My Kids Take Growth Spurts to a New Level

 When my thirteen year old son walked  into my bedroom early morning and said "Mom, none of my sneakers fit." My first thought was "Ok, someone wants a new pair of sneakers. HA! Not happening! You don't need any right now."  Instead of stating this out loud I decided to have him elaborate on his announcement. "What do you mean none of them fit?" He informs me that his toes are at the top of every single sneaker he owns. "Mom, they don't fit." Silence falls and we both look sad. He's looking at me waiting for a solution and I'm looking at him in disbelief. Ooooh, I get it! He's joking *laughs* "Are you serious?" I am perplexed because his Uncle just gave him three pairs of sneakers. With this new expansion of  style choice and extended sizes, HOW could he be in this predicament?  Sizes 10 to 11.5 were "teen" tucked neatly in his closet just waiting to be the choice of the day.  "I'm so serious, Mom"  I had to go investigate because my head could not comprehend any of it.

  As he tried on every pair, we did the thumb test and I was on constant repeat "You sure? But How...? This makes no sense! Are you stretching your toes?" This child had indeed grown two shoe sizes overnight. WHO DOES THAT?! Apparently, my kid!! I'm still adjusting to the fact that he's in men shoes (and the price of those shoes!). Geesh! No slow motion growth for this kid, he stays on fast forward. Lawd! My baby went to bed and woke up with Sideshow Bob feet! 

Good thing for us, that same Uncle decided to gift him a pair of custom Nike KD-5  (purple sneaker in above pic) for doing very well this past school year. Pheeeew! Good thing I told him to buy  them a couple of sizes bigger.  What's next? Nevermind,  I've just been ankle flashed by my seven year old son. His jeans are somewhere between clam digger and capris. *sigh*   I get no break with my two human trees. Time for some school shopping! 

School is about to start, could this be a set up?  

     

8 Fun Hair Facts About My Natural Hair

I'm always asked the question, "How long have you been natural?"  When I answer "most of my life"  I tend to get a side eye like "Yeah, Girl whatever!" but then I'm bombarded with loads of product questions. Even in the moment of skepticism, my "secrets" are still on request for reveal. It's always been a tickling topic to me. Sometimes I have the "basher" (anyone and anything not natural is a problem!), the speudo educator (timelines and posts are their teacher. From their perspective, hairstylist don't know what they're talking about. 0_o) or (my fav) just a woman who likes to talk good haircare.  Many people tend to think that a series spectacular events happen in order for me to achieve the look/s they're inquiring about. Nope! Having been natural most of my life did not exclude me from the trial and error of finding out what works for my hair. However, being a hair professional and product trainer did make the journey a bit easier.  As per some of your inquiries, I thought I'd share a fun fact list of my journey along with my regimen. 

Cheeeeez! 18 months old and afro happy

MY FUN HAIR FACTS

1.I was a toddler rocking  huge afros. I really appreciate my mother for this. She had me wearing braid outs until first grade and I loved it!

2. As a child I maintained my curls with VASELINE and water. My edges and curls were LAID. I thought I had the secret until I went swimming and my hair turned white. My mother had to wash it out with dish detergent.

3. I've only worn a relaxer for 10yrs of my life (age13-23) *whispers* I'm going on 20yrs natural again. *winks*

4. I love hair color! I keep this strictly professional. 

5. People tend to think my hair is a wig or wig piece. I've been called some colorful names when I've replied "It's my natural hair."   One woman went as far as pointing me out to store patrons "she's a lying *BLEEP*" Geesh! She was mad!

6.There are NO holy grail products in my regimen. I switch up products all the time. When I find something I really like I keep it replenished but I still try other things.

7.My favorite hair tool is the Denman brush. A curly hair gift from the heavens. Amen! 

8. I am not a slave to my hair. 

Bonus fact: My husband usually colors, cuts and blow dries my hair. Who is spoiled? Meeeee!

Me today wearing a Wash and go

HAIR REGIMEN

Daily:  leave in conditioner/moisturizer. During the summer I use products specific for sun protection.

Weekly: Shampoo and condition. During the winter when my scalp is most dry, I do a bi-weekly scalp treatment.

Monthly: I alternate with deep conditioners according to my hair needs. I usually use a protein reconstructor of some sort every other month.

Bi Monthly: IF I stick to it then this is when I trim my hair. 

Quarterly: Hair color. new or retouch depending on if I'm using permanent or demi permanant. 

Yearly: Once a year I take off about 4 inches.  I don't have a clue as to how that number became the target but for the last 5yrs that's what it has been.  

See! No tricks or special effects. Just two tired arms trying to maintain what is affectionately known as the gorgeous beast.  Are you natural or straight? How do you maintain your healthy hair? Share some of your favorite hair tips below. 

 

ABC Scandal: From Cowardice to Courageous?

photo: Scandalgladiators.tumblr.com

It has taken me one minute and an entire Scandal season later to really sit with this line. As I was watching the Scandal BET marathon on last Saturday, this line struck me like I had never heard it before. I am stunned! Let me tweet, then repeat that one more time: "What kind of coward was I to marry her and not wait for you to show up?" *fans self* Fitz is a BOSS! He is the giver of lip quivers, slow breathes and hot flashes. Undergarments don't stand a chance of staying dry with this kind of macking happening on "The Trail" (S1, Ep106). There are no more words to be spoken so they just hold hands. Sweaty hands. I'm sure. It was during their silence, the line began to marinate.  WOAH! WAIT ONE MINUTE!! Did he say "what kind of coward" as in there are a variety of choices?  Senator Grant's assertion of his cowardice behavior was more profound than we knew at that time. In one line this man desperately exhales "I settled, Courage is difficult for me, I need love, and I want every inch of YOU." GEESH! Instant heat and passion aside, what's a woman to do with that confession?  I'll take feed the passion for one thousand Alex.! Nooooo This is Olivia Pope! She will do what comes natural: fix him. She thinks he needs her and no matter the pain she is all in. Liv's perception on love is one minute past cracked, it's broken.

"One Minute" is more than just feeding the feel good, it's a brief moment of courage for Fitz.  The courage to live, love, and be loved in that moment. This courage allows him to reveal vulnerabilities which have been masked for years. We can surely blame his father Big Jerry for that.  Olivia would never use his character flaws against him for her own personal gain.  Liv unlike everyone else, doesn't have an agenda (although I feel she is someone else's. That's why she was sent in. *coughs* Rowan!) therefore she doesn't fight Fitz for what's best for her. She totally gets her cowardly lion. She believes in his greatness. He's strong, attractive, passionate and he has "superpowers". Olivia professed "I will eat, sleep, drink Fitzgerald Grant" and as my girl Awesomely Luvvie said "He surely ate Liv Pope"  Yes, indeed! Reciprocity has never looked so good in 60 seconds. The problem is, when they surpass that time span everything gets messy and the revelation remains the same.  Fitzgerald Grant is still a coward.

As promised, here is your Harrison fix. He is skeptical about this line too.

What do you think? Was I too harsh on Fitz? This is what happens during a long break and a stint in rehab. I may have a change of opinion next week. Give it to me Gladiators. What's your take on this line?

100 Scoopsies: A Blog for Ice Cream Lovers Everywhere

photo credit: 100Scoopsies.blogspot.com

Sometimes you can come across really amazing blogs when you least expect it. A few months ago, the most inviting ice cream pictures kept streaming through in my Facebook feed. Being a true lover of this frozen treat compelled me to do a little "research".  Two clicks later, I found 100 Scoopsies , a blog which follows the journey of two super adorable friends, Sarah Hayes and Cloe Jankowitz as they churn out 100 flavors of ice cream in one year. Can you imagine creating one hundred ice cream flavors in 365 days?  Me either, but I CAN imagine tasting them. Makes you wonder who gets to eat all of it, right? Get this! After every 20 flavors, the ladies have an ice cream social featuring their best flavors of the quarter. So then the question becomes, Where does one sign up for this delightful event?

These ladies both share a dream of one day having their own brand of ice cream and it looks like they are well on their way to attaining that dream.  Sarah and Cloe have come up with some unique and creative flavors like:

Coconut Curry Ice Cream

Chocolate Avocado Ice Cream

Blueberry Basil Ice Cream

Some of their creations have made me recall the fact that I have an ice cream maker tucked away somewhere.  I may one day actually pull it out to try one of their yummy recipes. I said "I may" which means this most likely won't happen in real life. What I will do in the meantime is continue to follow 100 Scoopsies. I wish Sarah and Chloe all the best and many blessings over this journey to having their own ice cream brand. You can do it! Uhm, yeah and about the social sign up? 

Banana Chai Ice cream

IF I were to attempt one of the Scoopsies recipes, I think Banana Chai would be one I would churn out. How about you? What Scoopsies flavor would you like to taste and/or make? 

My Obsession: I Love Clouds

Have you ever been drawn to something but you have no idea as to when the connection happened in your life? That's how I feel about clouds. I have a serious obsession with clouds. So much so that I will pull my car over to take pictures at any given time.  Sometimes I think it started when I was a child. I used to think we lived in God's mouth.  This is was how I interpreted "God is everywhere". To me, He was everywhere because we were forever present in His mouth.  In my little mind, clouds were God's way of  sending us signs and messages. If a cloud had a particular shape that I could identify that meant to pray for that thing. Yes, I prayed for many animals, a few old people and someone's car. LOL  I still giggle at how I made sense of these amazing forms of condensed water vapor.  After every giggle, a prayer follows. I give thanks for how I feel God spoke to me as a very small child. 

Like many young and old, I still  look for pictures within, count them as they float by, and shutter when they are in their warning colors.  No matter the climate or season, clouds bring me peace and happiness. Sometimes I'm that kid again, looking for a sign or message in a cloud. "Hi God! *giggles* "You've made some really nice ones today. *claps quietly*" I'll prop my head on my hands and just take in their beauty.  Although I'm an adult they still know how to touch my spirit in the same manner as years gone by. I don't know what it is that truly connects me to clouds but I'm so grateful for how they make me feel.  So, the next time your out I hope you see a cloud and if nothing else think of this post and smile.

Do you have any nature obsessions? Do you look for images in clouds? What are you connected to that brings you joy at any given time?

Boston Magazine's Battle of the Burger 8/13/2013

PRESENTED BY

It's here! The official meat slinging showdown is upon us. Boston Magazine's Battle of the Burger will be Boston Strong on August 13th, 2013.  Come out and taste Boston's Top 20 restaurant's burgers and meet the Chef's behind these amazing creations. Amstel Light,  the only light beer with a rich flavor profile that can stand up to the most unique burger creations will be on hand to make sure every burger bite goes down smooth.  Sounds good right?! It doesn't stop there. There will be live entertainment for dancing. Here is where I slip in a blatant hint : Dude! you can totally bring a date. Beer, Burgers and dancing by the water! Date is happy + you're happy = Possible 2nd date? You get me? Ok, back to house business. If you're wondering "Will they only be serving burgers?" No,custom side dishes and desserts will be on hand for your complete dining pleasure. So, yeah that about covers it. Now hurry over to the Boston Magazine site and buy your tickets! I'll see you on Tuesday!! AND Remember, this is supposed to be a wicked good time so let me remind you of one very important thing: NO DRINKING AND DRIVING. If you plan to partake in the overflowing of  the Amstel frothy goodness then have a designated driver and/or plan to take a cab home. Your safety is important to us. K! Thanks! 

EVENT INFORMATION

WHEN: TUESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2013

TIME: 6 - 10 p.m.

WHERE: Black Falcon Cruise Terminal (1 Black Falcon Avenue, South Boston)

IMPORTANT: 

Rain date: August 14th 6-10pm

The need for a rain date will be determined and communicated by Monday morning on August 12th. We will do our best to hold the event on the 13th, but are retaining a rain date of August 14th in the event that the forecast for the 13th shows serious rain/thunderstorms. No refunds are available.  More ticket info

Check out the list of battling burgers:

1.5 Napkin Burger ~5 Napkin Burger by Andy D’Amico: Ground beef topped with gruyere cheese, caramelized onions and rosemary aioli

2. Beantown Pub ~Beantown Burger by Willie Z: In house freshly ground blend of sirloin, filet and bacon topped with our unique specialties

3. The Blue Ox ~ Sin Burger by Matt O’Neil: USDA prime beef burger, applewood smoked bacon, truffle aioli, tomato, lettuce, brioche bun

4. BOND ~ The Whole-Y Cow by Mark Sapienza and Nick Gurski: Northeast Family Farms beef  blend of  locally raised ground brisket, short rib and chuck, grilled and served on a housemade salted pretzel roll, served with Amstel Wheat braised Vidalia onion, Thistle Hill Tarentaise cheese and housemade mustard

5. Boston Burger Company ~ The Vermonster by Paul Malvone: Maple mayo, sharp cheddar cheese, caramelized granny smith apples, red onions, maple syrup and bacon

6. Brew City ~ Love Muffin: All natural Angus burger with slow roasted pork, candied bacon, smoked peach jam and cream cheese aioli on an English muffin

7. Cafeteria Boston ~ The Lamb Burger by Antonio Perez: Ground lamb, tzatziki, kalamata olives, tomatoes, lettuce, onions and feta

8. Ceia Kitchen + Bar ~ Ceia Signature Kobe Burger by Patrick Soucy: Manchego, serrano, heirloom tomato,paprika aioli and fresh made Farmer’s Reserve ketchup

9. El Centro ~ La Poblana by Allan Rodriguez: Imported Mexican ground beef on the grill topped with a fire-roasted Poblano pepper stuffed with a Oaxaca cheese, then topped with grilled onions,bacon, lettuce, tomato, fresh avocado and Chile Poblano mayonnaise with pickled carrots, onions and jalapenos, served on Mexican felera bread

10. The Fireplace ~ The Fireplace Burger by Jim Solomon: Shelburne Farms (VT) Cheddar stuffed grass-fed burger with thick cut bacon, caramelized onion, lettuce, tomato and house brined dill pickle on a homemade English muffin

11. Forum ~ Forum Burger by Matthew Barros: Brandt Family Farms all natural grass fed beef, crispy house cured pancetta, smoked gouda, spicy pineapple relish, fried egg, served on a brioche bun

12. Foundry on Elm ~ Foundry Chef’s Burger by Derek Clough: 100% Maine grass fed beef, spicy house bbq,sweet bacon jam, great hill blue cheese, shaved dill pickles and pickled red onions on Iggy’s brioche bun
13. Joe’s American Bar & Grill ~ All American BBQ Bacon Cheddar Burger by David Forbes: Fresh ground chuck, bbq basted, crispy pork belly, two year aged Vermont cheddar and maple Cajun bacon jam served on a griddled poppy bun served with house cured pickles
14. Salvatore’s ~ The Wicked Stuffed by Chuck Barbato: Black Angus stuffed with fresh mozzarella and raisin, topped with charred sweet onion, grilled smoked pancetta and sriracha mayo
15. Shake Shack ~ ShackBurger by Mark Rosati: Cheeseburger topped with lettuce, tomato and Shacksauce
16. Smith & Wollensky ~ Cajun Gorgonzola Burger by Matt King: Prime beef, Cajun seasoning, melted gorgonzola, arugula and red onion marmalade
17. Tasty Burger ~ Slap Yo Mamma! by Brian Reyelt: Our signature patty topped with cheese, fried pickles,jalapenos and BBQ sauce
18. Tommy Doyle’s ~ The Corky Pig Burger by Andrew McLendon: Named after Porky Pig and County Cork,Ireland, 8 oz. Angus beef topped with an Irish bacon rasher, American bacon, jalapenos, fried onion petals, bleu cheese crumbles, bleu cheese dressing and bacon jam (traditional southern jam made with bacon instead of fruit)
19. Trade ~ TRADE Burger by Andrew Hebert: All natural ground beef with pancetta, Vermont cheddar, grilled onions, homemade pickles, lettuce, and tomato on Iggy’s brioche bun
20. Wahlburgers ~ OFD (Originally from Dorchester) Burger by Paul Wahlberg: 8 oz. patty with bacon, Swiss cheese, sautéed mushrooms and homemade tomato jam on a potato roll


This list is INSANE! Right?! I read the first ten and got full. Geesh! Which Burger would you try?
Found a burger you'd like to try but can't make it to the event? That's ok, click the highlighted name and go straight to the restaurants site for more information. Lets really show #BostonStrong and support our local businesses.
Follow #BurgerBattle on Twitter  to stay up to date on the event.

ABC Scandal Recruitment Month: I'm a Gladiator with Questions

Well, here we are again for another session of Scandal Rehab. I told you I would be back on last week. Missed it? Go read about my mishandled feelings. I know you feel the same way and that's why I kept my word and came back to rehab with you. We're in this together. Every time the show comes up in conversation, I just....pheeeeew *rattles hands*    So we are going to talk this out.  As I stated before, I have so many question surrounding Quinn. She's like the golden goose that they're passing off as a naive duckling. I don't buy it! NO! The video came up today and it just further played on to my suspicions. Did you watch it yet?  This is a two for one so pull up a chair.

Let us first take a look, pause, and then stare at Harrison. Yes indeed! CoYUMbus knows he can wear a suit and talk fast. He is ignoring everyone and everything around him because that blackberry is more important. WE DON'T CARE! Gingham less and all we are here for Harrison Wright. Enters Quinn *rolls eyes* Girl,what you won't do is show up acting privileged but looking subsidized and THINK you will disrespect him.  We should have known Quinn was crazy out of the gate. Who rolls up on YUM with such disregard, talking about "I don't do blind dates."  THEN insults him with "You're a baby lawyer. You're twelve years old."  HUH?  She didn't want him to look bad by standing  him up, engages in condescending banter, finds out she has a job, THEN out of the kindness of her heart she sits to let the "baby" buy her a dirty martini.?  LAWD! You see what I'm talking about?  Her loop is fruitless. *sigh*  That aside for the moment.  She applied for a job with THE Olivia Pope? Was this application sent post amnesia? Who applied, Lindsey the law student or Quinn the lawyer? Mmmmmhhhhhmmm Somebody needs to go through Verna's belongings. She would have given us the tea on Ms. Dwyer-Perkins.  How does this tie into Olivia deciding she, Quinn, was worthy of a life time save from a huge murder wrap?  Can we speculate that she was given the job without an interview because they wanted to keep a close eye on protect her? And I think it's interesting that Harrison made reference to Quinn's breathing, Huck did the same thing when he started "training" her. *passes out a few fans cause I know ya'll didn't see that one coming*  Don't sleep on the mighty Quinn. Watch!

photo credit: scandaltv.net

Ok, back to Harry. He was sent out to "interview" Quinn but there is some good information for us to think about since we don't have his backstory yet.
He's 28 yrs old
He STILL uses a Blackberry (but we won't judge him)
His parents are inseparable
He has a habit of giving you a killer smile mid sentence. It's his secret weapon to throw you off your game.
His parents met on a blind date
When he buys a woman dinner then that means he's interested.  Has he sprung for dinner in the last two seasons? Somebody want to take this one?
He generally doesn't lie.
Harrison as you can see is not wearing gingham in this clip. Why? Were things on the mild front?
He is  gladiator in a suit and If you want to be one then say it "I'm a Gladiator in a Suit!"

HAHAHA! It's #ScandalRecruitment Month!

How do you feel about Quinn? Did I deliver on the Ginham fix this week? Who is ready to tune into BET this Saturday, August 10th for a Scandal Marathon? I'll be watching and tweeting.

Gorgeous New England: The Cookie Monstah (Boston's Mobile Cookie Truck)

My mom and I were out and about on a shopping trip when we walked up upon The Cookie Monstah, a mobile cookie truck.  In one quick whiff of  fresh baked cookies, Mom and I stood asking "should we get a cookie NOW or should we shop first?"  You're probably thinking "Why couldn't they do both?"  Well, some things in life require your full attention and should not be done at the same time; Shopping AND eating good cookies fall into that category. We decided to look over the cookie menu (from afar) and come back after we shopped.  I think we set a record, we were done in a short time and right back to the truck.  Oh decisions, decisions! What should I get?  All of the cookies were lined up so pretty as if in a museum case.  The minute you relished one smell, an imaginary fragrant finger would grab you by the nostrils and lead you to another. Oh shoots! I'm really having a dilemma. I know I want the cookie n' ice cream option but what combination should I go with?  At this point I'm a happy but lost 5yr old. My Mom, not so much. She steps up, gestures for me to move over and says "While she's still deciding I'll take..." She rattles off about 3 or 4 cookies. What?! Really Mom!!  She then looks at me and smiles "I don't know which ONE I want so I will try the ones that sound good to me."  Myself and the very nice gentleman running the truck let out a laugh. He and I agreed, "She is a woman who knows what she wants and gets it."  

I finally chose the Cashew Turtle Ice Cream with the Signature Chocolate Chunk Cookie

In between our  my moment of indecision, we spoke with the gentleman about the truck. Sir, was this your brilliant idea? No, his sister Missy Gale is the owner and baker of  these delicious homemade cookies. This mother of four believes so much in the comfort of the chocolate cookie that she crafted up a plan to share her best cookie recipes with her friends, family and US!. Why thank YOU Missy Gale. Boston appreciates the fact that we can now get cookie wasted (cold milk included). If you need a cookie fix, the mobile cookie truck can be found in and around the Boston area, at special events in the Massachusetts, or get this, AT YOUR PRIVATE EVENT.  Yes, you can rent the truck! And if that's not in your budget, no worries, you can have a warm order of cookies delivered to you for less than $10 depending upon your Boston location.(click delivery Rate Card) So in the words Ms. Cookie Monstah herself, "Please come say hi, try a cookie or an ice cream sandwich, she looks forward to meeting you."

I can't remember what this  ice cream sandwich was called but it was delightful. We giggled all the way to the car while eating this Monstah. 

Just to give you an idea of  the type of cookie magic Missy Gale is baking up at several Boston locations (click to "Find the Truck") check out the ice cream sandwich list below:

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• The Classic: chocolate chunk cookie with vanilla ice cream.
• The Tahitian: oatmeal coconut cookies with coconut ice cream.
• The Shortcake: sugared sugar cookies with strawberry ice cream.
• The Salty Dog: salted caramel cookies with totally turtle ice cream.
• The Mudslide: double chocolate cookies with coffee Oreo ice cream.
• The Green Monstah: chocolate chunk cookies with green monster ice cream(mint Oreo).
• The Peanut Squared: creamy peanut butter cookies with peanut butter ice cream.
• The Nor’easter: red velvet cookies with white chocolate chunks and chocolate ice cream.
• The Cinnabomb: oatmeal cinnamon raisin cookies with rum raisin ice cream.
• The Choco Rainbow: M &M cookies with chocolate ice cream.
• The Limonada: lemon poppy cookies with purple cow frozen yogurt.
• PB &J: peanut butter cookies with strawberry ice cream.

The list is serious, right? Ok, who wants to meet up and get cookie wasted? 
Follow The Cookie Monstah on Facebook

Boston Mints Naturally Refreshing Lip Gloss

(click photo to view gloss names)

photo credit: BostonMints.com

Boston Mints Lip Gloss , are long lasting sheer lip glosses that come in 12 shades and carry the names of some really cool local New England hot spots. Creator and Makeup Artist, Joanne Ilacqua created the naturally refreshing glosses as a custom lip cosmetic which provides nourishing treatment to lips that are exposed to the punishing lights of photo shoots. "Boston Mints are made of natural ingredients including spearmint leaf oil, aloe vera gel, vitamins C and E, with antioxidants to reduce damage and premature aging. The lip glosses offer a natural, healthy alternative to the coal tar based products."  The glosses garnered rave reviews from both her model and spa clients. These "Mint-y" gems delivered the benefits we all seek in a good lip product: good texture, color and long lasting qualities and their new perky pouts couldn't stop talking about it.  There was no way Ms. Ilacqua could keep this great product as her makeup kit's secret weapon, and she didn't! *fist pumps* Boston Mints are now available to purchase online and at several locations around Massachusetts.  The price tag on these gems start at $9 and come in either full or travel size. 

 Photo credit: BostonMints

My love for a good red brings my eyes straight to "Go Sox". However, "Plantation Peach" looks like a perfect pop of  color for the summer. Oh, decisions! Decisions! What color/s do you see making it onto your lips and into your cosmetic bag?

Follow Boston Mints on Facebook

Peter Lamas Avocado & Olive Shampoo and Conditioner Review

It's summertime and the frizz has been high. A pair of bottles in my closet must have heard the hoarse cry of my dry hair shaft.   Peter Lamas Avocado and Olive Ultra Smoothing Shampoo and Conditioner has stepped forward to help tame the mane I affectionately refer to as "the beast". Has it been successful? Absolutely! This tag team leaves my tresses Ultra soft, Ultra detangled, and Ultra moisturized. Dare I say that their "Ultra" claim is the truth?  Yes I can!  If  I may be honest, when I read  "to condition and tame curly, frizzy, hard-to-manage hair", I thought "Yeah, I heard this all before. Tame? LOL This beast?! *glances up* Ok! Let me see what you can do."  The moment of truth was instantaneous. I shampooed my hair and was pleased because: 1. My hair color didn't fade and 2. My hair wasn't a rat's nest. Oh My! So far the shampoo held up to it's claim. I could run my fingers through the small kinks (tangles) and the hair would separate. Ok, Alright...The beast was calm but was it tamed?  I had to get this conditioner in to see if it too were as good as its claims.  It's important to mention that the soft scent of lime brought me pure enjoyment. *swoons*  I love lime scented hair and body products. When a brand can give that invigorating scent  and the benefits I'm looking for, it's all a win.  Now back to the conditioner, which claims: "a natural moisturizer and soother"..."to leave hair smooth and ultra-shiny"... and "nourish scalp to give you a lusciously soft, manageable locks."   Surely, this reparative conditioner (just as the shampoo) which is rich in protein and vitamins came to not only contend but to restore and win.  My hair felt so good (and looked good too!). The beast, as you can see from the picture below was tamed and remains tamed during these hot summer days.  Typically I would have had to give myself a few deep treatments to repair and restore from sun damage but that's not been the case after using the Peter Lamas Avocado and Olive Shampoo and Conditioner.  The beast is happy and so am I. Now, if only someone would come massage my arms after all of this. So goes the life of a girl with big hair. lol

My hair is about 60% dry in this picture. I left a little bit of conditioner in my hair. 

Think you would give this a try?  How do you remedy your summertime frizz?

*product sent by brand rep for review consideration

Revolving: Every Action Comes Back Around

As I was perusing my Facebook newsfeed I came across the above post written by Carmen B from LipstickFashionMascara.com. It's a topic I've heard and read about repeatedly over this past month. 

I used to think confronting these types of people would put everything in check but that's not always the case. Let's be honest, some people will never take responsibility for their wrongs so with that I leave you with my response to Carmen's post:

Dear Receiver of this treatment, 

Please understand and believe that the perpetrator's gratification will only render a very short return on what looks like glory.  I know it stings, ESPECIALLY when they post or talk about a success publicly and you know the truth. Oh! and when they polish up the public announcement with a church stomp and the admonishing of  THE Giver of ALL blessings, it just grinds your gears. Yup, I know. False advertising ticks me off too. This behavior is a returning gift unto themselves.  It will not come wrapped pretty nor will it be gently delivered. Pray for them because the repercussion drums WILL sound!!

Sincerely,

Recovered and Victorious 

Special thanks to Carm for this inspired post. 

Have a blessed Sunday Gorgeous Ones!

I Chose to Pin and Now I'm Caught in the Pinterest Matrix

Every night, well maybe not every, I find myself feeding my ever growing Pinterest addiction. You know the site where you create themed boards and "pin" pictures inspired by that theme? I hope you're nodding your head yes. If not, please get your pinning life in order, go open an account, and then share the link below so we can support your addiction  creative journey. I understand that some may not have accounts so I share my pins via my Twitter and Facebook .  Why? Because I care and I'm trying to draw you into the pinning matrix. LOL  My friend Azia refers to my love of pinning as Pinterest Rants. She loves them and according to my notifications others share the same sentiment. I started out with five boards and now I have 12 and counting. From Beauty to Food to Entertainers, there is something for everyone to enjoy. One of my most popular boards is called "Let's Go back In Time". It's nostalgic theme lends to good humor, perplexity and jaw dropping astonishment.

 The pictures  below are just a glimpse at the retro foolishness I've come across on the net and my board is better for it. The food ads on the board are just as comical.  I'm so glad I came after the era where mayonnaise seemed to go well on EVERYTHING. You would pass on that as well, right? Good! but don't let it deter you from its comedy greatness. A good laugh is not to be avoided on my board. Take a look...

Offensive? Maybe, depending on the couples sense of humor.

 A funny gift in this era but I'm thinking not so much in the 50's

"Fill your cup to the rim, with Brim"

 I remember seeing this ad when I was a kid. My Nana was a Folger's Coffee drinker so this stuff wasn't allowed anywhere near her "dripper".

This has to be THE funniest picture of 70's men fashion. Hard creased onsies jumpsuits? Really? Ruffled Grape looks like he believes the smile and pose will bring the girls to his cool while Mixed Browns looks like he may have reservations about this whole situation. 

Now with all of this fun awaiting you, won't you join me?

photo credit: bigsoundbigpicture.com

   What are your favorite things to pin? What are your favorite boards? Leave your Pinterest URL in the comments so we can check you out.

A Better Breakfast On The Go Happens The Right Way With Special K's Nourish

Breakfast wasn't always an easy commitment for me some years ago but after I had children things changed. Morning talks and laughs over a good breakfast have made for some of our best funny stories. Nothing beats a hot homemade breakfast but sometimes due to scheduling we need something quick, HEALTHY, and filling. Special K Nourish Hot Cereal  is a smooth mix of multi grains with added nuts and berries.  I was a little apprehensive to try because I've never been a fan of instant anything, ESPECIALLY hot cereal. It tends to taste chalky and the visual presentation reminiscent of a bad batch of  lumpy preschool paste just turns my stomach. Still against my better judgement I try to tweak it and I end up feeling like "I should have just made a pot from scratch." *dumps instant travesty into trash* Hmmmph!

Time passes and...

K Nourish arrives at my house( via BzzAgent) with a successful attempt at piquing my interest. "Looking for a nourishing start to your day?" "Eat right, not less. Less than 200 calories plus superfoods like quinoa, oats, wheat, and barley".  Well, Yes! and OK! I put on some water to boil, sliced up some peaches and made a quick decision on which flavor to try first.

KNourish cereal l-r: Maple Brown sugar Crunch, Cranberry Almond, Cinnamon Raisin Pecan

KNourish nutrition bars t-b: Cranberry Almond, Lemon Twist, Dark Chocolate Nut Delight

I decided to give the Cranberry Almond a try. As you can see from the picture below, the cereal thickens up quite nicely.  Plump cranberries and almonds are plentiful so you get some in every spoonful.  My teen kept hovering around "Hey Mom, whatcha eatun'? It smells good." *leans in to get a good look" "Oatmeal? A new oatmeal? Is it good? You care to let me taste it?" LOL This kid! After all questions where answered to his satisfaction, the end result was "TEEN DEVOURS MOM'S HOT CEREAL" and his two word review for you is "It's Amazing!" He has since tried to eat the other two flavors and all of the nutrition bars. Since we are a family that likes to laugh together more than being mad at each other, we have shared this KNourish experience together. 

K Nourish Cranberry Almond steeped at 3min (bottom left) and 5min (bottom right)

K Nourish will definitely find it's way back into our kitchen. The Nutrition bars aren't bad but myself nor my family eat them much.  I'm more of a traditional hard granola bar kind of girl and these bars are softer., moderately sweet (which I like!) with a slight crunch. The Dark Chocolate Nut Delight is trying to convert me and that Teenager I mentioned earlier may be on its side. Here's the deal, if you put cashews and dark chocolate on the same ingredient list, call it healthy (and mean it!) and successfully make it taste good then you win me over a a consumer. Ssssshhhh don't tell the boy child I surrendered. He'll know the outcome on the next trip to the grocery store. 

This is a good brownie alternative for those on a weight management regimen.

What's your on the go breakfast option? Have you seen Special K Nourish on the shelves yet?  I surrendered to dark chocolate ya'll, wouldn't you?

*product sent via BZZAgent for review consideration.

ABC's Scandal Has Me Feeling Mishandled

NOT really!

It's been a month of Thursdays without Scandal and my feelings are not handled.  So much so that I'm only willing to acknowledge one solid month of missing the show. This is where you nod your head and say "Yeah, Girl" THIS is your moment of solidarity. The moment you hold your heart and say "I'm with you Girl!" Learning that they pushed the premiere date out from September 12th to October 3rd, has me feeling like Scandal delivered a bouquet of melancholy to my virtual soul. Pheeew! Just thinking about it gives me the Withers...



*Sways* "Ain't no sunshine when she's gooooone. She's always gone too long, anytime she goes away" *throws a hanky* YAS! Tell me Scandal doesn't make you feel like that!! When Seven Fifty Two wrestles you into a corner, takes hold of your life and you rock back n forth."I know, I know, I know, I know, I know....aint no sunshiiiiiine when she's gooooone... this house just ain't no home.... Chiiiiile, you will mess around and catch the sweats like Withers in that video because your Thursday is somber and darkness is rolling in the way . I undAHstand! I do!  This tale was foretold in a feature on The Root(Scandal withdrawal: It's a Real Thing) The withdrawal is real and rehab needs to be taken seriously.  Like me, you have tried to fill the void and nothing can take the place of your Thursday night love. Olivia Pope and her misfit of associates have hucked us all the way up. Left us wondering who leaked that Liv is Fitz's side piece. Scandal had us Casper'd when Liv said "Dad?"  We were confused, shaken and chest clinching like Cyrus upon the cold slate. Our pressure just would not go down like Mellie did in the shower scene. NOPE!  Our Gladiators suits are heavy  but our emotions will deal. Period!   By the way, I'm not pleased at the "#WhoIsRowan?" campaign. There are many pertinent questions which are far  more worthy than that one. Last Season it was #WhoIsQuinn? We STILL don't know. Yeah, Yeah, Yeah her name is Lindsey Dwyer. AND? How come she has survived TWO boyfriends being murdered in association to Defiance? Why is her life so much more valuable? Her daddy didn't seem like he would be camped on the white house lawn if she had gotten blown up with her boo.So again, Why was her life more valued and she worthy of being a Gladiator? Did she really just tuck her anger and 5g's away after that Huck speech (Ep:213 Nobody Likes Babies)? Is she REALLY a natural at bludgeoning and torturing? Nah, I don't buy it. Huck was so concerned about her enjoyment, he alerts Liv who is just as concerned. So ya'll just gave her B-613 training cause ya'll feel bad for saving her life? Again, NOPE, NOT buying IT. Remember, Verna wished they would have let her hang in court (Ep: 202 The Other Woman) Why didn't they since she believed Quinn could bring down the whole government?  Mmmmmhmmmmm

See! I have good questions and since I've committed to the #31WriteNow challenge, (A post everyday for the month of August. Read about it on Awesomely Luvvie) you can come back every Thursday and feed your Scandal rehab needs right here.

Now understand this isn't your traditional Rehab. We're not here to fix anything. WE ARE ENABLERS. We FEED the issue. LOL  Our motto is:
LET ME AND MY DENIAL WORK IT OUT ON OUR OWN TERMS! Shooo
So if you:
~ Need to root for the side chick the poms poms marked OLITZ are down the e-hall on the right.
~ Long for some fast talkers on a Thurday night, myself and some of the best table shakers can be found in the Twittersphere lounge.
~ Are having a neurotic Abby moment, leave your rant below in the comments
~ Just need a gingham fix:

photo courtesy of  ABC

YOU'RE WELCOME!!

How can we be of help to you in the Rehab? What has you so scandalized that you need to talk it out? Tell us about it, we are here for you. Lay your burdens at the door *points to shiny bucket marked "Hold Your Morals"* and come on in and chat.