Hair Style of the Week: Inspired by Meechy Monroe

This week’s hair style was inspired by Meechy Monroe’s Roll and Tuck style.  I tried it on my hair and it didn’t work out according to plan. My hair refused to be neither rolled or tucked. I had the most miserable feeling as I tried to shove hairpins in an attempt to force my hair to cooperate.  In the wake of this failing, I opted to get a little more creative by adding twists and flat twists to my hair in a similar shape as the style. Afterwards, I rolled and pinned my twists and voila, I accomplished what seemed insurmountable at first.  In the end, it seemed pretty simple and quick to do. I'm not sure when the twist styles will end!

Deep Conditioning the Ayurvedic Way...

Fro Goal (Source)

Sunday morning I was particularly frustrated with my hair, detangling took longer than I expected, and when I was done it felt as if the ends of my hair were ragged and unhealthy. I was disheartened because my hair ends are the very parts that I go to extensive lengths (no pun intended) to protect each week. Furthermore, I had been faithfully participating in two hair challenges (Mop Top Maven (MTM) and Kim Coles) with what seemed to be no improvement. Sure, I may have missed a few steps (ex. drinking more water, daily vitamins, etc.) but I was following what I believe to be the basic elements (i.e. weekly wash, deep condition, moisturize, and protect). I realize that everyone's hair is different, but these were the fundamentals that I believed - perhaps mistakenly - should have yielded some hint of improvement. Alas, I decided to take things in my own hands and trimmed my hair (Anu of Kahmit Kinks would cringe at the thought of me trimming my own hair). I also decided to do more with the few Ayurvedic powders I purchased instead of watching them languish under my sink unused. My original goal was to wait until I had all the products MTM uses, but I decided to just use what I have rather than seek out more.

The products I use are Amla Powder and Brahmi Powder. Amla, which is also known as Indian Gooseberry. According to ehow.com,  It is the secret to thick, shiny, healthy hair of many Indian women. Additionally, it is a potent antioxidant and an important health rejuvenator when taken internally. It is used as a popular Ayurvedic remedy for many health conditions. Applied topically, Amla is an excellent hair rejuvenator. It is a nourishing herb as it is used to prevent scalp infections, hair loss, and premature greying. Amla also adds luster and shine to hair as a result of its astringent composition. ( http://www.ehow.com/how_5198712_use-thick-shiny-healthy-hair.html)
"Brahmi is used topically in both Ayurvedic and Japanese medicine to treat hair loss and skin problems such as eczema and psoriasis. Brahmi powder can be combined with ashwagandha, tulsi, and amla powders in an oil mixture to massage the scalp. According to one website, It is said to strengthen the hair roots, relieve itchy scalp problems, and help prevent dandruff. ( http://www.fromnaturewithlove.com/soap/product.asp?product_id=ayurherbbrahmi ) My new approach is to use a more holistic hair strategy since I am fresh out of ideas. I realize that I am growing out of years of neglect, but perhaps using a different approach may yield better results!
 
What I did:

I used the remainder of my Yes to Carrots and added one tablespoon of Amla and Brahmi.

 Next, I added a teaspoon of Castor oil and Mahabhringraj oil. The Castor oil was added to help me stretch the conditioner because I did not have enough for my whole head. Since I was also low on castor oil I added some Hello Hydration conditioner that I had in a cupboard. As I started to add this mix to my hair I realized how similar it was to applications of henna I have done.

It had the same earthy green smell and while applying it to my hair it had the same consistency. Once I finished applying the mix to the front half of my head I realized I didn’t have enough for the back. Running out of ideas, I decided to add a tablespoon of Vatika Oil to the remaining mix. In hindsight, I probably should have done this from the start. It made the mix much smoother and with less  granules it was easier to apply.  Once my whole head was covered I sat under my bonnet dryer for about 45 mins and then rinsed.

The results:

First, I should say that rinsing was a bit messier than normal because both powders were brown in color and this remained true as I was washing them outt. Although my tub wasn't left stained going forward I will rinse my hair out in my kitchen sink to minimize the potential for the color to stain my tub and shower cutain. 

Overall, my hair felt great afterwards, soft and my coils were popping. I'm going to place an order for the rest of my Ayurvedic products this week. I will continue to provide updates in the near future.

E.L.F. At My Local Target !!!

Hey Folks. Hope you had a fabulous weekend! Look what I found at my local Target, E.L.F products. There were tons of lip and eye palettes to chose from for 4.99 each. I only walked out with this one but I plan to buy some more VERY soon!

Ciao...

Curls in the City @Khamit Kinks The Review

If you have been following me @Kinkychronicle, then you would have had a first-hand account of the trials and tribulations I experienced trying to make out to the Khamit Kinks Natural Hair Salon for their Natural Hair Meet Up sponsored by Curls. I've never been to Khamit Kinks and I'm still not that familiar with New York City Transit’s subway. I forgot my wallet at work and couldn't get Hop Stop to e-mail the directions to my phone, but I am so glad I stuck it out and went. When I first arrived there were about 20 or so Naturalistas in the waiting room chatting amongst themselves. I am not much of a small talker, so I was there observing the scene. I was deliberating on when to take out my camera when a woman came by with some mini cupcakes in a variety of flavors. I gladly took one as a reward for all of my strenuous efforts to get there and waited for the festivities to begin. Anu, the owner of Khamit Kinks came out and welcomed us all to her salon and their first Natural Hair Meet -Up. Moments later we were ushered to the back where we were offered more cupcakes (I couldn’t get enough) and cocktails of our choice (Bacardi Pre-made strawberry Margarita's, Mojito's, and Zombies). 

Delicious...

 Amongst all of the activity was a station for free henna tattoos and even a raffle for a goody bag of Curls products. I thought to myself this was all quite a unique touch.

 

Cute Henna...



 I have poured over Khamit Kink’s website what seems like over a million times and thought I was familiar with their work and prices. Clearly, I wasn’t as well informed as I thought I was. I was surprised at how the decor was simplistic yet elegant. There were also a few Naturals getting their hair done while the Meet-up was taking place, but they didn’t seem to mind us nor did we mind seeing them.  After a few moments of mingling, Tiffany Torress, the meet-up organizer  welcomed us and talked a little about each of the products in their product line. It was a bit awkward because they were naturals with 3abc type hair speaking to a room full of naturals who had varying hair textures. In the future, I think they should use spokesmodels of all hair types if they truly are a brand that caters to all hair types. Anu, also returned to encourage us to take care of our hair by way of the Khamit Kinks Salon (of course). She made it clear that she had been styling natural hair for 30 years and was “…somewhat of an expert.” I enjoyed her brief talk because spoke about the natural hair movement - not being a trend or a revolution - but an evolution. I believe that it is important that people-of-color realize that we are fine just the way we were created since society at-large seems to indoctrinate the opposite. Also, one of the naturals I met told me she recently had her big chop there and had an amazing experience... future BIG CHOPPERS...from what I hear Khamit Kinks is for you!

Chanel Houston owner of Boutique De Bandeaux

Shortly after thereafter, we were allowed to mingle some more as the spokespeople came around and joined in on the various conversations armed with products to discuss with us. At times they were encouraging us to touch their hair, which I found to be somewhat awkward. There were demonstrations by Hair Dressers using the products (cleansers, conditioners, and stylers) on some of the guests.

Heard he had "magic fingers"...

 Overall, I had a great time even though I didn’t win the raffle (they did give away some cute sample bags though).

The goody bag...

The contents ...

The raffle...

 I met some awesome fellow naturals that I hope to hang out with in the near future or at least see at other Meet-up.

Out and About: A Night in Park Slope



Yes...that's me...and YES I am kicking the train!!

 

As you may or may not know, I am newly car-less and despise it terribly. In any event, a close friend invited me to a game night she was hosting at her home in Queens. I vehemently fought the urge to oppose riding the train and tried my best to figure it out on Hopstop. Alas, I didn't make it. According to HopStop it would have taken me 2 hours, a few trains, and a possible bus to make her house.  After apologizing profusely, and cursing whoever the jerk was that totaled my parked car, I opted to go to plan B.
Ok...I was coerced into considering a plan B. Looking back at it now I feel like it was a great decision. So rather than traveling to Queens, I rediscovered Park Slope Brooklyn.



Beacons Closet

 Call me late but as much as I have heard about Beacons Closet I have never stepped foot inside one until this night.  The premise: Beacons Closet is a clothing exchange store. People go there to sell their items, buy items, and anything in between. Items I saw included: clothes, shoes, accessories, jewelry, and random household knick-knacks. I was surprised that this place was packed on a Saturday night. Everywhere I turned there were men and women flipping through racks, trying on clothes, asking friends for their opinions, and a general buzz of excitement and anxiousness in the air. Honestly, I was a bit overwhelmed by the place so I didn’t stay long, but I was  tempted by an H & M Sweater and a Uniqlo shirt (both under $20). I put them back sadly, but I do plan to go back


Odd Twin 164 5th Avenue

Apparently, there are a slew of vintage stores in Park Slope. I did however decide to venture in one named Odd Twin. This store was a lot quieter than Beacon’s Closet. There were less patrons and more of a focus on their vintage pieces. Along with their vintage pieces came grandmother’s heirloom prices, a little to rich for my blood. Needless to say, I didn’t stay in here long.



Comida 230 5th Avenue



Window shopping can be extremely exhausting. So as I continued my walking tour of Park Slope I came across Comida, a Latino restaurant. It was their happy hour sign posted up outside that had caught my attention.


My Sangria...wasn't the best I ever had.

Comida boasts a daily happy hour from 5-7pm. Specials include $3 draft beers, $4 sangria, and $5 margaritas. Additionally, there are some special appetizers that were $5 as a part of their happy hour special. I ordered some taquitos as an appetizer.



Taquito's

  
 They came served with spiced pumpkin seeds, which were much better tasting than I expected. Comida’s dim lighting and musical selections from soft rock to Spanish music makes for a laid back  style of ambience. While I was taking pictures inside Comida I was approached by an older woman who was mostly milling about fixing menus who asked, "…you're not one of those crazy bloggers are you?'. I was utterly surprised and replied “…yes I am actually…” She went on to introduce herself.   Her name is Margaritte and she happened to be the restaurant’s owner. She asked what I thought about the food and my overall dining experience. I told her that "…I blog about hair mostly…" She seemed to become more relaxed and at ease with that statement. I’ve gone back to Comida since and the food there remains excellent.

Me!!

The night was just getting started. Stay tuned for part 2...

Thai Coconut Curry Shrimp--> Remix

Thai Coconut Curry Shrimp

I’m on a budget! A tight budget! After missing Trinidad Carnival this year, and my car being totaled, I feel as if I have to treat myself to something grand.  Additionally, this is the first year that I have a WHOLE month off for summer vacation. I have every intention to make this grandiose vacation worthwhile. The lone thing missing is the funds to finance this grand excursion. This is where being on a “tight budget” budget comes in. I am not one of those people who can ration out money to different sectors of my life. Seeing the exact figures becomes a depressing and daunting task in my opinion. What I prefer to do is to cut corners and trim the fat (luxuries such as clothes and shoe shopping, eating out which includes buying breakfast and lunch at work to name just a few). Therefore I cook all of my own meals, which entails planning breakfast, lunch, and dinner ahead of time. Last Monday I had a taste for my favorite seafood, shrimp.  Armed with a recipe that I found on www.skinnytaste.com for Thai Coconut Curry Shrimp I went to the grocery store and commenced to buy ingredients; although, I adapted the list a little to suit my taste. 

Jasmine Rice & Shrimp

As I find more quick and easy recipes I will definitely share them with you all.

Thai Coconut Curry Shrimp--> Original Recipe

Ingredients:

·         1 tsp Olive Oil

·         2 scallions, whites and greens separated, chopped

·         1 tbsp  Curry Powder

·         2 cloves garlic, minced

·         1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

·         6 oz light coconut milk

·         2 tsp fish sauce (found in my local Asian fruit stand)

·         1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

·         salt to taste

·         cayenne pepper to taste

Directions:

I love shrimp...seriously

In a large nonstick skillet, heat oil on medium-high. Mix curry powder and a tablespoon of water until it forms a thick paste. Add scallion whites and sauté for one minute.

Add shrimp and garlic, season with salt, cayenne pepper and cook about 2-3 minutes. Add coconut milk, fish sauce and mix well. Simmer about 2-3 minutes, until shrimp is cooked through. Mix in scallion greens and cilantro. Serve hot.

 I also made some Jasmine Rice and followed the directions as listed on the box.  My ultimate goal was to create a dish that resembles something that I might find in a Thai restaurant.  In all, I found this recipe to be quick and easy to make and the food itself was simply delicious. I must admit that I was apprehensive about the fish sauce at first because I had never used it before.  Even though the bottle - nor its name – was very appealing, this ingredient truly brought an authentic taste to the whole meal.

Fish Sauce and Coconut Milk--a strange pairing.

When I picked it up at the Asian fruit stand the sales clerk seemed pleasantly surprised at my selection. He asked me if I was buying it and I replied “…yes. I found the recipe on a website.” He went on to explain “…this stuff is good. We use this in every meal.” This was the motivation I needed to help me get passed my reluctant feeling and perhaps it may help you as well.

Give this recipe a try and let me know what you think…  





UPTOWN Magazine » NY: I Am Not My Hair

UPTOWN Magazine » NY: I Am Not My Hair



Just RSVP'd to this event...

Hair Style of The Week: Style Fail!

A few days ago I was on Meechy Monroe's blog  looking at the amazing pictures from her post on the Naturally Flyy Detroit Meet-Up and I saw this picture.

Source

It was love at first sight for me. A new protective style that I could add to my arsenal. After washing, deep conditioning, leave-in conditioning, and sealing my hair (btw...I am loving Vatika oil) I got started. I was able to quickly flat twist the sides of my hair with little problem. As I tucked and rolled section by section of the remainder of my hair I felt a sense of doom.  My hair at the time was still pretty damp and each section looked like a wavy, puffy, undefined mess! Nothing like the above picture!  Maybe the sections were to small. Maybe my hair needed to be dry and stretched a bit before attempting this. Either way it was an EPIC FAIL. I didn't even take pictures. How did I fix it?   I twisted each rolled section and then pinned that up. This time around there was no beginners luck for me. : (

Front

The side...looking a little uncomfortable in this pic : )

The other side

The back...I don't think it looks that crazy in person. ; )

That's all for now...

Target Haul: E.L.F. and Rimmel and Milani...oh my!

I found myself in Target (Flatbush Ave location in Brooklyn) yesterday looking for a  Rimmel lipstick in  the color Airy Fairy. The reason being? This wasn't my usual Target and I figured this location would have more of a selection of make up and hair products. Why Airy Fairy? Two vloggers that I typically watch on YouTube Ms.Vaughn and her sister Meechy Monroe swear by Rimmel's Airy Fairy and claim that this shade of  pink lipstick would compliment darker skin tones because of its brown undertones so I wanted to give it a try. (The jury is still out on this one but more on that later).The good news? I found Airy Fairy. The bad news? I walked out of Target with a whole lot more! This Target sells E.L.F. products which I love because of their low cost ($1-$3) and has a huge beauty section stocked with hair products for women of color. I even saw a couple of Taliah Waajid hair products (although once I looked at the ingredients I was disappointed and quickly placed it back on the shelf) which they don't have at my local Target.

Where's Airy Fairy? Somewhere to your left ; )

What I bought:
Organic Root Stimulator: Olive Oil Edge Control  4.99 --> I've read a lot about this product on blogs and other natural hair forums raving about how it truly slicks down those edges. The product junkie couldn't resist it once I saw it on the shelf.

Milani Baked Bronzer in Golden 7.99--> Random I know. I was looking for a translucent powder for shine reduction. However, I couldn't find any so I walked out with this.

Tried to show the color of the bronzer on my hand but it's hard to see. : (

I did try it on last night and  I believe this is a product you have to be light handed with. It has flecks of gold which can  be very whimsical but can easily cross the line into a Carnival Tuesday make up look.

Beautiful... but not for every day! (Source)

E.L.F.  Total Face Brush 1.00--> I purchased this for every day use because my current powder brush is shedding .
E.L.F. Concealer Brush 1.00 --> I use my fingers to apply my concealer (with the exception of when using concealer to shape my eyebrows) so I decided to give this concealer brush a try.
E.L.F. Bronzing Brush 1.00--> I picked this up for my new bronzer. ; )
E.L.F. Brightening Eyeliner in Midnight 1.00--> I was excited because this pencil came with a sharpener and I REALLY needed a new pencil sharpener. I have not taken this out of the package yet but as I am sitting here I am wondering is midnight a shade of  blue or black? Hope it's black. ; )
Altoids (Peppermint Flavor) 1.82--> I think I'm addicted to this mint. I try to always have some on hand.
Rimmel Lycra Lash Extender 5.99--> My co-worker and I were having a discussion about mascara last week and she suggested this one. I grabbed it as soon as I saw it in Target and I will be using it tomorrow morning. : )
E.L.F. Super Glossy Lip Shine in Honey Do 1.00--> I picked this lip gloss up because I wanted something I can use on a daily basis for shine. I did try this one on yesterday and it goes on smoothly, isn't sticky, and taste great! It's a winner in my book.
E.L.F. Studio Minty Lip Gloss in Nashville 3.00--> I am constantly looking for a nude lip gloss that flatters my skin tone. The color on this particular one is very sheer so I think it will compliment many different complexions.
E.L.F. Studio Glitter Gloss in Glam Guava 3.00 --> I love glittery glosses for nights on the town. This is just another one to add to my arsenal.
E.L.F. Luscious Liquid Lipstick in Baby Lips 1.00 -->  Another attempt I made on finding the perfect nude/pink lip color for my complexion. For a dollar I figured why not.
Oh and...
Rimmel Lasting Finish Lipstick in Airy Fairy 4.18 --> They only had one of these so I made sure to secure it as soon as I saw it. I will do a review on all of these lip shades in a future posts.

Order of appearance: Honey Do, Glam Guava, Nashville, Baby Lips, Airy Fairy

Going to wash this conditioner out of my hair! Ciao...

Curls @ Khamit Kinks

I'll be there....