Heel to Toe Foot Softener

Hello everyone,

I know it's been a while since I've posted a review but I have been so busy lately and haven't tried too many new products. I'm so sorry!

As we all know, spring and summer are the seasons that we usually start wearing those open toe sandals and flip flops; however, if you have dry, cracked feet it can be really embarrassing to walk around with sandals on knowing that you could possibly be made fun of because of your feet.

I have tried the 2oz jar of Heel to Toe "Feels like new" Foot Softener and it made my feet look like new. I like my feet to look smooth so that's why I purchased the product. Not only did it make my feel look smooth, they felt like silk. The product did not  dry out later in the day so that meant my feet looked smooth all day long. My suggestion to those who use this product is not to use so much as it is a little oily and your feet will be sliding in your sandals if you use too much. I don't have any corns or calluses so I cannot tell you if it works on those areas. I looked up some reviews online about this item and for people who do have corns and calluses, it works for them.

I definitely will be buying more of the Heel to Toe Foot Softener in the future. I have also noticed that this brand also carried a Moisturizing Therapy Foot Repair and Peppermint Pedicure Salts. You can find these products at your local Sally's Beauty Supply or any other beauty supply store.

-Markesha xoxo

90 Day Castor Oil Hair Challenge FINISHED

Well, the 90 day Castor Oil Challenge for hair is over.......and my hair is THICKER, stronger and a little bit longer.

As some of you know, I started the Castor oil hair challenge back in February to see what everyone else was raving about. I applied Castor oil to my ends and scalp every day for the month of April and it kept my scalp moisturized. A lot of people have noticed that my hair has gotten thicker and wanted to know what I was doing to it. I can honestly say that this stuff works. I am going to continue to use Castor oil as it has truly helped me. Before I started the challenge, my scalp was very dry, my hair was shredding every time I combed it, the edges of my hair was thinning and my hair looked dull. Now that it's been 90 days, I can see new growth for thicker hair, my hair is shiny, it no longer sheds, it's fuller and I can actually wear it in a bun. Can't wait to see what my hair is going to look like a year from now! I used the Jamaican Black cast or oil but you can use regular Castor oil as well.

Below are the pictures of my hair before and after. If you are looking to put life back into your hair, PLEASE do this challenge!! Watch YouTube videos and do your research first if you are skeptical. If you missed any of my previous blogs, visit the links below. Blessings!

Start of my Castor Oil Challenge:  http://lastsliceradio.blogspot.com/2013/02/castor-oil-challenge.html

Month 1: http://lastsliceradio.blogspot.com/2013/03/1-month-of-castor-oil-hair-challenge.html

Month 2: http://lastsliceradio.blogspot.com/2013/04/castor-oil-hair-challenge-month-2.html

Had a Facial Lately?

Hey Lovers,

I know it's been a while since I posted a blog about a few products that I've tried out but I've been really busy and going through a few changes in life.....forgive me :-)

I've never really tried a Clay Mask before but I figured I'd give this stuff a try. It's the Freeman's "Feeling Beautiful" Avocado and Oatmeal Facial Clay Mask. It purges dirt and oils from your pores. You apply it to your face and neck. Leave it on until it dries then you wash it off with warm water. PLEASE keep it away from your eyes.

After I removed the clay mask, my face felt so soft and so clean. I was happy!!!!! You're supposed to do the mask once or twice a week so I'll definitely be using this regularly. I bought the sample pack but now that I know this stuff works, I'll be purchasing the bottle. Here are the key ingredients:

Avocado Oil
Oatmeal
Kaolin Clay

The price is very inexpensive. Only $3.99 for a 6 fl. oz bottle. Yay!!!!!! Try and see for yourself ;-).

-Markesha xoxo

Nivea A Kiss Of Moisture Lip Balms

Last year I received the Fresh Sugar lip balm from Sephora as their yearly birthday gift. It took me a while to try it out but when I did...I was hooked. At first, I didn't realize how awesome it was. But when I tried it on my lips as a night treatment before bed is when I saw what a treasure it was. The next morning my lips were baby bottom soft! Long story short, I ran out after being absolutely addicted. When I went to repurchase, I was stunned at the price $25.00. For a lip balm! So I had been on a hunt for something similar in quality without having to break the bank. So, I was browsing at Walgreens, and I came across this. Nivea a kiss of moisture lip balms, and I love them. For $3.99 each, I ended up getting the little tin, which they describe as a lip butter, and the tube in the flavors caramel cream kiss, and milk and honey. I can't get enough of these. I put them on through out the day, and as a night treatment. Both have the same affect. They feel so smooth and creamy, and they definitely have healed my chapped lips. They feel almost exactly the same as the Fresh Sugar balms, but at a fraction of the price! These are not the balms that just sit on top of the lips (smackers, carmex, blistex etc). These really penetrate your skin and heal the lips. I suggest trying these out if your in the market for new lip care.


~Mika J <3

Tree Hut Shea Sugar Body Scrub

Tree Hut Shea Sugar Body Scrub has changed my LIFE!!!!

While "attempting" to buy one thing at Walmart (which never happens), I came across this body scrub that smelled AMAZING! It was the Almond & Honey Shea Sugar Body Scrub and also the Body Butter. The sugar scrub is infused with certified organic Shea butter, real Honey and an array of natural oils which include Evening Primrose, sweet Almond Avocado, Macadamia Seed and Orange Oil. The body scrub buffs away dead skin cells, leaving your skin smooth.

I used it in the shower then applied the Almond & Honey Body Butter on my skin and wow, my skin was so soft. I kept touching my arms lol! This stuff really works and the best part about this scrub is that it improves complexion and retains natural sheen. It's also a deep moisturizer. You all have to try this! Guaranteed to make your skin feel so fresh and smooth. The body scrub was $5.88 and the body butter was $4.88. Not too expensive. Don't worry guys, this was not tested on animals so enjoy!!!! My NEW favorite product :-)

-Markesha xoxo

Castor Oil Hair Challenge: Month 2

Hello everyone!

It has been 2 months since I started the Castor Oil Hair Challenge and I'm still seeing positive results! I'm one of the satisfied people who has tried this challenge. I have yet to hear anything bad about Castor Oil for hair growth.

In my last blog (http://lastsliceradio.blogspot.com/2013/03/1-month-of-castor-oil-hair-challenge.html), I stated that I was applying the Castor Oil to my scalp and ends. Well, this time I am using the Castor Oil every day. I don't notice the smokey smell anymore. Maybe it's because I'm used to it or I'm not putting so much on my hair. The edges of my hair has grown and my hair is much thicker than before. After my 3rd month, I'm going to measure my hair to see how much longer it has gotten since the first time I started the challenge. Without measuring, I can already tell that my hair has gotten longer. and that's without straightening my hair. PLEASE NOTE: Your hair will not grow really long overnight. Please know that it could take a few years for your hair to grow all the way down your back. Being a natural means you must be patient. During the long journey, you'll see results. That's one of the most exciting parts of being a natural and doing the 90 day Castor Oil Challenge.

To read my very first blog about the Castor Oil Challenge, check out the following link: http://lastsliceradio.blogspot.com/2013/02/castor-oil-challenge.html . I know it says starting March 1st, but I started the night I posted that blog. I got a little impatient.....oops ;-)

-Markesha xoxo

Saute Express

Okay, so Land O' Lakes made this Butter & Olive Oil Saute starter called "Saute Express" that has me hooked!!!! The Saute starter is made out of Land O Lakes Butter, Garlic, Herbs, Spices, Olive Oil, Pepper, Salt  and Lemon. All of those ingredients inside a small square to add delicious flavor to your Chicken, Fish or Beef. There's only one step to use Saute Express and that's to simply put one packet/square into your pan and cook with your food.

There are four flavors to choose from: Italian Herb, Garlic and Herb, Savory Butter and Olive Oil and Lemon Pepper. I have tried the Lemon Pepper and Italian Herb flavors. With the Italian Herb Saute, I used that with Chicken Breasts and I couldn't believe how good my chicken taste. The Lemon Pepper was used while cooking my Tilapia and I loved that one too! This is something that I will continue to buy; however,  I won't be using it as much because it's still butter and I don't want to gain too much weight using this stuff every day ;-) lol

You can get Saute Express at your local grocery store for no more than $3.50. It comes in a 6oz package that includes 6 Squares. Each package is 80 calories/12 servings. To get some recipe ideas, visit the following link: http://www.landolakes.com/product/sauteexpress?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=land%20o'lakes%20saute%20express&utm_campaign=support%2Bcompetition&gclid=CPGY1ZurzbYCFdSMMgodFjMADg

-Markesha xoxo

"Manifesto" Womens Perfume

I'm a Body Spray type of woman but when I took a whiff of Manifesto by YvesSaintLaurent, I fell in love. You only need 1-2 sprays and it will last the entire day! It's a light smell but will have people turning heads. It made me feel real sexy.

You can get at your local Macy's Store. The price for a 1.0 oz bottle is $62.00, 1.6 oz is $82.00 and a 3.0 oz is $102.00. I personally wouldn't wear this every day because I would save it as my "Special Occasion" perfume. I am wondering if Manifesto also comes in Shower Gel. If they don't have it, YvesSaintLaurent should definitely consider making one. This is the perfect scent for spring. I recommend you try it for yourself.

-Markesha xoxo

Protective Styles for Natural Hair

Hello lovelies,

I am been natural for 7 months now. I have added heat to my hair twice within those months and have not added a relaxer to my hair since July 2012. Being a natural means you have to take real special care of your hair. My personal favorite for protective styles is the Twist Out (See last picture below).

You start out by putting your hair in cornrows but in a twist instead of braids at night. I use the "As I Am" Twist Defining Cream to apply to my hair when doing the cornrows. connect each twist together with bobby pins. Wrap your hair with a Silk Scarf before you go to bed. You can take your twists out in the morning but sometimes i prefer to leave them in for 1-2 days as I think the cornrows look really cute......another protective style for you ;-). While I have the cornrows in my hair, I apply a small amount of Castor Oil (I use 100% Jamaican Black) on my scalp and rub it in. When I'm ready to undo my twist, I take out the bobby pins, undo the twists then apply a small amount of "As I Am" Double Butter Cream Moisturizer to my hair and a small amount of Castor Oil to my ends. This style can last you for 3-4 days.

Here are a few other protective styles you can try:

Two part Twist and a Bun




Simple Ponytail (Please don't use a twistie that has a metal rod on it)



Bantu Knot




Pinned to the side



Yarn Twist



My Twist Out

We Love E.L.F.

E.L.F. (Eyes, Lips, Face) has everything you could imagine when it comes to cosmetics at an affordable price. I fell in love with E.L.F. a year ago and recommended this line to all of my friends. I've tried a number of their products including their makeup brushes, brush cleaners, cream eyeliners and much more. Prices range from $1 up to $20 which is awesome! I purchased a small angled brush for $1.00 to use for my cream eyeliner and I LOVE it!!! I loved it so much, I purchased 5 of them! You can purchase this brand at your local Target stores, Walmart, your local grocery store (at least the grocery stores in Minneapolis) and a few other places. Below are a few of my most favorite products from E.L.F. and what they do:

Brush Shampoo: Anti-bacterial brush cleanser for thorough cleaning in-between makeup applications. Washes away all traces of dirt, makeup, oil and debris from your brush while conditioning the hair to provide a clean and soft application for every use.

Daily Brush Cleaner: An anti-bacterial daily brush cleanser for cleaning in between makeup applications. After using your brush, spray several times on your brushes, wipe off with a cleansing cloth and let air dry.

Cream Eyeliner: Use an eyeliner brush or small angled brush and add cream eyeliner to it.  Apply to the eyelid.

Lip Primer and Plumper: The primer is applied to make your lipstick look brighter and the plumper simply makes your lips look fuller.

Eye Primer and Line Sealer: Eye primer is applied to your eyelid before you add eyeshadow to make your eyeshadow"pop" and the liner sealer transforms your favorite eyeshadow into a waterproof, smudge proof liquid liner with this unique clear liquid and built in felt tip precision eyeliner brush.

Under Eye Concealer and Highlighter: Contains vitamins A&E, Chamomile, Caffeine and Green Tea to moisturize, soothe and tighten the skin around the delicate eye area.

-Markesha xoxo

The look for Spring: Floral

Hello to all of my fashion lovers!

Floral is the new look for spring.....and I like it! In my opinion, Floral print gives you that flirty/sexy look. Also, it gives you that "Spring has sprung" feel. From Floral prints on jeans, shirts, skirts, dresses and hats, it's everywhere. How do you feel about the new trend?

My favorite floral look out of the four pictures below is the long white dress (or is it a pants suit?) with pink floral. That can be worn as a casual outfit or something fancy for date night. I would personally wear that outfit with some cute casual flat sandals (white), a nice tan colored or pink sun hat with a big tote bag with nude lipstick. Something I can wear for a nice brunch with gal pals or shopping during the day. If I was to hear this at night, I would totally wear it with some high heeled sandals, a simple pearl bracelet, necklace and earrings. I would add a white or pink satin clutch to it too.

What outfit would you choose and what would you wear with it? Let me know in the comments below!

-Markesha xoxo

Naturally Silk Elements Deep Nourishing Conditioner

Hey ;-)

While searching for a deep conditioner, I came across a brand called Naturally Silk Elements at Sally's Beauty Supply (As you can tell, I visit Sally's often). They have a deep nourishing conditioner that I tried the other day and it left my hair feeling awesome!!!!! The product smells great, it feels great and it brought lots of shine and moisture to my hair. The product comes in a 12 oz jar so you get alot for your money. I paid $8.99 because I had a Sally's Card but the product I believe is $9.99. The product smells like candy, but I have no problem with that. Better than smelling like a perm lol. I think i'm going to try their other products to see if this brand really delivers quality So far, i'm impressed.

Nature Made Biotin for Hair Skin and Nails

Good Afternoon!

The Natural Hair girls will know what Biotin is but for those who don't, Biotin is a dietary suppliment that promotes healthy hair, skin and nails. It is very important for this suppliment to be apart of your every day life.

I purchased this bottle of Nature Made Biotin at my local Target store for about $8.49 (don't quote me....I don't remember the exact price but I know it was $8.00+). Before purchasing, I did do some research on Biotin and the brand itself. The only negative I heard from some people was that their hair did not grow. Biotin is not supposed to promote hair growth, it's supposed to make your hair healthier and thicker......which it has done in my case. I started taking Nature Made Biotin back in October 2012. Within a week, I noticed that my hair was real shiny. Not dull like it used to be. A few months went by and I noticed my hair was much thicker and not breaking off as much as it used to. My skin was not as oily either. I have oily skin (my face) and taking the biotin helped. One downside of the product is that it did not promote nail growth. My nails are still breaking off......but I wouldn't discontinue using the product just because of that. Looking at the reviews, I see tons of people noticed that their nails were longer and stronger.

The size of the pill is really tiny. Like the size of a pea. It's easy to swallow and there is no foul taste to it. It's a liquid gel with no side effects. I would definitely recommend biotin to anyone who is looking to see a change in their hair, skin and nails. I am one satisfied customer and if you do your research, you'll see that there are several other satisfied customers as well.

If you have any questions, please feel free to ask! I'm here to help :-)

-Markesha xoxo

Prabal Gurung Shoes by Target

Almost every woman owns that one pair of heels that make them feel tall, confident and sexy. I own over 50 pairs of heels (Don't Judge) and I have fell in love with a brand by the name of "Prabal Gurung" by Target.

I started noticing this brand around January of this year. Not sure when Target came out with this brand but they need to keep them around for a very long time. Prabal Gurung has a selection of shoes from High Heels, Wedges, Flats and Sandals. Right now, I own about 3 pairs of their high heels and I find them to be very comfortable. As I am getting older, I am finding it more difficult to find a pair of heels that I can walk in for more than 3 hours. With these heels, I can stand around in them all day and not experience any discomfort.

Each pair of shoes I've purchased was $39.99 which is not too bad because of the quality you are getting. If you think that's a little pricey for a pair of shoes, shop around online for this brand because other places are selling these shoes for $20 to $30 more.....YIKES!!!!!

I would highly recommend that you buy yourself a pair or two.....or three. Hoping that they come out with more spring colors so I can add more of this brand to my collection of beauties. I'm truly a satisfied customer!

-Markesha xoxo

As I Am DoubleButter Cream Rich Daily Moisturizer

Hey Everyone!!!

As some of you know, I am obsessed with the "As I Am" haircare products. Yeah, they are a little on the pricey side but trust me, it's worth every single penny!! I haven't put a relaxer on my hair since July of 2012 but I noticed that my hair was extremely dry and breaking off after I put the relaxer in.

I went to Sally's Beauty Supply and purchased the "As I Am Double Butter Cream Rich Daily Moisturizer" and applied it to my damp hair after I used their Coconut Co Wash (For information on the co wash, visit my previous blog http://lastsliceradio.blogspot.com/2013/03/i-am-coconut-cowash.html). I twisted my hair and the next day, my hair was soft like silk and really moisturized I used that stuff 4 days ago and my hair is still smooth. Again.......As I Am has won again. I really don't see myself using anything else! The price for this jar is $27.99 but like I said before, it is worth it. The smell of the product is wonderful as well. In my opinion, the product smells like Vanilla Icing. The texture of the Cream is thick so you don't need to use too much. The product comes in a 16oz Jar and it has the following natural ingredients:

CoCoa Butter
Shea Butter
Castor Oil (promotes hair growth)
Jojoba Oil
Sugar Beet Root
Wheat Germ Oil
Vegetable Glycerin
Wheat Protein Panthenol
Lanolin

Usually, Sally's Beauty Supply has deals where you get $1 to $2 off this brand but it depends on the month and which store you go to. If you purchased this product or will be, PLEASE let me know how you liked or disliked it! I'm sure you will LOVE it! Hope this helps!

-Markesha xoxo

1 Month of the Castor Oil Hair Challenge

Hey everyone!

Friday, March 15th will be my first month doing the 90 day Castor Oil Hair Challenge. So far, I have seen some major changes! I'm starting to see new growth which is thicker, my hair has more shine and is longer. Not to mention that hair has grown on the sides where it was thinning before. I am happy with the results and I can't wait to see what the next 2 months will bring!

As I stated in my last blog (http://lastsliceradio.blogspot.com/2013/02/castor-oil-challenge.html) , i'm using Jamaican Black Castor Oil. I add the Castor Oil to my ends and Scalp about 3-4 times a week. I don't use much because this stuff is really thick and can weigh your hair down. I've heard people complain about the "smokey" smell to it but to be honest with you, I don't smell it much. My friends haven't noticed the smell either so it's bad as some think it is.

If you are interested in doing the 90 Day Castor Oil Challenge, I recommend that you visit my first blog posted back on February 14th. I have nothing bad to say about the challenge so I encourage everyone who is trying to grow thicker and longer hair to do this! Below is a picture of my hair. The edges are thicker than what they have been since I added a relaxer to my hair back in July 2012. Right now my hair is in a "Twisted thingie" (lol) so next month, I will post a March and April picture of the length of my hair :-). If you have any questions, please feel free to leave your question in the comment section below. I do respond ;-)

-Markesha xoxo

Wet n Wild is making a comeback

Hello Lovers,

Back in the 90's, Wet n Wild was a huge brand in cosmetics. In the early 2000's, you didn't hear much about them. I must admit, I didn't think Wet n Wild was even in business anymore. Just recently, I came across the brand in a store. I purchased the Wet n Wild Megalast Nailpolish in the color "I Red a Good Book/Balton Rouge". I went home and applied it on my nails. I LOVED it! Later I purchased the colors "2% Milk" and "Candy-licious". Both are also wonderful. The brand made a huge improvement on the brushes. Wet n Wild now has a Mani Curve Pro Brush that does not run off your fingernail and onto your skin. The polish is thick enough to apply one coat too! Usually, when I apply nail polish on my nails, I have to apply 2-3 coats and they chip the next day. With this nail polish, it lasted a whole week! I was so amazed. I told my cohost Tamika to buy the product and she loved it too! She purchased the color "Disturbia". She also said that it only took her one coat of paint to do her nails. I can't wait for Wet n Wild to come out with some Spring colors because i'll definitely stock up on them ;-). Another good thing about Wet n Wild is that you're not paying a ton of money to get a Salon look. Lately, I have noticed that other nail polish brands are tying to charge almost $10.00 for one small bottle of polish.

Another product that Tamika and I love from Wet n Wild is their Lipsticks. I have only purchased the colors "Dollhouse Pink" and "Bare it all" but I plan to buy more colors from this brand because the colors are awesome!!!! They stay on your lips all day and they have a creamy look and feel. The color will not fade later in the day.

Last thing I have purchased from Wet n Wild is "Cover All". It's a cover stick that hides dark marks and blemishes on your face. Apply the stick on the parts of your face that needs it then put on your makeup. That's it!!! It truly hides your dark marks! I can't wait to try the many other products that Wet n Wild has to offer because honestly, I don't have anything negative to say about this brand!

-Markesha xoxo

Nude Lips and High Heels

Hello Lovers <3

So I see some trends coming up in 2013 and that's Nude Lips and Platform Heels. I'm a Pencil Heel Stiletto girl but I might have to grab myself a pair of chunky heels. The platform heels remind me of the 70's which I am a HUGE fan of that era. From the Bell Bottom Jeans to the Afro's, I love it all. Spikes on Platforms are also in too!
Another trend is Nude Lips which I am sooooo happy because nude lips are sexy to me. I have the color "Bare it all" by Wet N' Wild and I absolutely LOVE IT! Unlike Red or Pink lipstick, nude goes with anything and gives you that "natural" sexy look. Give me a pair of Platform Heels, a tight fitted T-Shirt, Nude Lipstick and a nice bracelet and BAM, I'm ready to step out!

I'll be giving you more Fashion Trends soon to stay tuned!

-Markesha xoxo

"As I Am" Coconut CoWash

I was in Sally's Beauty Supply one day and noticed an entire shelf of "As I Am" towards the back. I paid them no mind until one day, I came across a YouTube video talking about the Coconut CoWash. I listened to this woman rave about this product for 8 minutes. I did a little more research and decided that I was going to purchase this product. Soooooo glad that I did!!!! This product helps maintain moisture, add more moisture and retain moisture-something that your hair really needs. The best part about this stuff is that it contains organic ingredients that helps promote hair growth such as Tangerine, Coconut Oil, Castor Oil, Saw Palmetto and Phytosterols.
The Coconut CoWash removes any product reside which is AWESOME!! Right now, I am doing the 90 day Castor Oil Challenge and as some of you know, Castor oil is really thick! After I washed this stuff out of my hair, once I put a comb through it, you can hear a "squeaky" sound.....which means my hair was "squeaky" clean :-D. I twisted my hair and applied the "As I Am Twist Defining Cream" (will post a blog about that later) and the next day, my hair was so soft and moisturized. I fell in LOVE!!!!! I bought a few of the As I Am products (it's a little expensive but worth the money) and I've been satisfied with every single one. As I Am will be the product that I continue to use. I have tried so many other products that did no justice but this stuff.....it's the one! I recommend EVERYBODY to try it! If you do, please let me know how you like it!

How to use: Wet Hair. Rub a liberal amount within palms and distribute throughout hair. Work product through hair and message onto scalp as you would a conventional shampoo. Carefully detangle hair with a wide-tooth comb, then rinse well. Repeat only if necessary to remove excessive product build up.

Castor Oil Challenge

Okay ladies and gentlemen, I (Markesha) will be doing the 90 day Castor Oil Challenge starting March 1st 2013. After of months of doing my own research, I found that tons of people who add 100% Castor Oil to their hair and ends for 90 days see a drastic change in their hair......for the better! People have stated that not only does their hair get thicker and stronger, they see a change in length too. After FINALLY finding a beauty store that sells Castor Oil that's NOT compressed, I decided to do the challenge and post pictures bi weekly of the progress. If you would like to know more about the Castor Oil Challenge, please feel free to leave a comment or email me at lastsliceradio@gmail.com for details. Here's a picture of the Castor oil that I purchased.

SCANDAL

So, I know this show is already in the second season, and if you have been watching then you will be able to concur that this show is the best scripted drama on a broadcast network right now. The plot line is about a lawyer (Olivia Pope) who "fixes" things when people have found themselves in sticky situations. She was a white house representative who, also lead the election campaign for the president all while engaging in an affair...with the president! She left the white house to run her own crisis management firm, but finds herself in a few sticky situations as well. Her staff are her right hands and will do anything for the people in need. Including lie, cheat and steal. She struggles to contain her personal affairs while juggling her clients' crisis. Olivia tries to end her "fling" with the president (Fitzgerald Grant) but he is reluctant to let her go. After all, they do share a secret that could end both of their careers! When the president's life is in danger, Olivia finds herself torn between her feelings and her loyalty to her firm. I don't want to be a spoiler so I won't get too in depth, but this series is a must see. You will find yourself intrigued by the plot and desperate for the thrill of the twists and turns you will encounter while tuning in. It comes on ABC at 10pm EST on Thursdays. This show is awesome, It has everything you want in a show, mystery, intrigue, conspiracy, and murder. I don't know anyone who doesn't enjoy it.

Josie Maran Argan Oil

I have a new obsession with moisturizers since I'm getting older. I heard about this Argan Oil while watching QVC on a late night. They were talking about all the attributes to using this as a skin moisturizer. The first thing being that it is 100% organic. According to their website it is formulated without:

- Parabens
- Sulfates
- Synthetic Fragrances
- Synthetic Dyes
- Petrochemicals
- Phthalates
- GMOs- Triclosan

Argan Oil is derived from the Moroccan tree grown in Morocco. It contains vitamin E and essential fatty acids. Argan oil itself is said to have anti-aging properties. Now, I know you might hear the words oil and face and think oh no, this will NOT be going on my face! Well during the programming on QVC they discussed how if you add essential oils to your skin, your body will not work as hard to produce oil. Instead, it will just give you moisture. I completely agree. Since I started using this my face is not as oily as usual, just soft and moisturized. My skin is bright and smooth. This has not caused any breakouts. It is lightweight, fast absorbing and can also be used as a cuticle or hair conditioner. I ordered mine at sephora.com for around $48 for the 1.7 oz. That's ok because a little goes a long way. They also have it available with SPF in it, which I also own, but I don't enjoy the fragrance of that one. Give it a try! This can be used by men and women alike. I will be purchasing from the Josie Maran product line in the future. This makes me curious about her other products in her makeup line which all contain argon oil.

L'oreal True Match Concealer Crayon

L'oreal True Match Concealer Crayon Is an awesome concealer! This comes in 6 different shades to compliment different skin tones. I do wish they had more of a selection when it comes to the variety of shades. However the performance of this concealer is outstanding!! Its "super blendable" as stated on the product itself, it stays all day, and because it's so blendable you never have to worry about being a cake face. You select your shade by choosing you skin's undertone. I have a neutral undertone but neutral undertones don't have much to choose from in the collection, so I ended up getting a warm tone to cover the darkness that is under my eyes that is being caused by the lack of sleep I'm getting. It works out great. The consistency is similar to MAC's studio fix concealer in the pot. The best part is that it comes in a plastic package with the ability to twist up and down to access the product. No having to take the time to sharpen this "crayon"! And, no mess! Sometime MAC's concealer in the pot can be a little messy. Then you have to clean the brush or your finger you used with the product. This crayon makes my life so much easier. Try it for a reasonable $7.49 at drugstores.

Mystic Divine Nourishing Masque

I've been doing the natural hair thing for about 4  1/2 months now and I came across this hair masque called "Mystic Divine". I LOVE the way it makes my hair feel!!! You use this 1-2 times per week as your substitute conditioner. It leaves your ends not only feeling soft, but moisturized. As we all should know........keeping your ends moisturized is VERY important as it's the oldest part of your hair. Show your ends some love by purchasing this product. I bought this stuff at Sally's Beauty Supply for $8.00. That may be a little pricey to some of you but trust me, it's worth every penny. Might I also add......smells GREAT! This is what I do:

Step 1: Wash your hair with shampoo (I use Nutri-Ox which has biotin in it)
Step 2: Add Mystic Diving conditioner to your ends
Step 3: Let sit for 3-5 minutes (or longer if you wish)
Step 4: Rinse
Step 5: Style, braid or wrap your hair

I usually wear a conditioning cap (which you can also buy at Sally's) when I have this conditioner on. The conditioning cap warms up the conditioner which is good. After I wash the stuff out, I braid my hair, add a clip to the ends (I do not use rubber bands as they break your ends) then place a satin cap or scarf on my head. A few hours later or the next day, I unbraid my hair, put a small amount of Castor Oil to my hair (I'll submit a blog about that later) then go on with my day. My hair is wavey, soft and moisturized. I hope this was a blessing to someone out there ;-). Let me know what you think if you have purchased Mystic Divine.

-Markesha xoxo

Where all my hot girls at??? (Did you raise your hand?) So, it's no secret that I'm a fragrance whore. I have so many fragrances and this lands a spot in my top three. Ricci Ricci by Nina Ricci. This is the sexist fragrance I have tried. I know a lot of parfums claim to be sexy, but then you get a whiff of them and you're reminded of some old lady that just took a bath in irish fresh and dried with linens! That's ok, if you're into the whole smelling like soap all the time thing, but I am not a fan. This parfum is described as a fresh, floral, sensual fragrance. Ricci Ricci features notes of rhubarb zest, bergamot, moonflower, tuberose, centifolia rose, patchouli and sandalwood. It does start as a fresh, woody, floral, but then as it sits on the skin the fruitiness of the rhubarb chimes in. And WOW is it amazing. I thought rhubarb would be a little too much of a tang but, it is just the right amount of sweetness! It lasts a long time. I can still smell Ricci Ricci on my skin and bed spread the next day! A secret weapon for sure! The men will love you. I get compliments daily on how good I smell. Now, shhhh! Don't tell nobody else!

So, I know natural hair girls are going to be cringing everywhere, but for all my ladies who still enjoy a good blow out or flat iron, here is the heat tamer of your dreams. It is water based, and also works to detangle.

I love this spray especially for detangling my hair after I wash it, rather I am going to blow dry or not(I usually air dry). My hair is about as tangled as it gets, so if it works for me, you are sure to love it. This leaves your hair soft, smooth, and sleek, and it is not sticky at all. And, check this out ladies, it's only going to run you around 3.99 at drugstores! Yes! a drugstore treasure and a definite fave of mine!

Ganache

This is the Chocolate Ganache Supreme Cake I tried for the first time yesterday. I didn't have the whole cake just a slice from Publix's Bakery. I had always wondered what a ganache cake taste like so I finally took a chance. I made the correct choice! I guess this cake can be made in different ways. The one I had was a chocolate cake layered with white cream filling. I never had a slice of cake taste this good before. I'm going to definitely find a good recipe for it and make it one of my signature cakes just like my Red Velvet recipe!

Sweets!

I just tried my first slice of chocolate ganache cake and it was AMAZING!!!