Tra's Microbraidlocks

SL Gathering March 30, 2008

2008-04-05T10:21:00.001-07:00

My New Favorite Hairstyle

2008-04-05T10:04:00.000-07:00

So this is how I have been wearing my hair for the last week or so. To be honest I don't think the photos do it any justice (lol)! To achieve this look I set my locks on caruso curls. Once the set got old (the next day (-:) I pulled the sides back with a metal free black ponytail holder (not tight at all - I didn't even double it) and then used open end bobby pins to put the bottom sides and back in to place. This look holds all day and is super simple to recreate the next morning! The ladies at the the SL Gathering liked it a lot! The other reason I like this look so well is because it makes my hair look a "little" bit longer and surely you have figured out by now that I like long hair on me (hahahaha)!

A side note here: Can ya'll see that little beady bead there on the side?....I thought I had "baby toothbrushed" her in to place (she is such a rebel)!

Holla,

Tra

Ski Trip 2008- Breckenridge, CO

2008-02-09T13:08:00.001-08:00

These are just a few pics from my trip to Breckenridge, Colorado in January. I was there for the National Brotherhood of Skiers Summit (Black Ski Summit). It was a lot of fun. I even skiied some advanced blue ski runs. I didn't fall at all and I was so proud of my improvements.

My hubby and I, along with three other couples rented a large house in Breck for a week. It was beautiful there and yes it was reminiscent of the movie "Why Did I Get Married". Whenever someone heard that is what we were doing we got ask that question (-: . However our trip was planned well before the movie came out (lol). We even had a bit of drama from one of the couples to top it off. Word to the wise be careful who you travel with (hehehe). Still, it was a good trip!

As a bonus I ran into Ms. P who has sisterlocks and also lives in the Dallas/Ft. Worth Metroplex. She was looking fabulous as well and we both marvelled at how easy we had it in the hair dept. with our lovely locks!

If you have never been skiing going to the summit is an awesome way to be introduced to the the sport. You can ski during the day and party like a rock star at night!

Holla,
Tra

I Got Tagged 2008

2008-02-08T17:58:00.000-08:00

So I was tagged by Muslimahjlocs http://muslimahlocs.blogspot.com/

and I am going to do my best to comply with the rules. Linking to other blogs in a post has always been a weak spot for me so that is why you see the entire URL. Does that count as a fun fact?

1. link to the person that tagged you,

2. post the rules on your blog

3. share six non-important things/habits/quirks about yourself

4. tag six random people at the end of your post by linking to their blogs

5. let each random person know they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog

Here we go!

1. I have recently developed an obsession with Jimmy Choo handbags. I have only one but I long for more. This is an obsession that I cannot afford and cannot justify to myself or my hubby so I "best" get it in check...we are in a recession right?

2. I used to be really fascinated with east coast accents. So much so that I visited NYC in my 20's and went back home (Oklahoma City) with one....it was hilarious and so very wrong!

3. I had my nose re-pierced a few weeks ago. It is a small teeny tiny rhinestone and I love it!

4. I can still "drop it" on the dance floor and get up w/o assistance. This doesn't happen often but watch out when it does (-:

5. I really enjoy getting together with other black women and having open conversation about life, love, parenting, everything. I learn so much about myself and others this way.

6. I cut my hair weekly... since I split so many locks I find that I can't abide the varying thickness/thiness of some of my locks. This is another reason I wear my locks up so much...to try and keep the scissors out!

Folks I am tagging:

http://audreyspleasure.blogspot.com/

http://tamarabella.blogspot.com/

http://creyole.blogspot.com/

http://sister-in-locks.blogspot.com/

http://www.sisterlockswithstyle.blogspot.com/

http://knotsnlocks.blogspot.com/

I'm out!

Tra

Out on the town!

2007-12-18T17:41:00.000-08:00

I really don't get out too much. However every couple of months me and a few friends make our way to a Happy hour that turns into a party! Such was the case earlier this month. I had such a good time and I really didn't even get a chance to shake my groove thing (lol). For those that don't know dancing is what makes a night out fun for me. However on this night it was fun just hanging out with my girls and watching folks do their thing! The hair was pulled up with a B-tie. Typically any night out comes with a "you remind me of Jill Scott" (-: ! This night was no exception (lol).

She is coming to town in February and me and my DH are going to see her. This will be my 3rd time seeing Jill in concert. I love her voice and her stage persona!

Holla,

Tra

Apres Ski Boots!

2007-12-16T21:43:00.001-08:00

This is a first of a kind post for me. I was inspired by all the fun stuff that Brunsli puts on her site about retail items. So check it out!

These are my first real pair of Apres Ski Boots (after ski). I am super psyched about them! The first time I went skiing I saw all these ladies with the big furry boots on after they came down from a long day of skiing and boy did they look fly. This was waaaay before all the ladies of hip hop and video vixens starting sporting them in videos with half tops and boy shorts on (lol), before every shoe designer and there cousins started making a fur trimmed boot from rat fuzz (hehehe), and it was also during the time that idea of spending more than $60 on a pair of shoes was sort of foreign to me (lol). In any case I have been wanting a pair since 1999... so do ya think I waited long enough (-:?

Thing is, I don't get to ski as often as I would like and just could not justify buying a pair before now. I still won't get to ski as much as I would like but I am not getting any younger so what the HEY! The fur is rabbit and I wish I had a nice chocolate fur coat to match them but maybe next time. If you are an active member of PETA or just a person that doesn't believe in wearing animal skin don't come raining on my parade (lol).

I am assuming the coined term "apres ski" boots is French or maybe Italian (I don't know). I just know I love these boots and I can't wait to wear them on the mountains!.

Thanks for letting me share. There is one hair post below (-;

Tra

Her joy is my joy!

2007-12-15T12:11:00.000-08:00

Here we are at my daughter's recital (I need to come up with a blog name for her). She took the pic of me and I think she captured her momma so well (lol). There were 5 dance and 4 costume changes for this recital. I was running back and forth to help her change and catch her performances. She had so much fun up there and I can tell that she loves being on stage and isn't at shy. Wonder where she gets that from! Several family members came out to support her but I didn't ask them if it was ok to post there pics so I won't do that. It was an awsome night and I got so much joy out of watching her have a good time!

Peaceful Pose

2007-12-15T12:05:00.000-08:00

This is the ending pose for one of the dances my daughter's dance group performed at the recital. I love this shot because it looks so calming and peaceful.

Jan-July-Nov 2007 Growth?

2007-12-15T11:50:00.000-08:00

This collage represents the growth of my locks over this year. Many of you recall that in October of 2006 at my one year locversary I experienced a "lock chop". In January of 2007 I ask Gigi a wonderful sisterlock consultant to please trim my locks and give them a "Fresh New Look". Gigi did an awesome job and since that time there has been some growth. The top row is Jan/July/Nov of the back and so on and so forth (-:

Personally I don't thik the side had major growth but again a lot of that has to do with me splitting several of my locks in the top and on the sides. I really am loving that I am finally getting some length back and really enjoy my hair on most days. I am going to Creyole for my retightenings now and she is doing a fantastic job!

Feel free to share your thoughts.

Tra

Thoughts on being locked 2 yrs.

2007-11-28T18:55:00.000-08:00

Hey girlfriends and guyfriends (don't think I have any male readers but just in case) ! As usual it has been forever. Unfortunately I left my camera over to a friends house and the updated pics I planned to post won't be included today )-:

However during my time away I had my two year locversary in October!

The Shake Down:

1. My locks have certainly grown. I will prove it when I post (lol), not shoulder length yet but sooner or later they will get there and hopefully beyond.

2. I colored my locks dark in September in an attempt to get closer to my natural color. Those pesky highlights have already re-emerged (Brunsli does this sound familiar?) I think I will just leave it for now. I know that it won't keep the ends from going back and could cause more slippage and unraveling.

3. Some of you may recall that I began splitting my locks back April or May. Well 6 or 7 months later I am STILL in the splitting process. This is for the birds and although I think the outcome will be really good the "going through" part is driving me nuts. I already had over 400 locks to begin with. I am not sure how many I will have when this is over but it will be A LOT. I wonder if I am prepared for this. I know for sure that I didn't consider what all the extra locks would do to my retightening time can you say $$$Cha-ching$$$. I have become impatient with this and find that I will seperate the locks sometimes before it is ready leaving a really short piece of lock to retigthen (lol)....you should see some of tiny twigs I have in my head. Luckily I have enough hair to hide most of them. I am back to doing some braiding and banding when I wash my hair.

4. I am not OVER my hair yet. Two years later and I am a little more content but definitely NOT over it! I will be glad when I am.

5. I feel very cute with my locks but I am not sure if that is entirely a new feeling (generally I can always find something cute about myself, is that talent?) or if it comes and goes depending on the day. By that I mean that I have "good" hair days and "ok" hair days but not really "bad" hair days because I can pull it up into my Brunsli Hairtie and keep on trucking.

6. Something that I am "OVER" is trying to convince others that locks have versatility. I figure I can show you better than I can tell you. Still I feel no pressure to keep my hair styled to prove a point (-:

7. Advice for newbies - It has all been said before and I know you have read it on all the blogs that you stalk (hahaha!). That being said I don't have any unsolicited advice. However if you havent' already, check out Blaqkofi, Creyole, Goodnapps, Brunsli, Cheleski68 & Renea (Haven) for some good real world advice and suggestions. They are in my links area. Oh and I am open to answering if you have a specific question for me (-:

I think that is all I have for now. My intent is to get my camera back this weekend and post pics then. Thanks to all of you who keep checking my less than active blogging. I do appreciate the comments and have become quite the lurker these days.

I'm out!
Tra

I "does" hair

2007-08-13T08:03:00.001-07:00

I was in TJ MAXX just recently and I saw this sister with locked hair. She was wearing the crinkly look and so I complimented her hair. She then proceeded to say thanks while looking upside my head. Now I am sure you can tell my the word "upside" that my tone is a bit agitated (lol). After the half a* thanks she ask me who I go to have my locks done. I tell her, she cuts me off to say "I just moved here"....not sure of the relevance of that comment....but then she takes a solid stand and says "I DOES HAIR"! Ohhh okay so this is what this is about. I do a mental sigh and ignore the "does" instead of "do" and ask if she uses a tool to retighten or if she does palm rolls. She responds that she does palm rolls. She ask if I had sisterlocks and I told her no but that the lady who retightens my hair is a SL consultant....then she says to me "I was looking at your hair and it looks thin" She then said she does SL's....this was funny to me since she told me that she maintains locks with palm rolls.

Ok whatever!Back to- My hair looks thin...that is joke! I responded that while I do have some very small locks around my hairline, my hair is by no means thin. Mind you I can see her scalp and if I were interested could probably read her mind because it was so visible...but I digress. In any case I guess it was understood that I was not interested in having her "does" my hair because neither of us said another word (lol).

Back in my permie days I can remember going to hairdressers when out of town or maybe my regular person was booked up for one reason or another and I always hated when they tried to find something wrong with the health of your hair and imply that whoever does your hair back home is not doing a good job. Especially when they were doing the same thing....slapping a chemical on your hair!

On another note; This picture was taking while I was visiting New Orleans. Now my attention to detail is 50/50 so I can't tell you the relevance of this statue. I just liked it and wanted to pose next to it. Perhaps Creyole will check in and provided some details for us (-: I also realize that I have not done a post on my trip to the Essence fest and that this pic has nothing to do with my post (lol)! Thanks for reading it anyway. If you click to enlarge the picture and you get a better look at my hair and the statue!

My hair is doing its thing and I am still wearing it up...it is too darn hot in Texas!

Holla, Tra

Tagged....Forever Ago!!

2007-07-30T05:11:00.001-07:00

I was tagged a while back and I can't remember from who (sorry)....then I was tagged again about two moths ago by Cheleskilove! I am finally going to attempt to write something up and hopefully I will get a decent 7.

1. If I am in a conversation with someone and there is a mirror in my line of sight I always end up watching myself talk even when I am completely interested in what the other person is saying (lol). Now sure, that could mean that I am narcissitic, which was suggested when I did a "blog personality" survey last year. However it could also mean that I am interested in how I look when I say certain things and want to ensure that I don't have an intimidating/intense look when communicating, which I have also been told I do.

2. One of my pet peeves is for a woman to speak to a man who is with his mate and not speak to his mate. Even if you don't know the man's mate you should still speak and acknowledge her in the greeting. IMHO if you don't do this you are purposefully being catty and sending a message that maybe there is a "reason" you are only speaking to the man and not his woman. For my own sake I ALWAYS acknowledge a man AND his woman....it just the right/respectful thing to do!

3. When I was a senior in highschool I was voted Homecoming Queen. LOL- this was a good and a bad memory for me. Good because there wer a few haters in the midst as to be expected and I still won. Basically it was a popularity contest. That is not the bad part though (lol). Bad- when my name was announced I completed the most spontaneous and unlady like leap into the air, it was similar to the click of the heels that you might see the Lucky Charm leprachaun do on commercials (back in the day). Fortunately for me no one made a big deal out of it and there is no videotape of it!

4. I have been told by more than a couple of caucasions that I look like Queen Latifah (she is lovely but I don't agree)....and by several AA's that I remind them of Jill Scott (I don't mind this one even if it isn't true!). At a different time in my life I also was told that I remind folks of Phylicia Rashaad (now that I will take all day and twice on Sunday). Bottom line is they are all lovely but I don't look like nary one of them but I am still CUTE!

5. I am huge Beyonce' fan inspite of the itty bitty clothes and loads of weave that she wears. I think she is a talented performer and has an awesome voice. My feelings were hurt for her when she did the head first tumble down 12 stairs at the Orlando concert. Having seen her in Concert twice I figured that fall was bound to happen. Its like if you do a lot of cooking sooner or later you will probably burn a dish!

6. Whoo I am getting close to the end I just need two more things- Let me see......hmmm! Ok true confessions; I have a bad history of getting puppies and then realizing that I didn't get the right dog for me and not being in love with them. Folks I have re-homed two dogs in 5 years. I know that is bad )- : ! The good thing is I know the people that they live with and check on them periodically and they are happy in their new homes. Both were spay/neutered, completely housebroken, and responded to simple commands. I just wasn't connected. I love small dogs I think I have settled for certain things when outside of what I really wanted when I chose my previous pets. I am not giving up though. I am sure you all think I should (lol)....but the right time and pet(s) will happen. I am not sure if I should publish this.

7. I am a Libra and I believe in fair/balance. I can't stand to see someone being done wrong, specifically in matters of the heart. I have had friends stop talking to me before because they ask my advice on their Mr. WRONG and I told them the truth! I have since learned that we know when we are being done bad some just want an ear to listen to them and maybe tell them to keep on loving the loser he will change. So I give them my ear, shut my mouth, and send up a prayer! (-:

Now that you have read this stuff I have one request (I got my nerve huh?)....my request is; don't talk about me, pray for me (-:

P.S. Pic is from Jan07 - Time has flown hair has grown!
P.S.S No tags from me because you have all been there done that!
Holla,
Tra

Jan - July Growth

2007-07-27T20:35:00.000-07:00

I just had my hair retightened today so I wanted to post some to compare from when I had my "cut" in October and then trimmed and shaped up in January. The pics to the left are after I received a "requested" trim and shaping from Gigi and the right shows my hair today. While I am not blown away by the growth I do acknowledge that some has taken place. I started feeling better once I could resume wearing a pineapple with my Brunsli hairtie. Speaking of the pineapple mine is starting to look more like a small pom-pom (lol)....I am fine with that as well.

Since I am still in the process of having several of my locks split that lends to the shortness in the top or the appearance of "no growth". The locks that are being split coil unto themselves and are closer to the scalp. It is hard to explain.

Basically it is slow going with the splits an the growth and I am trying to be a trooper since this the path I chose. I am ready to color my hair again but I can't due to the new locks that I have. They would just come right down so I will have to stick it out.

I knew it was time for me check in and post. I have been tagged and I am still working on something that might be even slightly interesting.

Talk to ya later,

Tra

Side by Side

2007-07-27T19:38:00.000-07:00

Upsie-doosey makes a cutie! (-:

2007-05-15T19:58:00.000-07:00

At least I think so! I got so many compliments this day on my hair and I can't say that I was to surprised since I thought it was pretty cute as well (lol). I had carusoe curled it the night before for my 2 yr. wedding anniversary. We went to see John Legend in concert to celebrate (YAY). Well the next morning I wasn't about to caruso curl again and it wasn't hanging quite right so I figured "up into my Brunsli tie they go". You can't see it because I tucked it underneath in the back. This was a regular work day and I was feeling FAB (was it the hairdo or the anniversary...hmmmm)!

It's Our Anniversary!

2007-05-14T20:15:00.000-07:00

WOOOHOOO! It has been two years since we were married and it feels good to be in love with my best friend. Things are going just as they should be at home and spending quality time together is not one of those "hard to do" things for us. I thank GOD for that!

To celebrate we went to the John Legend concert. John did a pretty good job but there was this woman behind us "bless her heart" that croaked out nearly every word of every song the ENTIRE concert. It was sooooooooo bad that a couple left before the show was over because of her. I covered my ears trying to drown her out but to no avail. You see we didn't have floor seats and I believe had we been on the floor and closer up then we probably would not have heard froggolina's serenade. The sad thing is that she had a date, it sounded like a first date, because they did an insane amount of talking throughout the show. The only reason I can imagine that he didn't tell her to HUSH IT!, is because he was trying to seal the deal on some after show activities (lol). There is just no other excuse to sit next to that horrid voice all night and be silent.

As for me I took it as Karma because just a week before me and some girlfriends were at a restaurant and we were having so much fun we got a bit loud. Even after being asked my staff to quiet down we had one that couldn't quiet down to save her life. Needless to say the couple next to us left unhappy. SOOO I guess I had it coming )-: OH WELL!

Back to the anniversary. It was alllll good!

Tra

Jan-March-May Updates.

2007-05-07T19:42:00.000-07:00

The top two pics are from January. The bottom left is March and the bottom righ is May. There has been a little bit of growth. I am not sure it will be visible to you all but I just wanted to share some updates. I have had all of these on the camera forever (lol).
I will be creating more collages and updates with close ups!

Tra

Full Frontal!

2007-05-07T18:07:00.000-07:00

Now this pic should bring you up close and personal with my locks. I love how well you can see the color in this shot and I think it is a pretty decent look at my lock texture as well. I still have quite a few loose ends but I am trying not to sweat it too much.

Splitting locks,Dr. Cornwell's Visit, & Pineapples!

2007-03-28T18:13:00.000-07:00

What's up everyone! Long time no blogging, I know!

Splitting Locs
The latest with me is that I went in for a retightening and informed my consultant that I would like to have my locks in the front and crown of my head split. I have decided that I am tired of fretting about it and regardless of the fact that I know they are fine the size they are are I was just not satisfied. Presently I don't have any pics of the locs that are being split but I would venture to say that I am splitting approx 40 to 50 (maybe more) of my 400 something locks. It will be a long process but I anticipate being please with the final result.
My take away is: Don't be so anxious to get what you want that you allow impatience to push you to settle for something that you may not be satisified with!

Dr. Cornwell's Vist
The DFW Sistlocks Group hosted an event for Dr. Cornwell to come and speak, meet, & greet! I had a very good time and found Dr. C to be a very funny and entertaining woman. She was good natured and took a lot of pics of everyone there! I am betting that a few of my DFW sisters end up in a SL journal soon (-: . Her hair is really magnificant in person. I can't even imagine my hair being that length. Most likely I will not even allow it to grow that long since my patience is not all that great (lol). There is a pic posted with the back of Dr. C's head in it. She is signing my SL journal in this shot.

On another note I am wearing the bejeebies out of my Brunslitie (The Tony) . In the pics you will see what is my favorite and daily hair style. I call it a funky pineapple and by bangs are the "nappy swoop" (lol). Sometimes I let my bangs hand down, just depends on my mood.
I am will attempt to add more pics and talk a bit more this weekend but no promises.
(Thanks for the pics Jen!).

P.S. Feel free to crack up at the bobby pin sticking out in the back of my head (LOL)!

I'm out!

Tra

Fresh New Look! (wink @ Creyole)

2007-01-13T10:35:00.000-08:00

Last year Creyole posted about her fresh new look. She had Gigi do a grooming and loved the way it turned out. I also thought her new look was slamming! Well this past week when I was having my hair retightened. I ask Gigi to pleaaaasssse hook up my chopped locks so that my layers would "lay" better. I am sure some of you are thinking..."girl you still letting folks cut on your hair?". Well let me tell ya she did the darn thing and I was thrilled with the look. I have been admiring my shorter locks now for the past couple of days and definitely see some freestyling in my life after my trip this coming week!

I think the color looks better in person because it blends alot more than the pictures show. In the pics it looks like the gold locks just stand out of nowhere but that isn't the case (lol).

Gigi also grounded me from washing my hair in the shower because of all the slippage I have around my edges (front, back, and side to side (hehehe)). Along with no shower shampooing I can only wash every other week and ABSOLUTELY NO CONDITIONING until those edges lock up. That is the really stinky part for me because I am one who complains a bit of hard feeling locks and the conditioner was helping that somewhat. I will comply though because the sooner they lock up the sooner I can condition again (lol). I would say that at 15 months, I am about 80% locked which is not too bad. Had the chop not happened I would have still had a lot of loose ends, and I would not have this very slamming layered look that Gigi gave me! I guess there is some light at the end of the tunnel. Addtionally I have resisted the urge to cut even more by hiding my scissors and covering my hair when I get home so that I can play around in it and feel the locks that I think should be cut. Plus I don't want to mess with my new layers and have them looking chopped up again (-:

Something else really cool happened while I was having my hair done. Blaq stopped by to bring me her digital camera! She recently purchased a new one and decided that I should be the lucky recipient of her previous digital camera. At dinner with she and Creyole back in December they both razzed me about my camera phone shots (LOL). Blaq offered her camera to me and hoped that I wouldn't be offended. I was so totally NOT offended. I am a disposable camera kind of gal so this about five steps up for me. Plus it touched me that she thought of me to pass it down to. Isn't it just awesome to meet people on line that you can truly connect and build friendships with that you would have otherwise never even know? I think so!

Anyhoo the pics above are from Blaq's new camera and not my adopted camera (lol). We are still bonding. I will post pics from MY digital camera soon though.

Holla,

Tra

Bantu Knot Set

2007-01-08T17:48:00.000-08:00

Hellllloooooo out there! Just wanted to post pics of my bantu knot- set. I have been wearing my hair like this since mid December and I kind of dig it for now. Check out the slide show and let me know what ya think. Oh yeah and this could very well be my last post of pics with a camera phone, me and a very good sisterfriend are working on me getting a digital (lol). I will keep ya posted on that (pun intended). Thanks for stopping by and I apologize for the delay in my update as well not being able to keep up with so many of my cyber friends out there. I miss you guys a lot!
Tra

What's New?

2007-01-01T17:38:00.000-08:00

I wish things were as laid back for me as I look in this picture (hehehe). I was at my best friends house in Oklahoma for the New Year Holiday. We were kicked back chilling and she snapped a shot of me on her Treo. We had such a good time for NYE both me and hubby got to hang out with our best friends and really bring in the new year right!

Not too much is new in my world these days. I am working my tail off learning a new job but I am loving it! I will be the first to say that no matter where you go there is always some "mess" to be dealt with. However liking your job makes it a bit more tolerable!

As for all the drama surrounding my hair during interviews, well that is sooo over and I am GLAD! I get so many compliments on my hair from all creeds and colors while I am working. Now if we can drag the rest of our race into the millenium regarding natural hair we will have really done something B I G! My professionalism is not being called into question whatsoever and most definitely not because of my locks.

On a different note I will be missing out on the DFW SL Gathering this coming weekend and I am sick about it. The cool thing though is that I will be in SF, Cali. for work. I am hoping that me and the Diva Brunsli will be able to hook up while I am there! We are working on plans for that.

Talk soon,

Tra

Dinner in December @ Brooklyn's

2006-12-18T11:25:00.000-08:00

We decided to meet for dinner and had a great time!!! Taking with pics with these two (Blaq & Creyole) always turns out awesome...they are so beautiful inside and out that it just shines right over to me too!

Thanks for a good evening out with the girls!

Just Checking In

2006-11-19T14:42:00.000-08:00

I am back from 2 weeks of training. I was in New Jersey. Unfortunately I didn't see much of Jersey nor did I get to catch the train into the city for a tad bit of shopping. Oh well maybe next time!

Here are some snapshots of my locks after a wash and retightening. I must report that I am still not sporting these babies freestyle in public. I just can't get with it yet. Note that I STILL have curly's. One would think after my infamous "chop" that I would have fewer of these. In my case I have had numerous locks "slip" and "unravel" resulting in a lot of loose hair. The chop is not solely responsible for the slippage part though, I added color to my hair which you can't see in the photos but it is pretty cool looking (IMHO). Gigi said it reminded her of a Cherry Coke (lol)....I dig that description. My sister in law is a stylist and she colored it for me. I think she did a pretty good job!

Gigi did my last retightening and she did a great job. I never really knew what the "Gigi" buzz was all about until I had her do my locks. My head truly felt retightened. Her work is so neat and clean. I don't think she missed a single lock when she did my retightening, plus she reinstalled the locks that were completey loose.

I am receiving a lot of compliments on my hair and it is coming from several different racial groups including my own (-: Perhaps the natural revolutions is taking over Texas. Okay, not quite but I will rejoice in the baby steps!

I have also used the SS curlers on my hair and I have to say that I really like the super curly look that I get with them. I know a lot of you don't use them becasue of the length of your locks but you can really achieve a funky look if you aren't afraid of a tight curl. I will post pics of it when I get a chance.

Thanks for stopping by!

Tra

Once Again, It Was On!

2006-10-18T14:35:00.000-07:00

It was really great to see everyone one. This was the 1 year Anniversary for the ladies of the DFW to get together. One person that I didn't get to talk to enough nor get a picture with was Lashaune. She came all the way from Florida. This lady has such a sweet spirit. I broke into tears once more about my hair (lol)....totally out of no where. A member of the group who hadn't seen my blog ask me about the cut and the water works started (HA!). In any case I could really feel Lashaune empathy and didn't get a chance to tell her that I appreciated it.

Of course the Diva Brunsli was there and she just as fabulous and smart in person. She gifted me with a headband hairtie that is just too cute and really adds something extra to my ear length locks. I can't wait to rock it!

Maryee conducted interviews with several of us about our reason for locking our hair and what was or had taken place in our lives since we locked up. It was so darn cool! As you can see from the pics this event was full of sassafrass and fun. I definitely wish I had been in NYC back when the Sisterlocks crew went because there just was not enough time.
This is just a quick collage that I put together from photos I snagged (with permission). Both Maryee and Brunsli have albums set up with more pics. They are linked to my blog so please check them out!

A couple of funny things happen during the event. My girl Detra and I seem to live to get together to talk mess to each other (lol)...I adore her! The other thing is that I never considered when I was establishing my blog name that it would be pronounced (TRAHH) . So in case you say (TRAHH) , and you like that then feel free to keep saying that in your mind or out loud (lol)...but in my mind and out of my mouth it's Tra (like an Ice Tray...hehehehe). I so don't care but thought it would be fun to post about it (-:

Holla,
Traaaaaaa

Unknown Inspiration

2006-10-09T18:55:00.000-07:00

I received a comment about my haircut and I was so pleased that she shared her situation on my blog. Apparently my haircut provided another locker to do something that she had been longing to do. Sometimes we have no idea how our post will affect or inspire someone else. Thanks for sharing Andrea! I am really starting to get used to my cut and appreciate your story.

Read below:

Andrea said...
I have over 4 year old Sisterlocks, with 17-20 inches of hair. I had been saying for the past year that I wanted to cut them shorter and sport a "sassier" 'do. After reading your post "Happy Birthday to me..." post, I was immediately inspired to just do it! Saturday night, I cut off 8-10 inches all over, into a layered look. I acknowledge that this change is not as dramatic as yours, but for me it was monumental.

When I started my lock journey over 4 years ago, I had 10-12 inches of natural hair, so this new cut is about the same length as it was them. I want to express to you that what I now find out to be a "miscommunication" with your stylist, gave me the courage to stop talking about it and be about it.Then when I read this follow-up post about your disappointment, I felt bad. For what it's worth, if you had never shared your testimony and the picture of your hair on the floor, I would still be making excuses for not cutting my own hair.

Thank you Tra! With each passing day, I pray that you will love your new 'do even more. FYI: I love my cut and I did it all myself. Please continue to share and post pics. I love reading your blog and you always offer good advice.AndreaSL'd 4.25 years

Tra

New Beginnings

2006-10-09T18:45:00.000-07:00

Here I am on my first day of my new career with my new haircut! My new manager took this photo for me a la camera phone. I am holding the vision statement that my new team wrote a year and half ago to represent the direction they were heading in for success and cohesiveness as a unit.

My manager and I had a great day and it appears our working relationship is going to be awesome. I will be training for the next 8 weeks (home study, field training, and corporate office training). Lots to do and learn but I am up for the challenge!

I wore a cute black headband that you cannot see in the pic. I also picked up a brown and taupe headband and plan to make that my "signature" style for work. I am gettting used to cut and considering some of the things I will be able to with it at this length....you might ask "like what?" Wellll, I don't know yet but I am optimist and I have to "rock what I got", so no more tears (lol)! On another note the hubby was nonplussed about the hair cut but is being supportive. He even told me how super cute I was when we went out over the weekend.

Later,

Tra

Starting Over

2006-10-08T12:12:00.000-07:00

I am sorry for the wait but I have to be honest I am still getting used to this new hairstyle. I had my cousin take some pics on her digital but I am not sure when she will have those downloaded and sent to me. So in the meantime here is an infamous camera phone shot.

As for how this happend: I went in for a groom, my locks are now officially 1 year old so I felt like this would be a treat. As I am talking to my consultant I expressed that I would be "fine" with her cutting some of my ends that looked as though they wouldn't lock due to the braid pattern etc. I just ask that she make sure it looked nice, not one side longer than the other etc. I can only assume that my lack of fear about losing length somehow encouraged this new hair cut that I have now.

I put on a brave face because I believe she felt like she was doing "right thing" since she knows that I want uniformity with my locks (yes I am one of those). However I did cry EXTREMELY hard at least 4 times since the BIG CHOP happened. I blame myself most for this miscommunication. I should have been more specific about a length that was acceptable to me and not just let this happen. However I still feel that there is no reason for my hair to be this short since I never ask for a hair cut, and given the length I walked in with. I still plan to have my hair retightened by her, but will not be allowing anyone at all to cut my hair (lol).

It is hard for me to fathom how I am now 12 mos. into my locking journey and my hair looks like I just started 4 mos. ago.....how does that happen? If I had wanted hair this short I would just cut it off at the beginning and got sisterlocks.

Now I can't even pull it up or do any of the things I had grown accustomed to doing with my hair. I started this journey with 8-10 inches of hair. My locks have gone from shoulder length to ear length. That was not the plan! I curled my locks yesterday and that will be the only way that I wear them until they grow some more (no freestyling right now). I did a lot of compliments on them but of course those folks have not idea where they were before the cut or that a cut ever took place.

I BC'd back in 2001 and allowed my hair to grow and grow and do its thing. Now I am back at the beginning and this feels like a new journey that I am starting without being in a "transition" state of mind as I had been before. Sure I will get over it and find new ways to rock my shorter locks but it does come with a bit of mourning for what was.

Shoot....I am starting to cry again!

Tra

Happy Birthday To Me (insert sarcasm)!

2006-10-06T18:23:00.000-07:00

Here is a bit of multiple choice for you.

What do you think this picture represents?

A. The destruction of a perfectly good lock journey.
B. The need to experience short locks so that a better appreciation can be gained when they
are longer.
C. A serial lock chopper that accosted an innocent lockhead.
D. A groom gone awry, a miscommunication of sorts.
E. A lot of tears of streaming, a sense of mourning like someone passed away
F. Both D & E
G. All of the above

Celebrate Good Times...C'MON!!!!

2006-10-04T12:28:00.000-07:00

Please join us for this celebration! My locks are turning 1 yr. old in a couple of days and I am turning another year younger tomorrow, so October is a very GOOD time for me!
I look forward to seeing everyone soon.

Tra

Things Are Pretty Good

2006-09-28T19:43:00.000-07:00

Do you see that bit of light reflecting my photo below? It is making me feel like shining star (-: . I don't remember which one of my "sisters" took the photo of me at the Feb. Sisterlock gathering but I have been saving it for a special occasion. Maybe that seems silly but I knew the moment that I saw it that I couldn't post it until something special happened!

WEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEELLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!!!!!
I am a couple of weeks from celebrating my 1 yr. Locversary and my husband is complimenting my hair more and more each day. I am feeling soooo loved that I am glowing with it!

Also I am embarking on a new career that I am ecstatic about. I have to tell everyone that I truly truly appreciate the good vibes and prayers from everyone. Me getting this job is something that only HE could have done for me. Let me provide a little background: This time last year I decided to actively pursue a career in Pharmaceutical Sales. It has taken that full year for me to get where I wanted to be and beyond.

Typically a person coming into this industry w/o a pharma sales background starts as a Primary Care Rep. this is where I expected to come in and would have been happy to be there. However due to GOD putting people in my life and ordering my steps I am entering the industry as a Specialy Sales Representative. This rarely happens but every now and then it does. I am blessed to have had it happen to me. So much has gone into this journey. I will never forget the determination it took for me to get here and the encouragement that everyone has given me along the way. That support has been a huge part of my success and I plan to keep that ball rolling!

A guy I was in class with that also landed a job in pharma a few months ago sent me a congratulatory email. However he had to be a jokester (read: a-hole) and throw in "so what wig did you wear to land the job". At first that really chapped my hide, but I shook it off and simply let him know that I wore no wig AT ALL, I am the BOMB (hehehe)! This journey started with my locks, I landed this job with my locks, and I will be an ULTIMATE sucess with these locks. I can't wait to get into the field...should be interesting!

I GOT THE JOB!!!!

2006-09-22T20:50:00.000-07:00

I dont' have a lot of time to post on this but I had to share with my locked family. I received a pretty good offer from a CompanyA. It has taken me full year to gain this opportunity. Networking is key so if you are in search of a job, especially a "not so easy to come by" job, remember to NETWORK! NETWORK! NETWORK! NETWORK!
I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!I got the job!HURRAY!HURRAY!HURRAY!HURRAY!HURRAY!HURRAY!HURRAY!HURRAY!HURRAY!HURRAY!HURRAY!HURRAY!HURRAY!HURRAY!HURRAY!HURRAY!HURRAY!HURRAY!HURRAY!HURRAY!HURRAY!HURRAY!HURRAY!HURRAY!HURRAY!HURRAY!HURRAY!HURRAY!HURRAY!HURRAY!HURRAY!HURRAY!

Confessions

2006-09-16T10:15:00.000-07:00

This is my confession: During a round of interviews in August with company A, I wore a wig and I didn't feel bad about it (lol).

I had a total of 3 interviews and a ride day for this position. Things went great and I was sure that I would get the job! Well then a hiring freeze happened with CompanyX. Now before some of you start jumping to your own conclusions I have several contacts inside of CompanyX so I was able to confirm the freeze for the division I was interviewing for. After speaking to the hiring manager I learned that my instincts were dead on and that I was DEFINITELY going to receive an offer for the job BEFORE the hiring freeze was put in place. I will be honest folks...I cried! I knew in my heart that apparently GOD had something else for me but it still hurt not to get the job. It was a perfect fit, at least I thought so. In hindsight I guess the freeze was a warning that maybe all is not well with CompanyX and perhaps not a good place to start a new career.

Well as they say "when one door closes another one will open up", and that EXACTLY what happened for me! The same day I heard about the freeze I received and email from another manager telling me that she and opening that she wanted me to interview for. I met her back in June at another job fair that I atteneded. At the time that we met she had no openings on her team but we stayed in contact and she was impressed by me (her words (lol)). In any case nothing is final but I have now been through two interviews and a ride day with CompanyA and have two more interviews to go through before and offer "SHOULD" be forthcoming. It should be noted that CompanyX and ComapnyA are both under the umbrealla of a huge conglomerate (very seperate divisions) so it is possible that the hiring freeze for ComapnyA could affect CompanyB. I am cautiously singing a song of joy because I think this may be just what HE has for me!

Oh and guess what else, I DIDN'T wear the wig for this round of interviews and the hiring manager has complimented my locks and so has some of my "future" teammates(yes I have already met a few). All in all I feel that I have decided to do whatever I feel like doing for each individual scenario. The decision to wear the wig back in August was mine and the decision not to wear it this time was mine! I enjoyed that the most.

So please send me some good vibes as I complete out this series fo interviews. I really want this job!

Tra

Somebody's Locking!

2006-08-31T07:48:00.000-07:00

These are some pics that were taken last week with an actual digital camera instead of my camera phone (lol). I am sure Brunsli will be pleased (-;

I think you can actually see some of the details of my locs in these pics so I wanted to share them. I am nearing my 11 month of locdom and I am pretty pleased.

I will admit though that I have been snipping at the ends of my locks so much that I had to hide my scissors from myself. Yesterday was the first full day that I went without cutting my locks in over a week. I had gotten so bad that I was starting to cut all the way up to the middle of the lock which is why I have so much "bang" action in the front now (lol). I have to admit though that I like having bangs and I think it adds flavor to my freestyle.

Obviously I still have more curls in the back than what I thought I had but they are becoming more and more solid so hopefully I won't "HAVE" to cut'em (hehehe). Also I think it is becoming less and less apparent that I started with braids. There are still some ends that are in there original braid pattern but they aren't so obvious.

Check me out and tell me what ya think!

Question about braidlocks & sisterlocks...I think

2006-08-29T11:37:00.000-07:00

jb said...
I live abroad and am in the process of transitioninf. I have about 5-6 inches of new growth. The problem is I am in the USA 2 times a year at x-mas and during the summer. How could I get and maintain micros/sisterlocks. I had my braided in very tiny locks once by a loctitian named ISIS and I liked the ease of styling,. I am considering some type of locks.
jacke
22 August, 2006

Jacke,

Please forgive me for taking so long to respond to you. I meant to do this last week and forgot.
What I did was have my "natural" hair (no added hair) braided into very small individual braids. I had discussed in detail what size braid I was looking for and so we knew it would take a while. If you have someone that can braid your hair then you have half of the battle won. I intially went to a lady that was also a sisterlock consultant to retighten/maintain my roots. She used the the sisterlock tool to tighten me up and what I "believe" may be a pattern that some SL wearers use to retighten their roots. In any case I have since taken over my own retightenings by using the Nappylocks tool. You should be able to find the site for Nappylocks on any internet search engine.

I have seen some of Isis work and she does a fantastic job although everything I have by her has been with hair being addded in to create the natural styles. I have heard that she has a beautiful head of locks, but have never seen her before.

Now if what you really want are sisterlocks which I also highly recommend please check the sisterlock website to see if there is a consultant in your area. Also Yahoo Lockitup is an excellent chat group that is a great resource to have. They are very supportive of the SL method and of lockwearer's in general.

Good luck,

Tra

Fabulous Posts on the DFW Gathering Part IV

2006-08-24T14:12:00.000-07:00

Folks I am not going to even attemp to top Blaqkofi's blog about our latest and greatest meeting. I was all that is should be plus some. Jen and Maryee were missed but other than that it was ALL good!

Check this link to Blaq's blog to see the beautiful write up and pics to match!
http://blaqkofi.blogspot.com/2006_08_20_blaqkofi_archive.html

Thanks Blaq!

Ode to Brunsli Hair Tie

2006-08-24T13:52:00.000-07:00

In honor of my girl Brunsli this post is written in purple.

I received my two hair ties from the fabulous Brunsli earlier this month. She sent me the "Toni" and the "Cassandra" (featured above) both of which I am wearing out! I know that others have told you how great these ties are and folks it is the downright truth.

My hair ties make me and my locks feel; fly, earthy, soulful, and boho chic! I will pull my hair completely up (as shown in my AKA post below) or I will wear bangs , or just some hair out, as shown this pic. I have received numerous compliments on my locks since I started wearing the hair ties. I have said before that I enjoy freestyling with my locks (no curls, waves, or whatever). But lately I hadn't been pleased with how my locks are laying in my freestyle. Then my hairties came and resuscitated my freestyled locks look.

Brunsli daahhling you did the darn thing with these ties and I love them. Thanks for sharing your talents with us!

If you are interested in purchasing your very own Brunsli Hairtie go to this site!

http://hairties.blogspot.com/

Also thank you to Blaq for taking this pic and sharing it with me. I love it!

Later,

Tra

AKA's White Linen- Reactivation Soiree

2006-08-14T09:00:00.000-07:00

This weekend I attended a function with my locked sister and soror (sister) Sisterinlocks. She and I are both members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. I am coming up on 13 years as an AKA. Though I have been inactive for several years it is still something I hold near and dear. A local chapter in the DFW Metroplex hosted a reactivation event for inactive sorors to get back involved. The chapter is one of the newest in the DFW metroplex and so they have just under 100 members active and I am thinking that may be a better fit for me vs. the 400 members that the largest DFW chapter boast. Additionally since the chapter operates on my side of town it makes participating easier because I won't have to drive across the nation to be involved (lol). We shall see...being active is not cheap (lol).

The event was nice and we were served by men who were members of Alpha Phi Alpha and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternities. They took their duties quite seriously and made sure that we had whatever we needed. Gotta love that!

Last but not least, I was wearing my Brunsli hairtie. I know you can 't really see my hair although I did try to mess with the contrast on the pic to help it out a bit. I love the way it pulls my hair up so nicely. I still need to do a post specifically about my hairties but the pics I took were accidentally deleted and so I have to start from scratch.

Thanks for swinging by,

Tra

Sugar Water Concert Review & Lock Sightings

2006-08-04T07:56:00.000-07:00

ERYKAH BADU-JILL SCOTT- QUEEN LATIFA (Dana Owens)

At the last minute my DH got us tix to see the concert. I love me some Jill Scott and E.Badu is an awesome performer so I was very excited about this. Q. Latifah well I wasn't that excited about seeing her in the line up just because I knew her vocal skillz would not compare to the other two.

So the concert was intially scheduled for 7:30 pm and then it was "officially" re-scheduled for 8:00 pm (I didn't know that and for once me and DH were on time), well the show didnt' begin until shortly after 9:00 pm. Needless to say the native were very restless and even boo'd the female DJ (sacrificial lamb) who was there to play tunes for the crowd while the performers got ready.

Jill was the first one out and that was GREEEAAAATT thing. She came out there and calmed the crowd down with her beautiful spirit and energy. She apologized for the delay and said that this was "unusal foolishness" for them and that they are usually on time (not so sure about that with Badu in the line up (lol)). There is really just something about that lady. She had us laughing and smiling and glad we came all before she sang one song! Let me tell you though once she got started I was once again amazed by the purity of her voice as well as her range. She can go from flowing on the mic to opera with ease and continuity. I loved it and hated to see her show end.

Unfortunately Q. Latifah was next up and all I can say is that I slept through most of her show. She should not have been on this ticket (shaking my head). Her "singing" songs are boring as hell, her stage presence lack feminity, and other than U.N.I.T.Y. at the end of the show I am just not that familiar with her catalog. I love her on the silver screen though...she should get back there soon.

E. Badu was last to hit the stage Dallas is her hometown so you know she was going to show out. I will forever remember her doing the song "Annie Don't Wear No Panties"...it was my first time hearing it so I don't know if it is on a cd coming out soon or what. Let's just say that it is a bit vulgar but Badu is so darn "clever" that it still works (LOL). She is really fun to watch but after 3.5 songs we were just too tired to stay for the remainder of her show and so we called it a night. I have seen her before and will go see her again if or when she releases a new CD. It is about that time for her.

On another note I saw more locked heads in one place than I have ever seen. It did me proud to be one of them. I even ran into Blaqkofi, which was a loc-star sighting for me and she honestly looks even better in person than her pictures show and she takes great pics so imagine that!

I received a couple of compliments on my locks so I was feeling great about that. Blaq even said they no longer look like braids so HOORAY to looking lockish!

No Job!

2006-07-28T13:07:00.000-07:00

I heard back from 1 of the 2 managers that I interviewed with earlier this week. There was a split decision on me. The bottom line is the male liked me and the female didn't. The good thing that comes out of this is that the male manager is AA and he didn't give two figs about my hair. The female is a caucasion and I don't really think our lack of connection had a thing to do with my hair either (lol). I just didn't impress them both on the same level which was key for this position. One good thing was the male mgr. called me to give me the news and provided wonderful feedback and let me know that he truly believes I could do the job. That means my instincts about our connection were on point. I of course followed up my rejection with a "thanks for the experience" email. I do believe I may have established and ally within "the company". I will definitely stay in touch with him.

So yes I am VERY disappointed about not landing the job, but I have other interviews set for next week. You know how it feels when back in the day either you were breaking up with someone or being broken up with but there was a new boo on the horizon? Well that is how I am feeling today (LOL). I am a little hurt but it's nothing a good rebound relationship can't cure (hehehehe). It is just a matter of time before I land in the right company and position. I am VERY optimistic about that.

Have a great weekend folks, I plan to!

I'm out,

Tra

Interview #3 and SS Curls Again!

2006-07-26T07:52:00.000-07:00

Hey folks! I wanted to let you guys know that I did get a call back from the company I was interviewing with. I had my THIRD interview with them (counting the one at the job fair) on this past Monday. I must say once again that my hair was soooo not an issue at least as far as I can tell. I believe that I did pretty well on the interview and noticed that both managers in the interview were nodding their heads in agreement at different things that I discussed showing my ability to be great at this job!

In any case they are not looking to fill the position until Septemeber so I am not sure when I will hear back from them. I was not able to get them to commit to moving me forward in the process but then they didn't commit on the last interview either and I did get called back (three weeks later...uggh the wait was terrible). What I have learned is that the three P's of job hunting are forever true...Persistence, Patience, and Prayer.

I used my soft spike curlers for this interview again, the pictures are from the day after the interview. I really need a retightening but these curls mask that for me (-:
I am liking my locks and am getting my nerves up to get a groom performed on them.

Notice the texture in the up close shot of the back of my head....they are really locked!

I took these myself so my nose is looking real "extra" (lol).

I'll keep ya posted on the gig!

Tra

Flat Twist- 9 month old locks

2006-07-11T13:55:00.000-07:00

So my babies are now 9 mos. old YIPPPPEEEE!!! I know it is not one year yet but sometimes I am surprised that I have made it to this stage. They are so fat and contrary in this teenage stage (lol)...mmmhmmm that is right I have teenagers (hehehe).

I have also had a few more folks recognize that I have locks without me having to tell them, so that is a boost to the ego. A guy at the Kinko's who is of Carribbean descent I believe (also locking) complimented my hair a week or so ago and he also gave me my prints free. Not sure that my locks had anything do with it but ya never know!

As for styling today I decided to funk up my freestyle a bit and so I added flat twist to it. I think it is pretty cute so I will do it again tomorrow.

I altered the balance on the pics a bit to give a better showing of my hair. YES it is still phone camera city for me (lol).

Keep Locking,
Tra

NO NEWS!!

2006-07-11T13:34:00.000-07:00

It has now been over 2 weeks since my interview. I of course did all of the follow up calls and emails to show my enthusiasm for the opportunity to work for the "the company". I did receive feedback from an HR contact that the managers I interviewed with were considering bringing me back for another interview but the call to schedule the 2nd interview has still not come )-:

I was remaining hopeful that after the 4th of July holiday I would hear from them but still no word. So while I am still confident that I will eventuall get a position with some company I am disappointed not to have heard back from the hiring manager one way or another.

KEEPING HOPE ALIVE (-;

Tra

The Interview!

2006-06-23T09:37:00.000-07:00

I had an interview yesterday....YAAAY! I had to do a bit of persistence to get the call back but I did and it happened and I am thrilled about that. I DID NOT WEAR A WIG. I felt so much more like myself and feel that I did a great job in the interview. I do know of some areas that I should tighten up but overall I am pleased with the interview. As for "will I get the job" well I don't know for sure. There is some pretty stiff competition who are already in the industry and have the experience. However if "experience" was that necessary then I wouldn't have gotten the interview at all so I am optimistic in that.

I set my hair on soft spike curlers and pinned my sides back a bit and created a very Nouveau-Professional Look
(I like that (-:). In all honesty I don't think my hair was an issue at all. I didn't feel as though the interviewer gave a darn one way or another about my hairstyle. He is also the person that interviewed me at the job fair so he had seen the wig. My opinion is that the manager liked me and I am a consideration for the job.

I'll post when I know more. Thanks for checking in!

Tra

I wore the wig...hope I get a gig (-:

2006-06-04T18:10:00.000-07:00

Hey out there! The job fair has come and gone. I had a several interviews (different companies) and I know that I did well in 80% of them. There were a couple of managers that I just didn't connect with. I didn't let it get in the way of the next interview...gotta keep it moving. However now it is a waiting game to see how many bites I get. All the while staying on top of my game and continuing to hunt for the right fit between me and a company.

I wore the wig everyday the week leading up to the job fair. I wanted to get to a point that I was comfortable in it and could forget that it was there. It worked and I really was able to concentrate on the interviewer's questions and give throrough responses all the while still being engaging and charismatic (smile). I enjoyed the adrenaline rush that I received from the interviews and I am hoping to keep that going in my search. It is my hope that by this time next year I will have gained a positon and will be able to sit in on the class for next year and be a representative of professinal loc wearers in the industry.

I appreciate the time that everyone took to express their support and outrage on this issue.
I WILL NOT be wearing a wig to anymore interviews going forward, me doing so was exclusive to this job fair. Should I receive follow up interviews from the job fair it will be interesting to see if there is any reaction at all to my hair transformation (hehehe). I know like everyone else that locked hair is just as professional as straight hair. My uniqueness (if locked hair can be considered as such) will definitely work for me when the right fit/job comes along. I believe that sincerely.

The pics was taken of me by my daughter, even though you can see it really well I got an AWESOME braid out from having to cornrow my locks down to fit under the wig....something good came out of I suppose *laffs*.

TTFN

Tra

My Hair, My Mojo, and the lack there of

2006-05-23T07:50:00.000-07:00

The quality of this picture depicts exactly how I am felling lately. It is blurry, skewed, and lacking definition. I have been wanting to blog about what is going on with me but I have been in such a funky mood about it that I have refrained. Well the mood is no less funky today but the need to get it off my chest is overbearing so here I am.

If you have read my blog then you know that I am participating in a Career Development class. There is a job fair at the end of this class for the industry that I am so very interested in getting into. So anyway, early on it was brought to my attention that to be "allowed" to participate in the job fair I will have to wear a wig to cover my locks. SUPPOSEDLY this industry is ultra conservative concepts and prefers "bone straight" hair on AA's. This means wear a wig or don't participate. Now while on one hand I completely value the information I am learning in the class on the other hand I completely resent being ask to cover my hair as well as knowing that if I don't I WILL NOT be able to participate in the job fair. This job fair will have between 5 to 7 companies coming out to interview my class for positions. There are less than 20 of us in the class and I feel that I have a GREAT shot at getting on with one of the companies if I get face time with them. This is also a very competitive industry and getting an interview is not easy as "123" you must network and get to know folks to get interviews etc. In any case I've resigned myself to wearing a wig for the job fair but the problem is that I have now spent over 90.00 on three wigs and I am not comfortable in any of them and the ALL look like what they are....WIGS. It is completely messing with my MOJO and I can't stand it!

I have seen folks in this industry with natural hairstyles but all of them started the ascent to naturalness after landing the gig. I honestly feel that if the job fair didn't consist of over 80% AA candidates my hair would not be such and issue. I say this because I can't imagine going to an interview where the majority of candidates where non-AA and having the hiring managers really focus on my hair because they likely wouldn't know what to compare it to, whereas at the job fair the other women will also be AA's and have straight hair so there will be an immediate comparison. I assume this is why I have been advised to assimilate, as not to give them any reason to knock me out of the competition.

I have read the many comments on other blogs and forums about why would you interview with your locs covered when that is a part of who you are and if you can't be accepted with your locs then you probably don't want the job they have to offer blah blah blah. I really can feel the folks that say that but I also recognize that this is a means to an end, and as frustrated as I am about it, I still want into this industry and know that once I am "in" my hair will not be a big deal because of my solid performance. I have also decided that once this job fair is over, I will not interview with wigs.

Note: I will NOT be posting any pics on my blog of me in the wigs. I just can't do it!
And even though "I am not my hair" it is important to me (-:

Tra

RESPECT THE NAPP!!!

2006-04-21T17:46:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I went home to celebrate Easter with my family (cousins, aunts, uncles, etc.). It was a big shindig and almost everyone was there! Since me and one of my cousins are the bonafide nappy heads of the clan we decided to really represent. Neither of us takes issue with being called "nappy headed" however we do like them to recognize that it is a source of pride for us. So while they don't have to understand WHY we do WHAT we do (being nappy that is) we do ask that they "RESPECT THE NAPP". Me and my first cousins are pretty tight and so when another cousin saw our shirts and hadn't been asked if she wanted one, she was definitely nonplussed. Here is the deal on that: This cousin wears a perm, so that makes it obvious why we didn't ask her if she wanted one. But get this, the reason she "thought" she wanted one is because she thought the "NAPP" was for nap/sleep time (LMAO). I guess it would help if you knew that she is preggers (she is the one in the pink) and sleeping is heavy on her mind! I seriously died laughing when I realized she was clueless on this one. As the day progressed we received several inquiries about our hair and our shirts and not the typical "nappy head" comments. I honestly think the family appreciated the shirts as well as our attitude and pride about out hair.

On another note I learned something new about myself this weekend. I can't stand the smell of hair being hot ironed, curled, or flat ironed. My sister has a BEEYOOTEFUUL head of long hair and although she doesn't wear a perm she does seem to wear it straight more times than not (-: Well let's just say that even if I wanted to share the bathroom with her whil we got ready for church on Easter Sunday I wouldn't have because the smell was killing me and yes her hair was clean (hehehe). I am not sure when this happened to me but I swear I kept thinking about Brunsli's (a fellow loc'd blogger) hubby refering to her hair as "smelling like burnt" while my sister had her flat iron going (LMAO).

Holla back!

Tra

p.s. This is my very first collage, I made it all by myself (lol) which explains why it is just "ok". I plan to get a bit collage happy though real soon.

Blog Persona! Shocking?

2006-04-07T13:34:00.000-07:00

So here is what my blog type had to say about me. Now I don't really think that I am "shocking" any readers here, but feel free to let me know if you been shocked by my blogging before and by what (lol). I would love to hear about it.

Your Blogging Type is Unique and Avant Garde

You're a bit ... unusual. And so is your blog.You're impulsive, and you'll often post the first thing that pops in your head.Completely uncensored, you blog tends to shock... even though that's not your intent.You tend to change your blog often, experimenting with new designs and content.

What's" Your Blogging Personality?

Six Months of Locing, Loving, and Learning

2006-04-07T08:24:00.000-07:00

Here I am at 6 months with my braidlocks and I want to take a second to reflect on 6 things that I have learned so far during my loc journey. Not much change since the last time I posted my freestyle do but I had to at least honor that my half year anniversary of locking has arrived. The picture below was taken in Decemeber when my locs were about 2 mos. there is some difference from there. Maybe you can do a comparison. Over all though I just like that picture and wanted to include it (lol). I think Maryee or LaChanda may have taken it for me at our SL Gathering @ Blaqkofi's place.

1. There is no such thing as 100% uniformity in locs- this will especially be the case with me. I have several different textures of hair so why would I expect all my locs to look the same? With this said I do still expect to have an awesome set of locs that are perfect in their imperfections.

2. Most folks just aren't going to get it! - For me locs are a hairstyle but not JUST...they are also a declaration of PRIDE (not militancy)! I am proud of my kinks and sometime the "it's just hair" statement doesn't ring true for me. It's my look, some of my idealogies, a peak inside of who I am (moody, fun, complicated, exciting, inviting etc.). It's not just hair it is an extension of me!

3. I really like my hair this way! Sometimes I see a straight flowy hair do and I admire it...I may even get nostalgic for my loose hair every so often....But trust me when I say I REALLY LIKE MY HAIR THIS WAY! I can't think of anything that I can't do or won't be able to do with my locked hair that a loose nappy or a straight haired person can do. It is liberating to feel this good about my hair in it's naturalness.

4. I still don't like my hair every single day but I can say that 85% or more of the time I am pleased with it and 95% of the time I feel FREE more free than ever before! The other 5% that I don't feel as free is coming from my current situation of needing to interview for jobs in a conservative industry (lol)...but this too shall pass!

5. With all the above said most of the people still have no idea I am locking and I don't appreciate that (LOL)!!! They think it just some frizzy curly hairstyle. When will they start to look and take notice that I am locking my darn hair? No it is not just fuzzy for no reason! Okay the rant is over (-:

6. I have a long way to go on the journey to total locdom. I will try to enjoy each stage with these babies just as I have with my daughter because once the stage/moment has passed there is no going back!

Peace,

Tra

My SUPASTAR!

2006-04-05T12:17:00.000-07:00

So much of what I talk about is hair related and before I am through with this post it too will relate to hair (lol). But before I go there I want to talk a second about about having a daughter. She is one supercalafranjalisticexpealadoches lil momma! That is the only way I can explain how extra dramatic, extra cute, and extra special I think my baby is. Being her momma makes me "extra" too! I could go on and on about her but I get nervous about that for some reason on the internet. Anyway the pics are from a very cute tea party that we attended back in February.

On to the hair (hehehe). I just love her hair on these pics and I did it myself. I don't have mad hair skilz but I do okay from time to time. My baby is the only one that doesn't have hair straightened (blow dried, kiddie permed, or pressed) at these functions. I will be super honest though and say that the other little girls still look absolutely adorable with their hair do's and the moms all seem to take great care of their girls hair. Since I didn't get permission from the other mom's I am not posting pics with the other girls.

Just basking in the light of my supastar!

Tra

Whatcha Gon Do?

2006-04-05T08:00:00.000-07:00

I am participating in a Career Development class with the hopes of gaining a position in Pharmaceutical Sales. This is something that I am very excited about. We were interviewed and selected to participate in this class and I made the cut. Yaaay Me! Last night was the beginning of the session. During the course of last night's session our instructors addressed appropriate attire and appearance for interviewing in this industry. "We are here to help you", "We know what they are looking for and don't want you to be taken out of running because of something small" "Once you get the job you can do what you want". All of this was said and then the list began: dark suits not seperates (black, navy, charcoal gray) and white shirts are the uniform (skirt suits for women)...okay cool! Men shouldn't wear beards and goatees for interview time....okay not applicable to me....Women don't wear hoop earrings (wear studs) and no loud perfumes (cologne for men)...alright no problem! Then here comes the doozey in the same breath as "don't take it personal" it was also said "we may advise you to get a perm"...STOP THE PRESS! I will admit this did not shock me, however I am the ONLY woman in the class with a natural hairstyle so YOU KNOW they were talking to me. So here comes the question in my mind "Tra, whatcha gon do girl?". I have thought and thought about this because I knew going in that this industry is extremely conservative (at least as you are trying to get in the door). It didn't help matters that one instructor compared cutting his beard off to a woman "needing" a perm. Please, now that is not even in the same ball park but I suppose if you find it abnormal or strange for and AA woman NOT to straighten her hair then drawing the comparison is not too far fetched for you.
I am not angry at our instructors, they are keeping it real (regarding industry expectations) even if they don't want you to do the same with your hair (lol). However I do hope they realize that no matter what my hair looks like (loc'd or straight) the interviewer will still be staring into the eyes of a AA woman. I wouldn't be any less AA with my hair straightened nor would I want to be. They will see it and it will either work for me or against me but no matter what, it will be a constant.
So back to the question "Tra, whatcha gon do girl?".

Answer:
I will buy a slamming wig! Once I get my foot in the door I will be rocking the locs to my office calls and being the ultimate sales professional all the while. A grown woman has to do what a grown woman has to do.

This pic was taken in 2002 when I rocked tiny twist and my nose was pierced. I stopped wearing my nose ring after two and a half years because it never healed they way it should have.

Here's hoping it will all work in my favor,

Tra

5 Day Old Soft Spike Curls

2006-03-29T15:15:00.000-08:00

This is what is left of my soft spike curls. They honestly look better in person than what the pics are showing and I will probably wear then for two more days (lol)....you know the saying "ride it until the wheels fall off". Even though I didn't get the intended ringlets that are supposed to happen I did acheive some awesome curls.

Since I am working on a career change and will need to be able to put my most professional foot forward this hairstyle will be worked into the routine pretty often. It is definitely looking short but I still like that because it gives me a "fun" look.

I must admit that I am starting to rethink the tightening my own locks thing. They just don't feel snug like they do when I go see my loctician. Plus I married a few of them and had to cut them apart and now have thinner hair at the root bed...UGGGGGH! I am jacking things up. Did this happen to anyone else? How did you unmarry them? I may be heading to the "shop" to get "fixed" real soon.

Holla,

Tra

Soft Spike Curl set- I like I like!

2006-03-24T11:37:00.000-08:00

Soft Spike Curls: Retro Perfection! (the continued)

2006-03-24T10:14:00.000-08:00

Oh yes I worked it out and quite to my liking. I had to get into a "retro" frame of mine and go somewhat "Lena Horne" on ya'll with my soft spike curls (at least in my mind lol). See it is ok for your style to be retro but not OLD (as in tired or played)! I am not having it! So this style is my Tribute to the greats: Lena Horn (aforementioned), Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, and Dorothy Dandridge.
Now if I was Brunsli I would probably provide a link that you could click on to see a pic of each of these FABULOUS women of color, but alas I am not, so find it on your (LMAO)....boy Friday's really make me show out....seriously though I may come back and add those in.
Back to my "retro" hair. I really dig the way I have a short funky but classy do without cutting it. This is cute to me! It can also work as a professional do and if I was going out this weekend I would let the curls fall a bit more and create a curly mowhawk....can you say FIRE! Yes that would be H O T!
So all in all this is a pretty cool experience. I am sure I won't be doing it again for a while so I am hoping my relationship with the curls won't too short. I need time for my arms to recover from all that work (lol).

Ciao baby (that seems retro enough to close with),

Tra

Soft Spike Curlers- What the Hell or Hell Yes?

2006-03-24T08:53:00.000-08:00

Yep that is the question! I have purchased some of everything pertaining to hair over the last month (SL magazine, Oyin Hair Products, Nappylocs Kit, Dreadsock, and Soft Spike Curlers). My husband has made a few sarcastic remarks but ummm since he got a REALLY good b-day gift he can rest his lips together...a nice way to say HUSH IT (hehehe)!
Well since I have been feeling so lazy and freestylin like it is going out style I hadn't tried my SS Curlers yet. We interrupt this broacast for a Public Service Announcement......I HAVE BEEF WITH ALL MY INTERNET FRIENDS who have gone before me using the SS curlers and didn't tell me that it was going to take forever and a day to put those bad boys in (2 hours I think 70 curlers)….Now back to regularly scheduled program…Last night I decided to wash my hair and use the SS Curlers. I also did the ACV rinse again but this time I did it before my shampoo. I think I like this method better but not sure if it truly serves the purpose. So here are my pics before and after. You will note that my set doesn’t look a thing like the cute little white girl on the website. Also the expression that I had on my face for the photo when I had them all out was “What the hell?”. Yes folks I was thinking “Ohhh No, I can’t rock this” I looked like Aunt Esther from Sanford and Son (lol). Well of course the diva in me came out and I figured that these curls are workable and I just needed to change my line of thinking.

To be continued……

Down Like Four Flat Tires!

2006-03-24T08:41:00.000-08:00

Last week Jazzi left that comment for me saying that she and I are "Down Like Four Flat Tires".
I have always loved that saying, so much so that I used it in a song that a friend and I did a few years ago and it turned out really dope. I am not going to publish it here because I am not so sure that the copyright was filed (lol).
On to the not so dope...yesterday I ran over a curb and got a flat (thankfully not four). The picture above is my pancake tire. So as I am sitting there waiting to be rescued by the roadside assistance that I pay for via my cell. I decide to break out my nappy loc tool and continue to practice tightening my hair. I had canceled my hair appt. for a retightening yesterday due to other obligations and it is a good thing because I would not have made it. I guess that's the breaks! In any case I am doing "ok" with this nappyloc tool and I think sometime in the near future we will be down like four flats!

Holla,

Tra

Sisterlock Gathering Part III

2006-03-24T08:28:00.000-08:00

Even though it was raining cats, dogs, and fat cows we still managed to get together and have a great time! We had a nice mix of locs too. It was awesome to see the beautiful traditional locs as well as the Sisterlocks and everything in betweend (lol). I was in awe of those that traveled from Marlon and Waco, TX in the weather we were having. Everyone making home safely was a true blessing.

The pictures were taken by Detra's darling little niece and Detra was kind enough to share them. The sister's in locs of the DFW (especially Karen) pulled off a beautiful and warm spirited event. I am happy to know these ladies and hope you can feel the spirit of the event with a few pictures.

Tra

Bantu Knot Set

2006-03-23T08:59:00.000-08:00

I put approximately 25 bantu knots in to my hair and slept on them. When I took them down this was the effect. My hair is looking more and more like a bob these days. I wonder if that is an affect of the shrinkage and the MINUTE amount of clipping I have been doing (teehee). Of course this style did not last past one day but it was also very rainy on this day as well. I didn't lose any sleep over not having a long lasting relationship with this style as you can see it was nothing to write home about (lol).

I have noticed that as my locs in the back tighten up from shrinkage and locing they are more diffiicult to manipulate. I suppose that is why I have been so lazy and and just doing the freestyle thing. Needless to say I am back to freestylin'. I may however be trying out my soft spike curlers pretty soon. No promises though I am feeling so lazy about my hair these days. I have more updates to come but alas I am feeling lazy about my blog too (lol).

Holla,

Tra

Puffed Up and Budded Out!

2006-03-14T08:04:00.000-08:00

My locs are really starting to bud in the back region of my hair. All of my close up seem to portray curly's but in truth some of my locs are actually getting firm and looking quite loc'ish! The pic above is one of many locs at the center/back of my head that has started to bud up. The pic to the lower left displays some of my loc puffiness. None of these shots capture the color of my hair accurately. There is only so much a camera phone can do (lol). Anyhoo here is my picture proof that I do have more than a head full of curlies, not that I am not embracing and loving them. I am just happy to have some locing going on up in here!

Professionally Extreme Hair

2006-03-10T09:14:00.000-08:00

A few weeks back there was an article about a historically black university (Hampton University) banning the business major students from wearing locs and cornrows. Afros, tapered and neat; are acceptable. So of course I lost my "natural" mind when I read this crap. Furthermore locs and cornrows were described as extreme hairdo's. Once again I LOST MY NATURAL MIND (lol). There was a time when an afro was also considered extreme. I could hardly understand how letting your hair do what it naturally does could be considered MORE extreme than lying lye on it every few weeks to keep hidden the truth of your kinkyness (said with a wink). MMMMHHHHMMMM that's right we are all a bit KINKY...and some of us not just were hair is concerned (yes I had to be blatant coy is not one of my qualities (hehehe)). Anyhoo I digress, so here is a quote from the article on all this hair hoopla:
"Credle (Dean of Business) said the dress, grooming and behavior rules are intended to prepare students for the starched business world."When we look at the top 75 African Americans in corporate America,we don't see any of them with extreme hairdos," he said."

Although many of us have expressed our outrage about this already. I didn't get around to blogging about it so I am doing so today. Additionally I am throwing in a few bonus shots of how completely professional I can make my utterly extreme hair look. These pics were taken a couple of weeks ago when I was going on a ride day with a Pharmaceutical Sales Representative. Since we were going to be visitiing physician offices I suited up, up do'd the hair, and made it all do what it's gon do baby...yeeeah! I thought I was extremely cute!

Side note1: This is a Friday and I am in a good mood hence all the silliness going on with what should have been a very"professional post" (lol).

Side note 2: I am trying desperately to get into the industry of Pharmaceutical Sales (so is half of the nation I know). If you are a rep or know of any in the DFW Metro area please contact me. Networking is one of the most important ingredients (beyond sales expereince) to obtain one of these positions.

I'm out,

Tra

Retightening and Da Snood!

2006-03-01T13:19:00.000-08:00

Hey folks I am back and feeling a lot better about my hair. A big part of that is because I had my retightening done yesterday HALLELUJAH!!! It was so necessary. It took 3.0 hours which is 30 minutes more than the last time. I was hoping to get a 2.0 hour session in but I guess that wasn't in the cards. In any case I am set to go back at 3 weeks because the 4th week is to busy for me and sooner is better than later right now!

So the second reason I am feeling fine is that a friend here at work made me a Snood. I saw on Nappturality that everyone was on the hunt for one and I too fell in love with it. After showing a pic to my co-worker she decided to try and make one for me. She is super handy with a crochet needle so her first attempt is none too shabby.

What's more is that they all knew that when she gave it to me I would just brag and brag about it and throw in their faces that they didn't have one, (hehehehe). Things went just as predicted, I showed out! I was telling them that since they didn't wear locs they couldn't wear a snood either (lol). Well the joke was on me because those heifers had all tried on my snood, and taken pictures in it, and sent them to me in email (HA!). They each had catchy little subject lines like "Ye ain't fresh az I'm iz", "Stop Hatin" and "Never knew a Snood could be so hot". I died laughing because they really got me good. In honor of the "Snood Envy" that I received a collage was put together. Needless to say they all look like cafeteria ladies compared to me (that's right I said it).
I love these chicks!

I hope everyone is feeling "fresh as Im iz" today!

Tra

So I keep telling myself.....

2006-02-24T11:27:00.000-08:00

"Hey don't worry about your locs just be free", "no they won't look like sisterlocks but they will be beautiful anyway", "even if my locs are a little big they will still be stylable", and so on and so.......

Folks, I do really good most days but lately I am having to give myself this speech more and more often. I know that no two head of locs will be the same. I want to believe that I am progressive enough to truly be at peace with that. So why in the H E Double Hockey Sticks am I feeling....gasp!!!....insecure with my decision to braidlock? I don't freaking know but I can't stand feeling this way and so I had to let it out here... out into internet space in hopes of releasing it from my personal space (soul). Yes I really like sisterlocks, yes I do wish I could have fit them into my budget, and yes I have seen more than my share of really awesome braidlocks that have matured beautifully.

Just the other day I said to my best friend I know that my locs are going to be the bomb. So why can't I say that today? Perhaps tomorrow I will be back to me, but until then, I'll just keep telling myself......

Edited: You know as I am sitting here reading my blog it dawned on my that another reason for the unhappy hair blah is that it is time for a retighten. Thankfully that is scheduled for this Tuesday coming up!!!!

Tra

Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse

2006-02-21T06:57:00.000-08:00

(this is me with my hair flipped to the front....the curly q's are hanging strong).

On Sunday I washed my hair with my usual mix of Suave Clarifying/Suave Conditioning Shampoo mix. Since I had just bought the Bragg brand of ACV I was determined to give it a shot and find out what the big hoop was about. I used one ounce of ACV and four ounces of water to create the rinse. A lot of ladies on Nappturality rave about the ACV rinse and how soft and fluffy their locs are after using this stuff. Well for me there was no soft fluffiness to my locs after they dried. They aren't hard but they aren't soft either. Two good things did happen though. My scalp is not itchy of course (that could also be due to the lavendar tea tree oil that I use in my spritz) and the area in the back of my head that seemed to have a lot of build up feels clean. I will admit that I was pretty concerened about the smell of this stuff but am happy to report that though it is strong coming out of the bottle once your hair is thoroughly rinsed the smell does not linger.

On another note I have also trimmed my hair a bit on the sides but I doubt it is noticeable. My loctician also has me on a 4 week retightening schedule. I am pleased with this because the last time I went at 4 weeks it only took 2.5 hours to get it done and that included a shampoo. Compare that to 5-6 weeks and it taking 4 hours. Maybe if I am lucky it will get down to just 2 hours or even better 1 and 1/2 hours.....now that would be AWESOME (LOL)! I am scheduled for my 4th retightening next week. I am sooo ready to get it done. I know I have some growth but I am also wondering if some of that may just be "slippage". I am not sure...I will ask my loctician.

(on another note: sorry I never got around to doing a black history post. I feel bad about that but nothing came to me.)

Until I blog again,

Tra

4 Months Strong Today!!

2006-02-08T09:52:00.000-08:00

Looky looky I have actually made it through my first tri-mester of being locked (lol). I didn't doubt that I would but for some reason I am excited about my babies being four months old. I can tell that some folks are wondering about what I am doing with my hair but are too polite to ask. Others probably just assume that I have a really old set of micro braid extensions that I need to take down (hehehe).

My maintenance is pretty much the same. I wash every 7-10 days with Suave clarifying shampoo (mixed down with water). I have been freestyling more and more. I usually pull it way from my face because otherwise I will play with it and what not.

I am loving my hair more and more. I can style it in up do's much easier than I was able to do with my loose natural hair. The parts are already there for me and everything. I will have to get around to taking some pics of my hair when I have it up. In the meantime check out the pics below to see how my locs are doing this fine February (black history month). I really should find something to blog about on black history and of course black hair in black history. Gimme a few days and I will see what strikes my fancy. I have been pretty busy with family things (good things) so blogging has been a bit slow for me. This is just a quickie because some of my blog buddies got on to me about needing to do an update (-:

Let's talk soon!

Tra

Cute Cute Cute....My cup runneth over!

2006-01-06T09:20:00.000-08:00

Well, I didn't want to make a big deal of my DH telling me earlier this week that I looked cute and that my hair was "cute". So I didn't post about it but let me tell you, I was BEAMING inside. The thing about it is that my hair was "freestyle" no crinkles, curls, or buns and complimented sans frills.

Then today as I was walking my baby into school and I got a "cute poncho" and two "cute hair" comments from three different folks before I got inside the school. Whew! Talk about a "Good" Friday (-: I am having one!

So I got to work and told my friend PR about it and she decided that I should post it here to my blog ANNNND she snapped a few shots via her camera phone all for me! I told you the "say cheese" side was my favorite part about taking pictures right? Let me also mention that PR was nonplussed when I first told her about me locking my hair. She is coming around slowly and has also doled out a few compliments here and there throughout my 3 month loc journey. She is a funny lady and thought it would be nice for me to allow her to cut one of my loc babies in the middle of my head as a keep sake and also for a good picture of where my locs back there are in the process (unfortunately her camera phone is not giving good texture shots). I of course declined even though she argued that I wouldn't miss it with the mass of hair that I have (LMAO). Gotta love her!

So back to the "cute", if you read my temperament post then you know that I am "supposedly" narcissitic. Well that is only "partially" true. So not getting as many compliments from my favorite admirer (dh) was bugging me a bit. I am sure he still has his "preference" but I am back to knowing that above all that he PREFERS (no matter my hair) me so it is all good!

Loving the love I got today,

Tra

What Shall I Do With Myself?

2006-01-03T10:12:00.000-08:00

So in the spirit of it being a new year and of course the life long journey of finding oneself (at least it has been life long for me) I took yet another internet quiz to tell me about myself. I do believe that there is "some" truth to the below accept that I don't like to draw or paint and taking pictures is usually more fun on the "say cheese" side for me. Unfortunately life is not as easy as an internet quiz and so I am still feeling very "what to do? what to do-ish".

To relate this particular post with my hair I will say that having locs would be of no consequence to any of the choices below for a career. Those choices tend to beckon to a free spirit and locks compliment that well.

You Should Get a MFA (Masters of Fine Arts)

You're a blooming artistic talent, even if you aren't quite convinced.You'd make an incredible artist, photographer, or film maker.

What Advanced Degree Should You Get?

I'm Out!

Tra

My Best and My Worst......ummm OK!

2006-01-02T20:41:00.000-08:00

After visiting Jen's blog I decided to take the temperament test. Below are my results. I would have liked to have been a "mix" of "Choleric" and something else but alas after some truthful responses to a few short questions I am totally "Choleric". Here is the thing some of the things that are stated I have always known about myself but quite a few I thought I had been delivered from. Perhaps I have but I still answer certain ways because I am not sure that I am totally over certain character traits, or maybe I am just justifying the bad things that are listed below (lol). Oh well!

You Have a Choleric Temperament

You are a person of great enthusiasm - easily excited by many things.Unsatisfied by the ordinary, you are reaching for an epic, extraordinary life.You want the best. The best life. The best love. The best reputation.
You posses a sharp and keen intellect. Your mind is your primary weapon.Strong willed, nothing can keep you down. Your energy can break down any wall.You're an instantly passionate person - and this passion gives you an intoxicating power over others.
At your worst, you are a narcissist. Full of yourself and even proud of your faults.Stubborn and opinionated, you know what you think is right. End of discussion.A bit of a misanthrope, you often see others as weak, ignorant, and inferior.

What Temperment Are You?

Pretty Girls Wear 20 Pearls!!

2005-12-29T08:42:00.000-08:00

Hey folks! This post is inspired by some post from Lockitup, the Yahoo chat group that I am a member of. A lot of us belong to different sororities and organizations and with those memberships comes a lot of different stereotypes. One of the most popular is that to be an AKA's you should be light skinned with long hair. Well OBVIOUSLY that is not true and if it ever was true, it was more specific to certain regions, era, and chapter's than it was to the organization as a whole given that all of our beautiful founders weren't "light skinned". Fortunately for me I pledged on a campus (Alpha Zeta chapter baby) where dark, medium, or light skin was not an issue AT ALL. We had the lightest light to the darkest dark in my undergrad chapter and we ALL felt like the BOMB. Our chapter had a high accumulative GPA (avg 3.5), we won sorority of the year every year (during my tenure which I refuse to share (lol)), and we went to regionals (Mid Western) and kicked behind in competition from stepping to academics.

When I decided to go natural I didn't catch any flack from my beautiful sorors. When I decided to lock again NO FLACK. I am not sure if I came across like I didn't want to hear it and if you keep it up I'll kut ya (lol), or if maybe I just kept it flyy so whatcha gon say? In any case I got compliments then and continue to get compliments from my sorors on my hair. I have even inspired a few of them to go back to "natural" and they have stuck with it. Even in all our glorious AKAtude the sorors that I deal with recognize that beauty is not only in lyes and dyes but it comes and in kinks and koils!

This is for you my "oh so cute" , "oh so flyy", and "oh so supportive" sorors!

STEP ON FOR ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA STEP ON FOR AKA!

Skeeeeeweeeeee!

Tra

Lunch @ PFChang's

2005-12-29T08:10:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we had an unofficial Sisterlock DFW gathering. A few of us decided to just meet for lunch. The place PF Chang's (Chinese Bistro) off Frankford and the N. Dallas Tollway, the time 11:30 am. There were four of us meeting. One of our dear dear sistah's (Detra) drove all the way from outside Ft. Worth (which is a serious hike) to meet us for lunch. Even though she got lost and completely frustrated she showed up anyway and after a few "hugs" and a lot of "we are so sorry's" she settled in and we had a TOTAL BLAST!!! Detra is a funny woman even when she isn't trying to be and I was so glad that she came on and decided not to just turn around and go home (which I would have totally understood since being lost is mofo).

Karen and LaChanda gave me advice on house hunting and yes we broke out the SL tools and the Nappylocs tools inspected one anothers heads. That's right we did all of this right at the darn table (LOL). I must state that Lachanda's locs are really looking "locky" and she had on the cutest headband (Above in the yellow sweater). Lachanda and I have the same consultant and she said that our hair texture is a lot a like so I am happy to know that perhaps my locs will do what they are supposed to after all (my ends are extremely curly right now). Karen locs and her color are just fabulous(above in the dark glasses, such a diva). She has so much style and I wish I had gotten her to take a pic of her very funky boots that she had on that I kept forgetting to compliment. Detra has one of the most beautiful smiles I have ever seen(above in the white shirt). I don't have a good shot of her hair but her locs are a few weeks old and of course she is going through the normal concerns and anxiety of dealing with her babies....it is called "newbie drama". I stil have it and am trying to get over it (lol). We also discussed this and hopefully Detra and I will be fine. It was too much fun.

Ladies I had a great time and I am looking forward to our February gathering. I will also be saving my pennies for the trip to NYC to see the Color Purple.

I'm out!

TRA

Holiday Hair - Curls and Crinkles

2005-12-22T08:11:00.000-08:00

Well I don't have any plans to do change my hair up for Christmas day and New Years Eve is looking like a stay at home affair. So I decided to go ahead and post my holiday pics now. Plus I wanted to lighten the mood on my blog after yesterday rant session (lol). Not apologizing...just moving on!

Over Thanksgiving I decided to shower mist my hair and then roll it on the long flexi rods mine are orange and gray...not sure what size. After rolling it up @ 5:30 am me and fam jumped on the highway for a 3-4 hour drive. Upon arrival I took them down and pics below are what I got form the set. Lots of curls and body. I was flipping my head around all day long (lol). These lasted the whole day and nite but were gone the next day as I did little to preserve them in the shower.

The far right pic is of me and my AU NATURALE cousin TC. My mom and sister don't wear perms either but tend to wear there hair straight more times than not (they both have gorgeous heads of long black hair). So TC and I have taken more "nappy head" jabs from the fam (lol). We don't care though because we know it is a beautiful thing plus we always have each other's back.

The pic to the left is of me and my best friend EKT (I love use intials if you haven't noticed). She recently did the big chop (June) much to the chagrin of her own family. Even though this pick doesn't showcase her hair well, trust that she is rocking her TWA like a champ and the "indian in her family" is definitely showing (lol). This is great for her but since there are so many of us who think that the only way one should wear their natural texture is if they do have "indian in their family" seeing EKT's hair may serve as a deterrant (sad but true). She can't count how many times she has been told "if my hair was like yours I would do that too" or "I just can't go natural because I don't have good hair". I am so ready for the revolution to be televised. Anyhoo I digress this is about my holiday hair (lol).

So once again I did the shower mist (hair was already clean), spritz some lottabody setting lotion, parted it down the middle and braided it down, five braids on each side with sponge rollers on the end. Jumped in the car for yet another 4-5 hour drive . However I didn't take the hair down upon arrival I would venture to say that it was close to 8 hours that I kept the plaits in. The results were a very crinkly curly look and the center part created a Harlem Renaissance style bob that I really liked. The crinkles lasted approx. 5 days with keeping it covered at nite and not shower misting.

Wishing all of you a very MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

P.S. THANKS SO MUCH FOR STOPPING BY.

Tra

Makes Me Wanna Holla.....and throw up both my hands!

2005-12-21T08:48:00.000-08:00

I am soooo frustrated with AA men NOT being able to accept and appreciate natural hair that sometimes I want to screammmmm....... I acknowledge that there are some AA men who encourage this but unfortunately I don't run in to very many and definitely don't read about a lot of them. Why is this men? Please don't tell me it is because you want to run your fingers through your woman's hair....we ALL know that when a sistah gets her hair done (fresh perm and style) the last thing she is going to let you do is touch it (LOL)! In fact the "lovin" will only happen in specific positions if her hair do is brand new. To take it a step further if she needs her hair done/"fixed" the last thing she is going to do is let you touch it because of course she doesn't want you rubbing on the "nappy" new growth. Why not? Because that would be tangible proof that her true texture is NO WHERE near the straight stuff that LIES/LYES on top. Not that your behind didn't know that already but most lies start with the ability to fool yourself.

I am constantly reading about someones AA hubby, AA boyfriend, or whatever not wanting them to wear there natural hair. And please let us not even talk about the numerous AA women who have had to overcome Olympic trials while attempting to convince their AA man that they want to lock their hair and why it is a good thing. I have heard so many of our men talk about how much they don't like weave, but as soon as their woman's gets some long straight "down ya back" enhancement they are just LOVING IT! These are the same men that say they "prefer women to wear their own hair". Does that not include wearing her on "texture"? I suppose the "keep it real" mantra only goes so far.

So here I am on my way to a beautiful head full of locks and I am fussing my behind off during the holiday season. I guess I am just not feeling appreciated and needed to vent. Perhaps one day I will be well versed and eloquent enough to make just one or two valid points to our beautiful but brain washed brothas and draw them one step closer to seeing that our natural beauty is a compliment and honor to them and their own natural style, grace, and ever so masculine beauty!

Edited 12-22-05: If you happen to be a fortunate woman who's AA man is loving and supporting your loc decision then please be sure to leave a comment about it. I want to hear about it as I am sure others who read my blog will to. It is just the type of encouragement that we all need!

Still lovin the brothas inspite of.......(insert whatever you like),

Tra

Solidarity Sisters!!!

2005-12-12T11:26:00.000-08:00

I shared DB's story with two of my friends at work. They were both so moved by the effort to show some kind of support to the Berry's that they to put their hair in buns. I thought it a kind gesture and wanted to post a pic of us with our hair buns of solidarity. Ignorance comes in all shades but so does compassion!

Tra

Locs of love for Destini

2005-12-12T07:39:00.000-08:00

Many of you have likely read the story that has been circulating about a young ballerina (picture left) in Memphis, Tennesee. Her name is Destini Berry and she wears sisterlocks. This young girl was being alienated from her recital because she wears locs. To read more on this story and more updates check out the blogs of Brunsli and Leighann .

Today me and several other loc'd folks across the nation decided that in support of this little princess we too would wear our locs in a bun. This is in addition to several emails being sent to the the instructor (Ms. Zissoff) that seems to think that having your hair in locs somehow disrespects the traditon of classical ballet. I hope that the message will get to Destini and her mom that there was a show of support and encouragement for their plight.
Below are pics of me and my little ballerina wearing our hair in buns for DB. I explained the "predjudice" of Destini's hair to my 8 yr. old daughter and she was stunned at how DB was being treated just because of her hair.

Dear Destini,
Dance like nobody is watching and know that your dance is for love and liberation. Be blessed and secure in your inner and outer beauty.

Sincerly,
TRA and family

My Two Month Old Babies!!!

2005-12-07T10:24:00.000-08:00

These are from a cell phone so HUSSSSSH IT about how unclear they are (lol). Anyhoo my locks were started early on Oct 7th and finished early on Oct 8th so I am posting my two month pics today.

I have been freestyling a lot more and I am glad. This means I am not braiding, twisting, rolling, or anything else with my locs (yaaay me). I shower mist them in the morning and spritz with my water-aloe-tui oil concoction every two days. Sometimes more in the front because there I have a bit of dry scalp. Below in this pic you will notice the curlies and it would seem that my braids have unraveled alot but really they haven't. In any case I am content and don't feel like doing anything about them anymore. The back give me the least amount of trouble anyway so I will leave those babies alone.

DON'T forget to wear your buns on December 12th for Destini Berry. Break a leg sweetie....with your very beautiful self!

I'm out!

Tra

Length Shots!

2005-12-07T09:56:00.000-08:00

I don't think my hair has grown any in the two months but I did take some shots of length for later comparison. I can't wait until my locs are at this length WITHOUT being stretched....or better yet when they CAN'T be stretched anymore. WHY??? Because then they will be truly locked (-:

DFW Sisterlock Gathering II- Collages

2005-12-07T09:04:00.000-08:00

The warmth of the smiles in these pictures move me. It is like meeting family that you never knew you had but that welcome you in with open arms. To the right is me with Blaqkofi and LaChanda. Their blogs are linked to mine so go and check them out. The beautiful scenery in the back is right out front of BK's home and it was just glorius. I adore all of the ladies in our group here in DFW.
These are two collages that I snagged from Maryee site (I will remove if you want me too M). I love the side views that Maryee or Jen (they were both snapping) was able to capture. Marilyn has long gray SL's and there was another beautiful sister named Diane that had short gray SL's both of these ladies truly showed the beauty of locs in silver. I hope to one day have that same beautiful color in my crown.
This collage really captures the spirit and comfort of the event. Notice how sincerely joyful every one appears. Trust me it was in the air and I was thrilled to be a part of it.

Sisterlock Gathering DFW Part II

2005-12-05T14:26:00.000-08:00

Oh yes the ladies of DFW have done it again! We gathered, we ate, we shared, we laughed, we strutted, we posed, and most of all we left with our self esteem tanks on FULL! I must say that it is so awesome to be in a room full of women and have them NOT size you up as though your are competition. Everyone was so complimentary and supportive of each other in our entirety. Yes there were long locs and short locs, some not sisterlocks, and even those who had no locs, but we were all so naturally beautiful and appreciative of the time we were sharing. I thank these ladies for this coming together.

There was music shared with us by the talented Jen Evans and the youngest son of BlaqKofi (Kory). They spent maybe 15 minutes together before they played for us. It was so soulful and "natural" and no rehearsal was needed. Maryee shared one of her original pieces with us called "In The Mirror" and even gave each of us a copy to keep for our own collection (Thank You!). We also had readings from the Sisterlock Poetry book which was quite shall I say "breathtaking" (inside joke), and LaChanda's niece blessed us with a powerful original piece! This young lady is indeed a beautiful young talent. All of us together are a testimony not just to sisterlocks, not just to locks, but to sisters! We are powerful, passionate, intelligent, and beautiful black sisters, so address as such!

P.S. Shout out to Blaqkofi who read a beautiful piece of work "Address Me As Such" P.S.S. The scenery in front of Blaqkofi's home is beautiful. The season of fall is in full effect and it shows.

Touching my hair!

2005-12-05T14:16:00.000-08:00

I am constantly doing this! In fact there is now the ever increasing concern that I am going to worry some of my baby locs to death. One day I am going to reach for my favorite section of hair and the locs are going to fall right out! Part of the problem is that I am always on the search for buds. Something, anything to prove that I my hair is indeed on its way to locs. Buds O' Buds where for art thou? In truth I think may have found my first one this Sunday. LaChanda took a pic of it for me (LOL)....when she sends it I will post it. She graciously shared in the moment with me when I found it and is holding the picture hostage until she post it on her blog first (hehehe). Gotta love her!

update update update.................................................................................................
My girl LaChanda hooked me up with the "bud" picture so I am including it. LC also took the pic above of me. I am digi cam challenged so my savvy sistahs hook me up, I am lucky like that (-:. Thanks to all of you who included me in the pics and let me use them to update my blog (hehehe). I need to snag a collage or two from you guys (BK, LC, Detra & Maryee)....can I can I pllleeeeasssse???

First Retightening 5 Weeks 2 days

2005-11-16T12:04:00.000-08:00

Hey folks! I had the retightening done earlier than 6 weeks due to schedule conflicts. I was sooo ready to go and have this done. It makes me feel more like I am really on my way to locs (lol). The downside was that it took 3.5 hours to get my entire head retightened. My loctician was on it though she was not messing around. I just have a lot of hair and a big head. I just recently realized the good thing about me having so much hair is that even with a fresh retighten I don't have that scalpy feeling that some folks get. I am not really bragging (ok I am just a little bit) but it does help me out. So even though there is not much change here are a front and back pic of me two days after my appt. I put in some flexi rods in the front and bantu knots in the back right before my shower then let them stay until I finished dressing for work.

Yes I am a bit shiny, yes one side does hang longer than the other side, and no there is not a lot of hair detail but so what (lol)!
This nappy head is right and tight (-:

Tra

My first loc bun

2005-11-12T06:33:00.000-08:00

I could only get my husband to slow down long enough to take one darn pic of me and my little bun (lol). It is not the greatest pic but I thought the style was semi cute so I am adding it to my blog anyway.

After rinsing my hair I pulled the top up into a ponytail and used open end bobby pins to pin the hair down in a doughnut cirlce to create the bun. I will be so happy when I can do this with all my hair. The back is too short and my sides hang longer than the back does unfortunately.

I think this will be my work hair-do for a while.

Tra

SEPERATISM!!!!!

2005-11-11T15:34:00.000-08:00

I guess I am learning more and more about locs and the varying ideaologies on them. The more I read the more I see Latching vs. Palm Roll, Big locs vs. Small locs, and Maintenance vs. Freeform. WTH is that all about? If you are not totally pleased with your locs one day then some folks act as though you are not "dedicated" enuf to your "journey"......WHATEVER! Nothing is ALL good ALL the time. You can embrace a "stage" of locdom while recognizing that it was not a beautiful thing TO YOU....you are not talking about someone else's locs when you say YOUR hair is a mess. If a person looks at what you call a mess and says "well my hair looks like that all the time" then guess what.....if that persons hair was on your head YOU WOULDN'T LIKE IT! So what is the big deal? I may not like your hair for me, I am still NOT calling your hair a mess. Don't take my "persona"l opinion of my hair as a reflection of yours!

The really funny thing about this post is that I am not having a bad hair day. I was reading about someone else's bad hair day. Go figure, I am all up in arms over someone else's "personal" situation. I guess I will SIMMAHDONNAH (simmer down now) (-:

cracking myself up,

Tra

Braidlocks @4 Weeks

2005-11-07T07:20:00.000-08:00

So now my baby locks are 4 weeks old. I have seen two changes. One has been shrinkage. I honestly am not bugging about that as I knew it would happen and eventually it will go away.
The other change was that my braids started to loosen creating a lattice look in the braid (holes). I became extremely concerned about that as I wasn't sure rather my locks would have weak spots because of this and of course would the holes keep me from maintaing the tiny loc size I desire in maturity.

After talking via email to some wonderful ladies with MUCH experience on braidlocks I was put to ease. I was also given some methods to alleviate the holes (tighten) w/o taking the entire braid down should I grow concerned again. I am so ready for my first retighten which will take place next week. I have no scalp showing and didn't have much showing form day one. I guess that is one good thing about having thick hair.

Shout out to Cherie, Toy, Anais, and Edd-Lania. Edd-Lania even sent me her tel. no so that I could call her to discuss technique. Napputrality and Lockitup are really putting me to be in contact with ladies who care enough give advice to a newbie.

This pic is of a very tired me. I was at the park with my cousins and our kiddies and it was pretty tiring (LOL). Not a detailed pic, will do better as this progresses (lol).

Advocating Natural Hair- A Big Mouth!

2005-10-31T07:46:00.000-08:00

Hey folks! The pic is if my 7yr. daughter in all her natural glory. This pics is relative to my post. Read on and see why (-:!
I was at a gathering of women on Sunday. We were just chatting and having a good time. Well of course hair came up (siiiigh). There were several permies there and I was one of the three nappy heads in the house. As one of the permies stated that she had not permed since March, before I could catch myself I replied "that is really good". Most may ask "So what's wrong with that?". Honestly I don't think anything is wrong with it but apparently I have been more of a "natural" hair advocate than I realized and one of the other permies spoke up and said to me "You're always advocating somebody going natural". I laughed it off but I really hate to be a person that shoves my opinions down someone's throat. Another friend (nappy head) chimed in and somewhat agreed that I was "that person" so I suppose I should just back off a bit (lol). I guess I am just proud to have a head full of healthy natural hair and I can't figure out why someone who wants long hair but not achieving it with chemicals due to constant clipping and breakage wouldn't consider wearing their own natural hair. Let me also mention that the first permie also has daughters who appear to be wearing perms as well and they have not yet hit puberty. I just think it is sad to see broken off edges on little girls because their hair has been permed. This also means that they aren't learning how to deal with their hair in it's natural state as well as being taught that they only look "good" with straight hair. Kind of sad to me, and since this is my blog I can say so (LOL)! I will hopefully be posting pics of my hair on the one month locversary this weekend. In the mean time my baby is rocking rough and tough in her afro puffs!!

Peace Baby,
Tra

One day - One week

2005-10-27T12:53:00.000-07:00

Top: One week later (not a great shot)

Bottom : One day after having them done.

I had rinsed the curls out in the top pic so it was freestyled. I am am loving may hair in both of these pics. I also know that shrinkage is coming and so I need to enjoy it while it last because after my first wash it is going bye-bye.

Sisterlock Brunch Oct 9, 2005

2005-10-27T12:46:00.000-07:00

This was a wonderful gathering with sisterlock sistahs from the Yahoo Lockitup chat group.
I am a member of the group although I don't have SL's. These ladies were all so wonderful in spirit and downright beautiful in person. It was a pleasure to be hanging out with them. The support that I received on my loc journey was just incredible. I am a forever fan of SL's and appreciate being welcomed into the sisterhood of locs.

Shout out to LaChanda, Maryee, Blaqkofi, Jen, Beverly, and Karen.

Before Locs

2005-10-27T12:04:00.000-07:00

Top: 2002 Headshots

Bottom: Family Pics of us in the Bahamas (2002) and me with my hair pressed on Easter (2004)

My natural color is "almost" black. I colored it before putting my locks in but I am sure I will go back to it before long. I love taking family shots. I have more but decided not to add them (LOL).

Loc Beginnings

2005-10-27T11:56:00.000-07:00

Here are before and after pics of me getting my microbraidlocks. We started on Oct 7, 2005 at around 10:30 am and finished on October 8, 2005 around 3:00 am the next morning. It was a very tiring and long process. I give a big shout to my braider (also my friend) Lisa B. for hooking a sister up. Look at that big head and big hair. Lisa had her work cut out for her.

One thing I will advise on is this. If you are certain that you want tiny locs all over then it may be in you and the braider's best interest to split the time up over two days. The reason I say this is because you both start to get tired and when that happens the size of the baby locs will start to vary a bit in areas. In the end I am hoping this won't be a big deal but I thought I would at least put it out there for you.