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Thursday, April 30, 2009

THE GREEN GOODNESS OF.... KALE!




Hi Beautifuls!

This is one of my favorite green smoothies, of the moment. I know to some of you, it may look pretty ominous. I've been there so I do understand. But trust me when I say it is delicious. This is one of the recipes that I featured in a recent post. It hales from The Raw Mocha Angel's blog and is quite delish!

One of it's key ingredients, the one that gives it it's green glow =), is kale. The recipe calls for 3 kale leaves but I wanted more of a punch and added a fourth one. Still delicious. I want to provide you a little information on this green goodies nutritional benefits to our bodies.

Kale is an excellent source of vitamins B6 (lowers your risk of stroke, heart disease, cancer, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's disease, and many degenerative diseases) and C (antioxidant,immune system), carotenes, and manganese. It is also a very good source of B1, B2, and E (antioxidant, prevents hair loss and a whole lot of other good stuff). It is rich in calcium, lutein, iron and Vitamins A,C and K also. And is also a great source of fiber, iron, and copper.

The naturally rich sulfur content of kale deserves a bit more discussion. Science has discovered that sulforaphane, helps boost the body's detoxification enzymes, possibly altering gene expression. This in turn is believed to help clear carcinogenic substances in a timely manner. Sulforaphane is formed when cruciferous (meaning in the mustard family) vegetables like kale are chopped or chewed. This somehow triggers the liver to produce enzymes that detoxify cancer causing chemicals, of which we are all exposed to on a daily basis.

Post Title THE GREEN GOODNESS OF.... KALE!

OOH.. I CAN'T WAIT!!

Hi Beautifuls!

How are you on this lovely Thursday? I hope well. Thanks for the comments on yesterday’s post. I wrote that a week or so ago when I was really frustrated about some things so I really needed to vent. I appreciate your comments. Today’s post is totally lighter given upcoming events.

You see, I’m a geek at heart. (At least, as far as movies are concerned.) I enjoy all types of movies…dramas, comedies, foreign films, action, horror/thrillers (Uh, in small doses.) But my heart loves sci-fi, fantasy & some anime’. My love for these genres go back to my childhood when I’d stay up late watching episodes of “Lost in Space”, “Night Gallery”, “Star Trek” and movies (the original black-n-whites) like, “The Day the Earth Stood Still”, “Them”, “War of the Worlds” or “The Day of the Triffids” to name a few. I’ve been hooked since before puberty.




Which leads me to say that I am so hyped about “Wolverine: X-Men Origins”. I cannot wait to see Hugh Jackman rip it up on screen as Wolverine. Not only him but the characters Gambit, Wraith, Silverfox and more. Please believe. I will be up in the theatre this Friday. Yes indeed. But this isn’t the end. “Star Trek” is coming out next week. Now, I’m not a deep Trekkie but I’ve followed Star Trek since William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy, & foxy Nichelle Nichols graced our television screen in the groundbreaking original series.





Then “Terminator Salvation” is coming out later this month. Whoa!! And guess what popular rapper/actor will be in it? (With his fine self.) Common! Hello-o. Looks like I’ll be in the dark all month long.




Okay.. Maybe I am a geek. But I sure as hell am a fly one! Lol. =)
Anyhoo… I just had to express my excitement about these films.
What movies are you all fired up to see? .....

Post Title OOH.. I CAN'T WAIT!!

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

IS BLOOD REALLY THICKER THAN WATER?...


Good Morning Lovelies,

Today I want to talk about family. More directly, how do you deal with a not so positive family and keep a positive mindset. I bring this up because I, like most people, have a family with some disfunctionality. And I must admit, it goes beyond the immediate. I actually have traced it back to my grandparents. Trust me. This is far enough. I see how something tragic & painful from your childhood can affect EVERY aspect of your life. From sibling to spousal relationships..to friendships..to daily social interaction. Even down to how you raise your children. Have you considered this?... I have. In fact, I've considered it a lot seeing as I don't want to repeat any of the same negatives in my life and the raising of my child.





Which brings me to the gist of this post. My question is how do you handle any negatives that may come from your family? And by "negatives" I mean habits, verbal, emotional, (d.) all of the above and then more. Do you confront it full-blast...lovingly...timidly or not at all? Do you or have you totally separated yourself from your family? Do you spend time w/them in small infrequent doses, or suck it up, turn a blind eye & hang w/them all the time because they're still family?...




I ask these questions because I don't believe in surrounding myself with negative people or in a negative environment. Not at this point in my life. It's just not healthy. Regardless of who it is. No, I can't see myself completely cutting off from family (unless it was a really dangerous situation) but I will back away & do them in doses, if necessary. Don't get me wrong. I love my fam dearly, but if I feel like my (or even more so, my daughter's) emotional, mental and/or spiritual well-being is at stake of being tampered with, drained, or dare I say, "infected" by any negative habits, thought patterns, words or deeds coming from family then blood relation or not, our time around family will be limited. Does this make sense?...

So tell me your thoughts on this...


**Please note that this post was written during a family drama occurrence.**

Post Title IS BLOOD REALLY THICKER THAN WATER?...

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

TUESDAY'S TRESSES

Hi Beautiful Ones!

I hope that your day is going well. I've decided to designate Tuesday's to hair & everything hair related. I figure this will help motivate me to post pics more. My blogging organization is getting better, yes?..

Last Friday, I mentioned how lazy I've been w/my hair. I had been wearing it in a bun during the week and then a puff during the weekend. So I decided to post pics of both. Oh, how I long to do something different but my mental energy is more focused on my dietary habits & getting my azz back in shape! But I digress....

le photos.....



















Now, if you didn't notice, my hairline is leaving alot to be desired (from me & my tights puffs/buns), so over the weekend I wore....

two-strand twists








I'm making sure I keep my hairline moist and stress-free!






I was rather proud of the outcome. So until whenever, my routine will be two-strand twists during the weekend after I wash/deep condition, and twist-outs during the week. I will work on getting a photo of my twist-out.

Btw, I used Qhemet's Olive & Honey Hydrating Balm & Sheamoisture (which you usually can find at your local beauty supply store) to twist. Topped it w/Aubrey Organics B5 gel. And sealed my ends with Coconut Oil.

What's your regimen like right now?.....

Post Title TUESDAY'S TRESSES

Monday, April 27, 2009

GOOD NEWS MONDAY!!


Good Morning Beautifuls!

Did you notice how gorgeous you are?.. Did you greet yourself this morning with a smile full of love? Perhaps a hug...I sure hope so. You're so worth it!

Our good news comes out of the ATL on today. WXIA(11Alive), a local television station began "Random Acts of Kindness" awhile ago. This is how it goes....

How Does This Work? 11Alive News Today is waking people up all over Metro Atlanta with a random act of kindness. Maybe it's a free cup of coffee or paying for your parking for the day. When we did it, we gave out a card -- green, blue, orange, purple, or tan. Each card has a number on it.

Here's where you come in.

Take the card and pass it on. Do something nice for someone; if your neighbor is moving, carry a couple of boxes. If your co-worker needs a ride to work, clear some space in your backseat. Whatever it is you do, we want to know about it, and that's why we put numbers on each card.

If you have a card in your possession, use this form to see where the card has been and what random acts of kindness it's been a part of. We'd also love it if you would to tell us how you got it -- did someone offer you a good parking spot at the store? Help you fix your computer? Or was it as simple as your next-door neighbor taking out your trash? Whatever it was, tell us about it and help us track the cards we're giving out.

Now, we're not trying to be vicarious or anything, but we're curious as to how you passed the card on. If you've got some pictures or a little video you shot with your cell phone, we'd love to see either one. There's a photo gallery below where you can upload your pictures, and if you took some video, upload it.

Help 11Alive News Today make Metro Atlanta a little nicer for everyone. Because karma is good.

I love this idea. I think it is so sweet. Stuff like this can make a person's day.
What do you think? What's something good going on in your world?...
Btw, how was your weekend?...

**You can find the above image and others on explodingdog.com.**

Post Title GOOD NEWS MONDAY!!

Saturday, April 25, 2009

TWEET ME...IF YOU PLEASE


Hi Beautifuls!

I hope that you are having a wonderful weekend! It's a little hot in the "A". I believe our high is around 85. The sun is out full-blast. It's a beautiful day, however I must admit that I miss that cool breeze. I hope that the weather is lovely wherever you are. =)

I have a quick confession to make... I've been on Twitter for awhile now (shockingly since September) but honestly was not sure whether I would stay with it or give it up. It seemed a bit much to constantly type in random things. I suppose my concern was not fully being present in daily life if I continued with Twitter. However, I think I've figured out the best way to roll with it. Not quite sure I fully understand what I'm doing buuuuuut... if you're really interested in my daily goingon's and observations, follow me on Twitter.

Peace Out....
CO

Post Title TWEET ME...IF YOU PLEASE

Thursday, April 23, 2009

UMM UMM GOOD!!


Good Morning Beautifuls!

I hope that all is well in your world. I honestly have been struggling with myself as far as attaining my dietary goals of a 70 to 75% raw vegan diet. I've come to realize that my biggest battle is my thinking. I am not the most patient person in the world and on top of that, I can be a bit rigid in my thinking. For example, I want a Greenstar juicer and a Blendtec blender and feel like I need those appliances to successfully carry out the vision that I have for myself. However, I have to save funds to purchase those appliances. This requires time. Here's where my "rigidity" comes in... I struggle with feeling like I absolutely have to have those particular items to successfully begin this journey. Now note this: I have a blender and a personal blender/grinder. Yeah. So I've had to put myself in check and break out the items I have and put them to good use. And so far so good. When I get to the point where I can afford my Greenstar and Blendtec that will be wonderful. But until then, I'm gonna use what I have until I can.

Here's some delicious, healthy smoothies I've made so far:

The Green Smoothie from TheRawMochaAngel
2 oranges
2 bananas
3 collard leaves, de-stemmed
3/4 C water
If it's your first time attempting a "green" drink, you can use one collard leaf. You can also substitute a different green. I used kale in mine. Or you could use spinach.


Green Smoothie from IntheRaw
3 handfuls fresh baby spinach
1 C frozen mixed berries
1/4 inch fresh ginger, grated (yummy)
2 C water


Both of these recipes are very tasty. If you need to, you can add a natural sweetener like agave, stevia or honey to taste. Always use distilled or filtered water and organic fruits and vegetables.

personal tip: Instead of ice, I use frozen fruit. After my bananas ripen, I cut them up and put them in a ziploc bag. I'm careful to squeeze as much air out as possible and then I toss them in the freezer until I need them. It really helps to prep beforehand as much as possible. If I have any leftover smoothie, I put it in a mason jar and put it in the freezer or fridge.

Have you tried any delish and healthy smoothie recipes lately?...

Post Title UMM UMM GOOD!!

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

I'VE BEEN TAGGED: GET TO KNOW ME!!


Hi Beautifuls!

I was being straight-up lazy this week and was not gonna post today until I saw that the lovely Urbancurlz tagged me. Before I get into it, I just want to say ,"Hello!" and send smooches to my new subscribers and followers. Y'all keep me going. That being said, you may want to check the bottom of this post. Hopefully, I can get around to adding to my blogroll this weekend.


So here goes....

What's your current obsession?
getting a handle on incorporating more raw foods and smoothies into my diet

What's your must have fashion need?
a bright bag

What are you wearing right now?
white top w/cap sleeves, grey slacks, brown sling-backs, solid red satchel purse, silver braided hoops, and a silver, azul-beaded (Southwestern-stylish) cross. Topped w/a red trench. (my fav get-up for work)

What's your favorite food?
latin

What do you do for fun?
Hang out with my fly friends

What made today special?
My daughter said “I love you” when she got out of the car to get on the bus

What would you like to learn to do?
design kitchens/homes

What's the last thing you bought?
some marshmallow root, Vita-Blend tea, & Peace Tea from Mountain Rose herbs

What are you listening/watching right now?
V103 radio station

What's your favorite weather?
warm & sunny w/a slightly cool breeze

What's your one goal in life?
to be the woman God intended me to be

What do you think of the person that tagged you?
FAB-U-LOUS!!!

If you can have a house totally paid for, what would it look like?
It would be an eco-friendly, small,stylish & cozy 2 to 3 bedroom w/an open layout, a bangin’ kitchen, dark hardwood floors, a hellified closet and a couple of nice bathrooms. It would have a modern but warm eclectic feel to it. Oh, it would also have a back yard that could hold a nice organic garden.

What would you like to have in your hands right now?
A rack of clothes

If you can swap lives with anyone in the world for one day who would it be and why?
Michelle Obama! I really admire and respect her. She’s intelligent, classy, and stylish.

If you can go anywhere in the world for the next hour where would you go?
Belize

What language would you like to learn?
Espanol

What do you look for in a friend?
Respectful of all people, honest, and believes in expanding/improving themselves and enjoys culture, music, shopping and fun times.

Who do you want to meet in person?
President Obama

What's your favorite type of music?
R&B

What's your dream job?

Owner of a natural-health pavilion which would include an organic grocery store, yoga/pilates studio, offer health-related courses and services w/an organic café.

Do you admire anyone's style?
Keri Washington, Michelle Obama, Beyonce (only when not performing), Tracee Ellis Ross

Describe your personal style?
Classic w/a touch of fly or funk. If it helps, I enjoy shopping at the Limited, Banana Republic, Loehman’s, and especially small boutiques. Major department stores are cool, too.

What's your favorite t.v show?
This is a hard one.. Fringe, The Game, Heroes, Bones and when I can catch them What Not to Wear, Divine Design, House Hunters and Find Your Style to name a few. I know..I need to cut down.

What's your favorite ice cream flavor?
Oreo, yes sir.

What's your favorite makeup brand?
I like Iman and Mac, but honestly need to up my makeup game. I plan on getting a makeover soon.

What's your all time favorite perfume?
I don't wear perfume.

What's you fondest childhood memory?
Road trips

What would you do w/a major lottery winning?
Add my child to the list of enviable trust-fund babies. Buy the home I want and have it designed just how I like it. Take care of my mother’s home/bills. Travel to countries in Asia, Africa and South America. And of course, take some shopping trips to Italy, New York, & France. Start a philanthropic organization. And become a professional student. Lol.

Rules:
1.)Respond: answer the questions on your blog.
2.)Replace one question that you dislike with a question of your own invention, add one more question of your own.
3.)Tag eight other people


I’m tagging…

Fleurtzy (Textured Playground)
KCurly (Newly Natural)
Ingrid (Raw Epicurean)
Alicia (InstantVintage)
Gem (The GeminiLife)
Luvbenet (Luvbenet’s Coily World)
BlueNaturalMikey (Natural Obsession)
Laquita (AllNaptural)

Post Title I'VE BEEN TAGGED: GET TO KNOW ME!!

Monday, April 20, 2009

GOOD NEWS MONDAY!..CAFE OWNER DOES AWAY WITH PRICING SYSTEM


Good Morning Beautiful People!

I hope that you all had a wonderful weekend. Did you do something for you?.. I sure hope so cause you're worth it. =) Today our good news comes from www.only-positive-news.com.

Cafe owner Sam Lippert has a lot of faith in his customers. In order to help people through tight economic times, he has done away with a pricing system and simply asks people to pay what they want. He got the idea from his girlfriend from Bulgaria, who explained to him that it’s not an uncommon practice in her country.
And what if someone only wants to pay a quarter for a $10 meal?
As Lippert puts it: “Well, they have to look me in the eye and say that that’s what they think is fair. And, you know, that’s a big incentive. When someone’s at the counter and you say, you get to pay what you think is fair, very few people are going to take advantage of that situation.”
Tippert figures that his pricing system is actually an incentive for people to go out, even though their wallets are tight, because they are paying a fair price in exchange for their product. Their purchase seems reasonable.
And how has this been affecting sales?
“Things have picked up. My sales and customer count are up on a given day between 50 to 100 percent. And I’m starting to look at being able to bring some of my part-time people on full time and maybe being able to add a couple of new employees

I hope that you all have a wonderful day! And remember, if you have some good news please share with us.

Much Love,
CO

Post Title GOOD NEWS MONDAY!..CAFE OWNER DOES AWAY WITH PRICING SYSTEM

Friday, April 17, 2009

Cocktails and Flowers


Hi Beautifuls!

Just wanted to wish everyone a HAPPY FRIDAY AND WEEKEND!! I hope that you had a wonderful week. Mine started out a little rough but is all good now. It's funny how you can be feeling a certain way and then something comes around or happens that brings all things back into perspective. Don't worry, it's Friday. That's as far as I'm going today. I still have yet to post what I wrote so I'll just save it for next week. It's a little deep and I almost decided to trash it but I think I'll go ahead and put it out there on next week.


I'm still reading the book by Natalia Rose "Raw Food Life Force Energy". It's a pretty easy read. One of the things that she discusses in it is "food combining". "Food combining" refers to the combination of foods which are compatible with each other in terms of digestive chemistry. Food combining is a basic component of optimal nutrition because it allows the body to digest and utilize the nutrients in our foods to their full extent. She also mentions eating "light to heavy". You know how it's been said that breakfast should be our heaviest/biggest meal with each meal following getting smaller in size. Well, Natalia feels that it should be the opposite of this. Starting off the day with the lightest foods for breakfast and gradually increasing the density of the foods we eat so that the heaviest meal is dinner. I'm testing these two ideas out and will let you know how it goes.




just because I like it. flower cocktail ring


Now as far as my hair is concerned, I've been ultra lazy. Last week when I was off, I did a nice puff everyday. The products I used were minimal (at least for me). I used Oyin's Honey Hemp condish as the main leave-in and sprayed my puff w/Jane Carter's Revitalizing Leave-In. Nice results. I promise you & me, I will try to do better w/pictures and take some next time. I'm itching to try a bantu knot-out, Cherry Lola treatment and amla rinse. But after working on my taxes and healthy eating goals/plans/reading & research, I just have not been motivated. As a matter of fact my hair has been in a bun since Sunday and from the looks of it will be in this style for another week. Please believe, I want to switch it up but my energies are focused elsewhere right now. This self-professed product junkie hasn't even purchased anything hair related lately and I have a Curlmart giftcard (compliments of Newly Natural). You know I'm trippin'! lol!

Anyhoo, I hope that you all have a lovely weekend! My daughter made it a point to remind me that I said I would take her and a friend to Six Flags on tomorrow. So that's what I'll be doing this weekend. Fun stuff!

What about you?...

Post Title Cocktails and Flowers

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

HOW PRETTY!!

Just because I think they're pretty.....


Christian Louboutin's Pink Petal Sandal - retails for uhmmmm, slightly under a grand


...One day, my precious.....One day.....

Post Title HOW PRETTY!!

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

PUTTING YOURSELF FIRST

Hi Beautifuls!

I hope all is well with you. I was so gonna post about something else. It's been written and everything but saw that Philip McCluskey had a new video and had to share it. If you don't already know, let me to you that I love this dude. He is so positive and has such a peaceful vibe. I believe he's 100% raw (anyone,correct me if I'm wrong) which is further than I desire to go but he doesn't come across as dogmatic. I've noticed that in his videos he shares information that applies to every aspect of life. So even if you're not interested in a raw vegan lifestyle, you'll still get something good outta his sharing. If you want to check out his blog, you can find the link (Loving Raw) under my listing of Raw Vegan blogs in the right panel.

I had to post this because as a single mother, I can totally relate to this. Shoot! I'm sure those of you w/a spouse or significant other or whatever your situation might be can relate. I have to admit that sometimes this is easier said than done but it is a must.

Anyhoo Beautifuls! Be blessed and enjoy!


Post Title PUTTING YOURSELF FIRST

Monday, April 13, 2009

IT'S GOOD NEWS MONDAY!!!


Hi Beautifuls,

I hope that you all had a lovely weekend and a Happy Easter (for those who observe/celebrate it). As promised, today is Good News Monday and the following good news article was found on www.happynews.com.

Bread for the Journey was formed in 1988 in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Today, 21 years later, the organization has 20 volunteer chapters and is bringing healing and transformation to communities across North America through Neighborhood Philanthropy.

Bread for the Journey funds charities and projects that aim to: sustain cultural diversity, promote ecological conservation, improve the lives of women and children, develop the leadership of youth through the arts and civic engagement, and create simple systems to meet basic needs of the most vulnerable in their communities.

Bread for the Journey chapters have microgranted over three million dollars, every cent going to community-based projects built on the vision and assets of diverse communities to meet their own needs. The local chapters raise money in their own communities. Then, they give micro-grants to ordinary people – with extraordinary spirits – who have an idea to make their community a better place. These small grants, given to the right person at the right time, make a big impact in local communities.

Article from www.happynews.com


Remember, if you have some good, funny, positive and/or inspirational news, quote or personal experience please share.

Post Title IT'S GOOD NEWS MONDAY!!!

Monday, April 6, 2009

ALRIGHT

Hi Beautifuls!

I hope that all is well in your world. I am choosing to have a joyful outlook. Today is my Friday. (Yay me!) Also, my day of fasting. (Yay me, again!)

I know on last week I mentioned me skipping a few days of blogging here and there to work on me. Well, in more detail, I have to put my plan together. As the familiar quote by Alan Lakein goes, "Failing to plan is planning to fail". This really hit me while I was reading Earthmother's post on planning on her wonderful blog, In The Raw. You know how you can be aware of something.. even believe you know it already but it doesn't quite register with you until that right moment. Well, that post was my "right moment". While reading, it was then that I realized that I had to pull it together and actually plan to reach my personal goals for health (& hair). With that being said, I'll be off for Spring Break the next few days. Amidst mother-daughter time & Spring cleaning, I'll also focus on planning.

I'm already armed with a book by Natalia Rose, "Raw Food Life Force Energy", which includes a 21-day plan. It has been said that it takes 21 days to change, to break old habits, learn new ones and set new patterns. I'm willing to put this to the test. I'm already on week 2 of "no soda's". Yay me! I was an infamous diet soda drinker but so far I haven't even craved one. (Keep fingers crossed.) I thank Mista Jaycee over at A Choice of Weapons for his inspiration. Again, many congrats to you, my brotha!

Well Lovelies.... that 'tis all. I hope that the rest of this week will go well for you. If it is already a struggle or challenge. Don't give up! Hang in there! Be encouraged!

Stay in the fight! Keep your head up! And as always, "do you". It may be rough out there but hold onto your hope... your faith...your light.

I am sure that it will be......."Alright".


Ledisi - Alright - Ledisi

Peace and Blessings!
Much Luv,
ChocolateOrchid

Post Title ALRIGHT

GOOD NEWS MONDAY


Good Morning Beautifuls!

I've decided to make Mondays on here "The Good News Day" post. I'll start it off by sharing a positive quote or two. Feel free to drop a good/positive quote of your own or even a positive story or something that will bring a smile, laugh, or inspiration to the day.

“When one door of happiness closes, another opens, but often we took so long at the closed door that we do not see the one that has been opened up for us”
- Helen Keller

“If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.”
- Dr Wayne Dyer

Post Title GOOD NEWS MONDAY

Sunday, April 5, 2009

WORLD NATURAL HAIR HEALTH & BEAUTY SHOW

Hi Beautifuls!

I couldn't wait to share my experience at the World Natural Hair Show. I had a wonderful time! The vibe, the people, the vendors, the performers were all very nice, informative, and friendly. And yes, there were some great deals. =) (PJ creepin' out). The celebration of beautiful natural hair was everywhere!



Many vendors were there. Some well known, others breaking out on the scene. But all offered products geared toward managing & styling natural hair. The lovely Tito & Miko from Miss Jessie's hair products were there in full effect. They were gracious enough to pose for a photo. Their booth stayed packed & busy. They were selling their products for half price. So, of course, I snagged a jar of Curly Meringue.



Not big on Miss Jessie's?.... Well, another constant bustling booth was Jane Carter Solutions. As busy as she was Ms. Carter didn't think it too much to take time out and strike a pose w/me. Very down to earth and helpful as to the benefits and how to use her all-natural products. I bought two full-size bottles of leave-in for $5...a piece. (PJ is on a roll now!)



And I met the lovely and highly informative hair blogger, Curlynikki. She's just as sweet as her blog. And as you can see, her hair was on point as usual.


And here are some random shots that I took. It really was a wonderful event. I look forward to next year's being even bigger and better.









**Updated/corrected post. My apologies but I had to delete some misinformation that I received. Again I do apologize for this and will take full responsibility for it. While it is not normal for me to simply slap information up on this blog, in my defense I am only human. Just be sure that from here on it out, I will be absolutely sure to thoroughly verify/research any information given to me.**

Peace

Post Title WORLD NATURAL HAIR HEALTH & BEAUTY SHOW

Friday, April 3, 2009

HAPPY FRIDAY!!!!


Hi Beautiful!

Can I say, "THANK GOD IT’S FRIDAY!!” I don’t know about you but I am so glad this week is over! It has been trying, painful (at times) and stressful. But I made it through and the sun is shining today (literally). As I reflect on this week, I focus on the good. That I’m alive, have use of my limbs, can see, have family and friends who love and care about me, a healthy happy child and… I’m still here. When I look at things from this perspective, I realize that every day, every moment that I’m still here is another opportunity to live life to its fullest. It’s another chance to grab hold to that that’s good, healthy, beneficial, beautiful and positive. And not just for myself, but to also share with others. The fact that I’m still here also let’s me know that I’m still, in some way, needed in this world. Something that I have may benefit the world whether it’s a gift, a program, a deed, a movement, etc. etc. Maybe it’s another opportunity to give someone a smile, a friendly hello, a warm “Happy Friday.”, or maybe even a hug. You never know who may need you. And I don’t mean in a big way. It could be the simplest, smallest thing that may be a “no-biggie” to you.

Just had to drop some thoughts…

I did complete my two day detox and I’m happy. It’s been way too long since I’ve done a fast of some sorts. Now, I’m motivated to reincorporate a day a fasting into my week and to strive for a week of fasting each quarter. I really feel great and lighter! The next time I do a fast, I should have my juicer so I can really get down with it! =)



Anyhoo, this is going to be a full weekend for me. Me and my daughter will hang out tonight. Spend some quality time. So looking forward to that! I’ll hit up The World Natural Hair Health and Beauty Show which is going on all weekend. I’ll be in attendance on Saturday. I can’t wait to see all the vendors and demonstrations! Oh, I’ll also get to meet fab hair blogger, Curlynikki. She’ll be there in her own booth. Go, girl!! I also hope to see another fab hair blogger, Urbancurlz. Holla!! Don’t play, Lady! Come on out! I do hope to see other fabulous natural heads, those in transitions and those just curious out there. Hell, just errbody!! Later that day, I hope to catch up with a childhood friend that I haven't seen in eons. And I cannot end this weekend without a much needed session of Hatha yoga, on Sunday! It is vital and necessary for me. Especially, following this week. Whew!



Well Beautifuls..we’ve made another week. I hope that all is well in your world.
Whatcha got going on this weekend? Will you get some time in for you? I sure hope so.
And don’t forget, Lovelies....do you.

Much Luv,
CO

Post Title HAPPY FRIDAY!!!!

Thursday, April 2, 2009

TWO-DAY DETOX UPDATE***


Hi Beautifuls!

This is my update on my two-day juice detox.

By late afternoon I still was not physically hungry. Mentally though, I wanted to eat. It’s a trip! When I assessed myself and how I was feeling, I got the same thing. Not physically hungry but mentally, I missed food. I don’t think I realized how much food is a part of my daily existence. I’ve thought about eating foods that I haven’t had in months. I was seriously tempted on the way home from work. Again, not out of physical hunger but mentally I wanted to engage in the act of eating. Thankfully, I made it past all that and didn’t cave in. Other than that, I feel good.

This particular juice fast, through Arden’s Garden, is a mix of fresh organic grapefruit, orange, lemon juice and distilled water. I don’t know about you but based on what I’ve read, greens are the best juices to detox on. So because of that, I added my Vitamineral Greens powder to my juice yesterday evening and this morning. Call it cheating or whateva you like. I just didn’t feel 100% comfortable doing a juice fast without some green in it.


Feel free to weigh in on this and tell me what you think…

Post Title TWO-DAY DETOX UPDATE***

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

Frizz Forecast


Post Title Frizz Forecast

O.M.G.!!...I WON!! I WON!!

Hi Beautifuls!

I honestly was not gonna post today because I had such a horrible morning. Horrible meaning I was highly pissed and in tears! From a late homework night, to bad traffic, to a conflict with a franchise owner who refused to admit their wrong-doing. Now, put that on top of events that had already occurred and current events and.... What can I say?... it was pretty much a suckey morning.

Anyhoo, after getting past that I decided to peruse my lists of blogs. After reading Chicoro's inspirational (and much needed) post I caught eye of Newly Natural's blog entitled, "You Were Born to WIN, Cheris"! I thought, "Am I misreading things?..Is there another Cheris?" etc, etc.. So, I read the post here and see my photos and needless to say, my day has been made! Oh my, God! The universe is back in balance! (smile)

I honestly don't think that I could speak on today's occurrences better than Chicoro. She hit the nail on the head. It's a great read. Check it out here!

Kcurly, I thank you again for the opportunity given to win a gift card and for such a great hair blog!

**UPDATE ON JUICE FAST**
I began the juices this morning and I honestly wanted to stop and get a egg/cheese biscuit. Now keep in mind that I hadn't wanted one of those in a while. So I began to think, "Am I really hungry?". My answer was and still is "No". It was all in my thinking. I'm so used to putting food in my mouth that my mind was pushing me to get some food out of habit. And no, I'm still not hungry. Just juicing and drinking clean water. I will continue this detox through tomorrow. I'll be sure to keep you all posted.



Peace and Blessings,
ChocolateOrchid

Post Title O.M.G.!!...I WON!! I WON!!