Change

I’ve always wondered what this quote meant but now I’m starting to feel exactly what it means. Last year I asked a lot of questions. I asked myself questions. I asked God questions. What’s next in my career? What’s my purpose? Will I fall in love again? When will I be able to afford to buy a house? I went to therapy looking for answers to receive some sort of breakthrough or an “aha” moment. I found love. I found someone who loves me and all my crazy quirks and moods. But yet, I’ve still been searching for something. There’s this feeling like things aren’t moving fast enough or if I don’t accomplish something soon I’ll run out of time. My parents have been talking about retiring, and I keep thinking - no you can’t retire! I have to be in a place to take care of you if something happens and I’m not there yet. Why is time moving so fast? Why are my parents getting older? I’m getting older and I’m tired of family members asking when I’m getting married and having some kids. So much is changing, yet still not the change I want. I’ve been screaming for change in so many areas of my life that I literally had to take a moment each week and reflect and express gratitude. I write down each new thing that happened and what I’m thankful for - every little thing.

I became so obsessed with wanting change I decided to cut my hair. i was so afraid at first because I’ve been so attached to my long hair. Everyone loves long hair. What if I don’t look right? I told my stylist to just go for it! And I felt so relieved, like a weight had been lifted! I know a haircut won’t give me the answers I’m looking for, but maybe it was the change I needed at that moment. Maybe this is the start of what’s to come for me. I took a leap, not knowing what the outcome would be. As Coco Chanel once said, “A woman who cuts her hair is about to change her life.”

I am hoping 2019 is a year of leaps and bounds.

kinky roots

It has been one year since I decided to embark on this journey to natural hair. It has not been easy and I still have a few more inches of relaxed hair to grow out. I've been trimming my hair each time I go to the salon. I've contemplated the big chop, but I still enjoy the versatility of having the length of my hair. I miss my long tresses! I miss throwing my hair into a ponytail on days I don't feel like doing my hair. However, I love how much more healthier my hair is now, and I enjoy the versatility of going from kinky to straight when I want to, without using chemicals. I got Senegalese twists this summer as a protective style this past summer, which was the first time I ever had weave braided into my hair. I am very tender headed so I did not enjoy sitting for 8 hours, but I was happy with the results! I enjoyed the new look, but I quickly got bored with my new hairstyle.  I'm still growing to love my kinky roots even though I hate the shrinkage when it's wet. Beautiful hair comes in all forms: kinky, straight, curly, nappy, coiled, and every other texture under the sun, so I will gladly continue this journey. :)

Transitioning

I am still on this journey to going natural. I have been growing the relaxer out of my hair for almost 6 months. It has been very tempting to get a relaxer but I've been holding out! I look forward to seeing my real hair texture and using only natural hair products instead of harsh chemicals to tame my hair. So lately I've been trying new styles so I won't get fed up bored with my hair. I get bored easily so I cut my hair in the beginning of the year for a new look. Last week I went to the salon and left with a head full of curls! This was a great protective style. I didn't have to do my hair every morning or use any heat. Using a lot of heat during this transitioning process can cause hair breakage. So each night I just put on my satin bonnet and the next morning I used my fingers to comb through my curls. To change up the style I pinned my curls back with a few pieces hanging in the front, and used a colorful scarf as a headband. Accessories and bright make-up can enhance your look as well. Don't be afraid to try new hair styles, add color, chop a few inches, wear it curly or straight, etc. Whatever you decide, have fun with it! Take a look at my recent hair changes.

bunned up.

The Bun Dummy episode of King of Queens is hilarious! Doug HATES his wife Carrie's new bun hairstyle. He stares at it like it's some strange disease because it reminds him of his high school librarian. To him it's not sexy at all, but she refuses to change it. Contrary to how Doug may feel, the bun is a classic, regal look. Paired with the right outfit it is a very bold statement. It shows confidence and elegance. Even a messy bun can be cute with a casual laid-back look or add a red lip for a more refined look. A bun doesn't always have to be prim and proper, there are several ways to make the bun look more chic by adding a headband or flower, bangs, or a few loose curls.

Photo from Seventeen

Photo from Glamour

Photo from Glamour

Photo from Weddingbycolor

Photo from Glamour

Photo from thehairjeanie

Photo from Good Night, Sweet Girl