tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-312722692024-03-07T10:07:19.611-08:00Diary of a Thin Hair SisterI am right at the beginning of my sisterlocks 'journey' and very pleased and proud that I finally made the decision. Being a tad surprised (shocked?) at my thin hair, I thought that I would chart my progress and share my experience with a community of people both looking to start or already on their sisterlock voyage. (Do not make copies of my photos!!)Helgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14392100876026734482noreply@blogger.comBlogger112125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31272269.post-62087803673097644032013-08-12T16:43:00.000-07:002013-08-12T16:43:16.379-07:007 Years<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgYUSWGLgFzcl36Ls21UJ8IWUDAP-3m0O_pVDo4FsE7Bj-M6InsD10ikCNDFw_ID1MDkKkr5WL5NKNs4Ny7pMNl_4AZegDPsuFA4b4AiWL9AMv3pMKjC8loa30K0Fg1CAKpGvRVg/s1600/IMG_0812.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgYUSWGLgFzcl36Ls21UJ8IWUDAP-3m0O_pVDo4FsE7Bj-M6InsD10ikCNDFw_ID1MDkKkr5WL5NKNs4Ny7pMNl_4AZegDPsuFA4b4AiWL9AMv3pMKjC8loa30K0Fg1CAKpGvRVg/s320/IMG_0812.jpg" /></a></div>
(my daughter styled the fishtail ponytail. she's my precious angel)!
It's been 7 wild years since I began my sisterlocks! As many locbloggers have stated, it is surprising how quickly the time passes. It seems like just yesterday that I was braiding and banding! Although my blog name reflects my anxiety about the beginning of the process, I can't say that 'thin' hair is my main concern. Don't get me wrong - I really don't like being photographed in front of a bright window or with my back to the sun! Still, I am truly amazed by my ability to wear a ponytail without wrapping the hairband more than once!
Otherwise, the honeymoon phase is over! I don't spend hours staring at my hair in the mirror, and I'm too lazy to try new styles regularly (not a good thing). I'm pretty much settled into loclife and now contemplating cutting my locs into a bob....
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Helgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14392100876026734482noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31272269.post-8804340382638183762012-09-22T16:23:00.001-07:002012-09-22T16:23:26.051-07:00Brunsli Hairties Revisited Remember when Brunsli's hairties were all the rage??
Really pleased by how good mine looks 5 years later!
(My original post with the hairtie was a few years ago...)!
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Helgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14392100876026734482noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31272269.post-50306112009698167962012-08-23T23:56:00.001-07:002012-08-23T23:56:13.563-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGUYdLjW5tCNbdPHEAzBBE2n4OGCmPfTcI-lprG1LJuxNtj3DHrhJywrsC_vYNQp4xsHrExk3EiRKYPErnsYCxX91daQjp6h8NEscsA-CWotIm5NYdjLmfaMh1wnkB4fb8R1j4ig/s1600/SAM_0650_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGUYdLjW5tCNbdPHEAzBBE2n4OGCmPfTcI-lprG1LJuxNtj3DHrhJywrsC_vYNQp4xsHrExk3EiRKYPErnsYCxX91daQjp6h8NEscsA-CWotIm5NYdjLmfaMh1wnkB4fb8R1j4ig/s320/SAM_0650_2.JPG" /></a></div>
So, this is a quick post about uninvited bangs...
I mentioned two years ago about how I colored my locks and about how I had to endure lice treatments after that summer's vacation. This photo gives you a good indication of how the color and lice treatment impacted my locks and resulted in the new bangs that I am now sporting (you can see from the photo the color difference and the breakage).
I would never advise anyone against coloring her/his hair, but I can say that my happiness about not having to use moisturizer did not bode well for the impact that coloring did have on the locks...
I have been hooked on the Loreal conditoner for color-treated hair, which I would use regardless of whether or not I put color on (it is such a great conditioner for locked hair). BUT, I am now accepting the damages and refusing to add more color...Helgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14392100876026734482noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31272269.post-61601046815774007592012-07-26T17:14:00.000-07:002012-07-26T17:14:40.596-07:00Getting Twisted...Ok, so here are a couple of pictures of my new curling strategy! All my friends were surprised by how much faith I had in the perm rods... now I am hooked on the twist out! It is such a better idea, and it lasts much longer than the perm rod set. I am not one who likes such tight curls, but the thicker the twist, the looser the wave pattern. Anyway, I'm having fun experimenting with a new, easier, less cumbersome method for getting my hair to look full instead of 'thin'!
(I still use the rods in the front to avoid a too tight curl pattern where my locks are shorter. Why are the locks so short in the front, you ask... that's the next post...)
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM6uD8qsTTdY16iE4pIY2jHSwxICWdKhU1eKS_t9cClyHPENLfnRsksGBSsV8ml2EAyxbtJs7GmsBrMY6bbqyJUV3-hjTAMuRfJZFuCUJs9uyC8X4brghOjU0uv0eM6rSuc_CGyw/s1600/IMG_0816.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM6uD8qsTTdY16iE4pIY2jHSwxICWdKhU1eKS_t9cClyHPENLfnRsksGBSsV8ml2EAyxbtJs7GmsBrMY6bbqyJUV3-hjTAMuRfJZFuCUJs9uyC8X4brghOjU0uv0eM6rSuc_CGyw/s320/IMG_0816.JPG" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQQUk_r6IDoS9nFzBjE__05FLOEyu8LNHoMchA1_sBJPU1dnpPBaxe9vJtGYdEj_7PTJPxaG9WkCo45yDMfLfuFzWRp44GRua4ogtPEjSNLJb-dQxmvtJcG1tA9BGLt4MXwdnE_A/s1600/SAM_0632.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="180" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQQUk_r6IDoS9nFzBjE__05FLOEyu8LNHoMchA1_sBJPU1dnpPBaxe9vJtGYdEj_7PTJPxaG9WkCo45yDMfLfuFzWRp44GRua4ogtPEjSNLJb-dQxmvtJcG1tA9BGLt4MXwdnE_A/s320/SAM_0632.JPG" /></a></div>Helgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14392100876026734482noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31272269.post-33981255619236918342012-07-20T07:19:00.001-07:002012-07-20T07:19:50.233-07:00My Last Perm Rod Set<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh388dU4uuEAAb-bP3mrq8vQQtgniBjA-xHfwlXPt6KyUh-vrH0wR6rcY84f90K1JmBdWkEHA0s9lEemkeOlVWr_hRoWvpdsjg0QP2wtJ5gEl-aAli1rsdnNlrnGz6FpIV1EaoD_w/s1600/IMG_0781.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh388dU4uuEAAb-bP3mrq8vQQtgniBjA-xHfwlXPt6KyUh-vrH0wR6rcY84f90K1JmBdWkEHA0s9lEemkeOlVWr_hRoWvpdsjg0QP2wtJ5gEl-aAli1rsdnNlrnGz6FpIV1EaoD_w/s320/IMG_0781.JPG" /></a></div>
So here it is - the photos of my last perm rod set. As you know, perm rods were my favorite way to curl my hair. Yes, I even preferred them to those bendy sticks everyone loved awhile back. At this point, I have to make a change; here's why:
1. Perm rods are great if I'm at home and can sit under the dryer. BUT, they are horrible to travel with (they take up too much space in the suitcase), and depending on the climate of my destination, there is no guarantee that 5 hours will be long enough for my hair to curl!!!
2. Perm rods are almost impossible to sleep on.
3. Once the band that attaches the perm rod to its cap breaks, it is near impossible to put it together again.
4. Perm rods are cheap, but the bigger the rod size, the fewer that come in pack.
5. After twisting my hair and pinning it in bantu knots, I'll never go back to the perm rods again!
So, my next post will show before and after photos of the new styling technique I've come to depend on. Until then, here is the after photo of my last perm rod set!
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmxMuw0e8gaGT-jfhAx0EaLk-IoBQ8x0Hr1yHG-t0i1n3aFPvi5ykmIXrS3PP21G-0QqMDX-e4tQ3nD4SgPf1wr8yDfWR-5iSp51C9beXrahCH6S8WY_TDkni_QlOtmdEE-ZOO3w/s1600/IMG_0795.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmxMuw0e8gaGT-jfhAx0EaLk-IoBQ8x0Hr1yHG-t0i1n3aFPvi5ykmIXrS3PP21G-0QqMDX-e4tQ3nD4SgPf1wr8yDfWR-5iSp51C9beXrahCH6S8WY_TDkni_QlOtmdEE-ZOO3w/s320/IMG_0795.JPG" /></a></div>Helgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14392100876026734482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31272269.post-31904662686003901342012-07-10T07:02:00.001-07:002012-07-10T07:02:32.631-07:00Six Years<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiojKxFdqa0-DBoehDOGBD5m90GGw65vtgLsFCIJIlryLWaEb1EYa1WTViIL7rwfU0qbMTl4N5gP0g2mjbE-AwRDrlAW9R88E2YzuFm4c3qWI-43E1JyCKm3cRPw3toPUsD6Q7SOQ/s1600/IMG_0738.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="282" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiojKxFdqa0-DBoehDOGBD5m90GGw65vtgLsFCIJIlryLWaEb1EYa1WTViIL7rwfU0qbMTl4N5gP0g2mjbE-AwRDrlAW9R88E2YzuFm4c3qWI-43E1JyCKm3cRPw3toPUsD6Q7SOQ/s320/IMG_0738.JPG" /></a></div>
Not my most favorite picture, but July marks my 6th year sisterlocked! We are on vacation abroad, so stay tuned: more flattering photos to come!Helgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14392100876026734482noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31272269.post-44217897460687199492011-11-10T23:05:00.000-08:002011-11-10T23:07:54.006-08:00Norway Updates...by the way...<br /><br />You can see the article I wrote about my summer in Oslo <a href="http://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/opinion/2011/08/201182984256236502.html">here</a>Helgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14392100876026734482noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31272269.post-67777422390569070212011-11-10T22:38:00.001-08:002011-11-10T23:03:15.321-08:00Back to School<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmztvI_eOcuYSsMoZDqftMJDwJP6R3KELeN77ZUVMp9H49kB2jzZOJridNYPRVwsZ0dfh-fGHjiakNG_udCM36q72R5E018XbBM4eoeotxWPzT75nBSvPFffww_JP1UhPDgoggCg/s1600/SAM_0543_2.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 229px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmztvI_eOcuYSsMoZDqftMJDwJP6R3KELeN77ZUVMp9H49kB2jzZOJridNYPRVwsZ0dfh-fGHjiakNG_udCM36q72R5E018XbBM4eoeotxWPzT75nBSvPFffww_JP1UhPDgoggCg/s320/SAM_0543_2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673624884837367250" /></a><br /><br />Ugh! That is a picture from the first day of school! I look tired, but that is how I felt: excited and tired about the beginning of the school year! Life on fellowship was amazing, but alas, all good things must come to an end. This photo was taken (by me) back in September right before my first 9am lecture as a tenure track professor! Pretty cool. My new office is coming along; so nice not to share my creative space anymore. Remember how I looked when I first got <a href="http://helgaslocks.blogspot.com/2007_12_01_archive.html">here</a>? The class? Af-Am literature from migration to Black power... I think it's going pretty well...<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggrtUczXsH8m56cVP156WUH-66yljlq1I5bTZ8BS440aBo2esFKQWVhvqEH3eYqLagatU9Qv2x_e0FCXffJSzNjc2JGMhkiEOsjbR9URYWFpVOh_hQodr88FFidgJzpN9T_sQRog/s1600/SAM_0530_2.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggrtUczXsH8m56cVP156WUH-66yljlq1I5bTZ8BS440aBo2esFKQWVhvqEH3eYqLagatU9Qv2x_e0FCXffJSzNjc2JGMhkiEOsjbR9URYWFpVOh_hQodr88FFidgJzpN9T_sQRog/s320/SAM_0530_2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673624874657674850" /></a><br /><br />The next photo (above) is from a conference in St. Louis, one of the coolest (maybe most underrated?) cities around. Always have a blast working and collaborating with my fellow scholars who join me (well, I really join them) for our annual meeting at Wash U. Had to cut my colleague out, but her locks are always fabulous!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1b3jhT8bFHLq6arESokYDxPI3DOZcdRUelB4k8FlsN5Lu3dFP5uv1rjmn53fFEKxNrelfzAc7PY2nd4sPTHtTTaZ4rGuS44-iODb8r-675s436U0IAFx5pMExgfe145uJTNk66Q/s1600/SAM_0579_2.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 177px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1b3jhT8bFHLq6arESokYDxPI3DOZcdRUelB4k8FlsN5Lu3dFP5uv1rjmn53fFEKxNrelfzAc7PY2nd4sPTHtTTaZ4rGuS44-iODb8r-675s436U0IAFx5pMExgfe145uJTNk66Q/s320/SAM_0579_2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673624871270101522" /></a><br /><br />Finally, a photo from a more recent conference in B'More. I am smiling way too hard, but I thought that this photo shows the progress of my horrible reddish tint, ugh! I related my hair <a href="http://helgaslocks.blogspot.com/2010_05_01_archive.html">coloring</a> gone wrong stories about a year <a href="http://helgaslocks.blogspot.com/2010_10_01_archive.html">ago</a>. Oh, well. I am really digging the green dress...but next time, I will try <span style="font-style:italic;">not</span> to be the <a href="http://helgaslocks.blogspot.com/2009_05_01_archive.html">scholar</a> having the <span style="font-style:italic;">most</span> fun at the afterparty...! (check May 17, 2009).Helgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14392100876026734482noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31272269.post-2582013053664529242011-07-26T04:53:00.000-07:002011-07-26T05:00:12.734-07:00Oslo, July 2011<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBsksKdau3wk7qOGCjudtCYJ30lPnHeDvRMnvLE8gTDA02RzfDbXVbWu5NEI05lmsPlVaLuAzX2_Wd31qtutZILeZHWtAy2NQBCDA2Yz3kOUjQy7wlI3dVXaOhNpfBzJf_lfcQ-A/s1600/oslo22072011.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 184px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBsksKdau3wk7qOGCjudtCYJ30lPnHeDvRMnvLE8gTDA02RzfDbXVbWu5NEI05lmsPlVaLuAzX2_Wd31qtutZILeZHWtAy2NQBCDA2Yz3kOUjQy7wlI3dVXaOhNpfBzJf_lfcQ-A/s320/oslo22072011.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5633628997317513106" /></a><br /><br /><br />Thankful that my closest friends and family are safe. Praying for all who have lost loved ones. Hopeful for the beautiful country of Norway and its commitment to pursuing democracy.Helgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14392100876026734482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31272269.post-79794036288648111932011-07-07T08:47:00.001-07:002011-07-07T09:06:52.629-07:005 Years<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh63anlIY3u6RYCPFnjppPqhqqyEh7VExHDQ34nDu3Wi40xkdNRJI1ejjqmGX8YSBK67QGNi6anTB72ALqGTCkrjqGHzkvRl6YEYkWRFLDni9qCPI6j3ptg-Mk0WTcewiUrefIAaQ/s1600/SAM_0237.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh63anlIY3u6RYCPFnjppPqhqqyEh7VExHDQ34nDu3Wi40xkdNRJI1ejjqmGX8YSBK67QGNi6anTB72ALqGTCkrjqGHzkvRl6YEYkWRFLDni9qCPI6j3ptg-Mk0WTcewiUrefIAaQ/s320/SAM_0237.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626641412776881522" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgazsWtlmYq4NK2kjB9ySHmt03Bq3qXuWsyr3Ht7ozeo1Hc7BwDgJwe9CKLCENF8_c47CcFoySMkCv40TOfK_8o_Kz8FcslU1wadbnIbOTgJi0NJBNzyrVvufjylP8_dhWDnsVNSQ/s1600/SAM_0236.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgazsWtlmYq4NK2kjB9ySHmt03Bq3qXuWsyr3Ht7ozeo1Hc7BwDgJwe9CKLCENF8_c47CcFoySMkCv40TOfK_8o_Kz8FcslU1wadbnIbOTgJi0NJBNzyrVvufjylP8_dhWDnsVNSQ/s320/SAM_0236.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626641421842939698" /></a><br />(excuse the curler :-D)<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKUPPIYUM_rjkvPbzbzlZsHDsH6x8TnyP9hkIaWeZ6mPIJwemt6WH6SexWBtkutd-Ye8litahgp8OrU6vRIvZ9fJJFmbTK9TeyyOIGXtT_4aBkABoanYOg8raGRidOKCJcOEbiEQ/s1600/SAM_0234.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKUPPIYUM_rjkvPbzbzlZsHDsH6x8TnyP9hkIaWeZ6mPIJwemt6WH6SexWBtkutd-Ye8litahgp8OrU6vRIvZ9fJJFmbTK9TeyyOIGXtT_4aBkABoanYOg8raGRidOKCJcOEbiEQ/s320/SAM_0234.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626641429455966162" /></a><br />(this one is for the good eye makeup!)<br /><br /><br />It's that time of year again - the moment to celebrate another year with locks! As usual, I am abroad wishing for sunnier weather... but I did want to post a few pictures of the end of year 5 and the beginning of year 6.<br /><br />Not sure what the protocol is, but I can say a few things about the hair:<br />1. I have been maintaining my locks for the last three years. A loctician has not touched my hair during this time. I can't say that is entirely positive; I am not good at establishing new locks, getting all the loose little hairs into the lock, or sustaining nice parts. That said, I do enjoy the freedom of not having to travel to get my hair did!<br /><br />2. I stopped braiding and banding as soon as possible (that means about 6 months in)!<br /><br />3. I have no commitment to any shampoo or nighttime headwrap. I have only used one shampoo that didn't work for me (it smelled great but made my hair feel like gum; and I am too lazy to tie on a headscarf at night....I used to spread a silk scarf over my pillow...that is lazy)!<br /><br />4. I dealt with a lice scare last summer. Some of the dramatic color difference you can see in the pictures is due to the lice treatments (both store-bought and homemade...).<br /><br />5. I have colored my locks twice: once 'black leather' and once 'darkest brown with golden highlights'. Both attempts were a mistake (from my perspective). The dye left my hair feeling drier and much harder to curl, but I did discover Feria's conditioner in the process. I now use that conditioner regularly for moisture just because it is really amazing for locks (my opinion).<br /><br />6. Yes, I have had more attention from men the further along I go in the journey...<br /><br />7. I am somewhat disappointed by the slow growth process that is the reality of my hair. Nothing to do about that. I am really happy with its appearance at year 5.<br /><br />8. When I started the blog, I had concerns about the thinness of my hair. In the last few years people have asked me if I have extensions! Me?! Really?! So, although I wouldn't reject more density, I am very pleased with how much fuller my hair is now.<br /><br />9. I use perm rods to curl my hair. I stopped with those twisty things long ago! I have also begun curling the top of my head and using large twists in the back (easier to sleep or nap)!<br /><br />10. My next goal is to invent running and swimming head gear that accommodates locks!!Helgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14392100876026734482noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31272269.post-32368223686039584492011-05-11T20:22:00.000-07:002011-05-13T13:48:43.416-07:00Stylish Blogger Award!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAn3mTWtV7T4KqW1WQSO174hN2VOadfoTH70tqQOg3IR1MJxunM95uvgU1OCdCp1NUb0c4TWO7HRzykZ3v7LCe1A9MwqJjt6L9pTFNFJtQgNEn0zUiN2HEO_bhgN6n3NiNqrU1nw/s1600/Stylish-Blogger.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 160px; height: 160px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAn3mTWtV7T4KqW1WQSO174hN2VOadfoTH70tqQOg3IR1MJxunM95uvgU1OCdCp1NUb0c4TWO7HRzykZ3v7LCe1A9MwqJjt6L9pTFNFJtQgNEn0zUiN2HEO_bhgN6n3NiNqrU1nw/s320/Stylish-Blogger.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605668859530562866" /></a><br /><div><br /></div>I've been nominated for a stylish blogger award by a fabulous napptural, and I would like to thank her for this award. Thank you, thank you <a href="http://kalia-dewdrop.blogspot.com/">Kalia-Dewdrop</a>!<br /><br /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(75, 99, 32); font-family:Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;font-size:x-small;">1. Thank and link back to the person that awarded you this award<br />2. Share 7 things about yourself<br />3. Award 15 recently discovered great bloggers<br />4. Contact these bloggers and tell them about the award</span></div><div> </div><div><br />So, wanna know 7 things about me??</div><div><br /></div><div>1. I am an assistant professor in a fabulous UC!</div><div>2. I have an amazing daughter who inspires me and teaches me humility everyday.</div><div>3. I have a newly developed passion for long-distance running. I started only 1.5 years ago, but I have now run four 1/2 marathons, two 10-milers, and one 5k. I am registered for two more! I never thought I could do it, but I am proud that I am!!</div><div>4. I don't like raisins or bananas!</div><div>5. I am deeply phobic of snakes and frogs...don't tease me...</div><div>6. I have 8 siblings (no joke)!</div><div>7. For the last one I was going to say either that I have a motorcycle (Ninja 250) or that I have struggled with panic and anxiety.</div><div><br /></div><div>Sadly, I don't know 15 new bloggers, but I would love to nominate <a href="http://lockanddontstop.blogspot.com/">Meikmeika</a> whose blog and recipes I adore!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Helgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14392100876026734482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31272269.post-9082578353887312042011-04-24T20:20:00.000-07:002011-04-24T20:37:30.575-07:00Paris!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdZEg6w26ESsx4AmjEtSszROInpZgyacBIP1GDsPuquX_-EBTPW78HMZoKCe5HIApX0oGE4E4y-VPuUjiVc5Voa67WJ2pFHr-RB0tSZB7WOg1ckUFQmsuVdA0Iexatz2c_4iQabQ/s1600/IMG_0165.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdZEg6w26ESsx4AmjEtSszROInpZgyacBIP1GDsPuquX_-EBTPW78HMZoKCe5HIApX0oGE4E4y-VPuUjiVc5Voa67WJ2pFHr-RB0tSZB7WOg1ckUFQmsuVdA0Iexatz2c_4iQabQ/s320/IMG_0165.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599358523071959746" /></a><br /><br /><br />I had the wonderful opportunity to travel to Paris, France for the Collegium for African American Research (CAAR) conference. My daughter's spring break coincided with the conference, so we had made a nice little vacation of it!<br /><br /><br />The photo below is from the gardens of Versailles.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgljzWG3vpMvwwy1bIn2Rm_hMuGiz9ZSnGzGXGRrbI26Xbepc0jTO1tWPsmide36E2JVFwM7Ep9liU1wyfMASUr_dM7igKYcGKsBL4MJX85nAgxDQ5tPMRLFW8u2qY9GsIiABSQhw/s1600/IMG_1741.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgljzWG3vpMvwwy1bIn2Rm_hMuGiz9ZSnGzGXGRrbI26Xbepc0jTO1tWPsmide36E2JVFwM7Ep9liU1wyfMASUr_dM7igKYcGKsBL4MJX85nAgxDQ5tPMRLFW8u2qY9GsIiABSQhw/s320/IMG_1741.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599358531574015874" /></a><br /><br />...and one gratuitous 'hair' photo from the gardens of the Rodin Museum! (Still dealing with the color issue! Ugh!!).<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSM75EP1gW6T6oNQrn9CRH0b0mQkH27DVodcN7mAQfjDySm62CN0vN3tKVNlR-pzX0vqBXScflNDWYuV2yeFdq4LJjy7H0kGOC58v6d0heJ_Z_2H_JmyCzmfrteLr0DvEsijUgOg/s1600/IMG_0225.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSM75EP1gW6T6oNQrn9CRH0b0mQkH27DVodcN7mAQfjDySm62CN0vN3tKVNlR-pzX0vqBXScflNDWYuV2yeFdq4LJjy7H0kGOC58v6d0heJ_Z_2H_JmyCzmfrteLr0DvEsijUgOg/s320/IMG_0225.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599358534050137586" /></a>Helgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14392100876026734482noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31272269.post-40762115527651936062011-01-14T16:08:00.001-08:002011-01-14T16:13:28.062-08:00Happy 2011!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTICEMZDPg6xqnoyFU9npd5Ha5Lq7JsRNWmZkWOlNWfUkgJ9QRbpbfolUJTMsXnDhfkexj3zFIH2AIpZsA-WTyK_jhJpXw3w70JN-iGOWTMYe0sHRyXhHIfoSpjVlG-1COgo0yow/s1600/IMG_0055.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTICEMZDPg6xqnoyFU9npd5Ha5Lq7JsRNWmZkWOlNWfUkgJ9QRbpbfolUJTMsXnDhfkexj3zFIH2AIpZsA-WTyK_jhJpXw3w70JN-iGOWTMYe0sHRyXhHIfoSpjVlG-1COgo0yow/s320/IMG_0055.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562198924540810274" /></a><br /><br /><br />Here's to all kind of growth in 2011!Helgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14392100876026734482noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31272269.post-6072383392693884142010-12-19T13:00:00.001-08:002010-12-19T13:02:56.147-08:00Happy Holidays!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR7dIPRSQmAlbNNGMBSqwEca6k5Xl71CuJOUGHGBcZQFibnUMAsdagNrvcj8pXOJrXY0xur6vLO3Pumh72x2GJue04BatdywGPXnJ8Y74ZjK7yeQOJOggmczUQDLvLL2SCSgDLhA/s1600/IMG_0380.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 192px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR7dIPRSQmAlbNNGMBSqwEca6k5Xl71CuJOUGHGBcZQFibnUMAsdagNrvcj8pXOJrXY0xur6vLO3Pumh72x2GJue04BatdywGPXnJ8Y74ZjK7yeQOJOggmczUQDLvLL2SCSgDLhA/s320/IMG_0380.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552501597434076642" /></a>Helgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14392100876026734482noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31272269.post-63246251725307400962010-10-19T21:53:00.000-07:002010-10-19T22:30:07.068-07:00Sisterlocks and the L Word...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxE4MZ6GZu4Ux94DWyn5Oy8V0kmMGjm2wJnJEhZ9q6Ak_CCGQR33OuPprlAiWqsBN-y1PYDp8YofkDwTXHOYantxmAiwGXYcmpd5X84fCq3yDov1hEMtOs8ibUz2Kzgehk00e4cg/s1600/IMG_7556.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxE4MZ6GZu4Ux94DWyn5Oy8V0kmMGjm2wJnJEhZ9q6Ak_CCGQR33OuPprlAiWqsBN-y1PYDp8YofkDwTXHOYantxmAiwGXYcmpd5X84fCq3yDov1hEMtOs8ibUz2Kzgehk00e4cg/s320/IMG_7556.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529987500376437042" /></a><br /><br /><br />Well it was, perhaps, only a matter of time...<br /><br />While unbraiding my daughter's hair after our summer vacation, I was aghast to realize that she had contracted lice during the summer holiday! Despite the luxury trip she had been on with her father, the trip to the "summer house" resulted in an international case of lice. When I say 'international' I am not kidding. Kids from <span style="font-style:italic;">4</span> different countries ended up with lice as well...<br /><br />At any rate, my babe was not in any way willing to part with her tresses, so we took the necessary steps to deal with the issue. Sadly, those steps included very harsh shampoo, lots of laundry (daily for 2 weeks), harsh chemical sprays throughout the house, notifying parents around the world, nit-picking twice a day for 2 weeks, encouragement, support, prayers, tears, and more. <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9FGJlnFnkywSRo0o6zj1KfoR1nCPD2aAND672d1MQolGt3ocDWyIcih9d5PtgehsfzQ0mqaxSyFqLy9-d8jfos-OXXc6WoONXimVljSzBVU4i7ogPbSPJeN14qDh8yw5ehT1Riw/s1600/IMG_7608.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9FGJlnFnkywSRo0o6zj1KfoR1nCPD2aAND672d1MQolGt3ocDWyIcih9d5PtgehsfzQ0mqaxSyFqLy9-d8jfos-OXXc6WoONXimVljSzBVU4i7ogPbSPJeN14qDh8yw5ehT1Riw/s320/IMG_7608.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529992960602479458" /></a><br />We did use the RID kit available at most pharmacies. Unfortunately, the expensive treatment we purchased did not do the trick (it is also clear that the kit is not made with Black or tightly curled hair in mind. The nit-picking comb was mostly a joke on my daughter's hair). At my daughter's open house right before school started, I had to cut short my conversation with her teacher because I saw a bug crawling across my child's head! <br /><br />I did some research online and learned about some other remedies that work more effectively:<br /><br />1. Mayonnaise (on dry hair) all over the head for 2 hours. (This suffocates live louse). Followed by,<br />2. Listerine all over the head for 2 hours. (This kills any remaining live louse). Followed by,<br />3. Vinegar all over the head for 2 hours. (This loosens nits from the hair shaft). Followed by,<br />4. Shampoo with Desitin and/or another shampoo mixed with tea tree or coconut oil. (This is a deterrent to new louse).<br />5. Flat-ironing her hair for 10 days, and nit-picking twice a day (to ensure that no nits remain. I also found that this was more effective for my daughter's hair texture. It made it much easier to see each individual strands and the products used for straightening, jojoba oil or pressing 'grease' y'all, are deterrents for lice because they make the hair strand to slippery for lice to hold onto).<br />6. Washing sheets and clothing daily for 10 days (again, to be sure no nits remain).<br />7. Using tea tree oil daily (to repel louse in case another friend or classmate ends up contracting lice).<br /><br />Needless to say, the thought of getting lice in my beautiful sisterlocks was not an option for me (and I did find a dead bug <span style="font-style:italic;">atop</span> my head after using the RID kit). So I participated in the home remedy. My daughter had a great time slathering me in mayonnaise, but the Listerine and vinegar had a harsh effect on my hair. As you may recall, I colored my hair at the end of May, so after the harsh treatments (and the fact that I am regularly in the sun), my hair is very, <span style="font-style:italic;">very</span> light... almost orange (...yes, some <span style="font-style:italic;">slight</span> exaggeration...photos to follow...).<br /><br />At any rate, I haven't had an outbreak of lice. For me, the color change is a small sacrifice in comparison to the idea that I might have to cut off my locks (my niece also contracted lice from my daughter, or from the luxury cabin they where they were all vacatioing. My sister has long, traditional locks...No cutting for her either!).<br /><br />At the end of it all, the most important things I learned were:<br />1. Don't stigmatize folks with lice!<br />2. Blacks <span style="font-style:italic;">can</span> get lice! (Wish I had a Euro for all the European parents who told me that it was impossible for my daughter to get lice because of her hair texture....! In reality, the myth is probably promoted by the reality that the products Blacks use in their hair makes it more difficult for lice and nits to hold onto individual hair strands, and that louse are repelled by certain oils).<br />3. Patience and understanding are learned in various ways!<br />4. Lice is not gross, just a headache and a hassle to deal with.<br />5. Lice does not mean having to cut your hair.<br /><br />Hope this is helpful to someone out there!Helgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14392100876026734482noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31272269.post-66466174833122095622010-08-09T20:21:00.001-07:002010-08-09T20:34:24.754-07:00...More Summer Pics...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgttR7RDJ9CvgjlgrocoGc46l6wUenQkn-k69t6xLPmNHexpLgk7cxzku-YTtyhrPLwO9Qblirtkeuzx77-O771t6Q1Jdd9Ir1hUsguvzwY3P-QlWz4TzJzNzYgskL37UGKbAxUeg/s1600/DSCF7947_2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 257px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgttR7RDJ9CvgjlgrocoGc46l6wUenQkn-k69t6xLPmNHexpLgk7cxzku-YTtyhrPLwO9Qblirtkeuzx77-O771t6Q1Jdd9Ir1hUsguvzwY3P-QlWz4TzJzNzYgskL37UGKbAxUeg/s320/DSCF7947_2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503618884993070226" /></a><br />Oslo<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEAm7zmv6svP2yjvHVL5GVgdHjid7LdFY3JeR8XSCzm7ULLXZtT5U2RysgBShk0iOF7zoR_43OZGCEXB0BE3ZBKfQKGL_vKRwjVFheuImqAlrvc_woALFb_2P_pJMDBje5ZFbQ9g/s1600/DSCF7263.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEAm7zmv6svP2yjvHVL5GVgdHjid7LdFY3JeR8XSCzm7ULLXZtT5U2RysgBShk0iOF7zoR_43OZGCEXB0BE3ZBKfQKGL_vKRwjVFheuImqAlrvc_woALFb_2P_pJMDBje5ZFbQ9g/s320/DSCF7263.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503618876120816290" /></a><br />Spain<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg69jrr_lGFwiB5KWi7781Ak6BBW4x7rtLZIX9ub-5YBffQ0_yuAZjeqEiGELupEC_QyUF5WKPqzgqUBE0CwJRazvLYmc_v-uu_u7JwkrHt10fLWUL5uV8b5m8-NM2Gr971xTytXg/s1600/DSCF7489.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg69jrr_lGFwiB5KWi7781Ak6BBW4x7rtLZIX9ub-5YBffQ0_yuAZjeqEiGELupEC_QyUF5WKPqzgqUBE0CwJRazvLYmc_v-uu_u7JwkrHt10fLWUL5uV8b5m8-NM2Gr971xTytXg/s320/DSCF7489.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503618867369258034" /></a><br />Germany<br /><br />...I've gotta buy some non-black clothing!Helgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14392100876026734482noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31272269.post-27266903262104109172010-08-04T13:57:00.000-07:002010-08-04T14:11:00.375-07:00Another Amazing Summer<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqV95LNqbzeN7BQclKwyg4Sp75OUkOfsQyqzMIbUGtPplL1xhu2RACy2rLsfQGqoP6sY-df4JCcxhKcJiUm5_XdbJyEYbu5PeEnMMJz7_mRGgQKUGMwZL8zce7C5NZfcTI3DpOjA/s1600/DSCF7028.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqV95LNqbzeN7BQclKwyg4Sp75OUkOfsQyqzMIbUGtPplL1xhu2RACy2rLsfQGqoP6sY-df4JCcxhKcJiUm5_XdbJyEYbu5PeEnMMJz7_mRGgQKUGMwZL8zce7C5NZfcTI3DpOjA/s320/DSCF7028.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501664605330382162" /></a><br /><br />Finally home after the annual summer trip! July also marked my 4th year locked! We made it to Norway, Spain, and Germany this time around, but all the photos are from Spain... So enjoy the photos and keep enjoying what remains of the summer!!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3wjRxLldSsSORQHYO_Cz2mKC1vmJT5nfqXcNVvH_u1VBfLxPrF1NCVh2aIJMmWUZ4theoJdiHPFTwy1mHq8m2nhlnt9kQF2aZ4eGG4xWshuP35BSBDnApHG6HsYgcgoMi2Y2_7A/s1600/DSCF7052.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3wjRxLldSsSORQHYO_Cz2mKC1vmJT5nfqXcNVvH_u1VBfLxPrF1NCVh2aIJMmWUZ4theoJdiHPFTwy1mHq8m2nhlnt9kQF2aZ4eGG4xWshuP35BSBDnApHG6HsYgcgoMi2Y2_7A/s320/DSCF7052.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501664595192273410" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimc8wCcKcPHKion3SBZo2T5OlcRgxHo0cbp1G50yp1IXZJTmf1Ga3v_30SKBEF9tX4YifwiNFF6Xj69vvzQ9Xq3Y5KnJ2j6pIa1_COZUm2y1sZ0FsKk_bnshNWJbz0ImlX8Mf_Qw/s1600/IMG_7424.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimc8wCcKcPHKion3SBZo2T5OlcRgxHo0cbp1G50yp1IXZJTmf1Ga3v_30SKBEF9tX4YifwiNFF6Xj69vvzQ9Xq3Y5KnJ2j6pIa1_COZUm2y1sZ0FsKk_bnshNWJbz0ImlX8Mf_Qw/s320/IMG_7424.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501664615697785090" /></a>Helgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14392100876026734482noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31272269.post-87747910706484649892010-06-21T10:01:00.001-07:002010-06-21T10:05:34.798-07:00We Made It!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgogxYa5HiPxoSwJOQryeAhPIq_f6dtXYC1ubBmguKigbdwHD-n-v1FWv47wb_Hz9PQ6CU4G1LtemaTj53gXWoiwmyPMAjzEEFEdP98PWgwtqTPI4OLAgmU6Z9ONwNHAueeuhgdPg/s1600/IMG_7301.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgogxYa5HiPxoSwJOQryeAhPIq_f6dtXYC1ubBmguKigbdwHD-n-v1FWv47wb_Hz9PQ6CU4G1LtemaTj53gXWoiwmyPMAjzEEFEdP98PWgwtqTPI4OLAgmU6Z9ONwNHAueeuhgdPg/s320/IMG_7301.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485273914288749618" /></a><br /><br /><br />Well, we have arrived! A mostly pleasant trip to Oslo, completely without incident! The only real problem happened before we left... As you can (kind of see) from the photo, my eyebrows are orange! Do not bleach your eyebrows while enjoying wine at your going away party... Just some advice...Helgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14392100876026734482noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31272269.post-30164904529799765082010-06-17T23:52:00.000-07:002010-06-17T23:54:57.242-07:00And we're off!It is summertime and that means another trip! Stay tuned for updates about this summer's travels! Many pictures and adventures will follow (I hope and pray)! Meanwhile, pray for safe travel and for safety for my daughter and I. I will write and post photos as soon as I arrive. Thank you all for your attention and your beautiful comments.<br /><br />Much love,<br />HelgaHelgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14392100876026734482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31272269.post-57850369178715877792010-06-06T21:09:00.000-07:002010-06-06T21:17:56.345-07:00Yet Another Headshot!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKEplBpiqz1bTG3c6wdCuN7EwEXh0Bn8XoFf8d3xxXSzTxk3nKQ0m-XDVlGRPHwz-oD2m-2Jot9tsvl1qwDxAfzH5oS5epBQMZF2vl4mzbxu9Fg9YI3u972R_pvvpPVt7KACLc1g/s1600/IMG_7289_2.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 243px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKEplBpiqz1bTG3c6wdCuN7EwEXh0Bn8XoFf8d3xxXSzTxk3nKQ0m-XDVlGRPHwz-oD2m-2Jot9tsvl1qwDxAfzH5oS5epBQMZF2vl4mzbxu9Fg9YI3u972R_pvvpPVt7KACLc1g/s320/IMG_7289_2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479879937883563634" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;"></span><br /><br />I still haven't learned my lesson! I keep promising myself that I will hire a professional photographer for "next time," but once again, I got a friend to take a picture of me in front of my bookshelf!<br /><br />As usual, I continue to be flattered and excited about the professional opportunities coming my way <span style="font-style:italic;">and</span> by the repeated requests for a "headshot!" So, this is the latest installment. As usual, you can compare this photo to the previous years (see May 2009).Helgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14392100876026734482noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31272269.post-830033804364847842010-05-31T20:34:00.000-07:002010-05-31T21:01:39.410-07:00New Hair Color; Everybody Wins!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfI5nai_9AIZ4FNtv2Rnt79l-wi7lkR3k53_wQ1LFXbmucCccVIwcZm4P8mGz7DdlY36ILGyfvdjmSQPl_nF8loVm93Ml8c_gGFNckmDYEHNmdytgzFzIz9X-MG9O3wJ00WstIeg/s1600/IMG_7254.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfI5nai_9AIZ4FNtv2Rnt79l-wi7lkR3k53_wQ1LFXbmucCccVIwcZm4P8mGz7DdlY36ILGyfvdjmSQPl_nF8loVm93Ml8c_gGFNckmDYEHNmdytgzFzIz9X-MG9O3wJ00WstIeg/s320/IMG_7254.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5477645015682379042" /></a><br /> <br /> I did it! Most of the comments to my previous post were in favor of a darker hair color. Most of the people who know me in person thought I should go lighter! I settled on something in between.<br /><br />Check out the before (above) and afters!<br /><br />We used two boxes of Ion permanent hair color. Darkest brown with golden highlights! We'll see when the golden kicks in... My sister worked through my hair, squeezing locks with the color solution to make sure that all of my hair was covered. The density of locks means that at least two boxes and thorough covering are necessary for the color to take. We kept the color on for at least 40 minutes before rinsing. I bought the Feria conditioner, which is the absolute best for color treated locks, or for dry locks. I continued to use the conditioner even after my first dye job faded.<br /><br />I was <span style="font-style:italic;">very</span> apprehensive about coloring my hair (mostly for fear of my hair looking dry or just crazy!), but when I begin contemplating cutting my hair into a bob, I know that it is time for some kind of change... Keep in mind that I have only colored my hair once in my entire life, and that I wore braids for almost 15 years (ya, I am afraid of hair changes!)!<br /><br />Before:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIjCMZnQD66H3WMZbfOnSYleQ6Cs2kMH7zlqXd7S1krMoCN-oAPCIIlhOKTzpePGrF3CvhsuaaE98HiyLVAp605hE9V2-sfLRIb7xiXNZnWFCgz_av3-Prz31XfXyRhY1pLUjgkA/s1600/IMG_7248.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 297px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIjCMZnQD66H3WMZbfOnSYleQ6Cs2kMH7zlqXd7S1krMoCN-oAPCIIlhOKTzpePGrF3CvhsuaaE98HiyLVAp605hE9V2-sfLRIb7xiXNZnWFCgz_av3-Prz31XfXyRhY1pLUjgkA/s320/IMG_7248.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5477645022736827954" /></a><br /><br />After:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUeGRK-cA5j5bcrOCJRETMEO7iHgmD2UN7SHcYXr5-Sp3lVBluHuIEOQUMqWBIZo0lB5dzRKGEQj5Le9-nsmF1wFQxRn5DsI7-buxaZqgjIy7gXO6HXn37bCFc-fIr5Djgc3JhTA/s1600/IMG_7263.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUeGRK-cA5j5bcrOCJRETMEO7iHgmD2UN7SHcYXr5-Sp3lVBluHuIEOQUMqWBIZo0lB5dzRKGEQj5Le9-nsmF1wFQxRn5DsI7-buxaZqgjIy7gXO6HXn37bCFc-fIr5Djgc3JhTA/s320/IMG_7263.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5477647793190058242" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXA3taBa_sNoSvWZzaJNpq8OOvnV95yvTLhSu15LkXGZ7aybT7S5403dfH_RnijCGUM45TonqhJ6xGBJmbQOqEv7kzKvAUX4vDyfv4bi9u1H5ufY4gSHo9hesKYAhcCKF8WICr6g/s1600/IMG_7261.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXA3taBa_sNoSvWZzaJNpq8OOvnV95yvTLhSu15LkXGZ7aybT7S5403dfH_RnijCGUM45TonqhJ6xGBJmbQOqEv7kzKvAUX4vDyfv4bi9u1H5ufY4gSHo9hesKYAhcCKF8WICr6g/s320/IMG_7261.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5477647783027210066" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEugdfZdM-l4BHgJ7TlRUL4cCFT1Xh4jKxFZccdyNmKB98b9Mk12udYrI0FkMVsjRGTQBeYyVipqHQU6s83rLTu08QpA9mtwDa7vF5uZ5hgYmI-zI-D38K8LYi_I-sRLIaGv9dCA/s1600/IMG_7260.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEugdfZdM-l4BHgJ7TlRUL4cCFT1Xh4jKxFZccdyNmKB98b9Mk12udYrI0FkMVsjRGTQBeYyVipqHQU6s83rLTu08QpA9mtwDa7vF5uZ5hgYmI-zI-D38K8LYi_I-sRLIaGv9dCA/s320/IMG_7260.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5477647781421036578" /></a>Helgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14392100876026734482noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31272269.post-28023186389590309712010-05-13T20:57:00.000-07:002010-05-13T21:02:14.551-07:00The Hair Color...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBQ-ftuEr6tkPR5MP0_zU4Ro4QzXY4dNAOLfjNbAx9SCUXRvUx9EHmbBMD0Xoj49ZqVp8D35rSm2cpQtNaOPJe-pxru4sWPPuJ1tckCzvBeba3D7fdbeht_4LclQ8asyzNpHCoIg/s1600/IMG_7188_3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 278px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBQ-ftuEr6tkPR5MP0_zU4Ro4QzXY4dNAOLfjNbAx9SCUXRvUx9EHmbBMD0Xoj49ZqVp8D35rSm2cpQtNaOPJe-pxru4sWPPuJ1tckCzvBeba3D7fdbeht_4LclQ8asyzNpHCoIg/s320/IMG_7188_3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470970022983307458" /></a><br /><br /><br />Well, not even two boxes of L'Oreal's "Black Leather" could help my locks stay black! I have posted before about my only adventure with coloring my locks, but now that summer (and a loooong vacation) is soon upon me, I am wondering if I should go for it again.<br /><br />I have been calling my natural hair color "dull rust pipes," but in the sun it is a coppery brown (just to be nice to myself...). (The picture above is my natural hair color). So what do you think, should I go black, or should I try to accentuate the brown?<br /><br />I will color before I go based on your suggestions.....!!!Helgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14392100876026734482noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31272269.post-5455217761726534892010-05-11T20:29:00.000-07:002010-05-11T20:41:46.876-07:00Running with Locks!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi61N8D7e90kHa_JDQ1NFzHgwoGJUUr-iBoNEvYPnKN5QeJEHcXhyphenhyphenf0zS3Ncxl9C7D5YONo1YGs8o4gVvj0Rz8NF-NQ_rNpQa1nkbc7Ak2q6DdLs05Epz0VWYmrgxC9hDNHs-memQ/s1600/IMG_2522.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi61N8D7e90kHa_JDQ1NFzHgwoGJUUr-iBoNEvYPnKN5QeJEHcXhyphenhyphenf0zS3Ncxl9C7D5YONo1YGs8o4gVvj0Rz8NF-NQ_rNpQa1nkbc7Ak2q6DdLs05Epz0VWYmrgxC9hDNHs-memQ/s320/IMG_2522.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470223207562308546" /></a><br /><br />Go Helga, Go! Very proud to report that I ran and completed my first half-marathon last weekend! It was also to great to be out there representing Black folks. Sadly, there were only about 10 of us (out of over 2000 runners), but I am hoping that I can use my new gig and newfound love of long-distance running to encourage more African Americans to run for f-u-n!<br /><br />BTW: I am no "exercise person" and I was not particularly fit beforehand. I can't even say that I "enjoy" exercising. But the feeling of crossing a finish line... there is nothing like it! <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh2pi1o91m8RixfGrSqqgM0bae4VA7i6rUpCOG5JGVUr7K_kSgBC4UyQTsVWsJ9RwNMSheVTPP3s9Kaba2076mvIVujNcxTMFeQgQv5tFtJUutfUEWcL9dCgu10zI6qnc0nWV6QA/s1600/IMG_2500.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh2pi1o91m8RixfGrSqqgM0bae4VA7i6rUpCOG5JGVUr7K_kSgBC4UyQTsVWsJ9RwNMSheVTPP3s9Kaba2076mvIVujNcxTMFeQgQv5tFtJUutfUEWcL9dCgu10zI6qnc0nWV6QA/s320/IMG_2500.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470223194494586706" /></a>Helgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14392100876026734482noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31272269.post-69492224745668509942010-04-01T17:33:00.001-07:002010-04-01T17:42:04.093-07:00No More Job Talks!Hello Everyone!<br /><br />Thank you to everyone who has been following my blog. You may recall that last year I went on job talks all over the country.<br /><br />I am now happy to report that I will not be going on any more job talks! I had my last one in March and was offered my dream job!<br /><br />God is good all the time!<br /><br />The photo below is from my birthday celebration, which was also a celebration of the end of the job search! <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEZJy5EUBiGno49wwCeJb30KLy4HIyj2PI9F3GXWbugXFSky5_ta3EmoG0-1Dc5G40eiLPhaQZzXQ3ZDpxKJWqMpXZ0hyphenhyphenfUvuNIFbyWFpoR6dypHq9vp6D_8IAfm-niYwgyGtJvw/s1600/IMG_7071.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEZJy5EUBiGno49wwCeJb30KLy4HIyj2PI9F3GXWbugXFSky5_ta3EmoG0-1Dc5G40eiLPhaQZzXQ3ZDpxKJWqMpXZ0hyphenhyphenfUvuNIFbyWFpoR6dypHq9vp6D_8IAfm-niYwgyGtJvw/s320/IMG_7071.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455332989388845922" /></a>Helgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14392100876026734482noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31272269.post-79965830309877374312010-01-26T14:24:00.000-08:002010-01-26T14:31:19.915-08:00Jealousy... ;-)My sisters are stunning, and their <span style="font-style:italic;">hair</span>.......!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpHuHIh8b-aMzWv8c4zmKWd2eeGJgTHQW4eg1JcUoOT2UHyYqgYc3uHz713_VRb27pdB7bfsWyLCUp3qyXmRVB1WoWu1ie4M5oCgI727ej_H9h_un6O-HNK_QYm4FeYedlklEH1A/s1600-h/IMG_7033.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpHuHIh8b-aMzWv8c4zmKWd2eeGJgTHQW4eg1JcUoOT2UHyYqgYc3uHz713_VRb27pdB7bfsWyLCUp3qyXmRVB1WoWu1ie4M5oCgI727ej_H9h_un6O-HNK_QYm4FeYedlklEH1A/s320/IMG_7033.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431179106288788946" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj9AqQ09KK0VPgz-MB8qmgmmb-0KkUYnWWNvG0T93sqPKICFXK-lWEL7JjCZSLKwt9nLPKTlw0nw3tMuzAashOuwSnlkGTaeqFDwf1ukxmrhuLTjt7E44wGKS4gTHWnUluKrEyjQ/s1600-h/IMG_7034.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 195px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj9AqQ09KK0VPgz-MB8qmgmmb-0KkUYnWWNvG0T93sqPKICFXK-lWEL7JjCZSLKwt9nLPKTlw0nw3tMuzAashOuwSnlkGTaeqFDwf1ukxmrhuLTjt7E44wGKS4gTHWnUluKrEyjQ/s320/IMG_7034.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431179118500767554" /></a>Helgahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14392100876026734482noreply@blogger.com15