Lamb: Look up ‘Eli Navarro’; there’s gotta be something outstanding we can book him on.
Weevil: Oh, if I did it, it’s outstanding!
Veronica Mars Noteable Quoteables.
Re-evaluating
Three things have happened in the last few weeks that have made me re-evaluate bad habits (prioritizing and procrastination):
- Atti wrote an open letter and placed it in my inbox recently. It reminded me that I’m two steps away from insane, 95% of the, time from everything that I don’t talk about. She also asked me if I was writing and I told the truth, I haven’t been, for a while.
- I returned unread books to the library for the third time in the past few months.
- My younger sister was scolded for not taking her studies seriously. Private school isn’t cheap, and we don’t play bad grades.
You might be wondering how these things are even remotely connected? They’re not, really, but they’re important in their own right. See, after claiming womanhood and realizing I wasn’t half as prepared for the battle as I thought I would be, (and it’s probably because I prepare poorly) I realized that my habits don’t match the results I seek. You see, I have this bad habit of putting things off. When your mind flits from one thing to another very fleetingly you tend to learn that prioritizing isn’t your forte, and procrastination is a well sharpened tool in your utility belt.
The first thing on that list reminded me of the importance of relationships. If there’s one thing that shouldn’t be left on the back burner it’s the important people in your life, and how you connect with them. You might notice when you return to the stove, that the contents of the pot have congealed and soured, and it’s much harder to clean at that point. I’ve taken the, “They’re not thinking about me, I’ll talk to them later.” attitude with most soured relationships, when in reality it’s the other way around, as well. Communication is a two-way street, and I don’t blame anyone for putting the lid on a pot I long ago left unattended. Which is why I need to put my loved ones first, because what’s the point of this thing called life if I’ve alienated the ones I can share it with?
Two: I’m tired of sneaking past the librarian in hopes of avoiding a conversation about the book I didn’t read this go ’round. There’s an expectation I’m not meeting and it kills me. “No ma’am, I’ve put off my favorite hobby once again for other things, so I can’t tell you what I thought of the series of short stories you recommended.” If you can’t find time for the things you love, well then you just might be wasting your time, and I’m wasting my time. Someone recently told me I work too much; never in my 23 years of life had I ever heard that… Ever. Then again, never in my 23 years of life had that ever applied, until now. Plainly put, prioritizing what’s important will lead to healthy developments in life. Reading is one of my priorities, making better connections with my loved ones is another (as mentioned above). Furthermore, it’s cathartic, and staying sane is high on my list of priorities.
Lastly: My little sister is a gift of sorts, she was unexpected. We all thought my parents were finished and BOOM, here comes babygirl. Needless to say, the baby gets the best of all worlds, but she’s bad at prioritizing. Her schoolwork and grades are evidence of such. Now I think my sister is a very bright young lady, she just needs a little push and a different standard. I can’t hold her to my standard, she has to learn her own and make it happen. Which brings me to my last point, if I prioritize right I’ll meet my own standards. I can’t expect her to listen to me when I say, “Do better.” If I can’t even do that myself, right? You have to lead by example, in all aspects of life.
Lord knows I’m trying.
Wake up!
I’m in full support of morning being the best time of the day, and I’m no morning person (at all). Although I’d much rather hide under the covers some mornings, it’s important to witness sunrises and to be prepared for the day. Why? Well, if you’re like me and you work irregular hours, this keeps you on a daily schedule consistent with the rest of the world.
When I was in school I often found that, whenever I had to get important things done I didn’t have time. I started my days entirely too late and my excuse was, “Well I stay up late and go to class all afternoon, Why can’t I sleep in?” because, no one else is sleeping in Brittanie. At least, not the people getting things done! It’s a tough lesson to learn when shifting into adult hood but it’s a great one. I feel great in the mornings, and even though I slack on breakfast (New Years Resolution) I still get up, shower, and get dressed. It makes me feel great, and it’ll make you feel great too; just try it.
You should always be prepared for the day, you never know when something might come up and you have to jet out of the door!
New Things: Nail Challenge? & SensatioNail Review
I’m not sure whether or not this is exactly a challenge but I know for sure that I’m tired of dry, brittle, breaking nails… and polish that doesn’t last over a week. I’m very low maintenance, I hardly ever get professional manicures because it’s just too much extra time added to my schedule, but I digress. I was watching a YouTube video the other day (AllThatGlitters21) and thought I ought to finally try this gel process. I’d read about it once before on a friends blog (findingthespacebetween) and didn’t pursue it until now. When first looking at my options, I decided I wanted to avoid a salon setting at all costs. I’ve turned in to a DIY girl truthfully so I only really go for the occasional pedicure. This meant that the SensatioNail Gel Nail Kit was perfect for what I needed. It comes equipped with everything you need for an easy DIY gel manicure including:
- Gel Cleanser
- Gel Primer
- Gel Base & Top Coat
- Color Gel Polish (Start Kit comes in Raspberry Wine or Scarlet Red)
- Lint-free wipes
- Double-sided nail buffer
- Bamboo manicure stick
- Pro 3060 LED Lamp
The starter kit costs $50 bucks, but that a small price to pay for what could essentially give you 10 manicures (the box suggests) that would normally be $30 or more per salon visit. Fifty bucks one time, or thirty bucks (or more dependent on location) regularly over a year? Yeah, I’m not a rocket scientist but that sounds like a great deal to me. Even when you run out of equipment you can get a refill pack for nineteen bucks, and the other nail polish colors are ten dollars each. I’ll monitor how much it will run me over the next few months just to check my investment.
In any case, I got the starter kit in Raspberry Wine, and bought two additional colors: Taupe Tulips and Blue Yonder. The Taupe looks like it’s going to be my favorite, it’s the perfect neutral color for my nails; something I can wear every day in every setting.
Natural Hair QOTD: Dryness & Detangling Woes
Hey Brittanie,
I have had natural year for a year now, but have no clue as to what regime I should follow to take good care of my hair. can you please tell me how to take care of it. Right now it needs to be de-tangled and its very dry.
- Anonymous
Hello!
First I’d like to say that there isn’t one set of rules for caring for your natural hair. Everyone’s regimen will be different, and tailored to what their hair needs. That said, I can address how to detangle and dryness. Because our strands are coily, it’s harder for natural oils to run down the shaft of our hair, leaving us open to dry season. Since it is still winter this one of the worst times for natural women who need help maintaining moisture. There are a few daily habits you can change, as well as products you can introduce into your regimen.
First, are you sleeping on cotton? If so, stop. I love cotton pillows cases (they’re soft and fluffy!) but it’s essential to try satin or silk pillowcases for your hair (and face as well). The silky texture is a lot less harsh on your tresses and doesn’t remove as much moisture as cotton fibers. Next, bonnets and satin scarfs are your friend as well when tying down your hair at night (they operate for the same function as the pillow cases). To introduce a good moisture balance in you hair, I recommend deep conditioning once a week, I use Aubrey Organics GPB as my deep conditioner. For daily moisture I recommend some type of cream mix until the harsh weather breaks. If you want something pre-made and off of the shelf, my recommendation is Shea Moisture’s Curl Enhancing Smoothie. If you’re into making your own products, then I recommend creating a mix of shea butter with your favorite essential oils into a nice cream for your hair. Always remember to seal, that’s the most important part. Once you moisturize your hair, you have to make sure it STAYS moisturized. A good oil (I use Proclaim Natural 7 Oils) will help seal your hair shaft.
Thanks for writing and I hope this helps!
-Brittanie
Hobby Haul: Needles & Yarn!
While studying abroad in London I had the privilege of learning how to knit. What started as a fun bonding project with my flat mates turned into a full-blown hobby! Knitting is very relaxing and helped with my writing (of the poetry variety). It gave me a space to think, without the added headache of running up the water bill, (my shower was my original thoughtful spot). That said, I went to a new Hobby Lobby in my area a few days ago to get a break from Michaels. I will say, Michaels’ craft section is heftier than Hobby Lobby’s but I managed to walk away with a few things.
Natural #QOTD
Hi Britttanie,
Your hair is beautiful and healthy. What products did you use in the beginning of your natural journey to help with its health and growth.
Thank you.
Julie
Hi Julie!
Thank you for your kind words. I must admit that the beginning of my natural journey was turbulent. I didn’t have a clue what I was doing because, I didn’t do much research. Big mistake, but we live and learn from these things!
My first crash course in caring for my teeny-weeny afro was in moisturizing my hair. My problem was learning that less is more, which I wasn’t accustomed to in caring for my relaxed hair. Also, with short hair I had to keep in mind that I have a recurring acne problem, so certain hair products just didn’t mix with my active lifestyle. Heavy products + middle of the summer = sweat and clogged pores (Yikes!). So I opted for something light; I washed and conditioned with Yes to Carrots products, and used a dab of Kinky Curly’s Knot Today as a leave in. When the weather begins to turn as seasons change I recommend Cantu Shea Butter Leave-In Conditioning Repair Cream, for a thicker more protective feel. Also, Proclaim’s Natural 7 Oil (Olive or Essential) is a great seal for any time of the year.
Thank you for writing, I hope this helps.
Brittanie
A Lesson on Love
I woke up and decided I was going to get some things off of my chest about love and relationships because it felt right. Today, the sun is shining and my father is 47. My mother wrote him a heartfelt note in a card and my stomach fluttered; I love what they share. Even more, I love that I’m a product of it.
But that’s not the point of this post. The point of this post is to tell myself this, “You can’t do the same things and expect different results.” I think Einstein said that’s the definition of insanity, or something. Yes, the cliché rings true because a person can be ready for all the world has to offer but still trip up on love because they knew what it took to get that old feeling and try to repeat the process. It’s not about the old feeling, there’s a reason that didn’t work. We’re trying to work towards new feelings with better outcomes, right? Evidently, I missed the memo. I got scolded in the car while complaining about a man (boy?) and my mother simply ended with, “What did you expect? You say you want these things (marriage, companionship, kids…), but you’re not setting yourself up to receive them.” Needless to say, I got tight-lipped and we spent the rest of the ride in silence while I contemplated all the reasons I was angry, the main one being, she was right. (She usually is, but this time it felt different.)
No matter how much trust, respect, care, or love you have for someone you must have a mutual knowledge of where those things will take you. In my case, things were turbulent with no purpose. It was like riding a bullet train with no destination, so when it came to a screeching halt, I was disoriented and lost. The worst part is, I’d finally unpacked my bags from before, so I was ready for something new, and it felt great having someone new in my life, but I made the same mistakes. Now I’m at the train station, by myself, with a suitcase I don’t even like. Baggage works that way, there’s the good stuff you want to carry around and share, and the bad stuff you feel burdened by. And that’s what happens when you don’t wise up and change your dating habits, that ugly suitcase will walk right out of your closet to collect your hurt, your bitter, and all those other feelings that came with previous failed prospects. Don’t get me wrong, in every negative there’s a positive and a lesson. But what good is learning the same lesson if you never apply it? You have to graduate sometime. That’s what my mom was trying to say in the car that day, and she has 21 years of marriage to prove it.
Hair Rules!
Just dropping a link to an interview that I did with Black Girl with Long Hair about my afro and all it entails, hope you enjoy it!
52 Pick Up: With Books
This year I began a reading challenge because I read a lot, and what would a New Years Resolution list be if I didn’t add anything book related? The challenge is to read a book a week, for a total of 52 books for the year. Now, I’ve beaten this record many times over in my day but, I’ve found that since I’ve been out of school I haven’t made personal time for myself and the library (book store, nook, etc.) that I usually have. So I decided to make this resolution for myself, and let me tell you, it has started with a bang! I’m currently finishing book five and starting book six later in the day, so I’m right on track. Here’s my list so far:
- The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo – Stieg Larsson
- The Hunger Games – Suzanne Collins
- Catching Fire – Suzanne Collins
- MockingJay – Suzanne Collins
- The Boy In The Striped Pajamas – John Boyne
- The Girl Who Played With Fire – Stieg Larsson
- Dark Prophecy – Anthony E. Zuiker
I’ve argued with myself over #5 because the book is so short, I felt I should have added another one to last week, but coming off of the Hunger Games binge (I couldn’t resist!) I felt like it could get a pass. In other news, I’m excited to finish the Millennium Series, and have been wanting to crack open the sequel to Level 26 for a few months now. I always find myself ready to read it when I’m not able to look at the interactive videos and it’s so inconvenient! I’ll also have other challenges cut out for me, such as the ‘A Song of Ice & Fire’ series by George R. R. Martin, because those books are just daunting. I’ll keep this post as a running list for the rest of the 52 that I read this year, let me know what’s on your bookshelf in 2012!
