Marica Mitchell

Life is like a camera.  Just focus on what’s important, capture the good times, develop from the negatives, and if things don’t turn out – take another shot. How amazing and perfect is that quote. Wednesday after running into my photographer, I was so excited to take up his offer of giving me the overdue photography lesson I so longed for.  I wanted to learn more about my camera, its setting, natural light and how to focus on certain objects.  The lesson was so worth it and I plan on taking any course that he offers. Even though I do NOT have any intentions of leaving my day job and to quit my other hobbies, I want to be able to capture all the good times and special moments in my life.  My subject, my daughter is always so willing. My son Aiden does NOT want to be posted on SOCIAL MEDIA or the internet, however I was able to bribe him and I did get a few shots. Hope you enjoyed  some of the great photos I captured.  Thank you so much Michael (website here) for sharing your knowledge and allowing me to capture these moments. #Fashion

“The successful man may profit from his mistakes and try again in different ways.” Author unknown I found myself the last two weeks sulking over life challenges I have no control over.  I was swaddling in my own bitterness and anger and had to snap out of it.  I really needed a mental break and found myself counting down the hours until SPRING BREAK. Often times I am so consumed with work and the kids that I forget about myself.  I don’t want this to happen as I plan to remain “21” forever.  When my kids’ father decided to finally give me a break (first time solo since the year started) by taking the kids for a few days, I WAS IN HEAVEN.  I may get a break from them every now and again but I am still grateful.  Even though I wished upon a star* that he could be MUCH more involved;  knowing that they have a father around once is a while is better than not having one at all. So I needed to get back to regular programming of  MANY DIY projects that were in the works. I wanted to created all the Easter looks for my daughter and a few for me.  I made 2 headbands, 1 skirt, remixed a T, started an amazing white lace skirt, completed a Mommy and Me look and even made  pillow cases for my son’s room.  To top it off, I did a little spring cleaning as well. So today I made this AWESOME top from a MAN’s shirt I picked up at Ross for $9.99. I wasn’t too happy with the outcome of the sleeves but I felt like a million bucks.  I really loved the look.  I fell in love with Mimi G’s top and was so excited to create the look from her tutorial here.  I rocked it with my converse gifted from a special guy with my favorite boyfriend jeans.  Loving the entire look from head to toe. Thanks for stopping by and can’t wait to share the Easter looks that I have been working on this week. #DIY

“BAD hair day, ain’t nobody got time for that.” Imagine an article from the Beyond Beauty series written by stylist and blogger Natalia Oh published in Jamaica Gleaner had me in awwwww with this young lady.  Yes, I read her story and I was literally in tears!!!! I immediately shared the story with a few of my closest friends. Following her published story in Jamaica Gleaner, I saw her again showcasing her talent on SMILE Jamaica.  What caught my attention was her flawless skin and her beautiful hair.  After seeing another article of hers about her product line, I knew then that I had to give it a try on my daughter’s hair. I had gotten in touch with Christal Ann and asked my friend to purchase 6 sets.  YES, I had confidence in her product and wasn’t sure if I would return to Jamaica anytime soon.  After trying the product the first week on my damaged perm hair at the time, I was HOOKED. Soon after, I was using the castor oil  and tonic or my daughter’s hair and noticed a HUGE difference.  Arielle’s hair wasn’t shedding and was thicker and healthier.  The scalp issue was pretty much gone after a month of using the hair tonic consistently.  For the past year, during my transition, I have used the hair tonic consistently on my scalp while my hair was still in braids.  I have minimal shedding when I removed my braids and I was surprised by the growth.  Last summer, I decided to do the BIG chop and wasn’t confident or bold to wear my fro.  6 months later after braids, I am in awww by the growth and thickness. How I use the Honey Vera products? I am a big fan of trial and error.  I actually received a set of the entire line last summer and currently only uses it  when my braids are out.  I wash with the shampoo, then deep condition with the oil for the entire day and  spray the tonic on my hair.  As for my daughter’s hair, we have to use the tonic every other day as it helps with her severe scalp issue.  In addition we use the oil 2-3 times a week and braid overnight to lock in the shine. When styling my hair, I spray the hair with the tonic and use the gel throughout the hair then add the oil after.  It seems to work better that way as the tight curls stay moisturized throughout the day. WE are truly in love with Honey Vera!!!!.  She spends hours perfecting her craft and product line, traveling to different events and most importantly listening to feedback and suggestions. Christal Ann is one phenomenal woman who is truly an artist at heart.  Not only does she cooks, paints among other talents, she is a LADY of high esteem and character.  I will always support her in all her endeavors as a black woman of talent and strength. DON’T forget to go check her out on Facebook at Honey Vera JA or on Instagram.  Feel free to email her to order your products at honeyveraja@gmail.com Thanks for reading and please feel free to share your comments below if you have tried her products. #HealthampBeauty

Have your child ever made a statement that had you thinking for days?  Have you ever questioned yourself about being a good parent or mother?  Well, unfortunately, I have answered “YES” to both questions.  I have been blessed with 2 amazing children who have unique personalities and who bring nothing but SUNSHINE in my life.  My first born and son, a SPECIAL child has taught me some of the best life lessons.  Aiden is a tough child to understand but he can analyze and reason like a GROWN man.  My son is an active child who participates in church activities and karate.  This past weekend, his Saturday boys church group  had a father son activity  that he wanted to attend.  Again, unfortunately, he realized last minute that his father should have joined but didn’t know how to ask.  He now waited 20 minutes before to tell me to call a friend or my nephew to take him.  I told him “NO” as I have been upset that his dad isn’t playing an active role.  HE CRIED his heart out while listening to some of  my negative harsh comments that I can’t always be a father.  Its take a MAN to teach a BOY to be a MAN and there is so much a single mother can do. I expressed that somethings we have to learn to accept. My son said to me said “mommy, I still LOVE you no matter what and I will still love my father.”  I will not call him and be rude when I am mad but I will pray that he will be a better dad.  I was in AWWWWW!!! I had a moment and I had to reflect back on the harsh words I had just repeated about his father. I felt so bad for my son but moreover, I was ashamed of my actions towards him because of his father.  My son internalizes everything and I regret talking negative about his father.  I know however no matter what, he will always pray for his father and I should have known better to leave it at the foot of the cross.  I know my son would find some way to encourage his dad to be a better man and I should have entrusted him. As I share this with tears in my eyes, my son decided that he would cancel meeting his father this weekend as he would NOT miss CHURCH. I was amazed when my son asked permission today to call his father to let him know that since he is on the choir and will be singing this Sunday,  he will have to reschedule.  He nicely asked his dad to come to church and hear him sing instead. I know that I have a special child but God uses little children to draw us adults closer to Him.  I am a witness as my son will drag me out the house to ensure that we go to church on Sundays.  My son starts our morning rides to work and school with a prayer and share his favorite bible verses in the car.  I play his songs for choir daily for the first 40 minutes of our ride.  He shares how AWESOME God is and share some of his favorite bible stories when he know that I am having a bad day. My son will NOT miss his Wednesday night church group even if his homework is NOT done.  Additionally,  my son has be my rock and my shoulder to cry on and always will share that WORD when things are just not going right. I am so happy that this year my son has only missed church once and is on a mission to serve Christ. He is shielding himself and growing in the WORD and staying on track.  How many 9 year old will NOT miss his choir practice on a Sunday afternoon ?  How many 9 year old will NOT miss church activities on a Wednesday?  How many 9 year old will invite others to Christ?  I know I have a SPECIAL child and I am eternally grateful. This past Saturday was one of the BEST teachable moments and as a parent, we have to accept and look beyond each others fault.  Thank you Aiden for a GREAT lesson!! In closing…. “But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 19 vs. 14 #HealthampBeauty

If at first you don’t succeed, TRY, try again. “William Hickson” I am on a mission this year and I promise myself to cut from more patterns.  I have been sewing skirts for over a year and a half and really don’t need a formal pattern to create one.  I have made all styles all variations and I have been running away from patterns.  I did cut my second pattern for my daughter when I tested the Mingo and Grace Blake dress pattern for tween size 6-14 seen here. I have been shopping for fabric and patterns to create spring pieces for Arielle and came across this beautiful African print. I knew exactly what I wanted to create and was on a mission to create the Mingo and Grace Crop top set pattern. 2715. I opted to create a sleeveless version instead VIEW B.  I was pretty happy with the results except a few minor hiccups with the button hole.  Check out  my first version VIEW A here that I created last year and was proud. I wanted to correct my mistake and cut the armpit area PERFECT as my very first attempt of making it was snugged. The GREAT news is that my daughter loves it and I can’t be happier with the results.  I completed another SLEEVELESS version from a different fabric VIEW C sleeveless and that finish was amazing as well.  I am still contemplating if I should make a shorts or a maxi skirt. I can’t wait to get started on another pattern cutting venture. Hope you enjoyed all the pictures.  We can’t wait to wear it when we go on our NEXT vacation to Jamaica.  Thanks for stopping by and I promise I will get back to regular blogging programming. #DIY #Fashion

“Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore.” — Andre Gide We all have our day, days, weeks and even months. Life challenges sometimes allow you to step back, reflect and make changes. At the end of the day, YOU matters and one may not understand YOU because of the shoes YOU walk in daily. My daddy has taught me so much and now that he is no longer here physically, I have found the truth in some aspects of my life. People sometimes misunderstand the misunderstood. I made a personal commitment to focus on 3 things; God – my relationship with Him, ME – embracing my flaws and being the BEST me,  and FINALLY raising my 2 beautiful kids while living life to the fullest. I have created a QUIET space in my new home where I will reflect, meditate and do the things that I truly enjoy. I have been sick the last two weeks so I haven’t been my personal best. I WILL use this space to connect with God and meditate on His words, document life’s journey and heal through therapy – SEWING, DIY, STUDYING and FITNESS.  This place I will use to push myself to be a better person and educator. I will CONTINUE to strive to ensure that each student that I teach, my words of encouragement will make a difference. My inspiration WALL is a daily reminder  that I have a purpose to live. I promise to be a better each day, week, month and year. I commit to live every moment to my fullest potential.  My QUIET corner is still a work in progress but I am loving the outcome so far.  2016, I AM READY to kick ASS fight :-). I am not letting go and I plan to be the best VERSION ME. Have you created your Vision for 2016? Hope your NEW Year started out on the right track. What changes do you plan to make to be a BETTER YOU in 2016?   Here is a great quote to help you get through any tough times you may be facing. “Sometimes good things fall apart so better things can fall together.”– Marilyn Monroe Please feel free to share or comment below.

“If you ask me for my NEW YEAR resolution, it will be to find out who I am.” Cyril Cusack The last 2 weeks of 2015, my life has been flipped upside down.  I wasn’t concerned about the chaos because I know that God has better plans for my life in 2016.  I been painting, packing, cleaning all at the same time and at times I just sat down and cried. I wanted to give up at the finish line but I had to go through this rough period at the end to finish the race.    I have been running on fumes but today I decided that I just had to take a break and enjoy the last page of 2015. The last 5 years have been truly a struggle which have made me grown so much as a person.  I have found INNER PEACE and even if it took cutting some folks out of my life, I honestly had to in order to save my life.  I had a week off without the kids which allowed many quiet moments and reconnection on a stronger level with God.  Through deep soul searching, I had to ask myself a couple of times “Why are you HERE?” and “What is your PURPOSE?” Amidst all the chaos, it felt amazing today to turn in my keys to an apartment at 1pm December 31, 2015.  I was so excited that I went to my complex to get my last mail and drove out so quickly forgetting to turn the keys in.  My kids and I busted out laughing and my daughter Arielle said, “WOW mommy, you are so happy to leave.” Life has a way of breaking us down to build us up for better and greater things.  The next few months will be spent decluttering my life and starting FRESH all over again.    I am truly excited about the journey and starting a NEW PAGE, CHAPTER, or a BOOK.  I have some many exciting and great things planned and I am so READY to EMBARK on this journey 2016. In closing, “your soul knows when its time to close a chapter so don’t be afraid to start over.”

What are you THANKFUL for this HOLIDAY season?  “When you rise in the morning, give thanks for the light, for your life, for your strength. Give thanks for your food and for the joy of living. If you see no reason to give thanks, the fault lies in yourself.” ~ Tecumseh   I am THANKFUL for: 1. LIFE – God has kept me so far in 2015 and I am happy to be alive. Every morning before I start my day the first thing that I do is meditate and pray in a quiet area in my home giving thanks for LIFE. 2. TRIALS – My trials have proven how strong I am. Sometimes I wonder where does the strength comes from but only God knows. 3. ADVERSITIES – I will continue to fight my way through life no matter what detours I may encounter along the way in 2016. 4. CHILDREN – My pillar of strength and my rock. They keep me grounded and keep that smile on my face. They are more than my company, sidekick or children. They have taught me so much over the last 8 years. 5. FAMILY – Even though I may not be the perfect daughter, sister, aunt or niece, I have to say my family has taught me to stay strong no matter what storm I face. My family carried me through and helped me along the way after losing my best friend and dad. 6. FAITH – I hold on to my faith as when the times get tough, I can only cry out to my Heavenly Father. When sometimes I can only see my footprints in the sand, I know that my Heavenly Father is carrying me along the way. 7. FRIENDS – I have rekindled some great friendship along the way and I am proud to say my true friends have always been there for me. They have lifted me up during tough times even when it’s only a text, email or call. 8. MY JOB – God knows that I am eternally grateful for having a JOB. I don’t complain much anymore, I don’t even fuss when things don’t always go my way. With open hearts I teach my daily and I will continue to uplift and inspire each person I reach along the way. 9. A HOME – This is something I do not take for granted as I see so many homeless folks daily. I may not be living in a mansion but I am happy to have a clean bed to sleep in and a roof over my head. 10. PEACE – It can be hard when you are not at peace with yourself. Thank you Heavenly Father for perfect PEACE. It cannot be bought or sold, but when you do find it from within, the feeling is amazing. In closing… “It isn’t what you have in your pocket that makes you thankful, but what you have in your heart.” ~ Author Unknown

“Let Tomorrow be your second chance to prove that you are better than today and yesterday.” — Ritu Ghatourey Have you ever missed an event, bus or train and was so upset. Then a few hours later, you heard of a tragedy that occurred at the event, on the bus or train. Isn’t that enough to say, Thank You God for a second chance. Well, I think I have been given so many second chances but most importantly a second chance to live. I have had my scary moments in life. I remember having health issues and felt like Heaven wasn’t ready for me yet so I will fight to live. My life has had its ups and downs but the most touching second chance I believe is giving birth to my son. I took the option that was presented to risk my life while carrying a life. Hospitalized 18 times, while being morphined up throughout the pregnancy was enough to know that my HEALTHY son Aiden is my miracle, my angel on earth and I knew I got pregnant for a reason. I have a purpose on earth and giving birth to 2 beautiful children is my purpose to live again..my SECOND chance. My love life has never been an easy road. After getting 2 divorces (yes) to the same person I  married, I didn’t know if I would ever open my heart up to give love a SECOND chance. I became so engraved in my career and kids that when love came my way, I would never give anyone a chance. I was a rock, a hard shell and refuse to give into all the charming words even if it was from the heart. I played hard to get even though at times I merely wanted to crumble and cry. I didn’t want to get hurt again and vowed to remain single and focus on raising my kids.  It was that special conversation that I decided to open my heart and give love a SECOND chance.  Even though I will still proceed with caution, I am ready to love again and to share my life with someone special. God has been working on me and I have really grown in a positive way and have been able to learn to trust. My children often times share their desires for me to find love as they too deserve to see me happy. Most importantly, I have to put God first in every thing that I do because he has given me so many SECOND chances. 2016 I am ready for you with arms wide open.  I plan to LIVE my dreams and enjoy every single moment. I plan to capture and develop the good times and learn and grow from the bad. I PLEDGE to live and enjoy every single day like it is my very last. I plan to be the best me in so many ways and PUSH on daily. Thanking God in advance for another GREAT CHANCE to live and be ME.

Perfect FLAT TWIST anyone? Flat twists are a NEAT way to protect your hair while adding a little JAZZ.  They are similar to cornrows except you are using only 2 strands versus 3.  To create the perfect twist, the art is the grip, the amount of hair and the hand technique.  Follow the steps below and you will have the PERFECT TWIST to GO. Items used: Curly Kids Hair Care Curly Chic Products (Moisture in a Minute, Mane Moisturizer, Coconut Oil for Curls) Brush: Smoothing and Detangling, Comb: Rat tail or regular comb and rubber bands Step 1: Section hair based on desired style or look using a rat tail or regular comb.  For this LOOK, hair was parted in two with a slant look. Step 2:   From the section of the hair you parted, grab a small section of the hair dividing it into two equal parts. Start by twisting the 2 section ensuring that the hair is gripped properly.  See video  TUTORIAL below. Step 3: Try to grip about the same amount of hair each time to PERFECT the twist. It is important to hold the twist and not pull the hair by putting too much tension. As you twist the hair, gently grip and incorporate more hair from the section into the twist as you work towards the back. Secure at the end of the twist either braiding or with a small black rubber band. Don’t forget to add your Curly Chic Moisture in a minute and brush the hair for each section that you twist. Step 4: Repeat steps 1 to 3 until you are complete. As you become more comfortable with your technique, you can section hair to create different versatile looks. Complete the look or style by adding a flower or bow depending on the look that you plan to achieve. Thanks for stopping by and HOPE the video tutorial HELPS!!!  Don’t forget to check out the Curly Chic Product line used to accomplish this look at: Curlykids Hair Care Website. #HealthampBeauty

“Beauty is the eyes of the beholder.” Some of the MOST amazing UPDOs on Arielle’s hair literally takes 5 minutes.  A few weeks ago, I was too lazy to re-part her hair so I decided to re secure and brush and roll the hair and pin.  I didn’t want to create the same braided look like the day before and decided to try something brand new.  To my amazement, it came out absolutely perfect. Today, I tried the ROLL and twist after removing her signature part (2) and flat twist that she wore the day before.  He hair was still shiny so I did not add any oil base products. The look was just as easy as my very first try so I decided to VIDEO and share.  Follow these QUICK simple steps and your cutie will have an amazing do. You will need the following: Regular comb, rat tail comb, ponytail holders, smoothing gel (SOFT), bobby pins, barrettes, brush and holding spray (if necessary) Hair Products used for this look courtesy of: Curly Kids Hair Care Curly Chic Your Moisture in a Minute Curly Kids Gel Moisturizer (Optional) Step 1: Section hair into two by parting vertically. Add the Curly Chic Moisture in a Minute or gel to the edges, brush and secure the hair tight with a barrett to create a sleek finish as close to the ear as possible. Step 2: Smooth hair hanging from the barrett (ponytail) either using an oil base product, moisturizer or soft gel. Use a fine teeth comb to make sure hair is free of tangles.  Roll hair and secure first roll around the ponytail on the opposite side.  Pin to hold hair that is rolled in place. WATCH THE VIDEO BELOW TO SEE HOW TO ROLL THE HAIR AND SECURE!!! Step 3: Repeat step 2 and and secure the second roll on the opposite side. Cross roll over to create a BOW look and pin in place. Its that simple!!! Add smoothing gel and brush if need be. If you added the smoothing gel  or moisture in a minute in Step 1, there is no need to repeat.  Add your favorite hair accessory and then you will be off to a HOLIDAY PARTY, SPECIAL OCCASION OR EVEN SCHOOL.  Be sure to leave a message below and tag us on Instagram when you recreate this do. THANKS FOR STOPPING BY AND HAVE FUN ROLLING AND TWISTING!!!!! #Beauty #CurlyKidsHairCare #HealthampBeauty

“Off all the gifts that life has to offer, a loving mother is the greatest of them all.” Over the last year, I have developed a true passion for sewing.  I decided to take this new hobby to help heal the pain and hurt from the troubles of life.  I didn’t have a clue where this journey would go but I knew I didn’t want to stop.  My very first completed skirt was for my beautiful daughter Arielle. I started with the intent to sew for me after being inspired by Mimi G and Beaute’ J’adore.  My close friend and I decided to take sewing lessons with an instructor for 2 sessions.  To our dismay, the skirt was incomplete after the second session and I was truly disappointed and frustrated.  That same night, I decided to make an elastic skirt using a video tutorial for Arielle. Even though it wasn’t perfect, my daughter loved it and modeled the skirt so well that I was even more inspired. Everywhere she goes with a skirt I make, I receive compliments.  My daughter is so confident in the skin she is in and over the last year, we both have gravitated to wearing skirt.  I have been asked many times if I would sew but I am truly inspired to do a limited edition skirts for special occasions when time permits JUST FOR LITTLE GIRLS!!!  Starting this FALL, Arielle and I will be working on a few DIY Projects in addition to working on an awesome sewing Studio.  We will be working with a designer from South America in our sewing club at school and plan to learn as much as we can as part of our Mommy and Me “projects”. I am not sure where this journey may go but I am in for an awesome ride. Hope you enjoyed  a few of the AWESOME photos taken at a Morikami Japanese Garden and Museum showcasing her Holiday African print skirt.  Enjoy and thanks for stopping BY!!!! Remember…. “Life is so much brighter when we focus on what truly matters.” #DIY #Fashion #sewing