I'm Back!!!!!!

Geesh, it has been a while. I've neglected my blog so bad but I am back and ready to go! Hello to everyone and thanks for visiting my blog. I am getting ready to gear up for a big change, including changing my blog so be on the look out! So much has changed since I last blogged and I think it is time I change direction and focus!! So get ready and stay tuned!

I hope every one has had an amazing summer and please, update me on what has been going on!!!!

Talk to you soon!
Yo

Hello From DC!

Happy Fourth of July to all of You. Sorry I have been so MIA, I will fill you guys in around the end of July. But I had a few minutes while everyone is getting dressed to write a quick blog and say hello! I have been keeping up with the bloggers I follow but this summer has been so hectic, I haven't been able to blog as much as I want to! It shall resume on regular schedule really soon. I had to take a break to focus on some other things...

So anyway, I hope everyone has a safe and pleasant 4th. This weather is hot but with good food and family/friends, it will make it all right! Safe travels and have a great fourth!

S.N. :Oh and I have another niece coming any day now! I'm super excited and I can't wait to be an auntie for the "nth" time! I've lost count at this point! But I love all of my babies the same!

Something Fun!

Good Morning and Happy Monday to Everyone! I wanted to take a few minutes to do something fun since my last few posts have been on the serious tip. So this is a team effort. It's not going to be fun if I am the only one who participates!

So I ave a few questions for you all. I will answer them myself but I want some responses from you! It is the summer and all!!!!

1. So right now I am _______________.
-Sitting here eating some spinach dip and enjoying a Redbox (New Year's Eve)
2. This summer, my most exciting plans include __________________.
-Going to DC for a week with my sweetheart's family. He is there for the summer and we are going to visit during the first week of July!
3. Out of all the delicious foods that you have at summer cookouts, what is the one thing that will upset you if it is missing from the table?
-Hmmmm, this is a hard one...hotdogs with that good ole summer chili
4. Do you have a twitter? If so, list your twittername so I can follow you!
-@yoyo_says_so
5. What is something you were expecting for the year? It is six months in so what is the status of that?
-To get to stability-its getting there...It is a process


So get to answering these questions and follow me on twitter...I am slowly getting back in social networking!

Have a marvelous Monday and be blessed my friends~

Lessons in Life: When is the Last Time You Paid it Forward?

I am moving super slow with this series of posts but we will get through this, TOGETHER! So in this series we are examining a few things about ourselves and our lives. The last two posts can be found on my in the post before last! Ok the question for this post is question number 3, How do you pay it forward? And here we go!

In order to get you have to give. It is the circle of life. So if you are expecting, make a difference in someone's life with a simple smile or with your time or simply giving a homeless person a meal or little pocket change. Try doing this at least once a day. If you just take 5 seconds to show you care about someone other than yourself, you will find that things will start to shift in your life.

So, what does paying it forward actually mean? From what I can gather, it is simply the act of a deed being repaid in return of having someone do a good deed for you. (You get me?). So it is simply doing a good deed in lieu of offering something else. So how does it apply?

I can say for myself that I am blessed. I know a lot of you can say the same. So with all of the blessing that gets done for you, how do you go about repaying God for all that He does for you? Do you volunteer? Offer you talents? Counsel? Pay your tithes? etc...These are just a few things that can be seen as "paying it forward" and thus increasing your happiness and the happiness of those around you. I don't know how often you volunteer your time or do something nice for someone in need but I know that when I do it, it makes me feel like I am being useful.  Not to mention, if you pay it forward, and the person you do something for pays it  forward, it will be a cycle that can help many people...and to know that it started with YOU!

As you go throughout your day, be a blessing to someone else and you will start to see blessings abundantly. I can't promise you will get something every single time but I do know that you will see a shift in your life...and remember to smile. You can't expect simple blessings if you go through your days with a mean mug. Plus, smiling helps you push past the pain of whatever is going on and helps you feel good on the inside. I promise it won't hurt :)

So today, make it your business to be a blessing to someone else!
Enjoy your Thursday!

2 Minutes is all I've got...

I'm not kidding. I am going to get this post done in two minutes...Let's roll

I 've been so busy I don't know what to do with myself. Between trying to live a healthy lifestyle, being my own boss, trying to stay my own boss, getting my sweetie off to DC, and trying to sleep, I don't have time for anything else...Like nothing...I have began I don't know how many posts, and great ones might I add just to be interrupted with one thing or another. I'm going to get this time management thing together. Things are starting to slow down. The main reason I've been slacking on my blog is because I have been in and out of town for the last month and a half...literally. Every weekend has been a different city in a different state...Greenville, Greensboro, ATL, Charlotte, DC, Silver Spring...I need a break. I proclaim this weekend my free to do what YoYo wants weekend. It won't be much considering all I really want to do is catch some zzz's in peace. Thats all. So with that I think my two minutes is up. I am not done blogging and I have much to come so stay tuned and let me know how you guys are doing. Anyone got vacays coming up? Weddings? anything big? I'm interested!

All right, I have to go but I will be posting some posts really soon! Have a great hump day everyone!

I've Been Tagged!!!

Hey Phenomenal People! I have been slightly neglectful but I can assure you that my blog is not far from my thoughts! I've been busy working, started my own homeschooling program for the summer. And on the road, which I can't seem to stay away from! A couple of weeks ago, I was held hostage by the party that NEVER ENDED! People from the Islands really do know how to party...I'm just saying. From there I've been working and enjoying life the way a 23 year old should. Now, let's get to it. Thanks to Daughter of Her King
THE RULES
Post the rules
You must post 11 things about yourself.
Answer the questions that your tagger posted for you.
Create 11 questions, then choose 11 people and tag them to answer your questions.
Remember to let them know you tagged them.
No tag backs.
Let the tagger know when you answered their questions.


1. I am a petite little thing who loves to eat. So much that I am often asked "where do you put all that food?" :)
2. I used to party way to hard in undergrad and to be honest I miss partying like a rockstar...

3. Since undergrad, I have become this boring old homebody however, in the last couple of months, I've been stepping on the scene with my fly girls and rocking it grown folk style!

4. If you were to ever run into me, you would most likely see me smiling. :)

5. I hate arguing...

6. I love my natural hair. My family hates it, but it makes me love my curls even more! They are so purty!!!

7. I am just learning to cook. Two weeks ago I made a homemade chicken pot pie. I could have cried, it was just that good!

8. I've been told I am beyond my years...I'd have to thank God for that!

9. I love God and all that He stands for. If you were to run into me one day, you hear me say something about Him at least once!

10. I have recently started taking interest in old wives tells and good ol country food. Like collard greens and chow chow. 

11. I am currently the only person in my family without children...

So to answer these questions from DHK...
1)What hairstyle are you currently rocking?
-Currently I am rocking the puff! I am natural and I am still in my puff stage so every day is the same thing...The puff
2)How long did you spend in primary school?
-I spent the normal 6 years, K-5. I had to get up out of there!
3)What is your naughtiest moment ?
-Yea, I won't address that. This is the world wide web. I don't want something coming back to haunt me years down the road.
4)How do you express your anger?
- I am a furious little beast! Just kidding. I usually shut down at first and think about the situation then I move on and try to work through it by doing yoga, blogging, or talking to someone about it.
5)What would you spend your last penny on?
- My last penny would go to a homeless person. I would be more than happy to bless someone with it. 
6)When was the last time you treated yourself to a niceeeeeee warm food?
- Two weeks ago I made this banging homemade chicken pot pie. So good I wanted to slap my momma!
7) Who was the last person you said  "I love you " to?
- My sweetie tahiti treatie! He is sitting right here as I type this and I like to remind him of my love for him.....
8) What is your favourite take away dish?
- Take away dish? But fave would be baked macaroni and cheese!
9) How do you eat in public, spoon, knife, fork or hands, loud, quiet, slow, fast etc?
- I usually eat with spoon, knife, fork if occasion calls for it. Hands for finger foods and quiet and fast if I am really hungry!
10)Do you polish your shoes?
- No...I don't wear the same shoes often enough to have to polish them...
11)What are your thoughts on after life?
- I think that everyone is going to get a chance to go to heaven it is just a matter of time...


Questions from me...
1. What is your biggest pet peeve?
2. What could you eat every single day with no conviction?
3. Where is your dream get-a-way location?
4. Do you polish your nails? 
5. What are your thoughts on love, in three words?
6. Do you have kids? If so, how many? 
7. How many siblings you do have?
8. What are your views on social media?
9. What is your favorite restaurant?
10. What would you spend your last dollar on?
11. What would be your last meal?


Taggess are:
Wonderfully Messy Mom 
Starting Over Fresh
Its Only Napptural
Some Things Speak For Itself
Don't get excited...it's just me 
The Truth is Stranger Than Fiction
Adventures of Team Pancakes!
Miz's Write For Life
The Natural Woman Today 
Chy's Curlz
Discoveries

Lessons in Life: Finding Joy in What You Already Have

So this post is a continuation of my last "Lesson in Life: Giving to Receive." Now, let me say for the record that no, I am not perfect and I don't claim to be. These are just a few things that I have been through and witnessed and felt compelled to write about. Ok now if you haven't read the last post, it had a few questions up there that are relevant to what I am about to say so I would suggest you go back and read that one. If you have the time. I will try to keep this one a little shorter.

This post is going to address question 2: What type of words would you use to describe your place in life? Are you grateful for your job right now? Do you thank God for waking you up? Are you grateful that your account has sufficient funds? These things, though taken for granted are the things that God placed in your life and you can best believe He wants to see you grateful for these things before He will bless you with more. If you are constantly complaining about your kids, your bills, your car, you can't expect more. It's just not going to happen. The words we speak have the power of life and death. We use so many words in a day and sometimes, I don't think we are cognizant of every thing that comes out of our mouth. The positivity or negativity  that we speak from out mouths can change the course of our lives. If we constantly speak about the good in our lives, speak words of gratefulness, so will we become.  If we walk around crying broke all the time, so will we become.  But you know this!

So what to do about this? I'm glad you asked! Moving forward, just watch what you say. If you want to see changes in your life, it starts with you. It starts with you accepting and being appreciative of what you have. You have to speak good over your life. You can't allow people to speak negative over you either. And if they do, you rebuke that immediately. And guard yourself daily by saying a prayer to God to shield you from other people's negative energy and negative words. If those are the people who surround you and you truly want things to change in your life? Well, you just might need to examine their worth in your life. You are trying to be elevated but you have baggage that holds you down...You can't get far with baggage. Negativity is baggage! Let it go!

...Stay Tuned...

Lessons in Life: Giving To Recieve

I have always been a giver. In elementary school I would always be the one with no pencils to write with because I always let someone borrow them. Being the second oldest sibling, giving became second nature considering the fact that I have two younger sisters. Now, as much as I give, I never have had a problem with going without things that I NEED. My wants, well, I like to have a lot of things, shoes, clothes, jewelry, all the things a girl wants. But when it has come down to what I needed, I was never left without. Now what I am about to get into isn't as cute as what I just wrote. If you are a stingy or selfish person, you might now like what I have to say. But I'm going to say it anyway...

This weekend I had an interesting and thought provoking experience. These verses became so relevant in my life. So enlightening! So if you would, turn with me to 2 Corinthians 9:7 which says, "Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver." I hear a lot of people complaining to be broke all the time. And well, if you want to stay that way, just remember that your words have the power of life and death. You want wealth, speak it into your life. You want stability, speak it into your life. That is the only way these things come...But before you get to speaking start with the home team and let's do some examinations...Ready?

1. You want more but do you fully appreciate what you have right now?

2. What type of words would you use to describe your place in life? If they aren't words of gratefulness, they aren't enough.

3. How do you pay it forward? Do you pay your tithes? Do you give to the homeless? Do you volunteer your time? 

4. Do you give cheerfully? Or do you give because you think it is the right thing to do? 

5. When God speaks to you, do you take heed to His directions?

6. Do you put your trust in man or do you put your trust in God?

Now, as you answer these questions, write them down. If any of these aren't pleasing to you or aren't pleasing to God, your next step is to work on those things to make them right. The first and last questions, I think, are the most important. Why? I'm glad you asked... God has a plan for your life. Everything that happens to you is a blessing. Nothing that God does for you is a curse. With that being said, if you are in a place in your life where you have what you NEED, and you can't be grateful, how do you expect God to elevate you and you can't be appreciative of what you have right now? You think He is going to keep giving to you and you don't thank Him with a cheerful heart? Try again... If you have things in your life that God has given you and you don't want to take care of those things, you think He will give you anything else to just let sit there? It's just not going to happen. When God gives us things whether it is a house, a car, or a child, these things are given to us as blessings and expected to be taken care of. We don't take care of them, we don't get to the next level. So, maintain what you have right now. Focus on what you have in front of you and be grateful and then you will see God start to shift things around in your life!

This is about to be a series of posts because this topic is way too long. Don't just wait for me to keep talking, comment and let me know what you think. 

...Stay Tuned...

Until next time! 

Later Phenomenal Ladies!

Happy Hump Day

I am up early this morning. Of course, watching TV and relaxing. A Jenny Craig commercial came on and one of the actresses said "How can you love someone you don't even know?" She was talking about herself and how she struggled with her weight. Part of her struggle was not recognizing herself in a body she was unhappy with. Of course that got my mind rolling like "that is a good point right there! I'm going to write a post with a twist about it." So here I am...Ready. Set. Go

How many days out of the year do we wake up feeling bad about something? It can be about the day before, a relationship, our self image, our self esteem, a whole host of things. But one day is one too many. Why? Well, I'm glad you asked. I don't know about you but I am my worst, harshest critic. When I say I am harsh, what I mean is, if I were my coach, I'd quit my team. But, I know this about myself now and I have been able to come up with new ways to handle disappointments in life. I had to, otherwise, I'd be plum crazy by 25. So how do I know this? There was a point in time when I was forced to have a self-reflection, come to Jesus time. In that time, I was able to pinpoint some things about myself that I love, things I like, and things I wanted to change. My change list was greater than everything else. Why? Because we always want to be something that we are not. And that is not always a bad thing, it just causes us to focus on the wrong thing at the wrong time. When we don't focus on what we have in front of us, how do we maintain it? It is great to think about the future and prepare for it but to not spend time maintaining what we have, we could be losing it all and not even know it!

Alright so the point...We all go through phases where we are not happy with ourselves. We don't feel the love that we should for ourselves and just to be clear, we need to love ourselves EVERYDAY! How do we do that when we don't spend time getting to know who we are...in the context of just being you. We surround ourselves with things that distract us, well I speak for myself. We don't give ourselves the time we need to learn and love who we are despite the things we are unhappy with. Now I am not saying don't change those things but I am saying, if there are things you are unhappy with in your life, you are the only one who can change it. Trust me, it is hard work but for the good of you, it is worth it. I saw a quote that said "If you don't like your story, change it." Don't let the things you don't like in your life keep you where you are! You have the power and talent to change the situation you are in. It is so worth the time and effort spent in getting to know yourself and LOVE yourself so that you can be the best you can all the time. It isn't easy. If it was, everybody would have this thing down packed and I wouldn't have a need to write this blog post! 

Side note: I am slowly getting back into social media. I now have a twitter...@yoyo_says_so

Add me, tweet me, follow me! 

Have a great Hump day

He's Been Good!

Good Friday to everyone! I mean, Happy Good Friday and I am glad to be here to experience it! I just wanted to write a quick update on my life and encourage those of you with my story! Now, I have not sugar-coated at all, the fact that I CANNOT stand either one of my jobs. I am grateful to have employment but I was becoming disenchanted with both of them. I had lunch with my old roommate and best friend and she explained to me that the reason I was feeling that way was because it was not what I was SUPPOSED to be doing...So all last week I went along but I couldn't help but think, what if I just stepped out on faith and quit both jobs? Well, one for sure. God had told me to stay put at the other. So I did. On Tuesday, on the way from work, I called my sweetie and asked him how he felt if I quit one of my jobs. He has this belief that we should wait until something else comes along before jumping the gun. So I did. Left it at that!


Wednesday afternoon, on our way to his doctor's appointment, I get a phone call from one of my older friends who has a daughter. She said she had a summer opportunity for me and that she wanted to pitch an idea. So I listened. She said she wanted her little lady to have some summer enrichment before going into the kindergarten. My role would be as a "home school teacher" of sorts, for the summer. Just so she could have some structure and learn some basic skills before going to a public elementary school. I agreed. She said there was another parent who wanted to add her child. Of course I said yes! So from that conversation, I became the owner of my first business! (Cross of on the 30 before 30 list!)

So as of April 30, I am resigning from both of my jobs and I can't say that I am sad. I am elated to be my own boss, even if it is just for a short period of time. An entrepreneur...That's me! Now I just need a name and a brand!

The lesson in this, be patient and let God work. I had no idea that my friend was cooking all of this up and who knows what would have happened had I left those jobs before my time! He has a plan and we just have to trust that no matter what, He will do what is best for us. He reminds us of that promise over and over again. Read Jeremiah 29:11 if you ever feel like He doesn't hear you. He does! He is just lining it all up for you!

Happy Easter and God Bless!

What Would You Do?

With 500 Million dollars? The NC Jackpot is 500 Million dollars and everyone and their momma's are betting on that money. So with that being said, if you won that money, what would be the top five things you'd do with it?????

Update: On Life

So I have been neglecting my blog so bad. I went from having a post every day to writing like, once a week! No bueno. It is my fault I won't lie, however, life has been happening so fast!!! So allow me to catch up, if I can. I hope everyone has had an amazing month of March. It has surely been an interesting one for me. My Sweetie was diagnosed with M.S but he is doing great. During the week we found out, he had midterms and took them with just one eye in function. Today he found out that he made the highest grade on one of the midterms! He is such a smartie. I am sure that helps him move forward with this new information. We've talked about it often and over time, he has began to deal with it a little better. Thank you Lord.

Remember in a post I was talking about Click Here to read it with my job? Well, after two weeks of investigations, I was transferred to another school. Which was good for me because I couldn't fathom being around people who call themselves Christian but lie in a situation they find convenient for them. So, the transfer was good. However, it was a whole new ball game of learning the people I was surrounded by. I will write a post about this soon but the energy of my new co-workers had me about to quit my job and not think twice. I pulled it together and found the source of the bad energy so now I am able to have my guard up with these new people...It is not easy!

So, what else is new??? My real estate class is going well. I am getting excited for the end of it but nervous about what is next...I had two classmates whose mom owns a real estate firm and has been very excited to chat with me but...I can never catch her! It is alright though. I have been trying to wrap my mind around these changes at my jobs so it is important that I deal with these things before going forward...I speaking of my jobs, I am so ready to move on to the next thing. Both of them are not doing it for me and well, it is about time to get something new...I will in God's time!

In other news, have you ladies heard Usher's new song "Climax?" Oh My Gee!!!! I am such an Usher fan and for the record, he can never have a bad song. But this one, this right here, yea he is going to cause some trouble with this song. I promise I will catch him at his next concert...That falsetto he had going on...whew, Lord...Ok that is all. I will not lust over Usher

One last thing and then I am gone...My friend just received news that the doctors have done all they can for her grandmother. Please join me in prayer for peace and comfort as they go forward.

That is all for now! I hope all of you enjoy your week and please, stay encouraged no matter what the situation may be. In all things, put God first and you will experience an unbreakable joy and inner peace over life!

I Take On the World!

I am a woman, in case you didn't know...And as a woman I possess some characteristics that will either make me crazy or extremely successful. These things are super awesome assets to have but can be excessive and overwhelming at times. For instance, I have my list of 30 by 30 things to do. And as you can see, I attempt to see and take on all of the world's problems, including my own. As attainable as that list is, it requires that everyday I am making moves towards something great, and that is where the strangeness comes in. There are some things on that list that without a doubt I will accomplish. There are some things on my mental list that I want to add but I am afraid that I won't have the heart to pursue. Funny thing is, I am a fearless 23 year old with a lot of life ahead of her. The other funny thing, all of that life ahead of me leaves me feeling like I have to constantly plan for everything! And well, I am a terrible planner! I have to have short term goals because if I have too much time to think about all of the possibilities, I began to put a lot of pressure on myself to perform which creates doubt about my abilities, which results in me freaking out and backing out of a long term plan...

So the point of all of this is to say, I have always wanted to run for a state beauty pageant do this thing...I was so close to it and for the last 7 years, I've considered it, called, did the interview, got this out of the world confidence, and then backed out at the last minute...It freaks me out to be on stage in front of thousands of people. Showing off my body, being judged for my beauty is nerve wrecking. I've always been a pretty girl but every year it was, 1) my hair wasn't pretty enough, 2) I didn't have enough support, 3) I didn't have the money, 4) I didn't have the body...on and on and on with the excuses.

So I made a move last year. I participated in a college level pageant, did so well, didn't win but gain a great deal of confidence in my ability to be in front of people and perform under pressure. I wanted to do the state level pageant but there was honestly too much going on at the time to participate. So I didn't. The director keeps in touch with me because she adores me and truly was in my corner, I'm pretty sure the thought of all of the money they'd raise didn't hurt, but that is another story. So anywayz, I got an email tonight saying that the Miss USA pageant would be in Vegas this year...Tears. I would so love to be there with all of my might! So I told my sweetie that I wanted to go for it this year. I mean, I age out in two years so it is now or never. As supportive as he is, he advised me to take on one project as a time. (Again, this is the overwhelming thing I do to myself pretty often). He told me instead of taking on the world, I should just take on one country at a time...Good one right?! As true as that is, it still sits with me that this is a dream I have had since I was a teenager! That is a long time to hold on to a dream. So I am sure it is something that is meant to happen...In God's time!

This is me in the pageant!

With that being said, take it easy Phenomenal Ladies and have a fabulous and blessed week!

No Limits Update: Number 1; Crossed off #3

Soooo I am 1 for 30 in my No Limits goals. Today, we went to Home Depot and got our gardening tools so that we could grow a garden...right on the balcony! We got tomatoes, onions, green bell peppers, and strawberries!

It feels great to begin working toward gaining a new skill. Here is a pic of my strawberry patch!!!

I'm so geeks! Do any of you Phenomenal Ladies garden? If so, what do you have in your pots? If not, what do you wish you could grow???
----------------------------------------------------------------------
I hope everyone had a great weekend! I did! I was treated with a new pair of shoes-that I thought I already had-however discovered that I didn't! My friend sent me a picture of her fab new shoes and I fell in love (thinking they were in my collection already). I was sadly mistaken and my sweetie went and got them for me!

Check them out!

That's all I've got for today! Have a great week!

Product Praise!!!! : Apple Cider Vinegar

I am not sure how many of you have heard this on YouTube but apple cider vinegar is the bomb...I watch YouTube enough to be aware of it but I never had the idea to try it until I got it in a goody bag. Even then, it sat under the bathroom counter until this past week. My lovely curly friend mentioned to me in passing that she had tried it as her last rinse and it made her hair feel great and her twist outs weren't frizzy when she used it. So the next day, I decided to try it for myself.

-Let me just say, I'm not one to jump on any product band wagon. I am an equal opportunity product junkie-

So on Tuesday, I co-washed my hair using only my Herbal Essence Totally Twisted (I will do a product review about this later!) After I rinsed my hair, finger detangled a bit, I put some conditioner in my hair and I finger detangled some more...I did my shower ritual and rinsed my hair. Following this, I sprayed the apple cider vinegar all over my hair and focused on the ends. It felt pretty good when I sprayed it, I felt my hair just separate and define...I let it sit for about two minutes and rinsed it out with cold water-you have to know one thing about me, I am not a cold water rinser-luke warm is as cold as it gets. I tried it though. I could a difference immediately. My curls were defined and that frizz I always fuss about, well there was none. No frizz. None at all...So serious!

So the word on the street is that apple cider vinegar closes the cuticle. This helps define your curls and gives your hair a more defined look over all. My hair looks shinier as well.

I promise I will post pictures. I've been having some darn phone issues and the one I have right now doesn't have a great picture quality! But I don't plan to give this stuff up anytime soon!

Have you used it before? What are your thoughts about apple cider vinegar?

Write It Down, Make It Happen Campaign

This is a really quick post about something big that is going on this year. One of my favorite Youtubers, BronzeGoddess, is starting a campaign called "Write it Down, Make it Happen" for 2012. It originated from the actual book titled "Write it Down, Make it Happen." I have not read the book yet but I plan to this year. I just wanted to spread the word and say, if you are a believer, join the movement. I believe that God will grant us the desires of our heart. If you are expecting a blessing this year, ask God, for those who ask shall receive. Now don't get crazy and make this Santa Claus Christmas wishlist but you know what God has granted you so far and if you know Him, you know He will give you all that you ask for, more abundantly, according to the power that works in you...So if you expect greatness out of this year, make you vision plain by meditating on God's word, letting Him guide you, and writing it down and making it happen. Watch This Video for more information about the Campaign. I am expecting greatness from this year. I am about to make my list right now. I will share it but for now I have to actually go and pray and meditate on somethings.

This goes along with the messages from my posts earlier this year Be About Your Business and Make 2012 Your Year. Check them out as you starting thinking about your expectations about the year.

If you feel compelled, share some of your expectations for the year! Keep this in mind as you go into this campaign: "Faith Without Works is Dead." Are you holding up your end of the deal???

-Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the LORD with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to him,
and he will make your paths straight

Something You Should Know...

I was awarded the Versatile Style Blog Award! Yea, I'm slow. I didn't know I was supposed to do something until I read Miss Enigma's Journal and saw that I was supposed to share 7 random things about myself! Thanks Ms. Destiny. Ok so I will get to getting...

- I am afraid to stay in the house by myself. While my sweetie is in the hospital for the next 3-5 days, I will be staying with his parents, 30 minutes away from my jobs...I really can't sleep if I am alone!
- I love dresses. Formal dresses especially. I jump at any occasion where I can get dolled up with a formal dress, some heels and some makeup! I don't wear makeup that often. I might wear it to formal occasions but that is it. I might be the only girl in my 20s in America that doesn't wear makeup on a daily, or even weekly-monthly basis! It's not that I don't like it, I just don't feel the need to add that into my dress routine in the morning. Oh well, Maybe in my 30s.
- I love babies but I love to send them back! I could be the next super nanny if I had that much time but I am too busy doing other things that don't make me as happy, like working sucky jobs...Maybe I need to quit them and become a fulltime nanny for a few years before having my own! I'm sure nannying would postpone me having any at all! Just saying
- I love to read. Books, not electronic books but the real hand held books, from the public library. I have a library card and I love to check out books. I especially like old classics as well as black authors. I started becoming obsessed with black literature after I realized that I didn't know that much about my own race...I'm making up for it
- I love to visit big cities however, I could never live in one. I always wanted to move to Maryland/DC/Virginia area until I started visiting on a regular basis. I am too autonomous to have to depend on public transportation and way to sociable to walk the busy streets without smiling or saying hello to strangers. I love southern hospitality and wouldn't trade it for anything!
- I can't swim. I've tried to learn however, I am lazy. I love the beach and pools but I just haven't caught on to this basic survival skill. I will make it my business to learn it this year (I think)
- I love blogging and reading people's blogs. I have a degree in psychology and the more I probe blogs and get into people's lives, the more I realize I chose the right major. I love studying people. I like to ask questions and get to know people's backgrounds. No one person ever perceives a situation the same so we all come out with different outcomes. I also love the fact that blogging is a way to connect with more people in the world...

Those are my seven things...I guess I better get to nominating!

Upside Down, Inside Out...All Things You Don't Think About!

This post is going to be extremely vague but extremely heart-filled. Two weeks ago, my Sweetie was getting fitted for his glasses. He began having eye problems last week. Two days ago, he had a follow-up visit with an ophthalmologist. 8 hours ago we received some life changing news...

My sweetie was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. When the doctor told us of the speculation on Monday, we went on about our day as if it was impossible he could have this. I mean, the faces on the websites and commercials don't show young black males. The statistics are 1 in 10,000 so why would this healthy, sweet, smart guy be one in the number? So we just brushed it off, prayed about it and didn't really stress. Today when the doctor told us, it came as a complete shock. I can't say that I am not upset but what worsens the situation is that he has had it for years and this is the first time that a doctor has taken the time to test him. I trust in God though and I know that there is a reason for this. My sweetie is a strong young man with a lot of life ahead of him. This is not a death sentence and as far as we know, he will live a normal life and life expectancy, he'll just be taking drugs. We can deal. God didn't bring us to this situation to leave us and I know that He will be watching and caring for my sweetie, His child, for as long as his life prevails.

Point of all of this...Don't let doctors short you on your health care. Keep up with your health and stay on top of what is going on with your body. Things could be going on and you would never know. Take care of yourselves and pay attention to your body. This is definitely a wake up call for me. God has His hands over this situation so I am not worried. He will provide and keep my sweetie protected. This is something I can be sure of...

So I may not be blogging for a couple of weeks. He has a hospital stay of about 5 days and I will be working, staying with his parents (I hate being alone) and tending to him. In the meantime, if you are a prayer warrior and have a network of prayer warriors, keep us in your prayers.

Until next time...

Product Review: Organic Root Stimulator Hair Mayonnaise

I have had ORS products since before I went natural but I don't think I ever used them. Two years ago I started shampooing with the ORS Uplifting Shampoo but that was it. Well three weeks ago, I used the ORS Hair Mayonnaise on my hair and it gave me so much body. I mean, my curls, which are normally stiff, came alive and I was in love! Before I sat under the dryer, I was bouncing around because my hair was bouncing. So what does it do?

- moisturizes and strengthens damaged hair (Although my hair is not damaged)
- provides incredible body and shine (that is does!)

It is made with egg protein, olive oil, and a blend of botanical extracts and herbs.

It doesn't smell that good but I can deal with it.

How to use it?
It says to apply, cover with a plastic cap and sit under a warm dryer for 15 minutes.

I did as directed and like I said, got awesome results. I have been using it as a weekly deep conditioner for a month now. I notice my hair is stronger and it seems to have a good balance of moisture and protein, since this product is pretty loaded!

Price:
The first jar I got was almost 10 dollars. However, I found it at Target and it was 5 dollars plus it had 60 percent more product than the normal size. And it came with an Anti Breakage Cream. I have yet to use that but I will let you know how that goes!

This is one of my staples in the regimen that I just recently got down packed!

Have you used any ORS products before? What is your take on them?

Potential Hauls for You!

Target has Herbal Essence products on sale 2 for 5! Of course I got some but I got two that I haven't used before. I got the Totally Twisted and the other purple bottle...Tousle Me Softly.

I figured since I like the Hello Hydration and Body Envy, these two probably won't disappoint. I will definitely give you ladies some feedback!

I also got some other goodies however I plan to do my first giveaway soon. The only thing is, I need some give away ideas...


So in the comment box below, please give me some ideas!!!

In the meantime, go to Target and rack up on some goodies. They have a store-wide sale going on until Saturday!
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Edited to add, Elf MakeUp and Cosmetics has a promotion going on...3 Eye Beauty Book Eyeshadows for 10 dollars...If you love makeup, visit This Site to claim your 10 dollar make up!

What's In My Pocket?

There's a Wocket in my pocket...Dr. Seuss was such a talented rhymer! But that has nothing to do with anything I am about to talk about.

Before the night ends, I promised that I would post about some major hauls I have had since the year started. So here goes my Jan-Feb haul!

The shoes...
I have gotten 8 pairs of shoes, each pair under 15 dollars.
I will start with the black peep toe (on the right of the cream shoe) and go clock-wise!
Black peep toe-Rack Room Buy one get one half off-I paid 4.50 for those shoes
Gray peep toe- 11.99 from Ross
Cream pump-9.99 from Rack Room
Sandals-1.99 from Rugged Warehouse
Grey pumps-7.00 from Rugged Warehouse
Black Sandals-1.99 from Rugged Warehouse
Black strappy peep toe-boyfriend got them from Rack Room by one get one half off-paid 6.00 for them!!

The tops...

The Gold one is from New York and Company-I blogged about that one in my Bad Hair Day Blog. Got it for 11.99 on clearance.

This shirt, got from Ross for 7.99

The dresses...

This print dress came from Rugged Warehouse-paid 5.00 for it

This pink dress came from Ross-paid 5.99

This simple black floor length dress with a ribbon that ties around the back hails from Ross-7.99
And my most favorite purchase yet. I am exciting because I enjoy wearing blazers and finding them for good prices. I got this black blazer with a pinstripe inside from Marshalls. Paid 24.99! That is the most expensive item in my haul but WELL WORTH IT!
The blazer...

Now I didn't do all the math however I can be sure that I got 8 pairs of shoes, 2 tops, dresses, a blazer for under 100 dollars! I am proud of myself that I've evolved into a conscious shopper that knows how to catch a deal! So while you are out and about doing your shopping, look for those sales-It is possible to look cute on a budget!

Until next time...
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Edited to add...
I clearly forgot about my cute hats that I got for 5.99 and 7.99. A brown floppy hat, a white/blue floppy hat, and a cute fedora-that pushes me over my 100 dollars however, it completes my Jan-Feb. haul! That is all!

Last Day of the Month

Today is the last day of February. Again, this year is flying by...I have been fighting a battle in my life and it is because I have chosen to be an honest person and those around me continue to remain untruthful, despite efforts to get the truth to surface. But, I won't complain. I will praise God for allowing me to be able to show my true character this month and for allowing this situation to push me on to the next level of being a better me.

Character is usually measured by the actions that you perform when people aren't looking. It is what you do when you think you are alone. When you choose to do the right thing, regardless of what others think, you are doing as God will do. Last week, before I went into work, I prayed and read my Bible. I let God lead me to what He felt was a message that needed to come across my vision that day. So, I fell upon Proverbs 16. I read the whole thing, not thinking that it would have a major role in what was about to go down at my job...

I won't go into too much detail but the incident took place that day. I had this very bad feeling and I had major anxiety behind it. Now, I suffered from anxiety the entire time I was in school and that is just not a life I want to live. So I called my mentor/spiritual advisor and talked to her about the situation. She told me not to lie. To tell the truth and make sure I did it soon. So I made up in my mind that I would. The next day, after a sleepless night filled with anxiety, I decided to do what was right. Come to find out, there were already questions floating around about the situation. It is funny how God works. The situation could have turned out completely different and I would have been in jeopardy of losing my job.

Lesson from this situation: The truth is always better than telling a lie. No matter how bad the situation may turn out, it is better to keep yourself safe by being honest rather than letting a situation play out and you become a bystander who suffers. This experience showed me that I am a strong person who stands for what is right. I never knew what I would do in a situation such as this but I always want to do the right thing. Doing the right thing will result in having enemies but as I said in the last post, if God is for you, no man can be against you. I trusted God to take care of this situation and even though it is not completely over, I know that I will come out victorious because I was honest and obedient.

Let God's ways lead your life. No matter how hard it may be to make the right decision, God will have an answer and He will provide for you. Don't let your life be lead by the lacksadasical ways of other people. Just because they don't live their lives in an honest way, a way God would approve, doesn't mean you have to conform to their way of life. If you are a believer, always believe in doing the right thing...It is not always fun but living among people who contradict themselves daily, you will stand out and God will show favor for living by His plan...

In the meantime, life is great. I'm still constantly learning about this thing called life. I hope that God continues to show me how to be a better person (I'm not that bad, but there is always room for improvement.)

What are some things about yourself that you REALLY love or REALLY want to change? Let's chat about them below!

To Hell With It

I've had a hell of a day. I am two words away from finishing my resignation letter but I know better. Fighting a war on your own is ridiculously hard. I mean, when no one is in your corner, it is truly you against the world. I have one thing to tell you, when God is in your corner, and you are doing the right thing, not one person on this Earth can defeat you. Not one...

Keep that in mind...In the meantime, this video has reminded me to keep laughing throughout everything. So if you had a day like I did, get a glass of wine and watch this Ratchet Girl Anthem

I don't care if you have seen it 100 times. Watch it 100 more if you have to! I know I will!

P.S. If you are a praying person, pray a special prayer for me. That God be with me as I go to war for what is right. I'd greatly appreciate it!

New Week, New Start

It is Monday and well, the end of February. Wow, I am slightly in shock at how fast this month has gone by. I just wanted to write a quick post to wish everyone a great week and a great start to March! I will do a February update on what has taken place in my life this month, on Wednesday. Can I just say that I've been tested and for once, I have proven myself to be the person I portray myself to be. An honest person of good character and morals. The story behind it is coming soon! I also have a couple of hauls to report on. Until then,

Have a great week!!!

My New Hair Regimen

As I am fairly new at this natural thing, I think I have a routine regimen going-at least for the winter...I straightened my hair last Friday and missed my curls like crazy...Plus, I really didn't straighten it that well considering I was going to do an updo. Before I straightened my hair, I did a deep conditioning treatment with Organic Root Stimulator Mayonnaise. I sat under the dryer for 15 minutes, washed it out with warm water and continued on to styling. I used Ion's Heat Protectant on my hair. I like it, it provides shine. All that jazz...

So on to this regimen. I washed my hair with a clarifying shampoo. It was Organic Root Stimulator Uplifting Shampoo. A lot of cleansing went on. It is very invigorating too. I love that shampoo but I don't use it too often because it does have a lot of mint in it which means that it will dry my hair out if I use it too often. So I washed it with that. Got it all squeaky clean, then put the ORS Mayonnaise on my hair and continued my shower ritual. I rinsed that out. Let my hair hang without putting a towel on it. Then I put my Herbal Essence Hello Hydration on and massaged it in. I used caster oil to seal my hair. It was my first time using castor oil. Can I just say that my hair has stayed moisturized the entire week? I mean, I haven't had to re-rinse it like I usually do. I just do a light spritz of water and Profectiv Mega Growth Oil and put a little conditioner in. I put the Caster oil around my edges in the front and I keep it moving. I've never maintained a wash-n-go this long. I got it now...

So like I said, this is now my regimen. It sucks because I am pretty sure that my hair is going to change with the season so I am going to have to try this all over again in about 2 months. I am super excited though to finally not have to re-wet my hair every other day! I think it now has a good balance of moisture and protein and it is cooperating with me!!!! #Win!



Do you have a solid regimen going for your hair? If so, what are your staple products?

Happy Hump Day!

Oh yes, today is Wednesday and for me, that means two more days of work...Oh yes!

Today is also National Margarita Day and for me that means, after I get off work and study a little, I will be taking the tequila and the margarita mix to work...With a seriousness!

Did you know it was National Margarita Day????
What is your drink of choice?


That is all!! Happy Hump Day!

Let It Snow!!!

I love Boys to Men! Because of them, they got me expecting snow during the winter every single year. Since we in NC have been having this crazy warm weather for the winter, I was almost sure that I would not get a chance to see the snow fall this year! Well, just like all things, God had another plan! This morning when I woke up I had a weather alert on my phone. After a crazy tornado rampage in August, I get really anxious when I see my Weather Channel icon blinking on my phone. This morning I checked it and it said that there was a Winter Weather alert. Happy me started dancing and singing around the apartment in excitement because, I love the snow!

I didn't know when it would start but me and my girls went out to lunch and looked around at a local retail store before we gave up on being out in the ridiculous rain. I came back home with one friend and we sat around talking about the old days! We talked for about two or three hours when I looked outside and it was snowing. HARD! I was excited. She wasn't...She had to drive back in that snow. Lucky for her, she has a cute little Jeep that will get her home safely!

I am so excited to see the snow and I hope we are blessed to get one or two more before the winter season is over! I hate the cold but I love when it snows, it makes all of the badness of the cold weather disappear! So I will sit back and watch the snow fall tonight! Thank God this is such a beautiful sight! (We have mega delays tomorrow, I like that too!)

So this is a great end to the weekend!! I hope the weekend went great for all of you!
Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!

I Show Up to Work Everyday. Now Hire Me!

What does your resume say about you?

In an attempt to update my resume, I was trying to figure out how to word my duties for the job I've been at since December. I am usually good at this but I've been out of the game for a little while and I fell off of my resume skills. So while we were out at Panera, having a "working date" I decided to ask my S.O if a phrase sounded ok. It went something like this "I assisted the manager with ----" I was excited about my phrase and about my duties since I am "assisting the manager" but he quickly shot that down when he said "Oh so you are somebody's B*&$#?" Excuse me? -neck roll and all- I know you didn't just call me what I think you did! My blood pressure started rising. I was getting angry until he said "All I am saying is, you are telling a potential employer that you do someone else's work for work." -Oh that's what I thought-(neck roll again)

So that got me thinking, when you are doing your resume, do your list of duties reflect what you do or what you do for someone else? Do your duties go above and beyond what your job title is?

That is what he meant when he asked me that question. So I revamped it to say what I do, not in reference to the manager but what I do. I knew this already but Blount Bobby had to be rude and remind me again that I don't just go to work everyday and do my job, I go above and beyond my duties and that is what needs to stand out on my resume, not what I do for others. Of course as employees we help the managers, I mean, that is basically a non-manager job, helping the manager meet a certain goal. But I will leave you with this, if the manager was not there, how would you function? Would everything fall apart or would you be the one to hold it all together? If your answer is yes, you'd be someone next in line for a promotion...I'm just saying!

So don't go to work everyday to just do your job. I know it is hard out there but I can assure you that if you are going above and beyond, it won't go unnoticed for too long. And always pray about it. Now if you have stubborn employers who make your life hard, that is a different story. But if you work in an environment where you can show the best you and be rewarded, go for it! It won't hurt especially if you happen to be looking for other jobs. Everyone takes notice at what you do, even if you don't see them looking. If you have a job that you don't plan to leave, this is not for you. But if you are young, or just starting out, putting your best foot forward at all times will get you further than you think AND faster than you think. Trust me, I know!

Sidenote-I did my hair last night. It turned out pretty cute. I ended up having to do an updo because I knew it would sweat out but it was nice and elegant after all. I resorted to YouTube and found a lady named "Lizbeth" who walked me through styling my hair! Whew, I dodged that one!
I will post pictures on Monday. Ours weren't ready before we left! -Sad face-
Have a great Saturday!

Rant: Fuming Mad on a Friday!!!!!

As great of a week as it has been, of course I had to have a moment where it was all thrown out the window for a few minutes. Life sometimes throws obstacles in your way to make you SOOOOOOOOO mad. Well, maybe not you, but definitely me. So I will tell you why I am mad...

Today I had to work. I was all joyful the entire day because my S.O got us tickets to the Barrista's ball, which is tonight mind you, and I LOVE to be dolled up. So he got the tickets and the next day I called the place I usually go to when I want to get my hair straightened and trimmed. So I called the place early Wednesday morning and made an appointment for today, Friday at 3:00 since I didn't get off until 2:30 and the latest the took appointments was 3:00pm. So after I rushed to leave work after they attempted to keep me there forever, I drove on to the OTHER side of town to make this appointment. After two phone calls, a missed exit and some high strung emotions, I finally made it. I jumped out of the car, imagined what I would look like after I left, and that calmed me down. I thought about how healthy and shiny it would be and how my ends would get a trim. Yes, I was going to be F-L-Y!

I get into the salon and check in. The receptionist asks for my name. I give it to her. I sign the check in sheet. She asks again. I say it again. Then she says the worst freaking thing you can say to a diva when she needs a hair do..."We don't have an appointment for you." Excuse me? What the hell do you mean you don't have an appointment? "The girl didn't schedule an appointment for you." Oh so you mean I don't have an appointment? I can't get my hair done????? Oh HELL NAW! I stomped out, fuming and in tears. I called my S.O and of course he had to calm me down. (I was secretly hoping he'd tell me to go get a new dress, to make me feel better but that didn't happen!) So he suggested I do my own hair. I hate taking this gamble because it is hit or miss when I straighten my own hair. He consoled me and said that I do a good job. It is HIS JOB to say that!!!! Ugh. So I mean, I guess I will give it a try. It is not like the idiot female who was supposed to take my appointment gave me any choice. I'm still mad but I am going to be fly tonight and I can't wait! I will try to take pictures but it is not a guarantee.

I hate hair salons but now, I hate them even more. I really need to learn how to do my own hair for real!

I am off to do this wig of mine now. I hope all of you have a great Friday and a great weekend! I am going to call this place first thing Monday morning and act up! Actually, I am going to make a visit!

Ugh!

It's Friday!!!

This past week has been great! Interesting and full of surprises. I won't complain. I will just share that God is just doing some amazing things in my life! He just keeps showing up and showing out and I am loving it! So this week I had a very bad day at one of my jobs. I mean, so much that I asked God to please bless me to be out of the within 6 months. It became an afterthought because well, I need the money right now so I am grateful to have a job, or two. Throughout the week, I really was contemplating getting another part time job but again, it became an afterthought.

Well, I wrote about my great news back in January where I said I was being trained as a manager for one favorite job! Well, yesterday I found out that there was an opening for a manager at another site and well, of course I am applying for it. I thought about letting my coworker go for it alone since she had already been passed up for the sub-manager training but then I started thinking and realized I wanted the opportunity as well. It was a good thing I didn't tell her I would be applying. She went behind my back and tried to say I was not qualified to be trained as a sub-manager because I had only been there a month. But whatever! So after talking with the S.O as well as the manager who hired me, they both encouraged me to express my interest in the position. My manager felt confident that I could do the job so if she thought so, I guess I am!

I am feeling so great right now. I asked God for His guidance and I prayed a prayer that simply said, "If it is in Your will, let it be done." Simple as that. I am putting in the work and praying that this lines up with His will and I know that whatever the outcome, it will be for the best. I will say though, the best part about it is the pay raise oh and the manager title. I am 23 and about to be a manager...23! That will do wonders for my career from here on out. There are about 2 other managers leaving as well so if this position isn't for me, I have 2 other chances to make it happen!

This has been the highlight of my week. God is doing some things in my life that I never thought imaginable. The funny thing is, as soon as all of this happened, I remembered the job before this and realized, there never would have been an opportunity to move ahead. God does everything for a reason and I am really getting on board with His will!

So, happy Friday to all and tell me about your week! What were some highs and lows of your week?

Hair Update: 16 Months Post Relaxer

So I am slightly obsessed with my hair. I am also a little length conscious because this is the longest I have ever been able to retain length and I am excited to say the least. So I am going to do a quick length check. Let me just say my hair is extremely curly. Kinky and curly but more curly than kinky. So here goes. I measured a piece of hair and it was 7 inches long!!! That is great because my hair just might be doing some serious growing! WHoooooooHooooo!

Sidenote-sorry for the poor quality. I took them on my webcam which is built in on my laptop. My camera is out of commission and my S.O won't let me get a new one just yet!