natural hair – simple with a twist

… to me.

Published on August 22, 2016August 22, 2016 by altesaLeave a comment

As a child, my birthday happiness was dependent on the reaction and response of others. I (was forced to) realize, as I got older, that dependence is unhealthy.

It’s empowering to know your value and worth runs deeper than people’s memory, financial situation or Facebook alerts.

Your birthday’s special and valuable simply because YOU ARE HERE. God saw it fit to grace you with the gift of life and all it’s treasures. That’s enough. Stop waiting and start celebrating… throw your own party even if you are the only one invited! If folks show up, let that be the icing on the cake.

How do you take responsibility for your happiness on your birthday?

THE CLOSET ACTRESS: Waiting to Exhale

Published on February 20, 2016February 21, 2016 by altesa6 Comments

THE BACKSTORY

You know how birthdays have a funny way of inciting reflection and possible depression. Well, It’s about 2 weeks shy of my **th birthday and I had been reflecting and depressing, cleaning and shopping when I came across clothes in my closet l had not seen since before I had become a wife and mother to two– 8 years ago. Naturally, I want to try them on. Of course to see if this aging lady has really changed. Because if they still fit then that would mean, in my world, I haven’t really aged or changed “physically” at all. (oh yeah!) After praying and slowly slipping on the first dress, memories of a slimmer waistline flooded my mind. If. I. could. just. hold. my. sto. mach. in… I could fit it. (exhale). It worked. I have to capture this moment. Honey take a picture!

…and The Closet Actress Series was born.

I’m in the closet too. Me, the actress. Much like my forgotten but favorite digs, Me, the actress has been tucked away for so long for reasons I am not prepared to explore in this post. Perhaps the stills below would help to express the frustration behind that story. In any case, this series premiere of The Closet Actress is about rediscovering the forgotten.

It was my birthday and I needed a way to celebrate. Dinners and lunch with friends were on the list but I wanted something more. Purposefully more.

THE WARDROBE

The clothes I am wearing in this episode of The Closet Actress are dresses and skirts I haven’t worn in 10 years. I am proud to say they fit! not perfectly as in pre-kids perfectly but they never the less fit at least for an at-home birthday photo shoot with my husband.

I am glad to have created an occasion to take both the clothes and the gift out of the closet.

May you be inspired to rediscover what’s been tucked away and forgotten in your life.

Are you a closet actress, photographer, artist, writer, knitter? Do tell.

Wardrobe in order of appearance:

Green Circle Dress with Belt, MICA

Floral Halter, Mario Balthazar

Black Sleeveless, Rubi Rox

Pleated Skirt, Mohji Kohji

Film and Theater Inspirations:

The Birds, 1963 Imitation of Life, 1959

Raisin in the Sun, 1961 Grease, 1978

appreciation day

Published on June 6, 2015June 6, 2015 by altesa2 Comments

I used to have long thick natural hair and I miss it.

today,

i imagined a photo where i would showcase my hair as it is today. in recovery from heat damage 2 years ago, it has taken on a new texture, look and style that is not necessarily by choice. in the meantime, while it grows back, i take it in. i told my husband what i wanted and he was johnny on the spot snapping away just minutes before he was to leave for work. I love the results of this spontaneous photo shoot.

Hair Style: Afro Blow out

Camera: Canon 7d /50mm

Happy New Year or nah

Published on January 3, 2015July 10, 2015 by altesa2 Comments

New Year’s Day is like a reset button for most of us. It’s a chance to start again–fresh and focused!

While you are planning to start at 1 and do “life” differently this year, consider equipping yourself with these three timeless truths from the Bible, sure to keep the happy in your year long after it loses its new.

Monitor your progress by comparing yourself to your past and not to others.

“Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else.” (Galatians 6:4).

Positive change occurs best with slow, steady progress.

“A bonanza at the beginning is no guarantee of blessing at the end.” (Proverbs 20:21, MSG)

Sometimes we need to wait to sense God’s presence and help.

“Meanwhile, friends, wait patiently for the Master’s Arrival. You see farmers do this all the time, waiting for their valuable crops to mature, patiently letting the rain do its slow but sure work.” (James 5:7, MSG)

Thanks for reading!

Source: Bill Gaultiere, Soul Shepherding