Today is the first of Year 2 at longlocks for my journal.
I hope this year will be more about growing length and learning more in appreciating my wave and how to maximize healthy results.
I will continue to post pics, atleast for now this journal will load much faster!!!
I feel I've already come a long way from where this journey began.

If there are any Jobim fans out there, you'll notice that the title of this journal is taken from "The Wave".  I love that song, and pretty much all of his music.

I'm so happy to have gotten my exchange person-she's just who I was hoping for.  Not that I wouldn't have been totally pleased to receive every name on that list but when I saw everyone who had signed up I just thought to myself "Oh, I hope I get her".  Silly, huh?

Bought some longer duckbill clips for my plopping and some magic grips bobby pins.  I seem to think that 13bodies has mentioned them.  I got the clear ones.  Will let you know how they go...

Happy almost birthday and I hope your plopping goes well. Yeah for new years and new journals and new experiences.
Meg

Yeahhh!! New Journal for Ariel!!
Btw what's plopping??

I was wondering when you too would start a new journal. :D

Happy Longlocks anniversary and good hair growing vibes!

Congrats on the new journal, Sakina! :)

Happy Longlocks Anniversary! :D

I LOVE the title, very 8)

Happy Anniversary!  It's great to be a part of your journey to the ultimate long, wavy, luscious bellydancer hair!

Cynde

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SAKINA!!!!!  :-*  :-*  :-*

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b244/Beesan19/bday.gif

Have a great one, Sakina :-*

[glb]Happy Birthday![/glb]

Happy Birthday, Sakina!!! ;D

[glb]HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!![/glb]

I hope you had a great birthday, Sakina!  I like the title of your new journal.  I am so used to looking for your multi-page journal!  I'm sure I'll still be able to find ya~ ;)

Happy Bday and Happy Anniversary! Nice way to start  off the year!

Thanks, EVERYONE!  I've gotten really busy lately with my new ballet classes starting and subbing extra yoga classes for the last several weeks.  Sorry it has taken me so long to acknowledge you!

Whew!  I haven't taken my birthday dinner yet 'cause hubby's got a cold so maybe next week.

When hubby asked me what I want for my birthday, I said I'd like to wait until we're in Indonesia this summer and buy lots of Balinese jewelry.  Last time I was there my hair was short so I didn't look for hair stuff.  I wonder if I'll find any.

He still gave me a card, some chocolates and took 1/2 a day off on my bday to take me out to breakfast.  It was really sweet!

My cats are having problems-I think it is because my schedule has changed and I'm home less.  Argh.  I hope this will pass soon before Sweetie and Ziggy kill each other.

I've worn my hairsticks to ballet yesterday and today-FUN!  Of course no one said anything about it  :P
I really like my teacher-she's not out to kill us and wants to make ballet accessible to everyone.  (Even uncoordinated people like me!!  Of the arts, I think music is more my thing than ballet although I have picked up bellydancing pretty easily.  I don't get the "think about the step coming next" yet.)

This coming Tuesday is bellydancing.  Guitar has moved to Thursdays.  Not clear if I'm going or coming right now!

Have begun an Ayurvedic routine:
Wake up between 6am-7am
Pray
Drink water left in copper cup overnight
Sit on toilet
Splash face w/cool water, rinse mouth
Brush teeth & scrape tongue, gargle w/warm sesame oil
Put warm sesame oil up nostrils
Do asanas
Do pranayam
Meditate
Warm oil massage on whole body, including face and head (hair)
Shower
Eat breakfast
Go to work

At night:
Eat dinner at 6pm
Read
Drink hot milk w/ginger, cardamom and tumeric
Rub small amount of warm sesame oil on scalp and soles of feet
Brush teeth, gargle
Go to bed at 10pm

I started this on my birthday.  Figured it is a good way to keep track of when I started it.  I feel more at peace and centered with this routine.  I am adjusting-last night I put too much tumeric in my evening milk and about 2pm today it cleaned out my system.  3 times.  Tumeric is really bright yellow against porcelain white!

I know it will be a challenge to keep a routine-I need them to calm my system but I have a natural aversion to them.

Next time...
awesome green tea chai recipe!

I've decided to put my collection here so I won't have to hunt up my retired journal.  This could take a while...

Chinoiserie Original
Green Toumaline Glitter
Gilded Nutmeg Gemstix
Gothic Midnight II Geisha
Electric Ice Original
Opal Petals Bridal
La Jolla Geisha
Shanghi Rapunzel
Emerald Myst
Sapphire Myst
Glass Gardens Duet
Autumn Oak Swing
Indicolite Sea Duet
Silver Myst
Blue Sky Glimmer
Silver Dove Spiral
Star Shadow
Peac0ck Flash Foil
Purple Smoke Gem
Raspberry Frappe Gem
China Sky Gem
Botswana Rose Gem
Aqua Freeze Foil
Ruby Romance Swing
Night Angel Spiral
Good Cheer Spiral
Zircon Waters Spiral
Opposites Attract Duet
Creamed Coffee Duet
Colorado Gold Majestix
Imperial Highness Shadow
Sultan's Mistress Sterling
Violet Noir Shadow
Mariah Swing
Royal Blush Shadow
Ripe Peach Glimmer
Frozen Sun Myst
Pearl Mist Geisha
Fan Tasy Original
Green Sea Shadow
Wedding Grape Glimmer
Sparkling Rainbow Shadow
Exotic Aqua Shadow
Green T Sterling
Pinks Sterling
Blooming Pearls Sterling
Ocean Fantasy Fantasystix
Twinkling Stars Majestix
Mystical Peac0ck Myst
Midnight Sparkle Sterling
Meadow Sage Sterling
Butterfly Spring Individual
Bridal Frost Bridal
Bridal Lily
Gilded Midnight Futuristix
Pink Valentine Shadowstix
Winter Raindrops Swingstix
Spring Lilac Geishastix
Primrose Petals Geishastix
Crystal Wedding Bridalstix
Pastel Forest Originalstix
Peking Opera II and
Violet Lily SpiralStix
Zircon Goddess Shadowstix
Pearl Glitz Glitterstix
Capri Aubergine Glitterstix
Midnight Rosebuds Glitterstix
Lilac Chintz GlimmerStix
Spring Nebulae Holostix
Sparkling Twilight GlitterStix
Morning GeishaStix
Oriental Peony Original Hairstix
Pearlagance Sterlingstix
Purple Currant NeonStix
Gilded Turquoise FoilStix
Oriental Plum Original Hairstix
Glow GeishaStix
Seafoam Seduction Geishastix
Captured Plum ShadowStix
Aqua Lily ShadowStix
Bronze Leaf FantasyStix
Wild Fuchsia FantasyStix
Modern Bride BridalStix
Whipped Purples SpiralStix
Irish Moss SpiralStix
Soho GeishaStix
Azure Pearl GeishaStix
Bridal Cameo BridalStix
February's Daughter GeishaStix
Sea Nymph Glitterstix SE
Montana Rain Individualistix SE
Capri Sceptre Glitterstix
Paris Night Individualistix
Deepest Space Holostix
Lilac Starlight Holostix
Bloo Moon SE Holostix
Paris Disco Futuristix
Ice Garden Pearlistix
Dusty Violets Shadowstix SE
Violet Mystique Gemstix
Dark Knight Gemstix
Pink Wave Decostix SE
Glittering Chameleon Glitterstx
Swing Cherry Swingstix
Pewter Stardust SterlingStix
Sterling Stream SterlingStix SE
Celtic Mist GeishaStix
Shimmering Orchid ArtiStix
Divine Morn ArtiStix
Red Rose Decostix
Plum Posey Futuristix SE
Simply Chic LL Original Hairsticks
Mind's Eye Glimmerstix SE
Venice Burns Glimmerstix
Pastel Skies Swingstix
Seamaid's Seduction Spiralstix
Lilac Explosion Artistix
Magic Clouds Decostix
Moss Swirl FantasyStix
Forest Frost RapunzelStix
Midnight Bouquet ShadowStix
Twisted Pink ShadowStix
Fine Cocoa ShadowStix
Jade Sea MystStix
Sea Pink GemStix
Electric Violet SugarStix
Serene Garden SugarStix
Daydreams DecoStix
Amethyst Sublime SpiralStix
Aqua Bubbles SpiralStix
Onyx Sophisticate SwingStix
January's Fire SpiralStix
Very Cherry IndividualiStix
Sinful Cinnabar RapunzelStix
Rose Deco RoseStix


ETA:new addition(s) to the collection

You are the queen of hairsticks - I bow to your greatness.

;D

Wow look at that collection! :o

Thanks  ;D

My hair feels really soft today-I think the daily oiling is improving my overall general dryness.

The Yogi Chhai recipe, from Fit Yoga magazine, feb 2006

1 1/2 cups spring or filtered water
1 bag (or 1 teaspoon) green tea (reg or decaf)

1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
pinch of ground cloves
1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
2 tablespoons soy milk or non-fat cow milk
1 tablspoon honey (optional)

1. In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil over high heat.  Remove pan from heat.

2. Add the tea and spices.  Let steep for 5 minutes.

3. Remove tea.  Add milk and/or honey.

4. Enjoy immediately.

This is sooooooo good.  Warming and soothing and helps sluggish digestion, which is common in winter.  I double the recipe and add the spices to the boiling water, then turn the heat off and add the tea.  Gives a stronger spice flavor.  I use cow's milk-organic low fat.  Mmmmmmmmmm.  Makes me happy!!!  Let me know if you try it!!!  8)

Sakina, thankyou for that delicious chai green tea recipe! it was wonderful :). Although i didnt have ginger or cloves. it still came out great. so comforting and smooth. i used 2% milk. yum. so soothing to the soul.

If we ever start "Hairsticks Anonymous" I know who should be the president.   8)

Of course that means we'd have to admit to having a problem and we don't so... ;D

No, the problem is not collecting hairsticks but the continuing inadequacy of our collections.  :P

I agree- you should put "Queen of Hairsticks" to your sig! Because that's who you are! ;D

There are so many of the ones I missed >:( >:( in that awesome collection of yours, Ariel!!  :P :P
Hahahahaha  ;D ;D

Between the two of you - it is surprising ANY of us have ANY LongLocks Stix!!  ;D

Good thing Susan likes to work alot - and makes lots and lots of stix.  ;)

Thanks for the kudos, but my collection is wee small comparied to GREEK_LADY'S!  I have less than half so...I'll just be the "Hairstick Mistress", 'cause G-L's the real "Queen of Hairsticks"!

I'm also the snot mistress these days-either allergies or a cold have attacked my nose.  I am starting to feel better, I hope this doesn't last as long as last time, although that was chest stuff.

One thing I wanted to mention- in my new bellydancing class on Tuesday, there is a lady who's hair is mid-thigh.  She kept in a bubba tail while we were in class.  I haven't met her yet, but I'm a gonna ask her if I can see it unbound sometime.  Many of the others have BSL to waist length hair!!!  Annnnddd then there's me.  Maybe my hair will feel competitive and really kick in the growth!

I've got my red gift, I think I'll be sending hubby to mail it tomorrow.  The way I'm feeling, I likely would pass out if I had to wait in line at the post office.  So I'll send him.

wrote on Jan 30^th, 2006 at 7:21am:

Sakina, thankyou for that delicious chai green tea recipe! it was wonderful :). Although i didnt have ginger or cloves. it still came out great. so comforting and smooth. i used 2% milk. yum. so soothing to the soul.

I'm glad you tried it!  It is very soothing :-)

wrote on Feb 3^rd, 2006 at 3:27pm:

One thing I wanted to mention- in my new bellydancing class on Tuesday, there is a lady who's hair is mid-thigh.  She kept in a bubba tail while we were in class.  I haven't met her yet, but I'm a gonna ask her if I can see it unbound sometime.  Many of the others have BSL to waist length hair!!!  Annnnddd then there's me.  Maybe my hair will feel competitive and really kick in the growth!

What's a bubba tail? That sounds interesting. Congrats on so many hair sticks. That must give you lots of options. Are you having fun with your belldancing? It sounds interesting, but something I don't know if I have the guts to try.
Meg

Sheesh!  I haven't posted in a week.  

Meg-the bubba tail is a segmented pony tail, using equally spaced scrunchies or bands down the length of the pony tail.

Bellydancing is very fun, although you feel like you have no clue and no control over your body when your first begin.  Repetitive movements eventually create new nuropathways that make the movements easier.  I especially like the costume aspect of it, besides it feels good once you know what you're doing.

Yesterday I got a trim.  About 1/4".  Neither hubby or mom could tell I got it cut.  Heehee.

No voice lesson today-teacher is sick.  Without the rain our air quality is very poor and everyone is getting sick and/or staying sick.  Dear God/dess, please send rain soon.  Thanks.

Full moon is on its way-the cats are acting crazy!

wrote on Feb 10^th, 2006 at 9:02pm:

Full moon is on its way-the cats are acting crazy!

People do too, Ariel!  ;D ;D
I'm thinking of having my hair hennaed red and put in some layers and  and and.... LOL

Oh, Greek_Lady you never cease to crack me up  ;D  ;D

I don't know about henna, having stopped coloring my hair a year ago but if you want to enhance your waves I'd go for the layers.  Long layers.  Then you just have to be a bit more patient when pinning up a bun.  I am so glad I tried it growing out my layers and then noting that my hair is too thick w/the waves to keep it one length.  I truly love my layers!!

Oh my achin' feet!  Yesterday's ballet class was a killer and then we did more of the same today!  That stupid slip on the wet pavement in October has the ball of my right foot really sore.  I hope it goes away...soon!

Traffic was so bad today.  Stupid full moon & blue hairs.  Hmmm.  I'm feeling hostile, better go meditate.  After my Singapore noodle bowl and House of the Dead 2.  Guess they weren't so dead the first time (heehee).

Today I wore a braid to work.  I knew I was going to teach some postures on the back and I can't comfortably wear my hairsticks in a bun during those poses.  This was my first braid since having the layers cut in.  I was pleasantly suprised-no pokey outie bits.  It tapered perfectly and stayed in with poses on the back and a lengthy nap.  It is a bit messy now but all in all a great success.  I will most likely wear my hair this way to work much more now.  Yay.  I am wearing buns and sticks to ballet, of course.

Still recovering from ballet.  It has been so long since I felt like I had worked out-good memories from before my accident.  Thank goodness I don't have to teach tomorrow 'cause bellydancing is Tuesday night.  Whew-let the poinds drop off!

wrote on Jan 29^th, 2006 at 10:29pm:

Thanks  ;D The Yogi Chhai recipe, from Fit Yoga magazine, feb 2006 1 1/2 cups spring or filtered water 1 bag (or 1 teaspoon) green tea (reg or decaf) 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon pinch of ground cloves 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger 2 tablespoons soy milk or non-fat cow milk 1 tablspoon honey (optional) 1. In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil over high heat.  Remove pan from heat. 2. Add the tea and spices.  Let steep for 5 minutes. 3. Remove tea.  Add milk and/or honey. 4. Enjoy immediately.

I tried it this weekend.  I added a couple of black peppercorns and used coconut milk.  Yummy!   ;D

wrote on Feb 12^th, 2006 at 12:25am:

Traffic was so bad today.  Stupid full moon & blue hairs.

Hee hee, blue hairs. AZ is funny that way, huh?

A bubba tail sounds interesting and so does belly dancing. Is it usually a single gender class or does it mix sometimes?
Meg

Meg,
Most often bellydancing is just girls, but there are male dancers, too.  Their costumes look genie like, and they dance with sticks that emulates fighting.
Most people here in the US don't know there are male bellydancers.

I took hubby to a bellydancing class-he complained about how difficult it is.

13bodies,
I'm so glad you enjoyed it!  Your modifications sound interesting!!

wrote on Feb 14^th, 2006 at 1:02am:

Most people here in the US don't know there are male bellydancers.

Count me as one of those people. Cool, I learn something new everyday at LL. :)

((sound of dragging feet))
(((echoing sound of dragging feet)))
((((sound of dragging feet getting closer))))

Yep.  Its me dragging my feet.  I'm so stuck with some bad eating habits and I'm dragging my feet about changing them.  Maybe it's because my moon is about to start.  Hormones.  :P

Yesterday I asked to be taken off the schedule at one of the gyms I've been teaching at for nearly 4 years.

I'm fried on teaching.  I can feel my brain in its cup thick and hard and dull and fried.  I may start looking for a new career.
I still have 3 classes a week.

Perhaps I will finally step fully on to the path of the Artist.  Don't know if I have the balls to do it.

On the hair front, my waves are getting quite comfortable on my head.  I continue to use Ouidad's Curl Quencher products and feel the wave is beginning to travel up higher towards the root or I've just gotten much better at scrunching in the gel.
I'm taking Banyan Botanicals Healthy Hair supplements, made up of 3 herbs that are the primo hair herbs in Ayurveda.  At night I'm applying Bhrami oil to the roots of my hair.  Bhrami is an herb steeped in organic sesame oil and is one of the herbs in the supplement.  I am washing my hair everyday, will excellent results.
I'm also drinking a cup of hot organic fat free milk with 1/8t of tumeric, ginger powder and cardamom before bed-calcium is good for hair, too.
Usually someone who has trouble calming her brain down to get to sleep, I feel the relaxing effects of the milk before I'm 1/2 done with my mug.  This is a good habit for me.  ;)

Skin crazy dry.  Need rain.  Humidifiers constantly running, helps sinus but not skin.  Now I'm really flakey in more ways than one!

OH MY!!!!  You sound like you are suffering from the winter blues.  :-/  I'm sure the beautiful full moon has nothing to do with it.  ;D

Making major changes can be difficult - I'll send you positive vibes to help with your decision making.

Thanks, BB.  I really think I'll be floating for a bit, which will be hard to surrender to.  I'd love to go on a retreat for a month or so somewhere far away...
I need to make changes, but I'm not ready yet.

The winds are very high and its giving me a headache.  It started yesterday morning 3am ish and keeps fading and then coming back.  Guess I'll be cancelling appointments today.

Time for tea-laters!

Poor Sakina...I feel your pain.

Not only has my skin been drying out for lack of humidity, but I totally know where you're coming from about feeling so burned out. I'm in the same boat.  :P

I've been thinking about taking a hiatus from the net myself. Not disappearing completely, just not patronizing it as much.  ;)  

I'm also burned out on work - on the whole stupid routine of daily life. Things have to change or we're just going to go completely off the deep end.  :P

Best of luck in pursuing whatever newfound goals/interests/hobbies you have. Hopefully they will lead you in the right direction. And...you'll have your beautiful hair to see you through every step of your journey.

:-* Hope things get better for you!

Thanks, Angel Spun.  :)

Today I said goodbye to my Saturday class.  They were shocked but very supportive of my new adventures.  I handed out my business card to keep in touch if they wish.

One more class left, this Tuesday.

Today my hair was really almost dry when I scrunched in some gel.  It gave me super gentle waves.  Not as defined as when my hair is damp so it was a happy accident.

Another hair note-seems like I've reached a new level of length where it felt almost too long to leave down when teaching.  Since I've been having the headache I need to leave my hair down as not to aggrivate it so I just bobby pinned back the sides a bit.  It was nice and casual.

I slept most of the afternoon after returning from class.  Brain starting to feel better.  For now I'm going to focus on meeting my needs first, and less on pleasing other people.  I think that's my first step and I need to teach less to stay out of the environment that perpetuates that response from me.

Ahhh.  Today is president's day.  Hubby has it off and we're just hanging out.  I slept until noon, which I haven't done in ages.  I really need a vacation.  I hope I can hold out until July when we go to Indonesia.

I didn't wash my hair yesterday, and now I seem to have a painful zit on the back of my head.  OUch!

Guess I'll be showering sometime today.  Maybe I'll try a new braid.

(((((((Sakina))))))))
Hang in there! It will get better  :-* :-*

Thank you, Greek_Lady.  You're absolutly right!

Today I wore a bun w/hairsticks.  My hair is getting long enough to wear my bun lower so it looks nice & a little funky with my layered ends-I like that look.  I wore a pair of my Artistix, I'm not sure if it is Lilac Explosion or Divine Morn.

It was nice and easy to have my hair out of my face, I've discovered that I have to wear my hair up in some way so I can see when I'm at my guitar lesson!

Everything is so dry-hair and skin.  I've gotten a bit lazy about my daily oil application.  Better get back on it 'cause it has a very positive effect.

Yep, winter (even in AZ) can get to you. Good luck finding something to keep your brain occupied and your body happy.
Oh, Indonesia! That sounds like something to look forward to. Why are you going there?
Meg

Hey, Meg!  This summer is my hubby's 20 high school reunion and that's why we're going to Indonesia.  Yay!!

I'm thinking I need to try a volumizing Ouidad.  I think the moisturizing has caught me up and now its time to rotate products.  Will see how much $$ that means.

Having Yoga of the Voice today and tomorrow.  More yay!!!

Wow, March 1st.  It's hard to believe I"ll be in Indonesia in 4 months.  Dang, seems like no time at all.  Guess I really will have to put my Halloween spending on hold.  I'm planning on throwing a huge party this year.  The theme is "A Deading-Our Love Will Never Die".  Hubby & I will be vampires having an exchange of vows.  Oh yes, guess I've got to get around to writing those.  I'm also working on writing a song for it.  Plans, plans.  My next step is to set up a budget.  Ooops.  Already started spending for it.  A budget is a foreign entity to me.  I'm working on it.

Hair is awaiting arrival of new Ouidad shampoo, condish & mousse for volumizing limp waves.  I've had excellent result w/the quench line for moisture, think the moisture is balanced and now I'm a bit flat.  In the interim I'm using Avalon Organics Glistening shampoo & condish.  Nice change of pace.

I'm enjoying a steaming bowl of steamed carrots and apple.  I've got to cut back on the fast food.  I'm stuck in a loop of same behavior, same result.  I'm tired of feeling fat.  Technically I'm not overweight, however I grew up underweight and skinny feels normal to me.  Stupid Prednisone.  I took it for 12 days in 1999 and have remained at the same clothing size ever since.  Did I mention I went up a whole size overnight the first pill I took?  Major anger issue-maybe I can forgive myself for taking it and the weight will fall away.  Hmmmm.

Have a cleaning at the new dentists in 30 minutes.  Yippee.

Wow. You're really into the Halloween party thing, huh? Good luck with that and on your trip to Indonesia.
Have fun at the dentist.
Meg

Hubby left for China yesterday, I'm a little bummed.  Luckily my parents are around so I'll have someone other than the cats to talk to.

Guitar lessons are going well.  May be working up to a song soon.

Well, my current voice teacher is moving to Missouri this coming week.  Do you think its a hint from the universe for me to stop taking lessons?  Maybe its time to start singing in public.

Many purchases have been made this month for the party.  If anyone needs links or ideas for Halloween, let me know!  I've done so much research and have many ideas.  Looks like we're planning on about 80 invites.  We normally have 50% of our invited guests show up.  That's a lot of people for a Halloween party, me thinks.

Time for lunch.  Laters!

Hubby's gone?  Now you can PARTY!  online, at least. 8)

How long is he gone for?  You will just have to keep yourself busy planning the Halloween party while he is gone.

China?.....hairsticks.... hairtoys....;D

Hope he comes home safe and sound :)

Hubby's gone for 2 weeks.  I told him not to buy me anything, I want to save it for Indonesia.  I've never looked for hairtoys there, maybe I'll find something.  He did bring me a few things from China last year, but they're quite nasty-metal teeth and NOT hairfriendly.  He did, however bring me silk pjs and a few silk dresses.  He's usually in an industrial area where the vendors are, so he really only shops when he gets a chance to visit his aunt.  He wasn't sure he'd be seeing her on this trip.

I have found super great stuff for my party.  I've overspent the budget this month-I'm blaming it on being lonely.

I'm going to be writing back story for our characters and have lyrics for one song.  Maybe I'll write more.  My guitar teacher is willing to help me write the songs.  I want them to sound "otherworldly" so I may need to use unusual chord combos or different instruments.  Who knows.  This is an experiment.  I plan on taking photos documenting the process-decorating and the actual party, of course.

Now...getting to my hairdo.  I'm strongly considering this hat

http://www.greatlookz.com/c=fEHaaytkm0HlmFOIuOoU4Ljnh/product/8VHMKBKOS

also this hat

http://www.fynehats.com/gothic_hats/gothic_top_hat_with_satin_veilin.htm

I've also considered a black veil, but Kambria wants a lot of $$.  I think I'd be more likely to get good use out of the hats.

I'm open to suggestions and ideas - hint hint.  I'm considering a low bun, or even a french twist with one long curl trailing my shoulder.  I figure my hair may be almost 4" longer by the time October gets here.  ::)  ;D

This is the dress I'm planning on, and hubby's outfit, too

http://www.nightmarefactory.com/shop.html

You'll have to scroll down to Adult Dark Venus and Velvet Vampire.  If you click on the blue sku it goes into the shopping cart.  I'm accessorising with a black Battenburg lace parasol, fingerless lace gloves and a beaded purse-all from greatlookz.  I'm very happy I found that site.  Oddly enough, they're in AZ so I have to pay sales tax  :P Oh well.

I've actually started a Halloween 2006 journal to keep track of websites and props and ideas.  I've got the general layout of props and backgrounds written out allready.  Maybe I should become a set designer for scarry movies.  Or a party planner.

YAY!  I just heard from hubby that he made it to Hong Kong OK and is now in his hotel in China.  I was beginning to worry...

I'm dreaming of an awesome party.  Literally!  Since he's gone and I have 3 less classes a week I've managed to find some amazing stuff.  Lots of D-I-Y sites.  Some of its over my head-animated props and exploding stuff.  I did get some ideas, though.  We have ficus trees spaced out in the yard, dirt and a cement pad.  I'm planning on filling the spaces with graves.

While typing this hubby & I have been skyping and he wants to call me so I'll be back later.

Graves? ;) *can perfectly well see Sakina's private little cemetery* You could wear your gorgeous Halloween costume while digging...

*runs as fast as she can*

.....and of course the digging would occur during the midnight hour...... under a full moon....... <evil grin>

*raises a cynical eyebrow* I feel I am being mocked. *shifty eyes* lol  ;)

Good to hear that your husband arrived safe & sound in Hong Kong. Tell him to get lots of pix while he's there...and hurry back!

You guys... ;D

The dirt here is like cement so there will be no actual digging of graves.  Seriously, it would require a jack hammer or to saturate the area w/water.  Too much work.
I'm thinking paper mache to make the mound and then I can cut holes in it to place body parts and skeletons.  So far I think a board frame with chicken wire attached and then apply the paper messily to give texture and then paint it.  Then add moss and straw and a nice tombstone.  Voila!  
Any other suggestions??

Hubby's expected to return on Friday the 17th.  Sigh.  It seems like a long ways off.

*raises hand* I have a suggestion...

Flowers! For on top of or beside the graves. Dry, dead flowers, of course...  :)

Your lover returns on the 17th, does he? Only 11 days... not that long in the grand scheme. But I know all too well that to a lonely girl missing her guy, 11 days can seem like 11 years!  :-/  Hang in there.

wrote on Mar 7^th, 2006 at 2:29am:

*raises hand* I have a suggestion... Flowers! For on top of or beside the graves. Dry, dead flowers, of course...  :)

Thanks, Angel Spun.  Excellent suggestion.  I wonder how early I should go 'round to the flowershops and ask for free dead flowers.  What fun.  Guess I need to start collecting newspaper for the grave mound.

Trying new Ouidad product today.  The volumizing line.  It smells good.  It comes with a mousse-I've been using gel ever since reading the Curly Girl book.  This stuff is cool.  Will see how the results are after it dries.  So far my waves look much thicker.  It is interesting.

I really like this mousse.  It held my waves without being crunchy.  I tend to get crunch from the gels.

I had an awesome lunch and visit with my 82 year old grandma today.  She's staying w/my parents in the trailer.  I hadn't seen her in 3 years and she's a bit fragile now.  She's had problems with both hips, one had surgery and they won't do the other hip because it will cause more spinal problems and possibly take away her ability to walk.

While we were together sometimes my thoughts would drift to her passing and I felt sad.  For the first time I realized that I'm not sad that she'll die, but sad for my loss.  It made me really cherish the time we spent together today.

Yesterday I washed my hair with the Avalon Organics Glistening poo & condish and then used Jessicurl Rockin' Ringlets & Confident coils.  My hair turned out soo pretty.  I took some pics, and was wearing the hair toy wishing4longhair gave me.  I hope I'll get em downloaded and posted today.  I might not 'cause "Harry Potter Goblet of Fire" came to my house yesterday and mom and I are having a Potterthon today!!!

I've bought Amy's organic cheese enchiladas and sour cream, avacados, tortilla strips, chopped onions, diced green chilies, cheddar/jack blend cheese and chunky salsa.  Wheeeeeeeeeeee!  I'm as excited about the food as the movies!!!  I'm picking her up at noon and away we go.  I also bought a bouquet of flowers 'cause company's coming!!!!!

I'm off to do the litter boxes and then shower.  I love McDonald's breakfast so I'm going to get some of that before I go to the cool bakery shop for their amazing oatmeal raisin cookies.  Gotta have something sweet to go w/our Mexican Feast!!!!!

Laters!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We finally got rain!  After more than 4 months without, it rained at least 24 hours straight and there was even snow in the higher elevations.  Man, it sure was nice.

Hair is being hair, I may do a deep treat and a bath.  However, I'm missing hubby badly today.  He usually goes to class with me on Sundays and I really miss him.

I got some stuff from goreydetails.com-one thing was broken.  Bummer!!!  I've got a lot of stuff coming this month.  Some of it was out of stock so I'm glad I'm starting so early.

I'm really grateful for the kitties, they're great company.

Well, its dinner time.  Gotta figure that out...

I was thinking of you when I heard it was raining in your area!  Sounds like it was quite the gully-washer!  Will the desert bloom now?

Hey, BB!  There was a lot of water on the roads.  Luckily I didn't run into any of the washes-they're VERY dangerous and they can "pop up" anywhere.
I'm not sure if the dessert will bloom, I think the weather is too cool right now.
I was concerned, there was a lot of standing water in the back yard.  The trees sure got a good soak, so I hope the lemon tree will fruit this year.  It currently has some blossoms on it.

Tonight I took a bath, did a facial and tried Ouidad's deep treatment.  Hair seems quite wavy, I put a ton of mousse in it since I'm not supposed to wash my hair for 2 days to let it fully penetrate.

oooooh!  You have a lemon tree?!!  My mother has an orange tree and her sister has a lemon and grapefruit tree.  I always love to visit when there is fruit on the trees - and then over-endulge!  I like to use the fresh lemon juice as a rinse on my hair - instead of vinegar.  When the fruit is plentiful it is a great way to use it up.

I hope your tree bears much fruit for you!

wrote on Mar 12^th, 2006 at 11:03pm:

I got some stuff from goreydetails.com-one thing was broken.  Bummer!!!  I've got a lot of stuff coming this month.  Some of it was out of stock so I'm glad I'm starting so early.

Ooh!  What'd ya get?  What'd ya get?   ;D

I"m sorry that you're missing your hubby; give the kitties an extra hard squeeze and he'll be back to you soon.   :)

Hey there, 13bodies!  The broken item is the Celtic Tribal Skull Ashtray.  I was going to use it to hold mints on the tables of my party.  I'm not sure its deep enough, so I may just use it to hold salt at the party on the main food table.  The "lid" was in several pieces.  :P
I also got the black cat drink stirrs and glass hangers.  I've been trying very hard to find some super cool gifts for my guests.  Since I'm estimating attendance of about 40 people, that's a lot of gifts.  These cuties aren't too expensive and totally have the right theme.  Adorable!
Last, but certainly not least are the skull coasters.  Now I want 2.  The color & detail are perfect.  I thought I'd use these for the indoor part of the party.  Fantastic!!

Today (and yesterday) I have the stomach flu.  Blech!  I can barely keep water in my system.  I have one class covered (thank goodness) but am scheduled to sub today and I've got to get that covered, too.  Double Bleck!!  One of the downsides of being an instructor at a gym is I have to get my own subs.  I always feel bad having to call "last minute" but I don't think I'll fake it through today.  I probably won't be leaving the house today!

On an odd note, my hair is long enough now that I have to hold it back to puke.  :-X

Quote:

On an odd note, my hair is long enough now that I have to hold it back to puke.

*snort*
I'm so sorry you're sick.  But this sentence cracked me up -- only another longhair could appreciate this sentiment!!!   ;D

I hope you feel better soon.  I can totally relate....when I was an aerobics instuctor years ago I HAD to teach with a migraine,OMG talk about wanting to throw yourself out the window with the music blaring and having to jumpt up and down..........then when I became a yoga teacher I found that "child's pose" works wonders for stomach ickies and headaches....try it and let me know,please if it helps.  Do child's pose at the kitchen table seated,it will be better.... :)

Owie. Stomach flu is no fun.  :(

Congrats on having hair long enought to get in the way and I hope you feel better soon.  :P
Only 3 more days left alone!
Meg

Skulls!  Cool.  Shame the Celtic one was broken, though.   :P


wrote on Mar 14^th, 2006 at 12:00pm:

On an odd note, my hair is long enough now that I have to hold it back to puke.  :-X

Is this a new length?  Maybe between shoulder length and BSL--"puke length."

I hope you're feeling better soon.  Stomach flu is the ultimate pits.

I haven't measured my hair since I started trimming it every 10 weeks.  I looks and feels like there's been a growth spurt.


Hubby's home!!!  Yay!

Time for blueberry danish & tea breakfast, be back later!!

Glad hubby made it home to you.  Enjoy your danish and tea.  :D

Although I have not taken a formal measurement, I think I'm about 3 inches away from BSL.  I have to stretch out my waves so I imagine I won't look BSL for maybe about 4".

Today is grey and cool, 60 something degrees.  I'm all layered up with sock on in the house.  We might get more rain...I'm looking forward to warmer weather.

Happy First Day of Spring, everyone!!!

Sheesh!  Its time for another cleanse.  Spring is an awesome time to cleanse out any winter weight and sluggishness.

Went shopping today w/mom, grandma and Miriam (a lady from my parent's trailer park) at the discount factory shops.  It is the first time I've been there, some good bargins.  I'm trying to keep on track (well, get back on track) for minimal spending until Singapore/Indonesia trip this July.  I got a few things to take on the trip, actually.

Today I wore my hair in a bun w/my cinnabar original sticks.  I've got so many I can't always get the name of them.  I also wore my Felix the Cat t-shirt.  I have a little felix collection-several cookie jars and some tin signs.

I've been noticing some splits lately, I don't have a trim until April 20th!  I have not been braiding at night, so when I took my bun down to take a nap (after eating waaay too much at Ihop for lunch) I decided to braid pigtails and it was comfy and not a single tangle.  Guess I'm back to braiding pigtails at night.

Well, I'be been keeping my hair in piggy braids for the last few days.  I'm going to wash today and let it air dry down, the braids really work well for sleeping, especially now that they're a bit longer.

Mom, dad & grandma left yesterday to drive to grandma's house.  It sure can be exhausting to have company.  Grandma's loosing her cognitive abilities, so you have to tell her what to do.  It gets pretty annoying, especially since she makes excuses for her behaviour.  I hope it will not be a fight to get her into a care facility when the time comes.  Poor dad.

I'm working on organizing.  I have Julie Morgenstern's organizing book and hubby and I are going to take it slow and over the course of a year we'll have the entire house organized.  Yippee!!!

((((Sakina))))

I"m sorry to hear about your grandmother.  We went through the same problem with mine--she was very good about pretending that there was nothing wrong with her.   :-/   It's a difficult thing to deal with.   :-[

Thanks, 13bodies.  It is difficult.

I'm so far behind in posting some pics so I'll put them in today.

First is my birthday hairsticks-January 2006, garnet of course!
January's Fire SpiralStix
http://tinypic.com/sl2nip.jpg

Next is my February gift from Wishing4longhair (Meg)
http://tinypic.com/sl2mhx.jpg

And finally, a decent Dutch braid.  This was the first try!
http://i2.tinypic.com/sl2pn9.jpg

Sorry for the poor quality of the last two, I took them myself.  :P

Monday I did Ouidad's deep conditioner and a facial.  I plan on doing this every 2 weeks.  Very nice.  
Thanks to BB, I used your recommendation of dampening one hand to do the braids-in the AM I did a French braid and the PM the Dutch braid.  I get terrible results when I try to braid wet, so I'm very happy to have this dry alternative.  YAY!
I'm very bored today.  Its my own fault for isolating myself from others.  Anywho, I think its time to get dressed.
Laters!

The stix and your hair,very nice! :)  If I wasn't feelin like all thumbs I'd love to try a french or dutch braid myself.  My buns are coming out looking like spiraled buns,maybe because  there's just so much hair or I haven't perfected it yet.....Either way practice makes perfect! ;D

Sakina - you must get bored more often - I love your pictures!  

Glad the wet hand idea worked out for you.  ;D

Wow.  :D You did very good at your first attempt at a Dutch braid. My tries are never that nice.
I'm glad the present I gave you looks so nice in your hair. Thanks for the pics.
Meg

As always, your styles and hairtoys look lovely! :D

Thanks, Curlgirl64, Bikerbraid, wishing4longhair and Galadriel!

We now have to insert the photo card into the printer to download the pics-I had to get hubby to show me how.

Speaking of hubby, it looks like we may be moving to Indonesia shortly.  More like as soon as we can get there.  His folks need some help and he's the oldest son.  Here's my chance to become fluent in Indonesian.  I just wish it was under happier circumstances.  Guess its a good thing I had cut back on my classes.  We'll be going sooner than planned to do paperwork and stuff-we want to find our own place to live that is close to his parents house.  His sister has been helping out, but she has her work and family in Singapore.

So, I won't be around too much for awhile...hope my hiar grows faster in the tropical climate!

Sakina, I don't know why but when you had first "talked" in here about Indonesia and how you were learning the language and your husband being from there etc, I don't know how or why but I had this "feeling" you were going there!  :o :o
Well, with your colourings you will be the talk of the town there and guys will fight to do your bidding!  ;D ;D
Such a new adventure!  :D
Is Indonesia predominantly muslim in religion? I think so, but I'm not sure.

Wow! Having the chance to "live" and absorb  the influence of another culture!! I'd love that so much! It broadens the mind, gives you another perspective in life. Helps you transcede your boundaries and be a different and more tolerant being. WOW! :D  :D

I'll miss you though  :-/

Greek_Lady, you're so sweet!  You are correct that Indonesia is predominately Muslim, then Hindu (mostly the island of Bali) and then Christian-Catholic I think.

I'm combining Curly Girl's techniques (as best as I can remember-once again I lent out a book and can't remember who I lent it to-guess I need a new copy) and Ouidad's products with nice results.  I'm letting the water run through my hair instead of moving my hair with my hands during rinsing.  This makes the hair below my ears spiral wave.  I'm still struggling with my top layer.  It just doesn't have a stong wave.  I haven't been working with the plopping.  I really have to wash my hair on days I don't have to go anywhere to do it, it takes forever for my hair to dry that way.
I bought some foam rollers to try out.  Don't know when I'll get around to that!

Yesterday I was able to make a bun on my crown.  I've never gotten a nice bun up that high before.  It was so light weight!

We got a gazebo for our backyard-it even came with a mosquito net.  Its so pretty!!!  I can't wait to get some outdoor furniture to have breakfast outside on the weekend and cocktails w/friends.  Fun!!!

I've been buying cut flowers every week since my parents were here.  It had been so long since we'd entertained any company that I forgot how much I like to have fresh flowers in the house.  Unfortunately I suck at rearranging them after I cut the stems.  :P  This week's bouquet came from Trader Joe's grocery store-very pretty flowers and a good price.  I bought extra stargazer lillies to add to it.  I can't wait to see 'em bloom and smell the sweet fragrance.  Ahhhhhh.

Its super overcast at the moment-I have the breeze coming in the open window.  I hope it rains!

It's raining here and super windy. *image of long haired girl trying to stand upright in the wind while her hair blows around her* (I've tried this in real life and it's not as romantic as it seems in the movies because of the scary tangles that ensue)  :D Maybe we can send some of our weather your way.
Meg

Meg- I think we got rain the day after your sending over the rain.  Thanks!!!

I am very proud of myself today.  I got up early and went to a water aerobics class.  It was 90 minutes, and a lot of fun.  I was the youngest participant and the older ladies were fun and sometimes a bit silly.  I hope I'm not too sore tomorrow, and I plan on going regularly.

I was not sure what to do with my hair, so I put it up in 2 high piggy buns.  Worked great and with no elastics.  Wheeee!

Today marks a milestone-I made my first braided bun.  I made a pony tail at the crown, english braided it and formed it into a bun.  The end doesn't quite tuck under and I had to pin the crap out of it, but it was light weight and comfortable.  As I continue to gain length it will get better!

Today was so beautiful-85 degrees, warm and sunny.  We anchored the gazebo and put up the mosquito netting.  It looks so cool.  C0cktails outside, anyone?  I make a mean blue margarita or perhaps a lemon drop martini?

I love living in Arizona.

Tomorrow is another water aerobics class.   ;D  It feels so good to be in the water, we don't have a pool at home (most people have pools in their backyards here) and I didn't realize how much I was missing water energy.

Congrats for the braided bun!  :D It's always fun to get a new styling option.

Yeah! I love braided buns. Congrats.

I love AZ and its water sports. The older people who live out there find it works wonders because it's not hard on their joints. I've gone swimming on one end of a pool where a class was going on at the other end. They must be fun to do, since they are so much fun to watch.  :D
Meg

Well I didn't make it to Monday's aqua class.  I decided to walk instead.  I took yesterday off completely 'cause I had a headache.  I did teach yoga, however so I got some movement in before the headache kicked in.
Today I've had a lovely facial and eyebrow wax.  Next on the agenda is to scritch, apply warm brahmi oil to scalp for 30 mins, wash and deep condition under the bonnet.  I've been having very good results with deep treating every 2 weeks.  I usually put the brahmi oil on at night before I wash, I thought I'd spare my facialist the mess.  She does a nice little scalp massage during the facial.  I wish it was longer, it is so relaxing to me!!!  It reminded me of the last time I was in Indonesia, we all got our hair done (washed & styled) before getting family pictures taken.  They do a MAJOR scalp massage-almost too stimulating.  I don't know if they're planning on us doing another one this year.  I hated how they styled my hair last time-I may just ask for a braid if we do it again!
I think I'll try plopping again after the deep treatment.  I don't have to go anywhere else today.  Better be sure I have lunch here at the house first-I wouldn't want to have to go out with my duckbill clips in!!!  OK, so I'm vain!  :P

It took me a while to get around to my hair - I went to Magellan's website.  They have great stuff for travelling.  I have a huge wish list now...
So, I didn't have time to plop again, but I did clip the roots on top with great results.  I included a vinegar/lemon juice rinse before the deep treat and it really made a difference.  After my hair dried I had major volume and more waves than usual.  Very cool!!!

I hope I can get up tomorrow and make it to aqua class.  I have a headache again.  Its probably weather or hormones.

wrote on Apr 12^th, 2006 at 5:45pm:

I think I'll try plopping again after the deep treatment.  I don't have to go anywhere else today.  Better be sure I have lunch here at the house first-I wouldn't want to have to go out with my duckbill clips in!!!  OK, so I'm vain!  :P

You're not vain; you're simply sensitive to the aesthetic prejudices of others.   8)

You're right, 13bodies.  I am too sensitive to the opinions of others.  I hope to get rid of that habit.  It does not serve me.

Today I've been very happy-I tried my new Ouidad Clear & Gentle Shampoo, Balancing Conditioner and Tress FX styling gel and my waves look super.  Soft and defined and spiraling!!!  Yippeeeeeee.  Ouidad's products are really working for me.  

I'm getting so excited about my trip.

More happiness-I got my order from Solumbra.  I got some driving gloves.  They block out most of the sun's rays, which of course is a big problem in AZ and my hands are aging faster than the rest of me.  I tried them out today and really like them.  I got a sunblocking scarf to cover my legs when I'm wearing shorts while driving and a black wide brimmed hat that protects my face and neck when I go hiking and for my Indonesia trip.

I got a filling replaced today, I'm still numb.  I recently changed dentists and I really like this new one better!!  YAY.

I'm inspired by something Galadriel said-about a Flamenco bun.  I'm going to try it with a half up do, dividing the hair above the ears in two and making the two buns leaving the rest down.  Don't know how it will look...

wrote on Apr 17^th, 2006 at 7:26pm:

I'm inspired by something Galadriel said-about a Flamenco bun.  I'm going to try it with a half up do, dividing the hair above the ears in two and making the two buns leaving the rest down.  Don't know how it will look...

Be sure to share pictures!!  :D

Hiking in Indonesia...how romantic! Oh, but don't forget your sunscreen...or your camera!  ;)

I also wear gloves while driving - we have the same problem here in SoCal. I was still in my teens when I noticed that the tops of my hands were getting sun spots from driving.
   My mother has them all over her own hands, and she has been treated several times for skin cancer. Needless to say, I made a decision at a pretty early age to protect my pallid self from such a fate.

Your Flamenco bun idea sounds cute! Be sure to take a few pix & post them.  :)

Hi, AngleSpun.  I've only been living in Arizona for 5 years (or so) and so my spots have come on more recently.
I got checked by a dermatologist in January 'cause I've had several severe sunburns in my youth.  Luckily everything is AOK.
It seems like I'm the only person I know who is vigilant about sun protection, but I'm probably the fairest one of all, too.  (heehee  8) )
I'm not too swift on downloading pics, I did take some of the mini flamenco buns and another new hairstyle I created.
Maybe today I can ask hubby to download 'em.
I got a trim on Thursday.  Since I've started using Ouidad's products regularly my waves are more pornounced which means that although she took between 1/4 - 1/2 inch off my hair when dry looks more like an inch to 1 1/2" is missing.  My hairdresser commented on how much more moist my hair felt, so I'm sticking to Ouidad.  For now.
I'm expecting some spurts of growth as the hot weater comes in, yippeeeee.
I'm getting more and more excited about the Indonesia trip.  We're trying to find a place to snorkel.  We can stay on a tiny island in a bungalow for a couple of days/nights.  I've never snorkeled before.
I'm hoping to find some interesting hairtoys-I wasn't looking for them last time so I have no idea.  I'm guessing combs will be most available, but maybe some sticks, too.

What a nice compliment from your hairdresser. That's good that your hair is getting softer.
Have fun snorkling. My mother has always said she cannot because it's hard to convince her brain that she can breath even though her face is underwater.  :D It's fun though and you can see a lot underwater.
Meg

Thanks, Meg.  ;)

Allergies are really bad for everyone out here, and I'm on the verge of sneezing my head off.  Well, that's one way of getting out of your head!

I'm waiting for my new Ouidad order to arrive so I can do my bi-weekly deep treatment.  

I'm having fun trying out my Aromaleigh samples.  Wish I had a girlfriend to help me with feedback.  Darling hubby just isn't up to the task.  Cats aren't much help, they think it tastes good.

Tomorrow night we're having company for dinner- a total of 7.  We're serving Indonesian food.  YUMMMMMYYYYY.  I'm looking forward to eating and playing Tribond game.  I love games that are challenging.  In tribond there are 3 items and you have to figure out how they're connected.  For example: a pair of false teeth, a helicopter and a lumberjack.  What do they have in common?
I'm making lemon drop martinis.  Today when I was at the fruit stand I got lemon drop candies to put in the bottom of the glasses.  Too cute!!!!  I love those little details.  Hubby has no clue for them.

Gotta go find a recipe for Caesar Salad Dressing.  If anyone has a favorite, I'd love to receive it!

OK, I'm usually pretty good at lateral thinking puzzles, but you got me.  What is the connection between those three?

wrote on Apr 27^th, 2006 at 9:01pm:

I'm having fun trying out my Aromaleigh samples.  Wish I had a girlfriend to help me with feedback.  Darling hubby just isn't up to the task.  Cats aren't much help, they think it tastes good.

Gorey doesn't like the taste of my Aromaleigh, but he seems to like the feel of it between his toes.  He keeps stepping in my makeup.  I find powdery little pawprints in the oddest places.   8)

I'm with BB; I'm usually decent at those sorts of puzzles, but what is the connection?    ???

They're all choppers.

wrote on May 2^nd, 2006 at 11:02pm:

They're all choppers.

:P :P :P :P

Good one!

Choppers!  Of course!

I feel stupid, now.   ::)

Oh, 13bodies, don't feel stupid!!!  It takes a few tries to get the gist of what kind of answers they want.  I wish I could have you over and we could play it.  And I could expriment with new drink recipes  ;D

Hair is changing-I am having real trouble wearing a scrunchie pony tail.  Even the favric elastics are uncomfortable.  Clips seem to be working best right now.  I'm not even at BSL yet!  Eeeek!!

On the last episode of America's Next Top Model the contestants had to dress in traditional Thai dance costume.  I was totally drooling over the hair accessories and headgear.  I hope I can find some of that kind of stuff in Indonesia.

Tonight I'm subbing a bellydancing class.  I haven't danced in a while so I'm trying not to stress about it.  I always want my classes to be super good-that stresses me out.  It's only one hour and there is a possibility that no one will show up.  Class attendance always dwindles this time of year-school schedules changing for summer.

Well... no one showed up for the bellydancing class.  I was a little disappointed, I had spent a fair amount of time planning it out!  Luckily I was dressed to go out to dinner afterwards (just in case no one came) and hubby and I had a nice dinner out.  We tried to go to the Spanish restaurant-I've been wanting to try it, but the kitchen got backed up and so they wouldn't seat us.  We had already waited 20 minutes when they tell us this.  So we go down the way to a sports bar/restaurant.  We had fun just the same.  I wanted a margarita on cinco de mayo but it didn't happen.

I'm really enjoying playing with my new aromaleigh samples.  I think I'll look fabulous in Indonesia!!!  I've got my sun protection outfit ordered and travelling supplies, too.  We also have our tickets.  Yippeee.

Hair was shedding today-temps have been higher than 90 degrees for almost a week.  I don't know what to think about not being able to wear scrunchies in a high or middle pony w/o discomfort.  My hair is just not that long yet, its only about 20 1/4" long.

Quote:

Posted by: Sakina Posted on: May 6th, 2006, 4:30pm Well... no one showed up for the bellydancing class.

Awww!!!   I would've come!!!   ;D

me too!!! ;D

I hate it when I go thru all the hassle of organizing for a class and no one shows up.  Maybe we can start something new - a bellydancing knitting class! (and sports TV for the significant others!)   ;D

Come teach me Ariel!!!
I promise I'll be showing up every time!

Hee, hee. Me too. I've always wanted to try.  :D
Meg

I'd love to learn to belly dance, but not having any lower back flexibility I'm afraid of what a clutz I'd look like!  (or I'd hurt myself  :o)   ;D

You guys are soooo sweet.  Thanks.  It would be really fun to teach you bellydancing.

BB, we all dance to our strengths, so you've got veil work involving the arms, and to shimmy you just shake everything you've got!!!  Eye movement and facial expression are important, too!  ;D

wrote on May 11^th, 2006 at 5:09am:

BB, we all dance to our strengths, so you've got veil work involving the arms, and to shimmy you just shake everything you've got!!!  Eye movement and facial expression are important, too!  ;D

  :o   http://users.telenet.be/eforum/emoticons4u/party/bellyemoticon.gif

This is about all I have to shimmy or shake!  ;D

I haven't been writing in my journal lately 'cause I'm too boring.

I think hair's had a growth spurt-maybe that's the only good thing about triple digit temps.

Work is work.  I really like my new bellydancing teacher.  It is hard for me to stay focused on saving money for the upcoming Indonesia trip.

I've suspended giutar lessons to help save money.

Today I'm getting a facial and pedicure.  Looking forward to that.

Created a cool new style this week-haven't gotten around to downloading the pics yet.

Planning on seeing DaVinci Code Monday with hubby.

Sweetie peed on the couch & me last week.  Put her in her room, seems to have improved all of the cats attitudes.  I think she likes being by herself where she doesn't have to worry about Ziggy.  She got to the point of paranoia.  Growling and hissing at shadows.  I hope this is the right solution.

Still walking nearly every night.  Loosing inches, not sure about pounds.  Oh yeah, haven't had any soda for 3 whole days.  Its a good thing.

wrote on May 26^th, 2006 at 6:53pm:

Sweetie peed on the couch & me last week.  Put her in her room, seems to have improved all of the cats attitudes.  I think she likes being by herself where she doesn't have to worry about Ziggy.  She got to the point of paranoia.  Growling and hissing at shadows.  I hope this is the right solution. Still walking nearly every night.  Loosing inches, not sure about pounds.  Oh yeah, haven't had any soda for 3 whole days.  Its a good thing.

Cats peeing all over everything isn't boring.   ;)

If you're losing inches you're losing fat and gaining muscle, which is a good.   ;D

Thanks for your support, 13bodies.  So far Sweetie's very happy by herself in her room.  Ziggy's personality is blossoming with her in there, she growled and hissed everytime she saw him so I bet his self-esteem is improving!

I'll measure my hip to waist ratio on the 10th, I hope I've lost more inches.  I haven't yet really changed my diet other than giving up soda.  My metabolism has not worked right since I took Prednisone in '99 for Bell's Palsy, so I may have a tougher time loosing weight than in the past.  Boo hiss.

Had a major breakthrough in my therapy today.  Its a very good thing.

Hair is awesome.  I now have to do a top knot bun instead of a pony tail otherwise it pulls too much.  My piggy braids are looking better and better.  My waves are more developed the longer my hair gets.  I estimate I'm about 2 1/2 inches away from BSL now, that's when I pull my wave straight.  

Congrats on your hair and waist improvement.  It feels nice to see the changes. :D
Meg

Ugh, Sakina....I totally feel your pain! I was on a medication that messed me all up, too. That was 3 years ago...and I'm still compensating for it!  :P

My aunt takes Prednisone for her Still's Disease it it messed her up as well. In very much the same way as my old meds did with me. Only on a much greater level.
   We used to stay up late at night talking about all of the horrible ways that our respective meds had affected us. And even though she isn't taking that much anymore and I completely switched medications, the weight is still on both of us, though not as much as it used to be.

Just hang in there, girl. Slowly but surely, we will ALL kick this thing to the curb! Dedication is the key. Stay in there for the long haul & you will come out on top. Don't get hung up on numbers, just keep your eyes on the prize.  :)

Thanks Angel Spun.  I'm not gonna give up, I am going to look into changing my birthcontrol pills and see if that helps!

Today I've done a lot of shopping online for my upcoming trip.  It made me a bit sad, owning up to the fact that I'm not a size 4 anymore and have to use my measurements to purchase larger sizes.  I want to be comfortable so I bought some larges.   :-/  I know that my size does not define me, I'm just missing my buff bod.  :P

Beyond that...(doing happy happy dance) I got the Dancing Iris Swingstix!!!  Yippeeeeeee.

Oh yeah, change in big Halloween party plans.  I'm going to scale back to a not so big party this year so I can save up for a live band next year.  So, new theme this year.  I think I'll use the gobs of decorations I've already purchased this year, continuing to add to it so next year everything will be just the way I want it.  This year I'm finally going to wear my Sexy Geisha outfit.  Haven't decided if I'll mingle it with the cat as I planned last year.  *giggles into hand*

Oh how I understand about not being the size you once were (however, I don't remember EVER being a size 4).  Learning to accept yourself is tough but an important lesson.

Your Halloween parties must be THE social event of the season!  Good luck with your plans.

Thanks, BB.  I'm a size 8 now, but that's a big difference from a 4.  My sister and I were really skinny kids.  I feel like I'm in the wrong body sometimes, and for many years I couldn't physically do much about it.  I'm very happy today to be able to say that I can be as active as I want and just have to be patient.  I'm not hung up on being a size 4 again, I want to be fit and healthy.  So maybe a size 6?  Whatever.  ;)

I'm hoping my party will be a big hit, large or small.  I get really caught up in the planning and boy, let me tell you do I have VISION.  Sometimes my vision starts to take over and I feel very let down if I can't do it they way I want to.  That's why I'm post-poning the big bash until next year.  I think it will allow me to enjoy my Indonesian trip more-I won't be worrying about not getting something there that I want so I'd have more to spend on Halloween.  It will be only 3 months away when we get back.

Hubby will have his laptop with us so I think I'll be able to keep up with the boards.  We leave June 30 and return July22.  There will be about 2 days of travel time getting there and the same coming back that I won't be available.
I know everyone will be nice to BB during that time, right?!

I've been writing out all the stuff I want to bring.  I haven't gone through my sticks yet to find the ones I'll be bringing along.  Decisions, decisions!

Ooooo, your trip is getting soooo close!  Have you started "packing" yet?  My mother always had her suitcases out for about a month before a trip and would start putting things in the bags so she would not forget anything.  It was her way of organizing and thinking thru what she would be taking.

You will get back just before I leave on my trip!  What timing.  ;D

I'm gathering up the laundry for the stuff I want to take on my trip.  Then it will go into the suitcase.
Ugh!  Today I spent a lot of money at the health food store getting supplements for the trip.  I never go overseas without essesential oils and acidophilis (sp?) and I had to buy more body scrub and lotion.  I guess I'd rather be healthy and without digestive problems than complain, but I hated spending so much!!!  :P  :P  :P
I've ordered a new product from Ouidad, a climate control gel.  It will be humid over there so I'm hoping to have many good hair days!!
I'm sitting on my hands to not buy a bunch of new cool stuff for bellydance.  EEEEkkkkkk.  Deep breaths.  I'm OK.  Its passed.
I went to water aerobics yesterday morning, then to bellydance class at night.  After that I walked for 30 mins. with hubby and my calves are sore!  I was going to lift weights with him tonight.  I think I need longer recovery time.  Maybe I'll walk some tonight but that will be it.
Tomorrow is deep treat for hair and at home facial.  No work tomorrow.  Ahhhh.  Lemonade.  Reading.  Lounging.

Sakina,you talk about feeling like you're in the wrong body!!!  I went from a size 16 or 18 to a size 4, right now!!  Mind you it has been 20 years since I was that big size,but I have never felt like I was in the right body,only when I practice my yoga,that's a totatlly different story............you're not alone feeling the way you do.

Sakina, was your area caught in that huge duststorm? I saw clips of it on CNN Headline news and it looked rather scary.  :-/

Juri, we did have some dust come up by my house.  I think most of it was by hubby's work in north Scottsdale, about 35 minutes drive from our home.  They sure can be nasty and let me tell you you don't want to get caught in one while driving!!  Thanks for thinking of me  ;D

You're welcome! :)

Glad it wasn't serious in your area, but I hope hubby wasn't on the road when it hit. From the clips I watched, I can see what you mean about how hard it is to drive in one.  :o

Glad you were not seriously affected by the dust storm.  I can only imagine what one would be like.  I've been in blizzard white-outs where you can't see anything.  At least it isn't freezing cold in a dust storm!  ;D

Wow!  hey, I've never been in a dust storm.  I have been in a  snow storm, tornado and a an earthquake.  I'm happy everything is okay.  :)

Thanks to all of you!  Hubby wasn't driving in it, thank goodness!
Experiencing a dust storm is weird-you'll see this wall of dust hundreds of feet high and long moving in a line, the sky darkens and the winds are blowing hard.  When it envelopes your car (I don't go outside into dust storms when at home, of course  ;D) you feel completely disoriented.  You may be able to see a taillight when you're almost up on the person in front of you.  Then the debris from the road and tumbleweeds flies across your path and even into your car.
Sometimes we get microbursts which are small super-intense rain.  Strong enough to wipe out visibility and drive you to stop on the side of the road until it passes.  Adding that to the dust is bad news.  Funny thing, if its raining here nearly everyone stays home!  Really though its smart 'cause those storms are very dangerous.
Guess its a trade off for having so much nice weather and pretty constant sunshine.

The trip is getting closer and closer!!
My orders are starting to come in, today I got some vitamins and my Ouidad order.  I got my Prana order yesterday-new shorts and capri's.  I'm always very careful about how I dress when I'm out of country, often women don't wear shorts like they do here and I sure don't want to offend anyone.  It will be very hard for me to blend in anyway so the less I stick out the better.  I'm thinking about keeping my head covered with a scarf, for sun protection as well as to conceal my blond hair-but I might get mistaken for a Muslim (sp?).  I hope my wide brimmed hat will be enough!

Well, I'm getting into a nasty habbit of irregular posting!
My hair is doing great!!!  I think I'm about to cross another threshold where I can hardly do anything with it, but then it will get better.  I'm planning on lots of days of piggy braids on my trip.  And buns.
I got my geisha wig yesterday.  I think it will do nicely for $17.  I've ordered some Kanzashi which should be shipping next week.  I got the good stuff...spent about $145 incl. s&h.
I just read Angels & Demons by Dan Brown.  Great story!!!  I bought that book, the DaVinci Code and Memoirs of a Geisha for our trip.  I read really fast, hubby reads really slow so I read the first book already.  I'm going to start MoaG probably today.  Maybe in Indo I'll find some good books.  I'd like to get some children's books to practice my Indonesian reading skills.  I couldn't find any last time we were there.  

You've selected some great books for your trip - I enjoyed all of them myself....

Gee... maybe we should get a book exchange going??

I really liked MoaG.  I lost my original copy and bought another one at Goodwill for 50 cents so I could re-read it.   :D

After my first post my door bell rang and there was a box.  Inside this box is my red oiled japanese parasol and my Geta & tabi!!!!  They really do make the ge-ta sound when you walk!!!  Sooooo cool.  The tabi I was afraid would feel weird, but they're great!  Actually I could wear them here in the winter since it doesn't get too cold, but too cold for my flip flops.
Happy!!!  So I've started reading MoaG and am really enjoying it.  Such imagery.  Maybe I'll watch the movie again tonight.
Wheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!  ;D

A book exchange sounds interesting, BB.

wrote on Jun 16^th, 2006 at 10:18pm:

After my first post my door bell rang and there was a box.  Inside this box is my red oiled japanese parasol and my Geta & tabi!!!!  They really do make the ge-ta sound when you walk!!!  Sooooo cool.  The tabi I was afraid would feel weird, but they're great!  Actually I could wear them here in the winter since it doesn't get too cold, but too cold for my flip flops. Happy!!!  So I've started reading MoaG and am really enjoying it.  Such imagery.  Maybe I'll watch the movie again tonight. Wheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!  ;D A book exchange sounds interesting, BB.

Cool!  I have a few pairs of tabi socks and I love them! I even made my own by cutting regular socks and making the spilt toe then sewing them.  I have geta and zori's and love to wear them.  How high are your geta? Mine are about an inch or so high.  Japanese courtesan's (Tayu) would were really high ones like the ones Sayuri wore in MoaG for here dance.  She even does what is called the figure 8 step which is a classic Tayu step!  I am happy you enjoyed MoaG.  I loved it. I read the book years ago. Have fun!


The book exchange sounds like a great idea! ;D

wrote on Jun 16^th, 2006 at 6:43pm:

I've ordered some Kanzashi which should be shipping next week.  I got the good stuff...spent about $145 incl. s&h.

Sakina, I have been toying with the idea of getting some Kanzashi myself, lately. Wow!
What site did you order from? When your goods arrive pls update us on quality, service etc.
Oh and size! what the real size feels like in one's head! Although I have this feeling that the longer kanzashi of the two-piece ones, will get tangled in my flyaway hair and might be more pita than joy.
What colours did you get?

Lisabelle, I think my geta are the same height as yours.  I have a black pair of tabi, too, that I ordered from
www.sock-dreams.com.  They have a lot of different colors and fabrics-you should check it out!
I haven't received my zori yet.  I hope they come before I leave, but they might not.

Greek_Lady, lovely to hear from you!  I ordered my kanzashi from Maya, the address is http://www1.odn.ne.jp/maya/english/enknshop.htm
I got the s-08 style, they're shorter so they shouldn't get in my mouth when I eat!  They're purple & white with gold.  I wanted the red 2 pcs. that we think of most but I'm getting a lot more pcs. in this set.  In the future I may order another pair, we'll see.

Lately I've noticed that my piggy braids are almost an inch longer on the left than the right.  I'm rather annoyed at this and am concerned that when I get my next trim on the 29th that it will continue to be out of balance.  When my hair is down, Hubby says my hair is not shorter on the right, but that the shape of my hair makes it look that way in the braids.  I guess you'd say my ends are U shaped.  Argh.

Its been humid here lately giving me the chance to try out my newest gel from Ouidad, Climate Control.  Its designed for humid and hot temps and I LOVE it.  Very happy.

That's a really pretty kanzashi, Sakina! It's funny; when I went to the mall yesterday, they had tons of kanzashi in stock and I thought of you.  :)

Ooh, I've been drooling for the kanzashi on that site for long. My problem is that I haven't been able to choose just one set. Please, post some pictures when your kanzashi arrives!  *where is that puppy-eyed emoticon when you need it...*

I promise I will post pics as soon as I get my kanzashi.  I'm anxious to see how they feel in my hair.  I will wear them in a wig for my party, I am planning to wear them in my real hair when its a bit longer and I can make a better pouf.  I think I'll be able to put the little flower pins in a bun now!

I just ordered some goth style makeup from Asylum, white base & powder and red lipstick.  I'm hedging my bets that the facepainting makeup I used on hubby last year won't give me enough coverage and it wasn't too expensive (the Asylum makeup) so I'm gonna try it.  I was looking into the actual geisha/kabuki makeup but there doesn't seem to be a site in English so I've scrapped that idea.

I've still got so much to do to get ready for the trip...

This seller on eBay sells maiko/geiko makeup--he even has the lipstick in the painted seashell.

I'm all excited about your trip; you're going to have so much fun!   :D

wrote on Jun 19^th, 2006 at 9:51pm:

This seller on eBay sells maiko/geiko makeup--he even has the lipstick in the painted seashell. I'm all excited about your trip; you're going to have so much fun!   :D

I highly recommend this store ;D.  I have purchasee many thing from them including the red lining makeup from them as well as the Nightingale face treatment. My latest is this really cute kanzashi! Thanks for the link for Sock dreams!  I hope you have a great trip!  I wish I could hide in you baggage!

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a90/Lisabunnie/IMGP3089.jpg

Thanks so much, 13bodies and Lisabelle!  I just ordered a shell lipstick.  I'll have to wait to order the whole kit, low and behold, there it was!!!  Guess hubby will have to be a Kabuki character next year...how long do you think this makeup will last without spoiling?
Lisabelle, will I need camillia oil and the nightingale cream as well?  Do I understand correctly that the cream is used to remove the kabuki makeup?

You guys are awesome!!!  Thanks again!!!

My kanzashi has shipped!!!  The email said it should be here in 7 days!!  I was concerned that it would come after I had left.
Parents are coming to watch the house and take care of the cats while we're gone, so they'll get my packages.

I'm starting to feel a little bit apprehensive about my upcoming trim.  I think I'll go to 12 week trims after the one next week.  I have a few split ends so I guess I won't cancel and wait until I get back.  I'm at that point where I really don't want to give any of my length up.  The bi-weekly deep treatments are really helping keep the splits down.  I'll have one tomorrow.

I got my zori last night, I'm pleased with the look.  I think I like the geta better.  The zori feels like I'm just wearing sandals, although the thong part is made of kimono material and is very pretty.  I think they look a tiny bit strange not having a right and a left.  I'm going to wear them to work today to show them off.

French press coffee is waiting for me...laters!

Don't you just love French Press!!!  I can't live without mine!  Happy Coffee drinking ;D

wrote on Jun 20^th, 2006 at 2:45am:

Thanks so much, 13bodies and Lisabelle!  I just ordered a shell lipstick.  I'll have to wait to order the whole kit, low and behold, there it was!!!  Guess hubby will have to be a Kabuki character next year...how long do you think this makeup will last without spoiling? Lisabelle, will I need camillia oil and the nightingale cream as well?  Do I understand correctly that the cream is used to remove the kabuki makeup? You guys are awesome!!!  Thanks again!!!

I think it will last pretty long, keep it out of the heat of course:)
No you don't need to use those thing to remove the Kabuki makeup.  There just treatments to make your skin smooth.  Ponds cold cream takes the makeup off no problem.  ;)

Thanks for the reply, Lisabelle.  Your kanzashi is really cute!
Speaking of kanzashi...my box arrived!!!!  They're so beautiful I haven't taken them out so I'll show you how wonderfully they were packaged.  I'm so funny, I kept washing my hands anytime I'd open the box lid just to take a look.  There is a plastic cover under the box lid.

http://i4.tinypic.com/15ocvnc.jpg

So, I've been experimenting with new styles 'cause my hair is at a new stage and is getting too heavy for me not to wear it up high or to divide it into sections.

I was in a playful mood, waiting for my kanzashi to arrive when I remembered I had these two chinese style ornaments that came with an aweful cheap wig I had.

From the back:
http://i5.tinypic.com/15of28p.jpg

From the front:
http://i4.tinypic.com/15ofo61.jpg

I have been trying to get this beak clip to hold a french twist style and finally, entirely on accident I think I figured it out!  I am always having trouble with it catching my "bangs", this layer nearly reaches my collar bone.  I took up the sides of my hair, without twisting them one side at a time and used a bobby pin to secure each side at the center on the back of my head.  Then I took all of the rest of my hair and twisted it.  The sides blended invisibly with the back.  I put the beak clip down the "seam" of the twist close to my scalp without opening the clip too much.  I took the wild ends that remained and gently twisted them into a tiny bun which I pinned in place.  I think I'll be wearing this one on my trip!!
http://i3.tinypic.com/15odth0.jpg

And today as I was getting ready for work I decided to experiment with starting my do at the center front instead of taking hair from each side with leaves me with a center part.  I took the hair from above the ears and put it into a loose pony secured with an elastic.  Then I twisted the hair for a bun and pushed it forward (hence the loose part) to give lift and pouf.  I pinned the bun in place, angling the bobby pins to keep the pouf in place.  I divided the hair hanging down in half from the center part, twisting one side into a bun and losely pinning and then the same on the other side.  This pic is messy 'cause I've taught a yoga class and ran errands is heavy winds.  Actually, its held up suprising well.  Its not too heavy, although I think hair decorations would change that.  I felt very pretty and feminine, especially with dangle earrings on!
http://i4.tinypic.com/15oe3ro.jpg
edited to fix pics

Ooh la la, Sakina! hehehe I especially like that last 'do. Very pretty. I may have to try it myself.  ;D

Congratulations for reaching a new stage! :)

You make lovely styles, I'm sure you'll find in no time something for everyday use.
Also, thanks for posting the kanzashi pictures- they are absolutely *thud*dingly stunning.

Thanks, Angel Spun.  I hope you'll post a pic when you try it out!

Thanks, Galadriel.  I'm really getting into more experimenting with styles.  Last night I saw the movie Frida on IFC and although I've seen it before I was mezmerized by her hairstyles.  I think attempting to braid ribbon may be my next round of experiments.

Getting closer and closer...I'm nearly all packed.  Today I moved around some appointments so I can pick up my parents from the airport on Wednesday.  I have a bit of running around to do today in hopes that if I think of anything last minute I'll still have a few days to get it.

Hoping for a thunderstorm today...its been really hot.  I hope it cools off for my folks while they're house and cat sitting for us.

Thanks Sakina!  You hair is lovley as always.  You know, I have a kimono that matches your new Kanzashi!

That's cool, Lisabelle!!

*gasp* Those kanzashi are so pretty! I can definately see why they cost so much, but they look like they're worth every penny! :o :D

Quote:

Thanks, Angel Spun.  I hope you'll post a pic when you try it out!

Egad, be glad I didn't! lol That style didn't look so hot on me.  :-/  I don't even own a digicam yet anyway.  :(

(edited to fix that bloody quote!)

Sorry it didn't turn out the way you liked, Angel Spun.

Today I picked up my parents from the airport, so kitties and home will be well cared for while we're away.
I've been so wound up that I haven't slept well at all this week!

I showed my mom the kanzashi, and she was really impressed.

Oh yeah, I got another kanzashi called Yozakura from www.chidoriyaworld.com
They're in New York they've got some cool stuff.
http://chidoriyaworld.stores.yahoo.net/hirauchi.html  Mine's black, the design is different from the photo.  It's very light weight.

Tomorrow's my trim.  I'd skip it if I didn't have some splits.

Well...I got my trim and its OK.  The stuff she used to wash and condition my hair was so smelly it was giving me a headache!
I'm pretty well decided that I'm going to go back to my previous hairdresser.  I hope I can get my appointments with her in the morning 'cause they have a really lousy parking lot.  I've also decided that I'm now going from a trim every 10 weeks to every 12.  I think most of the really damaged hair has grown out and is mostly trimmed off now.

This will be my last post for awhile. :o. 8).I really have no idea when I'll have access.  Maybe in Singapore on Sunday or Monday.  If not, it will be 3 or 4 days until I can get to an internet cafe.

So, take care of each other while I'm gone.  I look forward to catching up with everyone's posts as soon as I can.  ;D

Laters!!!

Be safe and have a good trip!   :)

Godspeed and safe landings Ariel  :D

Have a great and safe trip! ;D

Hope you have a good trip and have as much fun as possible. I wanted to send you a note. I got your package while I was away and wanted to say thanks. The cap will be fun to play with and the other products will be tried soon. Thanks!!! :D
Meg

Have a wonderful time!!!  ;D

Thanks to all of you for your well wishes-so far so good!
Right now I'm in a mall in Bandung, West Java Indonesia at a Gloria Jean's sipping bottled water.  This is the first opportunity for us to get online, I wonder if I'll ever catch up to all of your posts!
We have 7 days left in Indonesia and then we're off to Singapore for 3 days and then we're returning to USA.
I had lunch at a McDonalds here in the mall-no MSG.  Its very hard to find food here that doesn't have MSG in it...I get migraines from it.  I've had a headache off and on for 5 days already.
Sorry if my spelling is bad-looking at the boards is the first time I've read English sine I got here!  My brain's a bit scrambled.

I hope all of you are well...its hubby's turn to use the computer.  I don't know when I'll get another chance to get online so I'll talk to you later!!!

Sampai Jumpa Lagi!

Sakina I hope you're having a great time!!  

That's a bummer about the MSG - that happens to me too.  It also makes me bloated.  :P

Glad you popped in to give us an update.  Migranes while traveling are no fun.  Hope you can keep them at bay a while longer!

Have fun!

Glad to hear from you!!Hope you are having a good trip,talk to ya when you're back home! :)

Hey, I'm in Singapore and can finally download at a reasonable speed!!!

Khrome-love your new avatar!!

Luckily I stopped having the headaches after 5 days, it always takes me awhile to remember to tell the restaurant, no matter what kind of food it is, to tida pake pecin (don't use MSG) every meal.

I think everyone's well wishes has paid off big time for us, we were in Pangandaran the day of the earthquake.  Luckily we dedcided not to go to the Green Canyon that morning because we would have been in the middle of that tragedy.  Thanks, everyone,  and Goddess, too!!!

I've gotten some really great hair stuff, I'll get some pics when we get home to AZ.

I hope everyone's well.  Tomorrow morning will be the last chance I have to check the net until we get back to US on the 22, which means the 23rd with jet lag.  We have a 12 hour time difference so what ever day it is I'll be in touch!

Laters!!

Hihihi!!  Don't you just love the 'net and how we can all stay connected from so far away!  I'm so glad you guys were out of the earthquake area.  You are completely missing the heatwave here so that's kind of nice.  Can't wait to see the pics.  Did you find any cool hairtoys over there?

*anxiously awaits*

I want stories and pics when you get home!  :D

can't wait to see the pics and hear about what new hair toys ya got!!

I'm so glad you were not affected by the earthquate.  I join the others as we anxiously await your safe return home so you can share with us your new hair goodies!

Ariel! I'm so glad you are safe and not affected by the earthquake.
Hurry back home so we can enjoy your new hair-adventures  ;D

btw what's MSG???

Greek_Lady, MSG is MonoSodium Glutimate.  I think I spelled it right.  Its used in food as a flavor enhancer.  

Now that I'm relatively back to normal I'm doing a deep treatment this morning.  I went snorkeling for the first time in Pulau Umang and really loved it.  I'm looking forward to the next trip already.  However...my hair is not doing so well.  It was is awesome condition before we left and now I've got broken ends.  Never having snorkeled or done so with longish hair I just figured I'd French braid it and all would be well.  Boy was I wrong!!!  Anyway, I've scheduled a trim at the end of August (I know, only 8 weeks after my last trim) I don't want those spilts making more damage than has been already done.
I felt silly putting oil or conditioner in my hair before hitting the water, I kept imagining the stuff washing off my hair into the ocean like an oil slick.  I won't make the same mistake again!!!

My folks are still here so I haven't taken the time yet to get my treasures photographed.  They leave on Monday.

I'm going back to my previous hairdresser.  The shape of my hair seems to be getting more important as the length is coming.  My hair is so dry now after our trip (the water in Indonesia is not clean enough to drink, I think it really dried out my scalp, too) that with my regular shampoo and conditioner I'm getting huge, voluminous hair.  You should see it when I take it out of a braided bun.  Blonde Rosanne Rosannadanna!!

I think that'll be all for now.  I've got more catching up reading to do on the boards and in 10 minutes I'm starting my shower and deep treat with heat (shower cap w/deep treatment conditioner under a bonnet hairdryer for 30 mins.)

Hope everyone who reads this has a pleasant day!!

I'm very glad I did the deep treatment but my hair feels like it is still a bit dry.  I'm going to use my moisturizing shampoo and conditioner today and hope that helps.  
I think I'm coming off my vacation high, starting to feel blah about work.  I'm badly in need of some inspiration.
In Singapore I was able to get a shruti box and a harmonium and am awaiting my parents leaving for me to begin a morning chanting practice.  They're leaving tomorrow morning...
I've been getting up really early since we returned from our trip and I think it is a good thing!  Today I'd like to just go back to bed, I think that is coming from PMS...I'm always fatigued at "that time of the month".
We have a local hamburger joint that has the freshest and most delicious hamburgers, we ate there last night.  I was craving one of their burgers in Indonesia.  Mmmmmmmm.
Guess I'm off to shower and get myself to air drying my hair before I go to work.  This is my first Sunday back working in 4 weeks, I wonder if anyone will show up...

Halloween is coming...yippee!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Quote:

Halloween is coming...yippee!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

You don't have to tell me twice!  ;)  ;D

Glad to see you made it back safely.  Go have one of those burgers.....yummy!

I'm on such a high right now...Halloween products are in the stores now!  I've just returned from a very successful trip to Michael's craft store and a discount card store.
They're really just getting stuff in and the selection is great!!!  Be sure to look in the floral section where they have fake birds-they've got 2 sizes of ravens!!!  And a black leaf garland!!!  Yippeeeee!!!!!  I learned that for $15.99 I can rent a small tank of helium and do my own balloons from the card store.  Awesome!!!!!

My hair is recovering nicely, still using the Quench products to rebuild the moisture level I lost from snorkeling.  I've placed another order and am trying out the beach spray (for when I go to the pool at the gym) and a pommade.  Normally I'd stay away from that kind of stying product, but since its Ouidad I'm giving it a try.  Sometimes those baby hairs really need taming!

Well, I'm starving now from so much excitement!  Gonna go have some lunch.

I think you are really going to like using most of Ouidad's products.  I thought about a few of them,but $$ are limited so I'll stick with the shampoo bars and one of her products that control the frizz. :P  
I think Michael's is calling me to come and see what they've got,too! ;D

Welcome back, Sakina! ;D  

Whee!  Halloween rules!

Welcome back!  Can't wait to see the pics.  

Have you decided what you'll do with your hair as far as shape goes?  Are you still thinking of long layers?

Thanks, 13bodies and Khrome.  Its always good to be home.

As far as my shape, I think I'm going to always have layers because of my wavy texture.  I don't have many layers and I think that's working for me at the moment.  My hair is about 20 3/4" long, so it still tends to poof.  Maybe as it gets longer the weight of the length will eliminate the need for layers, although I think layers show off my waves more.

Well, I've done it.  I've ordered the whole Geisha/Meiko makeup kit.  Thanks again for the link, 13bodies.

Today I didn't know what to do with my hair.  I woke up with a headache at 2:30AM so I figured I didn't want anything that would make my head hurt or be too complicated.  I decided to french braid my pig tails and then curled the ends into buns.  I accidentally did something I think is really cool.  On the first braid, I took the first strand and put it under the 2nd but put the 3rd over and then continued weaving the strands over.  This made for a very flat beginning to my braid.  I think it looked great.  I did take a picture of myself in the mirror, I'll add it later.

I watched Practial Magik today.  I'm so enjoying getting ready for Halloween.  Watching my Halloween movies really helps, too.  I love stories about magick and witches.

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I watched Practial Magik today

That's one of my favourite movies!   ;D

I have never seen that - I'll have to check it out.

Have you seen Mirrormask?  I think you might like it.  It's by Neil Gaiman who wrote The Sandman - a graphic novel that won a lot of literary awards.  He still does graphic novels as well as adult and children fantasy books.  They are usually dark.

Here's a link to the trailer.  I think 13bodies might like this too

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GA1iawlsKLg

Thanks for the link, Khrome.  I ordered a copy!

I has become plain to me that I feel as though I'm never good enough.  So I start lots of things and when I do well once (which is often on the first try for me) I'm afraid I'll be expected to repeat my success and so I just stop.  Dead.  Then I go into a depression about not doing what makes me happy and feeling like my life has no purpose until another idea comes along-something new for me to try.  This is a very painful way to live, and it it not working for me.  I must get over this fear of having to be perfect.

Hair is still getting better.  Keeping the moisturizing shampoo, conditioner and gel going.  May do deep treatment next Wednesday.

Still need to get around to taking pics of my new hairtoys.

*hugs Sakina*  I have a near paralyzing fear of failure so I don't do anything so I won't fail...different neuroses with the same result.   :P  I don't have any answers, just sympathy.  

On a brighter note:

Watch your mail.....

mwa ha ha!

wrote on Aug 11^th, 2006 at 6:58pm:

On a brighter note: Watch your mail..... mwa ha ha!

I'm squealing with delight, 13bodies!!!  I'm watching my mail!!

The paralyzing fear thing is the next topic I'll be addressing in my therapy.  I just don't want to live in this much pain anymore.  I hope you find your way to freedom, too.

I think my hair has recovered from the snorkeling trama.  It is once again soft and the waves are more defined.  Yay!!
I'm hoping to get a new shape to my hair on my upcoming trim.  I'm going to go in and tell her I have a 1 year plan-to keep my hair healthy and looking good while growing as much as possible.  I want to have an awesome hairdo for next years Halloween party which will be the Dead Wedding.
This year I'm wearing a Geisha wig, so it may be a good thing that it isn't super long 'cause of the thickness.
Hubby is slowly getting onboard to help me with ideas and decorations.
I bought some blood red roses to use in my entry way arch that aren't going to work so I'm turning them into hairpins.  I just got the glue today so they're not finished, but I think they'll be cool.  Maybe a Saucy Senora will be a costume in my future...and we can have Mexican food or Tapas at the party.  Let's see...that puts me at 4 years from now.  This year is the Black Cat Affair, next year the Deading, year after that Hijinx on the High Seas (yay pirates!) and then the Fiesta.
What else is there?  I'm working at getting back on track for my excercise and am going to eat 2 vegetables (raw, steamed or grilled) at every meal.  Starting tomorrow afternoon when I go to the store.  I was able to eat more veggies than that for dinner tonight, now the veggies are all gone.
I've got some excercising to do, until then Happy Longhair Dreams to All!

Wow!  You have some cool Halloween parties! This year I'm taking my neice trick or treating but I don't know what to be.  I wanted to go as Samara form The Ring but my nieces mother said no scary outfits (darn).  Mind you, when I get back from TOT I'm oiling my hair putting on a nasty white night gown making my face and arms white and spooking the nieghborhood! 8)

Lisabelle-I think your scary costume sounds great!!  What are you going to use to make yourself white?
I bought the Geisha makeup kit from Hannari-do you know how to apply it?
It tickles me pink to scare people, always has.  Actually I'm smiling while I even think about it.  hee hee

Gotta go sub a class...wish I could go back to bed instead!

Sakina,
Do you have any pictures of your past parties and your costumes?  They sound fantastic.  I am always envious of creative minds who can do cool theme parties and costumes.  I have NO creativeness in this area at all.  :P

"Lisabelle-I think your scary costume sounds great!!  What are you going to use to make yourself white?
I bought the Geisha makeup kit from Hannari-do you know how to apply it?"

Hmmm I have never does this before with the real stuff.  Hannari-ya did not give you instructions? That wierd!  On the ebay sight they have some instructions.  Wish I could help.  Your good at makeup so I think if you play around with it you'll be okay.  I do know for maiko that after they put on the blush they put another coat of white over it to soften the color.
Bon chance!

I haven't tried my makeup yet, I'm waiting until I get through Labor Day's facepainting.  I've been working on 18 designs, which I'm cutting back to about 14.  It is very strange painting on the practice head-it is plastic and a bit slippery.

I did a deep treat yesterday and my hair is juicy.  Like its full of moisture.  I'm still getting a trim on the 31st, 1/4" is my plan.  I think I'll discuss changing the shape of my hair, more layers my need to be added.  

I'm starting guitar lessons up again in a couple of weeks.  Am seriously considering changing to a nylon string from the steel I've been using.

Monday night will be my first visit to the Tempe Community Chorus.  Its open to everyone, no auditions needed.  It will be wonderful to be surrounded by sound and people who love to do what I love to do.  I miss performing.

I've had a change of costume for this year's 1st annual Halloween Party.  I'm still Geisha/Meiko, just a different dress.  The one I had is frankly way the hell too big.  Good news.  More good news is that this new costume is still sexy and the colors are even better for matching my purple kanzashi.  I'm waiting for it to get here, but here's a pic:

http://www.pinupgirlclothing.com/geishacostume.html

I hope it looks good on me.  Technically I think my costume is more Meiko, especially because of the wig I got:

http://www.buycostumes.com/ProductDetail.aspx?ProductID=18822&PCatID=Search+Results&ccatid=geisha%20wig

Its hard to tell, but the ribbon is pale pink.

Many, many boxes have been arriving at my house, filled with halloween delights.  I think it will take me several days to get the house and backyard decorated!!  Pray for good weather!!!

OMG!!! Sakina, I love that costume!  You'll look great!  

I've already began purchasing Halloween decorations on eBay which, my husband thinks is completely ridiculous but I explained to him, if I purchase now, I can get things cheaper because theres not much of a demand.  However, the reality is that I saw these decorations and just couldn't resist!  :)

I was reading through a few of your posts and your life seems pretty exciting.  I used to sing in choirs and in music groups with friends when I was in school but it seems that the older I get, the less I tend to do.  

Thanks for the vote of confidence, LD.

I've been buying Halloween stuff since last Novemeber.  With so many great websites you can get stuff year round.
Some of my favorite sites are:
www.deadmentellnotales.com -pirate stuff
www.goreydetails.net -edward gorey
www.shindigz.com -party stuff and props
www.buycostumes.com -props & costumes
www.hauntedfog.com -super selection
www.frightcatalog.com -it all started here
www.nightmarefactory.com -costumes

Anywho, I think I'm almost done shopping for this year and most of next year.

I'm feeling a bit pouty today, seems like everybody's hair is longer than mine.  *pout pout*

I'm getting a headache so I think I'll go lie down.

Laters!

No pouting!  I'm pretty sure my hair is shorter than yours!   ;D

And you teach yoga?  I've been doing yoga for just over a year now!  I love it, really helps me center and focus.

October 2006 is my 6th year anniversary of teaching yoga.
I'm glad you like it-me, too!

Ok, you win.  Your hair is probably shorter than mine.   :P   ;D

Sakina, sweetie.....

When I first started surfing the net looking for ideas on how to handle my hair with my bike helmet, I found a couple of long hair sites.  I felt I was always the one with the shortest hair around.  I may have been at times, but there were others with hair shorter than mine, who were also looking for support, inspiration, validation, and help.  Now, several years later, my hair is STILL shorter than those special people that I still idolize and stay in touch with, but in the meantime, my hair has grown!  :o  My hair may be longer than yours, but it is still shorter than many.  Hang in there!  Your hair is growing!!

Congrats on your teaching anniversary!  I do yoga too but at home, I own just about every Rodney Yee yoga dvd.  It helps keep me sane well, yoga and zen.

I've been obsessing about my length alot lately too so don't feel bad, alot of us are in the same boat.   :)

BTW, I purchased some coconut oil today and I LOVE it!!  Thanks for the suggestion!

Now, I'm off to visit those Halloween websites you posted.  I can't wait until Halloween!!!

I didn't get my hair cut yesterday because my car battery died.   >:(
My car guy is on vacation until Tuesday.  I missed work, too.   >:(  >:(
I'm stuck and bored.

Ok, I'm over being a grouchie puss.  I still hate not having my car to drive, thank goodness we have 2 cars!

My invitations came today!!  I was going to make them by hand, now I've changed my mind.

I've nearly gotten all my Halloween party stuff...soon I'll have to start putting stuff up!  I'm not decorating the front yard til after our party-the winds last year totally recked my webs!!  I think I'm going to dress as a witch for handing out candy/toys and not be a sexy Geisha for the kiddies.  ;)

Now I've got to make housekeeping a priority.  Blech!!!

This coming Monday, Labor Day I will be face painting at the gym for 1-1/2 hours.  I'm getting nervous.  I just want to do a good job & make the kids happy.  EEeek!

Hubby is leaving for China Monday night, returning on Friday late.  Oh, dear.  I hope I don't get too bored...guess I'll have lots of time to practice getting ready for guitar lessons again.

In determining BSL, do I measure the top of the bra strap or the bottom?

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In determining BSL, do I measure the top of the bra strap or the bottom?

Personally, I've never thought it to be that "technical." If it falls upon the bra strap, it's BSL. No reason to split hairs, right?  ;D

Good luck with those guitar lessons.  ;)

BSL was a difficult determination for me as well.... since I don't wear a bra, where would it be??  ;D  If it hits the middle of your back, that's good enough for me!

That's funny, I had wondered the same thing about BSL, so I was curious to see what the verdict would be.  

For me, just to be safe, I'd figured the bottom of the strap because then, there could be no doubt that I hadn't achieved it, but it seems that maybe we'll never really know for sure. :-/

wrote on Aug 29^th, 2006 at 11:13am:

Sakina, sweetie..... Hang in there!  Your hair is growing!!

Thanks, BB.  I never thought about you feeling like your hair was short!

I guess I'm going to let it grow to a point mid back that I think looks good.  No way to figure out how long it will be until it gets there.

For right now, my goal over the next year is to change the shape a bit and get as much growth as possible so I can do a Victorian hairdo for next year's Halloween Party.  I want to wear my own hair instead of a wig.

Today I hit a milestone...after shopping at the health food store I got into my car and one of the hairs on the top of my head got caught in the top of the door and was pulled out.  It was a bit of a shock and confusion at first, then I realized it means my hair is longer and if I wear it down (especially on a windy day like today) to be more careful getting into the car.

Yay?!?

wrote on Sep 7^th, 2006 at 10:40pm:

Today I hit a milestone...after shopping at the health food store I got into my car and one of the hairs on the top of my head got caught in the top of the door and was pulled out.  It was a bit of a shock and confusion at first, then I realized it means my hair is longer and if I wear it down (especially on a windy day like today) to be more careful getting into the car. Yay?!?

SEE??!!  Your hair IS growing!  ;D

BB, for a  brief moment I would agree with you.
Last night I got in the mail 2 braiding DVDs by Karen Ribble.  Now I'm back to feeling my hair's too short after attempting some of the new braids.  Dammit!!

It will get better with practice, I know.  Humph! *crosses arms*

Hubby comes home today!! Jupiter was yowling outside my bedroom door this morning.  Ugh!  I don't usually sleep well the first week he's gone, so the interruption was unwelcomed.

I've got a pedicure this morning-gotta go get presentable!

wrote on Sep 8^th, 2006 at 3:00pm:

I've got a pedicure this morning-gotta go get presentable!

Ohh what did you get?? What colour? Did you get any little design done? or perhaps something with tiny rhinestones?
I have just recently found out the beauty of manucure and pedicure and it's my latest fad! Right now I have a medium-red-softly-metallic aweeesome colour, with a tiny daisy on the upper inner side on each big toe. I love it!  ;D ;D  Though my absolute favourite was an intense bright vibrant fuchsia colour like the bugainville flowers. :)
Do tell, what you got this time?
Do you like french? On hands and toes?

Greek_Lady-so nice to hear from you!!  Looks like we have something in common besides LL!  I get pedicures every 3 weeks-since I teach yoga barefoot and live in the dessert my heels get really dry.
I usually have dark red or black toe polish, but this time I went with the French.  I'm surprised how much I like it.  Since I'm dressing as a Geisha for Halloween I needed to tone down the dark polish or else it will show through my white tabi socks.

I think I'm at 12 weeks since my last trim, and my hair is in better shape than I thought.  I'm still doing Ouidad Deep Treatment every 2 weeks and using my moisturizing shampoo once or twice a week.  Mostly I wash every other day, and I've started oiling my scalp either the night before or a couple of hours before I wash.  I've just ordered some stimulating scalp treatment from naturesgift-I could use the calming from the essential oil blend.  I've also ordered a different Ayurvedic hair oil-I really only oil my scalp.  Oiling my ends only seems to weigh down my hair.  I have very few splits-I thought my hair was a lot more trashed from snorkeling.  I think the deep treatments fixed it up!!  I guess we've been home about 6 weeks so that's 3 treatments and I've got another one this Friday.

I still want to fix up the shape of my hair...

I'm on day 7 of a 14 day whole body cleanse.  Its going well, even with my here and there eating less than recommended.  I haven't had any red meat for a week and am surprised that I don't feel crappy.
I had a lymphatic drainage massage yesterday to supplement my cleanse and it was very pleasant and super relaxing.

Halloween, Halloween, Halloween.

I've rescheduled my trim-I think its next week.  So, at 12 weeks (or is it 13) my ends still look good.  I might even skip this one if I didn't want to change the shape.  Perhaps I'll go to trims 4 times a year, and if that works well to 3 trims a year.  I think with my drier hair texture I really can't go longer.  We'll see.

Last night I tried the Nature's Gift Stimulating Scalp Oil-it smells great!!  I scritched first with my horn comb, applied the oil to my scalp & massaged it in.  Then I did my usual piggy braids and off to sleep.  It was nice to catch a hint of the oil blend during the night.  I slept very well.

Now-I've got to wash it out and do my bi-weekly deep treatment.

Currently I'm planning on using the stimulating oil when I plan on doing my deep treat.  On the other nights before I wash (which is about 3 times a week) I'm going to use the Bhringaraj oil.  I haven't tried it yet...My scalp needs regular exfoliation, too.  I exfoliate my face and body 3 times a week and it is keeping my flakiness under control.  Well, not the mental kind, but that's a whole other story...

Took a few pics of my hair this week-came up with another new hairstyle.  I hope to get them posted today-gotta go to the bank after my beautification process.

I really like the scalp oil.  I decided to move my facial day/deep treatday to Monday so I did a regular wash and then Sunday night did another round of scritching and oiling.  My hair is very soft.

I had a massage on Monday to straighten out a bunch of stuff.  Now that I'm back to guitar lessons AND I bought a new guitar (classical style) my left thumb decided to hurt pretty badly.  She straightened it out, it was not a pleasant process.
My right neck and shoulder were really messed up from the trip and carrying my yoga bag on the same shoulder more than usual.  I'd forgotten how intense it can be-luckily its been years since I've needed this kind of bodywork.

Tomorrow I'm ging back to my old (as in previous) hairdresser.  I'm feeling a little anxious-of course my hair is starting to feel longer...I really need it shaped.

The countdown is on...40 days until Halloween.

I just bought 2 new movies:  The Libertine and Aeon Flux.  I like them both very much.

FYI-Target has some really cute terry cloth kitchen towels for Halloween.  I'm going to use mine as guest towels for the party.  I got the skeletons.  Cute!!  They'll go perfectly with the talking skeleton I'm putting in the bathtub and the skull fogger on the countertop...

I'm picturing your bathroom - what a hoot!  I can just imagine what you are doing with the rest of the house!  Your parties must be the social event of the year!

I think the bathroom will be funny...the talking skeleton sounds like a big guy who smoked and drank (Mr. Jab-R-Jaw is the prop name, you can find it at www.shindigz.com).  I'm going to fill the bathtub with white styrofoam peanuts to simulate bubbles, put a funny shower cap on him and stick a back scrubber in his hand.  He's poseable and says 3 phrases like "You call THAT a costume?"  "Will you get me a drink, please?" "Happy Halloween" I think that's what he says.  He's motion activated and his jaw moves when he speaks and his eye sockes have little red lights that blink when he talks.
Too bad I can't program what he says to fit the scenario.

I just hope everyone will have a good time.  I hope I can find a balance between some scary stuff and funny.  I'm not at all into cutesy Halloween stuff.

I'm going to be giving away door prizes and prizes for games, I have a 4' coffin that will be the prize coffin and I'm giving away Alchemy Gothic inscense, a grim reaper candle, skull tea light holders, black cat boppers headbands, etc. so I hope it will be fun.  I'm going to let the person choose and we will have the best male & female costumes that everyone will vote-I have little statuettes for that that say Best Costume.  Its a skeleton holding its own head.  Cute!!

Our outside display will be so much better than last year 'cause I learned how to make realistic lightning and how to light the scene with spot lights and flood lights.  I can hardly wait to start playing with the props.

You MUST take pictures once you have everything set up.  I know Sir Rat would be quite interested in the outside display.  (Assuming he isn't busy getting his Christmas display set up already!)  ;D

Quote:

Too bad I can't program what he says to fit the scenario.

And you're putting this guy in the bathroom? LOL! That just leaves the possibilities wide open, doesn't it?  :-X  ;D

GOD, I love this time of year! The changing colours, the longer nights, elaborate displays everywhere, the decadence, the opulence, the parties, that subtle bite of cold in the air....we do have at least a little of that here in SoCal.  ::)

Your giveaway prizes sound great, Sakina! I'm totally not into the cutesy, hokey, cartoony, country Halloween décor. But my mother is - ugh!  :P  Halloween was interesting at our place for a few years, between dad's Japanese-ish jack-o-lantern designs, mother's cartoony decorations and my smoke machine, spiderwebs and blacklights everywhere (with Midnight Syndicate blaring in the background of course  ;)). These days, I try to participate in the haunted house that my aunt & uncle put on every year.

Hope your party is at least as much fun!  ;)

Oooh!  A haunted house!!!  I LOVE to scare people!!  How fun!!!!!
Today on the way home I stopped by my local CVS and got a couple of latex masks ($4.99 each!) and some green glow sticks (.99 each!).  I'm going to put the glow sticks in my prize coffin.  Another way to use the sticks that I love (cheap thrills) is to put them in the cooler.  Now, my cooler is a blow up vinyl witch and her cauldron is the cooler so its extra fun but it would still be fun in a regular one!!

Oops, pushed the wrong button-I wasn't done posting!!

This year I have a ground fogger.  I haven't tried it out yet, but the idea is to cool the fog so it stays low on the ground and tickles your toes.  I have 2 regular fog machines, too.
I was disappointed with the Midnight Syndicate CD I bought so I haven't bought more.  Do you have a favorite, Angel Spun?

A ground fogger? How cool! May I ask where you got it? Or did you do the ice box attachment with a regular fog machine?
   One of the best ways I've learned to get that layer of fog on the ground is with a few giant mist makers in buckets. They use water to create the fog instead of glycerine.


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Do you have a favorite, Angel Spun?

My favourites are the Joseph Vargo collaborations: Born Of The Night and Realm Of Shadows.

The absolute BEST fog machine is a dry ice machine.  Dry ice + water + fan = great, thick fog that hugs the ground completely.

It's really good for a bubbling cauldron too, since it'll boil and bubble away for a good long time.  :D

Angel Spun, I got my ground fogger from www.frightcatalog.com.  What is a giant mist maker?  Sounds interesting.  The cd I have is the Realm of Shadows.  Guess I just don't like it much.

Berkanna, what kind of fan do you use?  I have this image of all the fog being blown away...

Hair report card:  My hairdresser said my hair is in good condition (yay!) and she took about 1/2" off.  Its so funny how we want it to look super good but not loose any length at the same time!  The shape is much better and now that my hair has more internal weight (thanks to Ouidad) when I reach my BSL goal I'm taking the layers out.  I thought I'd be stuck with them but my hair doesn't frizz and fly away anymore.  Super yay!

FYI-If you have a Big Lots! store near you...I got some great tombstones for $10 each.  I think they're much nicer that the ones at Michael's craft store and they're taller.  I got a super tall one for $14 @ BL.  CVS bought all of the Osco Drug stores out here-if there are any by you, Osco has the best selection of sizes and types and prices on black & orange candles.

Wow...how great that you have a real stylist who actually shares your hair goals! That is rare...

Mist makers are little, round, metallic devices that convert water into mist when submerged. They come in all sizes, but smaller ones are the most popular. Most of them have LED lights on top.
   I'm all too familiar with the Fright Catalog (who would've guessed?  ;)), but I confess it's been awhile since I last checked it out.

Not a fan of Realm Of Shadows, eh? Bummer. I do rather like the theme of MS's new album...but not sure whether I'll actually buy it.

All this talk of Halloween shopping is making me realize that I'm wayyy behind on it! lol I'll have to fix that...  *shifty eyes*

Thanks, Angel Spun for the info on the misters.  I didn't know you could buy them like that...got my imagination churning but I think I'll have to do it in the future.  I think it will work very cool for the Pirate party (two years from now).  Ooohh a haunted ship with mist everwhere.

I still don't have my computer up and running-we have to reload everthing.  Ugh!

Hair is good, seems short but that's cause of the wave shrinkage.  :-/

Tonight hubby & I spray painted a couple of small hanging skeletons with flouresent paint for one of my 3 black light alcoves.  Fun!!

BTW, Michael's craft store has a lot of the Halloween stuff on sale...just in case anyone was looking  ::)

I started filling out the invitations today... 8-)

No prob, Sakina.  ;)  Oooh a pirate party?

Pirates will be the theme of my Halloween Party in 2008.

I did an awesome pinned up hairdo today, hubby took some pics but I won't be able to post them until we get the computer straightened out.  What a pain they can be when not behaving correctly.  I don't know how long it will take hubby to reload all of our programs so until then I'm still on his laptop at night.

Sakina wrote on Sep 22^nd, 2006 at 3:33pm:

[Berkanna, what kind of fan do you use?  I have this image of all the fog being blown away...

Dry Ice 'mist' is heavier than regular air, so it doesnt' go too far.  Way back when I was a theater major in college, we used a big 55-gallon drum, with a small electric fan attached to the inside of the lid at the opening where we attached a dryer hose. (does that make sense?)

The fan would push the fog up through the hose, and we could direct it pretty much anywhere on stage that way.  If we ran it long enough, the fog would cover the whole stage, and then 'fall' off the front edge.  Neat, and creepy looking!  :D

Good luck figuring out the fog situation!! I hope you'll post pictures when you're done, I'm sure it'll look great!

I will be taking pictures, I hope they turn out.  Last year I tried to get pics of the fog and I think it just looks weird.

I think I posted those pics in my journal last year.  It's called Sakina's Hair Raising Adventures.  Page 30.

I've got my invitations out...been cleaning with still more to do.  We're going to be starting the background decorating soon-I may not be posting much for awhile.

I will still be checking in and reading posts, though!!  I'm currently on hubby's laptop-he thinks he's close to getting the internet up and running on our PC.  

YAY!!!  :-D Hubby fixed the PC, I'm no longer tied to his laptop!!!

I just saw your Halloween pics from last year, very cool.  I especially liked your witch with flaming red hair!!  Your husbands make up was great too, you did a wonderful job!

Thanks, L_D!  Sorry I'm so slow at responding-stupid computer problems have returned.   >:(

I wore that red wig as Ariel the Little Mermaid in a recital.  He doesn't want me to paint his face this year.  What a big baby.   ::)

Well...other than stupid computer not much is new.  Today I was diagnosed as having anxiety disorder.  Nice to know I'm not actually crazy.

I tried the bliss butter balm on my ends the other night, I think I'll keep doing it before I wash.  I think the rich balm breaks out my neck if I sleep in it.   :P

I got a nice compliment on my hair from one of my students today-my hair was down and still drying by the time I got to work.  Cool.

Hubby's trying to fix our PC...I hope he can.  I hate having to wait until he's done at night to use his laptop.  Plus the little keyboard drives me nuts!  At least the smilies are working on the laptop!

You have an anxiety disorder too!?!!  Welcome to the club!!!  I was diagnosed early this past summer and was also relieved that I wasn't CrAzY [smiley=2vrolijk_08.gif] or having a heart attack.  I haven't taken any meds in about 2 months I believe, and everythings been fine, I'm thinking it was just a phase. Hopefully it will only be a phase of anxiety for you too.

Are you still going to be a geisha?  Since your husband won't let you paint his face, maybe he could be your danna, although it wouldn't be a very interesting costume. :P

I think I've had anxiety disorder most of my life.  I think my grandma has it, my dad and my sister, too.  Sis had some full blown panic attacks and has been on drugs for it for several years.
I always had music-singing in particular that I think was my way of dealing with the anxiety.
Since I stopped singing I have had a much harder time of it.  I think its getting worse as I'm getting older, but maybe its a lack of coping skills.

I had a great guitar lesson today, I think I really like learning it-even though I don't yet
"play" play.  I forgot to mention that I got some awesome new stickers for my guitar case-2 of Felix the Cat, Rocky Horror Picture Show "Give yourself over to absolute pleasure" and Momento by Nene Thomas.  I love decorating my cases.  This one has totally different stickers than my Seagull.  I'm working on not duplicating my stickers.  Someday I'll also have an electric guitar and a 12-string acoustic/electric with more cases to decorate!!!!

I'm still going to be geisha.  I got hubby a samurai costume-lots of armour.  I was hoping to paint his face like those scarry masks the samurai wore.  He'll just not be wearing the makeup.  :-/

I wore two pair of longlocks sticks in my bun today-as part of an experiment.  I have layers in my hair and cannot get my bun centered if I don't have it in a pony first.  Today I put it in a pony and twisted and coiled and inserted the hairsticks.  Then I used my Amish hairpins to pin down the rest.  It was very tight and secure.  I think my bun looks nicer or more balanced when I put the hairsticks in last.  Doing it that way also lets me use a bit of hairspray to control those layers before adding the sticks.

I am going to get rid of these layers, once I reach BSL.

I'm trying extrememe H2O 54% contact lenses.  I think I really like them.  They're moisturizing and I can see quite clearly, unlike the hydroclear I wore last year.

This weekend begins the big decorating push...party's almost here!!!!!!!!  [smiley=beer.gif]

Add me to the list too.  I've had an anxiety disorder for years now and have to take medication :-[  My family had it too so that's were I got it. :-/  However, I Sally Forth with life and try not to let it get me down or worst...slow me down [smiley=thumbsup.gif]

I wanted to go as a Geisha for halloween too but I don't want to ruin my good kimono's.  I think I go as Harry Potter, I have the scarf and a cape, plus with my glasses and my hair tied back to will be easy to chase my 2 year old neice around for trick or treating! [smiley=cheesy.gif]

Well, what lovely company I'm in!!

We've been hanging purple lights in the backyard trees.  The lemon & lime have 2 inch long thorns-I got stuck right in the top of my head!  Youch!!!

Decorated part of the space above the garage-I'll be taking pictures.  So far its cute.  Working with hubby, not so cute.  Ugg.  Engineers!

Having late lunch of soy corndogs from Trader Joe's.  Yum!!  Need more fuel so I don't loose my temper w/lovely hubby.

Laters!

Weeellll....turns out we had 19 viruses on our PC.  We're trying out some new stuff, hopefully it is almost fixed.

I'm still planning on posting my Halloween pics as soon as I get the all clear on the PC.

I've been doing the curly girl routine for 2-1/2 weeks and it is making a noticible difference-I've even gotten "Your hair is gorgeous" compliments in person!!!

My folks & grandma arrived Tuesday-as usual exhausting fun.  They stayed at our house the first 2 nights and are now at their trailer.  This year I did some xmas decorating since we had company.  As a child, we always went to grandma's house for christmas and she would have it all warm and beautiful so I wanted to do the same for her.  She turned 84 Dec. 3rd.  She said it was so beautiful she could cry.  I'm really happy with how it turned out.

I was asking my mom about my hair when I was little, it was very wavy and the ends curled into ringlets.  She also said that for the first year my hair would only grow to 1 inch long and was so fair I looked bald.  I think with a bit more length the ringlets will come back-my wave development has increased dramatically with the curly girl routine.

Well, I'm making dinner rolls from scratch and its time to turn the proof out and roll 'em into balls to refrigerate until Sunday.

19 viruses???!!!  :o  I'd say it is time for you to invest in some virus software!  I wouldn't access the internet without it.

Getting hair compliments is so great!  Congrats - the curly girl routine must be the right routine for you.

Truth is we need a new computer...we signed up with a new IP that has anti-virus for free.

Seems like forever since I started on this growing it out path-guess its now starting to payoff externally, too.

I've been having some trouble with my scalp being really dry-I'm way off track taking my regular Flax, Evening Primrose, Borage & Fish oil supplements.  I've decided to try a new product from Noodles & Boo.  Its baby shampoo that's suposed to be very moisturizing and gentle.  I'm only using shampoo about once every 14 days, so maybe its just winter, lacking my usual internal oils and the adjustment to infrequent shampooing.

I'm still continuing to use Ouidad products, primarily the Quench Conditioner & Gel.

I'm almost done another year here at Longlocks!  January 23rd is my anniversary...

Actually, you registered on December 24th, so you've already passed your anniversary!  Congratulations!  :D

Whoa!  That's news to me  ;D.  I've been counting the first day of my journals as my anniversary.

Cool.

I'm going to do a scalp exfoliation today-1 Tablespoon of brown suger mixed into 3 Tablespoons of conditioner.  After that I'll put 1 Tablespoon of edible aloe gel and massage it into my scalp to moisturize it.  The tricky part is getting all of the gel rinsed out so my roots won't be crunchy, and then use my conditioner.

Its been a lot colder than usual here-daytime highs in the mid 50's.  (I know, I know, I don't need to hear it...I love living in the desert for the sun & warmth  :P)  Our humidity has been really low, which is making me super dry and I'm super dry by nature so its darn near unbearable.  At least I'm not cracking and bleeding yet, although I don't plan on it getting that far!

For you Aquis super absorbant hair towel fans...they've got a new one out that has a waffle-weave surface AND its larger in size.  Love it!!  I got myself one when I first saw it (I got mine at Bed, Bath & Beyond, approx $17.99US) and then hubby got me a second one for xmas.  Its super soft and really absorbs the water out of the hair.  On the package it says Microfiber Hair + Body Towel 19" x 39".  Ahhhh, maybe that's why its so much bigger-the + body part.  Anyway, as my hair gets longer this new size will become more necessary and it does a great job on it now!!!

I outgrew the hair towel sizes a couple years ago and now use a large dog towel!  Having two would be wonderful - you are a lucky gal!