All Grown Up: What 'Hey Arnold!' And 'Doug' Characters Would Look Like As 20-Somethings

This is very dope!!

My Makeup Story TAG

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wCite-3s4Vs

My Makeup Story! Here are the questions I answer below:
1. How old were you when you started wearing makeup?
2. How did you get into makeup?
3. What are some of your favorite brands?
4. What does makeup mean to you?
5. If you could only wear 4 products on your face what would they be?
6. What is your favorite thing about makeup?
7. What do you think about drugstore makeup vs. high end makeup?
8. What is one tip of advice you can give a beginner?
9. What is one makeup trend you never understood?
10. What do you think about the beauty community on Youtube?

Read: www.nappynikki.com
Instagram: @nappynikki
Twitter: @nappynkkivlogs

**This is not a sponsored video.
everyday thoughts of a woman. single.natural.quirky.awkward.daring.free.

Blogging for Books: I Quit Sugar by Sarah Wilson Review

[youtube=http://youtu.be/Vz7Dwg4dm1E]

Hi everyone!

I'm so excited to be reviewing my first book for Blogging for Books. It is only fitting that I choose a cookbook as my first review. I initially chose this particular book because of the title. I mean who doesn't want to become my health conscience about the sugar they intake daily. So needless to say I was quite surprised by the fact that I actually enjoyed reading it and look forward to cooking more of the recipes. To make this review quick and easy I break it down to three pros and three cons.

Pros:

1. Bright and colorful. It's a cookbook and one without color is just wrong. The author made sure to include plenty of pictures of what most of the recipes should look like. Having a visual aspect in a cookbook makes it more user friendly.


2. Factual. This book is filled with great facts about sugar and all it entails. Many things I had no clue about. I.e. the amount of sugar in one banana.


3. Recipes are easy to follow. I made one dish, the breakfast casserole[gallery columns="2" ids="2213,2214"]
   
   It turned out really good and my boyfriend loved it!

Cons:

1. Some of the items listed in the recipes are not easy to find so you would have to substitute a lot. Some items are also on the pricey side. But no one said eating healthy would be cheap.


2. The book price is a bit pricey in my opinion. I would take about $5 off. After taxes you're looking at a close $30 and that's just totally not worth it.


3. I really don't like that's she eliminates fruit in the eight week program. That's one reason why I haven't started it completely yet. I mean, I love my red plums!!

Anyway guys! I hope this helps! Be sure to go over to www.bloggingforbooks.org and sign up to get your free book!

Happy Blogging!!

Tom's of Maine Deodorant and Body Soap Challenge

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z9gI-moY5cc

Hi everyone!

I thought it would be fun to start a little experiment with my deodorant. My usual Degree deodorant just isn't working anymore. So I hope you aren't too uncomfortable with this. Enjoy and thanks for watching!

Other way to follow me:

Read: www.nappynikki.com
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/NappyNikkiVlogs
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/nappynikki

Toms of Maine: http://www.tomsofmaine.com/home

Products Mentioned:
http://www.tomsofmaine.com/product-details/new-long-lasting-deodorant-stick
http://www.tomsofmaine.com/product-details/new-naturally-dry-antiperspirant-stick
http://www.tomsofmaine.com/product-details/natural-beauty-bar-daily-moisture

Music: "Lagoa v2" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

*This is not a sponsored video! All items were purchased on my own.*

everyday thoughts of a woman. single.natural.quirky.awkward.daring.free.

the hunt

i feel that as americans we are always on the hunt.

no matter what part of our life we are in our minds are set on seek, conquer and kill (not as literally).

i live in new york city and everywhere i go there are people who are constantly on the move and thinking about the next. no one ever takes a moment to relax and just breathe.

i have found myself to slowly, or quickly become on of these people. someone who is always doing something. focusing on multiple things at once and always on the watch of someone else going after what i want.

i can be in the gym and if i am on the treadmill next to someone running at 5.0 mph i will bump mine up to 5.2 mph just because i dont want her to out run me. i dont even know that woman.

grocery shopping is a sport all its own. there is literally an apocalyptic scare every friday and everyone in the city is fighting for the last pint of strawberries at trader joes.

the trains are another issue. it is always crowded and people waiting to get on still seem to think that it is a good idea to crowd rush those getting off. you would think that after years of subway riding these people lunkheads would get it. but no. poor tourists.

and currently i am job hunting..shh..its a secret. but honestly who its always applying to jobs. however i feel like i am always checking job boards like an unwanted pregnancy test. and if i get an interview i stalk my email for a follow-up like as if its my instagram crush.

the point is, im tired of hunting and watching people hunt. the shit just gets old after a while.

BB Cream Throwdown: Maybelline vs. Shea Moisture

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rMPlqJ427bc

Washing and Retwisting Starter Locs

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ByumiLEeDDo

New on NikkivsNaps

Hi everyone!

I know that it has been a long time since I have posted anything on here. However here is whats new on my YouTube channel: NikkivsNaps.

Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g1eTNaROjlo

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XkKEwHv2UFc

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KAaM_oI0apQ

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XodJYFhl_vg

R.I.P. Rick Gagne

My professor and advisor. You will certainly be missed.

New on NikkivsNaps- YouTube

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XC0hSjE28MI

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qjF2uqXyNPw

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ao1NYHnn_t4

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9zjZkN3k9kY

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OUCqg_zlDR4

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lnhUTHx95xo

THE shy EXTROVERT

I'm a shy extrovert.

On April 9, 2014, I was asked to speak at my graduate programs student appreciation dinner. Initially I felt very comfortable but as days got closer my nerves began to get the best of me. This feeling of nervousness to speak in front of a crowd was very unfamiliar to me. I am the oldest of four girls, own a YouTube channel and love conversing with people. Before tonight I honestly can't remember the last time I felt uncomfortable in a room full of people. Then I think about my life as it is now and things that have changed about me as a woman.

In college I was always a talker. Participated in poetry slams, always raised my hand for question and answer sessions and even took part in a hot dog eating contest. My world revolved around making people come together through smiles, love and laughter. If you ask my mom she would tell you that I came out the womb chatting with my doctor. So it's surprising to have the feeling of fear in my chest as I began to speak in front of my peers and guests at this dinner.

As the chair of my department began to announce me and my fellow classmate my heart literally raced in my chest. I mean I felt as though I were having a panic attack. I kept reaching for my glass of wine to calm my nerves but it didn't help. All I could do was stake deep breath and prepare for what could be the most embarrassing moment of my graduate career. As my classmate is speak I take out my note cards to make final adjustments. By the time I know it she is walking back to our table and my name is being called. I feel as though death is upon me and I can't for the life of me figure out why. Upon informing the group that I am extremely nervous and get halfway through my speech my nerves are calmed and I don't even use my prepared notes anymore. I can finally breathe and enjoy the view.

As always I question whether or not you guys get the point of what I am trying to say.

Not that it matters. I'm just opening my brain.

***excuse any typos***

I HATE THE CONCEPT OF BEING LATE~NappyNikki Vlogs

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_xwX4pDLFOc

Protective Styling: Box Braids

Hi everyone!

It's been a while since I posted a video but here it is! I did some box braids last weekend just to give myself a break for a while.

I will be posting a video soon with quick easy box braids styles.

Hope you!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z8e3ku5iwW4

NATURAL HAIR Braiding for Wigs~NappyNikki Vlogs

!!!READ ME FOR MORE INFO!!

Hi ladies! This is my quick and simple way to braid your hair for a unit.

The night before I co washed my hair with Tresemme Moisturizing Conditioner and then covered my hair in coconut oil. I covered my hair with two plastic caps and let the oil sit overnight.

The rest of the steps are shown in this video!

Hope you enjoy!

Music by: "Digya" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

Twitter: @nappynikkivlogs
Instagram: @nappynikki

everyday thoughts of a woman. single.natural.quirky.awkward.daring.free.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XrEKsD98-dE

TMI Tag~NappyNikki Vlogs

http://youtu.be/nBMxnre4s0Y

This was so much fun to do! I hope everyone enjoys!

I tag everyone! Be sure to tag me in the response so I can watch your video!

everyday thoughts of a woman. single.natural.quirky.awkward.daring.free.

Women Know Your Worth

So this has been on my mind for a while now so I decided to speak on it.

Enjoy!

Read:nappynikki.com
Instagram: @nappynikki
Twitter:@nappynikkivlogs

everyday thoughts of a woman. single.natural.quirky.awkward.daring.free.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5X25GjsDiY0

How Are You Uncomfortable??

I was in class last week and we were looking at a couple of magazines in the digital formats. I was paired up with a chick from East Harlem, who worked for Elle Magazine and was quite the character. This is our first class together so we don’t know much about each other. Throughout all my classes I have been very verbal about my interest in black media and all that it entails, so many people aren’t surprised when the first magazine that I would choose to read is one of the black media world. So, as we are looking at magazines I move my finger on the screen to click on Essence Magazine, not my favorite but it will do, and the chick that I am paired up with quickly turned up her nose. I was initially caught off guard by this expression but really didn’t care about it. That was until she opened her mouth and said these words, “I always feel uncomfortable reading black magazines. They only focus on one demographic and I just cannot relate to them.” Now mind you I don’t know this chick and she doesn’t know me so to divulge this information in such a vomitus way was totally off putting. If anyone knows me they will tell you that I am quite the curious kid and will question anything I don’t understand or agree with. Not to say that what I am questioning is wrong but I have always believed in strong opinions being justified. I asked her why she felt that way, I mean she is black herself and lives in Harlem! I couldn’t understand how a black woman from New York City could not relate to a black magazine. Of course she didn’t have a reason why, well not good enough for me, she just giggled herself out of it and tried to change the subject. I proceed to say that if you understood the history behind black media you would understand a little bit more. Your ancestors and mine had to fight to have their voice heard and to tell their stories. The mainstream media that you enjoy so much tells nothing about your culture and probably never will. Before I became too bothered by her and her stupid remarks I just got quiet. Which never happens! (Hey, Im trying to turn over a new leaf.) Afterwards I was no longer interested in anything she had to say. Which Im sure she could tell from my body language. I guess my issue with this is that her choice of words to express how she felt about the black media magazines was very poor. Not agreeing with some of the content and editorial design is one thing. But to completely say that you don’t feel comfortable or relate with some that is discussing issues and concerns of the very same people who you are of the same race with will never ever be clear to me. 

Forever 21 BOTTOMS Haul- NappyNikki Vlogs

http://youtu.be/5A9SPcSV55o

Bought some clothing for my lower body! Enjoy!

"Dub Eastern" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

everyday thoughts of a woman. single.natural.quirky.awkward.daring.free.

The Mane Choice Healthy Hair Challenge~NappyNikki Vlogs

http://youtu.be/4VOT1ove5Ww

Have you started a healthy hair journey?? I did! Check out my video here!

Sex on the First Date? To Give It Up or Not

Do You Lose Respect for a woman who sleeps with a guy on the first date?

This topic has always been known to cause a huge debate. No matter if you're a southern belle or a city chick a woman will always be judged by how quickly she has sex with a guy. Back in the 50's (why do people always reference the fifties when discussing something dated) women weren't as sexual as they are now. Well at least not openly. It was all about being ladylike and preparing for your life as a wife and mother. But now as far back as I can remember, maybe middle school at least, women are displayed and used as a sexual object by both men and women. In any form or fashion too. Music videos, photos, books and even video games. Women are seen as sexual objects openly available for amusement. However, the moment a woman makes the decision for herself to be sexually open she is seen as some type of whore or whatever slang term of your choice. Men can be open about having sex with as many women as they please. That same freedom for women comes with a price. They have to deal with ridicule and embarrassment from men and other women. What people fail to realize it that a woman knows within minutes whether or jot she wants to be physical with the person. Something they also don't realize is that she can change her mind just as quickly. See men don't really care about what comes out of a woman's mouth, as long as the physical features are good they will doing anything it takes to get the cookie (that's my word for vagina). Women (majority of them) need more substance before they just get naked with someone. But if she just so happens to be feeling that guy on date one and is wanting something more physical from him then she is suddenly the bad girl.

In my honest opinion (not like all of the above wasn't) women have every right to hook up with a guy on the first date. As long as she is protecting herself and making the level-headed decision for herself then it's all good. I mean I knew from the moment I saw my boyfriend that I was physically attracted to him and even had fantasies about him. That's all apart of being a woman. Hell it's just human!

MY SIMPLE MAKEUP TUTORIAL~NappyNikki Vlogs

http://youtu.be/z0WRALT3czw

Hi everyone! Here is my very first makeup tutorial. I am very excited and nervous at the same time about sharing this. I am in NO way a makeup expert, I do what I know how to do. This is all an experience for me. I am so excited to learn more about makeup and all that it entails.

Feel free to share your comments and questions below!

Thanks for watching!

Music: "Beachfront Celebration" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

everyday thoughts of a woman. single.natural.quirky.awkward.daring.free.

Being Balanced

Living in America, well living in NYC, it can become really easy to get unbalanced in life. With the stress of a busy job, families and social life our lives often begin to crumble right before our very eyes. Without realizing it we will soon be buried under this rock we call life.

At the beginning of this year I wanted to make not a resolution, but a solution for the year. A solution to keep from under that rock. I have made a declaration to make my life more balanced. That means professionally, physically, sexually, socially, mentally and most importantly spiritually. I realize that the main reason that many things that I wanted to accomplish last year didn't get done was because I wasn't focused. My mind was racing a thousand miles a minute and I had ninety different things on my plate at once. I didn't allow myself time to focus on me and the things that are most important. So, to get started on my more balanced life I did the following things:

1. Pray about my situation. I always try to consult with God on everything that I do. No matter how big or small the situation may be.


2. Make a list of everything and prioritize them. Putting things down on paper for me has always been the best method. Seeing it always makes it real.


3. Lastly, I take a big breathe and let it all out. The best thing about becoming a balanced person is becoming stress free. There is no way that you can focus on balancing your life when stress is a part of it.

All in all this process will totally rely on the person. Whatever works for you do it. There is no need to add unnecessary stress to your life. I have to tell you working on balancing my life has been the most rewarding things thus far. I definitely look forward to the future.

Let me know how you balance your life. Share your comments below.

 

xoxo

Nikki

Wet N Wild Lipstick Haul

http://youtu.be/rxeFNO3CXWM

Check out my favorite drugstore brand, Wet N Wild, lipstick haul!

This Week on NikkivsNaps

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O-zQOKiHfsc

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LssH5Q6TVPg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1vN0CEz-YGM

New on NappyNikki Vlogs

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F9EulOUtbBw

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ekeYhW7ORYA

My Simple Nighttime Skin Routine- NappyNikkiVlogs

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vtU4dFwa4Jg

I Have Annoying Neighbors

http://youtu.be/opxCDTGZ6mQ

New Year New Hair Resolutions

http://youtu.be/Vzh8E5uWo1c

Ten Trifling Facts About Me- TAG

http://youtu.be/zucAIwVB3_E

Sweater Weather: TAG

I'm really late in doing this tag, but it's still cold in NY so the questions still apply! Enjoy!

What is your favorite candle scent?At the current moment my favorite scented candle is anything that smells like baked goods. I come from a family where there is always something baking in the oven. So there is nothing more exciting than walking in a house that smells like pecan pie!

Coffee, Tea, or Hot Chocolate? Living in NY coffee is everywhere so I try not to get sucked into that whole 5 cups of coffee a day, so I choose tea. I am a huge green tea drinker so that is usually my go to however I have been drinking a lot of ginger tea lately. A nice spicy yet sweet treat!

Do you switch up your makeup routine for the season? I don't wear makeup everyday, my normal must haves are eyeliner and mascara. However, I have been wearing Maybelline's BB Cream for the past 2 months and I love it!

What is your favorite Thanksgiving food? Although the holiday season is over and I haven't eaten a traditional Thanksgiving meal in 3 years (due to Celiacs Disease) I don't really have one. But my all time favorite post CD was my grandmothers Oyster Dressing aka Stuffing.

Hats or Scarves? Both! If you live where I live you will want and need both!

What is your most worn sweater? I don't have a most worn sweater but I don't have a most worn sweatshirt. While I am at home I love to lounge around in comfy clothes and big socks. While in AmeriCorps I acquired this vintage crew sweatshirt, so I cut out the neck so that it can hang over my shoulders and it has been my favorite ever since!

Must Have Fall Nail Polish? Mostly dark colors like, navy blue and plum.

Football games or jumping in a pile of leaves? Definitely football games!

Skinny jeans or leggings? Jeggings! I just bought my first pair by accident and they are amazing!

Boots or Uggs? Both!

What is your #1 favorite thing about Fall? The weather itself. Nice cool breeze with a lot of sun. It's my favorite season.

Do you have a song that gets you in the Fall mood or just a song you're loving at the moment? Not really a song for the season but the album I'm digging right now is Beyonce'.

What is the Fall weather like where you currently live?
Well I live in Brooklyn, NY and it's winter right now so it's absolutely cold. However, a few days last we had some 60 degree days and today we have a snow storm so it's a little undecided right now.