The Curly Life of Kay

While life is full of ups and downs, and plenty of surprises, I find it important to spend more time highlighting the good things than sulking about the bad. It keeps my spirit uplifted and ultimately keeps pushing me forward. Every Sunday I post 5 reasons why the week was a good week! That shouldn't be too hard, right? I mean, that's less than 1 good thing a day, and surely I can find one good thing out of the day, at least.

To see the previous post in this series Click Here

This weeks 5 reasons are mostly about organization, simply because I find it easier to function when things are in order. Since my move, I haven't had much time to put everything in it's own place, so I dedicated this week to cleaning and organizing. I admit that this week may not be as exciting to read, but I made a commitment to write 5 good things about my week regardless of how intriguing - and this is exactly what made this week a good week for ME.


1. I organized my closet! Since I moved in, my closet has been the place to store all my loose ends, my laundry was piled up because I didn't have enough hangers here, and I had luggage that I had yet to unpack. I took the time this weekend to go through everything and organize my clothes and shoes. It feels great to walk into my closet and actually be able to see my wardrobe options!

2. I  organized my bathroom shelves and the space under my bathroom sink. You don't know how frustrating it is to reach for your conditioner or brush and it's not where you're used to it being because of your own neglect to put things away. A clean and organized bathroom makes it much easier and faster for me to complete my daily routines.

3. I organized my files: pictures, events, blogging materials, etc. It's easier for me to store my blog images, my drafts, and other personal files that I may need to access at any given time.

4. I was able to catch up on times with an old friend, "Scottie", who you may remember reading about in the first "The Underestimated 20s" post. It was great to reminisce on good times, and also to talk business practices.

5. I got to rest! This weekend, I stayed in for the most part and had some "me" time as well as quality time with bae. :) The past few weekends I worked, even while home, for pretty much the entirety of the weekend. I must admit that it felt good to leave work at home and just rest and enjoy my days off.

Thanks for reading lovelies and gents, and stay tuned next week for more!

xoxo,
Curly Kay

As I scrolled Facebook, I encountered a lot of posts about our 20s being the lazy years of life . I couldn't help but get annoyed at this generic stereotype, and at the fact that people were using this stereotype as an excuse to sit at home and do just that - be lazy. I immediately began thinking of all of my friends, peers, and former classmates that are currently grinding it out - working multiple jobs, in school earning multiple degrees, interning in their dream field. Instead of living up to the stereotype of getting drunk every night, working in fast food, and ending back at home with their parents, a large number of my peers are carrying out their dreams. Photographers, musicians, athletes, bloggers, teachers, and many more professional careers. I wanted to recognize these individuals that were grinding it out, thus, "The Underestimated 20's" series was born.



This is the lasting impression Mr. Shaun Saw left me with as we departed from our interview just a few days ago. Shaun Saw is an up and coming producer and the creator of iSaw Records. I actually had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Shaun Saw for the first time this week, and Shaun shared with me his story, which was truly inspiring!

Before he told me about his current lifestyle and aspirations, Shaun wanted to first give me an idea of where he came from. He spoke of a rough time in his teenage years where he found himself going down the wrong path. Saw was associating with the wrong types of people and getting mixed up in activities that would not have promising outcomes. Shaun knew he had to make a change in his life, he just didn't know how he was going to do it.

Around this time, Shaun started playing around with music: rapping with his friends, researching the mechanics behind the scenes, and finding resourceful ways to practice the fundamentals. He spoke of a time when he and his friends would spend time recording their bars on a computer monitor built in mic. Of course the quality was not up to par considering the equipment, and Shaun knew he needed a real mic and a pop filter. At the time he lacked the money to purchase one, so he instead used paper towels over the mic as a temporary fix.

This is the type of story that resonated with me from our transparent interview. Real. Truthful. Experiences. 


About two years ago, Shaun buckled down, and got serious about his aspirations. His mentality regarding music changed from just a time occupying hobby, to a realistic dream. He shifted his practices from rapping and writing to producing. Specifically producing trap music. Shaun informed me that he is experienced in producing different genres, but his bread and butter would be considered his original yet relative trap music.


I inquired about his muse for producing, he mentioned that the only concrete condition for him to create music is that a window must be open to allow for fresh air and means of nature. I felt this was spoken like a true artist. It was refreshing to hear a producer appreciate the muses of nature and to have such a simplistic inspiration for his work.


For Shaun, his main motivations for success are pleasing God and giving back to his mom. He reminisces on how his mom constantly gave, and still gives, to him in support of his aspirations even when things are tight on her end. Shaun's biggest motivation is making enough money to pay his mom's student loans off so that she can be debt free. Once again, another example of his humility and kind heartedness.

Being a 20 something in a tempting world, it can be easy to lose focus of our end goal, especially working in artistic industries. I asked Mr. Saw how he combated daily distractions and kept a hold on his drive for success. He answered with ease that he avoids peer pressure and those that only strive to bring others down. Shaun makes it a mission to surround himself with like-minded individuals that are striving for goals and aspirations themselves. I've found this to be a philosophy that many success-minded people follow, and believe it to be a good mentality to keep.

Shaun Saw and Dorian "Scottie" Wilson

When working on your dreams, it's always good practice to have a long-term plan. An end goal. Something to motivate your current actions to push to the future. I asked Shaun where he wanted to be in 5 years. He confidently stated that he hoped to be in Atlanta working for Street Execs Studios as a producer and/or audio engineer. He feels that the artists they work with currently would directly correlate with his producing style. Shaun hopes that in working with these artists under Street Execs, he can build the strength of his own brand iSaw Records. Shaun feels that being in Atlanta, he would be engulfed in the music environment helping to maintain his focus on his prize.

A message of gratitude from Shaun Saw:

"I would like to thank all of my supporters, but specifically I'd like to thank my mom for her constant support. I'd like to thank my dad for stepping up and showing me how a man is supposed to carry themselves and provide for their family. Because of my dad, I found God, and got back onto the right path, and for that I'm grateful. I'd like to thank Chauncey for showing me how to properly network- he taught me the importance of talking to others about collaborations and what it is I want to do with my brand. I also want to thank Nyborn for being my first professional studio experience. It's funny, I remember when I was younger my dad took me to a studio, and to my surprise, I learned that Nyborn was there too. It just goes to show how things come back around. Lastly, I'd like to thank my friend Dorian "Scottie" Wilson for helping to find direction in my aspirations, and in outlining my goals."

 It was truly a pleasure meeting and talking with Shaun Saw and I wish him nothing but success in his endeavors! Just wait, you'll see him in the big leagues in no time.

As I have shared in a previous post, in my free "me time", I often enjoy watching Netflix. Well, today I wanted to share my newest Netflix fave: The Tudors. I must say I have a secret interest in Renaissance, Medieval, and Olde English themed shows. I binge watched the show Reign in only a matter of days on Netflix, and actively seek to find more shows like these. The storyline is one that will have you torn between sides as majesties and mistresses battle over the love and succession rights of the King Henry.

I couldn't tell you specifically what it is that draws my interest to these shows, simply because I honestly cannot pin point it. It could range from their intriguing accents and dialects, the cunning drama, the slyness of residents at court, or the numerous love triangles. They are like 15th century soap operas, and my guilty pleasure. The Tudors has 4 seasons on Netflix and I'm beginning Season 3 now, and I must say I am very invested in the storyline. I won't spoil the show for you, because I do highly suggest you watch it for yourselves.

What are you Netflix faves? Follow me on twitter @lifeascurlykay and tell me!

xoxo Lovelies and Gents,
Curly Kay

They say the first stage to acceptance is denial, and for a while I've been in denial that I have a vlog addiction. But for the first time...I believe I have finally accepted that I am a vlog addict *sigh*. Now for those of you that have no clue what a vlog is, it's simply a blog but in video form.  I can sit on youtube for hours, yes hours, just watching strangers vlog their intriguing lives. The interesting thing for me is, I don't watch the "famous" vloggers that seem to have everything life could ever offer, and that always have their ish together. I don't get lost in their lives and forget my reality like many do, and I don't get offended by their entitlement or anything like that.

While most of my online presence is spent encouraging others to push towards their aspirations and goals, I must also remain in touch with reality. The reality is, no one can work 24/7, 365 and not become burnt out. Success is it's own reward, but it is imperative to balance your life, with work as well as relaxation. It is easy to get caught up in the fast-paced grind to achieving your goals, especially when things are going well for them, but things can quickly take a turn if you neglect to care for yourself. By taking care of yourself I mean of course the obvious eat, sleep, and rest, but I also mean taking the time to indulge in your favorite pastime or hobby.

Don't get lost in the grind that you forget to enjoy life along the way. Of course don't lose sight of your end goal, but there is nothing wrong with taking a day or two (the weekend ideally) to take a break from the upbeat rhythm of attainment and delight yourself in your likes.

Here are a few things I like to do when I take "Me Time".

1. Blog :)

Surprise, surprise! While some may think of blogging as work, it's a stress reliever for me. I've always enjoyed writing, and when I picked up blogging again, I promised myself that if it began to feel like a burden, or a job, I would let it go. I've also read a few other bloggers thoughts on their purpose for blogging and many state that if you get to the point of which blogging indeed does feel like a burden, you may have strayed away from the integrity of your blog and become lost in the stereotypical flow of "blog success". So far, it is still a calming task that I look forward to completing.

2. Reading other blogs!

When I'm not working, or blogging, I truly enjoy reading other lifestyle blogs! It's something about reading realistic posts about the everyday lives of everyday people that can be entertaining in my down time.

3. Movie Nights!

I mean, who doesn't enjoy a good movie night with a bowl of popcorn, right? I am no stranger to hopping on the couch with a glass of wine and turning on the old-faithful Netflix! When I'm really feeling like spoiling myself, I may even buy a movie ticket and go to the theatre, especially seeing that I've moved within 2 miles of a theatre.

4. Fun with Friends

Of course it's important to maintain interpersonal relationships! You don't want to become a hermit with 6 cats just because you are too success driven to keep in touch with your friends. When I have downtime I prefer to spend it laughing it up with my friends. We don't always have to go out to have fun, we can stay in and have just as much fun as going downtown!






5. Rest

Sometimes, you just need rest. I am no foreigner to naps on the couch in the middle of the day. Many people frown up at the mention of naps, but they are my (sometimes very) necessary bursts of energy and it's important to catch up on your rest. Believe me, this is one of those things you can't avoid no matter how many 5 hour energy's or Red Bulls you take. Your body will eventually take the choice out of the decision and just go into recovery mode. Those are the days you plan to take a 30 minute naps and wake up 13 hours later.

What you do in your "Me Time" could look completely different than mine, and that's normal. The important part is that you actually make time for you.

I want to hear from you! What do you do in your "Me Time"? Tweet me @lifeascurlykay and tell me!

With love,
xoxo Curly Kay

"No matter how you feel, get up, dress up, show up, and never giver up!" This would be a quote I found on Pinterest last week, and I felt that it would be perfect for a Motivation Monday! Everyone knows the Monday Blues, you wake up from a relaxing weekend (most of the time) and dread getting out of bed, getting cute, and out of the house. But remember what I've said, change your attitude and you'll change your results. If you wake up Monday morning with a purpose, the day will feel less dreadful and more productive with just a change in your mentality. Your work ethic can improve, your interpersonal interactions throughout the day may seem friendlier, and you yourself may be happier! So, like the quote says, get up, dress up, show up, and never give up!

Have a great Monday everyone!

xoxo Curly Kay

While life is full of ups and downs, and plenty of surprises, I find it important to spend more time highlighting the good things than sulking about the bad. It keeps my spirit uplifted and ultimately keeps pushing me forward. Every Sunday I post 5 reasons why the week was a good week! That shouldn't be too hard, right? I mean, that's less than 1 good thing a day, and surely I can find one good thing out of the day, at least.

To see the previous post in this series Click Here

This weeks 5 reasons are...

As I scrolled Facebook I encountered a lot of posts about our 20s being the lazy years of life . I couldn't help but get annoyed at this generic stereotype, and at the fact that people were using this stereotype as an excuse to sit at home and do just that - be lazy. I immediately began thinking of all of my friends, peers, and former classmates that are currently grinding it out - working multiple jobs, in school earning multiple degrees, interning in their dream field. Instead of living up to the stereotype of getting drunk every night, working in fast food, and ending back at home with their parents, a large number of my peers are carrying out their dreams. Photographers, musicians, athletes, bloggers, teachers, and many more professional careers. I wanted to recognize these individuals that were grinding it out, thus, "The Underestimated 20's" series was born.

This week on "The Underestimated 20s" we have Dorian "Scottie" Wilson, a 20something photographer.

Having naturally curly hair can be both a blessing and a curse. While I love my curly tresses, they can often be hard to keep moistur
ized. Anyone can attest to the fact that dry hair is hardly to be envied *sigh*.

The other day I had a realization about myself- I don't like change. It has taken me a while to come to this conclusion and accept it, but it's the blatant truth... and looking back over some situations, it makes perfect sense. What kind of change, exactly?

Chowder? Like Clam or New Englad Chowder? No, not like Clam or New England Chowder, Chowder like my puppy Chowder. ^_^ Chowder is my 2 year old Yorkie that is full of energy and personality. What is there to say about Chow? Well, many may say that he's spoiled and clingy, but he's a puppy so what else would you expect, haha. Maybe I enable him a little, and love on him all the time...but isn't that what a good dog owner is supposed to do? He's an attention seeker I must admit, but his infectious puppy dog eyes make it impossible to turn him away from a pet or embrace.

He's a sight for sore eyes after a long day of work, or dramatic encounters. The way he's always excited to greet anyone who walks through the door is just one of his traits that make him so lovable, I'm mean there's not a bad bone in his body.  Even when he has an accident in the apartment, or does something he knows he's not supposed to do, the guilt you see in his eyes just makes you melt. Well, that's Chowder for you. Maybe he'll make a few appearances for you in the future. :)

As I was exploring my new neighborhood, I discovered that I live less than 2 miles from two thrift stores. Of course I was eager to check them out, but when I saw them, both were closed. I went back today, one was closed yet again, but the larger one was open. In I went with an open mind looking for items I could repurpose or use in my new apartment. I saw

Welp we've made it to another Monday! Instead of dragging your feet out the door, like we all want to, try to make the best out of today! I don't know about you, but I make it a point  to live purposefully. What's the point in getting up to go to work to half-heartedly do my job?

While life is full of ups and downs, and plenty of surprises, I find it important to spend more time highlighting the good things than sulking about the bad. It keeps my spirit uplifted and ultimately keeps pushing me forward. Every Sunday I post 5 reasons why the week was a good week! That shouldn't be too hard, right? I mean, that's less than 1 good thing a day, and surely I can find one good thing out of the day, at least.

To see my last 5 reasons, Click Here !

This weeks 5 reasons are...

As I scrolled Facebook I encountered a lot of posts about our 20s being the lazy years of life. I couldn't help but get annoyed at this generic stereotype, and at the fact that people were using this stereotype as an excuse to sit at home and do just that - be lazy. I immediately began thinking

Now this is the story all about how my life got flipped, turned upside down.  I'd like to take a minute, just sit right there, I'll tell you how I became the... I mean.. How I met the roommate straight from hell. *cue music*

Ever just have those days when you just want to call a quits on your dream? Days that you ask yourself why even bother? Truthfully, I think everyone has - we're all human, and I don't know about you, but I'm not at the point where I can say nothing ever goes wrong. Well, I have a little brain food for ya!

While life is full of ups and downs, and plenty of surprises, I find it important to spend more time highlighting the good things than sulking about the bad. It keeps my spirit uplifted and ultimately keeps pushing me forward.

Coconut Oil has hundred of uses that many are unaware of, it's really quite the household treasure. From hair, skin, antibacterial uses, and more, coconut oil is a universal tool that everyone should keep in the home! Today I'll just give you my personal top 8 uses of coconut oil.

Stuggling to find a wall piece that doesn't cost $60? Or maybe you're just plain tired of window shopping in Pier 1 and other home decor stores that seem overpriced for simple decor. What if I told you that you could decorate your home with everyday materials that you can find for inexpensive prices?

Naturals all over adore, covet, and rock the natural world renowned "Wash and Go." A perfectly defined and elongated wash and go is practically a gift from the natural hair gods, if there were any! A hairstyle that's quick (for some) and easy to achieve. Atleast that's how it's advertised. Depending on your hair texture, wash and go's can take up to 30 minutes or more to achieve one's desired look, and in order to achieve this look a lot of manipulation may be required.

What many don't realize about the beloved wash and go is

It's not uncommon for women to shy away from scissors, in fact, our society is slowly becoming obsessed with the length of one's hair and forgetting all about the most important concept - the health of the hair. Many forget that as our hair grows, it ages, and the different conditions we put our hair through can cause damage over time.

"I look like a boy!" "I need some flair!" "I hate this cut!" 

Greetings! To the left you see a gorgeous picture of Carmen from MyNaturalSistas rocking her lovely twa (Teenie, Weenie Afro) with confidence and class. How did she get there? Another big chop of course!

I sat yesterday trying to figure out in what direction I wanted my blog to go. There are many paths a blogger can take, many focuses and many mediums (writing, vlogging, etc). I also thought of what my purpose was in blogging in the first place. I derived at a simple conclusion: writing was my first love, poetry to be exact, and I don't want to become so busy with day to day tasks that I forget my passion. Anyone that knows me may probably say that my passions include music, children, and natural living (hair, skin, etc). However, not many know about my love for writing. I find that writing can be therapeutic, stress relieving, and rewarding.

I was in the process of moving, and found myself becoming very stressed with what I needed to accomplish in such little time, all while still caring out real world duties such as work, school, etc. As I sat there trying to get my mind together, I had a like on my Facebook page from one of my blog posts from last year. I immediately felt guilty for neglecting my blog after less than 10 posts. I was so sure that I was going to stay on top of it and that I was going to keep working at it. Instead, I did exactly what I was afraid of - I forgot about it in the midst of everyday life. At that moment, I knew I had to get back on the ball with my blogging, if for no one else, for me. This time, I'm more than determined to consistently blog. As for what I'll blog about... it will depend on the events of the day/week.

Thanks for reading, and I hope you'll stay tuned.

xoxo Lovelies!

~ Curly Kay