Which Is Cuter? St. John Bay or Michael Kors Espadrilles

$69.99 Macys online or instore

$30.00 JCP online or instore

Its what you like your style and if labels really dictate how much you would spend on clothing. Personally I do not like espadrilles its like glorified twine (or renamed string)... But I saw these at JCP and there kinda cute. The MK flats with espadrille design has a foot bottom soley made out of espadrille texture: how uncomfortable is that?

Netflix Knows What There Goal Is...

I recently posted a blog about Netflix and how it's prices went up but the quality and quantity did not

A article written by Molly Mchugh in this passed September seems to hear the outcry of all Netflix customers and responds, in DigitalTrends.com Mchugh states Netflix knows what their doing walking away from the money to focus on "the bigger picture"


CO-Founder of Netflix Marc Randolph  Excerpt (digitaltrends.com)

"The entrepreneur goes on to say that the complications of running the DVD rental and streaming sales through one platform were incredibly divisive — and something the company experienced back when it also sold DVDs. This was profitable and good business, but executives knew everyone was about to begin selling DVDs, giving them more competition. That and “trying to run a business that did two things well” meant making unsavory comprises. So they walked away from that money and stopped selling DVDs.

And it wasn’t easy. “But wow – for a young CEO like myself – turning away from the source of 95-percent of our revenue was just about the hardest thing I had ever done. Needless to say, it worked.” The rest is history and Netflix went on to see big money from its rental service, and then streaming."


Read all about it here: digitaltrends.com

Netflix Down in the Dumps?

But for how long, the rate increase is nothing new, the new monthly plan for DVD's by mail went into affect late 2009 (I believe), but the effects of customers dropping their plans are continuing. Netflix was arguably the "best option" for combined movie rentals, online television and  streaming movies has now become a waste of money, and possibly betrayer to movie watchers since the pricing hike:

Quote:

"Netflix isn't looking like it's as good a deal because their prices are getting higher and their content isn't getting any better"

A quick comparison: Blockbusters has the latest video games for many gaming systems, classic movies available to rent*, and new movie releases sooner (one month sooner than Netflix). The drawbacks were the higher pricing for video game rentals and damaged disc's arriving in the mail, also Blockbuster has no choice of watching streaming television shows nor movies online, with the option of linking your computer to your television.

While the contender Netflix, had lower monthly pricing with little to no damaged DVD's arriving in my mailbox quicker versus Blockbuster's damages dics and incredibly slow shipping.

Netflix ability to have movies only for purchase (no rental option) was frustrating, while Blockbuster has the same movies both for rental and purchase.

Though Netflix is not a source for gaming rentals the company stating, "It's merely a movie rental business, Blockbuster success with the addition of video games rental is obvious.

My 2 CENTS:

Something gotta give either add new components or lower your prices, it's your move, choose wisely, Netflix.

Netflix Price VS Plans

Mega Deal shown on the News

Now that the eight dvd's for $49.99 monthly plan is now eliminated from the options available, the company is not as convenient nor economical as before the rate change:

The popular plan I bought though-out 2008-2010:

$15.99 plan for 3 DVD plus streaming Movie & Television

(This great Deal no longer available).

Some are calling Netflix pricing increase greed which is why many loyal Netflix customers are questioning staying while other customers (like me), have yet to renew their accounts.

To me it's seems more idiotical than greed, there are no online upgrades, no rush to get new releases out sooner, or new movie selections available yet the priced plans remains high.

High price with no new options screams stepping on the little gal and guys out there, the movie watchers who wants to watch movies at their leisure without the commitment of buying a $14 - $30 dollar dvd; only to to be watched twice and left to be forgotten. 

Netflix gave you the guilty pleasure of watching old favorites that you'd never buy (like the box set of Xena: Warrior Princess), but you would watch if a friend shamefully wasted money the on it themselves.

Also Netflix has the convenience of catching up on televison shows: like The Office

I would have never understood or enjoy The Office if I didn't have Netflix, I caught up on many missed episodes and now it's one of my favorite television show, all because of a cool fifteen bucks a month and streaming television options: Life should be about accommodating everyone, not nickel and diming consumers.

Options is what consumers flock to, Netflix it's time to get back in the game.


Related Articles on Netflix New Platform

TribeLive Business

CNET NEWS

Bloomberg BusinessWeek


CNBC

Fullcap Review: Freetress Synthetic Fullcap Band - Verona Girl

Name: Verona girl  


Brand: Freetress

Style: Collar-bone length with bangs


Price: $31.99+shipping -


Color List: I purchase #2 Available in Variety of Colors


Websites: I Purchased mines from Blackhairspray.com


Additional Website Selling this wig: clairhair.com, Amazon, Tophairwigs.com


Combs: Yes three, 1 top front of the hair line and 2 comb separated in the back nape area.


Band Stretch Clip: No clips.

Quick Review: I give this wig a C-

The wig out the box looks cute, at first glance, then I notice  not only does this wig have no stretch clip in the back, but trying the wig on, Verona gives the top of my head a weird pointed look. The texture looks like a fresh relaxer and the feel is course but still smooth to the touch.  I like the bangs the wig has a better quality look then many wig with bangs. The style is similar to a weave, if not pull down to much

I couldn't tell that the wig had sharp layers looking at it myself, since the online pictures shown on many websites, the wig looks choppy and cheap, but in youtube video's the ladies look great in theirs so I bought Verona.

Verona give no security,  many times it felt as though the wig shifted and could slip off even with the help on hair pins.

Dare I say I like fullcap (bandcaps), better than the dreaded lace front wig, yes, I dare to say: I like Fullcap wigs!

Product Review: Garnier Fructis Pure Clean Fortifying Conditioner & Shampoo

Garnier Fructis Pure Clean Shampoo Conditioner Duo UPDATED October 05, 2011


Original Post Date: September 02, 2011l

Follow-Up: After using both conditioner and shampoo for a month it can cause a drying effect, sometime I'd use the conditioner alone and after my hair hair dries it is a little rough and my scalp is dry. Using both products rinsing my hair clean then using Sauve Coconut conditioner on my hair when damp keeps my hair soft and moisturized longer, without leaving in Sauve  my hair would be dry and my reviews on hair products are in search for products that does the job and more.

 My New Rating for both Garnier Fructis Pure Clean Shampoo & Conditioner: C-

Pure Clean does a very good job of cleaning my hair but not stripping all the moisture out like most shampoos, but the conditioner is not as creamy and moisturizing as a hoped, in fact the conditioner is also good as a shampoo, it does a very bad job of conditioning my hair, so I enjoy using the shampoo is half a bottle left as I type, the conditioner I've used only twice and is now left in my bathroom drawer.




Smells great, left my hair soft, tangled free, and smelling wonderful

Name: Garnier Frucis Pure Clean

Brand:  Conditioner & Shampoo

Size: 13 0z.- 25.4 oz.

Scent: Light Fruity

Color: Clear (Shampoo) White (Conditioner)

Consistency: Thick

Price: $3.99 Less than four buck at target (I guess it was an introductory price).

Shampoo

Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Amino Methyl Propanol, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Chloride, Hexylene Glycol, Pyrus Malus (Apply Fruit Extract), Parfum (Fragrance), Sodium Benzoate, Hydroxypropyl Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Citric Acid, Salicylic Acid, Benzoic Acid, Niacinamide, Pyridoxine HCI, Capric/Caprylic Triglyceride, Linalool, Hexylcinnamal, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugar Cane) (Sugar Cane Extract), Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon Peel Extract), Camellia Sinenis (Green Tea) (Leaf Extract), Malpighia Punicifolia (Acerola Cherry) (Acerola Fruit Extract), Sodium Hydroxide

Conditioner

Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Cetearyl Alcohol, Distearoylethyl Hydroxyethylmonium Methosulfate, Octyldodecanol, Parfum (Fragrance), Pyrus Malus (Apple Fruit Extract), Zea Mays (Corn Starch), Camelina Sativa (Seed Oil), Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot Kernel Oil), Glycine Soja (Soybean Oil), Tocopherol, Caprylyl Glycol, Benzoic Acid, Niacinamide, Pyridoxine HCI, Capric/Caprylic Triglyceride, Linalool, Hexylcinnamal, Citric Acid, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugar Cane) (Sugar Cane Extract), Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon Peel Extract), Camellia Sinenis (Green Tea) (Leaf Extract), Malpighia Punicifolia (Acerola Cherry) (Acerola Fruit Extract)

Grade: B-: There's oils and natural botanicals in the conditioner, I'm not too crazy about oils in my hair care products, but this conditioner and shampoo duo seems to work, for naturals it's worth a try.

Try it out for yourself you might just have a NEW favorite product! 

I do not get payment for any products reviewed on RoseColoredShades.

Lace Front Review: Darling (Model Model Brand)

Name: Darling 

Brand: Model Model Futura

Price: $29.99

Color List: I purchase #2 Available in Variety of Colors

Websites: I Purchased mines from Clairhair.com.com

Additional Website Selling this wig: Blackhairspray.com, Amazon, Tophairwigs.com

Combs: Yes three 2 top front of the hair line and 1 comb in the back nape area.

Band Stretch Clip: Yes, a very long one.

Quick Review: I give this wig a sad D-

Comfort & Wig Shape
Wig shape is all right, since there are no side combs it makes it hard for a secure wig. I know many ladies like to secure their wigs with bobby pin (hair pins), but I like the added comfort of combs.

Wig Accuracy and Length (Accurate As Shown on Website)
The lenght is not the same as it looks online: In the front of my "Darling" is is shorter, the back of this wig lenght looks about the same maybe half a inch longer online and on the mannequin.


Two Issues with Length


1. This wig have layers but not as many layers as shown online and the front this wig does not reach past collar bone lenght (almost touching the top of the chest). I do understand the wig is on a mannequin head instead of a human head or my own head but still...


2. The wig looks fuller thicker online, and the wig has little body and is flat and the hair is much more thin, not at all as full as the pictures online.  


Lace Difficulty and "Baby Hair"
Since lace has to be cut, it was difficult to cut correctly with the baby hairs only a small patch I thought I blindly cut more baby hairs then I actually did. I check the lace there was only a small section of baby hair and I made sure not to cut it.

The lace is very visible when the hair is pull slightly back or up, I tried the hair pin method it does not work since there isn't a gap where tracks start, many wigs have spaces near the ear so it easy to slide hair pin near the ear, it was not possible I was trying to push hair pin through solid lace. 

The only way to wear this wig is straight down, I cannot show my ears unless I want to show unwanted lace or my own hairline, the poor workmanship on the side of the ears is irritating.

Hair Quality 

The quality of the hair seem all right for now, I had this wig for only a couple of days, I will write a follow up review of this wig in about 2 weeks of wearing.

Texture
It has slip, which I love to feel on new hair, but it is a synthetic fiber so it does have a course plastic doll like feel to it as well.


Shedding
This Wig sheds like crazy I wear this wig for work and I must wear a thin hair net to ensure hair isn't falling all over the place because it sheds just by me moving. I am Not Lying, a slight tug and 3-4 hairs are in my hands. Combing the hair is ok, but in some places 4-5 hairs come out in the comb, in some areas the tracks are very loose.


Styling
I find it a little difficult to cover the top back part of the wig, where the top of the head "the hump" of the wig is located. What I am trying to cover is the tracks, if I do not smooth the thin layer of hair over this part of the wig it is very visible to see, it is not possible to wear this wig in many styles. I seriously doubt I can have an up-do like the model below. As for heat I haven't tried to style it with a curling iron (flat iron). I will give an update on heat styling soon.

Care
Haven't washed this wig yet. Update Coming Soon.

Pictures from: http://www.clairhair.com

Hair Review: Lynx (Model Model Brand)

Name:  Lynx

Brand: Model Model

Price: Was $40.00  Now: $25.49-$40.00

Color List: I purchase #4 Available in Variety of Colors

Website: I Purchased mines from Blackhairspray.com

Additional Website Selling this wig: Clairhair.com, Amazon, Tophairwigs.com

Side Combs: 2 side combs One at fore-line one in the back

Band Stretch Clip: Yes in the back.

Quick Review: I give this wig a solid C+

Comfort & Wig Shape
I had to get use to this wig, the wig near both of the ears was not shaped for your ears which makes it uncomfortable and oddly made. Also many others who purchase this wig complained that the wig itself was far too large, creating a puffy dome look, even spacey looking head shape. I was able to create a nice smooth even head shape with my wig, I cannot say if my head is larger or smaller then most people's, I just don't know.

Length (Accurate As Shown on Website)
The bangs are longer than shown on the websites, I believe many wig manufacturers take upon themselves to alter the wig in their favor so more people buy them.

Hair Quality 

The quality of the hair fiber is good Lynx's doesn't look like doll's hair, or extremely shiny fake synthetic hair. The wig (is made of human hair blend), I don't know what that really means, but the color I picked #4, looks really good.

Texture
Silky Soft to the touch fibers makes this wig a little lovable, besides the goof of the non-ear shaping on both sides of the wig, the quality of the hair I would say is very good. I imagine if this wig was a shoulder lenght layered cut I'd buy more than one.


Shedding
It doesn't shed that much and styling was easy, there was no tangling though short lenght wigs are easier to manage when it comes to tangles.


Styling
You can curl this wig but from my experience I am not sure the curls hold from just curling with a curling iron alone, extra styling with curlers and hair products is probably needed to hold curls longer than a couple of hours.

Care
This wig washes well, I place the wig in a bucket filled with cool water till the wig was submerged completely in water. A small drop of conditioner or shampoo can be used to condition and clean hair as well. The good thing is that a few days out of the plastic and the wig loss it's manufactures smell and was replaced by the hair gloss I styled the wig with: which is great.

Side Note: Placing your wig in water completely is Not recommend for most wig care.

The only down side is the difficulty in originality, I would walk into offices and see white ladies with the same side swoop bob, I would laugh. Also though its easy to put this wig on brush and comb the hair to your desires, I couldn't help but think the bangs on this wig seemed a little too long,it kinda reminded me of Justin Beber's famous locks.


Pictures from: http://www.clairhair.com

Late: Maybe? But I Want It! Minx Nail Coverings

I'm late, but so what: Minx nail covering has been around for a while: a good minute, and I'm just getting around to really wanting all 10 digits to shine bright!

Solange Wearing Obama (Who Knew) We Could Wear Our President!

I really want to try them: Minx Nail Covering, that is. I'm not even a nail froo froo person but nail covering seems fun, easy, and stylish! So count me in, I keep my nails up, moisturized, unpolished but looking nicely noticeable for the compliment: "Nice Hands": I said hands, not nails, some female get their nails done every week or two and their hands are still busted. Some people can't help it: scars etc, but I rather have someone compliment me on my hands then just on my nails.

Minx What Is It?

http://tonywilliamsmusic.wordpress.com/2009/07/

Minx Nail Coverings are made from a thin film foil

with an adhesive underside that is applied using a heat source.

Because the coverings are made of a film foil, picture perfect images can be printed on the coverings to create bold and eye catching designs. The materials used are Eco friendly, safe on the nails, and because there is no polish or chemicals used, there is no drying time and no chipping! Just stick, heat, trim and your nails are fashion forward and ready to wear! Removal is just as easy as the application. Just set a blow dryer on high heat, place the heat over the fingernails and peel off the foil.

Whats The Different Between Stick On's and Minx?

What makes Minx different from the nail stickers you can buy in the store is the material and the adhesive.

 Quote
"I don't know about any of you but I've tried the Avon and Incoco versions and could never get them to stick or lay properly. Plus, they just looked cheap. Minx is definitely a higher end product."

Eve Sporting Obama

Being that nail polish has come ways, from the horrible formaldehyde, animal testing, etc ways, I really have been leaning to wear more nail polish, and Minx is just too cute and fun to pass up!

Pros Minx: Pass Up Nail Polish!

Pros

Easy to apply - There's no mess, no wait time, no accidental smudging or sheet marks Looks you can't acheive with polish - True chrome, intricate patterns, your dog (if that's your thing)
Perfect for pedicures - They last forever on toes. With no drying time they're ideal for winter pedis. You'd never have to leave the salon in flip flops with frozen toes. FYI - I saw Telia's toes with Golden Lightening and they looked beyond fab!
A "green" product that doesn't use chemicals for application or removal. Just a little heat and some gentle peeling takes Minx right off.

Cons

The edges are never truly smooth no amount of filing will get them smooth
The tips will start to lift in a matter of days: depends on how active you are also
The line at the cuticle is rounded so they won't match every nail shape

Application - A basic manicure is performed before application and the nail plate must be cleaned of all oils and residue. The coatings are heated under a lamp or hair dryer to make them flexible and warm the adhesive. The tech then lines up the rounded edge with the cuticle and, while lightly dragging, presses the coating onto the nail. Telia used a hair dryer, after applying, to help the coatings seal onto my nails, like shrink wrap, before using the Minx glass nail file to remove the excess.

Price? Well I read anywhere from $40 and up

I'm going to NY, so I'm wondering if any shops in the area I'm visiting does nail coverings: I'm not even sure thats how I'm suppose to phrase it but, hey!

Product Review: Taliah Waajid: Enhancing Herbal Conditioner

I love, love love this conditioner the scent remind me Now or Later banana chews candy, Yummy!

Name: Taliah Waajid (Black Earth Products)

Brand Used: Enhancing Herbal Conditioner

Size: 8 oz.

Scent: Banana scented?

Color: Yellow

Consistancy: Thick
Price: $8.99

It made my hair soft and de-tangled my hair very well, I used this conditioner on clean damp hair and let air dry, I notice you can't use too much or the end results when my hair was dry was gummy/sticky hair and dry course hair.

I haven't tried the shampoos or any other conditioners, I pick this bottle up at a local beauty supply store for about $8 bucks that's pretty pricey considering its only 8 ounces worth of product. 

The ingredients are mostly oils so be careful not to over use this conditioner; it'll dry out your hair 

Enhancing Herbal Conditioner

Ingredients: Pure distilled Water, Anise, capsicum Oil, Olive Oil, Wheat Germ, Bees Wax, Aloe Vera, Walnut Oil, Cherry bark, Calendula, Thyme, Kiola, Quine seed complex, Vitamin E, Silk protein, Apple extract, lavender Extract, balsam canada, Bay laurel, fruit Bio-flavonoid.

Grade: B-: There is a lot of oils in the ingredient label I'm not too excited about hair care products loaded with oils since oil is not a moisturizer, though it did give me the benefits I wanted: De-tangled, Manageable, Soft hair: what more can a girl ask for?

On the label it doesn't say organic oils, so I might need to check the official website to find out if all products used in her haircare products are organic, at least check to see if the oils itself are organic and pressed in a safe way.


Website: http://www.naturalhair.org/

This conditioner smells like banana Now or Laters!

Try it out for yourself you might just have a NEW favorite product! 

I do not get payment for any products reviewed on RoseColoredShades.

Product Review: Jason Thin to Thick Conditioner

Jason Natural Cosmetics Conditioner, Thin-To-Thick Hair & Scalp Therapy

I never understood why there was a need for hair products that thickened hair, until I became ill, the effects of the illness caused my hair to fall out and thinned, I was left with areas of my head where my scalp showed. 

I found Jason's Thin-To-Thick conditioner and shampoo, with one wash my hair was thicker almost as thick as before the illness;  this products thicken my hair so that those areas where my scalp shown was not as visible.

 I really enjoy using this conditioner; when my hair was extremely thin I searched for conditioner that would thicken my hair without too much product build-up or chemicals. I did not want a hair product that would irritate my scalp further causing hair loss. This product is sulfate free and paraben free: Note: not all Jason's beauty products are free of sulfates, parabens and other skin irritants: please carefully read Jason's beauty product  labels to make sure you are purchasing chemical free ingredients.

If you are suffering from thin or thinning hair from heredity, hormones, or sickness first talk to your doctor or a hair and scalp expert and/or licensed trichologist, to see whats the best and safest way to thicken your hair, some hair products may irritate the scalp which can cause more hair loss, so please do all your research before trying hair products.

Note: The Thin-To-Thick Hair conditioner & shampoo feels like a medicated hair products, so if you are sensitive to medicated hair products this product may not be for you

This conditioner is loaded with different types of protein, protein strengthens and thickens hair and can cause brittle hair if used to often:

Sea Kelp/Algae Extract

Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5),

Hydrolyzed Hair Keratin

Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein

Rice Protein

Soy Protein 

Reminder: When using protein conditioners remember to follow up with a hydrating (moisturizing) conditioner to prevent brittle dry hair. 

I was using this conditioner at least three days a week, but stopped because my hair became extremely dry and brittle, the old formula had less heavy proteins but did have Peppermint Oil and Menthol in both the conditioner and shampoo

NOTE: Peppermint and Menthols (medicated ingredients) in many hair products can strip the hair of natural oils and cause brittle dry hair.

If your hair is thin you should be aware that this products contain strong proteins and menthol like peppermint which can not only dry-out hair, if using this condition on a daily basis can over-condition your hair with protein which causes brittle, dry hair with hair strands thicker in some areas and remain thin in other areas, which leads to breakage.

Cost: $7-$13.00 Online and in Local Grocery (Health) Stores 
Size: 8 oz.

Scent: Minty 

Consistency: Creamy & Thick

Feeling on scalp: Tingly medicated feel when applying the conditioner it feels like a medicated conditioner because of the (Peppermint) Oil, Menthol 

Effective??? This product is effective in thickening thin hair

The old ingredients had more organic ingredients with botanicals 


The new formula have alcohols and fillers also with theses new ingredients effected of the softness of my hair which felt less hydrated; though the new formula still does a great job of thickening hair.

New  Ingredients: 

Hawaiian Sea Kelp (Algae Extract), Soft Water (Purified), Ceteareth-20, Aloe Vera (Aloe Barbadensis) Leaf Gel, Behentrimonium Methylsulfate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Acetamide MEA, Marigold Extract, Comfrey (Symphytum Officinale) Leaf Extract, Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5), Lecithin, Glyceryl Stearate, Planthenol 3, Stearyl Alcohol, Horsetail Extract (Organic Silicone), Cocodimonium Hydroxypropyl Hydrolyzed Hair Keratin, Ginseng (Panax Ginseng) Extract, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Wheat Oligosaccharides, Biosaccharide Gum 1, Mucopolysaccharides, Steardimonium Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5), Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Allantoin (Comfrey Root), Vitamin C (Ester C), Jojoba Oil, Phyto-Complex of the Following:, Juniper, Cedarwood, Cypress (Cupressus Sempervirens), Yarrow, Burdock, Lavender, Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A), Rice Protein, Benzophenone 3, Soy Protein, Tocopheryl Nicotinate, Folic Acid (Folate) Vitamin B12, Methylparaben, Cysteine HCl, Propylparaben, Citric Acid (pH Balancing), Essential Oil

http://www.amazon.com/Jason-Thick-Shampoo-Conditioner-Combo/dp/B0006GZADU

Try the pair of Conditioner & Shampoo out!

Seriously Dry New Growth: Bring Out The Reinforcements!

Ok as you guys know I have natural 4A\B Slash quad Z's hair, so at times my hair gets stubborn and just plain difficult to moisturize, thats when I bring out "The Reinforcements"

Honey 1 TB

Mayo 2-4 TB

and  Cholestorol  Generous Amount (Whatever amount needed)

I mix these bad boys together, apply to the my whole head: and a little extra on the driest part: New Growth

I leave this on for 30 minutes (with or with out heat, your choice): I dont leave it on longer: since it may over moisturize the hair and cause too much elasticity: which is not a good thing

I rinse out and follow up with sealing my hair: I dont rinse with shampoo (only when my hair has extreme product build-up), but I do risnse with a Vinegar Rinse every now and then if theres is light conditioner build-up.

Results: My wet it is soft, detangled and moisturized, when my hair is completly dry: Soft fluffy texture

Try it: Your hair may thank you

Loyal to the Business

http://consumerist.com/2005/12/snack-nails-egregious-self-inflicted-product-placement.html

Okay this makes me smile, I've seen sports team logos on nails why not of your favorite brand of chips???

For the World Series in 2000, one Yankee fanatic had her nails done for 8 hours, the nail tech painted the New York Yankees logo on all 10 of her finger nails, done the old fashion way: nail polish; this was before the Minx craze people. The cost about $80??? Her nails look great, I couldn't find the 2000 Yankees World Series archives pictures of the Yankee fanatic nails, but I did find this picture:

This picture isn't the New York Yankee's nail logo I was speaking about but this lady is a fanatic. 

nydailynews.com

Top 12 Tips: Maintaining a Healthy Weight {Updated February 12, 2011}

UPDATED FEBRUARY 12, 2011

If you are trying to maintain a healthy weight or are trying to lose weight these tips are worth looking into: These tips below really helps me keep my weight and body measurements at a stable number. I

DISCLAIMER ****Always consult your doctor before starting any weight loss program, diet, tips, idea or notion****

 Instead of getting on a scale daily; measure your waist:

Why is your waist is a important health factor? 

Excerpt from:
http://www.doctoroz.com/know-your-5-videos/dr-ozs-know-your-5-lifesaving-numbers-you-need-know 

"A waist size over 35 inches in women and over 40 inches in men greatly increases the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease and more.
 
The ideal waist size for women is 32 ½ inches and 35 inches for men. Click here to learn your body mass index, or BMI, to see how your waist size can impact your overall health."

greenbabyguide.com

1. Exercise before Breakfast (Workout before your first meal of the day)

Yes you'll have to get up early and exercise before your first meal (like before eating breakfast). A shake made of bananas, oatmeal or  A thirty minute exercise routine will increase your metabolism for the entire day, not only that but you will see faster results using this method.! 

 Picture: Mayoclinic.com

2. Invest in a Stability (Exercise Ball) (Theses Exercise Balls go by many names)
 Using a stability ball instead of doing regular floor crunches or sit-ups is helpful to anyone who despises floor crunches or people with back problems. Stability balls burns more fat and can also shape your waist with faster results! There not only for your mid-section you can also do other exercise once you are strong enough and confident exercise includes: push-ups, squats, and more; it's a great overall body toner.



Stability (Exercise Balls) are great for crunches, side crunches, sit-ups if you have more confidence and skills using your stability ball for push-ups, squats, yoga and more.

Danskin's Core Ball Plus (starts at $35) this exercise ball has a bottom ring which givesyou stability while working your core. This is really good for anyone who wants added security: This ball with ring will not move so you can focus on your workout without having to secure a moving ball.

 Bosu ball you see them at your gym, there a little more expensive, but these balls are great for many workout routines.You can do Cardio, Crunches, Push-Ups on the bosu ball








3. Eat Healthy Fats: Check out these websites for more info: 
http://www.doctoroz.com/videos/know-your-omega-fatty-acids-pt-1
http://livewellnetwork.com/Custom-Fit/episodes/Workout-Mistakes/7722446
http://livewellnetwork.com/Custom-Fit/episodes/Omegas-101/7788169

The two essential fatty acids the human body cannot produce are  omega-3 fatty acid and omega-6 fatty acid, they're important for blood pressure regulation,brain development, and strong immune system functions.

Healthy fats that comes from omega-3,6,9 fatty acids Food or Vitamin Sources; when choosing supplements (vitamins) always check the nutrition label; you'll need at least 600 mgs of DHA and EPA FYI:  DHA is the most important when choosing a vitamin supplement most diets get enough amounts of EPA all ready. Choose a pure brand using cold water fish that has no additives.

Sources of Omega 3's In Foods


Dark Green Leafy Veggies: Broccoli, Collard Greens, Kale, Spinach 

Fish: Salmon and Tuna (naming two) are great just remember in moderation these fish may have mercury, but eating twice a week is not harmful.

Whole Grains: Barley, Brown Rice, Chia Seeds, Whole Grain Breads, Quinoa



Nuts: Brazil Nuts, Walnuts

Omega-6 fatty acids can come from: Olive Oil, Wheat Germ, and many Raw Nuts like Pumpkin Seeds. Remember enjoy a handful of raw, unsalted nuts nuts and seeds are filling and satisfying—and healthful.

Omega-9's can come from Avocados, Raw unsalted Nuts:  Almonds, Cashews,Walnuts to name a few.

Other Healthy Fats (Oils) 

Flax Seed Oil (Note flax seed oil is a form of omega 3 fatty acid, taking too much can cancel out the effects of other other omega 3's which are beneficial to your body: so follow recommended amounts).

Coconut Oil is also a healthy fat that the body can turn into a fat blocker this helps to keep excess weight off and maintain a healthier body

1 spoonful of coconut oil keeps your metabolism high and even burns fat. Make sure you purchase organic cold press coconut oil (Purest form).

Cooked Qunioa

 4. Stick With Healthy Carbs

You can eat Carbohydrates! Bread, Grains, and Pastas: Switch to Whole grain sources like Breads (Whole Grain): Breads where to can actually seed the grains and nuts.










The package should say Whole Grain, not whole wheat, you want the nutrition that comes from the whole grain, not part of the grain which is what Whole Wheat bread is made from part of the grain that has little nutrients.

Skip White Rice and choose  


Whole Grains like: Brown Rice, Barley, and Qunioa & Whole Wheat pastas are high in fiber.

Labelle'scusine.com

 5. Choose Fruits with Less Sugar: The Berries that Slim You Down: Fruits are wonderful in general, but if you want to stick with less sugar and high antioxidants choose Blue Berries, Cherries, Raspberries, and Strawberries. All have antioxidants which slows down aging and clears your body of toxins to name a few benefits! 

Miraclefatburingfoods.com

6. Beans (Delicious Beans)

Whether you slow cook them or stove top simmer, beans are chock full of healthy!

Examples of beans: ( kidney, black, navy, pinto, chickpeas (garbanzo beans), soybeans, dried peas and lentils

Benefits of a diet that includes beans at least once a week: Eating beans slows down aging, are full of protein (which keeps you full and satisfied longer), keeps blood sugar stable, and is an anti-inflammatory food; perfect meal for working out helps with muscle soreness. 

7. Full body Movements http://exercise.about.com/cs/exbeginners/l/blbegstrength.htm

Working your whole body instead of sections (Stomach: Crunches, Arm: Bicep Curls), creates full body weight loss, and improves not only flexibility but increases circulation which helps your  improve stamina you'll be able to workout easier and exercise longer (Endurance).

Total Body Movements that works both top and bottom Examples: Yoga, Lunges Squats ETC
Pictures: Essence.com

Side Lunge & Press

Sitting Bridge

Squat & Curl

8. Circuit Training (Interval Training)

Fitsugar.com

Switch it up, a good exercise routine have different exercises for each day; your workouts never gets boring and your body doesn't get use to the same  routine so your doesn't hit a long plateau.

If you are looking to maintain a healthy weight, increase your metabolism, or push past a plateau while toning your body; studies shows exercise routines that included both Cardio Exercises  and

Weight Training helps burn more fat than cardio alone. Weight training can maintain muscle mass and/or increase muscles mass which burns fat while keeping your whole body tone and tight.

Cardio Exercises:
Biking, Dancing, Jogging, Swimming, Walking, Working out on a Machine Stairs IE: Stepper or Elliptical trainer

Weight Training Exercises (Strength/Resistance Training):

Lifting Weights, Resistance Bands,  ETC

What is Strength Training/Resistance Training whats the difference??

strengthtrainingsite.com

Strength training uses resistance like free weights, weight machines, resistance bands, even a person's own weight to build muscles and strength. Strength Training is resistance training.

Resistance Bands: fitsugar.com

NOTE: Improper form causes strain and can cause damage to your muscles while lifting weights or using resistance bands; if something doesn't feel right, you start to cramp up or you feel pain you should stop; before you begin again check with your doctor about your exercise routine also talk to a fitness expert about form when using weights and/or resistance bands.

www.eastbaytrainer.com

Ladies don't be afraid of gaining muscles you need muscles for:

1. Maintain a healthy weight (muscles burn fat)
2. Fight Osteoporosis (Bone Loss) Women start to lose bone mass as early as 30 and continue to lose every year after unless you are strength/weight training.
3. Increases circulation which is great for your overall health

NOTE: Bicycling and swimming are great for the heart but will not make the bones denser; weight lifting (strengthens training) strengthen muscles.

You don't have to worry about using weights in your exercise routines; there's only so much muscles a woman's body can gain, the only way you'll look like a body builder is by eating a specific regimen. A body builder's diet is some what intense and needs specific foods at certain hours to maintain all those bulky muscles. If you aren't eating this way which 99% of women are NOT you will not gain heavy muscle.

When starting a weight training regimen it is important not to over do it; keep your strength training (resistance workouts), to 3 day a week maximum, this will keep your muscles toned but without creating over exhaustion or cause damage to your muscles. 

NOTE: If you have started a workout similar to the sample Workout below and feel too much cramping or soreness, please do not continue until you talk to your doctor and also fitness expert on: dietary factors, your current health and, proper form. Also be sure to mention the exact exercises you have incorporated into you lifestyle.

EXAMPLE: Strength/Resistance Training Workout 

Great website for beginners: http://bodyforlife.com/library/exercise/weight-training

An example of a weight training schedule is: 3 days of strength training/lifting: 

Remember 8-12 reps for each exercise the link above give a clear schedule of Weight Training (click the link above for more understanding.

Upper Body for Day 1

Lower Body Day 2

Upper Body for Day 3

The other two days should be of aerobic, anaerobic or cardio exercise, the last two days of the week should be for REST. Then Repeat the schedule

Start out with Low weights (2,4,5,6, 7, 8,9, and 10's) Barbells and work your way to heavier sets.

Tip: If you have a weaker upper body or heavy arms you can tired out before getting a good workout in, stick with low weights like 2, 3,4, and 5's when your arms get stronger you can then switch to a heavier set of dumbbells.

Resistance Bands comes in different colors to represent the difficulty  to see the what types of bands are helpful for beginners first read/research before you purchase any resistance bands

1. Research on different types of bands to fit your needs
2. Talk to fitness and gym coaches
3. Also talk to knowledgeable fitness store workers.

Do not over do weight training or resistance training which can cause serious harm to your muscles.

WebMD.com

9. Don't Forget Water: If your not big on drinking water, then start drinking it now. Your body cannot metabolize fat (break it down to use for energy), if you are skipping water.

When you do not drink water your body holds on to more fat and more toxins; water is needed to hydrate organs, increase circulation, also flush out excess toxins. When your body is dehydrated it creates the development of aging and inflammatory.

Drink: At least eight glasses of water every day

Skip: Artificial Beverages, Drinks, and Juices:

If you can't go without sweet drinks go with 100% fruit juices; mix half juice and half water.

Look for Juices that contains 100% fruit juice from a single juice or a juice blend.

Note: Look for Fresh Juice; Juice that is not frozen, pasteurized (pasteurization kills many nutrients in the juice) or processed.

Skip "Fruit Drinks" Any beverage that says on the label:

Juice Cocktail, Ade, Drink Beverage

Many time these beverages contains only 5-10% of fruit juice the rest is loaded with artificial sugars and coloring like red-40 ETC.

Skip Carbonated Beverages: Seltzer, Sodas, and Tonics anything that fizzes just say no.

Dave Chappelle "Purple Stuff"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NuTjQLfU6Gk&feature=related

grangercattleco.com

10. Go Lean with Meats: If you love meat but are looking to slim down choose lean cuts instead, check the back of the nutrition and make sure the label says lean or extra lean (no broth added are best).


How to Choose Lean Meats
http://www.ehow.com/list_5831089_list-lean-cuts-meat.html 

11. Stress: If you're under constant your body may be producing hormones like Cortisol
 this hormone causes increase appetite causing a person to over eat and gain extra fat around the abdominal area, which is extremely unhealthy.

Grehlin is a another hormone that your body produces naturally and causes you to want to constantly want to eat.

Always plan your meal to make sure you know what choices you'll have: Never go 3-4 hours with out a snack; eating a small healthy snack every 2-3 hour will help to curb your appetite and reduce over-eating; never wait until until your extremely hungry this causes over-eating and to eat whatever is convenient (unhealthy junk foods).

12. Sleep: It's important not to skip on sleep your body needs to recharge and rest. If you are eating right, exercising daily but still not losing weight or have gained weight; you may not be getting adequate sleep: 6 to 8 hours of sleep is recommended, taking small naps will not replace a full six to eight hours of uninterrupted sleep.

Note: Gaining or Losing Weight is a sign from your body please go to a doctor to make sure it's nothing serious.

Make sure to take steps to ensure your room is Sleep Friendly:

Excerpt from: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/sleep/HQ01387

1. Make your room cool, dark, quiet, and comfortable: turn off an fans this can disturb your sleep and dry out your mouth which can wake you up.
2. Go to bed when your tired, make sure to turn off any direct lights in the room.
3. Choose a comfortable bed and bedding
4. Skip Alcohol, Coffee, Chocolate (Sweets), High Fat Foods, Milk and Milk products, and Nicotine: these either keep you up at night, or disturb your sleep: Alcohol re-awakes you in the middle of the night.
5. Go to bed the same night, every night: Make it a routine to go to bed at a sensible hour every night your body will get use to this schedule.
6. Don't drink large amounts of water before bed

Those are my top 12 tips on maintaining or losing weight

Remember these are just tips, do your own research, talk to a doctor and health physician, Dietitian then put together a regimen that fits your lifestyle. 

Helpful Links:

 

Mayoclinic.com

bodyforlife.com

http://www.doctoroz.com/

webmd.com

Read Weight Loss Cutting and Burning.....

http://www.oprah.com/health/Weight-Loss-Cutting-and-Burning-Half-Your-Daily-Calories

Read 10 Common Workout Mistakes on Oprah.com

http://www.oprah.com/health/10-Common-Workout-Mistakes-Andrea-Metcalf/1

Read Rework Your Workout

http://www.oprah.com/health/Rework-Your-Workout

Read Not Losing Weight???

http://www.oprah.com/health/Not-Losing-Weight-3-Possible-Explanations

DISCLAIMER

***Remember to talk to your doctor before starting any fitness (Workout) Program or Diet Regimen***