Strong & Healthy: I'm Bringing Sexy Back (Literally)

As we all know, I like to show up and show out. This past Friday was no exception. Given the fact that I had been awakened to a whole new world of makeup that I didn't know that I didn't know about, I just knew that this past Friday was going to be extra special.

Last weekend I did a flexi-rod set mainly because I couldn't really comb through it the week before (it was thick and dry) and therefore wanted to do a minimum amount that week. Plus, I went to a holiday party that Saturday and I wanted it to be fresh and super cute. Overall, it turned out well and lasted until I was ready to relax my hair that Thursday.

Casual Party Attire w/Fresh Curls

Because I had a few hiccups the last time I relaxed (I still have no idea why), I decided to use a new neutralizing shampoo. Considering I had my original bottle since 2006, I figure it was time to buy a new bottle just in case that happened to be the culprit. The relaxing process went same as usual. I shampooed and everything turned out great. I did modify the typical process slightly, by first, rinsing out the relaxer very well and then using ApHogee 2 Minute Reconstructor first before using the neutralizing shampoo. I can't say that in the end I noticed much of a difference, but maybe it did some good? I also did a deep condition this time around with my Shea Moisture conditioner and Roux Porosity Control conditioner. I then let my hair air dry and just pulled it back in a loose bun for work on Friday.

As I mentioned earlier, I wanted to try some new makeup techniques. Now I'm no expert, but I know enough to get by. I have a few brushes, pallets, etc, however after watching several videos on YouTube recently, I have learned that I don't know nearly as much as I should about makeup. And because of this I ran to CVS to buy some more makeup and I bought a new brand - Physician's Formula - and one I use frequently - Maybeline. Why do I drug store makeup you may ask? Because it's cheap and I am too at times, LOL. Now having watched the commercial for Maybeline Studio Explosion Eyeshadow I knew that was exactly what I wanted to try for my ensemble. I used the following video as my guide:

I quickly learned that I did not have the right tools for the job. The color didn't not apply as nicely or heavy as it did in the video. I had to go at it several times, but I finally got some color to apply and I (for one of the first times ever) did not look like the "Coon". Yes, I do make fun of myself for having such dark circles under my eyes...