The No 'Poo 'Do

After reading some lovely posts from Pinterest (sorry, can't locate the original pin/blog) I have decided to give the "No 'Poo Method" a whirl.  This doesn't mean that I'm going on a strictly liquid diet.  I have decided to give up shampoo.  Cold turkey.

Here's the reason why I decided to give up 'Poo (I love saying that).  I need to wash my hair every single day, or it will get greasy pretty fast.  If I wash it in the morning before work (6am), I usually have to heavily style it or pile on the dry shampoo for a night out.  I always envied my blonde-haired friends who could skip washes and still have flawless hair.  I decided that I wanted to try this method based on the simple fact that those who have given up shampoo only have to actually wash a few times a week.  Some of the bloggers chose this method for reasons such as being thrifty, or it's environmentally friendly.  As much as I would like to claim I'm doing my part to help the environment, I am too much of a culprit in other areas.  It's simply an added bonus to save a few bucks and mother nature as well.

So let's get to it!  I ended up starting this on a workday, which didn't leave me much time to experiment, measure, or stare in the mirror to notice a difference.

"Shampoo" Ingredients:

2 tablespoons baking soda

1 cup water

Squeeze bottle

"Conditioner" Ingredients:

2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar

1 cup water

Spray bottle


Most blogs I read say to use two tablespoons baking soda and one cup water.  Due to lack of time, I just threw some water in.  Also, I used a little bit more baking soda anticipating I would need more since my hair gets so greasy.  I used an "old fashioned" ketchup bottle for my "shampoo" mixture.  After adding the baking soda and filling it a little under halfway with water, I shook up the bottle to mix it up.  In hindsight, I probably should have stirred this, but I was in a hurry.

Since the baking soda is for your roots only, the squeeze bottle worked wonders to put the mixture right on my scalp.  The baking soda is said to clear away any build-up from the products we use.  I read that the mixture would get "slimy" feeling, a texture close to shampoo, but I didn't experience that.  The only time it was slimy was when it was on my face and in my hands.  It was gritty in my hair and I immediately regretted what I was doing.  I didn't resort to shampoo though, I kept going.  I massaged the baking soda mixture through my scalp, then rinsed it thoroughly.  

A modification I made was to completely skip the vinegar "conditioner".  I have a strict, almost OCD, shower routine and the thought of rinsing my hair after I've washed my body gives me chills.  Additionally, I didn't want to have to douse my hair with perfume to mask the vinegar scent.  So I cheated and used regular conditioner.  I plan on either making a vinegar mixture with coconut oil, or simply switching to a leave-in conditioner in the future.

Some blogs claimed that hair was a little "straw-like" and hard to comb through.  In the shower, my hair did not feel soft or manageable.  Again, I regretted going through with this on a workday.  Once I took a wide toothed comb through my hair and began blow-drying it, I noticed the difference.  My hair was very soft and light.  I thought to myself, "is this what healthy hair feels like?", as I ran my fingers through it over, and over again.

Pleasantly surprised is how I would explain my reaction.  My hair did not feel "weighed down" or oily as it usually did around 5pm every evening.  It was easy to style as well!

This is day 2 of "No 'Poo" and I was too scared to skip a wash, so again I used the baking soda mixture (no vinegar) paying even less attention to measurements.  I received the same results.  I'm going to slowly ween myself off washes and report back with the results!

looks normal right???

Have you tried the "No 'Poo 'Do"? Will you try it now?  Let me know what you think!

Summertime Soundtracks

Windows down, radio up.  These are just as synonymous with the warm summertime air as barbecuing and swimming.  When the seasons change, other than updating my wardrobe, the first thing I do is create a new playlist.  As you found out by my previous post, I love discovering new music.  I also love to push my own music choices on my friends... So here is a Summer dose of that!

I want to preface this recommendation by saying that when I first was a fan of Rihanna's "Pon De Replay" (come Mr. DJ some Pon De Replay...) I proclaimed that she was going to be dubbed a One-Hit-Wonder.  Well, we know how that ended up.  I'll admit it, I was wrong.  This is something that I also thought whenever I first heard the catchy/kitschy tune of "Thrift Shop".  The duo of Macklemore and Ryan Lewis created a song about passing up on expensive duds to the tune of horns with a deep-voiced chorus by Wanz.  This song has everybody "popping tags", whatever that means.  The Heist is SO much more than expected.  After years of grinding it out in the local Seattle hip-hop scene, Ben Haggerty aka Macklemore, teamed up with DJ/Producer Ryan Lewis in 2010 in a well-known sample of Red Hot Chili Peppers' Otherside.  After generating quite the hype and buzz for themselves through social media, their sophomore release, The Heist debuted at number two on the Billboard 200.  Quite the comeback I'd say!

Every topic from Drug abuse and battles with sobriety to the nostalgic feeling of playing ball with your friends in the summertime.  If you solely base this album off it's leading single "Thrift Shop", you will be terribly mistaken.  Right now, their 3rd single "Same Love" battles the topic of same-sex marriage, and hits it hard.  This is a topic that isn't familiar to the hip-hop community, but widely discussed.  Right now this duo holds the #2,  #44, and #63 songs on the iTunes' singles' chart.  They hold #1, #4, and #10 on the Hip-Hop chart. This duo has really made their mark on the hip-hop genre.  Ryan Lewis' producing skills are amazing on this album, creating such great tunes as a backdrop to Macklemore's fun, though provoking, and relate-able lyrics. Ryan also has his chance to shine with an instrumental "BomBom (feat. The Teaching)".

What I like about their sound:  There is a song/beat/melody for every mood.  Fun to dark to though-provoking.
Worth the charge to my card?:  150%
Favorite song on the album, other than current radio hits: "I used to drink away my paycheck, celebrate the mistakes I hadn't made yet" A Wake (feat. Evan Roman), Ten Thousand Hours about putting in so much time before the world sees you as successful, Thin Line some love stories drag on long after they are really over.

This album I recommend may seem a little out of the ordinary for you.  How I came across the album "Nesliving, Vol.3 - Voglio di +" is by surfing the international charts on iTunes.  I wanted to revive my knowledge of Italian and thought, what better way than through music?  After some intense googling, YouTube watching, and lots of Google Translate, I came across the duo Nesli.

Nesli, is made up of brothers, Francesco and Fabrizio, who both had successful underground solo ventures.  Then they decided to combine and create an Italian hip-hop-mind-blowing experience.  Nesly, the previous stage name of Francesco, was influenced by a producer who directed him to rap over live instruments for a new sound.  The response was numerous successful mix-tape-style singles. It was for his second solo project "The Remedy Tape, Vol. 1" that Nesly turned to his older brother for help and collaboration.  It was then that the brothers decided to go by "Nesli" and the rest is history.

I have tried to think of an American equivalent of this duo to describe their style to my friends.  They do rap in Italian, but they also sing and the topics aren't as "street tough" as say an Eminem album.  Their songs (after rough translation) are about being in love, losing love, and enjoying life in general.  One of my favorite songs off this album is "Partiro", which roughly translates to "I will leave".   The tone of the song is sort of dark.  It's about leaving someone behind and not looking back.  Turning a new leaf.  The composition of this song is upbeat and great to listen to.

What I like about their sound:  They are Italian rappers!  They could be talking about vacuum cleaners and I would be put into a trance.  Plus, the best way to learn a second language is through music!

Worth the charge to my card?:  I find myself singing in Italian, and it was quite the musical discovery.  No international charges added, although sort of difficult to navigate through iTunes.

Favorite song on the album, other than current radio hits: I've already discussed this, but I also love E Una Vita (it's one life), Se Puoi (If you can), and Respiro (I breathe, or give me breath)

If you are a lucky son of a gun who gets to see Kenny Chesney on tour this summer (my boyfriend has to be in a wedding when he comes to Pittsburgh >:o| ) you will also get a chance to see Kacey Musgraves.  She happens to be one of the opening acts for the No Shoes Nation tour.

Kacey's first single hit the airwaves late last year, with Merry-Go-Round.  A song about the cycle of generations in a small town.  This isn't her first time at writing though.  Kacey has been writing and singing before she was on this earth for a decade.  Her "big break" came when she was a contestant on the 2007 season of Nashville Star.  The exposure got some of her penned lyrics to the voices of Martina McBride, Miranda Lambert, and even on the new NBC show Nashville.

Same Trailer, Different Park seems to boast the typical country lifestyle.  I think you'd be surprised to what this album has to offer.  Now don't get me wrong, there is plenty of local-diner-gossip themed songs, but also about love, love lost, and even tackles same-sex marriages, following in Same Love's footsteps of genre barriers.  Although, a singer-songwriter, Taylor Swift she is not! (Total compliment btw.)  Softly spoken words, and beautifully written lyrics.  Country through and through, but don't turn your nose if you aren't a country fan.  From the trailer park to park ave, anyone can get into this album.

What I like about her sound: Relate-able lyrics against soft melodies, yet fun and upbeat also.  True country spirit.

Worth the charge to my card?: This album was a risk, but I'm so glad that I was able to discover her sound!

Favorite song on the album, other than current radio hits: Blowin' smoke (probably another single soon), Follow Your Arrow You're damned if you do and you're damned if you don't! Step Off self-explanatory.

Finally, I'd like to mention some singles that I believe everyone should check out, in addition to these albums.

Timeflies - I Choose You

Robin Thicke - Blurred Lines (feat. T.I. and Pharrell) This is such a FUN & sexy tune!! (and video)

Zedd - Clarity (feat. Foxes)  As heard on Glee's regional's finale episode

*Info from iTunes artist page.

Is "undateable" a word? it is now.

I've been in 3 long-term relationships, and I don't know why.  I'm not that great of a girlfriend.  In fact, I have compiled a list of 8 reasons why someone wouldn't want to date me, but I'm a cool person, so I added 2 reasons why they would

1.  Compromise is not a thing.

Yada, yada, "the key to a good relationship is compromise".  Sure that sounds all fine and dandy, but listen, if we are going to a movie, we aren't being cheap-o's and skipping the 3-D version.  NOR are we going to pay $12 to see appendages flying through the air in a film that's all gore and no plot.  I don't think I've EVER compromised when it comes to movies.  Also, restaurants.  I don't want to go hungry, so we have to eat somewhere I like.  I'm not a picky eater, but I don't want to go somewhere if I'm not sure what my options are.  BUT keep in mind that I don't want to displease you, or seem difficult.  So I'm not going to choose.  I'm expecting you to choose the one that I want :-) Good luck!

2.  How is a gift card an unacceptable gift?

I always end up buying a gift that I think someone needs.  Or something that I really wish someone would buy for me.  There is never a question as to what someone should get as a present for me, it's one of my Pinterest Boards.  No guessing game required!  Unless you hint at something, have family/friends tell me what you want, or you blatantly instruct me on what to get you, I expect a half smile thank you.  I'm used to the response of, "oh cool, what does it do though?"  It's ok, I'm here to educate.

3.  Roman-ize

If I see a good looking guy, I wonder what it would be like to date him.  I cannot help it.  As much as I try, I just can't!  As bad as it sounds, I get much satisfaction in knowing that a man finds me attractive.  So, I flirt.  I think this is more of a power thing.  I enjoy manipulating someone into thinking that they have a chance with me, and then crush that sliver of hope.  I just may have the characteristics of a Disney villain. hmm.  This has to be unsettling for anyone who dates me.  Considering I have cheated on nearly everyone I've dated, but that comes down to the relationship being long past over and me not having the guts to end it. Live & learn!

4.  Love my friends.

Bottom line.  My friends are awesome.  I don't judge them, they don't judge me.  I talk about them all the time, so if you can't keep their personalities/locations straight, well were you even paying attention??  If you don't love them or vice versa... buh-bye.

5.  Champagne taste on a beer budget.

I have no concept of money.  I overspend.  I bust my budget.  I irrationally rationalize with myself.  I buy expensive things that I need to have.  I can't help it that I'm really into being on top of trends and like to invest in my wardrobe.  However, in my defense, my bills are paid on time.  I simply may need to live with my (or your) parents a little longer than anticipated.

6. I live in a complete fantasy world.

I will never stop chasing my dreams of travelling the world, and making a living doing something I love.  My goals are not unattainable, nor are they ridiculous.  My ultimate career goal is to become a professor and do tons of research.  There is nothing wrong with that.  Although, I also dream of living a very glamorous life.  I believe that both of those goals are more than simply hopes and dreams.  The issue with this for a significant other of mine, is that I refuse to let anything hold me back.  If I need to move, I'm going to pack up and go.  If you want to/can follow me, then that would be lovely.  If not, I'll manage.

7.  I have relationship ADD

I get so bored in a relationship.  In the beginning I'm that girl, who can't get enough of their boyfriend.  Flash to a year later, and as he leans in to kiss me, I turn and give him the cheek.  This also adds to my infidelity.  I'm always looking for something new and fun to do.  I was once in a very long relationship, and it got to the point where I simply wasn't attracted to them as a partner anymore.  Not that I didn't think they weren't good looking, I just had no desire to be intimate with them.  This has happened with every long relationship I've been in to date.  Which worries me.

8.  Me. Me. Me. Me. ME!

If you couldn't tell, I'm extremely selfish.  If things don't go my way, get out of my way or face the consequences.  Right now, I'm thinking the only reason I want to get married is to throw an awesome party for myself where my friends feel obligated to attend.  Unlike a 27th birthday party which is ridiculous to fly across the country to attend.  I want what I want, and I want it now.  I want to spend my money on me.  I want to have to fun.  I want to enjoy life.  My way.

Well now that you think I'm a horrible person, Here are 2 reason why I am completely date-able:

1.  I am generous.

Although I buy horrible gifts, and they aren't what you had in mind, sometimes, I really get it right.  While I'm depleting my bank account on ridiculous, expensive clothes that I absolutely need in order to function, I'm also stumbling upon something for you too.  While I may not be thrilled about doing something that I don't want to.  I also am a huge people-pleaser, so I won't complain.

2.  I am enthusiastic about life

As I stated earlier, I have huge hopes and dreams, which in some cases is a downfall, however, it's also a bonus!  I love to travel and experience new things!  I may not be a huge thrill seeker, but I'll watch a thrill.  I live every moment to the fullest and take every opportunity handed.

This leads me to my current relationship.  I began writing this because we are about to come up on our 1 year anniversary (go ahead, roll your eyes).  In the beginning of this relationship I can attest to informing my boyfriend, numerous times, "I'm a very difficult person to date, are you sure about this?"  I just wanted to let him know what he was getting into.  Fortunately for me, we share enough similarities, and differences that our relationship is absolute balance.  I'm kind of baffled by the whole thing.  At this point in my other relationships, I was bored.  I think it's the sense of adventure that we both share enables us to keep things fun by taking in new experiences together.  I'm up for this adventure!