Wednesday, June 1, 2016

Knot Bun Wrap Tutorial

Monday, May 30, 2016

Fleur Wrap Tutorial

Royal Wrap Tutorial

Friday, May 27, 2016

Wrap Tutorial

Thursday, July 2, 2015

Claim Your Authority - Tony Evans

Sunday, May 31, 2015

LIFE: 31 Years of Life & 31 Lessons Learned

Happy Birthday to Me!

What a blessing to be able to celebrate 31 years of life. A blessing to see another year and another day. I am truly grateful for all that I have been able to absorb and give back in the 31 years of roaming this earth. I look forward for more to come by the grace of my GOD. 

Dear 31,
1. It’s okay to make mistakes. Mistakes are building blocks to help you learn and correct the errors of your ways.  Welcome them in your life; Trust me, it makes you stronger and better.
2. We create our own reality. and Death and Life is truly in the power of your tongue. Speak life in all that you do. The universe is listening. 
3.  You must love and respect yourself first. When you wholeheartedly love who you are, the world will fall in love with you.
4. A few moments of silence and "me time" is always needed. It strengthens your self-awareness and  heightens your  clarity. With clarity, you can do anything.
5. You will never be ready for what you want to do. The trick is to trust the journey, trust GOD and dive in. Taking steps in the direction you want to go means that you will eventually get there.
6. Life is not guaranteed. Live it the way that will make you happy.
7. Change creates resistance. We don’t like change and we will always gravitate towards what is familiar because familiarity keeps us feeling safe. But sometimes, change is good for us. In fact, change is inevitable. Change is the only thing that is for certain. Embrace change.
8. Don’t be afraid to open up to the world. It frees your inner child.
9. No matter how bad, or good, sane, or insane; family matters.
10. Fear is away to keep you away from your goals. Don't give it more power than it should have.
11. You're an empath and its OK to feel the universe. That's what makes you Jo.
12. Time is the most important resource in the world. It is the only non-renewable resource in your life. Choose wisely how you spend time, and with whom you spend it.
13. Less is more.  Own less things, and you’ll experience more freedom.
14. Curves are beautiful.
15. If you ever forget who you are, go back to the mirror.
16. The most important thing we can do is allow GOD to take control. You'll be amaze at the path he place you on.
17. It's okay to mourn your failures as long as you get back up and live.
18. People are really kind and helpful if you give them a chance. Be open to receiving without feeling guilty. 
19. You are a women. Embrace it, Be it, and don;t let society change that. We are stronger and more resilient than we think we are.
20. Watch my language.  Saying that “I Can’t” do something has a profound effect on my beliefs about what is possible. It can limit my potential or empower me with possibilities. Choose your words carefully.
21. Complaining, criticizing and gossiping is a waste of time and saps your energy.
22. Ask for it, You will more likely get it. Don’t be afraid to ask.
23. Forgiving someone is a lot easier than we think. When we forgive, we are setting ourselves free. Forgiveness is not about other people; it’s about letting the pain go in our own minds.
24. It’s easy to find fault in others–much easier than seeing fault in ourselves. How we view the world is a reflection of how we view ourselves, and this gives us insight to our internal thought patterns. Next time you catch yourself complaining about some fault in others, ask yourself, “What is it about myself, in relation to this topic, that I don’t like?”
25. It's OK to stop everything to rest. Your body needs it.
26. Listen to your body. It knows more than you.
27. Write on. It's your peace zone.
28.  When you believe in yourself, others will believe in you, too.
29. Crying is OK, No need to bottle in all that negative energy. Let it Go!
30.You are great advising others but sometime you should  take your own advice.
31. You do get better with time. Enjoy growing, enjoy maturity and age. Its a sign that you are still ALIVE.
Love Naturally,
                   JoJo

Wednesday, April 22, 2015

Look Fabulous: Best Bras for Large Bust

My biggest pet peeves while growing into a lady, was finding a bra that fits correctly. I have literally invested a good portion of my boobie's life searching for that perfect fit. I would spend hours trying on bras, touching fabrics and testing out the "recommended" bras for busty chickies, When it comes to  cost, I've had the high-ends to the low-end, and even some in-between.  As always, it would end up in money flush down the drain and a bra that failed under pressure, literally.

So, in a quest to finally find that perfect fit, I believe I have finally found 3 perfect bras including a bonus bra for busty women. Here are my picks below, the pros and cons, and of course links to try them yourself!

#1: The best lift and Support

The first bra that I highly suggest every women should own is the bra I like to call the "Lift and Tuck Bra". It provides great coverage and support. It feels very comfortable and is a must have!

Full Coverage Butterfly Bra

 From Ashley Stewart $34.50


PROS:
Offers great Back support
Offers great full coverage without "running over"
Double strapped back eliminates "Back bulge"
Padded shoulders
Flattering design
Sizes Range from 38D-46DDD

CONS:
Smallest size is a 38D, so alteration is needed for smaller back sizes
Putting it on can be a challenge
May feel a little bulky


#2 The Best "Strapless Bra minus the slip"

I am currently a 36DDD,and absolutely hated strapless bras; Simply because I could never find a bra that would actually stay put. Whenever I would wear a strapless bra, it always ended up sliding down, or unable to hold and lift my boobies. When I purchased the Convertible Strapless Butterfly Bra below, I was very skeptical that it would do its job, I was quite surprised that this bra actually held me up and did not budge!

From Ashley Stewart $34.50





PROS:
Can be worn six different waysComfort Grips around cups and strap that reduces slipOffers great Back support
Offers great full coverage without "running over"
Double strapped back eliminates "Back bulge"
Flattering design
Sizes Range from 38D-46DDD


CONS:
Smallest size is a 38D, so alteration is needed for smaller back sizes
Putting it on can also be a challenge



#3 The Best "Sport Bra minus the bounce"

If you followed my fitness journey, you may have heard my rambles over this awesome bra, The last time I had a great sports bra was back in my cheer days in high school. Back then, my Coach "Mama K" ordered an amazing bra from Champion. However, after literally wearing it to it's grave, I needed a new one. I've searched high and low and could not find the Champion bra. I accidentally stumbled across this bra at Sports Authority and immediately fell in love. If you are a busty runner, this bra will hold those TaTas in place!

From Amazon :$Varies







PROS:
Minimize bounceAdjustable shoulder straps for closer fit
Offers great full coverage without "running over"
Padded shoulders
Easy to put on 

CONS:
No longer available at Sports Authority
Price varies by website
Availability varies by site




BONUS BRA!: The best "Not your grandma kinda of nude"

Don't you just hate that most Nude busty bras are made with that dreaded grandma bra pattern or print? Well the 5-Way Nude convertible bra is one of my all time favorite nude bra. So much so,  I actually own 5 of these! I am also  planning to buy another since it is on sale for $16.99! ( can't beat that with a bat!)


5-Way Convertible Bra

Ashley Stewart $24.50
ON SALE FOR $16.99







Disclaimer:All content provided on this "Love Naturally JoJo" blog is for informational purposes only. The owner of this blog makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site.The owner of Love Naturally JoJo will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information nor for the availability of this information. The owner will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from the display or use of this information.



Monday, January 19, 2015

Learn: Truth

“I'm not laying blame. I do not blame Black men for what they are. I’m asking them to move beyond. I do not blame Black men; what I’m saying is, we have to take a new look at the ways in which we fight our joint oppression because if we don't, we're gonna be blowing each other up. We have to begin to redefine the terms of what woman is, what man is, how we RELATE to each other.”
— Audre Lorde, “Revolutionary Hope: A Conversation Between James Baldwin and Audre Lorde”

Sunday, December 7, 2014

LIVE & LEARN: Living with PCOS




Shalom!

 I originally started my blog to document my weight loss journey, share some inspirational messages and share my love of  fashion. However, during my journey, I have met several women battling the issue of weight-loss and underlying factors that hindered their progress to successfully loose weight.  I found myself relating to a lot of the stories shared.  One of my biggest goal with my blog was to be transparent and provide self love, and  encouragement.

 So, I've decided to share my story, and my road blocks with  my weight. Although I have successfully found a way to manage my weight, I can't deny the hurdles and hard work it took to get a control over it. See,  I  am a 33 year old African-American Women and I have PCOS( Poly-Cystic Ovarian Syndrome).  I self diagnosed myself at the age of 15, but was officially diagnosed in 2007. Poly-cystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormone imbalance that can cause irregular periods, unwanted hair growth, infertility, weight gain, and acne. PCOS begins during a girl’s teen years and can be mild or severe.  PCOS is caused by an imbalance in the hormones (chemical messengers) in your brain and your ovaries. PCOS usually happens when a hormone called LH (from the pituitary gland) or levels of insulin (from the pancreas) are too high, which results in extra testosterone production by the ovary.


Some of the most common signs of PCOS include:
  • Irregular periods that come every few months, not at all, or too frequently
  • Extra hair on your face or other parts of your body, called hirsutism (her-suit-is-em)
  • Dry skin
  • Acne
  • Weight gain and/or trouble losing weight
  • Patches of dark skin on the back of your neck and other areas, called acanthosis nigricans
  • Problems with Fertility

 Growing up, I would describe myself as a very active and health conscious teen.
 I was a very active teenager who engaged in sports as well as routine exercise, and overall a healthy individual. At the age of 14,  I remember having a menstrual cycle that was very irregular. At the time, of course it felt like a blessing to not have a cycle for a few months. It did not alarm me at all since it was quite common for teens to experience a missed periods if they were  engaged in sports. However, not having a cycle for an extended period of time also had its own downfalls.  When my cycles would come, it would last for months!  Still, I was not alarmed and made up possible reasons why this was happening. I had my routine women visits and never mentioned a word. I believe I did this because I was more terrified of what the diagnosis would be. So, I went on with life and dealt with my "issue" as best as I could.  

I graduated high schools and began my college career, still dealing and managing my condition on my own. Of course with school, life and work; the freshman 15 quickly turned into the freshman 30. I quickly packed on the weight in less than a year. I chalked it up as having no time to exercise, and living the free life of a  college student. 
 Living with the unknown condition became a normal routine in my life. I made it fit and adjusted whatever needed to be adjusted. Instead of buying one bag of Always with wings overnight, I started buying 2-3. and of course convinced myself that this was just normal and how my life would be. Although I tried to ignore this unusual new life,  something inside knew this was not normal.I started researching my symptoms and came across a blog with women dealing with PCOS. I quickly identified that I too experienced many of the  symptoms these women were going through. That day, a light bulb went on and I knew that this must be what I have. 
 At the time, little was known about the condition and the only remedy floating around  were birth controls to alleviate some of the symptoms. I grew frustrated and finally had a breaking point in my late 20's and decided to seek medical attention. My irregular heavy menstrual cycles were beginning to control my life. When it would arrive,  It left me debilitated. Confined to my home, and emotionally drained. My wardrobe of bright and fun colors quickly changed to dark blues and blacks to avoid any accidents that may happen. So as quickly as my world was changing, I decided it was time to go in and officially find out what was wrong. After countless of test, ultrasounds, and blood work  my Dr. gave me a diagnosis of Uterine Fibroid. I thought to myself, "that's it?" Okay, I can deal with that. She decided to start me on Birth control to regulate my cycle. After researching the drug, I declined the treatment because of  possible complications it can cause, as well as causing my Fibroid to grow.  So, as usual I went on with life.  

In 2007, during a routine examination I told my Dr, that I wanted to check my hormones for any underlying issues that may have been missed. my Dr. suggested that I test my testosterone levels and from there we can look into further testing.  My results came back with  high levels of testosterone and an official diagnosis of PCOS. We discussed treatments including a drug called Metformin. Although I have always  preferred holistic healing, I agreed to try the metformin. I also decided to start an exercise routine and that year I decided to  convert to  a vegetarian. 

My decision to become a vegetarian greatly helped my condition. I was able to loose 30lbs within the 1st three months into my journey and the Metformin along with the exercise helped my cycle greatly. However, the side affects of the medication were debilitating. If you suffer from PCOS, a Diet and exercise plan are essential to   managing PCOS. This is partly because young women with PCOS often have higher levels of insulin (a hormone) in their blood, and many have trouble maintaining a healthy weight. Knowing the right foods to eat as well as the kinds of food to limit can improve the way you feel. It will also help you lose weight. Eating well, staying active, and maintaining a healthy weight (or losing even a small amount of weight if you’re overweight) can improve PCOS symptoms.

So, there it is. I will continue to share my journey because I believe you can only help others by being truly transparent. 


Love Naturally,
JoJo

Sunday, October 26, 2014

Miles Hodges and Carvens Lissaint "Strive"

Friday, October 3, 2014

LOOK FABULOUS: Hello Yellow

I felt very feminine and Assertive in this look. I have always been afraid to wear white, but recently I took the plunge and decided to give it a try.

Tuesday, September 30, 2014

Tony Evans - God is Up to Something Great

Whoever Owns the Family Owns the Future

Sunday, September 28, 2014

LIVE & LOVE:An Incredible God.

I am in awe of the way God will reveal himself . How prayers we repeatedly replay in our minds like broken records, are answered when we least expect it. When we are most vulnerable, and exhausted; somehow, some way, He comes and remind us that the journey will mold us; Just keep going.
And that the dim light that once seem so far, is literally shining brighter than before.
I am amazed at the way God chooses to heal and mend our hearts. 
How old rage, and pain have suddenly turned into understanding.
How love once lost, seems to always find its way home.
Love,
Naturally JoJo

Sunday, September 21, 2014

The Best Advice Dr. Maya Angelou Has Ever Given—and Received - Super Sou...

Monday, September 15, 2014

LIVE: 10 GREAT THINGS ABOUT TEXAS!





  1. The stars at night are big and bright.
  2. Being able to eat cuisines from basically the entire world, all within the Houston city limits.
  3. One word.....Kolaches!
  4. Chivalry was hiding in TX! Men still hold doors for women.
  5. Economy here is great!
  6. Literally a melting pot of people.
  7. Old Country back roads with great scenery.
  8. Laid back people with southern hospitality.
  9. More Bangs for you buck in Real Estate,
  10. And finally, the sweltering heat is great for your pores! :)

Love,
Naturally JoJo

Thursday, August 21, 2014

LIVE & LEARN: Detours Ahead


Originally, I started my blog for my love for fashion, Natural Hair, and poetry. Yet, whenever I am moved to blog, it has been more about  my growing faith in Christ. I don't believe, it's a mere coincidence, but, more of a divined intervention. Sometime we set ourselves to do something, but God has a completely different Agenda for us. Sometime the detours makes absolutely no sense to us but it is perfect in his will. 

 I used to login and want to write about my faith or just share some motivational insights,but would say to myself, "This is  your fashion blog JoJo. People do not wants to read about your faith again". Each time, I would log out feeling defeated. Recently, I thought to myself, what service am I doing for the Kingdom of God by being intimidated to share the goodness of his words? In these growing times of trials and tribulations,  it seems evident that more of us should share our faith, but due to fear we seem to lack the confidence to share the gospel with our friends and neighbors. 

 This weekend after a great talk with a relative of mine, I was reminded how a testimony once helped me find Christ. When we testify to others how God saved us from sin and how God’s grace, has made us a new creation in Christ,  and has filled us with joy and peace by the Holy Spirit, we are reminded of God’s awesome work in our own lives. Being unafraid to share his love deepens our love and understanding of Christ. Sharing his love also save others who are in need of the gospel.

God has been very clear in His Word. He wants us to go forth and spread the Word. As Christians, it is part of my duty to try to reach as many people as possible in sharing the word of God(Mark 16:15). 

So,blogger, If I overwhelm your feeds with goodness, I offer no apologies. There is someone out there that is waiting and needs to hear the Gospel. In moments like these, I am learning to Trust God's Detours. I am learning to trust in the Lord with all my heart and lean not on my own understanding because  He will direct my path( Proverbs 3: 5-6)



Love Naturally,
JoJo


Wednesday, August 13, 2014

LOOK FABULOUS: 1950-60s Retro Glam

Can I tell you how much I am addicted  to Vintage Styles?  
From polka dots, to floral, to the emphasis on silhouette and form. The 1950s was an era where women defined their curves while still remaining elegant. My biggest love for the vintage era are the prints and patterns.My all time favorites are the bold colors mixed with polka dots. So, while browsing my local Salvation Army on their 50% Wednesday, my eyes made contact with this Joann Leslie 1950s-60s black polka dot high waist skirt. At $2.50, I knew we were destined to be with each other. My first thought was, I pray that it fits! Vintage sizes tends to run really small. This skirt was a size 16 but looked like a size 7. I was surprised when I slipped this little number on,and it was perfect. I paired it up with a ruby red Preston & York blouse and my over sized Black Fashion Express bag. To step out with class, I wore  my Nine & Co black peep toe
GIVE ME THE LABELS!
Joann Leslie(Skirt)
Preston & York,(Blouse)
Fashion Express(Bag)
Nine & Co(Shoes)
Chatting Bloopers
My photographer is my 7 year old Niece 

Saturday, August 2, 2014

LIVE: To Do List


Dear JoJo,
  1. Love always.
  2. You were born a dreamer,.Dream on..
  3. If you are lost, God will always find you.
  4. Your heart is neither briar patch nor tumbleweed. It is lush, tropical rain forest.TREAT it accordingly.
  5. Listen to your head, trust your heart but let your gut break the tie..
  6. If they demand your silence in exchange for your friendship or love, then they aren't worth the sound of your voice.
  7. You dream. You act. You plan. You work. You be. You will. I promise.
  8. Your failures don't define you. Your successes won’t SUSTAIN you. 
  9. Never stop growing.
  10. Patience may not be your strongest suit but it has always revealed your greatest rewards.
  11. You are a necessary part of prayer. You are one. You are peace. 
  12. You are at your best when you are smiling. Find at least one reason an hour to be at your best.
  13. Despite what you've told yourself or others, it is never too late to steady yourself and start again.
  14. It isn't about forgiving and/or forgetting, it’s about moving on and getting better.
  15. Make new mistakes, It makes you wiser.
  16. Edit. The poem. The WRITING The conversation. The choice. The decision. The life. Nothing is final. Edit.
  17. You are an empath. Be careful.
  18. Remove yourself from those that drain and refuse to replenish.
  19. What scares you most isn’t the action, it’s the reaction. Don’t let it stop you 
  20. Every morning provides a new opportunity to start again. Take it.
  21. You are a blessed thing when you’re laughing and dancing.
  22. Who you were and what you did, good or bad, has nothing to do with who you are and what you will do.
  23. Never apologize for how you choose to take care of yourself.
  24. Let fear be the wind at your back not the brick that keeps you from moving.
  25. Go find something to be. Something that tells you why you’re here.
  26. Be beautiful without permission.
  27. Live like poems written when strength was common..


Saturday, July 12, 2014

LIVE & LEARN: Gratefulness

 
Nobody needs to prove to anybody what they're worthy of, just the person that they look at in the mirror. That's the only person you need to answer to.
Champion alpine ski racer with the U.S. Ski Team




 Have you ever come across a person that is relatively ungrateful? Those that always expects you to extend more of yourself and alter your character, yet hardly budge on their own self improvements? Often we find ourselves trying to make an impression, over extending ourselves and giving time to those who do not appreciate it, purely because we believe or hope it will make us feel a little better, accepted or acknowledged. Or simply because we feel we have to. This can apply to almost every aspect of our lives including work relationships, friends, intimate relationships or family.

 I used to believe that an order for those to see who you truly are, you had to go above and beyond the call of duty and put aside your needs to prove your self-worth. Crazy right? Well, although it took some time for me to realize this, I've learned  that saying no is ok. In fact, it's a necessary action that protects you from disappointments and frustration. Now, I am not saying that you should not help people or extend yourself to those who may need your help.There are people out there who are  sincerely grateful for any aid you've provided. What I am saying is, I've  learned that constantly extending yourself to people who are naturally ungrateful does nothing for your self-worth. It is a vicious cycle that will eventually leave you burned out and frustrated. 

 Helping others  should never make you feel like you are proving something. It also should never  be based on what someone else will think or say. Ungrateful people, who take advantage, dismiss your opinions, do not value who you are or what you do, speak badly of you, criticize or make you feel insecure, do NOT have a place in your life.  I've learned that people that add value to you, do not require you to work or prove anything to gain emotional satisfaction from them. I have also learned that those who truly respects you, and knows your character  will never seek a validation.  Support and gratefulness is unconditional, as well as love admiration and respect. You will  never have to prove your character or your actions to those who respect you. These are the kind of people I am learning to appreciate more each day. Surrounding myself with quality people that extends their unconditional love creates a ripple effect of goodness that I am very much grateful for.

Love Naturally,
JoJo