Good Hair

While I often use this blog as a forum to embarrass my children, the time has come for a little self-embarrassment. This post is inspired by Chris Rock's new documentary "Good Hair". While I havent actually seen the movie, I can certainly appreciate its theme of African American women and the time and money spent managing their hair.

I recently wore my hair in microbraids. For this, I visited an African braid shop where two Senagalese women teamed up to put in a ton of braids using human hair extensions. $150 for the labor, $45 for the hair, 6 hours, and 2 Tylenol later, I came out with a very versatile and manageable hair-do. It was perfect as I was in the middle of a very busy season at work and not having to deal with my hair was a bonus.

Well those things couldn't stay in forever, but, I certainly got my money's worth. After 3 months, I started the task of removing the braids. Needless to say, the process took days. I eventually had to call in my sitter for help, and we tackled the last few in 3 hours! When all was said and done I looked like a mad woman! (Note... this shot was intentionally taken from behind so that if you ever tried to use it against me, I can claim it's not me!)

But a few short hours later, I visited my stylist in Houston for a good relaxing, washing, conditioning, flat ironing... and Voila... GOOD HAIR!

'Canes vs. Tors

While the remants of Hurricane Ida wreaked havoc on the east coast, a few storms were brewing in the southwest. And if you've ever wondered whether a hurricane or a tornado is stronger, we got the answer on Saturday. The Hightower Hurricanes stormed over the Galveston Ball Tornadoes in a 48-21 R1 playoff win. Next up... "Canes take on Beaumont Westbrook at Galena Park ISD stadium on Saturday at 1pm. Hope to see you there!

Courting Gen Y

A few weeks back, I was interviewed by C&EN News for this article, which appears in the November 1st issue. Check it out.

http://pubs.acs.org/cen/coverstory/87/8744cover3.html

9-and-Oh My God, Is This Season Going to Be As Long As the Last One?

The 2009 Hightower Hurricanes ended regular season play with a record of 9-0. James' defense has dominated with the first string holding the opposing teams to an average of 2.2. points per game. This has earned them the spot as the #1 defense in the state. The 'Canes will face Willowridge High School in the District Playoffs this coming Saturday. While I certainly look forward to another great playoff run, something about the prospect of high school football at Christmas time makes me cringe.

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/hso/6695628.html

Proud Pee-Pee

Jay has decided not to wait for us to potty train him. A few weeks ago, he said"I potty! I potty!". Those words were followed by a frantic move to get his pants down, and yank his diaper off. Next came the full speed sprint to the potty. James and I took the "yeah right" attitude, and decided to just let him entertain himself. Well... he actually did go potty and he's been occasionally going on his own ever since with no direction from us. He's so proud of his pee-pee that he trots it around, showing it to each of us, before sending it to its final demise. After the flush comes a self-awarded "yay" accompanied with lots of hand clapping. Here's a shot of the big guy proudly prouncing around with pee in hand. Luckily all boy parts are concealed.

Red, Blue - GO EAGLES!

Janai started cheerleading in the Pearland Football League this summer. She really enjoys it, even though she is the youngest person on her squad and often has a hard time focusing. Here is a shot of her at the first game. The cheerleaders were in tanks/shorts because the people who made the uniforms did a pretty poor job, so they all were sent back and are in the process of being made by a different vendor.




Anyway, the Eagles won this game. Lady Long Legs then trotted around in the boyshorts and tank for the rest of the day. It's hard to tell here, but the tank has a megaphone on it and reads "Go Eagles". The funny thing is, we went to James' game later that evening (Reminder: Janai still dressed as shown above), where his Hightower Hurricanes were taking on the Eisenhower (you guessed it) Eagles. Way to cheer for the other team Janai!

School Dayz

We are two weeks into the school year here in TX. Janai started the first grade, and in case you need to be reminded ... first graders don't take naps! What has mommy learned over the last two weeks? Well, I've learned that first grade costs too much! Reality check... they use real books... lots of real books... reading books and work books that cost up to $300! (Is this college?) Oh, and a Spanish book ($10)... and a dictionary from Scholastic ($10), and a supply fee ($100). Oh, and lest I forget the tuition!!

Jay started in Toddler I. If you follow me on Facebook, you know that I was a little shocked that my little 22-month old has to wear a uniform to school. But as the last few weeks have gone by, I must admit that it makes my life so much easier. Nana has complained that we haven't posted pictures of the kiddos in their uniforms. So, here's a shot of mini-me and mini-him finishing up breakfast this morning at school.