Got my packages!

I took advatage of the natural hair products that were on sale for Black Friday. I received them all yesterday and couldn't wait to sniff them...and try them,lol.  As always I researched each product that I ordered. I thoroughly checked the ingredients many times over as well as read many product reviews on them. I made a list of things that I absolutely needed so I didn't over indulge and get in tap with my inner "product junkie" ways. I definitely was looking for a deep conditioner and a moisturizer.

I purchased a bottle of Honey Dew hair lotion from Oyin Handmade and decided to give the Juices and Berries a try. I figured I could use it as a leave-in and a mid-week refresher. I bought a microfiber towel from Jessicurl and requested a sample of her deep treatment conditioner. I read mixed reviews about the deep treatment so we'll see how it works for my hair. The last item I purchased was Bee Mine's Moisturizing Deep Conditioner. I read nothing but rave reviews on this product and since I was able to get 25% off I decided to give it a try.

I'm looking forward to trying each of these products and hopefully find staple products for my hair care regimen. Reviews coming soon!

The Fashion Records Spotlight!

Peep this interview on my jewelry line: http://thefashionrecords.com/2011/11/the-fashion-records-spotlight-mesha-ingram/

My 1st Natural Hair meetup

I've been wanting so badly to go to a natural hair meetup this past year. I'm going on my 2nd year of being natural (whooot whooot!) I always see ads on popluar natural hair blogs for meetups in Atlanta and Chicago (which I do plan to attend one in one of these cities in the near future even if I have to go alone). Of course I never seemed to see one being advertised for Tennessee. So, I started to research how I could go about hosting one in Nashville. I have to admit I slacked on the research and planning of one. However, lo and behold one day I decided to type in natural hair in Nashville, TN and came across a website for Natural haired women based out of Nashville. #Exciting! They had a post about a meetup and I imediately signed up for it.

I went alone. No big deal to me. I knew I'd see women with hair like mine and I'd be right at home. I saw an old friend from church and made a new friend. the event was nice. I was surrounded by gorgeous hair. I obtained more info to add to my natural hair research archive. I even won the raffle for the grand prize basket filled with natural hair products and goodies. Yay me! So I'd say my first natural hair meetup experience was a great one! I can't wait to try all my new products!!

I'm a Natural Leader!

I'm loving my natural hair journey so much that I've decided to share it with the world. Check me out on Natural Nashville http://www.natural-nashville.com/2011/11/natural-leader-mesha-let-her-light.html . Maybe I'll be featured on other awesome natural hair sites in the near future ;) Enjoy!

Speaking of hair...

Since my natural hair is out full time now I've been focused on developing a consistent regimen all the while trying not to become a product junkie. Here lately I've been using Shea Moisture's Moisture Retention Shampoo and Conditioner weekly/bi weekly (depends on my schedule if I can wash weekly or every 2 weeks). I've done a couple co-washes with HE's Hello Hydration, just to refresh my hair with moisture so I can re-twist, etc. My hair craves moisture but a natural friend of mine said she heard from one of the natural hair vloggers that once you're out of the TWA stage you shouldn't co-wash. I need to research that one. Last month I purchased Anita Grant's banana rhassoul condish cubes. I think I want to contiune with these cubes as a montly DC. I was rushing when I used it because I had to go to a wedding so I'll do a full review later this month. I still love raw shea butter and moisturize my hair with it. I recently ordered more Shi Naturals Creamy Leave-in (love the original formula) but this time opted for the Najama Heavy Cream formula to see if it would help more. It's so light and creamy and my hair just drinks it right up! I'm going to add a monthly clarifying shampoo session to my regimen with Avalon Organics Lemon Clarifying Shampoo. I tried it last week and like it. My scalp and hair felt clean and soft. I love scalp massages and want to train myself to incorporate these more. I use grapeseed oil as my base and add in a few drops of peppermint oil and a drop or 2 of lavendar oil and it makes a great massage oil. During the week I use a refreshing spritz mix of distilled water and jojoba oil.

My plan is to write down each step and post it on my bathroom mirror until I have it totally down pact. I would love to discover the perfect products for my hair. Nothing against Shea Moisture though. It is very affordable and easily accessible since I live close to Target. It gets the job done, plus it uses shea butter and I love shea butter.

The Hair!

Finally my natural hair is out for public viewing and I love it! After a whole year of covering it up with wigs and weaves, she's finally free! My two year natural hair anniversary is in January 2012! #Excited. I'm so glad I decided to go on this journey. I love my hair. I'm always playing in it (which could become a problem) and changing up my hairstyle. I'm learning to ignore the stares and out of line comments. I just smile and keep it moving. I've learned that no matter what you do there will always be someone who doesn't like it. OH WELL! It's my hair, on my head and I'm gonna let it shine, let it shine, let it shine!

I'm still here ;) and other good stuff

My, my, my it's been a long time since I have updated my blogger. Lots of things have changed for the better. I'm growing deeper with God :). I'm still natural! I've been working on my jewelry line. Today starts off Breast Cancer Awareness month. I've been adding to the Pink for Barbara Collection. I plan on donating a portion of proceeds again this year to research and support via The Sisters Network, Inc. I'm also looking into Y-Me. They seem like a really cool and dedicated organization. I also plan on doing my 30 days of pink this year again. 30 days of pink is where I wear something pink everyday for breast cancer awareness. Exciting!

Check out my new additions to the store here

I've had my hair in a protective style (via sew-ins) for the past 6 months. I wore my real hair out several times this summer and I've obtained so much growth! yay! In a couple weeks the weave is coming out for good. :) I can't wait to wash and condition my hair, and yes, do a length check. My hair is still super thick as ever! Love it!

Lastly, I've been working on my photography skills. It's so fun! I've acted as photographer for a few events and did a photoshoot for my friends sister. I'm thinking of starting a Tumblr and adding my pics there. Idk...

Making "Black Shatter" by OPI Worth Your While

(These are not my nails, they are La La Vasquez's) I had been trying to get my hands on OPI's Black Shatter nail polish. I remember having crackle nail polish when I was younger and I loved it! I am on the waiting list at Trade Secret since this nail polish is all the rage right now.

I love how La La nails are two-toned (pink and white) with the shatter polish over them. Can't wait to try this instead of just putting the shatter over a single shade of nail polish.

Get it Jen!

Jennifer Hudson looked amazing last night as she celebrated her new album (I Remember Me) release! #Motivation

Her CD debuted today, 3-22-11

Why I Rock the Red Pump

"I don't take wearing my pumps lightly and the fact that I am wearing them for a great cause today makes it even more worth it!" -Mesha

I saw Red Pump badges on several blogs last year but didn't really take the time to click on them and see what they were all about. A few weeks ago someone "tweeted" about The Red Pump Project and I felt the urge to see what it was. I immediately fell in love with what it stood for and its purpose and told myself I have to show my support. I began reading the statistics via the Centers for Disease Control and became overcome with emotion. I remember when I was younger (in the 90's) and the media made it seem as if HIV/AIDS was only relevant in Africa and homosexual men and drug users in America. I also remember watching a talk show and seeing Hydeia Broadbent talking aout how she was born with AIDS yet the disease still seemed so far away. I only knew of one family member that contracted and died of AIDS, yet again the disease still seemed so far away. Those stats on CDC's site were so alarming to me. It's real. It's here and it's closer than I think. One of God's purposes for me is to help people(especially young women), whether it's by words or deeds, hugs, smiles, or just listening, I am supposed to help. So if me writing a post about HIV/AIDS Awareness, sending out a tweet or just talking to a random stranger about why this is so important, can help someone realize that this disease is not a game, then I have done my part.

What's important? Awareness.

See this link via redpumpproject.com

Here's what you should know: HIV/AIDS and Women

highlights:
■There are approximately 1.1 million people living with HIV/AIDS in the U.S. & almost 280,000 are women
■In 2006, there were 15,000 new HIV infections and 9,801 AIDS cases diagnosed among women
■There were 3,784 deaths among women with AIDS in 2006
■Among those who are HIV positive, 35% of women were tested for HIV late in their illness (diagnosed with AIDS within one year of testing positive)
■HIV is the 5th leading cause of death in women in the United States, ages 25-44
■The largest number of HIV/AIDS diagnoses during recent years was for women aged 15–39

See link for more...

What is The Red Pump Project?

HIV/AIDS Awareness bracelets

I made these a couple years ago in support of finding a cure for AIDS and decided to share them publicly. I will be rocking mine on March 10th, which just so happens to be National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NWGHAAD). Show your support and purchase yours today! :)

Go to my online store to see these and more of my handcrafted designs:

http://www.meshellnicolejewelry.bigcartel.com/

Wish me luck!

The Mane Source is giving away the much sought after Huetiful Hair Steamer. Yes, Yes, YES I entered the contest. Do you know how beneficial that steamer would be to my hair and skin??? I am so praying I win it :)wish me luck!

Link to my blog on naturallycurly.com below...so far the grow-out challenge is going well for me!

http://www.naturallycurly.com/blog_contests/view_post/kimcolesgrowout/3317 (there's also a link to The Mane Source if you are interested in entering the contest)

Black History Moment: Phillis Wheatley

Phillis Wheatley is known as the first black woman to get her poetry published. She was made a slave around the age of 7 or 8 years old in Boston. She obtained her freedom in England.

It's Heeeeerrrrreeee! Finally!

I have been talking about getting my jewelry line out to the public and I have finally done so. It's definitely been a long time coming and I have such a long way to go. Thank God for it all. Check me out and do check back often for new products. Click the pic to see the store.

xoxo,

Mesha

I'm Snowed in and Dreaming of Spring!

Check out these spring time dreams from ModCloth. They will definitely boost your mood and get you ready for some warm weather and sunshine.

14 Day Give Away from NaturallyCurly

I didn't find this out until yesterday but NaturallyCurly.com is having a 14 Days of Love Give Away. All you have to do is enter your name in the give away, for your chance to win hair care products from their sponsors. You can enter one time each day over the next 14 days. Each day they are giving away something different. Each time you enter your name you better your chance at winning the Grand Prize which is a $1,000 American Express gift card. I have never really been big on entering contests but hey, you never know. They are giving away complete sets from top natural hair brands. I'm hoping I win something, lol!

Best wishes on winning to all who enter!

See here for details.

Go Red!

It's Black History Month and American Heart Month. Show your support in the fight against heart disease by wearing red today. Visit the American Heart Association to find out more ways you can help others and yourself.

Go Red!

Black History Moment: Lisa Price

Lisa Price, creator/founder of Carol's Daughter hair and body products lets us in on her story. Check out thegrio.com for stories on others who are living there dreams!

Black History Moment: Henry "Box" Brown

Henry "Box" Brown (1815-1879?) was a Virginia slave who escaped to freedom by arranging to have himself mailed to Philadelphia abolitionists in a wooden crate. Brown's box traveled by wagon, railroad, steamboat, railroad and ferry. Several times during the 27-hour journey, carriers placed the box upside-down or handled it roughly, but Brown was able to remain still enough to avoid detection.

Remarkable story!

1st Grow Out Challenge post

Click HERE to see my 1st blog post in Kim Cole's Grow Out Challenge...about 200 plus natural and aspiring natural hair'd women have posted their 1st blog. Exciting. Inspiring. I'm ready!

Black History Month 2011

Celebrate the rich history and culture via sites like BlackHistory.com. Challenge yourself to learn something new every day of this month, Make the most of it, educate yourself.

Terrence J's Words of Encouragement via Twitter

I'm taking heed....Read actor, TV host and humanitarian Terrence J's recent Twitter posts:


Today is a new day. A new opprotunity to follow your dreams. Take advantage of this blessing. Take that leap. Whatever your dream is, u have 2 step towards it. The more steps you take the more the universe will conspire to assist you...If you want to run a label, quit your job at the bank & intern at a label. If you want to be a doctor, apply to school today, etc...I wanted to act, so every week I go 2 acting school for 14 hours, study film & actors, read abt projects, etc. Once I took steps, roles came A girl replied, how can I pay my bills if I quit my job 2 follow my dreams? - when following ur dreams u will be temporarily inconvenienced Tyler Perry was HOMELESS years before becoming a MILLIONAIRE. Only you can determine the amount of sacrifice ur dreams are worth. Before 106 I had a job making 30k but I wasnt happy. I quit. Moved to NY, worked small jobs to get by, & lived on @FredWhit FLOOR 8MONTHS! Everybody has a different story. U may have kids, mortgage, bills, etc. But God is powerful. There is always a way to follow your dreams I just meet so many people that want to reach their goals & then complain when it sounds hard! Go watch Pursuit of Happiness lol.

Everyones dreams are different and that what makes them unique. Above all Terrence is right, GOD IS POWERFUL. Trust in Him and He WILL direct your path.

Now Playing: Sing a Song

"When you feel down and out, sing a song...."

I have been dealing with a sinus infection for about a week and I am so ready to be over it because it has put me behind on some goals and deadlines...but today, I have found strength (Thank you Lord)...now let me go get myself together...until next time, enjoy this feel good song by Earth, Wind and Fire:

Now Playing: Goodbye Game by Chrisette Michelle

Totally feeling this song. Another great way to start 2011...."I'm playing my hero...."

103 years of Service and Sisterhood...Happy Founder's Day!

"....dear Alpha Kappa Alpha, hearts that are loyal and hearts that are true...."

I have thoroughly enjoyed all 6 of my years in the First, Finest, Best, SophistAKAted, Educated, Imitated but never, ever duplicated sorority. Skeeeeeeeeee-Weeeeeeeeeeeee!

FA-04-KP

Exuberance #9

VITALITY

Peace and Healing to Haiti

Continue to pray for and show love and support to those still living in Haiti. Have a blessed day!

Game On! My thoughts...

With all the promotion of the hit TV show The Game one couldn't help but anticipate the airing of season 4. The rumors of BET picking up the show proved to be true. I was always a huge fan of the show and all it's drama. I became attached to the characters and could relate to Melanie and Derwin's drama. The hour long episode that came on last night, 1-11-11, was extremely drama-filled. It was as if the writers wanted to squeeze everything we've missed the past two years into that one hour. I watched it at it's original show time and then later on via DVR just to make sure I fully got everything....

Malik is cockier then ever. So is Jason. I'm glad Tee Tee is trying to stand up for himself. I bet after seeing his girlfriend in the hot tub with Malik, he'll be the one to leak that Malik is sleeping with the owner of the Sabers wife. I predicted to my friends that Terrence J's character would play Tasha Mack's new boo....I was right! Terrence is such a cutie! Wonder how long their relationship will last. Kelly Pitts is outta control now. Not sure what to say about her all new everything just yet....Then there's Melanie and Derwin...Melanie done done it now by giving Derwin's son a DNA test. I wonder how long she will hold onto the final results since she already told him DJ wasn't his....even though it was so much in one episode I am looking forward to next week's show.

ALL things are possible...

Just last night my mom was telling me about a video she saw that included a homeless man with a radio announcers voice. This man just so happens to live in our hometown, Columbus, Ohio. Naturally, out of curiosity, I watch the video via Yahoo! and was impressed and wierded out at the same time. So today I am watching the 6:00 news and wouldn't ya know it, there's the homeless guy from the video, all groomed up sitting in front of a radio mic. To top it off the news caster shows a clip of the Cleveland Cavs offering him a j-o-b and being offered $10,000 for mortgage on a home! Wow. The Lord is good and worthy to be praised...It's actually an inspiring story to all those who feel hopeless and that they'll never acheive their dreams. In due time my friends, in due time.

Before After