Friday, September 27, 2013

Say Hello to "The Bad Guy"....


You have at least one reality show you love to watch. Most people watch reality shows for the drama. A reality show would be nothing without a villain. A show must always have a bad guy or the "bitch". I recently saw people comment in a very hateful and negative way on Instagram about Dutchess of Black Ink Crew. Last season everybody loved Dutchess and now this season everyone hates her. People say she has changed and they hate her. She now is officially the bitch of the show. I have heard many reality stars say the show edits so much and makes people look like the "bad guy". I then hear others respond well don't give them nothing bad to record. I disagree with both responses because no one wants to be the villain. Nobody wants to admit there is a bad side to everyone. We got it all wrong about being "bad". Everything has duality because balance must be present. Evil and good must both exist. You have two sides to one whole. Even if your good side out weighs the bad,the evil is still present. If a camera crew followed you around for a week what would they record? If you were on a reality show would you be the bad guy or the "bitch"? I think people should think about themselves before pointing out who is negative. Once in your life you have played the villain...Everybody takes a trip to the dark side. 

Tuesday, September 17, 2013

3 of My Fav Curling Products!



I must say it's been a journey since I cut my locs off. Finding the right products for your natural hair is a job within its self. I'm willing to try anything that will help me achieve the perfect curl. I have finally found three that make me happy.

Below are my 3 favorite curling products.



#1 My Favorite
I love the smell. It enhances my curls without the crunch. It's not too greasy and gives you soft curls. It also dries quickly with little shrinkage of the curls. Only con I wish it didn't cost so much.



#2nd Fav

I love the smell. Gives me a nice curl. It can be a little greasy. It takes some time to dry. It will give your curls a little crunch so you have to pull the curls out some to get rid of the hardness. It can be a little pricey but worth it.



#3rd Fav

The smell is wonderful. It can be very greasy depending on how much you put in your hair. It curls the hair fairly well. I like to use it for twist outs. It sometimes can make the hair look shorter but  usually after my hair dries I pull my hair to extend the curls. The cost is great when I can't buy #1 or #2


I hope this helps my Curly Mamas...

Have fun!

-Peace Mamas






Thursday, August 8, 2013

The Peace in Confrontation

Hey Mamas,

     I was inspired to write this blog from a recent confrontation I had with a friend. I thank her for the inspiration because it has brought me back to something I love to do. So lets go back to the topic at hand..."Confrontation". Why is confronting another person necessary? Why can it bring peace to a situation? Two very good questions to ask my self and to ask you my fellow readers.

Confrontation is defined the act of confronting someone face to face. It also can be defined as a conflict of ideas or a conflict between armed forces. All these definitions sound negative. The reality of the matter is confrontation is needed. You can assume in your head all day about if a person feels a certain way about you. You can assume someone did or said something towards you. The truth and the fact is you never really know until you confront the matter. I enjoy confrontation because it clears out all the bullshit and the fluff.

As a child I was very quiet. I never spoke up for myself. Most times I would cry if someone hurt me. I hated to get in arguments or confront another person. It was a fear in me to get get hurt. I was told recently I couldn't handle hearing the truth about myself. I now laugh to my self because I know that's far from the truth. The truth is I can handle truth and I can handle confrontation right in front of my face. I like to hear the tones and vibration from another person. If your angry than let me hear you shout. If your sad and you want to cry it out I'm here to see it and hear it. Another person can tell me to my face they hate me because with face to face confrontation it's real. So you may be wondering where the fuck is the peace. The peace comes
in after the storm of the confrontation. Its the comfort of getting it all out. You said all you had to say and the other person said what they had to say. At the end you might be able to hug one another and say I'm glad this shit happened. The assuming has disappeared and there is room to grow and learn from the confrontation. Can you see it? Can you see the peace in confrontation?....



_Peace Mamas

Tuesday, June 19, 2012

DREAM BIG, BRIGHT, & BOLD!





She is a trendsetter, knows how to make a statement, and creative beyond measure. Who am I talking about? Fashion Designer Jasmine Elder of JIBRI brings amazing and out of the box fashion to Plus Size Women. We love her bold prints and unique designs. I was able to talk to Jessica about JIBRI and see some of her  designs that will turn heads on any woman that wears them. You’re in store for a great interview…
 

What made you become a fashion designer? Why the name JIBRI?
 
I've been creating my own garments since I was a kid so 
I think that is something that has always been a part of me. When I was in high school, I’d stay up every night making some crazy overly costumed get up (Dresses made from pennies-skirts covered in rhinestones etc). I was basically a club kid in Georgia (which was hilarious on so many levels).  I met a friend who had her clothes custom made by this designer named JIBRI MANN. I was immediately drawn to him. He taught me to really construct a garment. He taught me to make patterns--He taught me so many things including the fact that it was necessary that I never ever stop dreaming big dreams. (Corny I know…but that’s exactly what he’d say).  A whirlwind of events (including fashion study in NY and Europe) lead me back to my sewing machine after an almost 10 year break and I started the line aptly named, JIBRI.

How does your fashion line stand out of the ordinary?
The main stand out point is that JIBRI is dedicated to plus size women only.

Jasmine, I see in your clothing line you use very daring lines and bold prints. How do you come up with such appealing designs for plus size women?  
JIBRI is designed for the strong yet feminine curvy woman. This woman is also confident. She deserves bold prints and vibrant colors because she is bold and vibrant. I don’t water down the design because of the size of my consumer.

Do you feel there is a lack of designers catering to curvy women?
 I'm actually really impressed that designers are starting to expand to plus sizes. Plus sized clothing is definitely a lot "sexier" than it used to be, but it's still a void in fashionable pieces that say "chic". I’m eager to see the industry embrace and appreciate fabulous fit and quality construction. Overall, the industry is growing at an astonishing rate and that makes me happy.
What or who has inspired you in fashion?
I’m heavily influenced by music, art, vintage cinema, underground culture
& iconic female figures. I’m also a travel junkie so I pick up inspiration from different parts of the world all the time.

What should every woman have in her wardrobe to make her feel fabulous?
A signature haircut, a lip color that mesmerizes, a classic trench coat (this creates glamour regardless of what’s underneath), a pair of shoes that creates crowd frenzy and at least one dress that makes her smile every time she looks at it.
What do you see in the future for JIBRI?
I hope to be able to solidify JIBRI as a globally recognizable boutique
brand for the glamorous, sophisticated and highly fashionable curvy woman.
 
Describe your fashion line in 3 words?
Elegant, chic & classic

Thank you so much Jasmine…






FOOD HEAVEN’S ANGELS



Natural beauties Wendy and Jess take healthy living to another level. You won’t find these ladies on television karate chopping but chopping up tasty veggies. Wendy and Jess are creating heavenly dishes that will have you eating and feeling better. I was able to catch up with the two ladies of Food Heaven Made Easy and ask them questions about the show, natural hair, and personal style. Check out what the ladies have to say. I’m sure you will enjoy!


Why did you start the show Food Heaven Made Easy?
The rates of obesity and obesity related diseases, such as diabetes, are running ramped our communities. We’ve done lots of work surrounding nutrition and we noticed that folks don’t always feel empowered to make healthy eating choices.  A lot of reservations came from budget constraints and lack of knowledge regarding healthy cooking. We created Food Heaven as a platform to show folks of the Diaspora that healthy eating is attainable for everyone.
Do you feel that your show will make a difference in the black community?
Yes. We have been so grateful to already have amazing fans that watch each episode!  We get emails and comments everyday from people saying how much they appreciate the show or how they tried the recipe and loved it. It’s great to know that show is really inspiring folks and making a difference in their eating habits.
What are some easy steps you can do to eat healthy?
We recently did a post on 5 Ways to Eat Healthy on a Budget. Be sure to check those out on our site! Below are 3 bonus steps that can be easily incorporated into your daily regimen.
Plant-Based Diet
The majority of your diet should be plant based. This includes veggies, fruits, nuts, seeds, beans and grains.
Balance
Make sure to eat balanced meals that include lots of veggies, lean protein, complex carbohydrates and healthy fats.
Portion Control
Portion sizes have increased significantly over the past few decades. Try eating on a smaller plate to ensure you are consuming less at each meal.

What foods are great to help make your hair grow?
Foods with B vitamins, Vitamin A and Vitamin E all work together to maintain healthy hair. Good sources for B vitamins include whole grains, potatoes, bananas, lentils, chili peppers, tempeh and beans. You can get vitamin A from carrots, broccoli, sweet potatoes, kale, spinach, collards, pumpkins, cantaloupe, mango, papaya, and eggs. Vitamin E is found naturally in wheat germ oil, Sunflower oil, Safflower oil, nuts (like almonds and hazelnuts), avocadoes and green leafy veggies. The moral of this story: If you eat a well balanced-plant based diet you are sure to get the proper nutrients to promote hair growth.
How long have you both been natural?
Jess: For about 7 years.
Wendy: It’s been 3 years.
Name you favorite hair care product and why?
Jess: Devachan one conditioner. It’s the only thing I use. I’m pretty lazy when it comes to my hair. I don’t have the patience to experience with a bunch of hair products, so when I find something I like, I stick to it.
Wendy: Jojoba oil because it's so flexible! I use it for my skin, hair, and home. It leaves my hair super moisturized, my skin glowing, and serves as a great base for burning my essential oils.
On the show I love your chemistry and style… Describe your personal style?
Jess: I like to experiment with bright colors and patterns, but at the same time, I am a big fan of keeping it basic. I buy 80 percent of my clothes from the thrift stores (read: goodwill!), and sometimes I cop a couple of pieces from Forever 21, HM and Target (or ‘round the way stores like Conway and Pretty Girl….stop sleepin’!) I also love having clothing swaps with friends to exchange what I’m no longer feeling and cash in on new treasures.
Wendy: Well I don't really go clothing shopping due to lack of funds, but usually I'll just recycle the clothes I already have and cut em up into something that looks totally different. I'm also a fan of clothing swaps and consider them a great way to get free funky clothing, and bond with my sister friends. When I do have some money to splurge, I'll go to small boutiques in the city, or support independent fashionistas that are doing their thing. I also hit up H&M and Forever for some basics. Lastly, I can't leave my house with some big earrings on. 
What should every woman have in her closet to make her feel beautiful?
Jess: Clothes (and shoes) that make you feel comfortable. I feel the most confident when I am comfortable in what I am rocking.
Wendy: Comfortable underwear! It's really annoying when I'm wearing panties that I can barely walk in because they give constant wedgies. Underwear that compliments your body in a sexy and comfortable way is a thumbs up in my book.

Finish the statement… In the future Jess and Wendy will be
…shining superstars! We're both working towards expanding the show and making this a movement that includes visual media and personal community interaction and organizing around food sustainability. One of the greatest things about our show is that we are able to be ourselves and do things that we want to do. When working for other people or organizations, you don’t really have that flexibility. We see our show as a step towards our personal and professional independence.



 Check them out!!!     http://www.foodheavenmadeeasy.com/




Sunday, June 17, 2012

Must have products for flawless summer skin!

Summer is here and on those hot days we all tend to show off more skin. Many people are telling me my skin looks flawless and smooth. I realized I have changed up my skin care routine and I want to share with you the products that make my skin summer ready.

First you must purchase a body brush and bath pouf.
 Both body tools are great for exfoliation.


Tree Hut : Shea Sugar Body Scrub works wonderful to reveal fabulous new skin. Try using this sugar scrub once a week or when necessary.
Nivea: Touch of Cashmere Body Wash has Hydra IQ that helps the skin to maintain moisture. More moisture softer skin. Use this body wash for some months and watch your skin transform.


Nivea: Essentially Enriched Daily Lotion is great to combine with the body wash. I love this lotion because its perfect. The lotion s not too greasy and not to watery. Your skin will be hydrated and shine with health.




Yes to: cucumbers products are great for the face. Yes To  has a trio package that gives you a nice sample of the cucumber skin care line. I find these products to be refreshing and give my face just the right amount of moisture without feeling greasy.



Alba Botanica: Pineapple Enzyme Facial Cleanser is one of the best alpha hydroxy cleansers. You get a nice tingle with great results. Your skin will start to transform within a week. Use this product if you hate scrubbing with products like St. Ives Apricot Scrub. This cleanser is guaranteed to reveal new  skin.





Shea Moisture...Perfect for Natural Hair!





A year ago while waiting for my nephew to be born I cut off my locks. Eleven years of beautiful long locks I cut off to have a new beginning. I never really knew what type of texture of hair I had until I cut my hair. I found out my hair is a soft and curly texture. The problem with my hair is the dryness and the out of control frizzing. I have tried so many product within my year of hair growth. Two months ago I was in Target looking for some new hair care products. There was a sale on Shea Moisture products. I decide to get all the products for thick curly hair. I took all the product home and used them the next day. I must say I think I've found a winner! Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie will give your hair defined curls with shine. The Hold and Shine Moisture Mist keeps away the frizzies. Im now happy to say I love my curly fro...thanks to Shea Moisture. Their products are all natural, affordable, and work great on natural hair. Look for Shea Moisture Products in Target.

Tuesday, June 5, 2012

In transition of abuse

Dear Mamas,

It's been almost a year since my last post on my blog. I am in transition of a former life I once knew. My therapist told me to write and so I will do this for healing...

Abuse...It comes in many forms and from different people. Many times it comes from a person you love. Abuse can be very settle and sometimes very disturbing. As a child abuse can be learned to accept as a way a life. Patterns of shutting down and accepting abuse are learned early. I never really thought that for my self until I went into therapy. Anytime abuse came my way in my relationship I would be quiet and shut down. After coming out of an abusive relationship I often wondered did I mess up my life. When your in love you make bad choices that can affect your life in the future. I'm not ashamed to talk about my abuse. I'm not ashamed to say I learn to accept this behaviour as a child. I don't blame or point the finger at the abuser and I damn for sure don't say its my fault. No one deserves to be abused. Most women that get in abusive relationships never think their life would consist of punches or being verbally demeaned everyday. I received a lot of verbal abuse that at times can hurt way more than a hit. Verbal abuse can get in your mind and destroy you. When I write to you  I hope it will help another person that may be in abusive relationship. I hope I can help the abuser that doesn't know how to stop hurting others. My transition has been one of the hardest things I ever experienced in my life. I lost a lot of people and things in my life. I know at the end of all of this I will gain my power back. You can give up your power to another person and fold up in a corner and die. I choose to live and never allow no one in my life to destroy me with fists or words. One great decision can diminish a million bad choices.

So Blaque Beauty Mama is back...and I have a story to tell.

                                                                                                                      
                                                                                                                   Sincerely,
                                                                                                               A woman in transition

Friday, January 6, 2012

NO MORE DRAMA, Loving ME!!!

Hey Mamas,

I will first say ...hate it or love it you might not like what I have to say or the things I do. Regardless of my critics I can say I'm truly happy. Eleven years of tears and uncertainty of who I am and was the man I  truly loved the one for me I woke up. I feel like I woke up out of a long nightmare that was called my life. Summer of 2010 I had wanted change but didn't have the confidence nor the will to change and fight for my life. November 2010...I had my birthday and change was heavy on my heart. I deserve better I thought to myself. After a some more crazy incidents in my life with people that so called were suppose to care and love me, I decided enough was enough! A truly special woman(Ariel) one night called me on the phone and gave me the strength to move forward. November 16th was a mark of my independence and freedom.


     I loved a man for many years and only wanted to please him. Nothing is wrong with loving your man but when you lose your self in the process something is very wrong. Who is Heather I asked myself standing in the mirror so many times. Years of abuse can take its toll on your spirit and mind. So after a fight of gaining my independence I have now arrived. I have six boys that count on me to be strong and I will meet their expectations. My new found confidence and strength helped me to go out on dates and feel great with the male energy around me. I hope to one day find true love and be happily ever after but for now I'm so good with being single.

In my new found freedom I got the shock of my life. At my sonogram just recently I was told I'm having a baby girl. I cried and laughed during my sonogram. Finally my baby girl is within me. She came because I changed. No more circles I have learned my lesson. She is within me because The Creator saw I was ready for her and my situation is safe. I look forward to seeing her and giving her all my wisdom. My little queen among many little soldiers that will love her dearly. I'm happy...finally and I deserve every moment of it. No more drama in my life! Peace of mind is golden.


Peace Mamas...(Healing7)

      

Monday, November 21, 2011

Daddy's Girl...

    A father can put his daughter up on his shoulders and show her the world...


     I was and still am "A Daddy's Girl" and for good reason. At a young age we watch our fathers to see what we want in a man. We watch them take care of the house hold and how they treat our mothers. Bad and good can be shown but we accept it because as a child you only know what you see and hear to be true.

My life has taken a big change. Coming out of a very long and painful relationship can be difficult. Your trust in men can become very hard to do. I view men differently for right now as I heal. You hold up a shield not wanting to get hurt or really to interact with the opposite sex. In all this change, pain, and healing my father gives me hope. I watched my father step in my life and my sons to show me what I should have in a man. A man protects and takes care of his family. He communicates and no matter how late it is he keeps his word. I will not accept anything less than what my father has shown me. I don't think I'm fully restored in men but my father and sons are helping me in that area. My focus is to make my sons into men that have integrity and respect. The world is so lacking good men. So I look into all my son's eyes with hope of the future.


-PEACE (Healing7)

Saturday, October 29, 2011

Healing...

Hey, Hello, I'm back...

Yes, I took a hiatus. Sorry I was gone for so long. My birthday is coming soon and since my last birthday my life has totally changed. I have lost close friends and family members out of my life. My views on many issues and beliefs have changed. The changes in my life hurt but its helping me to heal. I was talking to my mother and she gave me some things to think about. Its always wise to speak to older women and receive wisdom. I have done a lot of reflecting on my life and understand each day has to be taken with thought and care. Sometimes we allow our minds, hearts, spirits to be trapped in box not allowing ourselves to be free. We have so much to learn and different levels of of life to embark on. Life being contained in a box is scary. In my process of healing I chose to come out of the conforming walls. I choose not to be suppressed by anybody or anything. Happiness is what we all search for and I'm on the quest of finding it. I think I will be happy for my birthday to come with a renewed heart and spirit. So much has changed but for the good. Healing is a process and I'm getting better with each day.


-Peace Mamas

Thursday, August 11, 2011

The Nail Quickie ...


    In the life of a mommy on the go you want to look nice while doing it all. Most times I focus on my hair and face looking the most appropriate to get through the day. My nails are last because I feel like I never really have enough time for them to dry. I started making sure I give my self a pedicure once a week, but I still neglected my hands. I was at Walgreens with my sister buying makeup and we started looking at nail polish. Wet n Wild has been my favorite brand of nail polish but I never found them to make nail polish that dries fast. I looking in the Wet n Wild  section and see their FAST DRY nail polish. They have an array of bold colors with corky name like "Grey's Anatomy","Everybody Loves Redmond", and "Sage in The City". I got "Everybody loves Redmond" and I love the tomato bright red color. The nail polish is only $1.99 and you can get the clear top coat paired with another color at Walgreens for $1.99. I finally took time to paint my nails and toes and guess what....Wet n Wild Fast Dry is wonderful! The first coat of nail polish dried in about 60 seconds and the second coat dried just as fast. I was able to paint my nails and toes in under 15 minutes. I give this product 3 stars for fabulous mommies on the go. Try it you will love it!

BB Mama's Health & Beauty Issue



 Hey Mamas!

 Life is for the living and we must continue to grow and learn. On my journey of life I'm choosing to make healthy changes. As I once heard "We don't live to eat ...we eat to live." Healthy eating is vital for us to survive and maintain balance. I have found it actually easy to start making steps to eat healthier and have fun preparing meals. I want to share with you my journey and keep you updated with product reviews, healthy tips and meal plans. Now I wouldn't be "Beauty Mama" without having some fun reviews. Yes, I have some great products for you to run and buy! I have tried some great beauty products and the reviews will be featured in this issue. I know it's been a little hiatus but that's life. Hello again I hope you still like & love my blog.


-Peace & Abundance
  HEV (BB Mama)

Friday, June 17, 2011

The Real Rose Colored Glasses...

Yesterday I saw this commercial about HD Aviators. The commercial shows you how the glasses enhance the colors and make images clearer. Now at first I'm thinking wow. Then I'm thinking why the hell does reality need to be enhanced. You go outside the sky is blue, the sun is yellow, and the grass is green. Why do we need to see colors enhanced that are part of the nature elements of life? So when we take off the glasses after wearing them for 20 minutes to an hour... reality will set in that this world is too dull in color.

     We want our television watching, music, DVDs, and Internet service in HD. Now we must look at real life in HD because life isn't satisfying any more. Technology has invaded our lives in every way we can imagine and we love it. Many of us live our lives with our "Rose Colored Glasses" on. We would rather not deal with the truths of many things and people. Now we have real life  rose colored glasses to go with a mind set of people. Reality is sad and boring... lets enhance it to make it fun and bright. Gods creation is wonderful its the one true thing that needs not to be enhanced. Lets all take off the rosy glasses and breathe a little reality in. Seek truth in everything and face real life...it makes you stronger.

Monday, June 13, 2011

Dear Old Hev,...

Growing is always needed whether it be physical or spiritual growth. Yesterday I heard a song by Nicki Minaj  from her album Pink Friday called "Dear Old Nicki". As I listened to the song it was about her talking to her old self wanting her to come back but knowing she has changed and Old Nicki wont be coming back. Today I can relate to that song and there is a lot I can say to Old Hev.


Dear Old Hev,

         You will never be forgotten because you will always be apart of me. Hev you did good finding your way and ignoring all the naysayers. When nobody was your friend and you were avoided by others you kept your head up. You still pursued to love Christ in spite of adversity. I still admire your strength. You had one little boy that's now seven. Look at you Hev...you thought you couldn't be a good mother. Jasiyah, your oldest he is doing fine. You taught him well in the ways of The Lord. Now he is teaching his little brothers. Things you prayed to happen are existing. God has heard all of your prayers. Your parents came through and understand you will be ok. I don't prove my self to nobody no more...the fight is over. Your sisters and friends may not be the same circle but, all are well. I know you believed in keeping everyone together but, your job is done now. The long locks are a now a short fro. I know you loved the long hair but it had to go. No more flowers in the hair.I have matured in fashion and refined my look. My spirit has grown and the name has changed. I'm more humble but confidence remains to grow. I look for you sometimes and I see you in passing. I just wanted you to know I miss you . I'm moving on but your not forgotten. I'll never say good bye ...but always later.


-HH...Peace

Saturday, May 7, 2011

Revisiting The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill

Thirteen years ago Lauryn Hill's album The Miseducation of LAURYN HILL came out and hit the radio waves hard. Now 2011 I'm in the van with my sons listening to her album. Wow, its been a minute but I remember every song and memorized every verse. Lauryn brought something new to the table while most female rappers talked about sex, money, and designer clothes. She was a breath of fresh air for a young girl like me. I needed  a better influence than Lil Kim an Foxy Brown. When Doo Wop(That Thing) song came out it made me think. I was in the car with my best friend and her mother. "Lauryn's voice came out powerful through speakers saying " It's silly when girls sell their soul because it's in
Look at where you be in hair weaves like Europeans
Fake nails done by Koreans,Come again...."


She spoke to her people wanting more for them. Now as a woman I revisit her words, her songs, and her life during this time. I listen to her music and my sons ask questions about the things she may say and I understand.  Lauryn songs were of the trials and tribulations she was living and she shared them with the masses. She had her part in the process of me wanting to change. Her words stuck with me and now I can say I have stood the test of time to see my change.Her album is timeless...a classic that now my sons can enjoy.

Friday, April 29, 2011

Coming Soon! Hev Hayes: "The Wardrobe Blazer"



If you don't know by now I love fashion. My first love has always been the art of clothes.
I wear many hats in the beauty field but wardrobe is my favorite. My friends and family are always asking me for help with their wardrobe and I love it.Now I have the opportunity to help many others find their personal style. My new column HEV HAYES: The Wardrobe Blazer will be featured in Liberated Strands Magazine.  I will be answering all wardrobe related questions such as...

What can I wear with white skinny jeans?

How can I define my waist line without wearing a belt?

I'm short but want to wear long skirts...what should I do?

Can you wear boots in the spring and summer?


Does this peak your interest?...  Men and women can ask me questions and I will respond with my expert experience in fashion.You can send me pictures of your outfit, shoes, suit, bag, etc that you need help with hooking up. I will respond with pictures and also places to find  great deals to create your look.

Email me at WardrobeBlazer@gmail.com 

Make sure to include your first name and the area you live in. I know people read my blog in other countries and would like to ask questions. Feel free to email me your wardrobe questions. Thank you for your support!...

-Peace

Wednesday, March 30, 2011

Pattern Play

Pattern Play
Pattern Play by blaquestyle featuring platform stiletto heels

Mix and Match ...having fun

"The Big Chop!" Letting it all go...

   Its taken a month to write this...

      I was waiting for the words to come out to express how I feel. I've been distracted by so many things in life and the days go quick. Looking inside a plastic grocery bag I see my locks. My long beautiful locks are gone. It took a process to cut my hair. I wanted to cut it but never had the guts to do it. The vanity of long hair and all the glory that comes with it prevented me from chopping it off. I remember standing in the mirror piece by piece cutting and unwinding my locks. While everyone was sleep. I took time by my self to let go. Let go of negative energy and move on. Time for change...10yrs I have had my locks and now they were bagged away in plastic. Locked away energy and memories they hold. At the time of cutting my hair I didn't cry until it was finished. I never got to see my true curl pattern as an adult. I washed my hair and combed it. I looked at my self again in the mirror. I ran my fingers through my hair and touched my wet curls. I felt a release... I felt free.My younger sons will only know me with short hair for now. My oldest son told me he loves me no matter how I have my hair.There are days I miss my long hair and there are days I don't. Its been a month but it feels like a year. I'm learning to love everything about me. My hair doesn't define my beauty...my spirit makes me who I am.

My journey continues to go as I learn to love and understand me.

-Peace...dedicated 2 her (Not lost but found)