



![]() |
that's me in the purple hat |
Around 4th grade, my hair finally became long enough to put into a ponytail. My mom attempted my first relaxer but she was so afraid my hair would fall out she pretty much washed it out immediately. So, it did nothing! She then attempted to straighten it with a curling iron. Once again it did nothing. So from there, I upgraded from headbands to ponytails and hats. Since I couldn't wear hats at school, my hair was pulled back with a scrunchy. But any time I left the house.. on the cap went! I felt like a hat could hide my insecurities and frizzy hair. In the 90's, there wasn't YouTube or Facebook. If you wanted to try a new hairstyle, you copied the magazines. So naturally my mom didn't think to look there because you couldn't just pick them up in the stores we went to. Unless it was the grocery store... I would pick up hair magazines and thumb through them as she would shop. Seeing those hairstyles and new products I knew I HAD to get them. The first product my mom bought after my attempted relaxer was Pink Lotion. My hair was soft, more manageable and it seemed to be on the right track. All of that confidence came to a screeching halt during spirit week that year. I wore my favorite hat to school on hat day... my hair was in a pony tail and I felt good. However, that day we had a substitute that we all knew. She was an older black lady who was never shy to tell us how she felt. For the most part, we all enjoyed having her in our class. I remember it was after lunch and we were listening to her read the class book aloud when all of a sudden she stopped, looked up at me and said " your mom needs to do something with your hair" in front of the whole class. Of course being immature 4th graders they all burst out laughing uncontrollably. I couldn't hold the tears any more so they just began to fall. I never felt like the kids were in the wrong.. they were kids. However it did take me a very long time to forgive and get over the treatment of that teacher. After all she did humiliate me in front of my peers. I figured she would have seen my struggle and offered to help as opposed to scrutinize.

![]() |
after my first perm |
![]() |
trying to find hairstyles I could do |
Even though my progress with my hair was improving, my confidence was still shaken. Could I pull these off? Do I look good with braids? Even as I moved into high school I struggled with my hair. I would wash it too often, dye it to harshly and apply too much heat. I didn't know how to properly nourish my hair and I was stripping it of all it's nutrients when I would use products that were meant for white/thin hair. My hair had become so damaged that it began to break off. Around 11th grade my hair had broken so much, it went from the middle of my back to right above my shoulders.
![]() |
me and one of my closest guy friends from HS |
![]() |
HS struggling to wear it natural. All my hair broke off from dying it. |
![]() |
before my hair started to grow. |


- Dinner and a Movie- Do something you would probably do any other night. Only this time, put the kids to bed early or send them to your trusted sitter. Have a date night indoors with a new movie or a classic and enjoy a quiet romantic dinner alone. Don't forget to grab that special bottle of cab.
- Complete a Puzzle- Another budget date night idea you can do at home is to complete a puzzle. Find a quirky one, hard one or beautiful landscape. Spend time connecting, talking and enjoying a quiet night in.
- Spa Date- Bring out the fresh towels, cucumbers and scented lotions. Create a spa like atmosphere and enjoy a relaxing date night at home without spending spa money. Places like Target, Walmart and the Dollar Tree have super cheap face masks you can buy for you and your spouse. Want to save a little bit more? Use ingredients you already have around the house! Egg whites, avocados, bananas, honey, yogurt and oatmeal are all great starting points.
- Date Night Game Night- Cards, boxed games, board games or electronic ones.. games are games! Spend the night playing games and laughing the night away. Want to make it a little more interesting? Invite over some of your favorite couples and play teams.
- Cook a Special Meal- There are so many online tutorials and cooking clubs, especially since covid-19. My go to for cooking videos... YouTube lol. My husband and I can get lost watching cooking videos and tutorials on YouTube, especially when we are up late and struggling to go to sleep!
- Cooking Competition at Home- I actually got this idea from D'Andra Simmons (RHOD). Plan on picking a main meat (fish, chicken, beef etc), set the timer and get cooking. You each have 60 minutes to cook your item in your own way. Say you choose to make chicken. You can create a delicious cajun chicken meal and your spouse can whip up some curry chicken. Same main meat just cooked differently. This idea looked like so much fun and I am planning on doing this with my husband very soon! Should I make a video for it? Would that be entertaining to watch hahaha?
- Camping- It doesn't cost much to go camping. Load up those sleeping bags, tents and camping essentials and head off to a nearby camp site
- Star Gazing- This one can be done while camping or in the comfort of your own home or car. If at home, lay out some blankets and pillows on the patio or lawn before sunset. Have light snacks and get ready to gaze at God's beautiful night sky. If you plan this ahead of time, add a little twist to star gazing by printing off constellations and see how many you can find.
- Hiking- Hiking is a great budget date idea. It only costs a little bit of gas and some sweat lol. Find a local hiking spot and hit the trails. You may even find your new favorite spot.
- Yard Games- Like indoor game night, outdoor game night can be just as fun. Drag out the old corn hole, Frisbee or make up a new game. Either way you will be outside enjoying each others company.
- Picnic- A good ol' fashioned picnic is another favorite budget date idea. Make it romantic with some candles, wines, cheese platters and soft music.
- Farmer's Market- The Farmer's Market is another great place to have a budget friendly date. Check out local vendors, sample delicious food and enjoy your community.
- Visit a U-Pick Farm- There are plenty of U-Pick farms open during the warmer months and Fall. Find one near you and head out to pick up some fresh produce.
- DIY- Whether you are starting a new one or finishing up that one you paused 2 months ago, spend the day doing fun projects for the home.
- Site Seeing- Every city has something interesting to see. In Dallas, it's the big ol' mansions and landmarks that everyone loves to gawk at. My husband and I have taken several drives around Highland Park so check out the old mansions and interesting architecture of the new ones. Don't forget to map out those land marks and murals.
- Visit a Museum- Most museums are free so that makes a super budget friendly date idea. Stroll around the museum checking out the different pieces and learn about the artists.
There are so many things you can do to have fun while staying on a budget. While the fancy restaurants and symphony are great places to go on date, they may not always be within your means. I would gladly take a well planned and thought out date from any of the ones listed above.
Have you tried any of these budget date night ideas? What is your favorite? Let me know in the comments below!


Summer skin care products are essential as the summer sun starts to boil us all into a sweaty mess lol. Our skin, sensitive or not, must constantly be taken care of. Cleansing, moisturizing, detoxing... you name it.
Growing up, I didn't really struggle with acne. However, my skin was very uneven, overly sensitive and oily. As I have gotten older, I did begin to have more breakouts (acne & irritation) because I piled more makeup on daily lol. Thankfully, I have found great products that help me combat it and leave my skin cleansed and hydrated.
So, I decided to compile this list to share my favorite summer skin care products that will leave your skin refreshed as it starts to get hotter and we get sweatier.
There are tons of skin care products out there that are great for our skin but not necessarily for our skin in summer time. Summer skin care products should be light yet nourishing. Who wants to be sweaty and oily during the hot summer months? I know I don't.
I personally have combination skin as well as sensitive skin, so finding products that work and benefit my skin can be a challenge. Especially in the harsher months like winter and summer.
So, before you head out and stock up on your summer skin care essentials, take a look at some of my favorites and give them a try for yourself.
Also, if you are looking for more resources on clean and natural products for your skin, check out the Clean Beauty Gals blog for listicles full of awesome products and tips!
1. Garnier Micellar Water- This one is always on my list. This micellar water is cleanses, hydrates and is great for all skin types. I personally use this daily as well as my 12 year old daughter. It helps with her acne caused by her monthly cycle and the changes she is currently going through. I love the Garnier Micellar Water because it is inexpensive and perfect for summer.

2. Garnier Rose Water Mist- Like I said previously, rose water is one of my faves and this particular one is my go to. When ever my skin gets irritated from makeup, I grab my rose water spray and apply it all over my face. The redness and irritation subsides almost instantly. This rose water is great for summer because it is a mist so application is very quick and easy plus it dries quickly as well.
3. Thayers Witch Hazel Rose Petal- This witch hazel is the perfect toner for all skin types, especially if you struggle with acne or scarring. With hazel is gentle on skin alone, but with the added rose petal extract... it soothes even more. Rose water is one of my FAVORITE things when it comes to skin care.

4. Evian Mineral Spray- I keep a small bottle in my purse all summer long lol. This mineral spray is great for moisturizing, cleansing and more. Whenever it is hot outside and I get overly sticky or sweaty, I grab my Evian Mineral Spray. I always feel instantly refreshed.

5. Eucerin Daily Hydration Cream- Eucerin is one of my favorite brands when it comes to creams and lotions. A lot of their products are great for the areas on my skin that get really dry, Their daily hydration cream has SPF 30 so it protects against harmful uv rays and sunburns. Plus, it is light weight and not over oily which makes it great for most (if not all) skin types.

6. Palmer's Cocoa Butter (stick)- Cocoa butter is the OG skin care product. It heals scars, nourishes skin, helps with sun burns, evens skin tones and more. I use this in the evening to help with my minimal scarring and discoloration. Cocoa butter is pretty heavy so I would not suggest using it during the hot summer days. But at night, when you are cool and getting ready for bed... cake your face with Palmer's cocoa butter for beautiful skin!
Like I said before there are so many products that are great for your skin during the hot summer months. These are my essentials that help me keep my sensitive/ combination skin in check!
What summer skin care products do you use when it gets hotter? Have you used any of these? Let me know in the comments below!
Growing up, I didn't really struggle with acne. However, my skin was very uneven, overly sensitive and oily. As I have gotten older, I did begin to have more breakouts (acne & irritation) because I piled more makeup on daily lol. Thankfully, I have found great products that help me combat it and leave my skin cleansed and hydrated.
So, I decided to compile this list to share my favorite summer skin care products that will leave your skin refreshed as it starts to get hotter and we get sweatier.
There are tons of skin care products out there that are great for our skin but not necessarily for our skin in summer time. Summer skin care products should be light yet nourishing. Who wants to be sweaty and oily during the hot summer months? I know I don't.
I personally have combination skin as well as sensitive skin, so finding products that work and benefit my skin can be a challenge. Especially in the harsher months like winter and summer.
So, before you head out and stock up on your summer skin care essentials, take a look at some of my favorites and give them a try for yourself.
Also, if you are looking for more resources on clean and natural products for your skin, check out the Clean Beauty Gals blog for listicles full of awesome products and tips!
1. Garnier Micellar Water- This one is always on my list. This micellar water is cleanses, hydrates and is great for all skin types. I personally use this daily as well as my 12 year old daughter. It helps with her acne caused by her monthly cycle and the changes she is currently going through. I love the Garnier Micellar Water because it is inexpensive and perfect for summer.

2. Garnier Rose Water Mist- Like I said previously, rose water is one of my faves and this particular one is my go to. When ever my skin gets irritated from makeup, I grab my rose water spray and apply it all over my face. The redness and irritation subsides almost instantly. This rose water is great for summer because it is a mist so application is very quick and easy plus it dries quickly as well.
3. Thayers Witch Hazel Rose Petal- This witch hazel is the perfect toner for all skin types, especially if you struggle with acne or scarring. With hazel is gentle on skin alone, but with the added rose petal extract... it soothes even more. Rose water is one of my FAVORITE things when it comes to skin care.

4. Evian Mineral Spray- I keep a small bottle in my purse all summer long lol. This mineral spray is great for moisturizing, cleansing and more. Whenever it is hot outside and I get overly sticky or sweaty, I grab my Evian Mineral Spray. I always feel instantly refreshed.

5. Eucerin Daily Hydration Cream- Eucerin is one of my favorite brands when it comes to creams and lotions. A lot of their products are great for the areas on my skin that get really dry, Their daily hydration cream has SPF 30 so it protects against harmful uv rays and sunburns. Plus, it is light weight and not over oily which makes it great for most (if not all) skin types.
6. Palmer's Cocoa Butter (stick)- Cocoa butter is the OG skin care product. It heals scars, nourishes skin, helps with sun burns, evens skin tones and more. I use this in the evening to help with my minimal scarring and discoloration. Cocoa butter is pretty heavy so I would not suggest using it during the hot summer days. But at night, when you are cool and getting ready for bed... cake your face with Palmer's cocoa butter for beautiful skin!
Like I said before there are so many products that are great for your skin during the hot summer months. These are my essentials that help me keep my sensitive/ combination skin in check!
What summer skin care products do you use when it gets hotter? Have you used any of these? Let me know in the comments below!

Hey y'all!
Another birthday has arrived.. and left lol (this is a super late birthday post). Along with this world wide pandemic, we have been busy with packing and.. MOVING! YAY!
We finally moved into our new place in Dallas and I have been busy, excited, preoccupied and every other feeling or emotion that ties along with it lol.
So since we were moving, we really didn't get the chance to do anything special for Italy's birthday except have her favorite meal. Thankfully, kids are very forgiving and understanding. I plan to make it up by making brownies secretly this week lol.
Now... onto one of my favorite traditions, birthday interviews! Want to see how Italy has changed since last year? Check out her birthday interview from last year HERE.
Italy has grown into such a sassy, bright and funny little girl that keeps us on our toes and laughing all day long. If you didn't know this before, you can easily see her personality come alive in these photos lol.
This is 7:
1. What is your favorite color? Pink
2. What is your favorite food? Macaroni and cheese
3. What is your favorite subject? Language Arts/ Art
4. What is your favorite activity? Play with my toys, eating snacks, coloring, dancing, working out and that's about it..
5. What is your favorite movie? Frozen 2
6. What is your favorite show? Watch Cars, Nexo Knights, Raven's Home
7. What do you think 7 will be like? good, funn (<< typed by Italy :D )
Italy, we love you soo much! You keep us all laughing and our home filled with joy. Daddy and I are proud of you and we look forward to who you will become. You dance to your own beat and you shine like the sun!
What do you do special for your little ones birthday? Let me know in the comments below!

Earth Day is approaching and I have the perfect Earth Day craft for you and your kiddos. But before we start, what exactly is Earth Day and why is it something we participate in?
Earth Day originated in the 70’s and has become celebrated each year around the world to draw attention to our environment and how we can take care of it and keep it thriving while we inhabit it.
What can you do to celebrate Earth Day?
For starters, you can focus on minimizing waste, excessive water usage and put the 3R’s into action. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle!
For this craft we took the second R (reuse) and create this super easy Earth Day craft. We reused some paper that had a few printing mistakes on them from school assignments. This craft doesn’t require much and can really be done by kiddos of any age.
This Earth Day craft resembles the Earth in the palm of our hands. It serves as a reminder that while we are here, we should treat it the way we would treat our homes. Keep them clean by not littering, producing air pollution and making sure we are not using up our natural resources unnecessarily.
Now, onto the craft!
You will need:
White paper
Colored paper
Pencil
Scissors
Glue stick
Green and blue paint +paint brush (or anything you prefer)
STARTING with the white paper, trace out a medium to large sized heart. I just found one on google and traced it. The size of the heart will determine the size of your child’s hand. If they are younger, you will more than likely use a medium sized heart.
Once you trace the heart, use the green and blue paint to mimic the Earth! This doesn’t have to be accurate as it is a craft, but if you want it to be more accurate GO FOR IT! It’s easier to paint your heart before you cut it out so you can make sure it is completely covered. Once it’s painted, set aside to dry and move on to the next portion of the craft.
HANDS! It’s time to create the hands. On a different color sheet of paper, simply trace bit of your child’s hands. Once they are traced, cut them out as smoothly as possible. After you cut them out, be sure to erase any pencil lines that may still remain.
NEXT, your Earth heart, once it’s dry cut it out and and get ready for the cutest Earth Day craft!
Using the hands with both thumbs centered, fold a small flap towards the palms.
FINALLY , place the Earth heart into the crease of the flap with the painted side facing the fingers and adjust the hand cutouts to cradle the heart. Once in place, glue the tabs to the back and the bottoms of the palms/fingers onto the front of the heart.
NOW, isn’t that the cutest Earth Day craft?!
If you make this craft with your kiddo, I would LOVE to see it! Share it to tour Instagram and tag me in it!
What do you and your family do to celebrate Earth Day? Will you make this craft? Let me know in the comments below!
