The Feisty House

Time for a new watch (no pun intended)

2012-02-01T08:30:00.000-05:00

My 27th birthday is coming up (in a little over a month...does that qualify as "coming up?") and I really want to get some new watches. My Target finds are okay, but I want a real statement-making piece. I saw these watches in a Refinery29 post (love them!)

Appetime

Toy Watch

Flud

I also want a nice mixed metal piece (great versatility). I'm putting my pennies together and hoping I can make something happen. There's so much I want and want to do for my birthday this year. Waaaaaahhhhhhh *real tears* it's getting mad expensive =(

♡Koos

Is the natural hair movement...dead?

2012-01-30T08:30:00.001-05:00

When I first started blogging, EVERYONE was going natural. I had tons of friends (I mean real friends I knew in person) who were checking products, watching YouTube videos, had fotki accounts, were on LHCF...the natural hair movement had INVADED the University of Florida's campus and was going strong all across the country.

Fast forward over two years, and I wonder...are we over 'going natural'? It's like we've all gone natural and we're left with that 'uhh...what now?' sentiment. Maybe we've figured out a regimen, and we're not looking to do anything new with our hair. I dunno. More companies are responding to what our hair actually needs, Essence is FOREVER publishing some article about how important moisture is, ways to stop breakage, etc. Are we still interested in the reasons why someone "big chopped?" Do you care that the chick in the cubicle across from you makes her own shealoe?

Maybe it's just me? What do you think?

♡Koos

All worked up.

2012-01-27T08:30:00.001-05:00

This coat has easily become one of my favorite pieces. Ever. I think I've worn it to work every day since I bought it.

Coat :: Target
Boots :: Charlotte Russe
Tote :: Longchamps

Hair :: Straightened (not for long though...)

♡Koos

Work Hard, Play Hard

2012-01-25T08:30:00.000-05:00

I had to be at work VERY early on Friday the 13th (*insert scary movie music here*) to prepare for my first call with ALL of my state partners. It went really well! It was also really cold. It was so hard to take the pics without my coat.

After work I met up with one of my best friends in life at Zola Wine & Kitchen for a wine tasting. It was a pretty good time. I've never been to a formal wine tasting (just the ones at peoples houses) and I enjoyed it. Zola is also a cute venue.

If you work hard, you owe it to yourself to take time out to relax. There's so much more to life than work!

Boyfriend blazer :: H&M
Cardigan (under the blazer) :: Target
Tiered dress :: Target
Boots :: Charlotte Russe

Hair :: Straightened

♡Koos

Restaurant Week :: La Tasca

2012-01-23T08:30:00.000-05:00

D.C. is the perfect city for foodies. There are SO MANY hip and interesting restaurants, and I haven't even begun to really explore all the wonderful, edible delights that The District has to offer. So when my friend asked if I wanted to go out to eat with her during restaurant week, I was all for it.

La Tasca is a D.C. favorite located in Chinatown (right across from the Metro and Urban Outfitters). Sure, it's awkward to have a Spanish tapas restaurant in the heart of China-town, but the food is really good so...I don't mind. The Restaurant Week special was unlimited tapas for the entire table. I ate way too much =)

D.C.'s weather has been pretty schizo. The night we went to dinner, I was able to wear this cardigan without a long-sleeve blouse underneath, jeggings without tights, and slingbacks. SLINGBACKS!!! I wish every winter was this mild.

Cardigan :: Heritage 81 (Forever 21)
Jeggings :: H&M
Suede slingbacks :: Urban Outfitters
Shoulder bag (worn as clutch) :: Forever 21
"Arm Candy" (that I NEVER wear) :: Target watch, H&M bracelets

Hair :: Straightened...almost wavy but [clearly] the waves dropped -______-

♡Koos

VALENTINE'S GIVEAWAY

2012-01-22T14:30:00.000-05:00

We haven't done a giveaway on this blog in FOREVER, so I figured Valentine's Day is coming up...why not spread a little love to my Faithful Feisty Followers ♡♡♡♡

I'm always here raving about Shea Moisture products, and I want to give you the chance to use them too. I promise you're gonna love them just as much as I do ;) One lucky Feisty will win the following Shea Moisture products--stuff that is part of my regular regimen--and all on me! I really believe in these products so this isn't a sponsored giveaway. I just went to Target and bought stuff :)

Organic Raw Shea Butter Deep Treatment Masque
Organic Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Style Conditioning Milk
Organic Coconut & Hibiscus Hold & Shine Moisture Mist
Organic 100% Shea Butter

Now of course I could just say "First person who responds to this post wins"...but that's too easy. Nope, you'll have to put in a little work. So here's how to enter:

Step 1 ♡ Follow The Feisty House on Bloglovin' (in the spirit of Valentine's Day) and 'like' this post (let's show this blog some love!)
Step 2 ♡ Leave a comment letting me know why you need a new product to love this year
Step 3 ♡ Just sit back and relax...I'll pick someone at random on Valentine's Day (awwwwww)

That's it!

I hope you all decide to participate, but ESPECIALLY those of you who haven't tried Shea Moisture's products yet. And if this goes well, who knows...maybe they'll sponsor a giveaway of their own (now wouldn't that be nice).

♡♡Good Luck♡♡

♡Koos

Rainy Day Hair

2012-01-21T14:30:00.000-05:00

♡Koos

Winter weather? I think not...

2012-01-20T08:30:00.000-05:00

It's January, but I promise you we've had more than our fair share of questionable weather. On one of those randomly warm days, I broke out my long skirt.

Normally this skirt would not be appropriate for winter, but I have a pair of leggings, two pairs of opaque tights, and a pair of socks on underneath. I was almost too warm, so I spent most of the day without my coat. Yes, it's true that some things (crop tops!) should be saved for spring and summer, but this skirt makes layering easy, so as long as it isn't snowing (you wouldn't want to get your hem all wet and dirty), feel free to wear your maxi skirts and dresses year-round!

Peacoat :: H&M
Scarf :: Aldo
Cropped sweater :: Forever 21
Maxi Skirt :: Zara
Boots :: Charlotte Russe

Hair :: Straightened...and attacked by humidity -____-

♡Koos

I need to stay off this website...

2012-01-18T14:30:00.000-05:00

Yep, I went back to River Island :) It's amazing how much actual money I have now that I'm not paying credit card bills! Welp, I guess I can count these as an early birthday present???

I love the gold buttons on the cardigan (and it's much comfier than it looks in the picture). I'm inspired to switch out the buttons on a few of my cardigans at home to make them look more unique and interesting. And I really needed a pair of black booties, so I'm really excited about those! I feel like I'm going to wear that neon green sweater ALL THE TIME. And a lace skirt? I just had to...

♡Koos

Tough meets Girly

2012-01-18T08:30:00.001-05:00

This was a huge trend for 2011, and I think it works best in the fall/winter. This is a dress I bought this summer from Target, and I paired it with a cardigan. Down below I toughened up the look by adding leather leggings and tall, zippered boots. I kept my hair in a ponytail and not only did it work with the outfit, it also protected my hair from the rain. These were definitely the worst two weeks for straight hair. I think I wore it out once -_____-

I really like my new coat. It's incredibly warm, and when I have it on, I instantly look like I tried to put myself together--even if I didn't :)

Dress :: Target
Cardigan :: Target
Leather leggings :: Forever21
Boots :: Charlotte Russe
Coat :: Target
Handbag :: Forever21

Hair :: Straightened, ponytail

♡Koos

New Coat. New Shoes.

2012-01-16T08:30:00.000-05:00

I bought this coat for 50% off at Target the other day. I hesitated making the purchase because the coat definitely had to be tailored. It was such a great coat though, and I could definitely see myself owning it for a long time, so I bought it and took it to Georgetown Valet On 13th Street.

This is the first time I'm wearing these shoes. I bought them months ago! I like them--they have a chunky heel and they're super comfortable. The only thing is I'm kinda over the whole suede shoe fad right now. I like the ones I have, but I don't think I'm going to buy anymore. I feel like all my cute shoes are covered in suede!

Blouse :: H&M
Skirt :: Zara
Shoes :: Make Me Chic
Coat :: Target

Hair :: Straightened (I clipped my own ends!)

♡Koos

WEEKLY WORD

2012-01-15T23:59:00.000-05:00

No, really--what would Jesus do?

"Do nothing [out of] selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. Have this attitude in yourselves, which was also in Christ Jesus..."

~Philippians 2:3-5

I was walking home from the bus stop one night, and a young woman no more than 30 years of age approached me and asked for money so she could get something to eat. I didn't have any cash on me, and I told her that, and kept walking. Usually that excuse works, but this woman continued to follow me and asked if I'd go with her to the Chinese restaurant. There was an ATM there and I could get the money and also buy her a meal. I told her I don't take out money from ATMs and continued to walk home.

I've been asking God for a while now what it is He wants me to do as far as ministry. One of my goals is to begin or lead out in a ministry before I turn 30. That night though, after I got into my new studio (with the car I own in full parked directly out front) and locked my door behind me, turned on my heater, and ate my dinner in my warm bed, I realized that all Jesus has asked me to do is to be like Him. And I wasn't acting like Him at all.

What would Jesus have done that night? He would have made sure that young woman had dinner. Period. I had to be terribly honest with myself and admit that if Jesus were on Earth today, He would not have walked away from that woman. He would have given what her what He had. He would have walked with her to the restaurant if He didn't have cash. I could have afforded to buy that woman groceries for the week, let alone one night's meal. I don't think we realize how wealthy we are, even those of us who claim to be "broke." God has given us so much so that we can in turn give to others. If we, as Christ-ians, claim to represent Christ, we must do as He did. We have to put others before ourselves. As our verse reads, we're to treat others even better than we would treat ourselves.

I'm praying to God for two things: (1) forgiveness for living so selfishly and waiting for the perfect church ministry to come along when I can minister to the people in my community every day, and (2) a mind like His. I want to be able to ask myself "WWJD," and then do as He would.

Just for me. Just because.

2012-01-13T08:30:00.000-05:00

I haven't been shopping in the longest time. I've been working to furnish my new studio (I just bought a futon!) and I've been paying off debt (I have zero balances on my credit cards now!), work has been exhausting, and on top of all that I'm starting a new blog so...I deserved a treat! I bought this dress online at Ruche. I loved the colorblocking, and I don't have anything this color. It looks warm too =)

I'm pretty sure it will fit nicely (I bought a Small). I just hope it's long enough to wear to church o_O

♡Koos

Mad shrinkage

2012-01-11T08:30:00.001-05:00

I very rarely wear a twist-out on my freshly-washed hair because of the shrinkage. Usually I wear a braidout the day after I wash my hair in order to stretch it out, and then I twist for the rest of the week. Lately I've been blowdrying my hair and then flat twisting it. The result is such big, fluffy hair! But I know I can't keep doing that. I've resigned myself to just accept the shrinkage and call it a day. I'd rather have shrunken curls than heat-damaged strands!

♡Koos

You mustn't take yourself too seriously.

2012-01-09T08:30:00.001-05:00

I saw this furry scarf/hat/mitten apparatus in Target one day, and I bought it. On the spot. Then I took it to NY with me one weekend and wore it to go apartment hunting with my boyfriend.

Yes, it's leopard print. Yes, it makes me look like a child (or similarly immature adult), and yes, it makes people stare. But it's super cute!

Sometimes a little whimsy is just fine.

♡Koos

New blog up and running...I think.

2012-01-08T23:35:00.000-05:00

Hello Feisty Ladies!

So as you know, I've started a new blog, 30 "Somethings", to document my attempt to complete 30 different tasks before I turn 30 in about three years (I turn 27 in March!) I'm pretty sure it's live on the web now, so take a look, and let me know what you think!

Oh, and don't worry...I'm still going to blog here at The Feisty House. My goal is to post 3X per week here and twice a week at the other blog. LOL I'm still not sure where I'm going to find the extra time to do all that, but as of right now, I'm totally committed =)

♡Koos

Where are the Black fashion bloggers?

2012-01-08T08:30:00.000-05:00

It seems like everywhere you look the fashion industry is accepting bloggers as legitimate sources of inspiration...and advertising. All my favorite fashion bloggers are sponsored by top names in design (get invites to Fashion Week, wear free clothes, etc.) because of their personal style. I think it's great! There's just one thing missing.

Color.

The fashion/beauty blogging world is very...White. Or maybe it just seems white to me because I'm not in "the loop." Yes, there are some bloggers of Asian descent, which is cool, but...where are the Black girls?

My goals for 2012 are not only to increase The Feisty House's presence on the style "scene," but also bring other Black style blogs to people's attention. That's where you come in =)

Faithful Feisties, I need your help to discover the best Black style bloggers out there! If you happen to be one, then I want to feature YOU on The Feisty House. I want to take the month of February to big up stylish Black women that are doing it big in the blogosphere...or not so big! It doesn't matter. If you know a blogger that needs to be recognized, or you're a blogger that wants to be featured, please send me an email or hit me up on twitter!

thefeistyhouse@gmail.com :: @thefeistyhouse

Get your nominations in by January 31st. I can't wait to explore all these new blogs!

♡Koos

NYE

2012-01-07T08:30:00.001-05:00

This was my best NYE in a long time. It was so much fun. I was so excited about wearing my dress! It's no longer available on River Island, but you can see what it looks like below. And it had an open back! I don't ever dress this--dare I say it--sexy. It was kinda fun ;)

That's me with KP. Her blog BeautyBrainsLife is listed on the "Blogs to Stalk" list to your bottom right =) She's a natural Feisty too, and her hair is WAY LONG (you can't see it in this picture, but it's all down her back). She's definitely my inspiration to keep growing mine out.

Yep, I straightened my hair for NYE, and I'm so glad I did. My hair is back! Finally...it only took an entire year -____- I'm UBER close to BSL, and hopefully I can claim it by March. Why is it taking so long for me to get there! It's not like I'm asking for waist-length or anything...just my bra-strap, that's it!

How was your New Year's? How did you wear your hair?

♡Koos

Bantu Knot Practice

2012-01-06T08:30:00.000-05:00

Ah, yes. I was going to bantu knot my hair for NYE. I'll let you know now that's not what happened (my actual hairstyle is a surprise that I'll share with you later), but I did make an honest effort at practicing. I watched Napptural85's video (it's embedded in this post) and I did the same things, except I flat-twisted my hair instead of...well, whatever she does.

I did the bantu knots on an old twistout. I used Shea Moisture's Hold and Shine Moisture Mist to dampen my hair, and I also used Shea Moisture's Organic Shea Butter to moisturize and stretch my hair out a little. The curls didn't really look like a bantu knot-out the next day...

It was an okay look...not for NYE. It wasn't as big and full and fluffy as I'd imagined. It definitely had movement and bounce, which was really nice, but it could have been so much more. So I scrapped that idea. I was really happy with my hair on NYE, and hopefully you all are too ^__^

♡Koos

Fly Five Event...yes I'm super late.

2012-01-05T13:16:00.000-05:00

First things first...Happy New Year!!!!!! *insert confetti here* I am SO READY for 2012. This year is all about me. There, I said it. Last year I was waaaaaay too concerned with other people's issues, feelings, hang-ups. This year? I can't waste the time on it. Sorry, but I'm not getting any younger, and I don't want to waste the rest of my 20s tiptoeing on eggshells because other people can't handle the fact that I love the person God's made me, I love the life God has given me, and I love where my life is headed.

*Steps down off of soapboax* Okay so...back to business.

If you aren't reading fly yet, stop what you're doing, click the link, and visit. It's an explosion of creativity that focuses primarily on Black women. fly celebrated its 5th anniversary (a while ago. like I said, I'm super late), and of course I had to be there.

The event was held at the Anthropologie in downtown Washington, DC. The decor was super cute, and so where the girls that attended! So many beautiful women came out to support the blog and its author, Andrea, eat the best cupcakes I've ever had, and talk about...everything!

That's me and Andrea of fly! And I even met some Feisty House readers! I should have taken more photos, but I was too busy "window shopping." I did buy some Christmas presents, but nothing for myself. Ah well...next time. All in all, a very cute event, and a really good time!

♡Koos

Bantu Knots for New Year's?

2011-12-29T08:00:00.000-05:00

I am SO EXCITED to celebrate New Year's 2012! I bought my dress on the River Island website (it's full leopard print and lurex...BOOM), I bought shoes a few months ago that I haven't worn yet, but I don't have a hairstyle! I thought to myself, "Hmmmm...maybe I'll straighten," but I don't have the time or patience to go through that process. I thought I could just rock a side bun or updo of some kind, but my boyfriend is not a fan of my hair when it's pulled back (he loves when it's out and big, which is why I have such a hard time with protective styling!)

I think I've settled on a bantu knot-out for New Year's! It's so funny to me that I was raised on bantu knots (AKA "chiney bumps") but I rarely ever style my hair with them. Anyway, I'm not sure I've posted this video before, but I think this set came out great. I think I'll flat twist my sections before knotting them. Bless this girl's heart for her twisting tutorial, but for the life of me, I cannot seem to understand how she does it.

Peep the video below--should I go through with it? And feel free to leave comments on how you're doing your hair this New Year's =)

♡Koos

Thanks Grandma!

2011-12-28T08:00:00.000-05:00

My grandma gave me this vintage sweater when I was in New York a few weeks ago. It perfectly matched my coral skirt. Of course the day I chose to wear it, I actually had to work from home for most of the day -___- Ah well!

You'll notice that my hair looks really fluffy in this picture. Before putting my hair in 5 flat twists, I blowdried it on a low setting with my ceramic round brush. Then I used conditioner to set the flat twists as usual and sealed with EVCO. The result was big, stretched hair.

Blouse :: my grandma ^__^
Skirt :: H&M

Hair :: 5 flat twists (on blowdried hair)

♡Koos

Christmas Day

2011-12-27T13:44:00.000-05:00

I spent Christmas at my parents' house in South Florida. The weather was great! It was also the first time in a year that all of us siblings were home at the same time. It was a great time.

Before I left DC, I washed my hair with Kinky Curly Come Clean shampoo and deep conditioned with my Shea Moisture conditioner under the dryer for about 30 minutes. Then I put my hair into five flat twists and hopped on the plane! I hate having my hair out on planes because the air is soooo dry. To style my hair for Christmas, I undid each flat twist and then moisturized my hair with a mixture of Herbal Essence's LTR conditioner and water.

When I bought these pants, I just knew that I would want to wear them with these shoes! I took them with me when I got the pants tailored; it's seriously the perfect combination. I can't wait until it gets warmer!

My hair looks so uneven towards the bottom. That's because my nape grows much faster than the rest of my hair. I may start pinning up the very back from now on so that the curls look more uniform.

Hope you had a Merry Christmas!!!!

Silk blouse :: Urban Outfitters
High-waisted pants :: Forever 21
Sandals :: Guess

Hair :: 5 flat twists

♡Koos

my latest obsession

2011-12-27T08:00:00.000-05:00

I'm no beauty/make-up guru or anything, but I definitely enjoy getting dolled up ^__^ A friend reminded me the other day that e.l.f. cosmetics has a website where you can buy all their stuff. I would purchase e.l.f. products once in a while when I saw something interesting at Target, but the website has TONS of stuff, and all for ridiculously low prices!

I bought a few things online on Black Friday, and I have to say I'm really pleased with what I got! So much so, I went ahead and made another order a few days ago. So far I have:Mineral Lip Liner in Rose
Studio Cream Eyeliner in Black, Gunmetal and Midnight
Studio Cream Eyeshadow in Candlelight, Eggplant and Smoke
Studio High Definition Powder

I really like the cream eyeshadow a lot. The consistency is great, and the colors blend well. The cream eyeliner is pretty good (for $3), but not as creamy as I'd like, and the brush that comes with it is crap. The high definition powder does such a good job of setting my makeup, which is important for me because I have oily skin. I would definitely recommend e.l.f. products to anyone who wants to have fun with makeup but does't want to invest in high-end products.

I think natural hair does a good job of setting off bold or natural-looking makeup. I love big curls paired with simple cat eyes, or kinky updos with bold eyeshadow. It's just so pretty! And the combinations are endless! Like I said, I'm no make-up expert (I just started wearing foundation when I got my first job out of grad school 2 years ago!) but I love to experiment, especially when my hair is in its naturally kinky state!

♡Koos

Playing catch-up

2011-12-26T08:00:00.000-05:00

I've been so busy with moving and arranging my new apartment that I haven't had much time to blog, so this post is to basically catch you all up on what I've done with my hair.

I finally henna'd my hair and put it into some long and narrow Curlformers. My hair felt a lot stronger and the curls came out pretty good. They lasted a few days (maybe 4?) and then I went back to wearing a flat twist out.

Now that I've moved to DC, I need to find a new place to buy henna. I'll go to Laurel and buy a few boxes until I find a closer source. At any rate, my New Year's resolution is to henna my hair at least once a month. Clearly it's what keeps my hair from breaking, and hair that doesn't break gets longer. I'm so close to my goal length, I can taste it!

I don't really have much else to report. I was blowdrying my hair before flat-twisting it for a while, and the look was so big and full! But clearly I can't keep blowdrying my hair after every weekly cowash. I suppose it'll just be a "treat" or something (I REALLY like how it looks). Also I really need to get a trim and check my length, so I'm going to straighten my hair at the end of the year. I doubt it's going to be that long, especially after the trim, but I've come to terms with the fact that (1) my hair grows pretty slowly--or I'm just really impatient, and (2) when I don't henna my hair regularly, I don't experience the length retention necessary to reach my hair goals. It's that simple.

Alright...I'm writing this post on Christmas Day and I'm about to eat dinner! Jerk chicken, curry goat, rice & peas, and rum cake on deck ^__^

♡Koos

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T12:37:00.002-05:00

I hope you're having a very Merry Christmas! I'm in Florida and it's an easy, breezy 77 degrees. It can't get much better than this.

Changes.

2011-12-06T10:01:00.000-05:00

Hello Feisty Ladies!

So as I'm sure you've noticed, our dear Jaye has left The Feisty House to pursue bigger and better things =) We wish her all the best! She was a great addition to the blog, and it will be difficult to fill her shoes so...I won't try.

Leave your comments for her below!

♡Koos

River Island...I ♡ you.

2011-12-02T14:09:00.000-05:00

Maybe I'm late with this, but UK shop River Island is shipping to North America, and I couldn't be happier.

I just browsed the website for the first time in a while, and I have to say...I'm in love! The clothes just feel like me, you know? (I'm sure a million people out there feel the same way lol). Below are some of the items I threw into my shopping cart for fun--I have too many adult responsibilities to take care of at this juncture that are UFORTUNATELY preventing me from making this anything more than pretend -_____-

I cannot wait to treat myself to some new goodies!!!!

♡Koos

30 before 30

2011-12-01T09:00:00.000-05:00

I have come to the realization that I'm going to be 30 very soon. I turn 27 in March! Where has the time gone? I spent so much of my 20s trying to "make it." Now that I've reached some semblance of adulthood, there are some things I really want to do before I die...or at least before I turn 30 (sometimes it feels like it's all the same).

My 30 Before 30 (in no particular order)

Travel to South America, Europe, Asia, Africa and Australia...yes all the continents.
Take my family to Jamaica for Christmas.
Get engaged, plan a wedding, get married ^__^
Learn to sew.
Volunteer somewhere consistently.
Write a book.
Visit another country...alone.
Go all Apple everything (iPhone on deck!)
Buy stocks.
Invest in a Burberry trench coat.
Find my signature fragrance (I'm now leaning towards Burberry Body)
Become a filmmaker.
Draw/paint/otherwise create something for my walls.
Live alone (this is pretty much done!)
Fully decorate my own space.
Print pictures from my camera and hang them up!
Teach a college-level course.
Buy a quilted Chanel purse.
Make another best friend (it's different when you meet people as an adult).
Learn to play piano by ear...for realsies.
Move to a new city (extra points if it's in a new country).
Dye my hair.
Learn to swim ASAP.
Train for a marathon.
Go ziplining, snorkeling, skiing and surfing.
Create and/or lead out in a church ministry.
Adopt a grandparent.
Memorize 30 new scriptures.
Learn Spanish and Portuguese.
Throw an AMAZING 30th birthday party!!!

The Feisty House is a great blog, and I really love what it's become, but this isn't the forum for documenting my 30 by 30 journey (so to speak). I'm going to develop a second blog just for my 30 list. I'm really excited about it! I have so many ideas. And of course I will be sure to share the new blog with you once it's up and running =)

Do any Feisties out there have any age-related lists???

♡Koos

SIGH...I may need to reel it in.

2011-11-30T09:00:00.000-05:00

My big hair, that is.

Today I dusted my ends because they felt terrible. There were little splits and fairy knots here and there. I was so unhappy. And it just looked so short to me. SIGH. Sometimes I just get really fed up with my hair. I feel like I should definitely be BSL by now, and last time I straightened, the very back was just scraping my bra strap.

I know I've been slacking. I haven't had a henna treatment in...forever. I ran out of aloe vera juice so I haven't been using my leave-in (I just bought some tonight). I haven't cowashed my hair in 2 weeks because I've been lazy. I think I need to just reinvest in my hair. I need to henna, deep condition (with heat), and use my leave-in to keep my porous hair from leaking out moisture.

I'm also thinking I may have to stop wearing twist outs so often. With the twist outs, my hands are in my hair every night. I need to go back to a hairstyle that prevents me from doing that. Last September and October, when my hair was at its longest, I was only wearing roller sets. I'm bringing the Curlformers and other roller sets back. I'll mix my H-Two leave-in with the aloe vera juice so that I don't have to put conditioner in my hair (my curls won't last if I have conditioner in my hair when I set it).

I'm going to mix some henna right now. Tomorrow may be the last twist out for the new year =( We'll see. SIGH.

♡Koos

the weekEND

2011-11-28T09:00:00.000-05:00

I spent the weekend in New York looking for apartments with my boyfriend. Sunday we ended the weekend with his friends in Williamsburg. I'm so glad he's moved back to the East coast. We're only a bus ride away! It's been great, and I'm sure it'll get better once he's settled down and found somewhere to live.

Cable-knit sweater :: Target
Trousers :: Zara
Envelope clutch (worn as shoulder bag) :: Forever 21
Suede pumps :: Urban Outfitters

Hair :: Twistout (5 flat twists)

♡Koos

A high of 60

2011-11-25T16:30:00.000-05:00

It was pretty warm out in Brooklyn today. I had planned to take a walk, but nothing really came of it. UGH! What a waste of a gorgeous afternoon.

Outfit I'd planned to wear--I'll save it for this weekend.

The new Super Push-Up by H&M. Best.Bra.Ever.

Making plans for later.

What I ended up doing instead: reading magazines and practicing makeup looks.

Hope you got out and enjoyed the weather!

♡Koos

Getting ready for dinner

2011-11-24T16:05:00.000-05:00

Hope you're having a lovely Thanksgiving. I'm thankful for you all =)

♡Koos

WEEKLY WORD

2011-11-20T22:02:00.000-05:00

Life is hard, but God is good.

"These things I have spoken to you so that in Me you may have peace. In the world, you WILL have tribulation; but be of good cheer. I have overcome the world!"

John 16:33

I've been wanting to write about this for weeks. The past few months have been so hard. My mind has been so consumed with my mistakes, shortcomings and character flaws. I'm more stressed than I have been in a long time. Seriously--have you ever felt like you just can't catch a break?!?

I'm so ready for my life to be easy! Sometimes I'm overcome with emotion just thinking about how overwhelmed I am. I'm pulled in so many directions mentally, emotionally, financially, spiritually! Today it just all came to a point where I crashed. I went into my grandma's room and cried to her about how busy and stressed and worried I am. She held me and said, "Yes my dear, life just gets harder and harder, doesn't it?"

She's so right! Life just keeps getting harder and harder. But this world is not supposed to be an easy place to live. Jesus told us that we WILL have tribulation in this life. We can't escape it. There will be times when we're stressed. There will be times when we're unhappy, depressed and overwhelmed. We will hurt people and people will hurt us. There are times when we feel utterly alone and misunderstood...

But even in all this, God says we're to be joyful and "have cheer." HUH? How can we be cheerful when all of these terrible things are going on in our lives? By remembering that Jesus is our victory! Jesus has already overcome this world. Nothing that happens to us in this life is greater than what Jesus did for each of us on Calvary. When we really take hold of the promise that Christ has already overcome this world and all of the painful situations we experience here, we can totally transform the way we deal with daily stress. I'm not there yet, but I honestly believe that today's verse has given me so much strength since I first read it on my boyfriend's sister's Facebook page. I still have days like today when I reach my breaking point, but now as I write this, I'm reminded of the promise that Jesus has already overcome this life, and my strength has been restored!

I hope that this verse is able to provide you with some comfort as you go through your own trials. Remember that your faith in Jesus' promise that He has overcome the world is what will help you to overcome your own situations (1 John 5:4). This week, let's remind ourselves of these promises. Be encouraged!

I just shot a video!

2011-11-17T21:41:00.001-05:00

I know. I can't believe it either. I'm editing it now and thou shalt see it anon.

♡Koos

Countdown

2011-11-15T09:00:00.000-05:00

This post really has nothing to do with its title. I'm listening to Beyonce's "Countdown" (my favorite song on 4) as I write this post. Anyway, dunno if I told you all this, but I am officially OBSESSED with lookbook.nu. No one really cares that I post looks there (and that's okay -__-). The BEST part of that website is all the inspiration! Oh gosh, there are so many new ideas I have for outfits. Like this one:
I love the look of tie-neck blouses, and I was browsing through looks on lookbook.nu and *BAM* it hit me (just like that, actually): I have a ton of random sashes I don't wear that came in dresses and skirts. Why don't I just use one of those? So I did. Voila!

Longsleeve blouse :: H&M
Skinny trousers (plum) :: H&M
Suede slingback heels :: Urban Outfitters

Hair :: Curled with flat iron, pincurled

♡Koos

Sightseeing

2011-11-13T12:09:00.000-05:00

So as you all know from yesterday's post, last weekend I had two of my really good friends here, and one of them had never been to D.C., so of course we just HAD to go sightseeing. We started the day with a great meal at Scion in Dupont Circle.

We ended the day at the White House and the National Mall. It was a great time with great people!

Blouse :: Target
Leopard print scarf :: Aldo
Pink trousers :: Zara
Croc print bag :: Forever 21
Boots :: Charlotte Russe

Hair :: Straightened, curled with flat iron

♡Koos

Wash day tomorrow. Shall I try the finger coils?

2011-11-12T15:00:00.000-05:00

I'm washing my hair tomorrow (finally, yes I know). I'm really excited because I haven't seen the natural kinks in a minute! I was going to Curlform my hair, but now I'm really interested in trying finger coils. Look at this video below! Saw her on Curly Nikki this morning while I was waiting for Praize Vision to start (*bbm face palm*)

I really want to try this! Maybe I should Curlform my hair this time around, just to get my hair used to being curly again, and THEN do it? I dunno. I'm super impatient so I kinda wanna do it ASAP. Anyway, I'm out for a walk. Hope you're having a blessed day!

♡Koos

Lady in red

2011-11-12T12:00:00.000-05:00

I bought this red dress like almost 2 months ago at Zara. It was on sale for like 50% or something, and it was too heavy and warm to wear during the summer, but there was NO WAY I could leave the dress there. So I bought, and I've been waiting to wear it since then. Last week, I finally got my chance! My friends were in from out of town, and we all went to church together. It was a good Saturday =)

Dress :: Zara
Scarf :: Aldo
Earrings :: Target
Croc print bag :: Forever 21
Suede slingbacks :: Urban Outfitters

Hair :: Straightened, Curled with flat iron

♡Koos

Not that cold

2011-11-11T09:30:00.000-05:00

I walked outside this morning and it was really nice (look how blue the sky is), so I snapped a few photos. I was just experimenting with the outfit. I'm trying to figure out how to work these very thin polyester pants into my Fall/Winter wardrobe. Today I wore tights underneath and it was just fine. I was almost too warm!

Blouse :: Target
Earrings :: Target
Wide-leg pants :: Forever 21

Hair :: Curled with flat iron, pincurled

♡Koos

Flat Iron Curls

2011-11-10T09:00:00.000-05:00

I'm not very good at styling my straight hair. I like wraps for like 3 days and then I get tired of it being bone straight, so I put it into a ponytail. I finally put my foot down (stomp) and decided to learn how to be more creative with my straightened hair. After watching TONS of videos on YouTube, I think I finally learned how to curl my hair with a flat iron.

I don't have a tutorial to show you because I think there's a wealth of information on YouTube already. And...I'm honestly not good enough to share my technique! Something happens when I get to the right side of my hair and I lose all dexterity o_O I am going to work harder with styling my straight hair. I like the curls so much! They're bouncy and light and so easy to maintain--some nights I pin curl them down, other nights I don't, and they still look just like these pics, even a week later.

It's time for me to really wash my hair and get back to the curls! All these new visitors to the blog probably think I have a relaxer. If they're not looking at my edges.

♡Koos

WEEKLY WORD

2011-11-09T12:55:00.001-05:00

Judge Not.

"Therefore you have no excuse, everyone of you who passes judgment, for in that which you judge another, you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things. Do you think when you pass judgment...and do the same [sins] yourself, you'll escape the judgment of God? Or do you think lightly of the riches of His kindness and tolerance and patience, not knowing that the kindness of God leads you to repentance?"

Romans 2:1,3-4

We've all fallen in the trap of being judgmental. We see someone doing something we think we'd NEVER do, and we think, "Wow, how could she do something like that? She's clearly not as close to Christ as I thought." Or we pompously thank God that we're Christians and aren't out there doing "worldly" things. We cringe a little when someone mentions that she hasn't been to church in weeks. Or conversely, we're totally surprised when certain people are in church or trying to get to closer to God. "What is SHE doing here? I know she can't think we believe that she's turned her life around. She's not fooling anybody..."

After I finished reading Frances Chan's book Crazy Love, I realized there were things missing from my Christian walk. I wasn't doing a good job of turning my Christian walk into a daily experience. The way we do that is through our dealings with others, and by remembering daily that we are nothing, and it's only because of God's "kindness and tolerance and patience" that we're even able to repent of our sins and call ourselves Christians. God shows us unlimited favor, His grace and mercy, each and every day. He doesn't treat us the way we deserve to be treated, or condemn us on account of our sinful nature (Romans 12:1, Psalms 103:10,17). So why do we feel we can do the same to others, especially those of the household of faith?

The next time you're tempted to judge someone's actions, remember today's passage. When we judge another person, we are only condemning ourselves because we too sin and fall short. All of us do. None of us deserves God's glory. None of us deserves His salvation. All of us are in this together--we're all saved under grace through faith, and not of our own goodness, but rather because God gave us the amazing gift of Christ Jesus, His Son.

Super Siced!

2011-11-09T08:30:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I was featured as a Fashion Bombshell of the Day at Fashion Bomb Daily. And when I say "featured," I mean I sent Claire an email with my pictures and gushed about myself and then she felt obliged to post it on her blog because...those are the rules.

But it feels so much better to say featured, doesn't it????

Check out the post and take a look at the other Bombshells! And a huge XO to the new followers from that posting. Your comments on Fashion Bomb and on The Feisty House posts have been so sweet!

♡Koos

Sephora

2011-11-04T09:00:00.000-04:00

I was in Sephora looking for cologne for my boyfriend and got kidnapped by the NARS Orgasm collection (makeup can be so rude!) I was really interested in trying the blush but...it's $30. Seriously? It must really be spectacular. I also figured out what I want to smell like in 2012 (have you smelled Gucci II? It's ahhhh-mazing). Anyway, the weather was a little cool, but not cold enough to wear pants ^__^

I absotively posilutely LOVE this handbag. I bought it because I wanted something roomy, but not as big as my large Longchamps tote. I've worn it every day since I bought it. EVERY DAY. I've also worn that sweater 3 or 4 times in the span of 2 weeks. I'm realizing I'm not really a cardigan fan. Some people go extra hard for cardigans, but I'll wear a crew neck pullover allllllllll day.

Sweater :: Forever 21
Tweed shorts :: thrifted
Suede slingbacks :: Urban Outfitters (exactly like the ones seen here)
Handbag :: Forever 21

Hair :: Straightened, wrapped

♡Koos

New fave: cropped sweaters

2011-11-03T09:00:00.000-04:00

On my shopping trip the other day, I went to Forever 21 and found this cobalt blue cropped sweater. I love it! It's nice and light, which is great for layering and for wearing on days when it's cool, but not quite cold (like the Saturday I took these photos).

Yes, those poses were dumb. But I honestly couldn't think of anything better to do 0_o

How darling are those gold buttons? What a nice touch.

Cropped sweater :: Forever21
Skirt :: H&M
Suede pumps :: Urban Outfitters

Hair :: Straightened, wrapped

♡Koos

I straightened again.

2011-11-02T14:52:00.002-04:00

Yeah, it seems quick to me too. But I couldn't help it! I like to have straight hair when I go to California because I can take advantage of a humidity-free atmosphere.

This was one of my best straightening experiences. I detangled my hair in six sections with VO5 conditioner and my Jilbere shower comb, and then washed my hair with Kinky Curly Come Clean shampoo. It naturally clarifies and chelates (removes mineral deposits from hair and scalp left by hard water) without the use of sulfates. It's also pH balanced. I found it at Target.

I LOVE that shampoo! My hair felt so clean, and that's a feeling I never really got from using other sulfate-free shampoos. I brushed the shampoo through my hair with my modified Denman brush, and then rinsed. I then did a protein treatment with Aphogee 2-min Keratin Reconstructor. After I rinsed that out, I deep conditioned my hair with Millennia Mud for about an hour. Then I rinsed my hair with cold water and dried with a t-shirt.

Before blow-drying, I separated my hair into 6 sections and added heat protectant: Aphogee Keratin and Green Tea Restructurizer spray and Fantasia IC Heat Protecting Serum. Then I blowdried my hair on the highest heat setting at the highest power (so it would dry quickly and I wouldn't have to expose my hair to direct heat for too long). I used my ceramic round brush to get my hair pretty smooth, and then flat-ironed on 410 degrees F. with my Sedu.In these pics you can see the difference between the flat-ironed half and the half that has been blow-dried.

My hair is touching my bra strap at the longest section (the very back), but that definitely doesn't mean I'm BSL, which means I'm still going to be blogging (I'm pretty sure I'll stop once I reach BSL, unless I come up with another length goal--I'm a goal-oriented person). My hair's been straight for about 2 weeks now. I won't keep it straight for much longer. I'm going to trim my ends (MYSELF!!!!!) and curl it this weekend. I'll probably henna my hair soon and then...I'm dyeing it! I'm DEFINITELY still doing that =)

♡Koos

SCARVES

2011-10-25T13:03:00.002-04:00

This is hands-down one of the best videos I've seen on YouTube. I'm so excited for Fall!

♡Koos

13th Street Shopping

2011-10-22T11:44:00.000-04:00

Last Sunday I went shopping in Metro Center and spent too much money. Ah well. You only live once, right?

I saw a girl in a bright blue maxi skirt and a white linen blazer the night before and thought, "I have a bright maxi skirt and white linen blazer. What a great idea for an outfit!" I had to wear leggings underneath the skirt because it was a bit chilly, but you could never tell. For fall I'm thinking of pairing this skirt with sweaters. I'm determined to get year-round wear out of it!

Linen Blazer :: Urban Outfitters
Cropped Top :: American Apparel
Maxi Skirt :: Zara
Necklace : H&M

Hair :: Pin Curl Roller Set (in modified fro-hawk)

Hope your weekend is totally fab!

♡Koos

A little bit vintage.

2011-10-21T20:41:00.000-04:00

I went to a fashion show! On Saturday night a friend and I attended ReadySetDC's District Fall/Winter 2011 fashion show that showcased local designers. It was a great venue and a cool crowd, and it was nice to support local talent.

I'm wearing another one of my Ruche finds. I love this dress. You can't see in these pictures, but it has an open back. So cute! And I NEVER wear this hat, but I'm glad I did. I loved the old school vibe of this outfit!

There were a few items at the show that I really liked, but for the most part I was just enjoying the vibe...and the open bar (teehee).

Look who I met! This is Emily Kate of Capital Style (check out her website!). She was so great, and her hair is FAB!!!!! Definitely the best wash-n-go I've ever seen in real life.

My friend and I. She's been on the blog before.All in all, it was a nice night. I want to explore more of what DC has to offer. It seems like the only things I really do in the city are sightsee, shop and eat brunch, but there's so much more to do here! It seems like the hardest part is finding out about events (I happened upon the fashion show randomly). I had a good time!

Hat :: Forever21 (years ago!)
Dress :: Ruche
Pumps :: Forever21
Purse :: Forever21

Hair :: Pin Curl Roller Set

♡Koos

Doing the Polka

2011-10-19T10:42:00.000-04:00

So I was cruising the blogosphere one day (most likely while I was at work...hey, you do it too!) and came across this amazing polka-dot skirt on Atlantic-Pacific. I think Bee does the absolute most, but I like her pieces far more than her execution (I'm just not .that adventurous I guess). One such piece was this low-hem skirt from Ruche.

Ruche is slowly becoming one of my fave places to shop online. They have such one-of-a-kind finds, and I'm all about that! And the dresses?
I die...Blouse :: H&M
Skirt :: Ruche
Pumps :: Urban Outfitters
Leather clutch :: Thrifted

Hair :: Pin Curl Roller Set

♡Koos

I forgot all about this style!

2011-10-18T18:21:00.001-04:00

Thanks for being patient with me as I got my life together. I've been so busy with work and family and love that I've had ZERO time to blog. But things have settled down a little bit now =)

So as you may (or may not?) remember, I kept my hair straight for most of September. When it was time for a wash, I wasn't sure what style I wanted. I really wasn't in the mood for a twist-out or braid-out, but those styles were quick, so I did them anyway. Then I was looking back on old blog posts and realized I haven't done a roller set in a while...at least not a good one (see last attempt here).

Last week I finger-detangled an old braidout using extra virgin olive oil and water (EVOO--I haven't posted in so long, I'm afraid you all have forgotten what the acronyms mean!). Then I separated my hair into six sections and stepped into the shower. I cowashed each section with my usual conditioner and combed through the strands with my shower comb and then brushed with my modified Denman brush. Then I twisted each section. When I finished cowashing all the sections, I rinsed the twists with cold water and aloe vera juice (to balance the pH). I dried my hair with a t-shirt and then added Elasta QP H-Two Leave-in and some Shea Moisture Coconut & Hisbiscus Hold and Shine Mist. I sealed all the moisture in with extra virgin coconut oil (EVCO). Then I roller set my hair using Motions Foaming Wrap Lotion to set the curls. I had two sections going from the front to back, and then I set the sides.

I used a blowdryer to dry my hair (only for about 15 minutes) and then let the rest dry overnight. The next morning I took out the rollers, and here's how the curls came out:
Cute huh? I was so proud! But of course it was super humid outside, and the curls kinda suffered a little. I pin curled my hair when I got home that night using a little bit of Herbal Essence's Long Term Relationship conditioner and EVCO to seal. The result was a curly fro:

I have been rocking this same pin curl roller set for four days. Some nights I pin curl the sections every other night, and the curls stay put! It's great! When I wanted a tighter fro, I just did smaller sections. Also another way to get a lot of life out of this style is to twist the roots of section and then pin curl it down. Works great!

Here are some tutorials that I've already recorded. Just put them together to get this look! Hope they're helpful! Enjoy!

♡Koos

WEEKLY WORD

2011-10-05T01:26:00.000-04:00

You only get one shot!

"So teach us to number our days, That we may gain a heart of wisdom."
Psalm 90:12

I woke up on my half-birthday (September 8th) this year and realized I'll never see another September 8, 2011. This day will never come by again. I'll never get another chance to make this day the best day of my life. I only have one shot!

That realization has stuck with me since then. We only get one shot at each day, and that's it! The day's done! And on top of that, we may not get another day! This day could be your last. It could be my last. So...how will you live today?

Chris Rice, hands-down my favorite contemporary Christian musician, wrote an amazing song, Life Means So Much. He breaks down the concept of living each day to the fullest in such a unique way:

"Every day is a bank account. Time is our currency. No one's rich, nobody's poor: we get 24 hours each. So how are you gonna spend? Will you invest or squander? Try to get ahead or help someone who's under?"

How are you going to spend your 24 hours? I want to be the best me I can be. I don't want to live with regret. And I want to live knowing that God was pleased with how I treated people today, with how I praised Him today, with how I showed His love to others. I want to spend my 24 hours at peace and experiencing all that life has to offer! If I have the opportunity to enjoy the people God has placed in my life today, I'm going to take it. If I'm given the opportunity to make someone else feel good about himself or herself, that's what I'm going to do. If I have the opportunity to make life better for those that I love, then why wouldn't I?

I'm gonna make this day count :)

♡Koos

Comfortable in my own skin.

2011-10-02T17:40:00.001-04:00

I wanted to do a small shoot of my hair, to update you all on what it's been looking like the past few weeks that I've been M.I.A. My hair as been straight for a while now, and I've been moisturizing with my new favorite product: Shea Moisture's 100% Organic Shea Butter infused with Coconut and Hibiscus (if you go looking for this product at Target, it isn't with all the hair products--it's where they keep skin stuff). My hair feels super moisturized and soft! I love this stuff.

My hair is just about where it was this time last year, which is great. I've made some really good progress, even with my setbacks here and there. I'm also loving my straight hair because I've learned how to curl with a flat iron. I really don't like dead straight hair, which is a big reason why I don't straighten my hair often, but my hair has been bouncy and curly and much more interesting.

These photos are a little different from the ones I usually post on the blog. I wanted to show you all just plain old me. These are my house clothes. I have no makeup on. My hair wasn't combed (I didn't put my hair into pin curls last night, just covered it with a satin scarf). Over this past year, I can honestly say I've reached a point in my life where I'm 100% comfortable in my own skin. I love hair and beauty and fashion, and this blog is dedicated to those interests, but I'm as confident in a t-shirt and jeans as I am in lipstick and heels.

Shoutouts to the baby bro for taking these pics.

♡Koos

I promise I'm still here.

2011-09-26T16:51:00.002-04:00

I'm still here and I still blog...I've been traveling for work, and I won't be back until the 2nd week in October sooooo don't expect too much from me =/
See ya later!

♡Koos

Target to the rescue!

2011-09-09T09:27:00.000-04:00

Last Saturday I thought it was going to be cool, and I had planned to wear this new dress I bought (at Zara, of course). However I woke up Saturday morning and it wasn't cool and breezy at all. Instead it was warm and muggy. I was blown. Thankfully I had gone to Target the day before and randomly purchased this striped dress, the last one in the rack. I didn't even try it on--I'd just picked it up on my way to the check-out.

The dress fit perfectly! It's roomy too, and can be dressed up or down (I wore it to work this past week with flats). It feels like a comfy tee-shirt, but doesn't wear like one, which is good.

Striped Cotton Dress :: Target
Skinny belt :: H&M
Suede slingbacks :: Urban Outfitters

Hair :: Curlformer set

♡Koos

Bleh no more

2011-09-08T11:30:00.000-04:00

Hello Feisties!

I had been having some serious issues with my hair the past few weeks, and I wrote about it in this post. Well thankfully, my hair doesn't feel "bleh" anymore! I gave myself a protein treatment using Aphogee's 2-min Keratin Reconstructor, and my hair feels so much stronger! I saw fewer broken pieces when I styled too.

I put my hair in Curlformers because I didn't want to mess with my ends too much, but they didn't last. For one thing, it was mad humid here, and for another, I completely forgot the number 1 rule of putting in Curlformers--don't use conditioner! Instead of using my Elasta QP H-Two leave-in, I used my creamier, Kimmaytube version, and my hair didn't really dry.

After about 3 days, I just used some LTR to moisturize my hair and then rocked a pin-curl braidout for the rest of the week. I'm so glad my hair is feeling better. I'm straightening next week, and I know my hair won't be as long as it should be, but hopefully I've been able to retain something.

♡Koos

WEEKLY WORD

2011-09-07T18:15:00.000-04:00

Dealing with People

"You shall not take vengeance, nor bear any grudge against the children of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself; I AM the Lord."
Leviticus 19:18

The hardest part of being a true Christian, for many of us, is how we choose to deal with other people. The way we treat others is a direct reflection of how close we are to Christ. When we treat others poorly, our spiritual lives are suffering. It's that simple.

In Matthew 25 (starting in verse 31), Jesus is giving His disciples an idea of what it will be like when He returns to earth. He separates the people into two groups, but this separation isn't based on which group was more sinful. Instead, Jesus separates the people according to how they treated each other.

"Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.’ Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink? When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’ (Matthew 25:34-40).

In like manner, the King looks at those to His left hand and curses them and tells them He never knew them! The people on the King's left never treated others with kindness or helped them in their times of need. It is the way we treat others that makes the difference in how Jesus views us. When we treat others with love (because even a "good" act without love means nothing according to 1 Corinthians 13), we are acting like Christ, and we are truly being Christian people.

Like I said, this is one of the hardest things for many of us to put into practice. We don't want to show love to that woman who give us attitude all the time, or always has something negative to say about us at work, or finds herself in your man's face (lol, it happens!) But God didn't call Christians to only show love to nice people. He called us to love everyone, even when we don't feel like it. I can honestly say that there are some people that just consistently rub me the wrong way, but it's not up to me to take revenge on them or hold a grudge, especially if they claim to be Christians too. Instead, I need to show love because that's what God has called me to do. Trust...I'm a work in progress -______-

I challenge you to show love to someone who you wouldn't normally show love. Treat that person like you would treat Jesus, just like those that the King had to his right hand. I'll aim to do the same. Send comments below! Let's uplift each other and support each other in becoming more like Christ =)

Curling Souffle

2011-09-02T15:00:00.000-04:00

GAAAAAHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!

Shea Moisture, the line of natural hair products beloved by this blog and available at Target (and Walgreens I've learned) has created a new product. I'm too excited. This month, Shea Moisture released their new, all-natural hair gel for curly hair.

According to the press release, "SheaMoisture has developed their Coconut Hibiscus Curling Soufflé (Gel) with Agave Nectar & Flax Seed—a unique and purely natural styling aid for curly hair. Coconut and Flax Seed oils nourish and hydrate the hair, seal the hair shaft to protect against external pollutants and assist in natural oil retention. SheaMoisture’s original natural humectant complex of Agave Nectar, Coconut Oil, Vegetable Glycerin and Certified Organic Shea Butter moisturizes, conditions and boosts shine without frizz. This product does not contain silicones, polymers or PVP which could cause build-up and damage over time."

Oh boy.

I learned about this product release because one of our Feisty ladies, Elegant Elle, featured it on her blog last week (check out her post). Can you imagine the wonders this product could do for my Curlformer sets? I mean, just check the ingredients:

Aqueous Infusion of Agave Teqilana Leaf Extract and Sugar Cane Extract, Pectin, Vegetable Glycerin, Adansonia Digitata Pulp (Baobab) Extract, Cocos nucifera (Coconut) Oil*, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter)*, Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B-5), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract*, Tocopherol (Vitamin E-Vegetable Oil source), Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed/Flax) Seed Extract, Hibiscus Sabdariffa Extract, Potassium Sorbate, Proprietary Essential Oil Blend
*Denotes certified organic ingredient

I haven't been this excited about a product in a long time. How about you. Are you excited???

♡Koos

Bleh.

2011-09-02T10:06:00.001-04:00

My hair has been feeling pretty "bleh" these days. I'm shedding a lot, and no matter how much I snip and moisturize and seal, my ends are breaking off. And to top it all off, last night while cowashing, I did a strand test: I pulled on a strand of my hair and it stretched...and stretched...and stretched. Then it finally broke. So my hair is protein deficient...awesome.

It's important to maintain a moisture-protein balance. Because my hair is "protein sensitive" (meaning, it is very sensitive to protein and will break even if I use a little bit), sometimes I go weeks without using any protein. But my hair would always stay strong because I was using a moisturizer with protein in it: Herbal Essences Long Term Relationship (lovingly known as LTR on this blog).

Lately I've been using Herbal Essence's Totally Twisted. I love, it, and it's moisturizing, and it smells great, but it has ZERO PROTEIN. GAAAAHHHHHH I've been depriving my hair of the very thing it's made of! So yesterday I went to the store, and I purchased a bottle of LTR. I'll keep you posted on whether I see any changes.

My hair is in two flat-twists today because I slept in my deep conditioner last night and rinsed it out this morning. Once I get home, I'm going to slap some Keratin 2-Minute Reconstructor from Aphogee into this hair and get my moisture-protein balance back. I'm also going to fall back from the twist-outs for a while and concentrate on styles that stretch my ends more, like Curlformer sets. I've been seeing some fairy knots, and I know it's because my hair is much curlier now and because the twist-outs make it even easier for my hair to curl up on itself.

In addition...I'm waiting until my hair bounces back before dyeing it. I refuse to dye hair when it isn't at its best. I'll revisit my strands in October, and if my hair is healthy enough, I'll go ahead and get it done. I have a length check at the end of this month, and I already know I won't have made much progress because of all the breakage -_______- I'm upset because my hair was really long last October.

I'm a little frustrated that I've wasted the last two months or so by just watching my hair break and not changing up my regimen, but I'm glad that I know what the issue is now, and I know how to fix it.

♡Koos

inhales, screams FINALLY!!!!!!!!! jumps up and down

2011-09-01T18:23:00.001-04:00

OMIGOSH I'm so excited. ZARA launches its online store here in the U.S. on September 7th! I have been dying for this to happen for a loooooong time, and it's finally here.

I'll probably still go to the store to try things on, because I'm not a consistent size there, but I'll have access to pieces that aren't at the Downtown D.C. location, which is so exciting!

I'm beside myself ^__^

♡Koos

Fuchsia and Hot Pink - Casual Thursday?

2011-08-31T13:55:00.005-04:00

My new favorite blog is Fashion Bananas, and I was so inspired by her "Royal and Turquoise" post that I wore this very casual outfit. To work. Last Thursday.

In all fairness, I can dress down as long as I don't have meetings, but I usually don't because I'm afraid something will go down on Capitol Hill and I'll have to rush into a meeting (residual paranoia from my days as a lobbyist). Methinks I shall dress down more often.

Don't you just love this fresh take on color blocking? Pick a color scheme and stick to it instead of wearing three or four different colors. It's an easy way to take your bright Spring pieces into late Summer/early Fall.

Sorry for that last face...I'd realized someone was watching me -__-

Round neck tee :: Forever 21
Belt and Trousers :: Zara
Platform Wedge Heels (in black) :: Fly Jane

Hair :: 5 Flattwists Twistout in updo

♡Koos

Power Lunch

2011-08-30T08:31:00.007-04:00

Last week I took a partner to lunch at Ceiba in Downtown D.C. I love that place because it serves fish in so many different ways! I always get the Jamaican Jerk Salmon (which isn't jerk at all, but still tastes great and comes with rice and peas and plantain!)

This was my first time doing a work lunch all by myself, and it went REALLY WELL. I wore these bright colors because it would be easy for me to describe myself to my partner, since we hadn't met in person before.

I wish I had some deep plum shoes to wear with this outfit on days I don't want to lug the Longchamps around, but still want to reflect the same color scheme. I saw this option at Topshop, but I dunno...that's a hefty price. Maybe I can get away with it by calling it an investment piece? Hmmm...

Zipper-back blouse :: Urban Outfitters
Pencil skirt :: H&M
Platform sandals :: Aldo
Shopping Le Pliage tote :: Longchamps

♡Koos

WEEKLY WORD

2011-08-27T08:39:00.002-04:00

Do you cause God to sing?

"The LORD your God in your midst, the Mighty One, will save;
He will rejoice over you with gladness,
He will quiet you with His love,
He will rejoice over you with singing.”

Zephaniah 3:17

Every morning I listen to Israel and New Breed's Alive in South Africa album. I love it. It puts me in a frame of mind to worship God throughout the day. I listen to it so much, I wake up with the songs on my heart, and it moves me to pick up my Bible and spend time with Jesus. If I don't listen to the album, or some form of worship music in the morning, my mind easily becomes consumed by other things, and before I know it, I've spent the whole day without so much as saying a proper grace.

Anyway...I digress.

On an interlude on the first album (it's a two-disc set), Israel Houghton refers to the verse above, Zephaniah 3:17. The Lord is both mighty to save AND gentle enough to quiet us with His love. What an interesting contrast! This boisterous, booming, all-powerful God can be soft and soothing, and quiet our restless and wicked hearts with His love. Amazing.

But not the most amazing part.

The first time I heard this song, I was struck by the image of a singing God. We always talk about the angels singing, but I had NEVER even thought that God did the same. It has completely changed the way I look at God. Amidst all the praise and worship that goes on in heaven, there is a time when God Himself takes the stage and sings His heart out in rejoicing.

And He's rejoicing over us.

The image is humbling. The God who spoke stars into existence (Genesis 1) and outlined the foundation of the universe (Job 39), the One who knows all, does all, and is everywhere at all times, rejoices over me with singing. Me. I don't deserve it--I'll never deserve it. But Lord knows, I desperately want to live up to His praise. How could I just live my life any old way knowing there's a God in heaven rejoicing over me? I have to walk differently, talk differently, act differently. I need to spread His love to others so that they may know of the God that sings for them...

I want to live like a woman who causes God to sing!

PANTS

2011-08-26T20:00:00.001-04:00

Yesterday I showed you how some bantu knots saved my hair. I was so happy with how it came out that I did the most when I put together my church outfit.

Crochet blouse :: Forever21
Wide-leg pants :: Forever 21
Suede slingbacks :: Urban Outfitters

I really love these pants. I wore them out in New York with a yellow crop top from American Apparel and the same shoes to see The Lion King on Broadway. I didn't post any pictures because my hair was all over the place (to this day, I dunno what happened!) The pants are high-waisted (and I had them tailored) so there was only a hint of skin showing when I wore them with the crop top.

My only issue with the pants is that they aren't that breathable, and my legs were sweating in them. Thankfully there were no sweat marks left behind!

♡Koos

Men's Shirt Fun!

2011-08-26T11:02:00.002-04:00

I don't know about you but... I'm definitely going to 2-3 shirts from the thrift store within the next week!

Something new

2011-08-25T14:05:00.004-04:00

Last week I traveled to Maine for three days, and didn't get back home until after midnight on Friday night. I was determined to go to church, but VERY tired, and my hair really needed to be washed. I wasn't about to flat twist that hair AGAIN.

In a desperate move, I randomly set my hair into two-strand twists and then put each twist into a chiney bump/bantu knot.

As you can see in the photo above, I didn't even use a comb to make nice parts. I just pulled sections of hair together, twisted it with some conditioner (Herbal Essence's Totally Twisted) and put the twists into knots, secured with a hairpin. I was a likkle bit nervous Saturday morning as I got my hair ready for church (this style has ruined my day on more than one occasion), but to my surprise, my hair looked GREAT!

Yeah...just concentrate on the hair texture in that last picture -____-

♡Koos

Nightie Aphrodites

2011-08-22T14:49:00.001-04:00

Lovely NY Times spread entitled Nightie Aphrodites (featuring Solange Knowles, Juno Temple, Corinne Bailey Rae, Les Nubians, and Esperanza Spalding) chronicling the perfect big hair to top off your evening wear.

Photos by Alice O’Malley. Styled by Susan Winget.

Next styling attempt

2011-08-22T01:56:00.001-04:00

I was stalking Curly Nikki (the flat twist tutorials have been featured here), and I came across this photo of Corinne Bailey Rae, courtesty of Le Coil.

I'm sorry, but that half-updo is just too cute, and could work for casual days and special events. I'm excited to try it on flat-twist-out. I just wish I had her length!!! But I know I'll get there eventually...

In other news, I am 100% committed to dyeing my hair, and I'm excited. I'm planning on getting it done within the next three weeks! I can't wait!

♡Koos

Wicked

2011-08-19T16:00:00.001-04:00

I went to see Wicked this past Saturday night at the Kennedy Center (it's a good show, but NOTHING like the book, so don't feel bad if you haven't read it). I wanted to do something different with my hair, so I did a roller set.

On Friday, I pre-detangled my hair with EVOO, then washed with Suave Daily Clarifying Shampoo. I followed that with a cowash/detangling with VO5 Moisture Milks conditioner (I use Kimmaytube's method for washing and detangling in 6 sections, and it's really helped me retain length). Then I deep conditioned with Shea Moisture's Deep Treatment Masque, rinsed with cold water and aloe vera juice, and then applied my leave-in.

I let my hair air dry (out, not in braids) until it was just barely damp. Then I sectioned my hair off and set it in rollers using Motions Foaming Wrap Lotion. I slept in the rollers and took them out the next afternoon. It would have been a really great, long-lasting set, but it was rainy and humid, so it didn't last past one day.

I judge what to wear to the theater based on the show I'm going to see. If I was going to an opera, I would wear something more formal (and you should always wear something formal on opening night, regardless of what's showing). Since Wicked is a contemporary musical, I figured this outfit would be fine.

Can you believe I got the shirt at Forever21?!?!?! I saw it the same day I found my crochet blouse from this post. I love the shiny gold thread used throughout--it's just a tad sheer and perfect for a night out.

Oversized lamè sweater :: Forever21
High-waist shorts :: Forever21
Reptile-print shoulder bag :: Forever21
Nude patent heels :: Target

♡Koos

WEEKLY WORD

2011-08-18T22:08:00.004-04:00

Truly letting go.

"He has made everything beautiful in its time...no one can understand the work that God does from beginning to end."

Ecclesiastes 3:11

I don't know how many times I've blogged about "letting go and letting God." I probably blog about it so much because I can't ever seem to truly do it until I get to the place where everything is out of my hands and there is no other option. I don't do a good job of relinquishing my will, even though I know that I can't plan my life better than God can.

So this week, I gave it all to God.

My boyfriend has put in for a transfer to his company's NY-based office. That would be SO MUCH CLOSER than where he is now (Malibu!). I'm super excited that he's requested the transfer, and I almost fell into the trap of praying to God for what I want...but I didn't. No, this time, I had the strength and the peace of mind to pray for God to do whatever He wants to do in His time.

I've accepted the fact that this means my boyfriend may not be able to move to the East Coast if that's not what God wants. And it's a little scary. But honestly, if God doesn't want something to happen, I shouldn't want it to happen either. God knows what's best! He knows the end from the beginning! He is ever-present: God exists in the future, and I don't even know what will happen five minutes from now. Five minutes ago, I had no idea that I would be writing this post. We're so limited, and I'd much rather trust God to do what's best just for the plain and simple fact that He knows more than I do!

God knows my heart. He knows that I don't want to be in a long-distance relationship anymore. But I'm going to trust Him and what He decides I need. I'm truly letting go and letting God, and I pray that whatever the outcome, I can be satisfied with God's decision.

♡Koos

Fresh Face

2011-08-18T09:00:00.003-04:00

I really should have thrown on some make-up for these pictures. Not this fresh face...

Anyway, I bought new shoes! I've been looking for a pair of nude heels to wear to work, and I found some at Target. At first I really didn't want to buy them because the heel is only about 3" (maybe even lower), but I'm SO glad I did. These shoes are SO comfortable. I walked all the way from 13th and M to Gallery Place (9th and G), and my felt like they were in flats. And they go with EVERYTHING!

Back-zippered blouse :: Zara
Low crotch trousers :: Zara
Skinny belt :: H&M
Nude patent heels :: Target

♡Koos

top.knot

2011-08-16T08:45:00.005-04:00

I don't really like top knots on me (I style my hair this way because it's uber convenient when I'm being lazy), but on this day, I didn't really mind it as much.

I think I'll like wearing top knots more once my hair gets longer and the bun is bigger. I have a big head, and I feel like an itty bitty bun brings attention to my head -_______-

Blouse :: Urban Outfitters (on sale)
Necklace :: Charlotte Russe
Pants :: Zara
Slingbacks :: Urban Outfitters (on sale)

♡Koos

Tutorial Posted!

2011-08-15T12:50:00.004-04:00

Hello Feisty ladies!

So the tutorials for the 5 Flat Twists and Twistout are up and live on YouTube. I've also posted them below for your viewing pleasure. I started using a new video editing program, so I'm excited about that, but it didn't create HD video, which makes me mad.

I'll work on getting that fixed for next time!

♡Koos

BO-RED

2011-08-12T16:00:00.001-04:00

I'm bored with my hair. I don't want to straighten it, I DEFINITELY don't want to cut it (I just dusted my ends so I'm not looking to trim it professionally until December), and I'm tired of the length.

So...I'm going to color my hair. Yes! COLOR! I've never done any type of processing to my hair in my whole life, and my hair is naturally jet black (henna has changed that a little, but not that much). I want to color my bangs a reddish-brown. Something slight, not too loud, but definitely a noticeable change.

Oh, and I think I'm going to do more roller sets. I used to LIVE in roller sets when I first started my HHJ (as you Faithful Feisties know all too well), and while the 5-flat-twists are convenient and give a great twist-out EVERY TIME, I need some variety.

Sigh...we'll see what happens. In the meantime, I suppose this top-knot will have to do.

♡Koos

Anna Jane's 5 Fall Essentials

2011-08-11T15:39:00.000-04:00

Style blogger Anna Jane Derkin from See Jane picks her 5 fall wardrobe essentials at Refinery29. I love the pieces she selected—the looks are easy to replicate with budget-friendly items, too. Check them out below:

Midi Skirts

Demure but sexy, grown-up yet on-trend, the midi is a style to suit all women. I, personally, am in love with these skirts. This silhouette is entirely appropriate for the office but also perfect for a night out on the town or a cozy dinner and drinks. Anna Jane suggests these skirts with a loose sweater and chunky accessories in order to loosen up the conservative style. I love the idea of midi skirts with tanks and blazers or a silk blouse. Speaking of which...

Versatile Silk Blouse

A silk blouse is an essential for any wardrobe. It can be worn dressed up or down, whether solo in the warmer months of fall or layer a blazer on top of it once it gets a bit chillier. Brands like Equipment, Forever21, Target, ASOS, and J. Crew are reinstating the importance of a classic blouse and, thus, making it easy to find one within any budget.

Military Inspired Outerwear

Over the years, probably due to this long-standing military-inspired womenswear, army green has turned from an accent color to a neutral. I actually first noticed the vest on Bee's and Krystal's blogs a few months ago and absolutely fell in love. Old Navy currently has these sleeveless vests for approximately one-third of the price that you would pay at many other retailers. Anna Jane suggests the outwear under blazers, over dresses and even with brightly colored pants.

Brightly Colored Pants

This trend is basically a spilling over from the spring. I've always the idea of colored pants in lieu of basic blue jeans or blah colored khakis. Its so fun and so BOLD! Its a great way to keep your fall and winter wardrobe from looking a little too dark. I've been yearning for a bright pair of wide-legged trousers which, I think, would be an awesome dressed up alternative.

Chelsea Style Boots

Perfect for wearing with jeans and a mannish coat, as well as minis and maxis, these boots are perfect for adding a splash of rock’n’roll to any look. Try these booties with cutoff shorts ad silk blouses on a warmer fall day to lightweight dresses with a blazer when it gets a little chilly. Booties are always a great wardrobe item because they can easily carry you from Fall to late Spring!

Brunch at RIS

2011-08-11T12:15:00.001-04:00

A large group of us got together the last Sunday in July for brunch at RIS. The restaurant is located in the cut (the only other establishments around are really ritzy hotels), but the food is GREAT and the staff is really accommodating (as in I changed the reservation the morning of AND had three people show up unexpectedly, and it was no problem).

There was pitcher of white sangria on deck!

Jaye's Steak and Egg.

My smoked salmon bagel =)

It was a super hot day, so I'm glad we dressed appropriately...

On Jaye:
Blouse: H&M
Shorts: H&M
Oxfords: Zara

Koos:
Crochet blouse: Forever 21
Skirt: Forever 21
Sandals: Aldo

I don't know why I wasn't eating brunch this often before. What a great way to spend a Sunday!

♡Koos

Bodycon.

2011-08-09T13:15:00.000-04:00

I love bodycon/bandage skirts and dresses. I wouldn't have thought of wearing a bodycon skirt to work or CHURCH for that matter, but I did, and it was fine.

The tunic made the outfit much more modest, and the length of the skirt balanced out the fact that it's more form-fitting.

Tunic: Zara
Belt: Thrifted
Skirt: Forever 21
Shoes: Urban Outfitters
Carryall: Coach

I have two bodycon dresses sitting in my online shopping cart. I think I'll head over to the checkout right now...

♡Koos

Sinful Colors

2011-08-07T10:45:00.001-04:00

No, I haven't turned to the "dark side." That's just the name of the nail polish brand I discovered at Target and INSTANTLY fell in love with. It just so happens to have a really terrible name o_O

At any rate, I like changing my nail color frequently, but it takes so much time, and then it chips in like 5 days, which is a pain. But Sinful Colors nail polish dries in 5 minutes. I promise you, 5 minutes (even less for a thin coat). This makes changing colors, and doing touch-ups mid-week, quick and painless. It does tend to dry with a matte finish, so use a shiny topcoat. This AMAZING blue color is "Aquamarine."

Oh, did I mention each bottle is only $1.99? Probably why I went a little crazy...

♡Koos

500 Followers!!!! Bring out the confetti!!!

2011-08-03T11:02:00.001-04:00

Thanks to all 500 of you Feisty Ladies! This is a really big deal!!! I still remember waaaaay back when we had 4, and 2 of them were Jaye and myself. We really appreciate that you read our blog!

WEEKLY WORD

2011-08-02T22:05:00.001-04:00

The Promise Keeper.

"The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is long-suffering toward us, not willing that anyone should perish, but that all should come to repentance."

2 Peter 3:8-10

Two weeks or so ago, I was feeling really stressed because of some family issues. I'm very close to my immediate family, and when things are shaky at home, it really affects me. I had been praying, but it seemed like nothing was happening. In some cases, it looked like things were getting worse. There's nothing more frustrating then to pray sincerely and have nothing happen!

One day two weeks ago I was on the train heading to work, and I had my iPod on shuffle. I wasn't even listening to the music because my mind was so consumed by what was happening at home. I don't know how many songs had played, but I finally paid attention when I heard these lyrics:

"Seasons come and then they go,/but all You've established shall hold fast, and on that we can rest assured./And beyond imaginations,/every promise You have given me will come true.

I see You so sovereign/You are the only God so wise; in Your hands You hold my times./I can hold You to Your Word./You're never wavering, You won't turn, for I am sure/You are the Promise Keeper."

Oh, Fred Hammond.

I played "Promise Keeper" on repeat for the rest of the train ride, on the Metro, and on the walk to my office. It was hard to hold back the tears as I walked down 13th Street, NW. I realized that things happen, seasons come and go, but God is steadfast and He will not fail to keep His promises to me. God has promised all of us that He will finish the good works He has started in us (Philippians 1:6). I believe God's hand is still on my family, and He's going to make this alright. And God has shown up since that day, and He has proven to me that He is keeping His promises as far as my family is concerned.

It's easy to think that God has forgotten His promises when we can't see Him moving. There are things I've been diligently bringing to God in prayer for years, and there are times I wonder if all the time spent on my knees has been in vain. But I need to have the faith that God is not slack concerning His promises. He has promised us so many things! The next time you're tempted to give up on God, claim one (or all) of the promises below...He is faithful!

And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28)
Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. (Hebrews 10:23)
No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it. (1 Corinthians 10:13)
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6,7)
Therefore know that the LORD your God, He is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and mercy for a thousand generations with those who love Him and keep His commandments. (Deuteronomy 7:9)
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. (Jeremiah 29:11)

♡Koos

Sushi & Such

2011-08-02T15:15:00.002-04:00

Laurel, MD, isn't the most "happening" place in the DMV, but it does possess one gem: Sake Japanese Steak House. Jaye and I went out with another Feisty friend (shown below) for some good old fashioned sushi and girl talk. The tempura rolls are amazing, and the drinks were good too!

♡Koos

'Can I touch it?' The fascination with natural, African-American hair

2011-07-25T16:00:00.001-04:00

via CNN...

"Tamara Winfrey Harris tells a story of being in a chain restaurant with her husband when their names were called for a table.

Just as the couple rose to go, a middle-aged white woman standing nearby reached out swiftly to touch Winfrey Harris's hair which at the time was styled in natural twists.

'She missed by mere seconds, she was actually going to grab my hair as I walked past her,' recalled Winfrey Harris who runs the blog What Tami Said. 'I turned around and she said, 'Oh, your hair is neat.' It just floored me because who does that, just reaches out and touches strangers?' "

Sound familiar, feisty ladies? To read the rest of the article, visit CNN.

Empire State...of mind.

2011-07-22T18:00:00.000-04:00

I did a lot of "tourist-y" things this NY trip, and it was a lot of fun. Broadway (The Lion King is amazing) was one stop, and the Empire State Building was another.

I wore one of my FAVORITE shirts there. I found this shirt at Target. I bought it first in black, and started wearing it all the time, so I bought it in taupe. I LOVE these shirts. They never wrinkle, they always look clean, and they go with EVERYTHING! They're amazing.

I know every 5 seconds I'm obsessed or in love with another item of clothing. That's just how I am--I work in extremes. I either love something or hate it =)

Blouse: Target
High-Waist Shorts: Forever21
Belt: Thrifted

♡Koos

It's just too damn hot.

2011-07-22T09:07:00.002-04:00

I'm not wearing my hair out anymore. I can't. Just the thought of all that hair in my face makes me sweat. So I've been lazy. I've been wearing these twists. And I don't care.

Do you see the look on my face? This heat is doing the most.

♡Koos

SoHo, NY

2011-07-21T12:15:00.003-04:00

Kittichai is a great restaurant located in the Thompson Hotel in SoHo. My coworker and her boyfriend introduced me, and now I'm hooked to their brunch menu. And the lychee bellinis? Don't even get me started...

I'm addicted to bright colors and cropped tops right now. I bought yellow not too long ago (I can't wait to show you!) and I'm going back to American Apparel for one more crop...in white.

Cropped top: American Apparel
Trousers: Zara
Sandals: Charlotte Russe

♡Koos

if you're noncommittal like i am...

2011-07-15T19:05:00.001-04:00

Sally's Beauty Supply Store currently has Millennia Mud Reconstructor packets on sale for $0.29!! This is an excellent conditioner and Koos often rants and raves about it in her posts. If you were ever interested in trying it out but were hesitant to purchase an entire bottle... check your local Sally's! I scooped up 4 and paid $1.33 :)

Getting my money's worth.

2011-07-14T09:42:00.005-04:00

I went to Lincoln for brunch with one of my besties =) It's a really cute place and it has a President Lincoln theme. The floor is "tiled" with pennies, and there are mason jars hanging as light fixtures. Very different and cute.

This is my orange maxi skirt from Zara. I love this skirt (you all did too =) and I refuse to only wear it once because I took pictures in it. It was a $60 skirt, AND I had to pay to get it tailored, so...ya'll do the math (lol). I am going to wear this skirt until it falls apart.

♡Koos

WEEKLY WORD

2011-07-10T18:27:00.004-04:00

If you're new to The Feisty House, you have no idea what the "Weekly Word" is. If you've been reading from the beginning, then you know that the "Weekly Word" was our weekly devotional thought straight from the minds of Jaye and I. We stopped doing them for a while, mostly because I thought they seemed out of place on a hair blog, but with so many of you reading this blog, it's ridiculous that we don't use it to share the love of Christ. So...let's give a warm "welcome back" to our "Weekly Word." =)

This Relationship is Almost Over.

But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ. Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ and be found in Him.

[Philippians 3:7-9]

Have you ever been in a relationship with someone and known that it wasn't going to last much longer? There are more arguments. You spend more time away from the person. And when you do spend time with him, you really aren't excited. You meet other guys and wonder why you're still in a relationship. Well, I'm going through that right now.

But not with my boyfriend.

My relationship with this world (when I say "world," I'm referring to everything that is anti-God, not Planet Earth and its inhabitants) is coming to an end. I can feel it. I find myself wrestling with sin a lot more than I was before--I just don't want to sin. I'm spending more time talking to God and less time watching certain television shows and particpating in certain secular activities. My conscience gnaws at me when I am in these secular situations and I'm not really excited. And the more I learn about God and what it truly means to be a Christian, the more I wonder why I'm in this love-hate relationship with the things of this world.

We don't always end relationships once we realize they're no longer a good fit for us. Sometimes the memories of the good times keep us in relationships longer than we need to be, leading us to think that things will get back to when it was all good. I remember all of the good times I've had at certain places and doing certain things, and those memories are keeping me from ending my relationship with the world. I think that there will be a time when I can enjoy those activities again without feeling convicted, and sometimes I do have a good time! Other times...I'm pretty much miserable. And when I remember how comfortable it is to be in my sin (sins I'm not gonna mention for sake of not airing my dirty laundry lol), it's difficult for me walk away. Instead I stay, hoping that I'll be able to get back to the place where my sin didn't make me feel guilty.

But my relatioship with the world hasn't gotten any better. I don't feel as close to the world as I used to, and the tender feelings I used to have for the world haven't come back. Instead the world repulses me more and more each day, and I know that soon I'll have to end this relationship and move on. Getting to that point of moving on from my relationship with the world will take time, and as I write this post I know that I'm not there yet, but I praise God that I even want to be there.

Pray that I get to that point sooner than later!

♡Koos

back out.

2011-07-10T02:00:00.002-04:00

I spent half of my 4th of July weekend in Augusta, GA. We went to a festival downtown and I was surprised to find a Caribbean restaurant!

I lucked out in finding this shirt at Forever21. It's perfect for summer outings. I'm sure you haven't seen the last of it on this blog :)

♡Koos

Regimen and products currently in rotation.

2011-06-29T09:51:00.002-04:00

Now that you know what products I'm using, I can give a simplified version of my regimen:

Wash with shampoo every 4-6 weeks
Protein treatment every 4-6 weeks
Henna every 4-6 weeks
Cowash/detangle every week
Deep condition every week
Use leave-in conditioner every week
Moisturize daily with Curls pomade (Curlformer sets, old straight hair)
Moisturize daily with Curl & Style Milk (Curlformer sets)
Moisturize daily with Totally Twisted, Hold & Shine Mist (Braid/Twist outs)
Moisturize daily with EVCO (newly straightened hair)
Seal daily with EVCO (all styles)

I really don't do that much with my hair. I do not wear protective styles. Sometimes I will end up wearing my five flat twists as a style, or I may put my hair into a bun or updo, but that's about it. If I'm wearing my hair in a twist-out or braid-out, then I re-twist/re-braid my hair every night, and that's when I do the majority of my moisturizing and sealing. I always tie down my hair with a satin scarf, or if my hair is in Curlformers I wear a satin bonnet or sleep on a satin pillowcase.

The best addition to my regimen has definitely been my leave-in conditioner. My hair is overly porous, meaning it's hard for my hair to keep moisture in. One way to reduce porosity is to monitor the pH balance of your hair. Once I started using an acidic leave-in, my hair held on to moisture better. Hair that is retains more moisture doesn't break easily, and hair that doesn't break gets longer. I definitely attribute a lot of my length retention to this leave-in recipe.

Hopefully that was helpful! I know you all are probably wondering where is the "5 Flat Twists" tutorial video. It's definitely on its way. I was super busy the past few weeks, but once my hair is back to being curly again (the end of next week), I'll shoot a video.

♡Koos

Length Check Vid.

2011-06-28T13:00:00.001-04:00

I didn't want to make the length check post longer than it already was, so I'm posting the video separately. Enjoy!

♡Koos

flowers.

2011-06-27T08:42:00.004-04:00

I like the flower detail on this shirt. It just makes it hard to wear my hair down (it looks awkward to me) so I pinned up my hair (the texture is from 5 flat twists).

I look a little bit juvenile in these pictures. For some reason, I always end up looking super young when I put my hair up. Le sigh...

H&M blouse & skirt (shortened)
Forever21 pumps

♡Koos

WHAT A SURPRISE!

2011-06-26T15:00:00.004-04:00

Well I couldn't hold back any longer: I used this past Thursday and Friday to straighten my hair. Not necessarily because I wanted my hair to be straight, but because I NEEDED to see how long it was. Boy was I surprised!

On Thursday night I washed my hair with Suave Daily Clarifying Shampoo and then detangled with Suave Naturals Pomegranate Conditioner using my wide-tooth shower comb and then a modified Denman brush. After rinsing my hair, I used Millennia Mud as a deep conditioner for 30 minutes. Then I did a final cold water/Aloe vera juice rinse (50/50 water and aloe vera juice) and used a t-shirt to dry my hair.

Once my hair was just a bit damp, I spritzed it with Aphogee Keratin & Green Tea Restructurizer. Then I used a blowdryer and a round brush to blowdry and straighten my hair. I separated my hair into 24 sections and kept my hair as tight as I could on the brush. I used my blowdryer's highest heat setting and highest power setting:

I could tell from the blowout that my hair was much longer than it was when I first cut it in December. I added Fantasia IC Heat Protecting Serum to my hair, put it in 5 flat twists, and when to work the next day. When I got home, I used my Sedu flat iron to straighten my hair at 410 degrees. I did VERY TINY sections, pulling on my hair with one hand and using the flat iron in the other. I did no more than three passes on each section (in most places, I only needed two passes to get my hair really straight). Here's what it looks like now...

*insert drum roll here*

I'm past APL again! Here are some comparisions of where my hair was after I got it cut (December 2010) and where my hair is now (June 2011):

And here's a shot of where my hair was 3 months ago (March 2011) compared to now.

I'm really pleased with my progress! My hair is just shy of where it was before my hair cut (October 2010).

It feels good to have validation that I'm doing the right things when it comes to my hair. The next time I straighten will be 3 months from now in September. I'm going to a friend's wedding, and I plan on getting a trim then as well (NOT from the same lady who did it before LOL). I really, really, REALLY want to be BSL by then. I think I should be able to retain a good amount of length in 3 months if I stick to my regimen. I'm so excited!!!!

♡Koos

Way too cute!

2011-06-24T09:00:00.000-04:00

This hair bow clip is just darling, isn't it? I bought it at American Apparel for $14. The nude/khaki color is a great investment because it goes with everything, but I'm definitely going back for either red or yellow.

♡Koos

meet Julia

2011-06-23T10:13:00.000-04:00

I've always seen pics of her on my Tumblr dashboard and scattered through the fashion streetstyle blogs but I never could find out who she was. Today was my lucky day because someone finally posted her name with a pic. I stared at this photo of her in the neon skirt and mod shades and afrolicious hair and didn't blink for about 5 minutes. Meet Julia Sarr-Jamois.

From what I could find on these interwebs, Julia is a 23 year old model-turned-editor for Wonderland Magazine. I love her hair and her eclectic style :)

Central Park

2011-06-22T09:00:00.004-04:00

My boyfriend is my personal photographer, and he's actually pretty good at it. Without even trying. He has a great eye (he's an artist), so I love taking advantage of his photog skills when we're together!

We spent much of our NYC weekend in Central Park West. We had brunch on Sunday at a Jewish deli (nom nom nom) and then went for a stroll in Central Park. I love this skirt from Zara! It's so bright, and I like that it's a tad sheer. I had to get it altered to fit my natural waist. The skirt was originally a low-waisted skirt, but I knew I wanted to wear a cropped top with it and didn't want to show too much bellybutton.

Oh...and we went canoeing. Fun!

Hat: Forever21
Earrings: Forever21
Necklace: Forever21
Cropped blouse: American Apparel (one of my new fave places)
Skirt: Zara (my #1 fave place)
Chunky platforms: Aldo

♡Koos

Versace for H&M (^_^)

2011-06-21T11:11:00.000-04:00

H&M does some amazing things!!! WHOOOOOO!!!

The Versace for H&M collection will draw inspirations from Versace archives since '78 . Expect to see lots of body-con patterned dresses, ultra-sexy tops, and pants and skirts that fit into a discotheque in Ibiza. The line will launch November 17, 2011 in 300 stores as well as online (well... there's not online shopping available for us US folk "/)

Any of you excited about this collabo?

source

SoHo and East Village

2011-06-21T09:00:00.009-04:00

I met up with friends in SoHo for brunch at Kittichai restaurant in the Thompson hotel. It was so dreary in SoHo and rainy that I'm surprised my hair held up as well as it did. After brunch (smoked salmon and naan bread...and bottemless lychee bellinis o_O) I went on a cupcake run in East Village before meeting back up with my boyfriend.

I love this blouse from Zara!!! The colors are perfect for a proud Gator grad like myself =) I wore a lot of Zara stuff on this trip, actually. I've been consciously doing more shopping at Zara because I can't keep shopping at H&M. LOL everyone in DC wears H&M. I can't keep seeing my clothes on other people. Unfortunately Zara is more expensive, so I can't buy as much stuff as often, but it's worth it! And Zara has great stuff! I'm not ridiculous though...I have to sneak into H&M once in a while ;)

Striped blouse: Zara
Jeggings: Forever21
Purse: Thrifted
Sandals: Charlotte Russe

♡Koos

Williamsburg, Brooklyn

2011-06-20T09:00:00.006-04:00

Two weekends ago I was in NYC with my boyfriend, and I had the most amazing time! We spent our visit in Central Park West, but visited with his friend in Williamsburg. It's such a cute neighborhood!

I had been looking for a new Panama hat, but couldn't find one to fit my head (yes, I have a big head, and when you add big hair...it gets difficult). This one fits just fine, and I like that it's not the same basic one that EVERYONE seems to be wearing this summer. Underneath the hat...5 flat twists (of course).

Hat: Forever21
Blouse: Zara
Jeggings: Forever21
Sandals: Charlotte Russe

♡Koos

if i could define my taste in 5 photographs...

2011-06-16T14:07:00.000-04:00

textured and tailored

Balenciaga

mixed prints + trinkets

new designer: Josh Goot

Kanye performing at MOMA

i love fashion ...more as an art than just styling. and, i have this covert love of photography which makes me partially obsessed with street style blogs. jakandjil happens to one of my favorites off all time because they have such a nice mix of fashion and pop and amazing photography.

Anyway, If I could define my fashion tastes in 5 photographs, this would be the perfect description of all i love!! I love love love love menswear. I love textured fabrics and mixing prints and funky trinkets; I think it makes for a more interesting and personalized look. I'm all about a splash of quirk. I love new designers. I love the classics but I love the energy, hunger, and fresh perspective of a new brand. Josh Goot's collection was amazing! I am obsessed with shoes; more specifically fun and interesting statement heels. Sometimes, I wish I wasn't 5'6" so I wouldn't be Amazon-esque in 5-6" heels... I mean, men aren't getting any taller, ya know? They actually seem to be getting shorter O_o

Kanye West can do know wrong in my eyes. Very similar to Corinne Bailey Rae. I don't care what anyone ever says. He is the true definition of just an artist; he spews creativity

(source)

The Feisty House

Time for a new watch (no pun intended)

Is the natural hair movement...dead?

All worked up.

Work Hard, Play Hard

Restaurant Week :: La Tasca

VALENTINE'S GIVEAWAY

Rainy Day Hair

Winter weather? I think not...

I need to stay off this website...

Tough meets Girly

New Coat. New Shoes.

WEEKLY WORD

Just for me. Just because.

Mad shrinkage

You mustn't take yourself too seriously.

New blog up and running...I think.

Where are the Black fashion bloggers?

NYE

Bantu Knot Practice

Fly Five Event...yes I'm super late.

Bantu Knots for New Year's?

Thanks Grandma!

Christmas Day

my latest obsession

Playing catch-up

Merry Christmas!

Changes.

River Island...I ♡ you.

30 before 30

SIGH...I may need to reel it in.

the weekEND

A high of 60

Getting ready for dinner

WEEKLY WORD

I just shot a video!

Countdown

Sightseeing

Wash day tomorrow. Shall I try the finger coils?

Lady in red

Not that cold

Flat Iron Curls

WEEKLY WORD

Super Siced!

Sephora

New fave: cropped sweaters

I straightened again.

SCARVES

13th Street Shopping

A little bit vintage.

Doing the Polka

I forgot all about this style!

WEEKLY WORD

Comfortable in my own skin.

I promise I'm still here.

Target to the rescue!

Bleh no more

WEEKLY WORD

Curling Souffle

Bleh.

*inhales, screams* FINALLY!!!!!!!!! *jumps up and down*

Fuchsia and Hot Pink - Casual Thursday?

Power Lunch

WEEKLY WORD

PANTS

Men's Shirt Fun!

Something new

Nightie Aphrodites

Next styling attempt

Wicked

WEEKLY WORD

Fresh Face

top.knot

Tutorial Posted!

BO-RED

Anna Jane's 5 Fall Essentials

Brunch at RIS

Bodycon.

Sinful Colors

500 Followers!!!! Bring out the confetti!!!

inhales, screams FINALLY!!!!!!!!! jumps up and down