I had to really motivate myself to do this challenge....so much going on.  Just frustrated all around:(  And YIKES...eliminations begin and I dont celebrate Holidays!

Challenge #4 was a definitely a harder challenge for me.  When I do me, it does not include Hats and Scarves, LOL!  When I am in a pinch... (I know this is bad because this is a natural hair competition)... I typically grab a Beverly Johnson wig... EEK!  I know, I know!   I only own one wool hat and scarf (SMH)... so I utilized my friend's closet for her abundance of hats/scarves.

This challenge took me out of my comfort zone which is what my article, "Your Mission:  To Be "Naturally You" Despite the Challenge Ahead" is all about.

Writing the article was the easiest part for me.  Doing you comes from within and I have definitely been on a Life Journey discovering who I am. 

Being that I am 5'11 you would think the pictures would be easier for me but I am so new to the print modeling world.  I have had more experience with runway work than print.

This competition has shown my strengths and has exposed my weaknesses.  This has been a very humbling experience. I am definitely going to continue showcasing my strengths and work even harder week after week to improve on my weaknesses.  I am also going to start buying more hats and scarves. I discovered a new "Me" by wearing them in my photo shoot.

Vote for my article and pictures for Challenge #3 - Doing You! - Hats and Scarves!

Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving!

Karla Thomas

 

Just posted Challenge 4...ugh, it was tough narrowing down which photos to choose...But hopefully I made the right decisions!  This time around I spent a little more time on the article than usual.  When receiving the challenge, I worked on the article portion immediately and set up my photoshoot a little earlier b/c I am finding that it has become too difficult to submit in time!  I've been submitting at 1159 on the dot lol  b/c from Friday sundown to Saturday sundown I observe the Sabbath, so it gives me one less day to work on my submission b/c I avoid leisurely things and working etc.... But I think the time constraint makes me get on my grind even more (??) 

I enjoyed myself once again...Just got a package today from going natural.  Nu Ade' is the product...Interested in finding out the Challenge for it:) 

P.s...I got a spider bite or something on my shoulder last week...I have to get it checked out ASAP!  Im very thankful I didnt get it on my face or anywhere visible (phew).  It itches like crazy though:(

I don't know about the other competitors of the Miss Nappturality contest but I know for me, this contest isn't easy! LOL  I had no idea, it was as hard as it is to model and do things "just right."  This has taught me an important and valuable lesson.  I have a newfound respect for models and their profession.  It isn't easy taking a whole bunch of pictures, changing, keeping up your momentum. 
Take for instance week 3, whew chile! We had to represent Jamaica...so its November and there I am half dressed laying all out on the sand, in the water! LOL  The next day, you guessed it, I was sniffling, and sneezing.  But you know what? I had a blast, and if I had the chance I would do it all over again!

 I have never been considered beautiful, especiallly when I was younger. So this contest has really boosted my self-esteem, and helped me realize that yes, I am beautiful, and I am worthy just like anyone else. Shew, we all are! We are made in his image so we are beautiful. 
This contest has taught me humility, patience, and beauty of self.

Thank you going natural, I appreciate it.

I am close to my 3 month mark perm free!! I am getting anxious to do my BC...had planned to transition for about a year first, but I don't think I can wait! I enjoying looking at my new growth and finding products that will help enhance its softness, overall health, and curl pattern. At this point it is a little taxing to work with the two textures; though I feel I do a great job with curly twist outs that are set on rollers...LOVE to rock my curly faux  fro!! lol (as seen on my profile image.)

 Wash or co-wash my hair twice a week currently...though if I BC, would wash every day potentially. May be looking into doing a mini chop soon. If so I plan to go to a natural hair stylist that can provide tips, other product recommendations, and encouragement along my journey. 

I haven't been to my regular stylist in over a month...she seemed a little resistant to my going natural...number one factor IMO is because she is NOT a natural hair stylist. I got tired of hearing comments like "girl I couldn't do it..." or "it's not for me..." or "man, your hair is LONG, imagine how much longer it would be if you got a perm...I'm just saying..." Don't get me wrong..I LOVED my stylist, but in a new journey with natural hair you NEED support!! That's all I am saying, I believe everyone is entitled to the right to do as they please with their tresses! I do! I have worn a perm for years, enjoyed a head full of long, thick, healthy hair too! I am just ready to enjoy MY NATURAL long, thick, curly, healthy hair as well! I love the idea of NOT having to run from the weather!! lol

Wish me luck and I will continue to post!! I just happened upon this website and am SO glad...I feel like every day with my hair is exciting and I want to talk about it!! "MyBlog" is perfect...now I don't have to subscribe to another one any time soon!!

Check me out on youtube...same name!!

 

Blessings always!!!

 

 

 

So far, the most difficult thing about  this competition is switching from the role of model to photogopher. I have to think past composition, facial expression, and body positioning and now have to focus on picture quality, lighting, etc.

This has been no easy task. I have grown to respect the roll of photographer so much more.

This week for Challenge #3 we had to review Jamaican Mango and Lime hair products and include pictures.  I had so much fun with this challenge.  Actually, I have fun with all the challenges.  This is such a great competition, not just for the contestants but for everyone watching and taking notice of the versatility of Natural hair.

 When I first went natural six years ago, I tried Jamaican Mango and Lime Twist gel.  This time around we were all given the opportunity to try the newest additions to their new product line.  I must say, I am on day 6 of using the Locking Firm Wax and my twisted hair is still feels so soft and moist.  I also tried the Jamaican Mango and Lime Cactus Gro and it truly has soothed my itchy scalp. 

Tired of hunting and internet shopping for natural hair products???!! Jamaican Mango and Lime can be found at your local grocery and beauty supply stores. Even Sally Beauty Supply stores sells their hair product line.

Please vote/comment on my article/pictures for Challenge #3!!!  While your at it, give Jamaican Mango and Lime a try....

Karla

What a week! Things are getting better. I car was dead since last Saturday but my boyfriend fixed it on Friday! (Yay!) I didn't even have the time to get to it. I live in PA but am staying in D.C. for along-term gig. I haven't been  home since October!

 Challenge 2 with Sula NYC's at home spa treatment was very hard! But fun to put together. I was cool trying to come up with a concept and thinking of how your going to execute it. I like how my step-by-step pictures for my review turned out.

This time around with Challenge 3 Jamacian Mango and Lime (which foodwise I love together- I wanted to use them for props but had no time to go to the store) products.  I tried to show some different looks  and hairstyles. I also worked a lot more on color adjustment and lighting.  I went to the store on Friday and did see the Jamaican Mango and Lime Wax at the supermarket.  I told my dude "Look this is the company whose products I am modeling in Challenge 3!" That was cool. Most of the day during the week I work, get back and am so tired. So I did alittle on Thursday and then did the rest all day on Saturday! I'm glad I did some photos during the week ! I did everything myself. Hopefully everyone enjoys the new shots.

 

 

 

photo by: James Mosley

So, for this week I was extra excited since it had to deal with a Jamaican theme, I have visited, and  I identify with the products so much! This is my first time using all the products however, I have used their lock gel before. To say this line of product smells good is an understatement, it smells phenomenal.  I just really appreciate how well they researched and came up with such a good quality product.

I went to Lake Las Vegas to try and capture the who tropical feel, mind you it was quite cool, the month of November (lol) though I did put my best foot forward. I just really enjoyed this weeks' challenge. I really hope you guys like the pics!

Booyaka, booyaka!

 

I had a photoshoot for challenge 3 yesterday (With F. Rankin) and will be shooting again today (with my boo:).  That is my favorite part!  I enjoy being creative in finding ways to sell a brand.  Being part of this competition is hopefully preparing me for bigger things in the future.  I lost my job last month and was denied unemployment, so im going through the annoyance of that.  But I'm thankful for the time I now have to pursue acting and modeling.  I look forward to the challenge e/ week b/c this is what I want to do...I'd rather be a struggling artist in hopes to no longer struggle, then working a 9-5 with no time to make dreams come true...I have my health and friends and family that love me.  The materialistic things in life dont matter if we dont fulfill our potential.

"Do what you love and love what you do.  If you dont know what that is, love the journey in finding out"  T. Borum