Thank you so much!  

For the side braids and lace braids, it's basically the same thing.  I started doing my hair like this because I didn't like all of my hair braided, or the "lump" I would get on the top of my head from a single braid.  

Part hair on top of head down the center.  Then put tip of comb at top of crown of head at the end of the part you just drew.  Draw the comb down to just behind the ear.  Put a loose tie or clip on that section.  Do the same to the other side.
You should now have each "side" of your head in two clips.  Then, I gently braid the length in the back to keep it out of my way and from snagging while I braid the sides.

For the lace braid, begin a French braid close to the hair line in the front, add sections to the braid only on the "outside" pieces.  (You can also do a basic French braid here, and add pieces to both sides of the braid.)  Once all the loose hair is braided, continue basic braid to end (or in my case - end of layers!) and secure with hair-safe band.

Repeat on other side.  You should now have two side braids with long tails, and the back in a long basic braid.

Pull the ends of the two braids together, remove the two bands from the braids with one hand while holding them together with the other hand.  Then secure both tails into a single hair safe band.

Remove large basic braid band from rest of hair.

Lately, I've been applying conditioner to the hair before I braid it to up the shine and sleek look.

Hope this helps!!  Let me know if it doesn't, and I'll try posting some picture instructions.

Whoa, those are some serious curls!
And your hair certainly seems to be getting longer. Keep up the good work!