FOOD INDULGENCE: HOW TO MAKE NIGERIAN SHAWARMA
By Hadassah Agbaps - December 04, 2013
So the following morning, I washed the tears from my face and went back to the stylist to complete my hair.
My scalp was sore and since I couldn't go back (take down the hair), I could only move forward (finish it up)!
I told the stylist that my hairstyle pushed me to tears and she carefully helped me to loosen the offending bits which was closer to the front of my hair.
It felt a better.....just a bit.
When she was through with the wraps, she burnt the ends with a lighter (to stop the yarn from unravelling) and dipped it all in hot water to soften it so it's less stiff.
My scalp was sore and since I couldn't go back (take down the hair), I could only move forward (finish it up)!
I told the stylist that my hairstyle pushed me to tears and she carefully helped me to loosen the offending bits which was closer to the front of my hair.
It felt a better.....just a bit.
When she was through with the wraps, she burnt the ends with a lighter (to stop the yarn from unravelling) and dipped it all in hot water to soften it so it's less stiff.
So, the style of the week heading is not totally accurate because I've been rocking this style since the 29th of October and will be taking it down pretty soon!
As usual, the stylist predicted a two months lifespan and thank God she decided to be a stylist not a prophetess because I will be taking down my style at the 3 week mark to give it at least a week to recuperate.
So, why yarn wraps?
Well I really loved the loc'd hairstyles I saw on the Ghanaian women and as I was searching for wedding hair style inspirations for a client, I kept seeing beautiful loc'd updos some of which I posted on Instagram.
I couldn't sleep.
I wasn't happy with my free hair anymore....I wanted locs......I needed locs!
Of course I knew my hunger for locs would be short lived because I wouldn't be able to commit to it....I can't even commit to a style for more than three weeks!
I always want a change......but now the change was locs!
While going about my daily duties, I spied a lady with what looked like locs.
She had yarn wraps.
It looked a bit stiff and I felt it was because she made it thicker.
PRODUCT REVIEW: KID'S ORGANICS BY AFRICA'S BEST ULTIMATE MOISTURE SHAMPOO AND OLIVE/SOY GROWTH LOTION
By Hadassah Agbaps - November 17, 2013
HOW TO PREPARE YOUR NATURAL HAIR FOR A SPECIAL EVENT
By Hadassah Agbaps - November 16, 2013
Hi people, what's been on?
These 'ember' months are usually full of social events such as office dinners, weddings, family parties, Christmas parties, red carpet events and so on.
This is a really good opportunity to get your natural glam on and do something different from your daily buns and twists especially if that event is your wedding day!
Styling your natural hair for your wedding day doesn't mean you don't need to pamper your hair as you'll pamper your skin...
You're definitely going to go to the spa, get your mani and pedi....so why not treat your natural hair too?!
Before your big day, make sure your hair is ubermoisturised. When your hair is properly moisturised, it will hold styles well, be more defined and won't frizz up easily. No one wants frizzy hair on their wedding day....or any important event for that matter!
P.S. Even though I mention 'wedding'....feel free to slot in any major event you need to get prepped up for!
PRE WEDDING HAIR CARE
1. Snip off any split ends. Cleanse your hair and scalp with a moisturising creamy cleanser. Another moisturising option for cleansing your hair is using a cleansing mask such as Bentonite or Rhasshoul clay...
2. Follow up the cleansing with a deep conditioning mask to hydrate your hair. This is a time to treat whatever hair issues you have with your hair.
Incorporate the necessary oils, herbs and natural products into the deep conditioning mask. It's your wedding, make sure you use the best. Don't skimp on quality.
3. Follow up the deep conditioning with a hair and scalp massage using stimulating and moisturising oils to trap in moisture within the cortex of the hair.
If properly done, your hair should be soft, silky with well hydrated coils.
These 'ember' months are usually full of social events such as office dinners, weddings, family parties, Christmas parties, red carpet events and so on.
This is a really good opportunity to get your natural glam on and do something different from your daily buns and twists especially if that event is your wedding day!
Styling your natural hair for your wedding day doesn't mean you don't need to pamper your hair as you'll pamper your skin...
You're definitely going to go to the spa, get your mani and pedi....so why not treat your natural hair too?!
Before your big day, make sure your hair is ubermoisturised. When your hair is properly moisturised, it will hold styles well, be more defined and won't frizz up easily. No one wants frizzy hair on their wedding day....or any important event for that matter!
P.S. Even though I mention 'wedding'....feel free to slot in any major event you need to get prepped up for!
PRE WEDDING HAIR CARE
1. Snip off any split ends. Cleanse your hair and scalp with a moisturising creamy cleanser. Another moisturising option for cleansing your hair is using a cleansing mask such as Bentonite or Rhasshoul clay...
2. Follow up the cleansing with a deep conditioning mask to hydrate your hair. This is a time to treat whatever hair issues you have with your hair.
Incorporate the necessary oils, herbs and natural products into the deep conditioning mask. It's your wedding, make sure you use the best. Don't skimp on quality.
3. Follow up the deep conditioning with a hair and scalp massage using stimulating and moisturising oils to trap in moisture within the cortex of the hair.
If properly done, your hair should be soft, silky with well hydrated coils.
Hi people, what's been on?
If you're based in Lagos or around Lagos, I'm pleased to inform y'all that the NITC7 meetup is holding on the 30th of November 2013!
My favorite part of this meetup is that there'll be a product swap...
......so if you have products that you haven't used or have used less than half, isn't expired and is still in good condition, this is an opportunity to bring them and swap them for other similarly donated products of your choice!
The more products you bring, the more products you can swap in exchange....so hunt 'em down, people!
Then remember the Indian oiling method I've been yapping about and how it helped me retain length...well this method is just one part of the whole Ayurvedic hair and skin treatment methods and if this worked so well, I can't wait to learn about others....and the best part is....all the herbs you need will be made available at the meetup......so don't miss this opportunity!
Oh ....and this is the season for Christmas parties, weddings and family meet ups.....and after all the work you put into having healthy hair, what better way to show off than with glamorous hairstyles! This meetup is dedicated to showing you simple ways to protective style and look your best!
Okay, I've spilled enough!
For more information, go to naturalnigerian.com
Here's the flyer...(click to enlarge)
If you're based in Lagos or around Lagos, I'm pleased to inform y'all that the NITC7 meetup is holding on the 30th of November 2013!
My favorite part of this meetup is that there'll be a product swap...
......so if you have products that you haven't used or have used less than half, isn't expired and is still in good condition, this is an opportunity to bring them and swap them for other similarly donated products of your choice!
The more products you bring, the more products you can swap in exchange....so hunt 'em down, people!
Then remember the Indian oiling method I've been yapping about and how it helped me retain length...well this method is just one part of the whole Ayurvedic hair and skin treatment methods and if this worked so well, I can't wait to learn about others....and the best part is....all the herbs you need will be made available at the meetup......so don't miss this opportunity!
Oh ....and this is the season for Christmas parties, weddings and family meet ups.....and after all the work you put into having healthy hair, what better way to show off than with glamorous hairstyles! This meetup is dedicated to showing you simple ways to protective style and look your best!
Okay, I've spilled enough!
For more information, go to naturalnigerian.com
Here's the flyer...(click to enlarge)
Happy New Month everyone! I really can't keep track of the months anymore.....where's the rush??!!
Anyways this month is going to be a spectacular month for all of you....and I feel it in my bones.....and believe me I have a lot of them!
To show that my bones don't lie, I got my first award since I started this blog......this month!
I've been nominated for a Liebster Award by the esteemed Uzoma of DontTouchTheHair.......I agree with you boo, especially if I just managed a well defined twistout, braidout or elaborate updo.....oh yeah and a sleek blowout....in fact most especially if I didn't permit you to! That touch unravels all my hard work!!!
Thank You, Uzo!!!
Wanna know more....go here!
Anyways this month is going to be a spectacular month for all of you....and I feel it in my bones.....and believe me I have a lot of them!
To show that my bones don't lie, I got my first award since I started this blog......this month!
I've been nominated for a Liebster Award by the esteemed Uzoma of DontTouchTheHair.......I agree with you boo, especially if I just managed a well defined twistout, braidout or elaborate updo.....oh yeah and a sleek blowout....in fact most especially if I didn't permit you to! That touch unravels all my hard work!!!
Thank You, Uzo!!!
Wanna know more....go here!
NAPPILYNIGERIAN....MOM......CELEBRATING PARENTS WITH CURLY KIDS....
By Hadassah Agbaps - October 30, 2013
Adorable! |
Hi people, what's been on?
I've been feeling under the weather of late and have been wondering why.
I'm blessed with the fact that I've never really gone to the hospital for any ailment. Being the daughter of parents in the medical field and practically growing up in a hospital, I never knew what it meant to get sick, go to the hospital or purchase drugs.
Anytime I had to leave home, my dad made sure I didn't lack a months supply of prophylactic drugs to make sure I didn't get sick. If eventually I did, the drugs I needed to get better were within reach and in event of any major illness (which rarely occurred) I was referred to the nearest hospital owned by a friend.
Once in a while I had full medicals done...so, I never really had the whole hospital experience until recently.....
I was feeling really ill and from my symptoms was diagnosed with malaria. I took the recommended drugs, got well but after like two weeks took ill again.
We had lost two members of my extended family to illnesses unknown.
At first there'll be simple complaints like headaches and stomachaches and most times these symptoms will be brushed aside as stress related until it got worse. Then they'll be rushed to the hospital and then it'll be too late...
I've been feeling under the weather of late and have been wondering why.
I'm blessed with the fact that I've never really gone to the hospital for any ailment. Being the daughter of parents in the medical field and practically growing up in a hospital, I never knew what it meant to get sick, go to the hospital or purchase drugs.
Anytime I had to leave home, my dad made sure I didn't lack a months supply of prophylactic drugs to make sure I didn't get sick. If eventually I did, the drugs I needed to get better were within reach and in event of any major illness (which rarely occurred) I was referred to the nearest hospital owned by a friend.
Once in a while I had full medicals done...so, I never really had the whole hospital experience until recently.....
I was feeling really ill and from my symptoms was diagnosed with malaria. I took the recommended drugs, got well but after like two weeks took ill again.
We had lost two members of my extended family to illnesses unknown.
At first there'll be simple complaints like headaches and stomachaches and most times these symptoms will be brushed aside as stress related until it got worse. Then they'll be rushed to the hospital and then it'll be too late...
INDIAN OILING METHOD FOR LENGTH RETENTION IN NATURAL HAIR
By Hadassah Agbaps - October 24, 2013
Hi peeps, what's been on?
My post today will be about a method I incorporated into my regimen to help me retain length. This post took a long time coming but I had to be sure!
My hair has been growing longer and I noticed that the older parts got dryer and were prone to breaking off easily.
Usually at this point, I'll trim my hair but since I decided to challenge myself to grow my hair waist length...just because....I decided it was time to adapt a length retention routine into my regimen.
The henna and protein treatments has helped strengthen my hair and make it less porous but it doesn't stop my ends from getting dry.
The LOC mix has proved effective in providing daily moisture but I felt I still needed more to reinforce my fine hair and make it stronger to withstand manipulation.
I decided to research on the cultural hair practices of people known to have the longest hair.......Indians!
Indians have such beautiful thick long glossy hair. With hair that long, it is naturally supposed to be prone to breakage but something in their routine must be doing a good job to preserve the length of their hair.
My post today will be about a method I incorporated into my regimen to help me retain length. This post took a long time coming but I had to be sure!
My hair has been growing longer and I noticed that the older parts got dryer and were prone to breaking off easily.
Usually at this point, I'll trim my hair but since I decided to challenge myself to grow my hair waist length...just because....I decided it was time to adapt a length retention routine into my regimen.
The henna and protein treatments has helped strengthen my hair and make it less porous but it doesn't stop my ends from getting dry.
The LOC mix has proved effective in providing daily moisture but I felt I still needed more to reinforce my fine hair and make it stronger to withstand manipulation.
I decided to research on the cultural hair practices of people known to have the longest hair.......Indians!
Indians have such beautiful thick long glossy hair. With hair that long, it is naturally supposed to be prone to breakage but something in their routine must be doing a good job to preserve the length of their hair.
NAPPILYNIGERIANGIRL: MEET SANNI OLUWATOYIN
By Hadassah Agbaps - October 23, 2013
Hi people, what's been on?
Sorry for the long hiatus. I missed blogging too!
I have been kept really busy by a conference I attended this past week and haven't had much time to sit down and share what's been happening. I had to wake up as early as 4am and sometimes didn't return till 10pm. I'm a member of the Organization of Women in Science in Developing World (OSWD) and we had a meeting in Sunyani with the theme centered around climate change and ways to mitigate the effects of climate change in Africa.....so that post about "eco-friendly hair and skincare"....I wasn't kidding....hehehe!
Anyways, I won't bore y'all with geeky chatter (if you're interested in details, send me an email) and I'll go straight to the hair gist....this'll be a hair diary of sorts....
I decided that from now on I'll rock my fro whenever I travel out of Nigeria instead of the usual braids and weave I rock by default. I don't really think about why I do this....just habit I guess.
Someone asked me a question about how my hair fares in different climates and I was like....seriously....I've not really bothered to know how....well, that's the point of blogging, right?!
To learn and to share.....so here's my hair diary in Ghana.
WHAT I TOOK
Believe it or not, I took just ONE hair care product.
I'm that kinda gal that packs everything but the kitchen sink "just in case of incasities".
I like being prepared for any event life might throw at me...but this time I decided to pack light.....(anyway I was told I'd carry my luggage alone.)
Since my fro is going to be out, it was tempting to carry all my hair arsenal....but I felt that since I'll be blogging about travelling with free natural hair, the less products I take, the better.
So I packed,
Sorry for the long hiatus. I missed blogging too!
I have been kept really busy by a conference I attended this past week and haven't had much time to sit down and share what's been happening. I had to wake up as early as 4am and sometimes didn't return till 10pm. I'm a member of the Organization of Women in Science in Developing World (OSWD) and we had a meeting in Sunyani with the theme centered around climate change and ways to mitigate the effects of climate change in Africa.....so that post about "eco-friendly hair and skincare"....I wasn't kidding....hehehe!
Anyways, I won't bore y'all with geeky chatter (if you're interested in details, send me an email) and I'll go straight to the hair gist....this'll be a hair diary of sorts....
I decided that from now on I'll rock my fro whenever I travel out of Nigeria instead of the usual braids and weave I rock by default. I don't really think about why I do this....just habit I guess.
Someone asked me a question about how my hair fares in different climates and I was like....seriously....I've not really bothered to know how....well, that's the point of blogging, right?!
To learn and to share.....so here's my hair diary in Ghana.
WHAT I TOOK
Believe it or not, I took just ONE hair care product.
I'm that kinda gal that packs everything but the kitchen sink "just in case of incasities".
I like being prepared for any event life might throw at me...but this time I decided to pack light.....(anyway I was told I'd carry my luggage alone.)
Since my fro is going to be out, it was tempting to carry all my hair arsenal....but I felt that since I'll be blogging about travelling with free natural hair, the less products I take, the better.
So I packed,
Hi peeps! What's been on?
The weather is gradually changing to wet and cool with hot sunny...did I say hot afternoons....I'm confused...... and am I really talking about the weather?!!! *face in hands*
.....anyway guess who had a cold....yeap....moi...sniff sniff...and I enjoy being a baby about it....hot soup, anyone?!
I'm sure you can tell from the weather talk, I'm not exciting at the moment....lol!
The weather is gradually changing to wet and cool with hot sunny...did I say hot afternoons....I'm confused...... and am I really talking about the weather?!!! *face in hands*
.....anyway guess who had a cold....yeap....moi...sniff sniff...and I enjoy being a baby about it....hot soup, anyone?!
I'm sure you can tell from the weather talk, I'm not exciting at the moment....lol!
Crochet braids/weaves is a very good styling option for your natural hair that unlike weaves gives you more flexibilty with styling.
It's gentle on your hairline and easy to do yourself....like I did.
Here are videos to help you or your stylist nail this lovely protective hair style courtesy of BlackWomenHair......she makes it look so easy!!!!
It's gentle on your hairline and easy to do yourself....like I did.
Crochet weave done by me using Expression hot water Kanekalon hair |
Here are videos to help you or your stylist nail this lovely protective hair style courtesy of BlackWomenHair......she makes it look so easy!!!!
source: here |
NIGERIA IS 53! WOOOHOOO!!!
Okay....I know a lot of people will say "why so excited, we aren't seeing anything to be excited about?" . Nigeria's 53, so what?
Well, truth be told, it's easy to see different things to dislike about Nigeria such as the problematic clause supporting 'Under age marriage'
There is however several things I love about Nigeria.....like how the governors in several states are trying their best to make them easier to live in by implementing free education policies at pre secondary school level (though I wonder where they fished out some illiterate teachers), improving on power supply, better road network and transportation. If they keep this up and maintain them, then there'll be more things to be excited about.
Be that as it may......HAPPY INDEPENDENCE, NIGERIA!
........so....the hair talk.....of course!
There's this belief among Nigerians and other people around the world that Nigerian hair is tough, e sabi break comb well well. It's unmanageable and so not attractive!
In one word, 'BAD HAIR'.
Any woman with healthy, bouncy, long hair is simply NOT Nigerian. Period.
Any woman with long hair has a weave on.
Any woman with manageable hair is "lucky" or "is mixed possibly with Indian" or "lives in obodo oyibo" or "has Fulani ancestry" or "is using some secret potion".
My dears, the truth is BAD HAIR CARE PRACTICES equals BAD HAIR and GOOD HAIR CARE PRACTICES equals GOOD HAIR.
"NIGERIANS' GOT GOOD HAIR TOO"
This series is to celebrate the beauty of Nigerian natural hair by showcasing Nigerians with gorgeous beautiful healthy hair that is all theirs!!!
Wonder who this Nigerian is? |
......or who she is??? |
.......or who this Nigerian Rapunzel is? |
Meet Bassey Akan..She's Nigerian with a Nigerian mother and a Nigerian father .....and yep, all that relaxed hair is hers!!! |
I'm so excited!!!!
..........so sit back, relax, chew corn with coconut/ube .........and enjoy!!!!
Source: here |
P.S. If you're Nigerian, think you've got GOOD HAIR and will love to show and tell....or you know anyone that does, DO NOT HESITATE TO SEND AN EMAIL TO nappilynigeriangirl@gmail.com
The most annoying thing about hair is that you can cut it in a
second, but then it will take ages to grow long again, going through,
sometimes, some awkward halfway lengths that can be very annoying. But don’t
worry, if you want your hair long without having to wait for years, there’s a
very easy solution: extensions!
Those who say they look tacky or shabby don’t know what they are
talking about, as good quality extensions are absolutely undetectable, you only
have to know how to wear them.
NATURAL HAIR BASICS: THE TEN CURLMANDMENTS (repost)
By Hadassah Agbaps - September 15, 2013
Thou shalt not covet the hair type of another.Thou shalt eat wholesome foods and drink enough water to nurture hair from within.
"Garbage in; Garbage out"
2. Thou shalt keep scalp and hair clean.
Wash hair at most once a week to remove dirt and buildup which retards healthy growth. It is advisable to dilute shampoo and apply from roots to ends.
Courtesy: chichiscuisine |
FOOD INDULGENCE: HOW TO MAKE TRIPLE DELIGHT PIZZA
By Hadassah Agbaps - September 06, 2013
Source: chichiscuisine |
Then I notice as the excitement dwindles down to 'bleh' acceptance as the novelty of her natural hair wear off. She finally finds products that work for her, mastered a style that works for her and then there is almost nothing new.
I also noticed the increase in the number of women going natural.
In a mall where initially, the only natural haired people were children, you now find a lot of grown women sporting natural hair in one style or the other with pride.
In Nigeria, it's like going natural is gradually becoming a fad. I noticed a lot of natural haired teenagers in Shoprite.
The media has even taken notice and 'going natural' has become news that should be reported.
Celebrities worldwide are going natural. On social media, a recurring news or Instagram or blog update is about a celebrity revealing her natural hair for the world to see.
I, as much as the next natural haired person enjoy the newness and freshness of it all.
I enjoy the natural hair meetups, I enjoy the natural hair discussion groups and communities, I enjoy the increasing number of compliments, I enjoy the new products targeted at natural hair cropping up, I enjoy everything!
But then I know like all fads, it may come to an end.
So what happens when almost all women become natural?
FOOD INDULGENCE: HOW TO MAKE NIGERIAN FRIED RICE
By Hadassah Agbaps - August 29, 2013
It's almost weekend and I thought I'd share a recipe for making fried rice the Nigerian way.
It's one of my favorite meals because it contains fresh crunchy veggies and it's so colorful!!!
No Nigerian event is complete without Fried Rice.
At weddings, naming ceremonies, birthday parties, graduations, just because celebrations, Fried rice has been invited to all.
Even on Sundays, where it's an unwritten rule in most Nigerian homes to cook rice, fried rice is most likely to be considered after jollof rice and rice with stew.
The bff of fried rice is almost always fried chicken or turkey.....so the complete meal is called FRIED RICE AND CHICKEN........with a side of Nigerian style coleslaw!
I don't know why but when our Nigerian mothers try to teach us how to cook, it almost always looks way more complicated than it really is.....just like those hardcover cookbooks I gave up reading long ago! LOL!!!!
" You better learn oh, before they say I didn't teach you how to cook!!!!" is the most likely thing you'll hear over your shoulders as they monitor you. LOL!!!
My cousin, Chichi is a fabulous cook and I love the fact that she makes cooking really easy! In her words ".....because cooking should be fun and not a daunting task!"
I hear ya, boo!!!!
She has a blog chichiscuisine.blogspot.com where she shows you how to make the most complicated Nigerian and international dishes the easy way (too easy sometimes) using ingredients available in Nigeria.
For those "oyibo" a.k.a. foreign recipes, she'll show you good alternatives to some ingredients that are difficult to source locally.
She has generously given me the permission to share her recipes with y'all on this blog....yayyy....
NNG is not all about natural hair you know!
I'm thinking of posting one every Thursday so you can try it out on the weekend....any different suggestion?
Also, if you have any recipes you'd like to share, do send it to nappilynigeriangirl@gmail.com with the heading "FOOD INDULGENCE".
Well, before I bore you with my chitchat, LET'S GET COOKING!!!!
Fried Rice
5 standard cups of rice
2 kg chicken/turkey
1 kg Carrots
2 large Green Peppers
1/2kg Green beans
10 hotdogs
4 Spring Onions
2 Onions
Knorr cubes
Curry
Salt
4 cloves of Garlic
Powdered Ginger
Vegetable Oil
1.) Parboil your rice and set aside.
2.) Spice your meat with Knorr, Curry, Salt, and Ginger.
Cut the onions and garlic and add to the meat.
Steam the meat on low heat till it brings out its own stock.
When the meat is almost done, add some water and adjust the spicing to your taste. Let it cook a little more.
Make sure you have enough stock to finish cooking the rice.
3.) When the meat is done, strain it from the stock and fry or bake.
Return the stock to the stove and bring to a boil.
Pour in the parboiled rice and cook till the rice is done and water is fully dry.
4.) Cut up the vegetables and hotdogs. Add a little oil to a big pot and stir fry the vegetables. Spice up the veggies to your taste.
5.) Add the cooked rice to the veggies and mix well.
6.) Enjoy with a big piece of chicken or turkey ;)
Easy right????!!!!
For more recipes, go to chichiscuisine.blogspot.com
It's one of my favorite meals because it contains fresh crunchy veggies and it's so colorful!!!
No Nigerian event is complete without Fried Rice.
At weddings, naming ceremonies, birthday parties, graduations, just because celebrations, Fried rice has been invited to all.
Even on Sundays, where it's an unwritten rule in most Nigerian homes to cook rice, fried rice is most likely to be considered after jollof rice and rice with stew.
The bff of fried rice is almost always fried chicken or turkey.....so the complete meal is called FRIED RICE AND CHICKEN........with a side of Nigerian style coleslaw!
I don't know why but when our Nigerian mothers try to teach us how to cook, it almost always looks way more complicated than it really is.....just like those hardcover cookbooks I gave up reading long ago! LOL!!!!
" You better learn oh, before they say I didn't teach you how to cook!!!!" is the most likely thing you'll hear over your shoulders as they monitor you. LOL!!!
My cousin, Chichi is a fabulous cook and I love the fact that she makes cooking really easy! In her words ".....because cooking should be fun and not a daunting task!"
I hear ya, boo!!!!
She has a blog chichiscuisine.blogspot.com where she shows you how to make the most complicated Nigerian and international dishes the easy way (too easy sometimes) using ingredients available in Nigeria.
For those "oyibo" a.k.a. foreign recipes, she'll show you good alternatives to some ingredients that are difficult to source locally.
She has generously given me the permission to share her recipes with y'all on this blog....yayyy....
NNG is not all about natural hair you know!
I'm thinking of posting one every Thursday so you can try it out on the weekend....any different suggestion?
Also, if you have any recipes you'd like to share, do send it to nappilynigeriangirl@gmail.com with the heading "FOOD INDULGENCE".
Well, before I bore you with my chitchat, LET'S GET COOKING!!!!
Source: chichiscuisine.blogspot.com |
5 standard cups of rice
2 kg chicken/turkey
1 kg Carrots
2 large Green Peppers
1/2kg Green beans
10 hotdogs
4 Spring Onions
2 Onions
Knorr cubes
Curry
Salt
4 cloves of Garlic
Powdered Ginger
Vegetable Oil
1.) Parboil your rice and set aside.
2.) Spice your meat with Knorr, Curry, Salt, and Ginger.
Cut the onions and garlic and add to the meat.
Steam the meat on low heat till it brings out its own stock.
When the meat is almost done, add some water and adjust the spicing to your taste. Let it cook a little more.
Make sure you have enough stock to finish cooking the rice.
3.) When the meat is done, strain it from the stock and fry or bake.
Return the stock to the stove and bring to a boil.
Pour in the parboiled rice and cook till the rice is done and water is fully dry.
4.) Cut up the vegetables and hotdogs. Add a little oil to a big pot and stir fry the vegetables. Spice up the veggies to your taste.
5.) Add the cooked rice to the veggies and mix well.
6.) Enjoy with a big piece of chicken or turkey ;)
Easy right????!!!!
For more recipes, go to chichiscuisine.blogspot.com
NATURAL HAIR BASICS FOR CHILDREN: MAKING THEM COMFORTABLE
By Hadassah Agbaps - August 22, 2013
Natural hair Mother and child |
Hi people, what's been on?
Well, I wrote an earlier post about the 'in between' length of natural hair growth and how to style it.
I also posted some photos I thought would inspire y'all stylewise and one statement I got recently was that
'the models in the photos I used weren't Nigerian and that it wasn't easy to make those styles in Nigeria seeing as we don't really have natural hair salons that can work with kinky hair without damaging it'.
While this is true, I think it's still not impossible to achieve some of these styles in a regular salon especially if it involves minitwists, braids and cornrows.
One trick I've learnt while styling my natural hair was to approach hair stylists that make children's hair.
This is because you're more likely to find children with natural hair than grownups and this means that that hair stylist will be at least familiar with natural hair texture.
It's still up to you to prepare your hair properly before going to the hair stylist and best results are gotten the day after your wash day.
Well, I wrote an earlier post about the 'in between' length of natural hair growth and how to style it.
I also posted some photos I thought would inspire y'all stylewise and one statement I got recently was that
'the models in the photos I used weren't Nigerian and that it wasn't easy to make those styles in Nigeria seeing as we don't really have natural hair salons that can work with kinky hair without damaging it'.
While this is true, I think it's still not impossible to achieve some of these styles in a regular salon especially if it involves minitwists, braids and cornrows.
One trick I've learnt while styling my natural hair was to approach hair stylists that make children's hair.
This is because you're more likely to find children with natural hair than grownups and this means that that hair stylist will be at least familiar with natural hair texture.
It's still up to you to prepare your hair properly before going to the hair stylist and best results are gotten the day after your wash day.
NATURAL HAIR REGIMEN...WHO BENEFITS, ME OR MY HAIR???
By Hadassah Agbaps - August 08, 2013
It may seem that to be a good naturalista, one must have a regimen. I'm also guilty of recommending the development of a regimen when trying to help out new naturals but one day, I got thinking....
"Is this natural hair regimen more for us than our hair?"
It's surprising when a natural is interviewed and she says,
"I don't really have a regimen per se, I just fill the need of my hair. If it's dry, I moisturise. I use gel on some days, nothing at all on others. I twist some days, wear my hair out on others. I don't really have a pattern" .....and when you take a look at her thick, long, healthy mane, the first thought is...
"this chick isn't telling the truth. She's hiding her regimen!"
I mean, we take time to develop a series of steps and products that we can use any given Sunday to care for our hair. Admittedly it may work out and our hair rewards us with fabulousity and health but when it doesn't, we keep spending time trying to fine tune the series of steps - some of which may take a whole day and then some - until we get the result that in "our minds" make for fabulous hair.
We develop routines for wash day...pre poo, deep conditioning, detangling, moisturising and styling etc.
We have routines for styling...wash and gos or twists from Monday through Friday and twist outs on weekends or buns from Monday through Friday and wash and gos on the weekends etc.
My point is, are these routines because we listen to our hair and know when it needs to be washed, moisturised, twisted, bunned etc or is it because the routine fits into our lifestyle so that even if our hair is moisturised, we moisturise anyway because on our "timetable" which we call "natural hair regimen" it has to be moisturised every two days etc.
We've been brought up with the mindset that everything needs rules, a timetable, a schedule, a particular order and what not.
It doesn't matter if it's necessary or not.
Some may argue that without rules, there'll be utter chaos and that's for another day.
Some of us feel the need for total control in all aspects of our lives and when things doesn't go the way we plan, it's utter chaos.
O.K. back to hair!
Many of us do not really listen to our hair when trying to develop a regimen.
We just browse through natural hair sites, pick up someone else's routine, add one or two products and ta da! ...we've developed our own regimen.
Some of us just get out schedule books/diaries and mark out days convenient for us to wash, deep condition and moisturise.... whether our hair needs it before those days or after doesn't really matter....and when our hair fails to thrive and look as good as that naturalista's with "no regimen ", we feel like our hair is ungrateful. We feel like we've failed.
I'm not trying to say creating a regimen is a bad thing.
If it coincides with your hair's needs at that point in time, you really don't have a problem.
What I'm trying to say is do not be rigid about your regimen if it's not working for you.
Sometimes your hair just needs you to "freestyle"!
- when does it feel dry? What are my quick go to products for combating dryness?
- when does it really need a trim?
Some say you have to trim every 6-8 weeks and we blindly fit it into the regimen.
The truth is, some need to trim less often than that and some more.
Find what works for your hair and get a random weekend to trim.
- what styles are best for my hair?
There are periods in your hair's life when it wants to take a break from twists and be a fro..some days, it just wants to be tucked in tight.
Learning one go to "out" style and one protective style that fits your lifestyle style may help in this instance.
- what products are best for my hair yet fits into my lifestyle with regards to application time,hold, shine etc. Here, you have to experiment but try to keep things simple.
It may be just olive oil for shine, aloe vera gel for hold, ACV for cleaning or it may be Dax for shine, Ecostyler gel for hold, Carol's daughter blah blah for cleaning.
Observe your hair.
-when does it need washing?
Some may need to wash as often as thrice a week and for others, once a month is fine.
Find out how you can get in a quick wash when you are on the move!
I think a regimen should favour BOTH our hair and our lifestyle to be considered successful....if you even really need one!!!!...... and creating that balance may be by simply observing your hair.
What do you think?
Is a regimen really necessary?
Is your regimen really for your hair or just for you?
NATURAL HAIR STYLES : MASTERING THE NATURAL HAIR UPDO
By Hadassah Agbaps - August 06, 2013
Hi people, what's been on?
I've been getting messages requesting for versatile natural hair styles one can rock to the office at the same time go for a date, wedding, church....anywhere. For some reason, I can't upload video tutorials for the updos I had in mind.
So, in the meantime, here are pictures of some simple updos I think you can try out at a glance.
One secret for getting the best results is styling on old twistouts to give a bit of stretch.
For volume, I simply spray hair lightly with just water.
To smoothen edges, you can either use water, a scarf or some gel.
To keep your style in place, carefully placed bobby pins prove useful.
Maybe when I get someone to hold up the camera for me, I could do pictorials of some easy hairstyles I love.
Here's the natural hair updo lookbook and happy styling!
Source: here |
My fave go to updo. The beehive Source: here |
Source: here |
Loc'd sistas aren't left out. I've been neglecting you guys!!! Source: here |
Source: here |
Source: here |
This is easy peasy Source: here |
This beautiful one is for TWAs Source: here |
Source: here |
PRODUCT REVIEW: NATUR VITAL CONDITIONER FOR SENSITIVE SKIN with SAGE and GINSENG EXTRACTS
By Hadassah Agbaps - August 05, 2013
A new high skin tolerance formula monitored by dermatologists that combines the effectiveness of various plant extracts to care for hair in the most natural way.
Suitable for sensitive scalp
Contains 100% organically grown Ginseng and Sage extracts.
Contains no colorants, silicones, parabens,preservatives or mineral oils.
PRODUCT PRICE
Available in Nigeria for N1000- N1600 depending on location.
Here's the poster. It's coming up this Saturday 3/8/13.
More deets on naturalnigerian.com
More deets on naturalnigerian.com
STYLE OF THE WEEK: A FAB UPDO ON IN BETWEEN LENGTH NATURALHAIR
By Hadassah Agbaps - August 01, 2013
Hi people! Welcome to the month of August and a fabulous year bolting away!
As in August, already?!
Whew!
Well, today I was working on a product review post.
I have a lot of product reviews waiting to be shared but haven't really gotten round to sorting them out.
I was still trying to organize the PR's when I had a pleasant visit from Cyndy and her lovely sis.
Cyndy is a fab professional MUA (makeup artist) going natural by gradually transitioning.
(I really should get her to spill on makeup secrets...what dy'all say to that...hint hint)
Her natural hair has grown to that 'in between length' I was talking about earlier.
Her hair is healthy and moisturised and her sis (a transitioner by association) had done a fabulous twistout for her but she needed more styling options.
As in August, already?!
Whew!
Well, today I was working on a product review post.
I have a lot of product reviews waiting to be shared but haven't really gotten round to sorting them out.
I was still trying to organize the PR's when I had a pleasant visit from Cyndy and her lovely sis.
Cyndy is a fab professional MUA (makeup artist) going natural by gradually transitioning.
(I really should get her to spill on makeup secrets...what dy'all say to that...hint hint)
Her natural hair has grown to that 'in between length' I was talking about earlier.
Her hair is healthy and moisturised and her sis (a transitioner by association) had done a fabulous twistout for her but she needed more styling options.
That teenage fro |
What's been on?! Hope you gave your fabulous selves a treat spiritually and physically?
I'd love to know your secrets for staying fabulous in these busy times...I can't keep sharing mine all the time, y'know!!!
This weekend, I treated myself to spiritual cleansing and discovered I still had a lot to learn about absolutely loving myself and others (even when I'd rather *bang bang blow off smoke* some peeps... lol!).
To top it off, I did a bit of yoga (I can finally bend my waist) , a secret deep conditioning treatment for my hair and skin (not going to spill until y'all do) , then out for mani and pedi (got my toenails painted gold) and a bit of retail therapy with my sis (new products y'all!) and then capped it all off with dinner .
I think I'm revved up for the week ahead!
OLD SCHOOL NATURAL HAIR VS. NEW AGE NATURAL HAIR IN NIGERIA....THE INTERVIEW
By Hadassah Agbaps - July 23, 2013
Hey guys, what's been on?
Well, for starters, it's a pleasure to let you know I've been featured by a blogger pal of mine Fola, the author of folasoasis.blogspot.com . She awarded me the title "Hair Crush Numero Uno".....It's a very important title because it means I have to keep my hair in tip top condition always....thanks a lot Fola!!!!! No more hitting the pillows without my satin bonnet....*mock annoyance*.
We bonded over our love for Christ, fashion (she teaches jewelry making in Lagos), healthy living and of course healthy hair!She just recently did the big chop lopping off her long tresses in one fell swoop!!!!
So for dealers in human hair extensions, we have 100% original Nigerian hair for sale! We're selling on first come, first serve basis, so indicate your interest in the comment section and we'll get back to you!
Here's what Fola's hair looked like BEFORE the big chop....
Well, for starters, it's a pleasure to let you know I've been featured by a blogger pal of mine Fola, the author of folasoasis.blogspot.com . She awarded me the title "Hair Crush Numero Uno".....It's a very important title because it means I have to keep my hair in tip top condition always....thanks a lot Fola!!!!! No more hitting the pillows without my satin bonnet....*mock annoyance*.
We bonded over our love for Christ, fashion (she teaches jewelry making in Lagos), healthy living and of course healthy hair!She just recently did the big chop lopping off her long tresses in one fell swoop!!!!
So for dealers in human hair extensions, we have 100% original Nigerian hair for sale! We're selling on first come, first serve basis, so indicate your interest in the comment section and we'll get back to you!
100% original Nigerian hair for sale!!! Source: folasoasis.blogspot.com |
NAPPY Q & A: ITCHY SCALP, PREVENTION, CONTROL AND TREATMENT
By Hadassah Agbaps - July 17, 2013
Is this you? |
Hi people! What's been on? I've been really occupied lately with exams, interviews, meetings and a bout of malaria....but I'm back now!
Has anyone of you been battling with itchy scalp?
I've have suffered from itching but not to the point of hair loss that a fellow naturalista of mine complained to me about. There was a round short patch in the middle of her head where the hair was breaking off. I never thought itchy scalp could be that serious!
Itchy scalp for me meant dandruff, product buildup and dryness which was usually remedied by shampooing and light moisturizing with a natural oil mixed with an antimicrobial essential oil like eucalyptus and I'm good to go and sometimes I noticed faster growth in those itchy areas, probably because of the hair massage I was forced to give to those areas. I don't keep long nails so there wasn't any fear of tearing my scalp apart!
Another lady, this time relaxed also complained to me about itching which was driving her crazy to the point of a big chop!
Thank God, what both needed was a slight change in their routine and products and they were relieved.
So for anyone out there also suffering from itchy scalp, I'd like to share this with you. Before I start, I'd like to outline the root causes of itchy scalp for prevention sake.
Itching is not necessarily as a result of bad hygiene.
Some skin diseases like psoriasis can also cause itching of the scalp. Sometimes, the itching is localized only to the scalp area. In other cases, it may extend to the rest of the body. Repeated itching can result in scratches or excoriations of the skin. This could promote bacterial infection.
Various causes of an itchy scalp are:
Dry Scalp: Some people have a dry skin including that of the scalp. The dryness results in itching. The itching could get worse in the winter months or following repeated washing of the hair with harsh shampoos. Such shampoos should be avoided and moisturizing creams and lotions should be used. Regular use of hair oil can help to reduce this problem.
Infestation with Lice: Infestation with lice, small parasites which suck blood, is common in females in crowded areas. The lice spread from one person to another through close contact. The bites of the lice result in itching especially behind the ears. Repeated scratching of the scalp results in excoriation of the skin. Bacteria may grow in the skin scratches resulting in infection. The condition is diagnosed by the presence of lice and the eggs of lice called nits in the hair. Use of special medicated shampoos and lotions helps to control the condition.
FUNGAL INFECTION
Dandruff: Dandruff is a common scalp condition that appears after adolescence. It follows infection of an oily scalp by a small fungus called Malassezia furfur. The patient repeatedly scratches the scalp, which is followed by falling off of scales. It may be accompanied by temporary loss of hair. Dandruff in the presence of an excessively oily scalp with additional inflammation of the scalp is referred to as seborrheic dermatitis. In severe cases, scales may also be observed in the face area. Dandruff can be treated with shampoos containing ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione or selenium sulfide.
Cradle Cap: Cradle cap is a condition that affects newborn children of 3 months or younger. In these cases, there is crusting over the head with loss of hair. The exact cause of this condition is not known. It may be due to excess secretion of sebaceous glands due to the influence of maternal hormones. The yeast, Malassezia furfur, may also play a role in causing this condition. The condition is usually harmless and gets better after the baby is around a year old.
Ringworm Infection of the Scalp: Ringworm is a fungal infection that results in circular thick lesions. In the scalp, the area over the ringworm is accompanied by marked itching and breaking of hair. It responds to treatment with antifungal medications.
BACTERIAL INFECTION:
Bacterial Infection of the Scalp: Bacterial infection of the scalp results in itching. Besides pus formation, oozing, crusting and matting of hair is also observed. Local or oral antibiotics are used to treat the condition.
Hair Folliculitis: Inflammation of the hair follicle is called folliculitis. Folliculitis occurs because of bacterial or fungal infection. Besides causing pain, folliculitis can also result in itching.
VIRAL INFECTION
Chickenpox: Varicella zoster is a virus that causes chickenpox. Chickenpox may be associated with blisters in the scalp, which result in itching. The virus can also affect the nerves in older individuals resulting in shingles. Fluid-filled blisters are found along the nerves, with pain and itching along the nerves.
INFLAMMATION
Contact Dermatitis: Contact dermatitis is an allergic reaction of the skin to certain chemicals applied to the skin (in this case, the scalp) like shampoos, dyes etc. The itching is usually absent the first time the chemical is applied. However, subsequent applications may produce itching, oozing, crusting and scaling. The patient should avoid contact with the allergen and may require local steroid creams.
I'd like to add that contact dermatitis can also occur with natural products if you are allergic to them
Psoriasis of the Scalp: Psoriasis is a condition where the skin is covered with thickened flat areas called plaques. The plaques are covered with silvery scales. The plaques on the scalp are usually accompanied with plaques over the rest of the body, thus helping to diagnose the condition. Psoriasis of the scalp may also be accompanied by arthritis.
Lichen Planus: Lichen planus is another inflammatory disorder that affects the skin including the scalp. It results in scarring and loss of hair over the affected part. It is treated with steroids.
Hypothyroidism: Thyroid problem can cause itching scalp. The hormones secreted by the thyroid glands helps the body maintain moisture levels, among other things. When the hormone levels are low, one experiences dry itchy skin, dry hair and scalp and even dry mouth.
PSYCHOLOGICAL CAUSES
Stress and anxiety can result in repeated scratching of the head, with subsequent loss of hair.
Source:medindia
I'd like to add, another cause of itching that is overlooked is:
The use of expired natural oils and butters on the scalp or unhygienically processed and stored natural oils and butters. We mistakenly assume that all natural products are good irrespective of the source and condition. That is wrong. Microbes growing on the natural oils and butters degrade them and release waste products which may be toxic and irritate the skin. So if it's rancid, has an odd colour, stored unhygienically , please avoid.
Another thing to note is a seemingly good natural oil or butter if applied over generously on skin or scalp may cause itching due to growth of microbes. What is food for your skin and scalp is also food for the microbes which naturally reside on the skin most especially if it's dirty.
CONTROL AND TREATMENT
1. Using a good quality shampoo, conditioner and other hair care products: Poor quality shampoo containing drying sulphates, poor quality conditioners and hair care products containing drying alcohols and pore clogging silicones are the leading causes of dryness and contact dermatitis which causes itchy scalp. It's important thus to purchase good quality hair products. Also a dirt free scalp can be described as healthy scalp so the first step is to make sure that you wash your hair a minimum of once a week. In choosing shampoos, you may get the medicated shampoo with antibacterial elements or buy the hypo allergenic ones to avoid this problem from ever coming back. This was the solution to the relaxed sister's itch. She had to be more careful with relaxer application, greasing her scalp lightly to protect her scalp. She also had to change her shampoo, conditioner and moisturizer because her shampoo contained drying sulphates that was harsh, her conditioner and moisturizer contained mineral oil, petrolatum and other pore clogging chemicals which she used directly on her scalp. Shea butter was a bit heavy for her scalp but castor oil mixed with olive oil worked just fine.
2. You can use both topical and oral antibiotics and antifungal agents as recommended by your doctor. 'Social doctoring' is not the best. What worked for your friend may not work for you and you may develop drug resistance which may make the itching even harder to cure.
3.Drink water. Water keeps your skin fresh and well hydrated. In turn it will also keep your scalp and hair fresh and hydrated. To keep your body moistened, drink at least 8 cups of water everyday and cut down on caffeinated drinks.
4. Spritzing - Make a simple hair spritz. This spritz can be as simple as water and tea tree oil/eucalyptus /rose oil or your can use a store bought spray leave-in conditioner. Just spritz your scalp throughout the week, when your scalp looks dry or gets itchy.
5. Avoid use of heavy oils on scalp. Make sure, whatever you use doesn’t have heavy oils such as petrolatum, silicones, mineral oils and even natural oils that could cause build up, you want it to be a light spray that your scalp can absorb. This is a better alternative to greasing the scalp.You don't need super fancy hair oils (though they are nice) to treat your scalp.
Olive oil is extremely moisturizing and gentle, as are amla and coconut. Make sure they are not rancid and are stored hygienically.
6. Improve nutrition:Dry scalp may be caused by nutritional deficiencies, such as not getting enough vitamins B6 and B12 in your diet. Boost your intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole-grain breads and cereals and, if necessary, through supplements such as flaxseed oil, zinc, and selenium.
7. Make sure you wash your wigs, hair nets, scarfs, bonnets, pillows, spreads, towels, combs as often as possible. This is very often overlooked and was one thing my naturalista missed. She often wore a wig and she felt washing it often would damage the wig. I advised her to wash with shampoo, air dry in the sun with the inside facing out and to always wear a wig cap before putting on the wig. This was in addition to the topical antifungal ointment she was using and it cleared up. I advised her to be light handed with shea butter application to avoid feeding microbes as well as her scalp. Thankfully, her hair is grown now!
8. Avoid fixing weaves and extensions for a long period of time. The warm humid, dirty, oily environment is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria, fungi, lice and mites.
9. Take a chill pill!
I hope these tips works for you too and if you've suffered from dry scalp and have tried a method that worked please do share!
Now I sign off to take my medications.
Till I spill again,
Live Beautifully. Naturally.
HadassaH.
PRODUCT REVIEW: NIGERIAN HAIR CARE PRODUCTS SUITABLE FOR NATURAL HAIR
By Hadassah Agbaps - July 01, 2013
Source: pintrest.com |
I'll come straight to the point by saying that your natural hair journey will be easier and happier if you just accept and love your hair just the way it is while simply admiring that of others.
It is very easy to compare your hair with another natural's and guess whose coils fall short?!!! Yes, most likely yours!!!
A NATURAL HAIR MEETUP, A NATURAL HAIR FEATURE AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN
By Hadassah Agbaps - May 28, 2013
Hi guys! What's been on?
Well, for starters, I'll like to announce (though you probably all got the memo) that there's a NATURALHAIR MEETUP IN ABUJA, NIGERIA ON 1st of JUNE!!!!
Well, for starters, I'll like to announce (though you probably all got the memo) that there's a NATURALHAIR MEETUP IN ABUJA, NIGERIA ON 1st of JUNE!!!!
Hi people! What's been on?
I'm so glad my hair is free but I still ended up putting it in a bun (see pic on instagram @nappilynigeriangirl).
I decided to take an inventory of the things I use on my hair.
I want to whittle it down to the basics..... which seems to be almost impossible because I love those shiny colourful new bottles of products for hair and skin.
Blame the mags I read for this.
I just wish I don't have to go through the anxiety of praying the products I order online make it safely to me. It's really stressful..and what about the length of time it takes for stuff to arrive?!
It hasn't been easy though considering how difficult it is to find natural hair friendly products in Nigeria.
I've finally sorted out my stash.
Here are my current products.
I'm so glad my hair is free but I still ended up putting it in a bun (see pic on instagram @nappilynigeriangirl).
I decided to take an inventory of the things I use on my hair.
I want to whittle it down to the basics..... which seems to be almost impossible because I love those shiny colourful new bottles of products for hair and skin.
Blame the mags I read for this.
I just wish I don't have to go through the anxiety of praying the products I order online make it safely to me. It's really stressful..and what about the length of time it takes for stuff to arrive?!
It hasn't been easy though considering how difficult it is to find natural hair friendly products in Nigeria.
I've finally sorted out my stash.
Here are my current products.