Sincerely, Subi

Featured

Back for the Long Haul

Hey there,

My my my has it been a while. The seasons have changed, the world has changed, and so has the year. I met all my goals for 2017, finally committed to creating content as an influencer, I wrote more, and then stopped writing. In 2017 I came face to face with my biggest insecurities and turned my beauty into strength. In October I had my first car accident that almost took my life, and since changed my outlook on living ever since. When I look back on all that has happened in my life, the good, the bad, I’m reminded of the importance being in tune: mentally, physically and emotionally. Today I’m here to make a pact with myself.

I will not run myself dry. — In the past two years I have learned so much about myself. Throughout the year I check, in with my closest friends and ask if there is anything that I could work on, to be a better friend, person, and better me. One of the biggest realizations that I had, thanks to a friend, is that I had FOMO. Jeannette if you’re reading this, thank you. I had no idea what this was, never heard of it or even remotely familiar with the phrase. Fear of Missing Out. For so long I had prided myself on always being busy and staying busy that I didn’t understand that all busy is not good busy. When an opportunity would come my way, I would take it. I told myself that “when will I get an opportunity like this again.” Or “I can move somethings around and make this work.” Maybe it was the people-pleaser in me, but I could not bring myself to decline an opportunity, even if it meant giving up essential things I needed to thrive. I became overwhelmed, stressed, and tired as hell. Having that conversation, with someone who knew me so well, was refreshing and so necessary. She saw right through me and was able to act as a mirror, to let me know that sometimes that tiredness I’m feeling should not be ignored, and taking care of me was important too. So this year I plan to keep my cup full and remain in tune with myself so that when the time comes to say no, or yes, I will do it wholeheartedly and be sure of myself.

I will not accept less than what I know I deserve. — There is no big story here. Just a fact that women, and men, everywhere should say aloud on the daily. There is no reason why anyone, anywhere should have to compromise a part of themselves or take less than what is written for them. If only you would have fought for that raise, maybe you should have been upfront with that brand about what your rates for promotions were, maybe you should have told your significant other/ person where you truly stand. Anytime you find yourself willing to make a decision to please someone else and you are not at peace, repeat the phrase in your head, aloud even. “I will not accept less than what I know I deserve.” Apply this to your relationships- business and professional – and the rest will fall into place. As Drake would say, “Know yourself, know your worth.” This mentality is one I will say daily.

More Creating. — Albert Camus said, “To create is to live twice.” When I came back from France two years ago, everything fell into place. I started writing and documenting my travels, my journey through life became a story that I had no trouble sharing. I was on a roll, my happiest times were documented and I felt alive and free, I was doing school, and writing for a magazine, and doing it well. Somewhere along the way I just decided, eh, kinda want to be a hermit right now so no more. I’m good. But I missed it. And I’m making a pact with myself to keep going. Keep doing. More creating. Because it makes my heart sing, because new experiences fuel me, and adventures bring me joy. So I will continue to do what I love – whether that be to write, to sing, to dance, to love, and document it all. To have a space to look back on this wonderfull life and say, “yea, I did that.”

No more dreaming. — “Be. Don’t try to become.” – Osho For all the people in the world who say, “man I would love to go to Europe,” or “If only I had the courage to start my youtube channel.” Maybe you’re the one in the room who makes promises to yourself. “I’m going to try to be better at this,” or “my biggest dream is to go to Martinique.” There are people in the world who took wishful thinking and turned it into a plan of action. They’ve been to Europe. Your favorite blog? Yea, they run that. Mozambique? They went there last week. What I mean to say is that while you are sitting there and dreaming, someone has already done, or is doing it. And you can too. You want to go to Istanbul? Make a plan, do your research, talk to people who have been there, save that money! Easier said than done, but if it was easy, everyone would be doing it. I have a saying that I’ve started saying often, and it’s growing on me. “Nothing will happen unless you make it so.” No longer am I going to dream about what I want my life to look like, but rather make it so. If I want to have a good day, I’m going to get up and head to the gym, because I know that’s what gets me moving and ready to be awesome. If I want to feel good, I’m going to listen to my body and stay away from dairy and meat, because I know it doesn’t make my body feel good. I want to work with a brand? I’m sending that email, trying their products so they know I am an active customer and am genuinely here for more than just the perks. So no more dreaming, instead I will do.

Trust The Process. — Quite possibly one of the most important things to keep in mind in order to live a life of peace and well-being. I always say that what is for you, God has already written. So there is no need to fear for the future. I remind myself of this every day. To put forth the work and effort on my part, and then give the rest to God, because past that point there is nothing else I can do. All of my triumphs, my greatest moments are because of Him. So that is my promise, my mantra for 2018; my mantra for life.

Sending hugs through the internet waves,

Subi

Featured

Why I love Fabletics

Hey There!

First things first! Hello! It’s been a long time guys!! A lot has happened in my world, one of the biggest being that I am now writing for Curly Hair Magazine!!! As platform based in London, there are writers all over the world, and now I am one of them. This feels so good; now my work will be out there for everyone to see. What a feeling, what a life. Thank you for all the support of the blog and all my ventures. Stay tuned for more announcements. xoxo

Let’s talk athletic wear. Ever hear of Fabletics? From the moment Kate Hudson first launched Fabletics, I have been here. ⚡️Between leggings that always fit my long legs to the crop tops that hug my short torso just right, I know @fabletics is the one place I can always go to for the best quality and poppin collection of athletic (and leisure wear bc we all know these leggings will make more appearances at the mall!). It started off with a pair of leggings and a sport bra, and since then, Fabletics has been the only company that I loyally buy athletic wear from. It’s a company that runs through subscription, so on the first of every month, the new prints and combinations are released and you have until the 5th of the month to either purchase something, or skip the month. The sets range from $49.95-$70 and I usually stick with the $50 option. Now, Don’t panic, because these clothes are excellent quality. I bought my first pair of leggings 5 years ago, and I still have it; every time I wash it it looks good as new!

My favorite thing about my Fabletics picks is that I feel good in them, and comfortable. This particular outfit is called “Guyana.” The top is “Kailey” and the leggings are the “Lisette” High- Waisted 7/8 Capri. My legs are long, and my torso is short, so I really like high waisted pants and the capris are just a plus. As you can see, I was out an about – not in the gym!! But the material felt great, I felt cool in the leggings even though this was a hot day. I really like the string-open back of the Kaile top the most. The top comes with a bra panel and removable cups so you can feel free with some coverage! Oh, and don’t worry, the back is adjustable.

Ahh, in a future life I’m a model commissioned for my long legs and full head of hair… Here’s to wishful thinking! @katehudson if you’re ever looking for a high energy, natural curly haired girl who loves this brand, loves working out, and wants to bring a pop to your collections and shoots, you know where to find me🌻

Shop for all your comfortable athletic wear needs at Fabletics, ladies. When you sign up now, you get 2 pairs of The Best Leggings Ever for just $24!

This post is not affiliated, or sponsored by Fabletics in any way shape or form.

Wishing you good vibes and a tall glass of French wine on this beautiful day!

Sincerely,

Subi

As seen on: Curly Hair Magazine

Featured

I Got a Plant!!

Hey there!

Welcome back to my little sunshine blog! If this is the first time you’re seeing my blog, take a look around! I’m trying to provide more content that’s more than reviews and natural hair products, so let me know if you guys like this!

It’s final exam season at my University and there is stress all around. People are staying up until 5 am with classes at 9 am, students are grabbing fast food in an attempt to combat hunger and most of all, we are spending so much time inside and under artificial light. There came to a point in time this week where I asked myself, “when was the last time you sat outside, smelled the flowers?” I couldn’t answer the question. So one day as I was walking to the bus (woohoo for public transportation) I saw there was a little plant sale going on in the plaza. I had 5 minutes until the bus pulled up and all I could think was that I had to have a plant! Three minutes and $5 later, I was the owner of this little beauty! I don’t even know what the plant is called, there are 4 types in the pot, but it brought so much light and life into my apartment and life was so good in that moment.

This little guy is going to live on my window sill for the time being. Maybe I’ll buy some more so he doesn’t get lonely! Nature and being centered is so important to me so I love the idea of plants surrounding me and attracting light into different spaces.

Don’t forget to subscribe, let me know what you guys want to see, what you thought of the post, or if you just want to say hi! Follow me on social media, all of those are on the Contact Page. Wishing all of you a happy end of the semester and sending you good vibes always and a spirit of calm in this stressful time!

Sincerely,

Subi

Featured

My Happiest Place on Earth

Hello there! It’s been such a long time since I’ve updated you guys on my travels. I had no idea I would be as busy as I’ve been, but I’ve finally had a chance to sit down and write a few entries! Here are 3 things that I’ve had on my list for a while and finally got to check off!

We came into Paris on a windy day of October. Back in Montpellier, they were warning us that the weather might be cold, rainy, un-agreeable even, but we got lucky and the whole weekend was just gorgeous. As soon as we stepped out of the train and onto the platform, I just knew I was home. We walked to our hotel and dropped our bags off, freshened up, and set off to make some dreams come true.

Stop #1: Ladurée AKA the Heaven of Macaron.

If no one knows what Ladurée is, you have to listen. There is literally no place like this on earth. Here’s some history:

Parisian tea rooms’ history is intimately tied to the
history of the Ladurée family. It all began in 1862, when
Louis Ernest Ladurée, a miller from the southwest of
France, founded a bakery in Paris at 16 rue Royale.
In 1871, while Baron Haussmann was giving
Paris a « new face », a fire in the bakery opened
the opportunity to transform it into a pastry shop… And the rest is history! This tea hose has the best macaron in the world, not to be confused with macaroons which are the coconut swirl of a desert widely found in America. Thy have flavors that range from coconut (niox de coco) to pistachio (pistache) and even rose petal (pétale de rose)! These pastries are super delicate, so don’t throw it in your bag or drop them , because they will crumble into a million delicious pieces! I waited to try macaron for the first time in France, and they were amazing. If anyone ever goes to Paris, don’t leave without trying them first!

Stop #2 Trying Escargot for the first time.

The parsley and butter sauce is marinating in the escargot just right!

These Escargot were actually really good!

When you go to France, do as the French do, yes? It’s commonplace to have escargot, or snail, as an appetizer, or entrée when having a traditional 4 course dinner in France. So naturally, I wanted the whole experience! Only served as an entrée, escargot are not hard to cook. Chefs typically cook them in a simple reduction of butter, thyme, parsley, salt and pepper. The snails cook in this simple sauce for less than 25 minutes and then they’re ready to go! Escargot are served in a dish that has a concave hole for the shells to rest in –>

I thought that it would taste weird – or slimy even, but it was surprisingly pretty firm, like a properly cooked shrimp or conch, which is a sea-snail that shows up in Caribbean fare. It’s pretty safe to say that I’ve found a new favorite appetizer! Now if only I could find this on a menu in the States…

Stop #3 Dreams Really do Come True

You know that feeling that you get when everything feels right in your world and all things suddenly click into place? That’s exactly how I felt when I saw the Eiffel Tower for the First time. Two of my friends had already been to Paris, so they were excited, that I was excited. They were telling me that as soon as I turned the corner from the metro stop I would be able to see it. I had been dreaming of this moment since I was 5 and I though about it as a real thought in the 8th grade and started learning French, but I never wrapped my head around the idea of actually seeing it.

We turned the corner and I laid eyes on the Eiffel Tower for the first time and like the Cancer that I am, I got emotional and couldn’t help but burst into tears. Suddenly all my hard work, all the sleepless nights studying and missing events to get ahead on assignments, were all worth it. And I couldn’t be happier. We went back to the Eiffel tower every day after that, and one night to see it light up on the hour. It took my breath away.

Guys, when you’ve found your happiest place on earth, write to me, comment and let me know, but I can tell you right now, I’ve found mine. I’ve never been so content then when I was in Paris for those 3 glorious days, and this was only day one! This city has stolen my heart and I can’t wait until I go back.

Never stop chasing your dreams, don’t ever settle and keep pushing because the finish line is closer than you think. Don’t forget to comment, subscribe, and let me know what you think guys, I want to hear from you! Be blessed ☀️

Sincerely,

Subi

Serious FOMO is a NO GO

You know that feeling you get when something is going on and you’re not there but I just want to be a part of it? Or when you see a friend in a relationship and how much fun they’re having, and you wonder, when will it be my turn? What about just sitting at home, scrolling on social media and you see someone you follow, maybe even admire, and you think, wow their life is so much more interesting than mine. Pretty soon you’ll be in a place of asking yourself how far you’ve come and what do you have to show for it in comparison to them, and before you know it, you’re dissatisfied with so many things that may actually be accomplishments and victories of yours. You, my friend, have FOMO.

What is FOMO? Also known as the fear of missing out, it is actually a form of social anxiety – a compulsive concern that one might miss an opportunity or satisfying event, often sparked by posts seen on social media websites. This could be anything ranging from the most minor, wanting to be the first in line because you’re anxious about getting good concert seats, or even the ones I mentioned above.

When I was in college, I had serious FOMO. I used to get minimal sleep because I would go to every event, every party that I could, fit in a seminar and spread myself thin all because I was afraid that I might miss something. When I was in high school, I wanted to be in college, and when I was in college, I couldn’t wait to grow up so that I could be in the real world and far away from my campus. It wasn’t until a really good friend of mine, and to this day she is much like a sister, told me, “Subi, you’re always doing something. You have serious FOMO, hun.” Number one I had never heard that word before. Number two, because I had no idea what it was, I was all the more offended! So I asked and she explained to me that the more we feel a need to be elsewhere, anywhere other than the present and growing, truly living in the moment, the more unhealthy we don’t realize we are. I had FOMO of the future. I was so caught up in rushing into the next step in life, so sure that what was ahead was so much better and worth my time than where I currently was, that I had allowed so much to pass me by. But most of all, I was wasting time in the present.

A decision had to be made about how I wanted to proceed. I could brush it off and keep doing the same old thing. Or, I could make a conscious decision to live in and appreciate the present for what it was. This is much easier said than done. For some, all it takes is an alteration of what you focus your attention on. Dwell less on the possibility of a loss: time, memory making, travel, likes on social media, and hone in more on immediate achievement, benefits, and payoffs. Write down some goals that you want to work toward, and set intentions to get right where you want to be, by being the best version of yourself in the present. Clear your social media feed of anyone and anything that is not mentally healthy or inspiring. Follow people who inspire your creative interest and Focus more on what is occurring in the now.

The person I am today is not who I was four years ago. I look back and shake my head at all the time that I wasted, hoping to be somewhere, anywhere other than where I was, but I also smile. Being in that space taught me how precious living in the now is. The present is my favorite place to be now; I am learning so much about myself and am pushing myself to be better than who I was yesterday. That is the only person or thing that anyone should have FOMO about. Leave room for more celebration of the little things, all your little things. Xoxo.

Sincerely,

Subi

#SoloTravelWithSubi | Glamping in Venice, Italy

On September 25, 2018, my journey began. This trip was not supposed to happen, nothing was going as planned, but something in the air told me to take a leap of faith and “just do it.” So, I packed my bags in haste and booked a night flight to Venice, Italy. Sitting at the gate, I was tired, hungry, but still in good spirits. There was an empty seat in first class an upgrade and I was so grateful. The food was yummy, it was quiet and I was able to journal, watch movies and really relax. In this time of transition from college to working in the real world, I really needed a reminder of what I was passionate about. To center.

September 26, 2018. I made it. All of this space and it was all mine for the next two days! No worries, no phone calls, no text messages, no notifications. Just me. The tent had enough space for myself and three other people. This tent was made for sharing. But sometimes, a little selfishness is what we all need. Thanks to winning an Instagram contest launched by @YouMeTravelCo and Sponsored by @GoOutsideIt, I was set to be here for 3 days and 2 nights under the stars in Italy, and I was so excited. Glamping was something that was new to me, none of my friends had ever done it, so this experience was unchartered territory.

What is “glamping?”Glamping is a portmanteau of glamorous and camping and describes a style of camping with amenities and, in some cases, resort-style services not usually associated with “traditional” camping. My version was a bit more humble than the over the top luxury, but it was luxurious to me okayyyy!! The whole experience from the moment I stepped onto the grounds was so peaceful. I loved every second. The tent was spacious, with three beds total, two twin and one full, so the tent can ideally fit 5 people if you include the couch.

There was a full range kitchen just outside the tent for me to cook, and that is one of my passions, cooking, and it’s something that I don’t get to do very often, seeing as I’m never home long enough. I was able to buy fresh groceries at the store built for the campsite just a few feet away from my tent, and I sang and danced in the kitchen, around fresh air and open sky

My favorite part of the trip was my day on the beach. What a liberating experience. I put my wireless headphones on and blasted Afrobeats, Soka, Compa, Caribbean music, anything that made me happy, I listened to it. I closed my eyes and spun around, dancing laughing, not caring who saw me, because this was my therapy moment. Releasing the kid inside and just dancing it out without a care as to who was judging or watching me. I danced for all the days that I was frustrated, wanting an outcome that did not go my way. I danced for the triumphs in my life, all the good things and amazing feats that I had accomplished for a young woman my age, and I danced for the future. There are so many good things ahead of me, all I have to do is work hard, pray harder, and be persistent and consistent. It was so freeing, and it gave me hope that somewhere in the world there was a young girl doing the same, dancing it out and living in the moment, because once you go to bed, that day is gone. Don’t cry, don’t dwell in sorrow, dance it out.

Traveling solo, you have to take your own pictures, and you have to get creative. While on the beach, I propped my phone on a rick and stood it up with my bag, placed the camera on a timer and ran to do poses!

If you’re ever alone and you want pictures taken, and want to get the exact shot you want, get creative, have fun with it! Use the objects around you to make your vision come to light. Whether it’s a tripod, a stack of books or even some rocks on the beach, you can make your surroundings work for you.Each night I wrote in my journal in order to really capture my feelings and reflect on what each day there taught me. The biggest thing that I can say is that this trip gave me an opportunity to be with myself, to really check – in and be sure that I was right where I needed to be, and I wish I could do it all over again. If you want to see more of my trip, and really get a feel for the experience, head to my YouTube and watch the whole vlog here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ccWkQMELxAw

Thank you so much for reading! Have you ever wanted to solo travel? Let me know in the comments below where you plan to visit!

P.S. Here are some shots I took from the plane looking over Italy!

xoxo,

Sincerely, Subi

Neutrogena Naturals | Product Review

Hey there guys!! Ah! I love skincare, facial and body skincare, I love it all! I wouldn’t call myself a product junkie, but I would say that I am willing and open to trying almost anything new as long as i is good for the body, natural and if I’ve done research on it. This is about a skin care line that made me reconsider becoming a customer again.

I entered a giveaway on @curlsandcouture‘s Instagram and won a couple of products from the new Neutrogena Naturals Line. I have very sensitive skin – very much acne prone since ceasing my use of a very powerful acne regimen- and I tried almost everything Neutrogena. I tried the sensitive sin line, the acne clear line, I tried the Deep Clean Scrub, everything. And I had given up, but when I saw the giveaway on Instagram, I decided to do some research.

From the website: “Every Neutrogena^® Naturals product is made according to our core values, with the same standards of efficacy and excellence as everyNeutrogena^® product you know and trust — to create pure skincare from nature. With natural plant-derived ingredients, the average of our line is 94% natural. Products Not Tested on Animals. Up to 50% post-consumer recycled content in our bottles. Our folding cartons are made from 100% recycled paper with up to 60% post-consumer recycled content. Partnered with The Nature Conservancy to protect natural sources of clean water for people, plants and animals.”

The brand uses 5 effective ingredients to cleanse and purify the skin: Tara Seed: It works to build moisture levels with the skin, rich in Vitamins B, C, and complex sugars. Willowbark: this contains a “beta hydroxy acid,” this ingredient is known for its ability to detoxify. Inca Inchi Oil: full of omega fatty acids. Yerba Mate Leaf Extract: a powerful anti‐oxidant that contains bio-nutrients and Vitamins B, C and E. Lemon Peel: this brightens and visibly tones the skin.

Courtney’s giveaway included 5 products: Purifying Makeup Remover Cleansing Wipes, Purifying Facial Cleanser, Purifying Cream Cleanser, Purifying Pore Scrub, and the Multi-Vitamin Nourishing Moisturizer. I didn’t know where to start, but I got it down to a little post-make-up routine.

My Favorite products in the line are the Purifying Makeup Remover Cleansing Wipes, the Purifying Cream Cleanser, Purifying Pore Scrub, and the Multi-Vitamin Nourishing Moisturizer. The products are gentle but effective and I am really happy with how my skin has maintained since using it (about 4 months). I’ve had a little trouble with the pump of the Purifying Facial Cleanser, it won’t open for some reason, but the Neutrogena team assured me that they’ll get another one to me soon! These products have been lasting me so long – I travel with them in small quantities, and I am always finding new combinations for them. I am for sure a Neutrogena customer again!

neutrogena.com/naturals

xoxo, Sincerely,

Subi

#OneDay : In Milano, Italy

I know, I know. I know what you’re thinking: This is about to be a post about visiting Milan in the summer and walking the streets of the city, catching a train to a swanky Italian club, good pasta, and an unexpected something. Well. I can tell you right now, this is not what you think. Bear with me, because this might just be worth your time. And, did I really just use the word swanky?

Stay: Meliá Milano Via Masaccio, 19, 20149 Milano MI, Italy Phone: +39 02 44406

This place is stunning. Now, it’s not hotel Shangrila, but it comes pretty close. 8 floors, outside the city center, stained glass ceiling panels, comfortable beds. I walk into the lobby and everything is well lit, of course, it’s 8 in the morning, but this is Italy, come on, everything looks glamorous. My room is this modest but complete amenity heaven. Queen bed with down sheets, fully stocked fridge, Lights that change the mood at the touch of a touch-screen, and the best part: the bathroom.

Now, I love bathrooms, I do. I’m that person that judges a place on the condition and feel of the bathroom, how weird am I, right? Well, I don’t care, because this bathroom was it. Glass paneled shower, plush towels, and a toilet with a bidet head. You’re wondering why that’s so important now, but you spend a day walking around in the hot Italian sun and look me in the eye and say you dont wish there was a bidet in your room. Haaaaa That’s what I thought. It was a lovely stay.

Walk: Literally Everywhere.

Yes, there’s a metro. Yes, there are rentable bikes, and yes, there are taxis. Truthfully, I couldn’t find a console to buy a metro ticket, and after further research, they could only be purchased from a few select stations, so I was out of luck. This was nothing like France. That aside, yes, walk everywhere. I encourage it; you get a feel for the true nature of Milan and the people who live there when you’re not hopping from tourist attraction to landmark. After checking my iPhone, I found out that I had walked some 13 miles which is not too shabby!! My feet were killing me by the end of the night but I did not care- I loved every minute.

Visit: Parco Sempione Piazza Sempione, 20154 Milano MI, Italy Phone:+39 02 8846 7383

A beautiful park in the center of the city, this made me realize the true appreciation I have for cities with a healthy balance between nature and man-made. The park is lovely, with side cafes, a playground, and a full-on bar. Very European. A playground a couple of steps away from one of the many entrances, and a dirt path looping around and through the entire park. I walked around for an hour, people watching mostly, and listening to see if I could make sense of any conversation with the French that I knew. I picked out a few words. My favorite part of all in Sempione was the pond. I fed the ducks, and I should have been better with taking pictures, but this moment was just for me. It was so fun, I don’t think I’ve ever just taken a minute to feed the ducks alone like that, and it was calm and cool in the shade of the willow trees.

Eat: Serendib Indian & Sri Lankan Cuisine Via Pontida, 2, 20121 Milano MI, Italy Phone: +39 02 659 2139

Mango Chutney, Green Cilantro Spicy, Plum Chutney

Aubergine in Spices, Potato Curry and Stewed Lentils

Before you roll your eyes, take a second. Sri Lankan in Italy? You’d be surprised about the Asian population in Italy – I have to go back and more research. But this restaurant. This place was amazing! So authentic and genuine, the owner really cares about his guests. I was new in Milan and I needed good food that’s wasn’t pasta, know what I mean? I was so pleased with my choice. Serendib is in this side street off the main square and it doesn’t look like much when you walk up, but inside is gorgeous. Authentic decor, truly amazing smells of food and the promise of a good meal. I knew walking in that I was going to want to stay forever. They delivered. I had the vegan sampler: potato samosas as a starter and a main course of eggplant in traditional spices, potatoes, mixed veggies, and biryani so good it’ll make you fly to Milan just for a taste. And order the mango juice- with ic, bc disclaimer, (Europeans do not do ice in their drinks unless upon request) – it’s so good!!!

All in all, Milan is a flex zone! Got there if you want to shop, or if you’re with your girls, your significant other, your lover. Go if you’re ready to stunttt, and shop, and all the boogie glamorous things. I was not ready, but I will be next time. The time was too short!! It really I need to go back. And next time, yes yes, I will try the pasta.

Tocaya Organica: Restaurant Review

Hey there pals!!

A couple of weeks ago I went on a spontaneous week-long trip to California and it was much needed let me tell you!!! I had so many feel-good-feelings and the good vibes were in abundance, it was insane! I can’t wait to go back– while I was there I ate some pretty amazing food too. Of course, I didn’t want to leave all of you out of it, so I recorded everything. This place was one of my favorites.

Tocaya Organica — This restaurant was founded in 2016, and has changed the concept of organic Mexican Food. All of the ingredients are locally sourced and organic, no doubt with a title like this one. The whole menu is chef-driven and Tocaya Organica only serves meats and fish that are fresh, never frozen, and are 100% percent free of hormones, steroids, and antibiotics.

From the first moment that I walked up to the restaurant, I feel. My friend Elisabeth was traveling with me, and she chose the place to eat! There were so many good options, but my favorite thing about the restaurant was that I didn’t have to fight for a good, filling vegan option!

We wanted to try as much as we could, so I decided on the combo of 2 tacos, 2 sides, and a drink for $9.95 USD – not bad, right!

The tacos were served in a homemade fresh corn tortilla. The taco on the left is the “BARRIO STYLE” with adobo tofu: roasted tomato salsa, avocado, diced red onion & cilantro. The taco on the right is the “BAJA CHIPOTLE” with adobo tofu: shaved cabbage, sweet chipotle sauce, cilantro & vegan chipotle crema. YUM!

And my two yummy sides, guys let me tell you!! On the left is the amazing “TORTILLA SOUP” Not only is it Vegan, but it is also Gluten Free. It is made with tomato, roasted bell pepper, avocado, vegan mozzarella & tortilla strips. The soup had so much flavor and made me warm and happy inside! Tortilla strips were topped on the soup and I enjoyed it so much. Now, the side on the right was everything I ever wanted in a guac. The “GUACAMOLE” was also Vegan and Gluten Free. It has pomegranate seeds, lime pepitas, jalapeño, cilantro and is served with house-made crispy plantain chips. What? Plantain Chips AND Guac?! You heard righttttt and it was so good!!!

I mean. just looook at that gorgeous plantain chip! It was crispy, salted just right, and not oily at all. I think all guac should be served with plantain chips this way, don’t you?

Now I’m big talk on the food, and I haven’t even gotten to the drink! This. This is the “WATERMELON LIMEADE” Squeezed fresh and made new daily. It was a thirst quencher, exactly what I needed to make all that biking along the beach worth the miles! Served in a mason jar with a paper straw, I had no complaints. This drink is a winner. The watermelon and the lime played together perfectly, one did not overpower the other. You guys have to try this!

Safe to say that I loved my experience at Tocaya Organica . There are 9 locations across California and the word is that they are expanding further!! How much do I have to beg to have this restaurant put roots down in Atlanta or New York?? Crossing my fingers on that wish, but for now, I’ll be counting down the days until I get to walk through these doors again. Thank you so much to Tocaya for this great experience! You made this newly made vegan very happy. I hope when you guys go to Cali, you take a chance on this charming little restaurant!

Sending you all the feel-good-feelings that I felt when I ate those tacos haha!!

Sincerely,

Subi xoxo

Wash N Go in a Type 4 World

Hey Curl Friends,

For those of us who have a busy day, maybe you have classes, meetings back to back or even have the days where every hour is allotted for. Where does the time go? More importantly, what time do we have to dedicate to our hair in the grand scheme of things? That’s what the wash n go was designed for. Perfect for the busiest of bodies, the wash and go is literally what it says it is- a style designed for you to wash your hair, and go, leave the house with your hair done. There’s a trick to this style, pals, don’t underestimate. For every hair type there is a method that works best, and for my naturals in the type 4 realm, maybe you’ve given up on the wash n go. Maybe your hair shrinks, it doesn’t like low manipulation styles or your hair just “doesn’t look right.” I tried something new and tested out the wash n go for myself. With the help of DevaCurl, I was able to make some shake.

I’ve added the video of my whole wash n go process with my hair onto my channel, and the video will be just below.

The DevaCurl brand has three classifications of products available for different hair textures and curl patterns: Wavy, Curly, and Super Curly. Because my hair is very thick and has tight coils, I opted for using the Super Curly kit for my hair. The Livin’ Large Super Curly Edition Bonus Kit comes with three products, the 32 fl. oz. No-poo Decadance Cleanser, the 32 fl. oz. One Condition Decadence Conditioner, and a free full-size Ultra Defining Gel (12 fl. oz.) The kit runs for $88 USD, a little pricey, but it is worth every penny.

Overall Thoughts: The scent is very clean, the DevaCurl line is one that I feel would work really well with a hair care line of similar caliber (no paraben, sulfates, or silicones) but that has a true scent. The one product that I did notice that had a scent was the SuperCream Coconut Curl Styler, and its scent was very subtle. In reference to how I felt while using it, the products, I did like that it gave me a ton of slip, which was great for detangling and there was never a moment where I felt like the product was weighing my hair down.

The Process: In the video, you’ll see me keep my hair in those four braids and this is to combat tangling at every stage of washing my hair. I love doing this, because not only does wash day go by so much faster, but I don’t have to constantly detangle my hair or spend an eternity doing so afterward. The Camille Rose Lavender Detangling Spritzer ($11.99 USD) was a plus in the process and just for good measure – plus it smells amazing! I also use a blow dryer to stretch my hair — that is the only purpose of the blowdryer, and on a cool setting that’s all it was doing. This way, my hair is elongated and I’m not damaging it with heat. After all of the product was applied I followed with the Femme Noir Flower Bomb Hair Growth Oil ($21 USD) to seal and shine. Many have asked me how my hair ended up in the shape that it did– I actually had a pin in my air as it was drying in order to manipulate the final look, so that helped a bunch, plus that’s my comfortable part.

Cons: My hair did feel a bit dry after the gel dried on my hair, and maybe that means that gel is not my thing, and because I liked the hold that it gave my hair I think I’ll try it again to be completely sure. This method did not leave my hair at it’s softest state, but it did last a long time and looked great! Again, it was my first time and where there is a will there is a way!

All in all, I really like the results! My hair lasted for 4 days which is not too bad for my first go at it! The products I used are a little on the pricey side but I promise it is so worth it! Deva Curl even has travel sizes if you want to just sample. If you guys want me to do a wash and go with drug store / more affordable hair care brands, don’t hesitate to let me know in the comments below!

Sending good energy for your next wash n go,

xoxo,

Subi

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Hourglass Cosmetics | Arch Brow : Product Review

For the days when your brows need that little extra push and pop, come thru #ArchBrow! The product was sent to me complimentary for testing, but all thoughts are my own.

I’m not one to mess with my brows. Never have I ever gone to get them waxed or threaded, but maybe when I’m bored I’ll pluck a stray hair here and there. I let them live! But when @influenster sent me the new @hourglasscosmetics Arch Brow Shaping Gel, I had to see what the hype was about. There are 6 shades and one clear in the Arch brow line ranging from Blonde to Dark Brunette, which matches with the blackest of black hair. Because I’m not the type to particularly care for the storng statement brow, and I was unsure of which color would be best for me, I opted for the clear gel.

First impression? — I posted a little video on my YouTube channel here. This was my first time using the product. The brush construction was unexpected. It’s a dual brush – 2 sided with 2 different bristle length. One is for shaping and the other for product application. As the gel that I received was clear, the difference is very subtle, but after the first brush stroke, my eyebrow hairs are definitely more clean looking than before. The brush was easy to use and it made me feel good knowing that this product was vegan, especially as one who is on a natural journey herself.

Did it help me achieve my ideal brow look? — Well, to be honest, I walked into this with no expectations whatsoever, so yes, yes it did. I suppose if I was to opt for a brow gel that was colored I might have seen more of an effect, but I was satisfied. In the video, I only apply a light brush of bronzer, no heavy makeup.
These little wonders can be found @sephora 🌺

I hope your weekend is fruitful and bright and filled with productivity, whether that means crossing tasks off your to-do list, or to tackle the mission of sleeping in order to do so. Sending hugs through the internet waves!

xoxo,

`Subi

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