You never miss the water till the well run BONE dry

Sooooo,

For the past 2 weeks since I've given my resignation notice to my job I have seen an interesting phenomenon happening: Appreciation! All the words that I needed to hear, all the accolades that I've deserved, and all the accommodations that I wanted have been given to me. Its funny how me leaving have prompted my supervisors to treat me the way I should have been treated in the first place. Now that I am leaving they can really appreciate the contribution that I brought to the staff (hell the the whole organization). I've worked hard on my career for the last 9 years I worked my way up from a receptionist and busted my hump to complete my education while doing my job. All I wanted was to be acknowledgement for my hard work and the promotion that I deserved. I knew my worth, too bad they didn't realize it until it was too late, or maybe they did and just didn't want to let me rise above they people they wanted in those positions. I admit I didn't play politics, I didn't kiss up to the all boys club and make nice with the powers that be. I was too busy working my ass off to do the best job possible and make sure that we met our goals (often even to the detriment of my personal life ). I won't look back and think what I should have done because I did my best and I am moving on to a better job, and it is their loss trust me. Well you know how the saying goes you never miss the water until the well runs dry. I hope they survive the drought

XOXOOX
Nikki

NYC: Kinky Curly @ Ricky's

I was shopping on a lunch break with a co-worker, and I stumbled into Ricky looking for some make-up and low an behold as I strolled passed the hair products isle what did i see: Kinky Curly products. the same Kinky Curly products that were sold out for a month at my favorite Whole Food (14th Street and Union Square). So i promptly brought a bottle of Knot Today and Curly Pudding. So for all my NYC naturals looking for Kinky Curly check out your local Ricky's.

Nikki

Franklin Has Left the Building!!!!

So after months of unhappiness, stress, and disappointment.......... I got a new JOB.

I am going from higher education to working with a non profit on the secondary school level. I'm excited, I start in my new position on August 30th but it is a bitter sweet transition. I've worked for my old job for the past 9 years so it is a significant chunk of my 20's. I wish the best to the next "Franklin" that takes my place (if they decide to even hire another "one") but for right now FRANKLIN HAS LEFT THE BUILDING!

XOXOXOX
Nikki New Job!

Maxwell & Jill Scott @ MSG review

I know I said I would post a review of the Maxwell Jill Scott concert. It was sooo beyond excellent I wasn't sure that I could cover it all so I found the next best thing: footage on Youtube so you can see for yourself a glimpse of how they tore the house down











Jill Scott was amazing her voice was THE TRUTH, Maxwell was at his best and seduced the crowd. This show was so worth the ticket price plus some, and if you missed it.......well you missed it.

XOXOXOXOXO
N.

Stay Turned: Maxwell & Jill Scott @ MSG review

Hey People,

You would think that the way I raved about getting tickets to this concert I would have broke my neck to tell you all about it......but real life reared its ugly head and I had work to do this week before I started my vacation on Thursday. So stay tuned I will fill you in on Jill's AWESOMENESS and Maxwell's brazen sex talk sometime this week. I am headed to the South for some R&R so hopefully the next time you read this I will be on a porch sipping sweet tea with my computer.

XOXOXOX
Nikki

Michael even a year later we never can say good-bye

Its been a year, we still miss the music, the magic, the man
Today it all about #MJAllDay
We want to celebrate his life and his legacy

And when the groove is dead and gone, we know that love survives so we can rock forever on....

I know I know I know.....Where have YOU BEEN

I know I've been more then MIA lately, I've gone missing like Neffe's period..... In my defense life has thrown me a few curve balls and I've been preoccupied. (plus damn it I was tired I work hard I get lazy!) My professional life has been kicking my butt, and I've had to work through some issue. On my job in my department I am Charlie Brown's friend Franklin (you know the ONLY black character). So you can image how fun it is being the national ambassador for all thing "black" (which is funny because I work with other minorities), also I am one of 2 woman and lets say the "all boys club" is alive and well. So I've been in a funk to say the least for the last 2 month about my career situation, which has done nothing but aid my procrastination. I had to pull myself together put on my big girl panties and deal with it, so here I am blogging as therapy, but my job woes are another story for another time. So here we are a day before the year anniversary of MJ's passing and the day before my Maxwell / Jill Scott concert I think tomorrow will be the definition of bitter sweet. I start a three week vacation on July 1st so there is a silver lining to every cloud, so you will be hearing from me during my down down time....since the man will be off my back!

XOXOXOXOX
Nikki S.

One Year...

Today is one year to the day that I got my last perm.......

I remember because I had to get my hair done for my god daughter 1st birthday the next day and it was late in the day when I went. I had to go to a local dominican salon, the charged me too much, then didn't do a good job, and it took till 10pm at night.

Transition Tales: Bun Donut

Hi Guy,
TGIF TGIF TGIF, I don't think I can say it enough!

I wanted to share my favorite bad hair day buddy with some of you that may not be aware of a buns best friend The Bun Donut (Form)!

This hands down has been on of the best purchases that I've made during my transition. On day when my two textures are not getting along a little gel and this little donut make everything right with the world. I paid about $2.99 for mine and it was well worth every penny.

XOXOXO
Nikki

Trails, Triblations, and a Paycheck

Hello People,

Its been a while but much like poltergeist I'm Backkkkkkk!

I've been MIA while I deal with some issues I've been having on the job front. Things have been really traumatic for me, I've been treated in such a way that made me want to leave and never (EVER EVER) look back, of course I have bills to pay so currently this is not an realistic option. My work situation has given me many sleepless nights and a couple of panic attacks to boot! People have told me "Oh in this economy just be lucky you have a job", I am grateful for a job but that is not a justification to take the onslot of insensitivity and blatant nepotism that I've have had to endure. I am in a better place in my spirit right now because I know God will not give me more then I can handle, but it has been TRYING to say the least. Anywho moving on and upward from the trials and tribulations for a paycheck........My hair is in now in month number 10 of my transition, I have been sticking with 2-strand twist and twist outs as my staple style but as summer approaches I am looking for something new........any thoughts

XOXOXO
N. Stiletto

RIP Lena Horne

Class.....It can't be brought, it can't be learned, some are just born with it. the world has lost a class act.

Rest In Peace Lena Horne

New Video: Maxwell "Fist Full of Tears"

Three of my favorite words:
NEW MAXWELL VIDEO! (Enjoy the link)

http://www.vevo.com/watch/maxwell/fistful-of-tears/USSM20902172

Why do we love the "Bad Boy"

So I tuned into The Wendy "How you doing" Williams (don't judge me) because I heard Jaheim was going to be performing. His latest album is in heavy rotation in my Zune as of late and I own all of the previous albums as well. It's not just his amazing voice which is so reminiscent of old soul crooners but I am so attracted to his "street" edge (and ashamed to admit it). This made me ponder the "woman say they want a good man but go for the bad boy" argument. My late 20's was my last indulgence with "bad boy" he had tattoos everywhere, an AMAZING body, and a pension for running the streets. We knew each other when we were younger and reconnected. I though he just wanted to be friends (1st mistake) so I paid his overtures no mind, and I even remember saying to my best friend that "He was SO not the man for me, he is not the type of man I want or need as a partner"(famous last words). Fast forward a couple of months him chasing me hard, I gave in and began a relationship with him. On top of that I had the nerve to fall in love (2nd mistake), well long story short after a couple of months of dating, a break up, a year of off and on again, and a marriage proposal by text message (yet again another blog post for another time) I finally walked away. A couple of month later when I wasn't looking I met my current beau the "good guy". He is polar opposite no street edge or tattoos, he goes to church every Sunday, he is close with his family, works 2 jobs, and treats me like gold. He is everything I could have asked for in a man plus some, he didn't come how I imagined him but he defiantly came the way I needed him. So I guess my "bad boy" fantasies will be reserved for my Jaheim albums, because my "good man" reality is so much better.

XOXOXO
Nikki

PS- Jaheim's album "Another Round" will be available for digital download for $5 during the month of April, its and excellent album.

Transition Staple Style....for Now

OK so after really battling with my hair for the past two months while transitioning I finally hit my stride! I have finally found a transition style that does not make me looking like who did it and ran at work on a daily basis. I have decided that small two strand twist are going to my staple. I know its not really a big revelation, lots of naturals do two strand twist while transitioning but this is the first time that I've tried them this small on my fickle hair and it stayed and look really nice. I curl the relaxed ends with satin covered sponge roller over night (I love those rollers) wake up in the morning shake and go. I've has to re-twist a few here and there but for the most part it been a week and they are still holding strong (also thanks to Cantu Shea Butter Break Cure Strengthening Treatment and Coconut Oil) I'm going to attempt to co-wash with them in this weekend......so keep your fingers crossed

XOXOXOXO
Nikki

P.S.
I know I'm extra lazy with the pictures.....I'm working on it!

The Shoe Closet: Vince Camuto Women's Aphrodite

I saw these shoes on Shoes.com and fell in love ( http://www.shoes.com/Shopping/ProductDetails.aspx?p=EC1213193&pg=5122037 ). I don't know if its the burst of beautiful weather or my hunt for the perfect outfit for my Maxwell/Jill Scott concert, but these shoes are moving my world right now! These Vince Camuto 4 inch heels sling back pumps with the faux reptile-print are gorgeous and a bargain for a true shoeistas at $120.

The Golden Ticket!!!!!

So when I heard the rumor of this concert I thought This is too good to be true. Then Maxwell confirmed it I thought, I HAVE TO HAVE THESE TICKETS. So last Thursday with pre-sale promo code and credit card in hand I brought the ticket to the event that is going to kick off my summer! Maxwell and Jill Scott LIVE and Madison Square Garden June 25. When I say I cannot wait for this concert it is an understatement, I am beyond excited! Sooo if you have yet to get your tickets (they went on sale to the general public last Saturday) get them before they are all gone (if they aren't already)

This message has been STILETTO APPROVED!

Finally found it!!!

FINNNALLLYYYY

Hello People,
So the minute I heard that Suave was coming out with their new shampoo & conditioner line with natural ingredients I was extra excited to try them. But after a extensive search of the local drug stores in my area I came up (sadly) empty. Well as luck would have it a trip to Target this weekend FINALLY allowed me to find what I'd wanted, so I purchase the Shea Butter & Almond and Rosemary & Mint conditioners. I can't wait to try them! You know it doesn't take much to excite me these days. XOXOX
Nikki S.

Educational Decisions...

I always intending on furthering my educational pursuits even after my LONGGGGG journey to complete my Bachelors. So after some indecision on a a school (and major for that matter) and after attending a very informative Open House and i think I've finally make a concrete decision. I've decided to pursue my MPA (Master of Public Administration) with a specialization in Non Profit organizations. I am in the middle of the applications process right now so I am praying I get into the program. I'll keep you guys posted!

XOXOXOX
N.

RIP Alexander McQueen

Designer Alexander McQueen passed away today. A Fashion Artist who will be dearly missed...

Product Alert: Fiat Luxe Soaps

I seen this on AOL today and I was intrigued! Felted Soaps
(Check out the article: http://shopping.aol.com/articles/2010/02/09/felted-soap/ )

They are soaps from a company called Fiat Luxe
http://www.fiatluxedesigns.com/products.php

The Soaps are all natural, they have a vegetable oil base and use essential oils. This is a great alternative to a loofah (and I am a loofah lover) They are soaps covered in wool that shrinks with the soap. Some may say $12 for soap is a bit much but I am willing to give it a try! I am thinking about ordering some this weekend I will let you know if its a keeper!

XOXOXOX
N.

Valentine's Day (if your into that type of stuff)

Hello People,

For all of you who take the Valentine's Day thing seriously (Me not being one of them) I got a great FREE gift idea for you!!!!!!
If you want to do something sentimental and your funds are low (what we like to call "Recessional Love") I got a great idea, send your significant other (or insignificant other, depending on how and with whom you are currently involved with....) a RADIO STATION! Go to http://www.pandora.com/ (If you don't already have an account create one!) You can create and gift a radio station to anyone. You pick 5 artist and a skin and can email the station to them, its good for birthdays as well! I think is a sweet and clever "gift" and I've even sent one to my boyfriend and he LOVES it (All NEO-SOUL R&B Diva's). So there is my suggestion to assist your loving on a budget (thank me later)

XOXOXOX
Cupid Stiletto!

Haiti Still Needs Your Help

It is so easy to forget a tragedy once it fades from national attention or once CNN is on to the next thing. Please don't forget to donate to Haiti (if you still have not) or to continue to give even if you have. The need is ongoing and so should be your capacity to give. I decide this year to dedicate more of my time and money to giving on a local, national, and international level. So I implore others to do what you can and at times do even more then you can! If you you want to give closer to home remember New Orleans is still suffering from the the aftermath of Katrina and still needs help! Instead of the old adage forgive and forget lets make it Don't Forget to Give!

XOXOXO
N.

The Long and Short of it!

So me and my hair are fighting.....

Or you might say I am fighting my hair, I love the way my natural hair is going but I am still transitioning and my old relaxed ends are not going along with the program. I'm in transitions hell because I want to hold on to my length until my natural hair grows out more. Most people tell me just BC and get it over with but it is so much easier said then done. Like I said before it took me most of high school and my first year of college to grow my hair past my shoulder, so I am having a hard time parting with it. I've never had a short haircut and I am very apprehensive about cutting it all off. On the flip side my permed hair is pissing me off to no end. So the question become what to do next, because I've been coming to work looking really crazy and this can't continue! In other news I checked out "Let's talk about Pep" last night on VH1 and I loved it! Not much for VH1's brand of demeaning reality shows but this one I enjoyed.

XOXOXOXO
Nikki

Please Help Haiti

My heart and prayers go out to the Haiti (which shares the Island of Hispaniola with the Dominican Republic) after yesterday's devastating earthquake. I encourage people to pray for those alive, missing, and those who were lost. More then just prayers I encourage everyone to help, give money, give time, send clothes, find ways to help this country. Haiti is the poorest country in Caribbean (as well as the Western Hemisphere) and they need you help now more then ever. Support Haiti and keep its people in your prayers.

With Love,
Nikki

Hair Struggles

Hello People,

2010 is off an running and so far so good, 11 days in and I am cautiously optimistic. So my issue for the day, my hair is pissing me off. Ok not all my hair but I am transitioning and the 2 texture are driving me nuts. It is so hard to get one the way you want it an then have your permed edges decide they want to do whatever the heck they want. OK simple problem right just BC (big chop)....WRONG! I can't let go of the length and I am not ashamed to admit it. It took me all of High School and 2 years of college to grow my hair out past my shoulder and I LOVE it that length. Since I've decided to go natural I am having a hard time disconnecting my emotions from my hair length. I love my natural growth but I never had short hair and to be honest I think I am scared of the prospect of it. My permed hair is like a bad relationship I know I should stop dealing with but I keep letting back into my life. So the transition struggle continues.

Brand Spanking New Year

So 2009 finally left the building, and thank God it did. Not that I am not thank full for another year of life but 2009 was something else.

Happy 2010 People

Anywho here we are again, me and my random thoughts and you and your short attention span, we are quite a pair! So I did the usual on New Year Eve, too much champagne with my boyfriends, twilight zone marathon, and falling asleep before 2. I know we are LAME and we accept that (and acceptance is the first step right). I've made my resolutions....Beginning with to stop cursing so much, my mouth has gotten a little reckless and my niece is at that I repeat everything I hear age so I've got to get it together. Still I just KNOW someone stupid is just waiting around the corner to make me relapse REALLY HARD. Well for the most part I am back to the same grind, at the same job, but a new outlook and a renewed drive it time to make a move and I think this is my year to do it! If you want it people stop waiting for it to come to you and go get it!

XOXOXOX
The Stiletto One

P.S.
Here is a gift for you in my secret shoe Box - a leaked new MJ collaboration with Lenny Kravits: go to hear it
http://www.lovebscott.com/2010/01/04/new-music-michael-jackson-ft-lenny-kravitz-another-day/