Lipstick Liner: Chats

It's been a long Tuesday with these past days of bad weather and you know the daily twists and turns we endure each day. But I'm not going to complain because I made it through the day maybe a little bumps and bruises not in the figurative speech but heyyy I can still lay in a warm bed and rest. In life we have to be grateful and see the good in everything even when it doesn't seem like it. Because many people may be going through worst and would trade places with you and I in a heartbeat. 

Today I took a step and decided to make light of a situation that lingered for months. Just a few words to someone and a weight was lifted off of my chest. I have held grudges, stopped talking to individuals and things of that nature but it takes too much energy to water a negative situation than to just make light of it and then let it be. Actually when I think of it I took many steps to just smile and speak with individuals that I haven't spoke too starting with my Saturday outing. 

Sometimes when we are transitioning in our lives, when we are stepping into a new journey we don't even realize that the steps necessary to move forward takes looking back and fixing things before proceeding. It's like a hot air ballon you won't float to the top with a lot of baggage weighing the ride down. Your attitude determines your elevation. 

Dear Old Me,

There is a new me that has opened the door to new beginnings. 

Sincerely, 

You can't live here any longer. 

With Love, Lipstick & Laughter, XOXO 

Black History Month: Black is Beautiful

My Black is Beautiful.. Isn't it truly breathtaking to see so many shades of brown and the beauty in our skin tone, the depth of our features, and the road that we have conquered? Lupito Nyong'o is a stunning woman. Have you seen her gracing the red carpets lately??? Her bold hairstyles and fashionable gowns have been in the spotlight, she is setting the new year off right. She has features that I adore, rocking such a low cut shows her true beauty, reminds me of India Arie song I am Not My Hair....

I watched 12 years a slave for the first time this weekend, and I must say that she did an incredible job in her role. She was even adored then despite the difficult times she withstood in the movie. We as women, we as African Americans have endured so much from the beginning of time, and we still have a long way to go in my mind. But, the obstacles and shortcomings of racism and being held as slaves has changed in some ways. I am thankful for freedom. Could you only imagine the half of what our ancestors went through?? Be Grateful!

Lupito Nyong'o is what I call a Woman of MY BROWN CANVAS. Her skin, her hair, and inspiration to many as a woman of color and as a actress breaking into film is undeniable talent.

Photo Cred: NecoleB

Testing..1..2..3: Natural Hair

Testing, Testing. *Pats Mic* ... So for the past week and a half I have been wearing my natural hair out. I decided that it was time to give my 18", 20", 22" u part wig a break. Haha. I must admit that I am an avid lover of personality pieces but my hair underneath was in dying need of fresh air. Every year I usually cut my hair or try a different style. Since coming from my Cassie inspired shave cut it was time to embrace my natural hair that was growing underneath. 

When I first unleashed the natural last week I can say I wasn't a fan of it at all but it felt good letting my real hair out. I headed over to Sally's and brought some products including Eden's Tea Tree and Peppermint Oil, Eco Styler Gel, Shea Moisture Deep Treatment Masque, and Curls Jelly to began with. I decided to try Bantu knots and immediately loved the style. 

It is amazing to see our natural coils and curls. I must say that I will be a transitioner because there is still permed hair that will need to change over. Growing up with natural hair wasn't anything we looked at as the beauty in a woman of color but now individuals inspire many with their big fros, curly hair, and protective styles such as braids and Havana twists. 

What makes you feel beautiful as a natural, and why did you decide to stop using all those harsh chemicals? I would love to hear your comments below. 

Lipstick & Love, XOXO 

Photo Credit: All photos are owned by me! :)