tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1752646546511186140.post7808756742066191076..comments2023-08-23T03:51:55.709-05:00Comments on Muslim Bushido: Have Your Own "Wildest Dreams Tour," Part 1: Get Your College Body Back!Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger39125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1752646546511186140.post-18079683609405009622009-02-16T17:50:00.000-06:002009-02-16T17:50:00.000-06:00Greetings, Anonymous!Isn't this an exciting idea?!...Greetings, Anonymous!<BR/><BR/>Isn't this an exciting idea?! {smiling while enjoying fond college memories of being "tight and right" at Club Rumpshaker}<BR/><BR/>One of my coworkers has been living vicariously through my efforts. She's been high-energy-repeating the slogan: <EM>"Buy the Size!"</EM> [meaning start buying clothes in the size I wore in college] Her husband is encouraging her to actually start moving herself; instead of only cheerleading. LOL!<BR/><BR/>You're considered "signed up" whenever you start. So, get moving! LOL! And please report back during the weekly check-ins. Please know that something you mention could help and encourage another audience member.<BR/><BR/>Peace, blessings and solidarity.Khadijahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07732325133964607276noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1752646546511186140.post-28182630201842637362009-02-16T16:03:00.000-06:002009-02-16T16:03:00.000-06:00Sign me up. I am inspired. I want to get my lawsc...Sign me up. I am inspired. I want to get my lawschool body back. I was toned and tight. I had one taxi driver tell me that he wished that he could drink my bathwater. LOL!!!!Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1752646546511186140.post-57340252950818054272009-01-16T00:38:00.000-06:002009-01-16T00:38:00.000-06:00Ah yes, gluttony. One of the seven deadly sins: en...Ah yes, gluttony. One of the seven deadly sins: envy, gluttony, greed, lust, pride, sloth and wrath.<BR/><BR/>Many black preachers will spin and holla about sowing a seed, sacrifical giving, special gifting, etc. etc.<BR/><BR/>Bump all that. I'd pay $100 to hear one of 'em preach on one of these bad boys that actually lead to DEATH. <BR/><BR/>Save a life, somebody!<BR/><BR/>(sorry, this is off topic now. I'm thru ;)<BR/><BR/>JJJJhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05908877713350128695noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1752646546511186140.post-81702250861599323192009-01-15T23:25:00.000-06:002009-01-15T23:25:00.000-06:00Greetings, JJ!Your grandmother was wise. What she ...Greetings, JJ!<BR/><BR/>Your grandmother was wise. What she did takes discipline. I admire that. And I admire what you've done to maintain your health! {raised fist salute}<BR/><BR/>You said, <EM>"My cousin in Sacramento told me the buffet restaurants are always full to capacity (I saw it with my own two eyes-there was some big black and latino folks in there, man!) every night of the week. A whole family could be fed to the gills for under $25."</EM><BR/><BR/>Yep. There's a definite downside to these buffet restaurants. On the one hand, it's good that people can eat relatively inexpensively. And there <EM>are</EM> fruits and vegetables served in these places.<BR/><BR/>However, we know what many (most?) people fill up on when they go to these places. The other thing that I find disturbing about these buffet restaurants is that I've seen a lot of children there who appeared to be learning gluttony. {sigh}<BR/><BR/>Peace, blessings and solidarity.Khadijahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07732325133964607276noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1752646546511186140.post-49265497349918249882009-01-15T22:52:00.000-06:002009-01-15T22:52:00.000-06:00I was raised by my grandmother who lived through t...I was raised by my grandmother who lived through the Depression. Her people were farmers and there were years that the homestead was not fruitful. So she grew up learning moderation as a lifestyle.<BR/><BR/>All her adult life she weighed 145. (And this was through some very emotional times in her marriage and in the Civil Rights era). <BR/><BR/>How did she do it? <BR/><BR/>She had a simple "5 lb rule". If she gained 5 pounds, she'd scale back portions and increase her activity level (walking, gardening, exercise bike, etc.) until the extra 5 pounds were gone. <BR/><BR/>Not once in my life did I see her diet. She ate butter, fricaseed chicken, skillet potatoes...just not in great amounts. And each meal always had a vegetable and fruit.<BR/><BR/>As for myself, through the course of having my children (5, including a set of big ol' twins) I've gained and lost 290 pounds!!<BR/><BR/>I have 10 pounds left to be back at my goal weight. <BR/><BR/>I'm now working out to The Firm videos to help with that and to rebuild a muscle base. Although I've lost fat, I've lost a LOT of muscle too. Working a desk job for the past year hasn't helped either.<BR/><BR/>I'm also not a dieter, but instead follow my grandmother's example of moderation and control. She taught me you eat to live, not live to eat.<BR/><BR/>I cook traditional Soul Food primarily at Easter and Christmas. Other than that, I cook foods from many other countries to broaden my family's appreciation of other foods. When my husband and I go out, we typically enjoy a bowl of Vietnamese soup as opposed to a Full Meal Deal. Same price, and the soup is way better for you with lean meats and fresh vegetables.<BR/><BR/>To tell the truth, with a large family I can't afford to be fat. Food in Canada is much more expensive than in the States. Junk food & take out are especially high. I'm always jealous when I see the price of chicken when I'm stateside. Wish I could stock up and take it home! lol<BR/><BR/>Due to the high cost of food, many families HAVE to cook from scratch rather than eat out several times a week. My cousin in Sacramento told me the buffet restaurants are always full to capacity (I saw it with my own two eyes-there was some big black and latino folks in there, man!) every night of the week. A whole family could be fed to the gills for under $25. Here I'd be out at least $50!<BR/><BR/>As for the hair issue-oi vey, what an issue that is. I stopped processing my hair almost 20 years ago at 18. I braid it with a light, all natural oil through it after washing to prevent using high heat all the time. When its dry I unwind the braids and go 'bout my business. <BR/><BR/>Sometimes I will blowdry and flatiron my hair for a different look, but rarely. <BR/><BR/>Being in a totally land-locked province with very dry air year round can wreak havoc on black hair. Additonal drying/damaging processes with always lead to breakage & baldness in this part of the world. <BR/><BR/>You have to work with what you've got. I wish more sisters here would heed my advice and factor in the climate here. Instead they freak out at the idea of not having bone straight or extensioned hair. It inevitably falls out and they wear straight wigs to cover their shame. <BR/><BR/>I've been told my hair is 'disgusting', 'looks like snakes', 'wont hold a press', 'soo wild looking' 'downright scary' by my perm-loving sisters (bless their Dark n' Lovely hearts). <BR/><BR/>I also just trimmed it back 4 inches from being at my waist.<BR/><BR/>JJJJhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05908877713350128695noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1752646546511186140.post-11498994864599020022009-01-11T11:33:00.000-06:002009-01-11T11:33:00.000-06:00Greetings, Nu Girl!Ah, yes, Queen Afua. Bob Law (o...Greetings, Nu Girl!<BR/><BR/>Ah, yes, Queen Afua. Bob Law (one of my favorite talk show hosts) often mentioned her seminars on <EM>Night Talk with Bob Law</EM> around 20 years ago. <EM>Night Talk with Bob Law</EM> was the first nationally syndicated Black talk radio program. It came on the only Black-owned station here in Chicago, WVON.<BR/><BR/>Do we all see how interconnected everything is? <BR/><BR/>I clearly recall Mr. Law having Queen Afua on his show, and he made frequent mention of the health principles she teaches (fasting, etc.). Both of them talked about how Black communities had become overrun with fast-"food" joints. And how consumption of these fake foods are killing us.<BR/><BR/><EM>This</EM> sort of conversation and information is MUCH less likely to be disseminated on White-owned, Clear Channel radio stations. Especially when some of their revenue is coming from these fast food commercials.<BR/><BR/>The disappearing local Black-owned radio station was/is a lifeline for Black people. In MANY way.<BR/><BR/>Pilates is another one of those deceptively easy <EM>appearing</EM> things that will actually kick one's behind like Yoga. I had a Pilates trainer a few years back; it was fun. My trainer was a former professional dancer. <BR/><BR/>People usually don't realize just how much athleticism is involved in dance. Especially if you're a guy who has to lift and carry women while making it all look graceful and effortless.<BR/><BR/>You said, <EM>"Keep It Simple, Keep It Fabulous for 09!"</EM> I LOVE that saying! {raised fist salute}<BR/><BR/>Peace, blessings and solidarity.Khadijahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07732325133964607276noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1752646546511186140.post-16258632539408720742009-01-10T20:54:00.000-06:002009-01-10T20:54:00.000-06:00Hello All,This post is right on time for me as I a...Hello All,<BR/><BR/>This post is right on time for me as I am working on toning my body after having my second child. I make sure that I spend at least 30 minutes on pilates floor exercises every day. I refuse to have to rely on spanks to hold me in, plus they are too hot in the summer months. I have always admired physiques that look like they took discipline to achieve. My goal is not just to be thin, which I already am, but to be strong and toned. A year ago I attended an Alvin Alley production and I was very much inspired by the beautiful & strong bodies of the dancers.<BR/><BR/>I recently took part in a one day fast shut-in hosted by Queen Afua. The information supplied was very helpful. I am now implementing her program now which calls for cutting out or cutting down meat, dairy and white sugar and eating a more holistic diet. I am also taking supplements for the hair that I lost due to post birth hormones.<BR/><BR/>It is time we take care of our bodies now! A lot of Black Women are not leading quality lives and it shows. It is hard to find quality anything in black urban areas; So if it means that I have to travel to Union Square to get to a Whole Foods, then that is what I do.<BR/><BR/>Keep It Simple, Keep It Fabulous for 09!Nu Girlhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/17952923653133867232noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1752646546511186140.post-87139581563057306862009-01-10T06:56:00.000-06:002009-01-10T06:56:00.000-06:00@ anonymiss, I love dessert too!What helps me is N...@ anonymiss, I love dessert too!What helps me is NOT baking at home and NOT eating supermarket dessert. I tell myself if I'm going to have it, it has to be worth the calories!<BR/>So now I have it once or twice a week, but I buy a single serving from a good bakery or restaurant.<BR/><BR/>Also, it helps not to overeat if you drink a full glass of water right before every meal.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1752646546511186140.post-72402250057812152272009-01-10T05:55:00.000-06:002009-01-10T05:55:00.000-06:00Greetings, Anonymiss!I've noticed some differences...Greetings, Anonymiss!<BR/><BR/>I've noticed some differences with restaurant portions while travelling. In general, Chicago portions seem larger than New York portions. And American portions are HUGE compared to the portions I experienced in European restaurants.<BR/><BR/>It's hard to go to smaller portions after one has become used to eating until one feels as full as a tick! LOL! But this is one the permanent changes I might have to embrace. {long sigh}<BR/><BR/>Peace, blessings and solidarity.Khadijahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07732325133964607276noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1752646546511186140.post-15409268744026644202009-01-10T03:39:00.000-06:002009-01-10T03:39:00.000-06:00With regards to hair, my hair's the best that it's...With regards to hair, my hair's the best that it's ever been since going relaxer-free for nearly 2 years.<BR/><BR/>Because I'm able to wash my hair more often, I no longer have dandruff. I use chemical-free hair products that I learned about through the natural hair sites. My hair's so thick and strong. I love it :-) <BR/><BR/>Tight braids did cause some damage to my edges. I haven't braided my hair in months so I'm seeing growth in those damaged areas.Anonymisshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13030472200941563001noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1752646546511186140.post-47751066333187679452009-01-10T03:06:00.000-06:002009-01-10T03:06:00.000-06:00Hey Khadija,My weight became a big issue for me i...Hey Khadija,<BR/>My weight became a big issue for me in college. I gained about 20 lbs when I moved on campus my sophomore year. The weight gain was due to poor eating and stress. Towards graduation, I began to lose lots of weight because I joined a gym and changed my eating habits.<BR/><BR/>I don't know what happened but I gained so much when I got my first job after college. Actually I believe the problem was "relationship weight." I had just met my BF and we both live to eat (LOL).<BR/><BR/>I gradually started to lose weight again but my weight fluctuates at 10 - 15 lbs.<BR/><BR/>I think my problem is that I have an oral fixation. Also, I'm just plain greedy. I grew up on big portions and have struggled with reducing them. I've gotten better but I still have work to do.<BR/><BR/>I've been trying to work out consistently (last week was screwed up because of the birth of my nephew, my sister needing assistance, and the hospital having a McDonald's).<BR/><BR/>I become bored easily and working out becomes a chore. I try to switch up every now and then by taking classes in addition to cardio and weight training. My diet for the most part is pretty good but I have a sweet tooth. I'm still a work in progress.Anonymisshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13030472200941563001noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1752646546511186140.post-90333294284418253082009-01-09T21:10:00.000-06:002009-01-09T21:10:00.000-06:00Greetings, DeStouet!Thank you so much for sharing ...Greetings, DeStouet!<BR/><BR/>Thank you so much for sharing the hair care information! Most laypeople (like me) are completely unaware of this information. I've only found out certain things by happenstance.<BR/><BR/>For example, until recently, I had no idea that making custom wigs is a <STRONG>common</STRONG> hair stylist skill. I, as well as my cancer-stricken relatives, thought that you HAD to go to specialized boutiques for this service. <BR/><BR/>In fact, some of the local hospitals are steering female cancer patients to specific White-owned boutiques for custom-made wigs. I wonder how <EM>that</EM> came about, instead of a general listing with the suggestion to first ask one's regular stylist about this service. I wonder if there are kick-backs involved.<BR/><BR/>Meanwhile, my relatives would have been more comfortable (and less traumatized) if they knew they could have gotten this service from a stylist at their regular Black-owned salons. Most of the stylists I've talked to seem to assume that the general public knows that they provide this service. <BR/><BR/>Well, I had no idea. Neither did my relatives. Neither do many other Black women. Part of the reason why is that hair problems are delicate, sensitive issues that are rarely discussed. Women are too humiliated and embarassed to openly ask many questions about these problems.<BR/><BR/>I'm sure that you've helped a lot of women who are silently reading the information you shared. THANK YOU.<BR/>__________________<BR/><BR/>Greetings, Sister Seeking/Miriam!<BR/><BR/>You're welcome! I want to pay it forward. Other people have blessed me with encouragement and information. Including you and the other readers!<BR/><BR/>In terms of your regimen and plans: YES! YES! YES! Now that's what I'm talking about! {raised fist salute}<BR/><BR/>Peace, blessings and solidarity.Khadijahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07732325133964607276noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1752646546511186140.post-58627220579168619172009-01-09T18:44:00.000-06:002009-01-09T18:44:00.000-06:00Peace & Blessings,@ KhadijaThank you for the c...Peace & Blessings,<BR/><BR/>@ Khadija<BR/><BR/>Thank you for the constant reminders to empower ourselves, and be the best we can be.<BR/><BR/>What I'm doing now:<BR/><BR/>1) Denise Austin aerobic videos in the morning around 5pm<BR/><BR/>2) I now cook and freeze my meals a week in advance because my biggest problem was a) too tired to cook and b) my husband is Senegalese and their food is VERY heavy in starches, oils, and fats. Because I was so tired, I'd eat out or eat my husbands food.<BR/><BR/>3)Strict on my bedtime ALL days of the week now.<BR/><BR/>What I plan to do in the future:<BR/><BR/>1) Purchase a year or two supply of Mary Kay for skin care and make up.<BR/><BR/>2) Go see a dermatologist ( when enrollment for my health insurance starts over lol)<BR/><BR/>This is all for now...<BR/><BR/>Peace and blessingsAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1752646546511186140.post-44082296701935913122009-01-09T11:00:00.000-06:002009-01-09T11:00:00.000-06:00Hi Ladies,I've been on my own "Wildest Dream Tour"...Hi Ladies,<BR/><BR/>I've been on my own "Wildest Dream Tour" since the post about being Flawless. That comment about black women exterior not matching up with their interior struck a chord with me. <BR/><BR/>I'll comment a bit more on that later.<BR/><BR/>I'd like to add a few things to the hair discussion. I was a hair model for six years and I learned a great deal from my hair stylist.<BR/><BR/>Whether your hair is chemically treated or natural, you must find a hair stylist that specializes in "hair care." <BR/><BR/>One of the ways to go about this is good-ole word of mouth...or simply walking into a salon with a hat/scarf on your head and asking what the stylist/salon specializes in. If they say anything but "hair care" walk out. Because you are not looking for a person who is a master of color, or weaves, or short cuts, or braids. <BR/><BR/>You are looking for a person who understands how the body works, the importance of diet, and in addition to taking classes and staying updated on all of the latest techniques with cosmetology -also spends a great deal of money going to classes and seminars that discuss caring for and maintaining all kinds of hair.<BR/><BR/>Once that is established, be honest with your stylist. If he asks you how much water you consume on a daily basis, how much medications you take, tell them. This is not the time to lie. Plus, to be honest, he/she doesn't care. They are just trying to make their job easier.<BR/><BR/>Last thing, whatever products your hair stylist recommends that you purchase, do so -no matter how expensive they are. <BR/><BR/>One of the things, the guy who use to do my hair use to hate more than anything, was when someone was interested in growing their hair back or trying to repair their damaged hair, but would not purchase the necessary products to continue the work he had done in the salon at home. Like buying a bottle of shampoo that cost 23.00 and a bottle of conditioner that cost 19.00 plus whatever other products he believes you need, like sheen, or scalp moisturizer, etc.<BR/><BR/>Instead, they would go to Target and purchase a bottle of Vo5, or Pantene, or some other 3.00 shampoo and conditioner set. It is very important (if you style your own head at home, in between visits) to buy the products your hair stylists recommends, because the products you use on your hair at home, is also part of the regime that he/she is counting on to help assist in getting your hair to grow. If you use something other than what is suggested, you are making them work harder and it will cost you more in the end -because they are going to charge you every time they have to go in, and repair your hair.DeStouethttps://www.blogger.com/profile/02411518412229632680noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1752646546511186140.post-41484448776147330402009-01-09T10:50:00.000-06:002009-01-09T10:50:00.000-06:00Rev. Lisa@ (Rev.) Pioneer Valley WomanGo on gurrrr...Rev. Lisa<BR/><BR/>@ (Rev.) Pioneer Valley Woman<BR/><BR/>Go on gurrrrl, with your bad self! You are the same weight as your high school days?! <BR/><BR/>As Oprah would say: "Wowie kazzowie!"<BR/><BR/>I can not claim that at all...<BR/><BR/>My reply:<BR/><BR/>Thanks! Like I said, I'm no saint, but although I'm about the same weight now, I'm not the same size in terms of looks. <BR/><BR/>It is as though things have shifted over the years, as I have gained weight, lost it and began a more intense work out regime about 10 or so years ago. I'm a bit bigger in the bust and I'm far more muscular (and stronger).PVWhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/12410310404539584350noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1752646546511186140.post-68264445290565852242009-01-09T09:05:00.000-06:002009-01-09T09:05:00.000-06:00Hello there, Lisa!For a lot of women, college was ...Hello there, Lisa!<BR/><BR/>For a lot of women, college was the last time they were really pleased with their bodies.<BR/><BR/>Peace, blessings and solidarity.Khadijahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07732325133964607276noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1752646546511186140.post-74420150419557220672009-01-09T08:36:00.000-06:002009-01-09T08:36:00.000-06:00Aphrodite,It was an audio CD and not a video DVD t...Aphrodite,<BR/><BR/>It was an audio CD and not a video DVD that I compiled with Cha Cha Slide versions. But if you just do as the man says (Martin Lawrence was right. It is like the Black Hokey Pokey) throughout, you'll really get moving and lose some weight.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1752646546511186140.post-80304429414858859912009-01-09T08:35:00.000-06:002009-01-09T08:35:00.000-06:00Hi again,Khadija, I agree with you that natural ha...Hi again,<BR/><BR/>Khadija, I agree with you that natural hair is <B>NOT</B> healthier than permed hair. Great hair condition is the result of many factors and permed hair <B>can be</B> healthy, shiny, full of bounce and very strong from the roots to the shaft.<BR/><BR/>I agree with you that all natural hair is not healthy. There are receding hair lines and bald spots on women who have worn their natural hair for years.<BR/><BR/>I have had natural hair (which really isn't a political issue with black PR women) and I've had permed hair. When I had natural hair, <B>NO ONE</B> even noticed that I had "gone natural".<BR/><BR/>Hair condition <B>will usually</B> improve when the diet and scalf conditions improve. Many women need to ask their stylists to take time to examine their scalp closely for 10-15 minutes. Stylists need to be aware of any changes that take place in the scalp condition and they <B>won't be able to</B> if they aren't familiar with the scalp.<BR/><BR/>Some women "go natural" in an effort to have healthier hair and then they use the wrong ingredients on their hair for their particular hair type. All "black hair" products are not well-formulated.<BR/><BR/>There are some recipes for "home made" hair conditioners that are available on the internet. <BR/><BR/><BR/>@ (Rev.) Pioneer Valley Woman<BR/><BR/>Go on gurrrrl, with your bad self! You are the same weight as your high school days?! <BR/><BR/>As Oprah would say: "Wowie kazzowie!"<BR/><BR/>I can not claim <B>that</B> at all...<BR/><BR/><BR/>@ Khadija<BR/><BR/>Thanks for clarifying the term "college body" because I thought it meant literally "college body"! I had not heard THAT term before - and I'm from the Midwest!<BR/><BR/>You said, <I>"I've heard tales of folks having hot wings and rib tips smuggled into their hospital rooms."</I><BR/><BR/>*LOL* Darn shame.<BR/><BR/>When I was hospitalized years ago, there was a sign in the unit that I was in prohibiting visitors from bringing <B>any food or snacks or beverages</B> into the unit. <BR/><BR/>After days of oatmeal and soups, I had the nerve to ask my armorbearer to bring me a pizza slice from the place three blocks away. (Of course, she staunchly refused....)<BR/><BR/>@ Aphrodite<BR/><BR/>You said:<BR/><I>"The thing that really stung was when my then spiritual mentor turned negative on me. My spirituality is really important to me and in my mind everything is connected. And this was a woman I admired - so I am still puzzled."</I><BR/><BR/>There are many church women who I have listened to over the years that believe it is "vanity" to focus on one's appearance. They feel that we need to shun "ego". I think they have been mistaught if they think that focusing on longevity of our lives has <B>anything at all</B> to do with vanity or ego.<BR/><BR/>They also think it is a "secular" mentality to focus on the exterior more than the interior. I believe that we should not focus <B>MORE</B> on our exterior than we do on our interior but still... <B>we should not</B> downplay the importance of our presentation. It makes a CLEAR statement about how we choose to define ourselves to ourselves and to others.<BR/><BR/><A HREF="http://2008.weblogawards.org/polls/best-small-blog/" REL="nofollow">Peace, blessings and DUNAMIS!<BR/>Lisa</A>LISA VAZQUEZhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13583559303233985031noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1752646546511186140.post-39230510453393753962009-01-09T07:25:00.000-06:002009-01-09T07:25:00.000-06:00To Everyone:Let me note that I'm not going to figh...To Everyone:<BR/><BR/>Let me note that I'm <EM>not</EM> going to fight the "hair wars" here. I've worn both natural and relaxed styles, and I'm not going to berate BW who have relaxed hair. I'm not going to try to browbeat BW into getting natural styles. I am NOT a natural hairstyle evangelist. [I'm not saying that anybody here is doing this; but I want to make this point clear.]<BR/><BR/>As y'all know, I <EM>will</EM> sweat and press folks over matters that I believe are life and death issues (including the life and death of one's spirit). LOL! But I'm not going to do it over hairstyle choices. <BR/><BR/>First, I've also observed some hair-thinning problems that are the result of some natural styles. Second, BW already have plenty of stress heaped on them. I'm not going to add to that pile over some hairstyle choice.<BR/><BR/>Peace, blessings and solidarity.Khadijahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07732325133964607276noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1752646546511186140.post-58355817819912326812009-01-09T07:13:00.000-06:002009-01-09T07:13:00.000-06:00Greetings, Aphrodite!Thank you for your kind words...Greetings, Aphrodite!<BR/><BR/>Thank you for your kind words about the post. I truly appreciate it.<BR/><BR/>Well, I've been sensitized to the female hair thinning/hair loss situation since I observed what was going on with my best friend in high school. Like I said in the post, these hair problems seem to be escalating among BW. <EM>And NOBODY is talking about it.</EM> <BR/><BR/>Hair loss is traumatic for men, but at least there are palatable hairstyles and haircuts for balding men. <EM>There is no such thing for a woman who's having similar problems.</EM><BR/><BR/>It might be best to NOT mention any self-care/self-nurturing things that you're doing to anybody except to people who have already proven that they will be supportive.<BR/><BR/>The unfortunate reality is that most BW are surrounded by <EM>"The Hater's Club for BW"</EM>-type of women. Telling most other BW the self-care things you're doing gives them an opportunity to sabotage your efforts!<BR/><BR/>Peace, blessings and solidarity.Khadijahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07732325133964607276noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1752646546511186140.post-733666442546330142009-01-09T02:16:00.000-06:002009-01-09T02:16:00.000-06:00Hello Khadija, The hair thinning through me for a ...Hello Khadija, <BR/><BR/><BR/>The hair thinning through me for a loop. <BR/><BR/><BR/>I will say that I have never had an issue with thinning hair (knock on wood), but in 07 I made a bad hair decision. <BR/><BR/><BR/>I have been natural for a decade. In 07 my hair was bra strap length, but due to shrinkage it would only come to the tops of my shoulders. I asked my stylist at the time how long it would take for it to show more length and eventually agreed to have a relaxer put in. He told me it would only be in for a few minutes, I would only do this maybe once a year, he would mix it with conditioner...<BR/><BR/><BR/>It was a disaster. My hair was longer, but it was stick straight and stringy. There was no curl and my hair felt like hay. It was so rough I could scrub lasagna pans. He kept telling me the curl would come back, but it never did. My hair would tangle where it was growing in, it started to break off, and I had to just cut some places bc when I washed it it would tangle so badly.<BR/><BR/><BR/>Fast forward to today, I now have about 7-8 inches of hard won new growth. I want to wait until I get about 6-8 more inches of hair growth before I cut off the other ten that is straight.<BR/><BR/><BR/>So as of this month I have started a grow out challenge with a group of women. I am hoping for waist length hair by 2010 and if not - I will settle for bra strap length again by my birthday. <BR/><BR/><BR/><BR/><BR/>As far as college body aka body that I can be pleased with. Thank you again for writing about this - it is very validating and affirming. <BR/><BR/><BR/>I was really concerned about my looks in 2005-2006 and it was amazing to me how people interpreted that as shallow. I wanted to step up my game with enhancing (the good things I have and maybe making inroads to changing things I didn't like into more suitable forms) and preservation (of the good things as I age) in mind. <BR/><BR/><BR/>The thing that really stung was when my then spiritual mentor turned negative on me. My spirituality is really important to me and in my mind everything is connected. And this was a woman I admired - so I am still puzzled.<BR/><BR/><BR/><BR/>At any rate I have made changes to my diet since 2008, but I don't exercise as I should. The thing is I like witchsistah (I think that was a pretty creative idea with the video you made) - prefer dance or maybe walking to anything else.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1752646546511186140.post-7250702447434299632009-01-08T19:50:00.000-06:002009-01-08T19:50:00.000-06:00I'm so with y'all about getting TIGHT AND TONED! ...I'm so with y'all about getting TIGHT AND TONED! Like many here, I was a stick in college and well beyond, but I had no muscle tone and ZEE-ROW muscular strength! I was raised to believe that you only watched your diet and exercized to lose weight/get thinner. So did neither even though a better diet could have helped me with some health issues like the eczema I've been dealing with since I was 3.<BR/><BR/>I decided to get fit about three years ago. My life was very sedentary and my weight went up to 130 lbs. Now, most of y'all are going "And?" but I was a 5'3" chick used to weighing 95-105. And this weight was NOT attractive. It seemed to have settled in my middle, butt, hips and thighs. I knew that my once shrew-like metabolism was finally slowing down (and I was more sedentary than ever before) so I needed to actually MOVE my body in order to keep the weight down.<BR/><BR/>I started by downloading onto my computer different versions of the Cha-Cha Slide until I had about 30 minutes worth. And then, I put on some sweats and gym shoes and did them all for 30 minutes straight, 3 times a week. I tell you, the first few times I did that I felt like I was gonna die. I sweated a couple of rivers too. But I kept at it and lost 20 lbs in 8 weeks.<BR/><BR/>Then I saw that underneath that fat were flabby muscles. THAT had to change, so I started doing crunches on the offdays I wasn't cha-cha sliding. And then I got some 2 pound freeweights and started doing arm exercizes. Two pounds doesn't sound like much until you try to do 20 reps on arms that haven't lifted more than a pencil. After a while of doing these, I graduated to 3 pound weights and my current 5 pound ones. I'm looking to get some 8 pound ones as well.<BR/><BR/>I've since incorporated more leg and core exercizes as well as walking (during nice weather--we got real winter here) and yoga. I'm looking to change up my routine some as I think my body's become accustomed to the current one and I'm not seeing the progress I'm used to (that and holiday over-indulgence taking its toll). I'm thinking of taking a break from some of the weight-training and doing more yoga-type and pilates exercizes.<BR/><BR/>Oh, and I have done and am doing this withOUT a gym or a gym membership. I'm doing this entirely in my home and my neighborhood (a 45 minute, brisk, exercize-paced walk through my 'hood with it's hills is a much better one than on some stationary, level treadmill AND I get to see how Nature's manifesting herself and at the local wildlife--yes, there is wildlife in the city). Ladies, you CAN get fit on the cheap!Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1752646546511186140.post-27477342557624073102009-01-08T18:47:00.000-06:002009-01-08T18:47:00.000-06:00Greetings, Witchsistah!You mentioned "Club Rumpsha...Greetings, Witchsistah!<BR/><BR/>You mentioned "Club Rumpshaker." {loud gales of laughter} I have fond college memories of "Looking for the <EM>Perfect</EM> Beat" in Club Rumpshaker. {chuckling}<BR/><BR/>You said,<EM>"This leads to another reason why BW need to escape the Black-enclave hellholes. Many of them have inadequate grocery stores and markets that supply fresh meat, fish and produce."</EM><BR/><BR/>TOO TRUE! As you observed, what you'll mostly find in stores located in Black areas are <EM>"...Spam in a can and a couple of withered apples from the Carter administration."</EM> <STRONG>This is the reason why many food activists refer to Black residential areas as <EM>"food deserts."</EM></STRONG><BR/>____________________<BR/><BR/>Greetings, Energize!<BR/><BR/>Thank you for your kind words about the post. I truly appreciate it.<BR/><BR/>You noted that <EM>"...all the best health food stores are located in wealthy areas of town and quality food cost more, a lot more."</EM><BR/><BR/>This is generally true. However, sometimes there are ways to work around it. For example, the small grocery stores near university areas (like the one Witchsistah mentioned in her old neighborhood), and some immigrant stores have a large variety of fresh produce at more reasonable prices. The trick is that you have to search for these places.<BR/><BR/>I'm also horrified by how so many Black mothers are having their small daughters' hair permed. It makes me wonder if there are some trifling "I can't spend this type of energy on my daughter's head" issues involved in that decision. <BR/><BR/>On the other hand, I've heard stylists say that it all depends on how well the parent is caring for the child's hair and NUTRITION. Careless combing, never stimulating the scalp with brushing, no nutrition, no oils, etc. also do a lot of damage. Even if the child has a natural hair style.<BR/>_______________________<BR/><BR/>Greetings, CW!<BR/><BR/>YES! YES! YES! Now THAT'S what I'm talking about! {raised fist salute}<BR/>________________________<BR/><BR/>Greetings, Blackout!<BR/><BR/>Welcome aboard! I'm so happy you joined the conversation. Thank you for your kind words about the blog. I truly appreciate it. I'm just trying to pay it forward!<BR/><BR/>You said, <EM>"I am a "veg before 6" person meaning that I am a vegetarian for all meals and snacks before 6pm. For dinner I still try to stick with only lean meats and fish."</EM> <BR/><BR/>What a wonderful idea! Thank you for sharing it. I know for myself that there's NO way that I would be willing to become a vegetarian. I loooove chicken and lamb too much for that. But I <EM>am willing</EM> to become a "vegetarian before 6:00 p.m."<BR/><BR/>I'll start tomorrow! <STRONG>THANK YOU.</STRONG><BR/><BR/>You're quite correct about the toxic effect of overexposure to the airbrushed women that are thrown in our faces (like Beyonce---feh). <BR/><BR/>You made an excellent suggestion when you said, <EM>"I suggest looking at black women in print commercial ads in publications that are not geared towards women. If you play close attention, those women are usually fit, healthy looking, "natural", and attractive."</EM><BR/>_____________________<BR/><BR/>Greetings, Hagar's Daughter!<BR/><BR/>Please know that you are in my prayers. I can't thank you enough for inspiring me to start juicing through your example.<BR/><BR/>Thank you for the standing ovation. I truly appreciate it.<BR/>_________________________<BR/><BR/>Greetings, MangoButtahQueen!<BR/><BR/>Thank you for your kind words about the post. I truly appreciate it.<BR/><BR/>You said, <EM>"Actually I look A LOT better now than when I was in college (I was underweight then)."</EM> This is actually phase #2 of my goal. Ultimately, I want to look <EM>better</EM> than I did in college. I was slender, but not toned. I want to get "tight & right"! LOL! <BR/><BR/>Getting my college body back is just a stepping stone on the way to "tight & right." Although, I don't aspire to get as ripped as Linda Hamilton was in "Terminator 2." After I get my college body back, I'll have to figure out another mental image that I can focus on.<BR/><BR/>You said, <EM>"You are right that there is an epidemic of obesity among us."</EM><BR/><BR/><STRONG>Yes. This obesity epidemic is going to cost MANY Black lives. It's also going to drive many Black families into the poorhouse before they get to the obese relative's gravesite.</STRONG> <BR/><BR/>Just consider the medical expenses for an obese child who develops diabetes, sleep apnea, etc. I've seen many Black wards of the Court foster children who are morbidly obese. Several are so obese that they need special machines at night to make sure that they are still breathing while they sleep.<BR/><BR/>Aside from the emotional, social, etc. impact of obesity on a child's life, <STRONG>who can afford all of this?</STRONG><BR/><BR/>Peace, blessings and solidarity.Khadijahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07732325133964607276noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1752646546511186140.post-17797959543636405032009-01-08T18:17:00.000-06:002009-01-08T18:17:00.000-06:00Mango,Ain't it great when folks think you're in co...Mango,<BR/><BR/>Ain't it great when folks think you're in college and the last time you've seen a campus was when the bus you take on your way to somewhere else passes by one! I get that all the time. I've had folks ask me what my major was when the last time I had one was in the late 80s.<BR/><BR/>I also agree with Blackout's suggestion that BW who are about good physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health take a hiatus (long-term temporary or permanent) from pop culture and fashion magazines. The beauty/fashion industry is run on the insecurities of women. If the majority of women were fine with how they looked those industies'd go bankrupt and disappear.<BR/><BR/>And these industries are run on women's SELF-generated insecurities, not really on what most men REALLY think (as in actually DO what they THINK) even though they often claim they are. Most men who are loudly proclaiming this or that anorexic celebrity chick "hot" end up falling in love with and marrying perfectly normal, average-looking women. Men aren't stupid. As much as they may fantasize about Beyonce, Rhianna, Charlize Theron or Lindsay Lohan, they know that unless they got Brad Pitt/George Clooney looks or Donald Trump money (best if they have both), they're not even going to get a reasonable facsimile of those women. Since they don't want to be alone, they realize they'd better come down to earth and see who they can actually attract.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1752646546511186140.post-46852256293412055502009-01-08T16:11:00.000-06:002009-01-08T16:11:00.000-06:00Bravo for this!!Actually I look A LOT better now t...Bravo for this!!<BR/><BR/>Actually I look A LOT better now than when I was in college (I was underweight then). Now I am at a weight to where I do not look like I'm starving. Thankfully I work part time for a food co-op!<BR/><BR/>With my family history of diabetes it is always on my mind on what I eat food wise. Being that I'm approaching my mid 40's I get mistaken for being in my early - mid 30's. You are right that there is an epidemic of obesity among us. When people ask me if I am a college student they are pretty stunned that I not only am not but that I do not fit into what they are used to seeing for someone my age. <BR/><BR/>I don't own a car and I walk EVERYWHERE, so I'm used to being active all the time. My son's are constantly reminded (since both of their dads have high blood pressure) that it is not in their best interest to do the things that bring on that malady. My oldest swears that I'm a closet vegetarian! LOL!!!MangoButtahQueenhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/14359055134036872664noreply@blogger.com