 27th November!
I made my way to the tiny Amtrack Station in Woodbridge, Virginia by way of taxi. My Taxi driver ended up not only coming from Nigeria but had lived in Germany (I am German/Nigerian) so he very quickly became friendly and handed me his card so I could call him in the evening when I was coming back from my trip. During the drive he gave me all kinds of advice and warned me about pickpockets and “rough” neighborhoods, he actually freaked me out a little but I knew I was going to be in the company of a local so I was ready.
It was really cold and I got to the train station a little early (as always) to make sure I would be on time. There was no where to sit and wait indoors so I braced myself for the 30 minute wait. For whatever reason you don’t find out which track the train will arrive at until it gets there so I decided to stand with the rest of the people. Of course, upon arriving it was announced that the platform was on the other side which, involved going up three floors, crossing a little “connection bridge” and going back down to the ground floor. There were a lot of elderly travelers, people with luggage etc. all of whom needed to use the elevator. I legged it across and made it, sweaty and all (because I of course was wearing a thick coat since I was cold) but anyways I made it!
I quickly texted K to let her know I was on the way, the excitement was building with every passing minute. After a little while I got a message from K asking if my train was going to be on time because she was informed that it would be arriving 1 hour late! This was news to me! Of course I panicked a little because we didn’t really have a lot of time to spend together and a one hour delay would eat away our time. I checked online and asked the ticket man who reassured me we would be on time and there was no delay. About 1.5 hours later I arrived at the station in Baltimore. Super pumped to meet my twin (we have a lot in common so we call each other twins) I looked around but didn’t see her. After a few minutes I spotted her looking around searching for me. HUGE SMILES, girly giggles and OH MY GOODNESS were exchanged along with a huge hug! Happy day the twins met!
K wanted to take me out to brunch first. Now let me explain my LOVE for all things food! I am literally obsessed with eating LOL. K and I both love talking about food, discussing recipes, sharing recipes, sharing what we plan on eating, what we ate etc. So when she told me we were going to one of her favorite spots for brunch I was more than thrilled. We ate at a place called The Blue Moon Cafe. I HIGHLY recommend a visit if you are ever in Baltimore (they have two locations). The food was mouthwatering and the service was great!
K did the honors of ordering for us and we shared everything selected because (US of A I will never get used to your portion sizes) this cafe had EXTREME portions! I am going to let the photos speak for themselves. And yes I did get to eat some crab (in here smothered with eggs and cheese and everything else) and yes, it was absolutely scrumptious! If I manage to get the names of each dish ordered I will update it here * will have to ask K. (Updated: Top Left – Cinnamon Roll (made with delicious biscuit), Top Right: “Sweet Baby Jesus (yes that is the name – this was the amazing crab dish with yummy cheese goodness) and Bottom: “Captain Crunch French Toast” – French toast coated with Captain Crunch Cereal before being cooked).
So after we ate (both of us had leftovers…HUGE I tell you), K then took me to the harbor district. The sun was out and we initially wanted to walk but figured she would end up getting a ticket if we left the car parked so decided against it. It took us ages to find a parking spot, tried a parking garage but the price for just 2 – 3 hours was ridiculous so we drove around looking for a place.
We actually got threatened by an insane man in his car! He thought K had attempted to “steal” his parking spot even though she didn’t notice he was parked a few good meters away (he was far away enough that it didn’t look like he intended to take the spot in he first place). Mad man drove up beside us and yelled like a loon, “Didn’t you see me parked there waiting…yaddayaddayadda”. K attempted to explain that she hadn’t noticed him and asked him POLITELY to remain calm; to which he responded with “Go ahead and park there and see what will happen to your car when you come back”. I was so shocked (and have a big mouth) so I yelled “Excuse me?!? What did you say?!?” He was clear, “you heard me”! Normally if I were at home I would have gone off but I was a visiting tourist and my mother warned me to keep my mouth shut unless I wanted to be an arrested visiting tourist on my first trip the US so I left it at that (with a lot of shock and anger pent up)! We waited for him to drive off before looking for another spot, didn’t want to take the risk!
Anyways after that little incident we found and spot and walked around the harbor which was stunning! K pointed out little spots, places she likes to go to, places we would visit again upon my return, I even picked up some accessories.
Now I wouldn’t be me if something else didn’t happen…my freaking boot heel broke! Now given it broke when I was in Miami (a new pair of never before worn shoes)! I tried using gorilla glue and even zip tied the heels to let the glue set while in Miami, but oh no it felt like breaking while I was away from my hotel and mid walking around! H&M came to the rescue with a pair of ballerinas LOL.
To finish off our trip we picked up some coffee and headed to the station. I was disappointed that I didn’t get more time with her but K had work the following day, our initial plans didn’t work out, everything sort of was rushed planning and there were no later trains I could catch directly back to Woodbridge. No matter, I shall be visiting her again in a few months and more time shall be spent together!
The trip back was uneventful; I caught my train back to Virginia, my taxi guy was there waiting for me, (I realized I forgot my leftovers in K’s car which broke my heart) and I grabbed some dinner before hitting the sack!
My next trip was to Washington DC which will be covered in my next post!
Maicurls 