Dominican Hair Product Review: BPT Wheat Germ

I bought BPT Wheat Germ back in January and have used it maybe once or twice throughout last winter while rollersetting.  For the past month or so I have been using BPT weekly and so far my curly fro is loving it. I don’t remember what I thought about BPT Wheat Germ when I tried it the first few times, (I guess at the time silicon mix stole the show) but this time around I have to say I’m impressed.

At first I was not sure how to categorize BPT Wheat Germ, either as a protein or deep moisture conditioner since I feel it provides me with both. Even though it says vegetable protein conditioning cream, the ultra softness kind of throws me off a bit.

So far I feel that with my hair BPT Wheat Germ acts like a mild protein conditioner, while also providing me with adequate moisture (just like the label says). Since I have been using this weekly I find that my hair sheds a lot less than usual and my hair feels stronger too. My hair loves protein and with all the cowashing I have been doing on a weekly basis (hello hydration), BPT helps keep my moisture and protein levels in check. So I don’t think using BPT weekly on my hair will hurt in terms of protein overload.

BPT has a light sweet scent, is very creamy and detangling is a breeze which I really need especially now with my curly fro in full force. To help keep my protein/moisture in balance I usually always follow up BPT with a moisturizing conditioner even though I’m tempted not to, since my hair is so incredibly soft after rinsing.

I have a few deep conditioners around I’m almost done with so I decided to mix a few. This time I used Queen Helene’s cholesterol, my very first deep conditioner when I began my hair journey a year ago, and La Bomba a Dominican product. This Combination was amazing and left my Curly fro soft and moisturized.

I have been experimenting with my own shampoo concoctions recently and right now I’m loving Dr. Bronner’s. The shampoo I have been using, Hair One Sulfate free, tends to cause build up so I have been interchanging them every now and then.

 I prefer Dr. Bronner’s lavender castile soap over the orange since I notice the orange tends to dry my hair out a bit.  It’s very simple just 2-3 cups of water and about 15 drops of Dr. Bronner’s soap and you instantly have your homemade shampoo. There are many recipes online which you can add all sorts of oils to your Dr. Bronner’s shampoo mix. If interested CHECK this video out.

This was my hair after it was all said and done, BPT Wheat germ, and the deep conditioner combo I did. This was right before the fourth of july weekend and that major heat wave that hit earlier this month in NYC, so I decided to rollerset that day and use Agadir’s Argan oil as a leave in.

 So instead of using lacio lacio as usual, I used my Agadir Argan oil treatment as a leave in and went on to rollerset my hair.

Right before I went into the hair dryer I lightly sprayed my hair with Agadir Argan oil Spray Treatment….

 

and lightly sprayed my hair right after. This was my hair after the rollersets, very soft, silky and bouncy hair. My hair reacted nicely to Agadir’s oil and may incorporate it into my rollerset regimen regularly this coming winter.

 Since that was the time that heat wave struck NYC I decided to take advantage and do protective styles. I just did a side bun with a cute flower I’ve had for years I bought at Claire’s. Simple yet protected hair.

For the past two weeks or so I have been sporting my fro everyday and so far I have my good times and bad times…

This is what I have been working with these past two weeks. Trying to maintain moisture for my curly fro has been an issue for me but I have discovered aloe vera gel works to make a little difference. I also have been trying to perfect a daily spritz but I been frustrated with that so far because nothing seems to work. I tried glycerin, conditioners and oils and so far my hair soaks up all the moisture. The front of my curly fro is OK but the back feels like mini Brillo pads which are hard to untangle. So what I have been doing is moisturizing with ORS olive oil in the jar and sealing with Castor oil, which I feel with this weather is not helping seal in moisture. I ‘m going to buy Jojoba oil and see how it works for sealing soon as I run out of castor oil. I also have been braiding my hair right after washing that way it won’t get so dried out. This helps me manage my hair much better when it dries as opposed to just wash n go. Hello hydration is a great conditioner I’m on my second bottle and like BPT, Hello Hydration helps detangle my hair nicely during co washes. I like BPT and so far it fits in nicely with my current curly fro regimen which has been:

• Co-washing 2-3x a week ( Hello Hydration ) or Mane n’ Tail (to balance protein, when needed)
• BPT Wheat Germ 1x week ( mild protein )
• Shampoo with Dr. Bronner’s Castile Soap
• Nacidt Olive oil/ La bomba ( deep conditioning ) 1x a week with heat for 15 mins
• CHI keratin mist ( love this! I use it every other day after co washing )
• Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse ( bi-weekly )
• Moisturizing Daily with ORS olive oil in the jar.
• Sealing daily with Castor oil
• Sometimes I use a spritz sometimes I don’t my next try may be just aloe and water
• Desert of Lily 99% aloe vera gel to style and keep curls defined a bit

 Bpt works very well for both my curly hair and also straight rollerset hair. Provides enough moisture and makes my hair feel very strong too. Overall it’s a learning experience trying to master the very different textures my hair tends to transform itself into. By my next hair post I should already have my results for my Waist Length Challenge.

I’m excited to see my results and the rest of the ladies.

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Took Some Time Along The Way…..

I have come across many great and entertaining blogs and thought I should share by far my most favorite, informative, witty and just plain mundane blogs I enjoy.

Passion.Fruit

This is the fantastic artist Brianna McCarthy’s work. Her art is so beautiful and amazing it leaves me speechless at times. She captures the versatile beauty each woman owns in her unique way. Recently someone did a tattoo of one of her pieces beautifully lasting forever. You will find many gorgeous faces she captures on her blog, check out the beautiful faces you will be left mesmerized.

xpinkxx

This blog is one of my most favorite. I’m always anticipating a new post since she is so raw, keeps it real and her humor is so me. She is very versatile with her beauty tips, she travels many places while documenting her love for food and her who what wear segments are my favorite. xpinkxx also has great recipes, reviews and did I mention her love for food??  This is another everything blog I love with a super edge and unique style.

Woman of Colour

Patricia’s Blog highlights some very fascinating artists from all walks of life.

 The interviews lead you to many great artists work, their backgrounds and inspiration. An artist herself, she features beautiful jewelry pieces she makes, while also working on a pair of flats she is hand painting. Model inspiration of the moment, beauty tips, and happenings of the moment all meets in one blog. All in all you can find a little bit of motivation and art in everything that catches her mind.

Mari’s Cakes

This is not just any bouquet but a cupcake bouquet! Can you believe it? This is simply gorgeous especially for a person who has a major sweet tooth problem like me. My most favorite place in the world is a Caribbean Dominican bakery. The frosting on a fresh Dominican cake is like none other and I can truly tell you that by far no other cake in the world compares for me. Mari’s cakes is a sweet heaven with all things sweet. Here you will find recipes for shakes, salads, marmalade, cupcakes and basically all the things I loved while growing up. She also features full recipes with photos in both english and spanish! So you can make everything she features step by step.

Music is the New black

This is where you will find the latest and greatest in music. Every time I’m in the mood to cook and listen to music I head over to this blog and just play the videos. Free downloads and great video picks, this is my musical haven when I can sneak me in some well deserved down time.

Diminuta Diminuta

A very lovely blog I really enjoy. Every time I visit Diminuta Diminuta I feel like I’m taken back in time. Fashion, books and her exciting new move and my most favorite baked goods, Diminuta Diminuta simply captures the moment as if you were there.

La La’s Random Beauty Blog

This is perhaps the most precise and my most favorite beauty product blog. Dominichulinda reviews many common products from hair, skin and makeup tutorial giving you a straight to the point recommendation. I treat this blog like an encyclopedia. Whenever I’m curious about a product I’m sure to find it here.

moptopmaven

I believe I have mentioned Mop Top Maven’s blog before and consider it the everything artistic, beautiful and inspiring blog. This is truly a very worth while blog to visit with an array of tasty recipes, clothes, beauty tips and so much more.

Comfortable in my Natural State

Another Great artist whose work is simply gorgeous and meaningful. This blog gives you a lot to think about with some of the images and artists this blog features. Her Locs are growing amazingly beautiful and healthy so check out her hair journey as well as her works of art on etsy which are truly one of a kind experiences.

Last but not least my favorite quick go to blogs…

A day in the life of a curly Gurly

Funny and cute blog documenting her hair journey. Tiff is super funny and takes her life day by day curls and all.

Citrine’s Blog

Great lipgloss and drugstore makeup reviews with a side of humor. Love this blog when in need of a new gloss.

~~There are so many more blogs I love Stay tuned for more!~~

Nubia’s Nonsense

Here you will find unique one of a kind fashion, music, and gorgeous headbands you can purchase here>>>
gla.Mar.ous 

Diva Style

Diva style is a blog for the woman who is not afraid to decorate on her own or just needs some inspiration from this very talented interior designer. So if you are in the mood to change things around at home head over to Diva Style for some great ideas.

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Tag, Tag, Now You’re It! Blog Award

I have been nominated for an award by the beautiful Beverly from A full Beat

Here are her questions:

1. What is your all time favorite food???

Ceviche de camarones

2. Name a t.v. show you are hooked on

Right now I’m watching Dead Like Me on fancast, came out in 2003 and did not get a chance to get into it back then so now thanks to the internet I can watch it whenever I want.

3. What is your favorite magazine??

I don’t really have a favorite magazine . Maybe the ones I get every month from my health food store called healthy living or something.

4. How many siblings do you have???

A brother and a sister

5. what is your favorite color??

Blue

6. What is one thing people don’t know about you and would never guess by looking at you?

I’m deeply infatuated with all things natural, ancient, forgotten.

7. 3 things you can’t live without

-true knowledge of my true self

-Peace

-Concealer

8. can you walk in high heels, if so do you wear them everyday

I have a mean walk in heels but don’t wear them everyday because it’s starting to look impractical for me. I love to walk long distances so really it does not work for me on a daily basis.

The rules


Put the award on your blog.

Pass the award along to 12 positive & creative bloggers.

Link the chosen ones within your post. In no type of order

I pass this on to my faves so far…

1. Beauty Logic 
2.  A Beauty with Brains
3. platanos, mangoes and me
4. Natural Hair Nerd
5. Miss Cindia
6. Sencillamente Kyra
7. Style Remixx
8. Beauty Fashion Meli

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Aubrey Organics facial skin care review

For a very long time now I have been looking into limiting the harsh chemicals some beauty products I use have especially the ones I tend to use on a daily basis like cleansers and moisturizers. So this past winter I went out and purchased a few Aubrey Organics products starting off with their Rose hip ( Rosa Mosqueta ) moisturizer for dry skin.

When I first tried this I was surprised to see how thick this moisturizer was especially for a facial moisturizer. It was winter and with all the artificial heat my skin was exposed to I thought the extra boost in moisture would not hurt. I paid $15 for a 4oz bottle at my local natural food store. I really love how creamy this moisturizer is and how it instantly absorbed into my skin with a light, soft and sweet scent. Unfortunately soon after, I started breaking out and was dealing with major breakouts. Knowing my skin hardly breaks out I immediately stopped using it. I have read that rose hip tends to be comedogenic meaning that it tends to clog pores especially for acne prone oily skin types, so I suppose that may have been one of the reasons why I may have reacted to it.

 Despite my not so well experience with the moisturizer I decided to still give Aubrey organics another try this time using their Sea Buckthorn facial cleanser. I purchased this in combination dry skin since at the time I could not figure out my skin type which was kind of dry but then oily if that even makes sense. Like the rose hip moisturizer this cleanser is also very thick and creamy. At first I was a bit wary of a creamy cleanser because I tend to have a better experience with foam or gel cleansers. Once again I noticed that my face was breaking out along the hair line so after 2 weeks I stopped using it. This cleanser did a decent job at taking off my makeup on those light makeup days. This also took off most of my mascaras, however eyeshadow with primer would not come off as easily, so I would use olive oil first to wipe off most of the eyeshadow then use the cleanser. This is a very nice cleanser for those who wear light to moderate makeup. This cleanser is too creamy for my liking and skin type but if your skin is very dry this can be an ideal cleanser for you.

So last month after I ran out of my Dickinson’s toner I decided to purchase Aubrey’s Blue Green Algae Toner for combination oily skin and their sunscreen. So far I like this toner, no breakouts at all and my skin seems to be back to normal. I don’t see any radical or spectacular difference though. I would buy it again but the price is a bit steep for a toner ($8) that I can get for a cheaper price and basically provide me with the same results. So once I run out of Aubrey’s Blue Green Algae toner I will just go back to Dickinson’s toner or if I’m brave enough will finally make my homemade toner. We shall see.

I finally believe I figured out what the problem was with my skin and both the moisturizer and cleanser. I believe the coconut fatty acid base most of Aubrey Organics products are made up of is just too thick for my skin type which basically tends to be oily.

I did not think too much about the coconut fatty acid base but then realized that the sunscreen did not break me out, so I compared the ingredients and noticed that the sunscreen did not have the coconut fatty acid base like the cleanser and moisturizer did.

 This sunscreen is SPF 20 and is ideal for both the face and body and I’m really loving this. So far It does not break me out nor does it contain the coconut fatty acid base my skin tends to dislike.  Usually throughout the years I would go without sunscreen and would burn and get really red (I have the sun spots on my face to prove it), but with this sunscreen I got a real nice tan and no redness or burning feeling at all. I have tried this on my bare face and over light makeup and it absorbs quickly. However if you get heavy handed with it can get white at times. It has no scent I could capture and it almost feels like a moisturizer.

This is what most of the products looked like. Very thick and creamy, except for the sunscreen it’s not as thick and tends to have a watery consistency as well.

Overall I really like Aubrey Organics and will continue to try their products. Right now I’m curious about their eye cream and of course hair conditioners. The problem with my skin and Aubrey’s products is perhaps I just couldn’t quite figure out my skin type at the time and/or the coconut fatty acid base most of Aubrey’s products are made up of is just too thick for my skin type. I have been using the sunscreen almost daily and no breakouts at all so I’m sure it was the coconut fatty acid base breaking me out in which the sunscreen does not contain. I will give the Rose Hip moisturizer to my mom since she has “mature” skin and her skin tends to be dry at times. The cleanser will also be donated to her since it tends to be way too creamy for my liking and see how well it works out for her. So basically I’m back to square one in terms of my search for a truly natural skin care regimen. I’ll just stick with my oil of olay facial cleanser until I figure something out.

I was in no way compensated for this review. All products were bought and paid by me.

 Check out Aubrey’s dictionary of Common terms and find out what most of their products are made up of.

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Juicing: Carrots and Apples

It’s been a while since I have used my handy little juicer and my favorite book I like to use with it for reference. So this morning after browsing through my book I decided to make a juice with some handy fruits and vegetables. I had a few carrots and apples around and thought why not….

My boyfriend’s grandmother gave this juicer to me a couple of years ago and I tell you I have made so many juices with this little old juicer and not to mention all the traveling it has been through. Juicing is a great way for you to get all the vitamins and minerals fruits and veggies can provide especially if you tend to be a picky eater and don’t like to eat fruits and vegetables straight up.

Juicing is very simple just choose what kind of juice you want to make, all vegetable based, all fruit, or mix them up. You decide what you want to make and go from there. The recipes are endless and any juice can expose you to other types of vegetables you may have not liked or did not know how to use. In my case for example, beets is a vegetable I don’t really enjoy in my salads but when I make a beet, apple and pear juice the taste is not so unpleasant. Simply passing a slice of apple into your juicer can instantly give any juice a sweet and tasty kick.

My juicer has a side where it separates the fruit and vegetable’s skin and dispenses the juice on the other side. Depending on the fruit, sometimes I like to take the pulp and make a face mask out of it either adding on more nourishing ingredients to it or simply alone.

Carrots are rich in vitamin A, K, C as well as in many minerals such as phosphorus, magnesium and potassium. All essential nutrients for a healthy immune system. Carrots also contain antioxidants vital for healthy glowing skin as well as maintaining healthy eyesight. Apples are also very tasty and healthy. Juicing apples is a great way to naturally sweeten  any juice you make. Like I mentioned if you are making a juice and it tastes rather bitter an apple always saves the day.

Apples are also very nutritious and it is said that raw apple juice is great for those who suffer with asthma. There are many great benefits to apples and they have been attributed with treating cancer sufferers as well as diabetics while also helping lower harmful cholesterol levels. The skin of the apple is said to be very healthy packing on more vitamins, minerals and antioxidants than the inside of the apple itself. ( just beware of the wax most apples and fruits in general are covered with.)

-Nice, sweet, simple and very cooling natural juice you can enjoy anytime-

All in all any fruit and vegetable can provide you with many nutrients and you can create countless of recipes for yourself. Juicers range in many sizes and prices so make sure you shop around for the best one that suits your need and budget.

I got this juicing book full of recipes for 25 cents at some random yard sale.

You can find it HERE if interested.

There are many suggested recipes for all types of ailments. Here are a few of my favorite I have tried:

Cellulite

2 apples seeded

1 pear

Body Cleanser

1/2 Cucumber

1 beet

1/2 apple

4 carrots, greens removed

Migraine

1/4 inch slice of ginger

1/2 cantaloupe

Anemia

3  Beet tops

4-5 carrots

1/2 green pepper

1/2 apple, seeded

Diarrhea

1/4 head cabbage

2 tomatoes

Hair Growth

2 dark green lettuce leaves

handful of alfalfa sprouts

4-5 carrots

Skin

2 slices of pineapple with skin

1/2 cucumber

1/2 apple seeded

Menopausal symptoms

1 Kale leaf

1 collard leaf

handful parsley

1 stalk of celery

1 carrot

1/2 red pepper

1 tomato

1 broccoli floweret

Celery stalk for garnish

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Tag You’re it! Yeah I have been tagged…

Now I’m finally an official blogger! I have been tagged by the lovely It’s me roxy, lovely blog by the way check it out. So here goes……

How did you first get interested in fashion?

My mother. In the 80’s when she would get ready to go out I was mesmerized by all the makeup, big hair, mini skirts and the neon.

How do you describe the fashion scene in your city compared to other cities ?

I’m not seeing much individuality in NYC anymore. It’s kind of everyone is following the same trend. NYC used to be like Tokyo very expressive and just plain out there. You see that still but very seldom.

Favorite designers and places to shop?

Tracy Reese is my favorite. I also love Oscar de la Renta’s pieces. I like to hit up Rainbow ( Brooklyn’s version of forever21 ) lol, joyce leslie, pretty girl and if I have the extra money I love bebe….

The first thing you look at in another person’s outfit is:

Shoes, handbag and chipped nail polish.

What would you wear for your last day on earth?

White tank top and white linen pants, barefoot.

What can’t you live without?

Besides concealer, my peace and solitude.

Next place you want to travel to:

Many places in Africa especially Morocco. And of course the Island of Anguila.

Picture 1 or Picture 2?

Picture 1 as seen above

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The Magical and Health uses of Essential Oils

Essential oils have been around for ages and used for many purposes throughout the world. Through the process of distillation essential oils are derived from any particular plant providing you with an array of scents and uses. Like colors, each scent has its unique vibration and it is said that the vibration each scent carries is determined by the kind of plant it is, the environment the plant was exposed to and other factors giving the essential oil its many unique qualities.

The part of the brain associated with scent is the limbic system. The oldest system of the brain and a very intricate, precise system that governs your moods and emotions. Ever smelled something that instantly takes your feelings back in time? Well, that’s the limbic system at work. Sex, anger, fear and many emotions are governed by the limbic system and that’s where aromatherapy plays it’s role. Aromatherapy is a form of therapeutic medicine using essential oils to help deal with not only emotional but health issues as well.

Essential oils can be used for many things concerning beauty. You can use essential oils in facials, as a perfume, and in many of your hair treatments. If you have a stubborn pimple, dabbing a little bit of tea tree oil will help minimize it’s size as well as kill the bacteria that formed it in the first place. Tea tree oil is also great for those who deal with dandruff, while garlic oil not only kills bacteria, but also helps with hair growth as well. Basically there are many types of oils great for your hair and skin needs.

Essential oils can also be used to enhance your spiritual power by way of your desired intent. Essential oils are used in spiritual baths, candles and can be worn as a scent to enhance you intent and the oils magical qualities.

However before you head out and get all oil crazy it is important that you understand that essential oils are pure and highly concentrated so contact with direct skin can be very irritating. This is where a carrier oil comes in.

A carrier oil is safe enough to use directly on the skin and it’s role is to help dilute the essential oil since it’s so concentrated. There are many types of carrier oils and most are vegetable based although there are known animal oils such as emu oil. Carrier oils are generally odorless and many have countless uses with an array of benefits for the skin and hair. Some carrier oils you can use are sweet almond oil, jojoba oil, avocado oil, rose hip oil and many more. Essential oils can be a great way for you to create your own signature scent while at the same time benefiting from it’s therapeutic qualities. In terms of blending your oils, you want to take into consideration how potent you want your scent to be as well as some basic understanding of notes.

The Notes

-Top Notes-

ex. Cinnamon, Orange, Eucalyptus

The majority of essential oils are classified as top notes. Top notes evaporate fast. They are fresh and uplifting in nature.

-Middle Notes-

ex.Chamomile, Rosemary, Lavender

Middle notes normally give that extra punch to the blend and have a balancing effect.

They are very soft in nature.

-Base Notes-
ex. Clove, Jasmine, Myrrh

Base notes are very heavy, the scent is very solid, and will linger for a long time. These fragrances are very intense, rich and relaxing in nature.

So here are a few oils I have been collecting along the way and some of the things I have learned about them:

Patchouli

I can not tolerate not even one drop of this oil. It just drives me insane and simply can not work with it no matter how much I try. Despite the smell I can’t stand, Patchouli has many great medicinal qualities especially for the skin. Patchouli is very popular with treating depression and emotional problems. It helps lift your mood while at the same time serving it’s purpose as an aphrodisiac. So if you are dealing with impotency and/or depression patchouli is the way to go.  Patchouli is also a fungicide helping eliminate fungus such as athletes foot, jock itch or any fungus in general. Patchouli also helps regenerate the skin cells and promotes healing and fading of scars. Eczema as well as psoriasis, sores and the like can be treated with patchouli.

Patchouli is a great grounding oil helping your mind to calm and ground itself. It is also known as an attraction oil  used to attract prosperity, money, love etc as well as help calm an argumentative person.

Black Pepper

I went out on the hunt for this oil mostly for it’s magical uses, however this oil has an array of great medicinal benefits especially for those dealing with arthritis and digestive issues. Black pepper stimulates not only the digestive system but also stimulates circulation helping rid the body of harmful toxins. Black pepper is also antibacterial and antioxidant. Helps cure infections of the mouth, sores as well as harmful bacteria living throughout the digestive tract. Black pepper also plays a role in anti aging by protecting cells from free radical damage while also repairing them at the same time, thus improving the onset of wrinkles. In magical uses black pepper is popular with increasing courage and alertness. Also it is a great oil to use for protection against negative energy like the evil eye etc.

lavender Oil

This oil is my favorite and I use it a lot too. It really helps calm me and gives me this airy feeling. I also like to use it in my hair and body scrub concoctions since the scent lingers for a very long time. Lavender oil is both antibacterial and antifungal making it ideal for preserving my homemade beauty mixes. Like patchouli, lavender oil also treats depression, minus the strong scent. It treats all types of sadness, anxiety, headaches and also helps calm and center your mind and thoughts. For insomniacs lavender oil can be a great start to help you fall asleep since it is such a calming oil. Beauty wise, lavender oil works against wrinkles, pimples, psoriasis as well as providing pain relief when used in massages of joints etc. For magical purposes Lavender oil promotes peace and tranquility in the home. Also if worn as a scent it promotes peace of mind and treats all types of emotional sadness.

Ginger Oil

I have not yet ventured into using ginger oil but I’m very familiar with the fascinating medicinal properties ginger itself has. I love ginger tea with honey especially if I feel my Sinuses are abut to act up. If I’m feeling car sick or just have a stomach ache I usually go for a Ginger tea. Also when feeling my stomach upset I reach for ginger ale soda and it usually does the trick. Basically ginger is great to help fight the flu as well as with depression, migraines anxiety. Ginger  has also been attributed to treating cancer and when used in a massage oil helps relieve arthritis pain. Ginger also promotes courage and abundance of money when sprinkled on wallet or around your business, basically anywhere you would like money to follow.

Clove Oil

My boyfriend calls this the dental oil because he says it reminds of the dental office. In fact clove oil is used in many dental products to help mask bad breath and also treat painful toothaches temporarily numbing the area. Clove oil is also antimicrobial, antifungal and antiseptic making it ideal for treating all types of fungus such as athletes foot, infections, cuts wounds, acne and even mosquito bites. Clove oil is antiviral making it very useful for respiratory issues (asthma, sinus), boosting the immune system as well as being a great blood purifier. Clove oil is also great with dealing with stress, migraines, headaches and also like lavender oil, calms you down and helps insomniacs with their sleep. Magically clove oil is great for driving away negative energy as well as a great scent to help promote healing and prosperity.

These are just some of the oils I have collected and worked with along the way. There are many recipes online in which you can add some of these oils into your desired concoctions. I’m going to post some great beauty, magical and medicinal recipes you can make yourself. Whether it be for health, prosperity of just plain curiosity essential oils are a great way for you to start venturing into their never ending uses.

Here you can find more info on oils and their wide range of uses:

Helping yourself with magical oils A-Z by Maria Solomon

Organic Facts List of Essential oils

Aroma Web

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Simply Raw: Reversing Diabetes in 30 days

A few months back on a rainy Sunday I came across this amazing documentary, my most favorite genre when it comes to films. Simply Raw: Reversing diabetes in 30 days and is it’s truly one of the most amazing films I have ever come across.

“Simply Raw: Reversing Diabetes in 30 Days is an independent documentary film that chronicles six Americans with diabetes who switch to a diet consisting entirely of vegan, organic, uncooked food in order to reverse disease without pharmaceutical medication. The six are challenged to give up meat, dairy, sugar, alcohol, nicotine, caffeine, soda, junk food, fast food, processed food, packaged food, and even cooked food for 30 days. The film follows each participant’s remarkable journey and captures the medical, physical, and emotional transformations brought on by this radical diet and lifestyle change. We witness moments of struggle, support, and hope as what is revealed, with startling “

It’s amazing to see that the way we eat is literally killing us. Pam, one of the volunteers, an elderly lady featured in the film hits very close to home. She resembles my grandmother a lot and what I really loved about her was her commitment and optimistic outlook. As a child I have always seen my grandmother use Insulin and always heard the conversations about what the doctor said she should & could not eat. Not only that, but my grandmother has a bag full of about 10-18 different medications. Growing up my most favorite thing was roast pork, fried chicken, pork chops and many great, tasty and filling dishes. Although I and the rest of the family would enjoy it I know my grandma sacrificed her health for the sake of tradition and the family’s taste buds.

This film is very fascinating and truly shows you that with proper nutrition one can prevent and even cure oneself of many debilitating diseases. A few of the subjects in this film after about a week or so did not even need insulin or any medication at all. Unfortunately when people live their entire lives with a certain disease they feel like their is nothing out there that can help them. But this film truly challenges that by simply changing your diet. We are truly ignorant of the way our ancestors and many people around the world were accustomed to eating, raw, fresh organic food. We do have that right you know…. it just takes time and dedication. This film inspired me to at the very least incorporate one raw meal a day, right now its just salads and handy fruits. Point is slowly but surely getting yourself used to eating raw, fresh foods.

You can watch the entire film below or at this link HERE.

Simply Raw – Reversing Diabetes in 30 Days
http://mediaservices.myspace.com/services/media/embed.aspx/m=52819573,t=1,mt=video
barns | MySpace Video

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Meet Mark and my very first MAC "haul"

So I finally found a place to keep my Avon Meet Mark eyeshadows and blushes. It’s called snap to it mega palette and it  basically has 2 magnetics strips in which you just snap your shadows and blushes into. I love this blush called bronze glo a beautiful matte brown blush with light shimmers so I purchased 2 more just to have in case they are discontinued. During the winter this blush gives me the most natural beautiful brown glow which helps counteract my uneven skin tone during those dark winter months.  

Blush or eyeshadow sticks to magnet

and there you have it

The snap to it palette cost $8 and fits my 3 favorite Meet mark blushes and eyeshadows.

Left to right, Bronze glo blush, After glo blush, Dragonfly e/s, Heavenly e/s, Golden glo blush

After glo I heard is a close dupe for NARS orgasm. I would not know since I don’t have orgasm, the blush that is. Golden glo is a lighter version of bronze glo and both provide great color pay off with a very light hint of shimmer.

Along with the palette and 2 bronze glow blushes I also purchased Avon’s ergonomic concealer brush. I kind of like it but it’s a little stiff compared to cvs’s brush or my Eco tools one which is my favorite, its a little difficult to work with because it tends to be a bit stiff but for $4 bucks I can’t complain and it’s not the worst concealer brush either.

I also purchased my very first MAC items this past weekend. I have always been curious as to the cult following MAC has and truly have to say their products are pretty dam good. I have been loyal to drugstore brand makeup and the only thing high end (besides clinique) I have ever purchased has been Urban Decay primer potion, but I hate to admit it I’m hooked on MAC.

Girl About Town Lipstick

Desire Lip Glass

Desert Rose  matte powder blush

Love Rush Sheer Tone Powder Blush

Amber lights e/s

Cranberry e/s

Girl About Town is such a gorgeous color for my skin tone. Now that I’m tan and looking like a brown goddess this color is just simply gorgeous on me. However I also have a Revlon lipstick called fuchsia that is identical to girl about town when swatched and worn. I wore Revlon’s on one side of my lips and MAC’S on the other at the same time and I swear you could not tell. I felt stupid I paid about 4 bucks for revlon’s and 14 for MAC. Hey I guess it happens. However the colors may be the same but I liked the staying power of MAC’s lipstick much better. It’s like my lips were stained.

Mac Girl about Town/ Revlon Fuschia

Top: Girl About Town

Bottom: Revlon Fuschia

Desire lipglass

Girl About Town

My favorite combination right now is Love rush powder blush paired with desire lipglass on the lips. Love rush is this beautiful almost plum/red blush that just looks so sophisticated when paired with desire lipglass. I wore this the other night with a simple cat liner look and it truly looked great.

Desire Lip Glass / Revlon Plum Lipstick

Desire lipglass is gorgeous especially when paired with Revlon’s plum lipstick . Which is basically the same just a tad bit lighter than the lipglass but nonetheless they complement each other beautifully.

Desert Rose is this pretty warm pink matte blush that pairs nicely with L’oreal’s juicy lipgloss in cherry on top. Very pretty combination for a simple day look.

And finally I did a quick look using Amber lights and Cranberry

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Peace and Tranquility Through a White Candle

Peace and tranquility are two things many are unfamiliar with considering all the daily hassles and stress one has to deal with on a daily basis.

Trying to maintain a harmonious environment whether it be at home, work or just within yourself in general, can at times be a daunting task. This is where you can start putting to practice the power of your intentions to work in conjunction with candles, colors and of course your mind. White is a color that is heavily associated with peace, tranquility, purification and renewal. However any color can represent this for you. Each color has it’s own vibration and the way you perceive that vibration is unique to you so basically any color should work to help materialize your intent for peace and tranquility.

But for the sake of understanding I will use white for its standard meaning as a color that represents peace and purification. Everyone is familiar with candles in terms of setting a mood. When working with candles you are basically doing the same thing but this time you will focus and gear that mood toward your desired intent.

  Purifying your mind of negative thoughts can be rather liberating. For example, putting yourself down, constantly in conflict with yourself and others, or just simply lacking confidence can be stagnant and non productive energies that exist because usually our negative ways of thinking let them strive and become a part of our daily existence. 

Your intent, visualization and the candle are the three main things you will be focusing on.
Many are truly unaware of the latent powers their mind can have. What your mind puts out into the universe in the form of actions, spoken words and your most intimate thinking can influence your surroundings. Like a magnet the mind pulls all the scattered fragments existing in the universe and creates a reality by way of your thoughts, intentions. That is why it is very important to consider the way one thinks about not only others but most importantly oneself.

If you have belief in the power of your intent you automatically set your energy into positiveness. If however you are doubting that this will help you before you even buy the candle nothing will become of it. Because it is not the candle that will manifest but your thoughts, belief, faith, in yourself and what you are about to do. The real power lives within you. The candle is just a mere tool used to speak, awaken, focus and center your subconscious mind.

When I feel that things in my house are a little shifty, a lot of stress at work or I just need to purify my thoughts I usually grab a white candle. Candles can be a great medium for meditation. This helps you quiet your mind and pay attention to those things that may be causing disturbances in your life. With the rushed lifestyle many tend to live, there is little time to sit and thoroughly think things through which usually leads to unfulfilled decisions time and time again.

There are many ways you can enhance your intent not only by using candles but also essential oils can be a great tool in addition to candles. Essential oils are not merely just limited to aromatherapy. Essential oils actually are a magical system unto themselves as well. One of my favorite Essential oil to use for purification and peace is hands down Lavender oil. Just putting a drop or two into your candle can instantly transform the mood and air in your room.

Lavender oil is pretty much the oil to use when seeking out peace and tranquility. Whether it be for yourself or your environment, Lavender oil by far is my favorite oil for rest and relaxation. Incorporating Lavender oil to your candle or even on yourself as a scent, can help ease stress, tension, headaches, insomnia just simply a great oil to purify and uplift your energy.  Lavender oil has many protective qualities against negative vibrations and situations surrounding you as well.

The point is visualizing your intent for peace and tranquility. Creating an atmosphere of quiet thinking for yourself is important with or without the aid of a candle. Organizing and helping bring your thoughts into manifestation can help you go through things with ease and focused intent.

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