Let's Fall into Winter makeup looks

The fall season is quickly coming to end....with the beautiful snow outside it's hard to picture the leaves and pumpkins. No matter what the calendar says Winter is most certainly here. But I just to do a fall inspired look, which could be worn in the Winter or whenever your heart desires!
No makeup rules here! I was inspired by the beautiful fall shades of orange,brown and burgundy. I created this look with Ella Fitzgerald on Pandora serenading me in background to set the relaxing mood. I rocked 3 different shades of lipstick for the same eyes. It's your choice. Mix it up! 

DISCLAIMER: I am not a professional makeup artist. I enjoy makeup and I'm always learning...be nice!

No Pity Party for you!

It's so easy to get caught up in social networks...Facebook....Instagram...Twitter. Sometimes it "seems" as if  everyone is doing better than you and progressing in life. People are either getting married, having great friendships, families and relationships, living out their dreams, taking exotic trips, gaining and keeping popularity, losing weight, staying beautiful, dreams coming true etc. And that demon I like to call "comparison" creeps up on you and here comes pity party train. Most people would never admit they've ever felt this way. This is all do to pride and not wanting to appear insecure or jealous aka "hating."

But c'mon we have all felt that way some point. We tend to forget sometimes that people reveal what they want you see on these sites....the glorified parts of their life. That's right... parts.....meaning their whole life is not glitz, glamour and happiness all the time. Not to mention the fantasy world that Internet users create. Do not fall for it! We all have struggles and daily challenges. But sometimes you just need to sign off, log off or deactivate for a little while and connect with "real" life.

Buffalo Comic-Con 2013

From the very first moment I heard Comic-Con was coming to Buffalo, I immediately purchased my ticket. Surprisingly to most, this was my very first Comic-Con I ever attended. (Yes people I'm a rookie)But I had a blast! It was so refreshing to be surrounded by others who share the same interests. You had the nerdy, the geeky,the eccentric and everyone in between. In addition, various people from all ages, genders, races and walks of life.Believe me,comics aren't just loved by guys,us girls dig it too!

Stormtroopers

Being black and blonde: My thoughts and experience

African-American women have been going blonde for decades. Etta James, Beyonce, Mary J. Blidge, NeNe Leakes, Doroetha Towels are just a few of the sista's that have taken the blonde look and transformed it into their trademark. It's sassy, it definitely turns heads and not to mention it's fun. But not everyone is a fan. In particular black people. Who can get a little too deep and resentful when it comes to a black woman deciding to dye her hair blonde. What is the big deal? I'm glad you asked...

Dorothea Towels (model)

I'm motivated! Motives Cosmetics

I am notorious for dabbling in various brands, whether its drugstore or department. I believe you should never limit yourself when it comes to makeup.It is always good to try out other brands, just to be versatile and so you know what other lines are out there. MAC, Urban Decay, NARS and Makeup Forever are good old faithfuls but there are so many other great quality products that are extremely underrated! Ahhh my new love..... Motives Cosmetics by Loren Ridinger!

My rant: I can't just "get over it"

I wrote this post a month and a half ago.I was a little reluctant to "share" this but I decided go ahead and be brave. First off I'll start by saying I'm proud to be black. Our people have created and cultivated this country.Our culture has it's perks. We are beautiful, strong, creative and God fearing. We are also the most imitated race. Our style, music, and culture as a whole. Yet with all it's beauty comes an ugly side. Living everyday as an African American can be down right daunting.

Quick take:Daft Punk Random Access Memories

Punk. Disco. Pop.Futuristic . Brilliant. Creative. These are just a few words to describe them. Daft Punk's album Random Access Memories gives us listeners such an infusion of various genre's of music. French Duo  "Guy-Manuel" de Homem-Christo  and Thomas Bangalter never disappoint when it comes to creativity. I became a fan of them when I  first heard the Tron: Legacy Soundtrack in 2010. It was nothing short of amazing.

Quick take on Emeli Sande's Our Version of Events

 Emeli Sande is an artist I cannot stop talking about. Whether I'm straightening up the house or practicing dance, I always have this album playing in heavy rotation. If you're like me, you tend to like the underdogs, which in my opinion, Emeli is. She is so unbelievably gifted and unique. A real stand out artist.

Our Version of Events is an album that should definitely be in your music arsenal.

My 13 most biggest pet peeves

We all have things that just get under our skin....and it can be the most simplest minuscule thing. Nothing at all earth shaking or deep. Even with a patient spirit, that pet peeve may not be annoying to some but that "thing" drives you insane!  I sat and really thought about it. It was very challenging to just narrow these down to 13. Why 13? Because the typical 10 just wasn't enough. 

5 cheesy 80's movie soundtrack songs I'm not ashamed to admit I like

Yes they may be cheesy to some...... well .....maybe many. But we all need a little nostalgia every now and then. Movies back in day had songs that really made the film. You know the lyrics and the timing of the dramatic music behind the lyrics. They bring a smile to my face and maybe yours too. It's the songs that some still play to get motivated, to workout or to even break out in a dance. Either way I'm not afraid to admit I like them. Are you?

Sho'nuff from The Last Dragon

Nerdy sista and the mainstream sista: Can we connect? From the black nerd's prospective

Let me start out by saying I'm not writing this post because I am uncomfortable with my individuality but to see if there is any one that has had this feeling and or experience.

You ever been in a store, waiting in line to be cashed out and there are a few sistas in line with you, your phone goes off and Led Zeppelin's is on your ringtone? You get the scuffs, the look of confusion or maybe disgust? Why on earth would this black chick have rock music as a ringtone? This girl is lost! She thinks she's white. All this coming from another sista?

Sadly, I have experienced all thee above............

Happy Independence Day :Wonder Woman inspired makeup look!

In celebration of Independence Day I had to do something festive with my makeup (just for fun). I always wanted to a rendition of my girl Wonder Woman also known as Diana of Themyscira. A warrior princess of the Amazon. This heroine represents strength and fights for justice! So I put my own edgy spin to this look . Enjoy!

Picture of inspiration

Star Sapphire inspired makeup look

I came across this picture of one of DC Comics supervillains Star Sapphire. She definitely rocks! I was so inspired by the beautiful colors. I dug into my makeup collection and created my own interpretation of this look. So here is a real quick post on what I came up with. Hope you enjoy!

My NATURAL haircare routine...seriously picture heavy!!

I'm a product junkie when it comes to trying different products for hair. But there are a few products that work really well for my natural hair and that I always reach for. Want to see how I keep this look up and color fresh? Keep reading.......






Let's start:

The front of my hair is dyed (copper)so I definitely deep condition once a week. I use Lush Cosmetics Henna & Jasmine Fluff. I leave it in for 20 minutes.

My favorite 80's and 90's cartoon theme songs

To me between the 1980's and the 1990's had some of the best theme songs for cartoons. If you're like me you have them memorized, hey maybe you even have one as a ring tone. Plus we all love the feeling of nostalgia. You can't help but to be in a good mood when listening to them. Now, with YouTube, Itunes and social media you have easy access and can listen to these songs anytime.

Here are just some of my favorites. Believe me it was very hard to narrow it down. I was gonna stick with 10 but I added one more for a bonus. Here we go!

I'm back! My NEW everyday skincare regimen update

Yes indeed it has been a long time since I made a blog post...shame on me. Everyone needs a regroup period...right? But before I go into a tangent I get a lot of questions on what I use on my skin. I'm the type of person when a product stops working for me, I have pretty much become immune to it. So I switch it up.

I've been using this routine for about three months and it gets the stamp of approval. It's pretty simple.

So here it goes:

The most overheard tip : Drink lots of water!! Cliche...but it really does make your skin clearer...I can personally tell the difference in my skin and it is no myth.

Let's be real :Why are sista's so hard on eachother: My rant

Now we know in reality that women sometimes have a rather difficult time getting along whether it be in the work place or a social setting. As you can see from the picture there is a Caucasian woman and a African American women. "It doesn't make you less of a woman to give another woman a compliment." But in my opinion and in my personal experience black woman have the hardest time doing this.

Disclaimer: I know this isn't the case for ALL black women and can have cultivating relationships but in retrospect this odd black girl thinks its sadly very prevalent specifically among black women.

I am sure you all seen tons and tons of articles,  the videos and the and debates on how critical black women can be on each other. This may not pertain to ALL sistas but I feel as though its' a major and rather unnecessary issue in the black community.

Well I want to give my personal opinion on the subject.

The Assumption of the Meek Spirit

If you follow my blog, which may I add  many of should do I did a post a few months back called "The Black Introvert" discussing the stereotypes and personality traits that society thinks we are supposed to naturally have.

Well I'm going to dig a little deeper and take a more general approach on laid back personality which in most cases tend to be misunderstood.

Some people tend to usually think calm people:

Lack strength

Lack knowledge 

Lack power

Not go-getters

Get lost in the mix

Easily shaken and broken

In my personal experience, people tend to make their own assumptions about a person, when they just can't quite figure you out. Calm, quiet and laid back people usually assume they are homebodies, not assertive or sociable, can't handle the attacks of the enemy.  So not true at all! Ahhhh the ignorance.......

Some people are just more subtle on how they approach or attack a situation. No not being "sneaky" but by being quiet and strong in their faith.

A quiet person, may not always be in the forefront for everyone to see or voice "I'm doing this, that and that for the Lord!"   They could very well be ministering to someone by making a phone call to someone who is hurting, listening to them or just simply smiling  at someone on the street. That's ministry.

That's how creative my God is. He uses our gifts, talents, character and personality to bring others to His kingdom.

I always loved the quote "Meekness is not weakness but strength controlled." There is so much power in being quiet and letting God move.

Me being quiet waiting on God.There is strength in silence. Meek spirit.

Honestly I think some of us get caught up in business...ripping and running and never take the time out to listen to the voice of God.

 

 

1 Peter 3:3-4

 Do not let your adornment be merely outward—arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel— rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God.

With that being said, a calm meek spirit doesn't mean a weak disposition. Glorifying Him isn't always glamorous,it won't always require pomp and circumstance, or a public service announcement for the whole world to hear and see. A gentle spirit can still be bold and tenacious.....yet still subtle with their method. Never underestimate the blessings that are done behind the scenes.


Be blessed!

 

Ode to Alvin Ailey’s Revelations

Whenever I need dance inspiration or have dancers “block” I have always researched and watched Alvin Ailey dances. Years ago I have had the pleasure of seeing them in a live performance at the University of Buffalo. But every now and then I pop in a DVD or watch them on You Tube. And believe me it is truly healing for the soul.

Me in dance mode!

The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater’s epic performance “Revelations” takes you on a journey through slavery to freedom in a series of dance pieces. This performance has been respected and loved by all generations throughout the world as it explores the hardships and victories that African-Americans faced in history. Revelations breaks the racial barriers and has been replicated and studied by many other dance schools and companies.

The Incredible Hulk inspired makeup look: PICTURE HEAVY

Gotta love the Marvel comic book characters. So instead of acting out as the Incredible Hulk I just put all my energy into my makeup and did my own take on it. More subtle yet fun and bright at the same time. I love purples and greens especially once it comes to eye shadows. It's definitely wearable!  You could do this look for a night out to the movies....or any fun event. 

Green mascara gives it more of the "Hulk" look

Super quick post: Nemo & Nostalgia

Ahhhhh the snow storm Nemo . Trapped inside the house. Yup that good old cabin fever. Unsafe roads. Make it a movie or TV series night. It's nothing like nostalgia to relax  you on blistery nights like this. So yes I'm all set with my electric blanket and my Complete Fifth Season of the Facts of Life. (Mind you I also have 3 and 4). Team Nerd!

So what's one of your favorite nostalgic movie or TV series?

Stay warm, be safe, and have a blessed night!

XOXO,

Court

Comic book character Bumblebee inspired makeup look

Hi!!

I love comic book superheros so I decided to do a makeup look on DC's comic book character Bumblebee aka Karen Beecher-Duncan. I love everything about this picture,  from the contrast of  the colors yellow and black ..... the strength she represents and the fact that she's a sista! 

I looked a little tired in my pics with my wild eyebrow (odd and unique brow)....I did this so late at night lol. Anyway I put my own odd girl twist to create this look. Hope you enjoy!Want to know what I used to create this look? Or where I purchased the products..... Hit me up!

WARNING: Picture Heavy!!!

Bumblebee

Django Unchained from The Odd Black Girls perspective

This my good people was my eager Facebook status update on Djano Unchained on the drive home from the movie (I was in the passenger seat!No texting and driving okay!):

       

Disclaimer :I'm not here to dissect the whole film but to simply express MY thoughts and views. What instantly comes to my mind. No essay here! I am not a movie critic nor a historian. Oh and I realized I spelled Tarantino's name incorrectly in my Facebook Stat lol.

I had no interest in seeing this film at first whatsoever. But I gave in! To the controversy that is.

Let's be honest folks, this movie is clearly is not for everyone. While I sat in the movie theatre I saw at least one interracial couple and a black couple walk out in the middle of film mumbling "I can't watch this". Using swear words of course.

Maybe it was the flat out use of the N-word, the shackles on whipped scarred black men , the crude humor and characters, the pitiful run down looking black folks, the unusual random humor about KKK head sheets.... just to name a few. Roots on steroids maybe? Just maybe? Where is Levar Burton?

The lips have it: High End vs Drugstore

Anyone that knows me know I love a bold lip color. When you don't have time for full out face of makeup a striking lip color can a strong statement. That's how you turn heads honey! Trust me! Not to mention a confidence booster!

 Plus it's about being frugal. You can purchase similar shades without dishing out serious duckets. The quality of the lipsticks/lip glosses can vary. Remember:price doesn't always matter. There are cheap lipsticks that have lasting power.

Here are a list of my current  favorite lipsticks/lip glosses. You don't always have to purchase a bunch lipsticks like me (I can be a makeup hoarder and yes I need help)

  

MAC Rebel Lipstick
Can be purchased at a MAC Cosmetics, maccosmetics.com, Macy stores,macys.com
$15.00

Movie nerd obsessions: First Edition

I'm the type of girl when I really like something I am totally into it wholeheartedly. Here is a collection of few movies and such that I have been obsessed with since I was young. Mind you like I said it is just a snippet. And there will definitely be more in future post lol.


Lets just say I'm in love with the Wiz Musical.The funky version of the Wizard of Oz....and yes I have the soundtrack, the movie, and the vocal sheet music.. I have all the songs memorized and can quote the movie as if I wrote the script  and lyrics myself. (No lie) c'mon Michael Jackson, Diana Ross and the beautiful Lena Horne to name a few.....just spells out the ultimate Dream Cast in my eyes.