What You Should Know About Transition

~PLEASE EXCUSE THE UGLY STILL SHOT~
Weather Anchor Mama

Would You Let Your Kids Model?

I'd be lying if I said that I wouldn't want Princess to model.  People always say she's a natural in front of the camera.  They say she beautiful.  I certainly have to agree.  But, being a kid model ain't all that it's cracked up to be.

As a former model, I was fortunate to have graced the pages of various magazines.  I was no Naomi Campbell, but I did ok.  I'll get into it more some day.  The point is that even though I had a blast and met some peeps, it wasn't all glitz and glamour.  There is a down side, as you may know.  I think being a kid model is no different.  

I wasn't a child model, but I did come across them quite often at commercial auditions in New York City.  I remember seeing parents (mostly mommies) with their kids waiting to be called.  These tykes didn't seem like kids.  It's like they were always on.  They did everything on cue and just didn't appear natural.  Do I want my little Princess to be like that?  As she would say, "No way!"

Don't get me wrong - if she has a chance to do a major ad campaign, we're in!  I can't font, I've entered her in a bunch of contests.  She's also done some boutique modeling, which involved taking pics of merchandise in exchange for goodies.  Basically if a boutique was interested in having her model their line, I'll take snap shots of her wearing them and we get to keep the products.  That's the extent of her modeling career.  I refuse to put her through cattle calls.  Most of the parents I'd run into at castings told me that they were SAHM's.  Schlepping their kids to and from castings worked for them, but it ain't gonna work for me.  What happens when she gets turned down for a gig and gets discouraged?  What about if she throws a tantrum and doesn't want to perform?  I just couldn't imagine putting her through all that at such a young age, not to mention what I'd have to go through.  I'd probably have to quit my job.  Being a model means having drop everything at a moments notice for a casting (cattle) call, audition, or gig.  It was exhausting for me-just think of a kid having to that!

  If baby company shows an interest in booking my baby girl, it's all good.  We're down!  But for now, we'll keep holding our own little photo shoots and avoid cattle calls.

Would you allow your kids to model?

Weather Anchor Mama

My Attempt at Trying Something New

It's been a pretty gloomy week overall.  I've been messing around with my DSLR camera, and snapped these pics in manual setting under cloudy skies.  I've never taken a photography class.  But, I've been experimenting and applying everything I've learned from photographer friends as well as various websites.  Please let me know what ya think?  Tips and questions are always welcome!

Have you tried anything new lately?

Weather Anchor Mama

My True Indian Hair Big Reveal!

Don't adjust your screens!!! Just building the anticipation of my big reveal.  Check out my new look!

One Thing I Love About My Baby

I love spending time with Princess.  We laugh, we play, we have fun!  One of the things I love is her determination.  I took a few shots the other day of my baby girl trying to blow bubbles.  She didn't blow not one, but she kept trying.  She never gave up!  That's my girl! 

What do you love about your kiddo?

Weather Anchor Mama

Here's What Know About Wigs So Far

Before this past weekend, the only thing I knew about wigs was human and synthetic.  After meeting with Karen Mitchell, the owner of True Indian Hair, I found out more.

I'm sure there's a lot more to learn.  If you got anymore tips, send them my way.  I  need all the help I can get.

Weather Anchor Mama

My True Indian Hair Do

I've been toying with the idea of wiggin' it for a while.  As I continue on my natural journey, I know styling will become a challenge.  I've already written about some of my hair issues, and it's only been three months post relaxer.  I have a long way to go before my hair is completely natural.  So, I've been researching protective styling options.  This weekend I finally made the decision to go in for a wig fitting.

A friend from work told me about True Indian Hair .  I met with the owner, Karen Mitchell, for a consultation.  I know absolutely nothing about how to choose the right wig, and Ms. Mitchell put me right at ease.  The first thing I noticed was her sweet demeanor.  She certainly has a knack for making people feel comfortable, and also knows her stuff.  Ms. Mitchell recommended different options, and gave me tips on how to style my new do.  She said that each wig should last six months.  But based on the soft texture, I wouldn't be surprised if it lasts much longer than that.

Since I'll be transitioning, a wig will make things easier.  I won't have to choose between working out and keeping my hair TV ready.  As you know, my job doesn't offer much flexibility when it comes to my hair.  The plan is to wig it as I transition.

Here are some wigs I tried on.  Which one do you like best?  Keep in mind that I'll be cutting and styling the wig similar to the way I normally wear my hair.  So far, my hubby likes the first one the best.  Please tell me your pick in the comments section below.

Stay tuned later this week to see the final look.

Weather Anchor Mama

Shea Moisture Review

I came across Shea Moisture and had to give it a try.  Check out my thoughts on this product line.



Weather Anchor Mama

 

Vegas Without Princess

I thought this day would never come!  After months of preparation, my hubby and I were able to head to Vegas without Princess.  I knew it would be tough.  I went through so many emotions leading up to our departure.  I was super happy to be finally getting away.  There was a lot going on with work, and I felt like it was time for a break.  But, I was also feeling guilt, anxiety, and sadness.  All these emotions running through me made leaving so difficult.

As I mentioned in my Getaway Dilemma post, I had to put a plan into motion before our trip to make transitioning easier.  It included:


1.  Rather than spend half the night in her bed, I'll work my way back into mine full time. 
Working my way back into my own bed full time didn't quite work out the way I thought it would. Every time I'd get up to leave, Princess would wrap her arms around my neck. She'd do this in her sleep!

2.  She'll be spending more time at Grandma's house on the weekends.

Grandma usually picks her up from daycare everyday.  Spending more time with her on the weekends made things a lot easier.  

3.  Princess has never spent the night anywhere else, but it's time to give that a try too.  I'll also have her spend a few nights at Grandma's.

The hubs and I got some baby free time.  I'd pack her overnight bag and send her off to grandmas for the night.  She cried nonstop the first time, but eventually got over it.

4.  We'll have all of her favorite snacks, toys, and other essentials handy.  It's not exactly the same as our home, but it'll be close enough.

Princess had all her toys handy at Grandma's.  But, being able to watch her shows was a saving grace.  Thanks goodness for Nick Jr.

5.  She's been doing ok with regular milk.  Even though it won't be the same as laying next to mommy, I'll pump a few bottles in case of an emergency. 

Princess has always been a bit fickled when it comes to drinking regular milk.  I went back to pumping temporarily.  Having an emergency stash of breast milk would be key in getting Princess to sleep through the night.

6.  Face time!  Since we won't be there in the flesh, at least we can't see and chat via phone!

We took advantage of facetime during her overnight trips at grandma.  Princess had a tough time being away from mommy and daddy in the beginning.  But, we got through it with the help of our iphones.

As you can tell, I had all my ducks in a row.  I was super organized and prepared.  But, I wasn't prepared for how I'd feel.  I took an extra day off to pack and spend a little more time with Princess.  I explained to her that she'll be spending some time with grandma and auntie, as I'd always done for her weekend visits.  That's when I started feeling sad.  It was Mothers Day weekend and I'd be spending it without my baby.  I thought I was about to lose it, but I kept my composure.  My hubby kept saying she'll be fine.  I knew she'll be fine.  I was just having a little separation anxiety.  Spending the night away from her was a breeze.  It was just hard to imagine being away from her for four days and three nights.  


My mom also kept assuring me that Princess would be in good hands.  "I know she'll be be in good hands," I'd say.  For the record, it's not that I was worried about her safety.  I knew that my baby girl would be ok.  You have to understand that I haven't never been away from her for so long.  

We got everything packed, loaded, and we were off to our adventure.  Princess was safely at Grandma's and we were on our way to Sin City.  It was a pretty long flight and the time change made it feel even longer.  But, it was worth it.  This place more than exceed our expectations.  

By the time we'd gotten there, I'd gotten over my anxiety about leaving Princess behind.  The feeling briefly came back once I saw kids of all ages there.  My hubby quickly put things into perspective when he asked, 
"Would we have been able to see this show with her?"


He was right.  There was  no way we would have been able to hit up the casinos, and see the shows.  The time change alone would have been crazy.  We knew we made the right decision.  I saw so many tots around her age, and wondered how in the world the parents were able to fully enjoy Vegas with littles one around.  Being the inquisitive person I am, I asked.  


As I was getting ready to leave the spa, I saw a young lady scheduling an appointment.  She had her one year old son in tow.  I didn't want to just blurt out the question, so I started out by complimenting how adorable he was to break the ice.  Then I asked,


"How has your stay been so far?" I asked.
"Fine," she said.
"How are you able to enjoy Vegas with a baby?" I asked
When she didn't respond right away I added, "We have a one year old too, and thought of taking her.  But, we weren't sure if Vegas was kid friendly place."
The then she replied, "My mom is here with us.  So, she stays with him while we go out."


Talking to this lady confirmed once again that we made the right decision.  I would feel bad having my mom stay in the hotel with Princess.  I think it is possible to bring kids along.  But, you'd have to taylor your trip to make it a bit more kid friendly.  Even though there were some things I know Princess would enjoy, I still felt she was way too young to bring on this trip.  In the end, my hubby and I were able to enjoy some much needed alone time.  Princess has always been a ball of fun, and full of energy.  But, this wasn't the place for her.


We checked in with my mom every day to make sure every thing was ok.  Princess got a chance to hang out with Grandma, Aunt Tiff, Auntie Sophia, Uncle Steve, and her cousins.  I could tell she had a blast.  


This turned out to be the best Mothers Day ever, even though I spent it without her.  We made up for it, when we got back.


Have you ever went on vacation without your kids?


Weather Anchor Mama

Playing Hooky

After a weekend away from Princess, we enjoyed some family time.  My hubby took an extra day and brought her to the park.  He sent me these while I was at work.

If I didn't know better, I'd think he's rubbing it in my face.  

A Mothers Day Weekend in Vegas

Who would have thought that I'd be selected- out of gosh knows how many people- to win Spa Week's Escape to Vdara Giveaway!  All I did was put my name in a jar at a Spa Week event. Being the skeptic that I am I asked the lady manning the booth,

 "Is this for real?  Does anyone ever win?"
 "Yes.  You never know.  It doesn't hurt to try," she responded.

What the heck? She was right. I might as well give it a shot. Besides, it didn't cost me a dime to throw my name in the hat among hundreds, if not thousands of people that night. Fast forward two weeks later and I get a call from some lady claiming that I won a trip to Vegas.  I chalked it up to one of the many bogus calls I usually get about winning a cruise some where.  I almost hung up the phone.  But, then she said something that triggered a memory from that night.

"Yeah right.  How much does it cost?" I asked.
"Nothing! You won! I remember you. I was the one who took all your info at Spa Week," she said.

It took a little bit more convincing, but I eventually realized that this thing was legit.  My skepticism grew into pure excitement.  I couldn't wait to tell my hubby.  I knew that he wouldn't be excited  about the idea of going to a spa.  The only time he's ever had a message was on our honeymoon.  He said that would be the last one he'd ever get.

But, this is Vegas baby!  Spa or no spa, he was totally down for this vacation.  The major hurtle we had to overcome was deciding whether or not to bring Princess along.  We ultimately chose to make this a baby-free vacation.  I can't say it was easy to leave her behind, but I'll chat more about that in a later post.

I had up to a year to fulfill the prize which included a three night stay in a penthouse suite, a spa and salon credit, a dining voucher, and limousine transportation to and from the hotel.  We booked our spa retreat for Mothers Day weekend which worked out perfectly.

I've never been to Vegas before.  But when I think of Sin City, a scene from The Hangover comes to mind.  Thoughts of a bunch of guys at a bachelor party getting wasted, followed by a bunch of other crazy events.  Basically, I was totally clueless and didn't know what to expect.  As it turns out, Vegas is a beautiful city with so much more to offer than just casinos and booze.  Check out the scenery from our penthouse suite.

If you think the view outside is cool, check out the view inside.

It was our first time in Vegas and staying in a penthouse suite was also a first for us. This alone would have been enough. But, there was so much more to enjoy. The first thing on the agenda after checking in was to grab a bite to eat, and hit up the casinos. Being novice gamblers, we played it smart and went over to the slot machines.  I did pretty well in the beginning.  But I should have walked away when I was up.  I ended up losing my money.

 I had my spa appointment the next morning and we were famished from a long day of traveling. So, we made it an early night.

Our stay at this point was absolutely amazing.  But, visiting Vdara Spa and Salon completely took my breath away.  I was scheduled to have a message, facial, and brow wax.  I also got a chance to enjoy the other great amenities the spa had to offer.  I rotated between the stream room, sauna, jacuzzi, and relaxation room the entire day.  In fact, I loved it so much that I return the following day for another round.  I even talked my hubby into coming along.  They don't normally allow picture taking.  But, my tour guide said that it was ok to snap these pics.

From gambling to pampering, the fun didn't stop there.  We got a chance to see "O" Cirque du Soleil, and a variety show.  We weren't allowed to take pics during the show.  My hubby snapped this one after leaving one of the performances.

We also spent some time touring the neighboring hotels, and the fabulous Vegas strip.

When it came to satisfying our pallets, there were tons of different restaurants to choose from.  Being the foodie that I am, I wanted to try different cuisines.  The Japanese restaurant, Blossom, was definitely one of our favorites.

Our first trip to Vegas was a blast!  We were able to fit a lot of activities in during our three night stay.  We'd definitely love to return, and explore more of what Sin City has to offer.

Thank goodness I put my name in that jar at Spa Week, and I thank my lucky stars for not hanging up the phone.

Big up to Vdara Spa and Salon for sponsoring our hotel stay.  A special shout out goes out to Spa Week for hosting the giveaway.

Weather Anchor Mama

True Friends Are Hard to Find

It was so hard for me to make friends growing up.  Believe it or not, it still is.  I always felt different from everyone else.  Moving to the U.S. from the islands wasn't easy.  I had a thick accent and the only thing I knew about the American culture was what I saw on TV.  Now that I'm grown, I've outgrown my insecurities.  I find it much easier to meet new people.  But, it's still tough to make friends.  Let's face it, not everyone is genuine.  You have those who are opportunists.  You have those who become conditional or fair-weather friends.  I'm talking about the kind of people who are there when things are great.  But, the minute you fall on hard times, they bounce.  Then you have the fakers.  The ones who seem like they're your friends, but they end up talking about you behind your back.  They may even try to rip you off.

These are the kinds of people I'll have to teach Princess to stay away from.  Like Oprah says, "Listen to your inner voice."  If you get the feeling someone isn't genuine or has bad intentions, chances are you're absolutely right.

Princess is fortunate to have friends of her own.   Here she is with her bestie, Katie.

I love seeing them play together.  I know they're just tots.  But, I can already tell that this little girl is a true friend.  There are days Princess cries when I drop her off at daycare.  Katie would try to soothe her by giving her hugs and holding hands.  It's so cute to watch.  But, it makes feel great knowing that she has a buddy who wants to see her happy.  As she gets older, I can only hope that she chooses true friends.  Clearly, she already has.

Do you teach your kids about true friendship?

Weather Anchor Mama

Reminiscing About My Shake-N-Go Modeling Days

I get a call from my mom the other day.  She tells me that she's been going through my old stuff and finds this booklet.

It's a hair catalogue from back in my modeling days.  The timing couldn't be better.  Since making my special announcement, I've been checking out wig options.  According to many, protective styling is a great way to transition from relaxer to natural.  Rockin' a wig offers just that.  It would give my hair a much needed break from the heat and constant combing.  Not to mention, it would cut my prep time in half.

These aren't exactly my style, but it does give me an idea of what would fit my face.  I must say, I had a great laugh!  I remember my mom telling me that these wigs are way too mature.  Now I realize that she's absolutely right.  I'm not into short dos, I really like this one pictured above.

The search doesn't stop here.  I'll be combing through magazines to find the right one.

How do you feel about wearing a wig?