Piink Camellia's

Signature Nail Color

2010-07-05T09:41:00.000-07:00

I'm one of those women that have a signature nail color. I do venture out from time to time but its a rare occasion and I usually get them repainted shortly after. I've been wearing OPI Heart throb for years. Its great for women of color and is soft, professional, and feminine. There is no duping this color!!

Twist-out Frohawk

2010-07-05T09:31:00.000-07:00

I saw this muy bonita lady on Youtube and she was doing a protective style. I wanted to try her look, so I did the twists and left them in for about a week. The results? A beautiful, well defined, twist-out frohawk. Its hard to see from the pics but there are three flat two strand twists on both side going back, and the rest is out, with the front falling forward.

Hair Pics

2010-05-20T16:52:00.000-07:00

I know I'm the worst blogger ever. I hardly check in and update you guys. But better late then never. If anyone's interested in knowing I'm having another boy! Yeah. I'm so excited for my son. He'll have a best friend to play with (so he can leave mommy alone lol). Aside from that here's a few random pics of my hair. Enjoy :-)

Step away from my Kccc

2010-05-20T16:47:00.000-07:00

My dear husband loves my kccc as much as I do. I'm happy he now understands why I love this styler and wants to indulge in my $30 guilty pleasure but he need to get his own lol.

Pregnancy and Hair

2010-04-06T12:20:00.000-07:00

All pregnancies are different. My first trimester consisted of tons of sleep and drowsiness. My poor husband starved the first three months because the thought of standing in front of the stove , surrounded by all those different smells, made me sick. Poor man survived (thankfully) and was semi-patient along the way. Unfortunately, my hair has suffered the worst. Due to my lack of energy, I've neglected my usual conditioning routine. I allowed myself to run out of hair products and not replenish. So I've been a bad bad girl (lol). If it wasn't for my mom twisting up my hair, I would have knots and split ends right now. In the following weeks to come I need to restock and nurse my hair back to a healthy state. On a good note, I'll have an opportunity to post some product reviews.

Smiles,
Cammyb

My length

2010-02-22T14:11:00.000-08:00

My attempt at the "relaxed look" on natural hair went wrong on two attempts. My ends looked horrible and my hair wouldn't lay down. It looked like a bad blow out. I have a Chi but don't like it at all. I will be not be attempting to straighten my hair again for a long time. But just to give you an idea of how my hair has grown here's a pic of my Valentines Day hair, flat ironed and curled.

Smiles,

Cammyb

I'm Baaackkk!

2010-02-22T14:05:00.000-08:00

To all my followers please except my sincerest apologizes. I know I've been M.I.A. since Christmas but for the last few months I've been really sick. In

the following weeks to come I should be 100% and posting regularly.

Smiles, 1Cammyb

Giovanni

2009-12-28T19:02:00.001-08:00

Every store I visit, I notice that the Giovanni haircare line is on sale. I don't feel wowed by their shampoo's and conditioners because of all the protein. However, there stylers look pretty interesting and I love their body care. I ran across there Exfoliating Body Bar in Hot Chocolate and it was love at first whiff. I cannot wait to do a full review on this body bar So stay tuned....

Wash n' Go

2009-12-28T18:54:00.000-08:00

Ladies, It's been a minute (I know I Know). Shame on me, right?
Well I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas. My dear mother was gracious enough to let me post pictures of her wonderful wash and go today.
Nice, huh??

Spa Experience At Home

2009-12-08T07:55:00.000-08:00

It's a real treat to go to the spa. But sometimes its not conventional or financially smart to spend $300 at the spa, when you could be using that money for a bill or something that's more important. So here are my simple ways to bring the spa experience home on a budget.
First its important to understand that it's not just about the spa treatment but the ambiance and the visual appeal. So in order to recreate the look of a spa you may want to redecorate your bathroom with a few simple things:

White Towels: Clean, fluffy,white towels are ideal for a spa looking bathroom at home. However, if your like me and hate the sterile hospital look, then you can also throw in some neutrals.. like chocolate browns and beige towels.
Check out walmart for various towels options.

Secondly your going to need at least one semi-long neutral bath rug. I personally would recommend a shag rug but any soft rug will do. Bed bath And Beyond has some great options! Sometimes the longer rugs are a little to pricey so feel free to buy a couple cheaper ones and just spread them apart in your bathroom.

It also muy importante to declutter your bathroom counter, tub, and shower stall. I know that's really hard for us product junkies. But its best to use hidden storage so that visually your bathrooms looks more like a spa and less like a beauty supply store lol. The only things you want on the counters are:

A bathroom Ensemble and a cotton ball holder.
(feel free to keep the tooth brush holder hidden)

Some Zen looking candles that look clean and earthy.

As well as some relaxing and tranquil music. For me, that means artist like Amel Larrieux and anything Jazzy.

So now that we have the spa look, we need the spa treatments.
If your spa treatment consist of a nice hot bath. Then you may want to skip the bubbles and just opt for bath soaks or salts. It's important to understand that spas tend to shy away from products that aren't all natural so you want too look for products that do not contain parabens, sulfates, and fillers
For a shower sauna experience its nice to have all the windows closed, so you can have a steamy bathroom. In terms of products you want to look for creamy shower gels and/or body polish.
I personally would recommend Giovanni's Hot Chocolate Body Polish and Alba Botanica Sugar Cane Scrub (yum).

Applying a facial Mask is a step I never skip. Online you can find plenty of homemade recipes but if your lazy like me and would rather buy one, you want to look for a deep penetrating mask or a pore refining mask. So you can have a fresh, glowing face afterwards. Like Burts Bees Pore Refining Mask, and Alba Botanica Deep Sea Facial Mask.
Betonite Clay is my favorite though (not for sensitive skin).

Let me also add that for all my naturals this is a fine time to deep condition your hair. With all the heat and time spent in the bathroom you should put in your deep conditioner, a plastic cap and a twistie turbie.

Spa Accessories are nice to have as well. If you have a bath tub you may want a bath caddy. Also, Ecotools has a great eco-friendly bath accessories that I really love.

Once your done rinsing off and ready to lounge in the comfort of your bed, throw on a nice fluffy robe and you'll feel like a million bucks!

*Disclaimer: I'm in no way affiliated with the companies listed above. All the companies linked above are legit. The candle company above is my moms!

Holiday Nail Color

2009-12-01T19:13:00.000-08:00

First let me say how out of my limit this nail color is for me. I always polish my fingernails in pinkish tones. In the winter I kinda sway towards the warmer pinks. But this holiday color by China Glaze called Joy is so pretty and completely different for me. My nail technician always gets on me about my love for pink all year long and wants me to try new things. So she convinced me to give this a try. 2 weeks max then off it goes.

My lighting sucks but the polish is true to color. So though the pic makes the polish look burgundy it really isn't. It truly is a holiday purple.

Watch what you say...

2009-12-01T19:06:00.000-08:00

Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer. Psalms19:14

Its so easy to gossip. I have to constantly remind myself to not gossip among family, co-workers, and friends. And as a Christian I need to make sure I always represent myself like a child of God. That goes for cursing, speaking of hatefulness, jealousy or malice.

Prayer: Oh Lord, help me to restrain from gossiping. Help me to not indulge in any conversion that isn't pleasing to you. Let the things that come out of my mouth be pure and wholesome. Amen

Deep Condition, Detangle, & Co-Wash

2009-11-23T14:22:00.001-08:00

The title of this post tells it all. I love this conditioner for my hair so much! I only rinse out 75% of the conditioner, then squeeze out any excess water and proceed to style/dry my hair. This big 16oz jar is no more than $3 at Sallys. I can't vouch for the other Lustrasilk conditioners but this one has great slip and does not contain mineral oil. So check it out.

Emerald Smokes

2009-11-18T20:42:00.000-08:00

Maybelline Stylish Smokes Eyeshadow Quad, Emerald Smokes

Price: Approx $5.99
Where: Any drugstore, Target, Walmart
Ingredients: Lots of garbage

They Say:
Four coordinated eye shadows provide fade-proof color that remains true.

Advanced formula glides on effortlessly with superior smoothness
Velvet-tip applicator blends without tugging or pulling
All-day crease-resistant wear
Also available in singles, duos and trios

I say: Love it! Great color payoff, smooth, no fallout, highly pigmented, easy blending. Nothing but positive things to say about it. The only thing I must mention is the fact that I did not follow the directions to a T . I used the highlight color for my inner lid and tear duct as well as a brow highlighter.
Overall : 5
Pictures don't even do this look justice

Toodles

Hear Me Lord

2009-11-18T09:21:00.001-08:00

Psalms 88:1-2
Oh Lord God of my salvation, I have cried day and night before thee: Let my prayer come before thee:incline thine ear unto my cry

Sometimes we feel the need to remind God of our afflictions by pointing out "Hey, Lord...you see my pain, how miserable I've been, my suffering. Take notice and do something about it, I need you" But God already knows what you're thinking before you think it. What you'll say before you say it. He just wants YOU to realize that you need to lean on him and wait. Waiting is hard for us to do but he will never just ignore us or put whatever were going through to the back burner..everything that is meant to be will be, in his time if it be in his will.

Prayer: Lord, You see what it is I'm going through, you know my heart, hear my cry and comfort me. Amen.

Maybelline's Emerald Smokes

2009-11-17T18:18:00.000-08:00

Model not wearing Emerald Smokes in this pic.

So I was drifting down the makeup isle in Walmart, and had to back track when I saw this advertisement of Jessica White for Maybelline. Yes, I got sucked in and bought the pallette she was supposedly wearing. So stay tuned because I'll be trying it out and posting my final results...

Emerald Smokes

Bzzzz Burts Bees

2009-11-17T17:54:00.000-08:00

Burts Bees Natural Acne Solution
Price: $9.99-$17.99
Size: Too Small!
They Say: Natural Acne Solutions™ products are clinically proven to help reduce and prevent acne for naturally clear, smooth and healthy-looking skin. The 4-step product regimen works so well that even a dermatologist’s daughter, Annalisa, chooses Natural Acne Solutions™ products for her skin. Find out more, then skip the synthetics and get beautiful, clear skin, naturally!
I Say: I've purchased everything except the Daily Moisturizing Lotion. I don't have the guts to buy a $17 face lotion right now. Overall I really like everything else. If I can try all the garbage out there on the market why not try something that's potentially better?
The Targeted Spot Treatments stinks (because of the willow bark) and the Pore Refining Scrub is very creamy and leaves your skin feeling soft. It does leave a light film on the skin but I use Witch Hazel as a toner so that solves that problem. The bottles are a little to small. But its really quality vs. quantity. A little goes a long way.
Overall: 4

If you love Burts Bees like I do, run to Target!
During the Holidays they offer gift sets which contain there full sized products. Unlike some companies, they don't cheat you but rather treat you because you get to stock up and save or give it as a 'gift' lol for christmas for only $19.99. Yeah baby!!

Waiting To Do My Hair

2009-11-10T08:08:00.000-08:00

So I ran out of my Afroveda and I placed my order on November 8th. Oh how I hate to wait for my products to come in the mail. Its pretty safe to say that my products may not be here until next week. So what I'll probably end up doing is using my Kinky-Curlys' Spiral Spritz for a few days to just to set my twists along with the few scoops of Shea Amla that I have left. The wait to do my hair how I want it to look, reminds me of when I had a relaxer and how I had to wing it in between my touch ups. I had to be careful not to irritate my scalp, not to scratch and only do low manipulation styles. This wait however is full proof. The only disaster that can occur is if she sends me the wrong products (heaven forbid).

So my husband thinks I'm a real cornball because I am infatuated with Bath & Body Works new Signature Fragrance Collection called Twilight Woods. He feels because I'm a big fan of the new movie Twilight, that I'm jumping on board with the new scent. That sounds preposterous {laughs}. That may have very well have been the companies intention but I stumbled across this great find accidently. But boy, let me tell you ladies...it was love at first whiff.

Bath & Body Works: Twilight Woods

Size: Regular 8oz: $10.50-$29.50 ; Candle $5
They Say: Indulge your senses with our exclusive Twilight Woods, a hypnotic fragrance inspired by a romantic walk in enchanted woods. Fragrance Top Notes: Juicy Berry, Sparkling Mandarin, hint of Coconut Fragrance
Mid Notes: Creamy Frangipani, Soft Mimosa, Wet Honeysuckle, Wild Freesia, Apricot Nectar Fragrance Base Notes: Oud Wood, Skin Musk Captive, Vanilla Milk, Warm Wood
Indulge your senses with our exclusive Twilight Woods, a hypnotic fragrance inspired by a romantic walk in enchanted wood.

I Say: I'm really enjoying this fragrance. I was really trying to stay clear of un-natural body care but as you ladies can tell, I'm failing.

Overall: I love this fragrance so much, I'll probably buy the candle. My husband will really think I flew off the deep end then. I'd probably loose my mind if he came home with a Versace Blue Jeans Candle. I'd probably blow that sucker out first chance I got.

Smiles,
Cammyb

God Is Love

2009-11-09T18:20:00.000-08:00

The Lord is my light and my salvation;whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?-Psalms 27:1 The world can be a scary place. It's so easy to be afraid and fearful. But with God, we can lay all of our burdens unto him and let him handle it. The world isn't a match for God, he wins hands down. Stand behind him and let him take control of all your tough situations.

Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord.-Psalms 27:14
It can be hard for us to just sit around and wait when we're anxious, worried, or excited about something. But God knows the desires of our heart. Take the waiting period and use it as a time to build up faith and surrender your all to him; every joy and every cry. For he will take that time to build you up and give you the strength of 10,000 men. Then one day you'll look around and the wait would of been over.

Prayer: Father God, give me the strength to wait on you. Guide my life and open doors that need to be opened and make a way where there seems to be no way. Give me peace that surpasses all understanding, and lead me. In Jesus name I pray..Amen.

-Cammyb

Product Review

2009-11-03T09:09:00.000-08:00

Afroveda's Purr Whipped Jelly

Price: $9 -$24
Size: 8oz-32oz
Ingredients: All Natural!
They Say: ".....It provides SUPERB curl definition and frizz protection, all while providing moisture and sheen. Enriched with natural oils, exotic butters and nourishing extracts and botanicals. This gel will elongate your curls, naturally. Also works great to smooth edges, slick hair and to hold twist and locs in place.
I say: I am highly impressed. This is my favorite styler for my twist-outs. It gives my hair a medium hold and makes my
twist-outs look wonderful! I also use the Jelly to slick back my
hair. No frizzy edges with this product.
Overall: 4.0
Because its all natural and handmade my batch had little hard
particles in it. Hopefully, my next order will have a smoother
consistency.

AfroVeda Update

2009-09-30T06:38:00.001-07:00

So as stated in one of my previous post I purchased the Curly Custard accidentally and decided to try it on my sons hair on a trial basis. Well, I came to the conclusion that it didn't do much for his hair. Thankfully I was able to swap my Curly Custard for the Shea Amla. Here's my review:

Shea Amla Whipped Butter
Price:$9
Size:80z
Score: 5
Overall: Packs a one-two moisture punch! Whipped to perfection
and easy to distribute from hands to hair. However be forewarned that this butter cream smells masculine.
It smells like Frankincense and Mrryh to be exact.

Drug Store Reviews

2009-09-30T06:20:00.000-07:00

Downy Simple Pleasures in Spice Blossom Dare (liquid form)
Ironically this smell compliments Degree's Fine Fragrance Collection in Sexy Intrigue.
Price: $5
Where: Walmart, Supermarket ,etc
Score: 4.5
Overall: This is truly a wash and wear fragranced fabric softener. If you choose not to wear perfume for the day or you forget, with this stuff you'll be smelling good all day! Its very potent so a little bit goes a long way. It will even have your house smelling Spicy as your doing Laundry.
Warning: Men may not like their clothes smelling like perfume lol.

Degree Deodorant in Sexy Intrigue
Price: Approx $5
Where: Drugstores
Score: 5
Overall: Smells really scentual and sexy. Reminds me of some Victoria Secret's scent and I must say its a great antiperspirant.

Cannot forget the matching Body Mist!
Price: Approx $5
Size: 30z
Score: 4
Overall: Smells great! It compliments the deodorant wonderfully. However the smell does fade after about 4 hours.

Ladies If you combine all three of these items you'll be smelling lovely all day long.

Smiles,
Cammyb

2009-09-02T17:44:00.000-07:00

Ladies,

I'm rocking an awesome twist-out today. I'm so happy with the outcome. Hopefully, I can maintain it for at least 3 days.

Review

Vaseline Aloe Fresh Body Gel
Price: $5 at Walmart
Size: 6.8 ounces
They Say: Aloe Fresh Moisturizing Body Gel glides onto skin for a sheer burst of hydration. The light aloe Vera formula conditions while instantly refreshing skin. For daily use all year round - and contains no alcohol. Skin naturally regulates the body's temperature with its own cooling system. But perspiration and heat leave skin feeling hot and sticky, while the environment pulls moisture from skin, leaving skin dry.
I say: It feels like I rubbed Ecostyler all over my body. At first my skin felt sticky, then after a few seconds dry and ashy looking. I felt dirty and it left a residue on my skin. My husband said, "Uhh, babe...I don't like it".
Overall: Its a big no for me
Score: 0...it a no go.

I haven't had tips or acrylic on my nails for over 2 years. I take really good care of my natural nails and take pride in their appearance. Recently, I've had a problem with my nails peeling so I decided to use NailTek (which hasn't really helped). The last nail technician I went to ripped apart my cuticles and they've been dry and raggedy looking ever since. Since moving to Florida I really haven't found a nail technician that's impressed me. The place I currently go to is the best thus far but they're always booked! Anyway, my grandmother treated me to getting my nails done with her this past Tuesday at Walmart. I made it clear I didn't want a male technician yet they gave me one anyway. He kept slapping my hand down to the side once he was done with it and I was really uncomfortable. I asked him before I sat in the chair to be 'gentle'. He nodded in agreement. I reluctantly asked for tips. He did an absolutely horrible job.
1. The Acrylic is too thick
2. The ends of the nails aren't smooth and snag on my clothes
3. He did a sloppy job on the polish (the first polish was streaky, I pointed it out to him and he reluctantly removed it and I chose another)
4. He never touched my cuticles (look closely and you'll notice the raggedy cuticles)
5. He never moisturized or massaged my hands (notice the ashy hands)
6. He was rude (I wanted to kick him under the table)
What made it worse was he was the manager! Had I been by myself, I would have given him a piece of my mind. However, I was with my dear grandma and didn't want to embarrass her and seem unappreciative. But I must get my nails fixed by MY nail technician asap. Times like these make me lose my Christianity.

Sigh,
Cammyb

Twists

2009-08-28T14:26:00.000-07:00

I really dig two-stranded twist. Usually they're done on dry hair using a butter/cream of sorts. Well this time my dear mother, ( kudos to her) did my hair relatively fast, on short notice. I had her use Fruit Of The Earth Aloe Vera gel on top of Donna Marie's Coco Hemp Butter Cream. The results are shiny and firm twist. I feel a fab-twist-out coming on...

The Stupid Things I'm Told

2009-08-13T12:55:00.000-07:00

After having a wonderful vacation, I returned to work refreshed and ready to get my work day started. I was extra friendly, extremely courteous and just warm towards everyone I encountered. Well, my General Manager came to me yesterday and said that a guest who checked out on Saturday ( I was off that day) said that on Friday "The evening front desk girl didn't seem caring. She wasn't mean but she didn't seem that empathetic." So I asked him "Did this guest have an issue that I failed to react towards accordingly?" He said 'no'. That's puzzling. He told me not to worry about it seeing as that very same guest complained about the other front desk 'girl' too. She told him that my co-worker kept saying "not a problem" and that made her mad because that was rude! She wanted to be told, "I'll be happy to serve you." Uhhhh...front desk people relay guest services were not personal guest servants.

A few weeks before I left for my vacation I had a busy weekday at the hotel. One night the laundry attendant was out doing shuttle runs so the responsibility of delivering extra toiletries and other amenities was left up to me. I rarely have a problem doing these errands because It gives me time away from the phone and standing up at the front desk. What I HATE however, is guests asking for me to make up the pullout sofa. This isn't a 5-star, full-service hotel. It's an extended stay INN. We supply all the extra linens in the closet for the pullout couch but yet people still want me to do it. So for that day I was nice enough to make the beds for the guests who asked. What really ticks me off is when I knock on the door, they hand me linens and stare while I make up their bed. How hard is it to throw on a fitted sheet and a blanket? One lady commented "Wow they have you doing everything here (she laughed)." I know you may be thinking "Do you tell these guest that YOU'RE the only one there?" Well, yes I do but the typical response is... "So, who's going to make up my bed?" Then I rush back downstairs to find the phone ringing off the hook and people impatiently waiting to be checked in.
Lesson Learnt: Hurry up and finish college so you can leave this crazy job!

2009-08-06T21:22:00.000-07:00

A few people have asked me what are my thought of this new Mohawk trend on women. Two words...HATE IT. It's not feminine nor attractive. I don't care who rocks it. From the pretty to the ugly, the young to the old...I HATE IT. To each his or her own I guess. But word to the wise if you have a big head, don't do it or a huge forehead (Rihanna) don't do it.

The maintainace of this style is bananas. You wash and set one side of your hair and then get a caesar and a shape up on the other. Do you only pay half price for both? $6 at the barber shop and $10 at the Dominican Hair Dresser?????

Season two of the Real Housewives has rolled around and from the very first episode its full of drama. I love it!! Pure frivolous entertainment but I can't help but get sucked in. Check it out on Bravo every Thursday at 9pm ( Eastern Standard).

Random Thought: Does Sheree' really have nose job?

Valet People cannot drive!!

2009-08-06T20:51:00.000-07:00

Giovanni Tea Tree Triple Treat Invigorating Conditioner

Price: $7.99
Size: 8.5 oz
Where: Target, Wholefoods, Walmart, Online
They Say:Conditioner from Giovanni
Helps Add Body and Shine
Features Natural and Botanical Ingredients
Ideal for Deep Conditioning
I say: No better then Suave. Much better ingredients but its not all that moisturizing. Decent for co-washes.
Overall: Before you go buying the big bottle pick up the travel size from Target. Its only $2

I had the pleasure of having a wonderful vacation in Southern Florida. I stayed at the Renaissance Eden Roc Resort and Spa. I sipped on Mojitos, lounged at the pool, chilled in the sand etc. Well when check out time rolled around it took the Valet guy FOREVER to bring my friends car around so we could leave. As we were waiting I kept commenting on how recklessly they drove people's cars. Well after about 15 minutes, he finally came around with my friends car. As soon as she headed for her trunk to load up the suitcases she noticed the back of the car had been hit. That's when she flipped out. Needless to say she went off at the handles and a claim has been processed and a check will be sent her way as compensation. I'm in love with that hotel but they do need to step it up because I'll be damned If I come back with my car and they scratch it up too.

Sephora's Beauty Insider

2009-07-31T19:35:00.000-07:00

Peach eyes is what I call this eye makeup look. Its fresh and clean looking. This can be achieved with shimmery oranges and muted yellows.

I've been eyeballing Mac's Fix + for a while now and I finally got my hands on it. Yay! So far its working out well. With makeup or without. It feels refreshing and is full of good ingredients. Full review to come.

So my birthday recently passed and I had the pleasure of dropping by Sephora to receive my free gift. They gave me a miniature lip gloss trio. It appeared cakey as if it was a bad batch but when I squeezed some of it out, it appeared fine. Haven't actually tried them yet, but I think Sephora can do ALOT better than that.

Smiles, Cammyb

2009-07-23T19:48:00.000-07:00

So this week I'm rocking my two stranded twist and to do so I used Curls Gel-les'c and I must say it gave great hold (like a gel) and nice shine (like a serum). I've only tried it on my wash and goes so I used what was left to do my entire head. Pictures do my hair no justice but it looks great. Today I covered most of my head with a beanie.

So I've been eyeballing Afroveda for a minute and all of my natural buddies over at NaturallyCurly were raving about her products. I took advantage of the 20% off sale and made 2 purchases. However, I accidentally bought the Curly Custard when I meant to buy the Pur Whipped Gelly. Aw well. Aside from that I bought the Totally Twisted Ginger Almond Butter. Both of which smell divine. Review coming very soon...

The Cost of Beauty

2009-07-18T11:16:00.000-07:00

So the other day I stopped in Trade Secret ( a little beauty bourgeois of sorts) and bought a couple of nail polishes. Of course I had to pick up OPI but when the cashier started ringing up my purchases I noticed some clearance items in a glass bowl. I picked up a light pink Essie nail polish for $2. That's unheard of. Of course my husband was perplexed as to why I spent $30 on 3 nail polishes " in the same damn color". I like pink so all the colors I bought were different hues of pink. He just doesn't get it.
I like to do my own manicures and my favorite top coat is Essie's Three Way Glaze

Price: $8
Size: Average
Where: Nail Salon, Online, Mall
They Say: This all-in-one base coat, strengthener and top coat. The unique formula provides the power of three in one, leaving a super shiny, flawless manicure.
I say: This is my favorite top coat. It makes the dullest nail polish look glossy. My nail polish even last longer with this stuff.
Overall: I highly recommend this.
Score: 5

My second go to Top Coat is Oh So Wet (perverted name for a polish I know) but its good.

Price: $4.29
Size: Average
Where: Sally Beauty Supply
They Say: Apply over any 7-day manicure for a new-manicure look. Quick dry, high shine top coat.
I Say: Its a good alternative if your not looking to spend over $5. It does dry extremely quickly however it has a very strong smell and the bottle is so damn cheap.
Overall: It's good for the price.
Score: 3

So my birthday Is around the Corner and as Sephora Beauty Insider I'm supposed to come into any Sephora store to receive my free birthday gift. Well my friends birthday recently passed and she received 3 Sephora lip glosses. She said and I quote " The Lip glosses I got from Sephora for my birthday were crusty crap.. They look like they just wanted to give them away.".
Goodness, I hope this isn't the case when I go because I will call them out on it. Free or not I don't want the crap of the crop.

What do you ladies think?

The In-Styler ...is it in or out?

2009-07-15T14:21:00.000-07:00

If your an infomercial watcher you may have seen the commercials for the Instyler. You can buy this flat iron/curling iron combo for $14.99, 30 day trial period. If you decide to keep it then you're credit card will be charged 3 payments of $39.99.

Well my grandmother is transitioning and asked me to do her hair with the Instyler. So I did it on freshly washed, semi-damp hair.

Freshly washed and twist taken out.

One side done

Bumped and complete

Overall: Great for transitioning hair.

Next up : Trying it on my natural hair. That will be the real test

Stay tuned ladies...

Smiles,

Cammyb

The Stupid Things I'm Told

2009-07-11T07:29:00.000-07:00

Hey Ladies,

Every weekend I'll be coming to you with the Stupid Things I'm Told segment of my blog.

Working at a Hotel (it sucks) I meet a whole lot of different characters some really pleasant others extremely nasty.

So on Friday I checked in these two older women. One of them said "Aah look at her hair." Her friend nodded and smiled in agreement. I said 'thank you' and proceeded with the checking in process. The same woman doing all the talking then asked me for a high floor. I explained to her that we didn't have any vacant ready rooms on the 3rd floor. Her whole semi-pleasant attitude changed to one of hostility. She then asked me if I were growing dreads? I said "No". She then remarked," Well I guess you like your hair knotted like that." Even her friend was surprised! Her statements blew my mind and quiet honestly I had to just smile and send her about her way.
Lesson Learned: Don't let the words of Wig wearers get you down.

Today on this fabulous Saturday Morning I had the pleasure of saying farewell to all of the wonderful checkouts. Well a very nice woman who checked in on Friday with her family came to me because she had decided to check out a day early. In my pleasant front desk mode I asked "Oh, no...why?" She then explained how this hotel didn't meet the Marriott standards and how her, nor spouse got a wink of sleep due to the lumpy beds. I apologized and gave her a rebate as well as some Marriott Rewards points. She then said " You are so nice and welcoming so I don't understand why the room wasn't up to par?" HOLD UP, STOP THE PRESSES. What the heck does the quality of the room have anything to do with me personally.?I don't do housekeeping.
Lesson Learned: Since people think I own the hotel maybe I should buy stock in the company.

Shampoo Reviews

2009-07-10T09:06:00.000-07:00

Like a lot naturals I try to stay clear of shampoo's that contain sulfate. Even when I had a relaxer the only shampoo I could use that was moisturizing enough that contained sulfates where Creme of Nature Conditioning Shampoo ( too much build up) or The Olive Oil Neutralizing Shampoo (what do I have to neutralize now??) .
But since then I've tried other Shampoos and here are my thoughts and reviews:

Shikai Moisturizing Shampoo
Price: $7.99
Size: 12 oz
Where: Whole foods, Online
They Say: It conditions dry, damaged, or processed hair
I Say: It's good, not super moisturizing but it gets the job done. My hair isnt' squeeky clean after. But I do recommend using a Pre-Shampoo treatment before washing your hair with this stuff.
Score: 3
If your an online shopper they're having a 20% off Spring Special so check it out at www.shikai.com

Kinky-Curly Come Clean
Price: $12
Size: 8 oz
Where: Whole Foods, Online
They Say: It's perfect for dry and damaged hair and gentle enough for everyday use.
I Say: A little goes a long way. All you need is a quarter size and it'll lather your entire head. The suds far exeeded my expectations. My scalp felt thoroughly clean. I wouldn't recommed using this daily (that's just crazy).
Score: 5

Aubrey Organics Honey Suckle Rose Shampoo
Price: $ 9.98
Size: 11 oz
Where: Wholefoods, Health Food Store, Online
They Say: It will rehydrate hair fiber to overcome dryness and brittleness and leave her irresistably fragrant and silky-soft.
I Say: Uhhh, No. Its fragrant but my hair felt dry as a bone. They need to stick with Conditioners and I'll leave it at that.
Score: 1 (for the fragrance)

Chagrin Valley Rosemary Mint Shampoo Bar
Price$ 6.75 Full Size or $2.60 for Sample Bar
Where: Online
They Say: Sweet Almond & Organic Rosa Mosqueta Oils deep-condition & protect, softens hair texture, Organic Aloe Vera replenishes Moisture, etc
I Say: Shampoo Bars aren't for everyone but If you really want to try one out... go for this one. My scalp felt refreshed and my hair felt softer then I expected.
Score: 4

What Shampoo's Do You Ladies Like?

Smiles,
Cammyb

2009-07-09T14:08:00.000-07:00

Get The Glow

This a yesterdays blog entry but my TAKE TWO

We all want our skin to look shimmery, golden, and radiant for the summer months. To get that sun kissed look it starts from head to toe. Here are my personal recommendations for achieving these results:

Jergins Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer.

Score 3.5

Price: approx $8

Smell/Consistency: Light floral scent not too overbearing, thick creamy lotion.

Overall: A great drugstore find.

Urban Decay Flavored Body Powder

Score: 4

Price: Approx $26

Smell: They come in various scents and colors for different skin complexions all of which are yummy.

Overall: It's a sexy item to have because its edible. You'll smell so enticing mosquitos will want a taste too (no seriously).

CoverGirl Queen Collection Moisturizing Foundation

Score : 5

Price: Approx $7

Consistentcy: Nice loose, sheer foundation.Makes a nice tinted moisturizer

Overall: Really nice for Woman of Color because it comes in various shades. Gives a nice light to medium coverage.

CoverGirl Queen Collection Bronzing Powder

Score 3 out of 5

Price: Approx $8

Performance: Nice subtle bronzer, very light, non cakey

Overall: Nice when used with a fluffy powder brush.

OPI Bronzed To Perfections

Price $7

Performance: I'm a big OPI fan so 5

Overall : Quality Nail Laquer

OPI Clubbing Til Sunrise

2009-07-09T12:47:00.001-07:00

Beauty on The Go

Whether your a college student, a working woman or mom, sometimes we are so busy trying to get things done we forget to do things before we leave the house or we just don't bother at all because we don't have the time. Alot of ladies hate big bags and feel its so much easier to just carry around little purses and clutches. But lets be honest here how many times have you looked in your bag, hoping to find something you wish were there?. For me whatever bag I carry it must be able to double as a Diaper bag for my sons snacks, sippie cup, etc. Today as I sat in a 40 minute traffic jam, I thought about all the things I failed to do before I dashed out the door. I wouldn't call these the essentials but this is what I keep in my personal handbag at all times:
1. Midol : You never know when PMS will kick in

2. Sanitary Napkin: Self explanatory
3. Claritin: Summer's here and the pollen count is high
4. Lip Balm: Keep you pout soft and kissable
5. Travel Deodorant: If you forget to apply it at home at least you have backup
6. Hand Sanitizer: Very important especially since we don't wash our hands frequently when were out
7. Hand Lotion: Black may not crack but we sure get ashy quick

All these items are kept in a little makeup pouch. They don't take a lot of space and they really come in handy.

I like the 3-Piece sets because they come in small, medium, and large

so depending on what size handbag your carrying you can switch up makeup pouches .

Cheap yet affordable makeup pouches can be found at the dollar sections at Target along with all the various items you'd need to fill your pouch as well.

What do you ladies have in your makeup pouches? Please dish...

Get to Know Cammyb

2009-07-08T23:11:00.000-07:00

I'm a very passionate person. Im passionate about my family, education and lifestyle. I don't compromise my integrity, morals, nor standards for whats politically correct or a trend. So you can expect to hear the truth and nothing but the honest truth when it comes to my opinion. I went natural for the second and last time in my life and it's one of the best liberating decisions a Woman of Color can make for herself. I'm also a student studying Law. I've always been drawn to the study of politics, policy, and justice so I'm doing what I believe is my calling. From my blog you can expect discussions about : food/diet, fashion/beauty, advice/Q&A, and of course my rants.